mini poodle puppy price

Above: Mini F1b, Curly. Above: Mini F1, Wavy. Coats can vary in color. A good way to predict adult color is to look at the ears of the puppy. In addition, consider the pedigree when expecting a litter. It is hard to understand the complexity of the gene pool when mating. From my experience, red is considered a dilute gene of black. When red is bred with white, black or brown, black is dominate and pups are black. Two red parents, will make red or apricot. However, to carry the true red gene is very rare. Red can often fade with maturity. Many breeders boast about having red as it is highly sought after, but it can and may fade with time. I make a good effort at trying to produce red, but it is more rare. Brown and black also produce black. Two browns will make brown. Red can be so dark red that it is considered mahogany or rust. My Sangria, F1 mini-goldendoodle female is an example of this beautiful color. I do not claim to be an expert in the study, nor do I make any guarantees on future adult color. In breeds like the cocker spaniel, the red will be apricot as a pup, but can become dark red with maturity. Spots can also widen with maturity or appear to have moved around as they broadened out. In designer breeds, the puppy can look completely different as an adult then how it did as a puppy. You may notice this at the very first haircut. As much as we love color, we need to pay more attention to the temperament of the puppy and make sure the puppy is very socialized and loved, especially during the critical stage of development up to 5 months. See my temperament testing page for more information on this. Loose and wavy: This is the most common type of coat found in a goldendoodle such as an F1. They are considered low to non-shed. They are easy to maintain. You may want to brush in the common friction areas such as behind the ears, hind quarters, and underarms. Bodily brushing about once a week. Straight: These coats are considered flat or sporty like the golden retriever. They are the easiest to maintain and need minimal brushing. They will have some shed. Curly: These coats can be easily identified with the crimping on the forehead as a pup. They are most common in F1bs. Their coats can have "loose curl" or "tight curl. Examples: Above: "Loose and wavy" as a puppy at 5 weeks old. This is an example of an F1. Left: "Curly" as a puppy. Puppy at 5 weeks old. F1b, crimping on forhead visible. Right: "Straight" at 5 months. This coat type typically can be found in F1 litters. No crimping on forehead or ears. Left: tight curl as an adult. Right: "Curly" at 10 weeks old. More squiggles on forehead than "loose and wavy" type. Notice the difference. This is an example of an F1b. This coat type is best for those that have allergies and desire lots of curl. An excellent example of a loose and wavy coat. This dog is an F1 miniature goldendoodle from Ginger and Tamale. Some of Ginger's puppies do throw the sport coat. It can be difficult to predict how the coats will turn out as adults, but we do our best to look for wavy features in the early stages. In the end, unless you have allergies, please understand they are so much more than just how they look. You get what you get and don't throw a fit! I do my best to help you pick out what you desire, but please note, I do not guarantee coat quality. Puppies are not an item I can stock on the shelf. Mother nature is in control. Many F1s will develop their wave after they go through their coat change at 5 months of age. It can take even up to 8 months to see the true coat quality. Contact Goldendoodle Coat Type Information There are a total of 3 specific coat types a goldendoodle can be born with: A curly coat, a wavy coat, or a flat coat, also know as an improper coat. All of our parent dogs are tested to ensure they do not have the gene present that produces a flat coated goldendoodle, in addition to this we also test to ensure your new goldendoodle will have the proper facial furnishings and a low to no-shedding coat. This is a guide to help you choose the coat that will best suit your preferences and lifestyle. Curly Coat Type The most requested Goldendoodle coat type we get is for a curly coat. It is Goldendoodles with this coat type will present with a wavy coat as young puppies, but as they grow into an adult their coat will become much thicker and curlier. The curly coated goldendoodles have extremely minimal shedding to absolutely no shedding and are hypoallergenic. However the tradeoff to the amazing curly coat is that it requires significantly more brushing and grooming depending on how tight your goldendoodles curls are, although it can be shaved down to create a maintenance free coat. Below are examples of some our previous puppies with a curly coat. Goldendoodle Coat: Senior Years History of the Goldendoodle The Goldendoodle is a relatively new hybrid breed of dog, developed in the late s. As its name suggests, it is a cross between two iconic breeds: Golden Retrievers and Poodles. The goal was to create an intelligent, low-shedding family pet that was easy to train and take care of. This unique combination has led to the Goldendoodle becoming one of the most popular designer dogs on the market today! The origins of this beloved breed can be traced back to Australia in when Wally Conron crossed a Standard Poodle with a Golden Retriever for Guide Dogs Victoria — an organization that provides guide dogs for people with vision impairments. His idea was to create a hypoallergenic service animal that would be easier for people with allergies or asthma to own than traditional breeds like Labradors or German Shepherds. The popularity of Goldendoodles began slowly but steadily grew over time as more and more families discovered how wonderful they were as pets. Owners appreciated their intelligence, playfulness, and loving nature, which were all qualities inherited from their parent breeds. But one of the biggest attractions to Goldendoodles was that they shed very little compared to other breeds — a major plus for households where allergies or asthma are an issue. What are the Generations of Goldendoodles? One of the primary factors in Goldendoodle coat changes is their generation. The most common generations include F1 first-generation , F2 second-generation , F3 third-generation , and F4 fourth-generation. F2 Generation The coat of a second-generation Goldendoodle is even more varied; they can inherit coats that are either straight and silky like their Golden Retriever parent, or curly and wavy like their Poodle parent. The variation among these generations is quite large due to the fact that each one can contain different proportions of parent breed genetics. Goldendoodle Puppy Coat Transition When a litter of Goldendoodle puppies is born, their coats are typically soft, fluffy and downy. The coat of a young Goldendoodle puppy will generally be less wavy than it will become as they age and more closely resemble the fur of their Poodle parent. Their fur is usually made up of several waves or curls which can range from tight to loose. As they get older though, their coats may start to change texture and length, with some puppies develop curlier or wavier coats than others. Some Goldendoodles may retain their puppy coat all the way into adulthood while others may experience a more dramatic shift in coat type as they mature. Goldendoodle puppies need regular brushing and grooming to keep their coat healthy and free from tangles or matting. Additionally, you should bathe your Goldendoodle puppy about once every weeks or as needed with a gentle shampoo specifically designed for dogs in order to keep their skin and fur clean and hydrated. As Goldendoodle puppies grow into adulthood, the texture of their coat can change dramatically. Fur that was once soft and wavy can become more thick and curly over time; this is especially true for F1B generations which tend to have more curl than other types of Goldendoodles due to higher Poodle genetics. In addition, adult Goldendoodles may require different grooming needs as well; depending on the type of coat they have, some may need professional clipping or trimming every few months in order to maintain an even look throughout the body. The coat type at this stage may vary depending on the generation, with F1s usually having a slightly longer and wavier coat while F1Bs are more likely to have a tighter curl. At 3 months, most Goldendoodles will experience some shedding; however, they should not shed as much as a Golden Retriever. A groomer can also provide advice about the best products and tools to use in order to keep your pup looking their best! Additionally, you should bathe your Goldendoodle puppy with a gentle shampoo every weeks in order to keep their skin and fur clean and hydrated. Overall, Goldendoodle coats can range from straight and silky to wavy or curly depending on the generation of the pup; but at the 6-month mark, all puppies will begin the transition into adulthood regardless of coat type. Additionally, make sure that you are brushing your pup regularly and providing them with regular baths to help keep their skin and fur healthy throughout this transitional period. Depending on the generation of your pup and the ratio of Golden Retriever to Poodle genetics, coats can range from straight and silky to wavy or curly. Additionally, you should give them a bath every weeks or as needed with a gentle shampoo specifically formulated for dogs in order to keep their skin and fur healthy. Finally, many owners opt for regular grooming services from professional groomers in order to maintain an even look throughout the body. With proper care and maintenance, your Goldendoodle can keep their beautiful coat looking its best! While Goldendoodles are generally active through their senior years, a tell-tale sign of their age is their fur. As your dog ages, you may notice more white fur around its snout and eyebrows. This is completely normal and a sign that your pup is entering the senior years of its life. Additionally, you should give your Goldendoodle regular baths with a gentle shampoo specifically formulated for dogs in order to keep their skin and fur healthy. Finally, many owners opt for professional grooming services every few months in order to keep an even look throughout the body as well as trim any mats that may develop. The type and texture of the fur can vary depending on what generation your pup is, but all types need regular brushing and baths in order to stay healthy and beautiful. As they age, their fur may become more prone to matting or tangling; however, with proper care, you can help them maintain their lovely coats for years to come!

Photo from thepuppyacademy The Doodle craze has resulted in many interesting crosses, from Cavoodles, Maltipoos , and Sheepadoodles to Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles. There are over forty Poodle mixes out there and they all seem to have fun names. Although these names are fun to pronounce, they can also be a bit confusing. The main difference between these three dogs is their genetic make-up. The Goldendoodle is a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever while the Australian Labradoodle is a mix of a Poodle, a Labrador, and a few other dog breeds. When you cross these two pups, you get an Australian Goldendoodle. They all come in different sizes and coat colors. However, Australian Labradoodles tend to conform to a standard set by the Australian Labradoodle Association while the other two crosses are more unpredictable. Australian Goldendoodles and Labradoodles are more likely to inherit the low-shedding coat characteristics since they are multigenerational Doodles. The price range of all three breeds is similar, but Australian Goldendoodles can cost more on average. The F1 Doodles are the first generation pups that came into existence by crossing two different breeds. The F2 or the second generation dogs came from breeding two F1 Doodles, and the F3 mixes are multigenerational. This ensures that the hybrid vigor of the first-generation Goldendoodles and Australian Labradoodles is carried onto their offspring. Backcrossing Australian Goldendoodles is a bit more complicated than with other Poodle mixes since they have the genes of more than two dog breeds. Those crossed with a Golden Retriever or a Labrador Retriever are considered to be different hybrid dogs. Physical Characteristics Of Australian Goldendoodles Australian Goldendoodles come in different sizes, depending on the Poodle genes of their parent breeds. Their height ranges from 17 to 24 inches while their weight can be between 15 and 80 pounds. The reason for this wide range of sizes is the fact that there are Toy, Miniature, and Standard Poodles. Their coats can be curly and wool-textured like Poodles. Pups with this coat type are more allergy-friendly since they shed less. They can also have wavy or straight fleece-textured coats. The hair length depends on their genetic make-up. Goldendoodles tend to have slightly longer hair compared to Australian Labradoodles. Australian Goldendoodles come in a variety of colors, from white, cream, and gold, to apricot, red, or black. Some are of solid color while others have different markings, such as parti, abstract, or phantom. Facial hair is in style, and Australian Goldendoodles are following the trend. Their adorable mustache, known as furnishings, gives them a distinct teddy bear look. The furnishings, alongside their shaggy-looking coats and floppy ears, make these pooches irresistible. They are small- to medium-sized dogs, weighing between 20 and 30 pounds, with a height of 16 to 19 inches. Poodles come in three different sizes; Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The small stature of Mini Doodles comes from the genes of their Miniature Poodle ancestors. The main difference between Mini and other Australian Goldenpoos is their size. They are the same as their larger cousins when it comes to other physical and personality traits. However, they need less exercise since the Miniature Poodle was primarily bred for companionship rather than for hunting like the Standard type. About 30 minutes of exercising a day should be enough to tire out these tiny pups. Do Australian Goldendoodles Shed? Australian Goldendoodles tend to be low-shedders. With the increase of pet allergies in recent times, the demand for pups with low-shedding tendencies is on the rise. Australian Goldenpoos with straight or wavy fleece-textured hair typically shed more than their curly-coated counterparts. However, the shedding can still be managed by proper grooming. Apart from genetics, other factors impact the amount of shedding in dogs as well. If your pup is shedding excessively, it may be due to stress, nutrition, health, or too much bathing. Grooming Requirements The Australian Goldendoodle is a high-maintenance crossbreed. The curly coats that make them shed minimally can easily get tangled or matted, which is why they require regular grooming. The grooming includes brushing and trimming their hair, bathing, teeth brushing, cleaning their ears , and trimming their nails. Their continuously growing hair also needs to be trimmed regularly. Most owners take their pups to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks. Be sure to use a gentle dog shampoo since some bathing products can cause excessive shedding. You can inspect their ears weekly and use a soft cotton ball to gently clean them. Their teeth also need to be brushed once a week to prevent tartar build-up and gum disease. Their nails should be clipped once a month unless they naturally wear down. The Australian Goldendoodle is an affectionate, loving dog that loves to spend time with its owner. They are great family pets as they get along with other animals and children. Australian Goldendoodles can easily be trained for a variety of tasks due to their high intelligence. In fact, their Labradoodle parents were first created to be guide dogs for people with pet allergies. Many of these sweet-natured pups also work as therapy dogs, bringing happiness and comfort to people in hospitals and retirement homes. Australian Goldenpoos are very energetic and playful as well. Exercise Needs Australian Goldendoodles are active dogs. Making sure that your dog gets enough exercise and mental stimulation can prevent weight problems and behavioral issues. It also reduces the possibility of injuries as it strengthens their muscles. Puppies learn about the world through play, but it also helps build your relationship. As your puppy grows up , you can start taking it out for long walks or let it join you for a run. Australian Goldenpoos love being outside, so going for a hike once in a while is a great way to spend some quality time with your pooch. They also do great with different dog sports, such as dog agility or flyball. These sports would be fun hobbies to share with your pup. Positive reinforcement is always the best training method regardless of the breed. Your puppies will happily learn any new trick when you give them enough treats, praise, or tummy rubs. House training means letting the dog know what your house rules are. Puppies love to chew, so surrounding them with toys could help save your shoes. Another essential part of dog ownership is socialization. Although Australian Goldendoodles are friendly by nature, they still need to be socialized. What you need to do is bring your pup around with you to meet different people, dogs, and other animals. Smaller dogs generally have a longer life expectancy. They typically live between 12 and 16 years. These mixed-breed pooches are generally healthy dogs, but there are some health problems they can inherit from their parents. We pride ourselves on the way we raise our Puppies. We treat the Labradoodle puppies with care and give them lots of love so that they will be fun and social pets. Our goal is to make it easy to transition them from our loving home to yours. Thanks for visiting Southern Doodles. We currently have available spots on our puppy list!! Goldendoodles Goldendoodles are known for their gentle, social and affectionate nature which makes them wonderful family and therapy dogs. We have several of our breeding dogs with therapist guardians, we also have a veterinarian with one of our guardian dogs. We strive for social happy dogs! Here at Southerndoodlin we start their training right after they are born with sensory training. We also have various noises so your puppy will not be afraid of normal home sounds. We also have a gun range nearby, trains and farm equipment sounds and airplanes too. Australian labradoodles have been created for their temperament, coat and conformation. This has been shown over and over again by so many who use the Australian Labradoodle for therapy dogs. They just have a special ability to know their owners emotonal needs. They are intuitive, smart, athletic, easy to train love bugs! Australian labradoodles have been very carefully genetic tested to give you the best. At Southern Doodlin' we are deciding to slow down our business after many years of providing loving puppies for homes acress the country. This is a pretty typical range for doodle mixes. In addition to the initial cost of the dog, there are the setup fees food, bedding, harnesses, etc. Based on what breeders and owners have to say about these dogs, Australian Goldendoodles have excellent temperaments. They have been described as playful, loving, gentle, intelligent, and eager to please. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Your breeder or adoption organization should be able to advise you on whether they think an individual dog would be a good match for a home with kids. According to Australian Goldendoodle breeders, these dogs are great around other pets. It can be difficult for resident cats and dogs to accept a new family member at first, so go slowly to make the transition as stress-free as possible for everyone. Again, speak to your breeder or adoption organization about whether specific matches would be a good idea. There are a multitude of complete and balanced options for dogs, some suitable for all sizes and some formulated specifically for small, medium, large, and giant breeds. There are also options that target certain areas of health, like, for example, weight management, joint function, and urinary health. Fun physical activities for the easy-to-please Australian Goldendoodle include a few daily walks, fetch, chase, agility training, and games like frisbee, tug-of-war, and fetch. Some may also enjoy swimming, but not every dog does. Australian Goldendoodles are, by and large, considered to be highly trainable and eager to please, so they should respond well to short training sessions daily with a consistent leader who provides positive reinforcement praise, treats, etc. Patience, consistency, and kindness are especially important for adult rescue dogs. A post shared by Simin pet. On the other hand, if the Poodle genes are stronger, a curly or wavy coat is more likely. If your Australian Goldendoodle has a coat similar to a Golden Retriever, the rate of shedding may be higher than that of a wavy or curly-coated Australian Goldendoodle. It really depends on the genetics. Poodle-type coats are especially prone to these problems, especially around the neck and tail base, so be sure to focus on these areas. Regular nail trimming is another essential part of grooming, as too-long nails can quickly become sore. If you do this yourself at home, avoid the quick, which is the pinkish part of the nail. Cutting into this will be very painful, so keep the clippers only on the ends. According to PetMD, the following conditions are ones to watch out for in Goldendoodles. Note that the PetMD post is about Goldendoodles, not Australian Goldendoodles specifically, but Australian Goldendoodles might be susceptible to some of the same conditions since they share Goldendoodle parentage. Minor Conditions Mild allergy symptoms that receive treatment Minor, occasional stomach upset. Photo from kuechly. However, we can still look at the disposition of the parents that were used to create them since they will most probably influence how the Australian Goldendoodle behaves. Puppies with a more dominant Australian Labradoodle genetic makeup manifest the following: They are very loyal to their owners. They are happy-go-lucky dogs. They are curious and active when it comes to a number of activities. They get along well with small children and other animals when they are socialized early. They are sometimes tricky and clever. They show so much affection to their family, which means that they can even be therapy dogs. If your Australian Goldendoodle has a dominant English Goldendoodle gene, they will most probably exhibit the following traits: They are perfect for novice pet owners since they are very adaptable. They are easygoing and they are easy to train. They love pleasing their owner as well as other people. They do not like being alone for a long time because they become destructive. They are affectionate to practically everyone. Again, all these traits are seen on Australian Goldendoodles only when they are given proper training or socialization. Ensure that right after bringing them home, you start a suitable training program for them to thrive inside your household. But who knows, maybe your puppy can outlive even the oldest dog alive! Make sure that they are properly taken care of by providing their basic and most essential needs. Also, bring them to a trusted veterinarian if you notice something different about them. This may be a sign of certain diseases and should be prevented immediately so they can live a longer life. Here are the common health issues of Australian Goldendoodles that you should watch out for: Hip Dysplasia: This developmental disease is found in most dogs, not only in Australian Goldendoodles. Cataracts: You can identify that your dog has cataracts when their eyes become opaque, leading to blocked vision and eventually complete blindness. Patellar Luxation: There are instances where the patella of a dog dislocates and causes difficulty in extending the knee joint. This can lead to lameness if not treated early. Some of the signs of this disease are vomiting, diarrhea, weight loss, increased urination, and shaking episodes. The area under the aortic valve narrows, affecting the blood flow and leads to breathing difficulty, fainting, or in extreme cases, death. Photo from miss. To take care of them, consider my tips and advice below. But remember that the nutritional need of each dog varies depending on its size. You should have them weighed by a veterinarian and ask for advice regarding what they are allowed to eat. Generally, Australian Goldendoodles can be fed commercial dog food and homemade food. Since they are hybrids, you should choose nutritious food and feed them three to four times a day. Again, this will still depend on what the vet will advise. In terms of homemade diet plans, there are many recipes you can watch and copy on youtube that will provide the energy requirements of your dog. Training and Exercise It might surprise you that Australian Goldendoodles are intelligent hybrids. They can easily pick up simple tricks because they are extreme people pleasers. In terms of their exercise needs, they love highly stimulating environments since they are energetic and active. Besides, they can also play some water games thanks to their Poodle gene. They can live in both rural and urban areas as long as there is enough space for them to run and play. Cleaning and Grooming Many pet owners these days are able to clean and groom their own pets. They rarely bring their Australian Goldendoodles to a professional groomer because they have studied and succeeded in doing everything that needs to be done in just a home setup. I highly applaud these types of owners, but I still would suggest bringing your dog to the vet a couple of times a year since there are some little details about pet grooming that you may have missed. Generally, Australian Goldendoodles need brushing several times a week using a slicker brush to prevent mats and tangles. They would also need to be trimmed every eight weeks for them to look more presentable. The fur around their eyes, ears, and footpads should be the priority because these areas help them to function well. Aside from these, their ears should be monitored for possible infections especially if they love to swim. Teeth cleaning is also necessary to avoid any dental-related diseases. How Much Is an Australian Goldendoodle? Aside from these initial expenses, there are some items that you need to buy in order to take care of your Australian Goldendoodle. They are presented in the table below along with their individual cost. Type of Expense. Our sister site Dogsnet has also has expert-led courses for new puppy parents right through to adult dogs. Exercise Australian Goldendoodles are active dogs who need at least two hours of exercise every single day when they are fully grown. This could include hiking, joining you for a run, swimming and water retrieves, or dog sports such as agility training or dock diving. Mini Australian Goldendoodles need to spend the same amount of time being physically active. But they may struggle to keep up with pursuits like running or cycling. A large, secure yard is helpful for giving this breed room to play and let off steam. Australian Goldendoodle Health and Care The health problems most likely to affect Australian Goldendoodles are: Ear infections Allergies, eczema, and autoimmune skin conditions Joint problems including hip and elbow dysplasia The neurological condition degenerative myelopathy Thyroid disease To protect each new generation of puppies, breeding dogs should be as healthy as possible. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals recommends testing potential breeding Australian Labradoodles for: Hip dysplasia Eye diseases including Progressive Retinal Atrophy Exercise Induced Collapse Goldendoodles ought to be tested for: Hip dysplasia Eye diseases Heart disease Good breeders will be able to provide copies of the results of all these tests. Shedding coats need regular brushing to remove dirt, debris and dead hair. Twice a year it will shed more heavily than usual and change texture to adjust to the seasons. At these times, you might like to use a deshedding tool to speed the process up. Non shedding coats also need frequent brushing, plus regular trips to the groomer for clipping. Australian Goldendoodles are prone to ear infections because their ears trap warmth and moisture. This creates ideal breeding conditions for bacteria and fungi. So keeping their ears clean and dry should also form a regular part of your routine. Are Australian Goldendoodles Good Pets? Australian Goldendoodles can be great pets for the right people. They do best in active households, with people who enjoy spending plenty of time outdoors. Their behavior is also likely to be more settled if someone or a mix of people can keep them company most of the time. Due to their size and playfulness, standard Australian Goldendoodles are difficult to keep in an apartment. But a Mini Australian Goldendoodle might adapt, provided you take them out for plenty of regular exercise. Most of the dogs which contribute to the Australian Goldendoodle are described as being good with children and other pets. However, they need lots of attention in their own right, so raising one from a puppy at the same time as a young family can be extremely challenging! Australian Goldendoodle puppies are well suited to households with older children and teenagers. Especially ones who are willing to help with playtime and providing all the mental and physical stimulation this mix needs. Younger children should always be supervised with any kind of dog. A standard sized Australian Goldendoodles are particularly likely to accidentally knock over a small child or elderly person in a moment of over-enthusiasm. Finding a Australian Goldendoodle Puppy Now that you know them better, is your heart set on an Australian Goldendoodle puppy for sale? Our Puppy Search guide will help you navigate that process and find your perfect pal. Designer dogs, included complex hybrids like this one are currently enjoying a lot of interest, so new litters are regularly advertised for sale. Unfortunately, their popularity has also caught the eye of puppy farmers, who try to sell poor quality puppies at top drawer prices. Sadly, puppies from puppy farms are more likely to have expensive lifetime health problems. They are also more likely to have behavioral problems including aggressiveness and separation anxiety. This article can help you spot the bad breeders, and avoid heartache. Are you considering an Australian Goldendoodle as your next pet? Goldendoodles are an elaborate mix of traditional hunting breeds. With a bit of luck, they represent the best aspects of all of them, complete with a non-shedding coat. But, all mixed breed dogs have the potential to inherit only the least fortunate aspects of their parent breeds too! Do you already have an Australian Goldendoodle, or are you considering getting one? Tell us more in the comments box down below! Discovering the mini Goldendoodle, including their size, exercise requirements and mini Goldendoodle lifespan, here. Meeting the German Shepherd Goldendoodle mix in this fascinating breed review. References And Resources. Contact Ericas doodles is committed to helping our families bring a new family member into their lives. We have decided because families are struggling to stretch their dollars but still want to bring joy into their families we are reducing our prices effectively immediately. We have been professionally breeding Doodles over 20 years. We know this doodle breed inside and out. We are also state-licensed we are not a backyard breeder we stand behind our dogs. We are 45 minutes southwest of downtown Chicago. We are a family of 6 that loves the doodle breeds. My husband, myself and my 4 children are all involved in the daily care of our beautiful dogs. We have researched and selected the best quality dogs for our breeding program. Our dogs get lots of free time with our children to run free on our ten beautiful acres. Our puppies are raised in our home underfoot and get handled from the day they are born. We truly believe that our children are very instrumental in helping with the daily socializing of our babies. Socialization is the key for puppies developing into the lifelong companions that families can be proud to own. Our goal is to breed the most beautiful and healthy puppies that will bring happiness and joy in any family. What Is an Australian Goldendoodle? Mac, a lovely Australian Goldendoodle from Montreal image: thisdoodmac. Ultimately, the Australian Goldendoodle is a designer dog. Designer dogs are a result of breeders choosing purebred parents with desirable traits. The Australian Goldendoodle is technically a Doodle dog breed since it is a Poodle mix. However, Aussiedoodles are a mix between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. They are not to be confused with a standard Labradoodle. There are quite a few differences worth pointing out. Although Poodles have been mixed with other breeds for decades, if not centuries, the Labradoodle is credited as the first official Doodle breed. In , Wally Conron, a dog breeder who worked for the Victoria Royal Guide Dog Association of Australia, created the first Labradoodle to provide a hypoallergenic service dog. This cross-breed came from a letter he received from a man in Hawaii who needed a guide dog but was sensitive to dog allergens. The success of this Labradoodle guide dog caught the interest of many. Standard Labradoodles have grown in popularity ever since. The Australian Labradoodle is a direct descendant of the standard Labradoodle. The intent behind this selective breeding was to create more consistent litters in regards to coat type, traits, size, and temperament [1] alaa-labradoodles. Due to the advocacy of breed clubs like the Australian Labradoodle Association of America, Australian Labradoodles now have entirely predictable traits, with the breed standard established in .The Australian Labradoodle is still considered a mixed-breed dog, but breeders hope that they can one day be distinguished as its own breed. The most significant difference between the Australian Labradoodle and the standard Labradoodle is that the Australian Goldendoodle is a mix of several different dog breeds. How popular are Australian Labradoodles? Australian Labradoodles are currently much more popular than Australian Goldendoodles. The mix has yet to receive much attention, but the data shows it is trending upward. The graph below shows the relative search volume of Australian Labradoodles and Australian Goldendoodles worldwide. It is clear that Australian Labradoodles are more popular than Australian Goldendoodles. However, this trend can change in no time! These two hybrid breeds are a result of four different parent breeds. Poodle Poodle Poodles are a breed of water dog that originated in Germany. They were bred to be water-fowl hunters and retrievers. They are intelligent dogs that have high energy levels and are athletic. This is why they eventually became famous as circus dogs in 19th-century France. There are three varieties of Poodle, which differ by size: Toy, Miniature, and Standard. The standard Poodle is the largest, while the Toy Poodle is the smallest. This is the main reason Doodle breeders mix them with other purebred dogs. Poodles do not shed as often as other breeds, and the curly nature of their coat traps dander. However, they require quite a bit of grooming to prevent the matting of their fur. They come in various colors: black, white, gray, fawn, brown, blue, red parti, and a few others. Their temperament was the main reason breeders chose them for Australian Labradoodle breeding. Cocker Spaniels are social and people orientated. In addition, they are not as energetic as the other dog breeds. This makes them calmer and more suitable for families. Cocker Spaniels come in a variety of colors, including mixtures of colors as well. English Cocker Spaniel vs. However, when the breed was brought over to America, it was bred differently to be able to hunt American woodcock. Thus, the breeds differ, given their different physical characteristics and instincts. American Cocker Spaniels are smaller in size. They have a shorter muzzle and back with a dome-shaped head. The English Spaniel is taller and has a narrower head and chest. In their native countries, they are simply called Cocker Spaniels. Similarities between the two include the signature long ears and thick wavy fur. Labrador Retriever Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever is a famous British gun dog breed, one of the most popular choices for families in the western world. In addition to being playful, loyal, and obedient, Labrador Retrievers are the dog of choice for service or guide dogs. Their coats are short and water-proof but tend to shed a lot. Their addition as parent breeds for the Australian Labradoodle is because they were the original service dogs that breeders wanted to adapt for people with allergies. This breed results from a cross between an English Golden Retriever and Poodle. They have a few slight differences from a standard Goldendoodle , most of which are based on coloring and body shape. The size of an English Goldendoodle depends on the Poodle parent and can vary widely. Due to its size, the Mini English Goldendoodle sees more demand across households. The English Goldendoodle usually retains the social characteristics of a Golden Retriever and the intelligence and coat of a Poodle. Due to their light color, they are sometimes called English Cream Golden Retrievers. English Golden Retrievers have a very light cream-colored coat that almost seems white. American Golden Retrievers are never that light in color. Furthermore, English Golden Retrievers tend to be slightly larger than their American counterparts. Both these dogs are brilliant and highly energetic. They require lots of activity and attention. They make great family dogs and are easy to train. Where did the English Golden Retriever come from? Since the English Golden Retriever is not a separate breed, it shares the same history as the standard Golden Retriever. Lord Tweedmouth is credited as the founder of the Golden Retriever breed. At the time, hunting was becoming a very popular sport in both Scotland and England. Golden Retriever This particular mix was bred with the intent to aid hunters in the retrieval of waterfowl and upland hunting. Upland hunting refers to the hunting of upland game, which are non-waterfowl birds such as pheasants, quail, grouse, etc. Their sweet-temperament intelligence makes them a great choice to be used as a service dog, guide dog, or therapy dog. This is because it depends on the sizes of all the breeds that make up an Australian Goldendoodle. A strikingly handsome Australian Goldendood image: thisdoodmac. Goldendoodles generally come in three different sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. You should be able to get specific weight and size from your breeder. If you want to know how big your puppy will get, ask for specifics on the size of the parents. Weight The following table estimates the weight of an adult Australian Goldendoodle based on type. Australian Goldendoodle Size.

Lifespan Sociability This designer dog breed might not be the most common, but it is certainly an adorable mix. The better the lineage of one or both of the parents, the more expensive it will be. Finding a Poo-Ton at a dog shelter might not be an easy task, but you can always ask around and you never know when you might find one, or at least a mixed dog that resembles the Poo-Ton. When you bring a Poo-Ton into your home, be ready to have a friendly an affectionate dog by your side. Early socialization and training are essential for them to get along with other dogs and to remain calm around strangers. Poo-Ton dogs are hypoallergenic. Yet dogs are given these labels if they have a higher tendency not to affect allergies. Regarding mixed dog breeds, if the parents have the genes to be hypoallergenic, then this can impact the puppies. If only one breed does and not the other, the puppies end up with a varying degree of effect on the allergies of people. The Poo-Ton are long-lived pups compared to other small breeds. Poo-Ton dogs not only inherit the desired hypoallergenic traits from their parents, but they also inherit a long life. The Coton de Tulear typically lives years, and Miniature Poodles live for an average of 15 years. This combination can live anywhere from 12 to 16 years and sometimes even beyond. Taking excellent care of the dogs can help extend their lives for as long as possible. Only specific poodles can be used to breed a true Poo-Ton. Not just any Poodle can be used to breed a Poo-Ton. This is partially to maintain its size, as a standard poodle can stand 18 to 24 inches tall, dwarfing the small Poo-Ton. The most noticeable characteristics of these dogs are the affection and love that they shower their people with, along with their energy. They are vigilant dogs and can be trained to function in multiple different capacities, such as a watchdog, albeit their small size. This breed is also called Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, or Cotonpoo because of the fluffy coat. Because of how intelligent this dog is and their desire to please their masters, they easily pick up new tricks and commands. They love to have fun and are quite responsive. Incorporating training games into their sessions helps keep them engaged and satisfies their playful nature. They are not known to be excessive barkers but may bark at strangers if they come close. If your puppy tends to bark more than most, this may be something to work on in training. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are rarely aggressive and love to play. These traits, combined with their small size, make them perfect pets to have around if there are small children in the home. However, it is always a good idea to keep an eye on small children and dogs during playtime, no matter the breed. This breed tends to be sociable and friendly. If the pups are socialized, especially if done early, they will be happy to have other dogs and even cats as new playmates. Give them small puzzles to figure out with treats as rewards, or hold energetic training sessions with games and fun new commands. Activities like these help prevent boredom and keep them active and healthy. The Poo-Ton is a highly intelligent dog, inheriting positive traits from its impressive parents. The most noticeable characteristics of this dog are the affection and love that they shower their people with, along with their energy. They are vigilant dogs and can be trained to function in multiple different capacities, such as a watchdog, albeit their small size. This breed is also called Doodle-Ton, Cotondoodle, or Cotonpoo because of the fluffy coat. Because of how intelligent this dog is and their desire to please their masters, they easily pick up new tricks and commands. They love to have fun and are quite responsive. Incorporating training games into their sessions helps keep them engaged and satisfies their playful nature. They are not known to be excessive barkers but may bark at strangers if they come close. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs are great fits for families. They are rarely aggressive and love to play. These traits, combined with their small size, making them perfect pets to have around if there are small children in the home. This breed tends to be sociable and friendly. When these pups are socialized, especially if done early, they will be happy to have other dogs and even cats as new playmates. Training Due to their sweet personality, they have a deep desire to please their trainers and owners. During training, they pick commands up quickly with a firm consistency and plenty of positive reinforcement. Owning a Poo-Ton is as close as you might get to owning a fluffy angel. This breed is cuddly, loving, and smart. Should a Coton de Tulear Mix take after their Coton parent, they will be a small dog with a lovable, charming, and playful personality. They will love spending time around their favorite humans and being affectionate with them. A Coton de Tulear loves being the center of attention. They will often engage in clownish and comedic antics to get the attention they love so much. They also tend to be friendly and affectionate dogs with just about everyone. This means they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. If they take after their Coton parent, you can expect something similar in a Coton de Tulear Mix. But, the other parent breed will introduce their own set of quirks and traits, so you want to make sure you ask the breeder about them. Although the breeder should have started some socialization and training, it is up to you to continue to train and socialize a puppy once you get them home. This will help your Coton de Tulear Mix puppy grow into a confident, well-rounded, and well-mannered dog. Coton de Tulear tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments, larger homes, and most climates. They do tend to get cold easily, so you will want to bundle up with some winter dog products while out on walks during the winter to keep them warm. Because they bond so closely with their families and love attention, they do not do well with alone time. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect a Coton de Tulear Mix to be highly adaptable as well. You still want to talk to the breeder about the other parent breed in the mix as they will introduce their own traits that could affect adaptability. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? Just as a mix could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could just as easily inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Coton de Tulear side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Coton de Tulear Mix include heart disease, eye conditions, and hypothyroidism. They can also be prone to developing allergies and sensitive skin. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The Coton de Tulear is an intelligent dog that picks up on things quickly and is eager to please. This makes them a highly trainable dog breed that is a good fit for owners of all experience levels. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect a Coton de Tulear Mix to be a highly trainable dog as well. If the other parent breed is more difficult to train, first-time dog owners may want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes in case they need them. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat that is similar to one of their parents or one that is a mix of both of them. Should a Coton de Tulear Mix inherit the Coton coat, they will be low-shedding and require grooming every weeks. If they are kept in a short puppy clip, weekly brushing is sufficient. If their coat is kept longer, they will need daily brushing. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. As a small dog breed, a Coton de Tulear Mix is even more prone to developing dental issues, which makes practicing good dental care for dogs even more important. Daily brushing or use of an enzyme toothpaste in addition to regular cleanings at the vet is ideal. Coton de Tulear tend to sit in a low to moderate activity range and will often match whatever you are doing. Although they may be energetic while playing or being active with you, they are not high-energy dogs and will tire out relatively easily. If the other parent breed is similar, then you can expect a similar activity level in a Coton de Tulear Mix. If the other breed has a different activity level, then you will need to be prepared for that potential range in a Coton de Tulear Mix. A fully-grown Coton de Tulear usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed could have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother, so you want to ask the breeder about them. That can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Coton de Tulear Mix. Coton de Tulear generally live for years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar life span for a Coton de Tulear Mix. Currently, we do not have any Coton de Tulear Mix puppies available, but we can alert you when new Coton de Tulear Mix puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address!

An 8 week old German Shepherd puppy is a bundle of antics and endless energy! Your 8 Week Old German Shepherd Puppy An 8 week old your puppy requires a daily routine and training to help them become the dog of your dreams. This article will not only help you understand your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy but will also explain to you why your little puppy has certain behaviors. Raising a German Shepherd puppy can feel like an overwhelming task at first! Just remember, your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is also adjusting to its new life with you. You should expect your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy to feel stressed and uncertain. They may seem timid and unsure of their surroundings. They might cry, whine, and not want your attention. Having structure and consistency will help create a bond and help you both in getting along more peacefully and calmly. Introducing A Puppy Crate Many dog owners choose to use a crate when it comes to caring for their 8-week-old puppy. While some people consider crates unnecessary, or even cruel, crate training is a useful skill to offer your dog. With the right training your pup will see its crate as their private safe space and will even go there to relax. Leaving your puppy at home unsupervised can get them and you into a heap of trouble. Crate training helps prevent your home from being a destruction zone. This useful guide to crate training a German Shepherd puppy gets you on the right track to success! Crate training your puppy can: help speed up housetraining teach your dog to settle calm down offer your dog privacy But you must introduce the crate slowly and positively so your puppy builds a strong connection to the benefits of the crate. Never just shove or push your young German Shepherd into the crate without using positive training. Your new dog also needs a routine and schedule to help them through the early days with you and set the expectations you have for them. Having a schedule helps your puppy to know what to expect in their daily routines. It keeps you from losing your mind and helps ease a worried puppy. While you might work from home or have other obligations, try to follow a schedule that looks similar to this: Early morning: Take your puppy out for the first potty break of the day! So, they may need to go outside even before the sun rises. Breakfast time: Your puppy may want to go back to sleep after going outside and this is perfectly normal. On the other hand, some puppies are wide awake and ready for their breakfast. Either way, always take your puppy back outside shortly after their breakfast so they can sniff and have another potty break. Mid-morning: Puppies should eat 3 — 4 small meals a day. Mid-morning is a good time for another small meal. Afternoon: This is a good time for their lunch followed by a potty break and plenty of sniffing time to work off some of their energy. Late afternoon: Puppies need another potty break in the afternoon, and some puppies need more breaks outside. Evening: Their dinner meal and their evening potty time. Remember to let them explore outdoors in a safe area to help build their confidence. Scheduling exercise, potty breaks, and play at the same times every day helps ensure that your puppy learns their daily routine more quickly and settles in nicely. And, even young puppies can learn basic training in their first weeks with you. Try training your German Shepherd puppy at home to start with. In the beginning, you may find a few accidents in the house. But, stick with your potty training and remember to always watch your puppy to keep them from having messes in the house. When you stick to a regular potty schedule, the likelihood of potty training mishaps decreases, and you and your puppy are less stressed. Always, always, always… Supervise your puppy indoors when you are potty training. Your toughest time together with your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy might be the first few nights. Your puppy has only known the comfort of his mother and siblings before. Having your puppy sleep away from you will only scare them more. And, although they are little, their cry is loud! Having a place for them near your bed is the best way to avoid a night full of tearful cries and howling. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep in bed with me? Plus, when your puppy is an adult and tries to sleep in bed with you there will be no room for you! A full-grown German Shepherd can weigh up to pounds and will push you right out of your own sheets. Your puppy sleeps most of the day. A new puppy sleeps more often than they are awake. An 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy may sleep as many as 18 hours a day! Sleeping this much allows your puppy to have the energy they need to grow and keeps them ready to explore their new world. Feeding An 8 Week Old German Shepherd Your puppy should stay on the same food they were eating before you brought them home to keep them less stressed. This helps keeps your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy from having an upset stomach and becoming ill. Sometimes, you might want to switch them over to a different food. If you choose this route, do it slowly and in stages over a few weeks. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should eat 3 to 4 small meals per day. Although their stomachs are small if you overfeed them they could get sick and have stomach problems. Spreading their meals out throughout the day in regular intervals is best to avoid any upsets. Look for a balanced, complete puppy food for large breed dogs. As a large breed dog, your German Shepherd you should only feed your puppy food that is specially formulated for large breed puppies. Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs that are not found in ordinary puppy food. Feeding a commercially available food that is formulated for large breed puppies helps them to grow at a sustained rate. Steady growth in a large breed puppy helps to avoid stress on their bones and gives them a strong skeletal foundation for their athletic muscles. Limiting food intake in growing German Shepherd puppies has also been associated with fewer signs of hip dysplasia. This is of extreme importance in this breed due to the high incidence of hip problems and the pain associated with this joint disorder. A growing puppy is best fed a proprietary pet food that has been specifically formulated to meet its nutritional needs. Foods that are available as dry kibble are especially suitable to rear even the youngest of puppies. Opt for this specially formulated food for large breed puppies to keep your dog growing at a healthy rate that helps them stay strong. It is a complete balanced diet so nothing is missing. Within the first few days of arriving to their new home with you is a stressful time. Your puppy has just made a drastic life change and left everything they knew to be with you. Diarrhea and other stomach issues are sometimes stress induced. You can help your puppy by keeping to a regular feeding schedule and feeding them the same food they were on before coming to you. Sometimes diarrhea is also a sign of an underlying health issue and, if left untreated, can become life-threatening. If your puppy vomits blood, has bloody stools and diarrhea, becomes lethargic, or refuses to drink, call your vet immediately! To an 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy biting and nipping are all part of playing with their siblings. And, your puppy will most likely bite and nip you at some point too. They may even growl at you and tug at your hands or nip your ankles. This is all part of puppy play. But… It can really hurt you or make you bleed! Understanding bite inhibition means they know how to control the power of their play bites and how hard or soft they nip you. Preventing Nips and Bites If you know the right way to prevent and stop German Shepherd puppy biting, you can train your puppy to understand how to keep their razor-sharp tiny teeth from sinking into you. Instead… Offer them plenty of puppy-safe chew toys appropriate for their size. When they bite or nip you, calmly show them the toy to chew instead. Get their attention by moving the toy in a playful way around them so they begin to chase and bite the toy, instead of you or your furniture. Use these links to help you stay on the right track throughout their life. Your German Shepherd Puppy: 8 Weeks To 1 Year Old Apr 08, If you're interested in what the progression of your puppy from 8 weeks to 1 year should look like, and how to achieve it; you've come to the right place. If you're expecting a timeline of what achievements you should hit at specific times, this isn't it. All puppies and dogs learn at different rates based on everything from the drive level, interests in reward, your level of training skill etc. Instead of focusing on what tricks and obedience positions your puppy learns, focus on building a relationship with your puppy. Millions of people have adult dogs who won't let them cut their nails or bathe them and must go to a professional groomer. There's nothing wrong with using a groomer's services, but if you must because your dog won't allow you to, it's because you didn't bond with the dog and condition it as a puppy. To begin building a foundation takes a lot of treats, time, socialization, conditioning, and focus training to get engagement. Let's start with socialization. Socialization doesn't mean you let your puppy play with random dogs and strangers. It's quite the opposite. Socialization means you desensitize your puppy to the presence of other dogs and people to the point it doesn't acknowledge them. Other dogs and people become background noise that they're uninterested in. If you view socialization as getting a puppy to love everything, everyone, and every dog they see, you won't have their engagement. If you don't have their engagement on you, they aren't going to listen to you. You'll be the owner who gets drug down the street every time your dog wants to say "hi" to a stranger or new dog. Not only that, but not every stranger is friendly, nor is every dog. It's better to train your puppy to completely ignore everything except you on your walks. Since we've brushed up on what socialization should be and why, let's get into engagement. Engagement means that your dog looks to you. When you say their name, you have their undivided attention. They are looking at you, waiting for instruction. If you've ever had a dog, not come when called, 9 times out of 10 it was doing something it deemed more engaging than looking to you. That means to your dog, that other thing they were doing was more important than anything you had to say or wanted them to do. That becomes life threatening if a dog deems that engaging with the dog across the street is more important than coming when called. So how do you build engagement? Well, thankfully, it's easy! Start from day one by saying your pup's name. If they look at you, click your clicker or say "yes" and give them a treat. If they come to you, even better, give them a treat for looking at you, and another for coming. Your job is to court their attention and reward every time you get it. Before long, your puppy will look to you for everything. Once that happens, training can begin. If you skip this step, you will notice that during training your puppy may sit for you, take the treat, then decide to run around or sniff the ground etc. Those things means that training will take longer because you don't have engagement. Now that you've gotten the engagement you need, start training by making everything a learning experience and a game. You should be upbeat and excited. When you teach your dog to sit, mark the behavior with a click or a yes and reward with a treat excitedly. This only serves to increase engagement. You're not only a treat machine, you're also a fun friend. The more fun you are, the less fun distractions are. You can even begin to blend this into socialization. For example, your puppy sees another dog being walked across the street and starts to focus on them. You call their name, they look at you because you give treats for engagement, and you're way more fun than playing with another dog they don't even know across the street. This is the corner stone of having a dog who obeys commands every time, and not just when there's no distractions around or when they feel it's convenient. We've all either said, or have heard people say "Well, he usually does it when it's just us! Remember, while you're building this bond, trust, and engagement, you also need to start conditioning your puppy. Lift all 4 paws. Open the mouth. Check their ears. Touch their undersides. Open their eyes.This is the time to condition your puppy to being examined, medicated, temperature checked, bathed, nails clipped or dremeled etc. Lastly, during this time, you should be trying your hardest to build drive to play tug with a ball on a rope or tug. Food is great, but many dogs have more prey drive than food drive. If you have such a dog, a ball on a rope or tug is a powerful training agent. It also helps build a bond because puppies love food, but puppies also love to play. Later in life, you'll find it easier to stuff a ball in your pocket than a full pouch of treats as well. All of this sounds like an informal amalgamation of building trust, building a bond, training, desensitization, conditioning, building engagement and drive etc. But that's because this is exactly what raising a puppy in the most efficient and most reliable way possible is. Taking your time and blending all these aspects together until they're one and the same. Trying to create a schedule of when a puppy should know this, or that will not nearly be as fun for you or the puppy. It'll only make you both frustrated and feel like you're failing. But if you take your time, by 12 months, your puppy will know everything you would've put on that schedule, have bonded with you, think training and learning new things is fun, and be a pleasure to groom and vet! If you enjoyed this article, please leave a like and share. Thank you. Check Price on Amazon 7. Make Commands Only Once When it comes to training, what you give is what you get. Teach your pup to heed a command at its first mention. If a command is not executed the first time, show your puppy what you want them to do and make the command again. Repeat that until they can learn to obey the first time the command is made. Unless he is born with a hearing defect that is detected by a vet, your German Shepherd puppy has a perfect hearing ability. If you do, you will train him to be anxious or eventually create the idea that shouting is the norm. Otherwise, your poor puppy will be confused about what you expect and will not know how you want them to behave. Eventually Wean Your German Shepherd Puppy off Training Treats At some point, your puppy needs to learn that skills and commands are not learned or obeyed for the sole motive of a treat. For this reason, it is important to wean your puppy off treats when the time is right. The AKC Pet Insurance advises that this should be done when your dog has repeatedly performed the behavior or trick that you are training him in and mastered it completely. Nonetheless, your German Shepherd puppy is still a dog in training, and you need to replace the treat with some emotional reward. With these ten principles, you can now apply them to the key areas that your German Shepherd puppy needs to be trained in. It might be training for a sport in their early adult years or training to cope with an age-related life change. But, as a puppy, there are five key areas in which you must appropriately train your 8-week old German Shepherd. In the next section, I tell you what training entails for each of these areas. If you are looking for a step-by-step guide on how to train a German Shepherd , I have just the article for you. Humans become social through socialization. Canines become social with training. Humans who are well trained in the first years of life will be well behaved as adults. If you want some scientific proof to the rule that training your German Shepherd young is important for their adult life, here are two key findings from this study: Dogs that are well socialized as puppies will behave more positively with humans and are less likely to display behavioral problems such as fear and aggression. These dogs learn better how to play games with humans than those without proper socialization as puppies. Your dog will learn social skills throughout his life, depending on the situations that he gets exposed to. As a puppy, however, you can teach your German Shepherd socialization through intentional training moments in the family, in public places, or by sending the pup to socialization classes. Taking your German Shepherd out often to social places like parks exposes him to other people and dogs. This helps the canine to be less wary or aggressive around strangers. Being among other puppies also helps your little furry friend build confidence. The earlier mentioned study indicates that puppies can learn social skills better when put in socialization classes with other puppies. So, what does that mean? Usually, dogs will need to relieve themselves early in the morning and once they have had their meal. Use that natural rhythm as a reference for his daily pee or poop walks. Dogs hate messing up their sleeping space and will usually hold it. Nonetheless, young puppies might be unable to do so. If they learn that a relief walk happens first thing in the morning, though, they will eventually make an effort to hold it. Walk your dog after his morning meal and hang around for 15 minutes or so to give him time to do his thing. Repeat the same in the evening. In addition to this for dogs that have had their shots , a short walk every hours is an ideal routine to prevent your dog from peeing around the house. If you crate your puppy because you are out, find someone to help you stick to the routine. The best dog crates will give your pet enough room to stand, sit, turn, and lie down comfortably on his side with paws outstretched. When purchasing a crate for your puppy, you might go for the standard metal model with either a single or double door. I like the double door one as it gives you more options where you can place it in your home, and this one has a carrying handle which makes it easy to move around. Travel kennels like this Petmate Ultra Vari Kennel check Amazon for the latest price are also hardy when you are on the move with your dog, and this one even meets the cargo specifications for airlines. Here are five key things you should practice when crate-training your German Shepherd puppy: Keep your puppy in the crate at night always. Letting him into your bed should be a complete no. Initiate crate training from the very first day you bring your puppy home. It will be harder to succeed in crate training if your puppy gets the idea that there are other options. You will likely hear your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy cry during the first night, but after that, he will be just fine. Keep your dog in the crate when you are out of the house and for his own safety, such as cooking in the kitchen or in exceptional situations like when you have visitors. Instead, reward good behavior in the crate. A blanket and some toys will offer some comfort for your dog. Older dogs may refrain from biting because they have been trained to. Learn Bite Inhibition Training! Contrary to the widespread idea that we should yelp like a puppy and quickly withdraw our hand or clothing when a puppy bites, the best way to teach your German Shepherd puppy that his bite hurts is to cry like the human that you are. If you watch the video, you will see what I mean. Do the same when they bite your clothing and other parts of the body like ears or hair. While doing this training, let your dog differentiate between a bite that hurts and one that is soft and part of playing. Also, training your puppy to soft bite is best initiated early in the first six weeks and continued until 4 to 5 months, or when they have mastered the art of soft biting. The best way to do this is to practice at home first before going out for walks with your pup. Consider the following steps: Introduce your German Shepherd puppy to a harness or collar and leash by first allowing him to get used to it gradually. You can play with your puppy for a while and give a treat before or soon after removing the leash. I find the best no-pull harness to be those that are not rear-attached. Give a treat when the command is obeyed. Introduce your puppy to short walks outside on a leash. Your puppy will get distracted during the walk and may try to pull. Do not pull back; instead, stand firm until he gives up and walks back toward you. Timing is crucial here. Reward every time commands are obeyed and gradually reduce the rewards as the art of walking on a leash is perfected. You can learn how to stop a GSD from pulling on the leash in this article. Final Thoughts 8-weeks-old is a good time to train a German Shepherd puppy in key areas such as socialization, crate training, potty training, leash training, and not biting. To successfully train your puppy in these areas, you must train them young and follow other good training principles like not shouting at your puppy, being consistent in your commands, and rewarding obedience to commands, among others. Always bear in mind that a puppy is just starting. So, be patient and begin with basic commands before introducing the more complex trick commands. Good luck with your new friend! Related Posts You May Like:. This article is designed to help you along your way. This is completely normal. Every new puppy owner has their moments of frustration and doubt. Remember that your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is going through a big life change, too. She may be feeling stressed and out of sorts when you first bring her home. Consistency and structure will go a long way toward helping both of you. Introducing The Puppy Crate A crate can be your best friend when it comes to caring for your 8-week-old puppy. While some people think of crates as cruel, the reality is that with the right training, your puppy will think of her crate as a safe, quiet space where she can go to relax. If you leave your puppy unsupervised at home, you may come back to find a whole lot of destruction. Puppies can get into all kinds of trouble on their own, with their natural curiosity and desire to chomp down on just about everything in their path. A crate can help you keep your German Shepherd puppy — and your belongings! While every puppy is different, chances are your daily schedule for the first week will look a little bit like this: Early morning: Time for the first potty break of the day! Breakfast time: You can feed your puppy breakfast right after her first potty break, or wait a little longer and let her go back to sleep first. Mid-morning: Time for another small meal, and another potty break. Afternoon: Lunchtime followed by a potty break. Late afternoon: Another potty break! Evening: Dinner, and then — you guessed it — potty time. Just before bed: One last trip outside before you turn in for the night. In between potty and mealtimes, your puppy will probably be playing or napping. Scheduling play and exercise at the same times every day can help ensure that you get that nice, quiet naptime right on schedule, too. Potty Training an 8 Week Old German Shepherd Potty training can be one of the most daunting tasks of raising a brand new puppy. It may take a bit longer than you expected for your puppy to get the hang of things! Your puppy has never been apart from her siblings and mother before. The best way to avoid a night full of mournful wailing is to let your puppy sleep in your room, at least in the beginning. Safer ways to keep your puppy comfortable and contained at night include keeping her crate beside your bed, setting up a puppy playpen, or even just using a tall cardboard box. In fact, an 8-week-old puppy can spend as many as 18 hours a day sleeping! This helps keep some element of consistency in her routine and her stomach. If you do decide to switch over to a different food after a few weeks, do so in stages. You can then increase that slowly over time. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should be fed three to four times per day. Because the German Shepherd is a large breed, you should also feed your puppy a diet formulated specifically for large breed puppies. There are many commercially available diets made to help large breed puppies grow at the right rate. This helps to avoid skeletal abnormalities like hip dysplasia. Want more information on what to feed your 8-week-old German Shepherd, and how to change her diet as she gets older? We have everything you need to know right here in our guide to feeding a German Shepherd puppy. The stress of such a drastic life change can manifest in different ways, and an upset stomach is a pretty common reaction. You can give your pup a better chance of having a settled stomach by keeping her on the food she was eating before you brought her home, and feeding on a consistent schedule. Diarrhea can also be a sign of an underlying issue besides stress, however, and severe diarrhea can be life-threatening if left untreated. Your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is likely to bite you too, for exactly the same reason. She may even growl. And it really can hurt! Your Growing Dog As your German Shepherd puppy grows, our guides will help you care for her throughout her life. Here are a few links to get you started:. Can a German Shepherd puppy start training at 8 months? How to Potty Train Your 8-week-old German Shepherd Puppy Potty training your 8-week-old German Shepherd can be stressful at first, but with a bit of persistence and patience, your puppy will learn correct behavior in no time. The potty area can be outdoors or indoors. Having a designated potty place will help your dog understand that this is the only place they should go to poop or pee. Watch Out for Signs One of the first signs is usually an increased awareness of their surroundings. You may notice that your puppy starts sniffing around more often or seems particularly interested in certain places of the house. Watch out also for changes in behavior. If your pup suddenly starts having accidents inside or seems antsy and restless, they may be trying to tell you that they need to go outside. Use Cue Words One way to help your new puppy understand what you want him to do is to use cue words. Cue words will help your German Shepherd puppy learn the connection between the words and the action. You can also use cue words when rewarding him for going in the right spot. Give Training Treats When potty training your puppy, use treats as a form of positive reinforcement. Doing this teaches your puppy that good things happen when they go outside to do their business. When choosing treats for potty training, select something small and easy to eat. This way, the puppy can eat the treat quickly and then get back to playing. It would be best if you also chose training treats that your puppy finds irresistible. Otherwise, they may not be motivated to keep trying. Puppy Crate It is an enclosure to confine your new puppy for short periods. It is also helpful in transporting puppies from one place to another. German Shepherd owners use it for crate training as they can also help with separation anxiety and boredom. Puppy crates usually have a removable tray on the bottom for easy cleaning. They also have wire, plastic, or fabric as the primary materials, and they typically come in different sizes to accommodate puppies of different ages and breeds. When buying a crate, it must be big enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down but small enough so that the puppy does not have too much space to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other. When used correctly, it can provide a safe, comfortable space for your new furry friend. Early Morning: Bring your Puppy Outside When your German Shepherd is a still puppy, he may have trouble holding his bladder throughout the night. If you do not let your puppy out early enough, it might create potty accidents because he cannot control their bladder. Morning: Time for a Nutritious Breakfast Puppies need a lot of nutrients to grow up healthy and strong. A nutritious breakfast helps them get the energy they need to start the day. Even though puppies spend most of their time sleeping and cuddling, puppies require several daily feedings. Place your puppy on your lap and snuggle while sleeping. It would be best if you also let them rest throughout the day. Afternoon: Lunchtime Take your puppy outside after lunch to relieve themselves. Allow your puppy time to exercise and release any built-up energy. Feeding your puppy .Between naps, you can do playtime and training activities to help release energy, encourage physical activity, and develop a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd. Evening: Last meal of the Day During the evening, feed your puppy their fourth and last meal. Afterward, take your puppy for a short stroll. Before returning, have your puppy go potty outside, then snuggle up on the sofa for some quality time. Night: Potty Break Before Bedtime Take your puppy out for one more potty time before putting him to bed. Remember that you should establish a reasonable bedtime for your puppy early on. Moreover, an 8-week-old German Shepherd may develop a better appetite for other solid meals. These include constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. Diarrhea Diarrhea is a common problem that many German Shepherd puppies face. This condition has several possible causes, including dietary indiscretion, viral infections, and intestinal parasites. In most cases, diarrhea is not a serious concern and will resolve itself within a few days. However, seek veterinary care if your puppy displays other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or lack of appetite. Constipation A young German Shepherd is particularly susceptible to constipation due to their large, muscular build and fast metabolism. If your puppy is constipated, you may notice that he has difficulty passing stool and seems uncomfortable or restless. If your puppy is constipated, take him to the vet for treatment. The vet may give him a laxative or enema to help relieve constipation. Bloating Bloating occurs when the stomach fills with gas, causing it to swell. German Shepherds are especially prone to bloating because of their deep chests. There are several possible causes of bloating, including eating too fast, drinking too much water, and exercising immediately after eating. Stress can also be a factor. To prevent bloating, feed your German Shepherd several small meals daily instead of one large meal. It is also important to avoid exercising immediately after eating and ensure that your dog has access to fresh water. Yes, a German Shepherd puppy can start training at eight months. But remember that every puppy is different and will learn at its own pace. Consistency is key, and with patience, your puppy will get the hang of obedience training in no time. Training should be a bonding experience for you and your pup! Remember to have fun and keep it light. At eight weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy sleeps for around 18 hours daily. It may seem like a lot, but puppies need a lot of sleep to grow and develop properly. As they get older, German Shepherds will sleep for less time each day. German Shepherd puppies use their mouths to explore their surroundings and socialize with other dogs and people. In addition, puppies typically start teething around eight weeks old, which can cause them to bite more as they try to relieve the discomfort caused by their emerging teeth. Puppies also explore the world with their mouths, and biting is a way for them to learn about their environment. In addition, puppies may bite out of excitement or frustration, especially if they are not getting enough exercise. If your puppy is biting excessively, provide him with plenty of chew toys and opportunities to run and play. Also read:.

German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Welcome to our German Shepherd puppy development stages and ages — week by week guide Different breeds like all different babies develop at different rates. There are going to be many exciting events for you to look forward to. Whether you are bringing your 8 week German Shepherd puppy home or about to be blessed with a litter of puppies. This is going to be an exciting, demanding but hugely rewarding journey. Newborn puppies are born at around days after fertilization. Newborn puppies are born with their ears and eyes tightly sealed. The reason eyelids are sealed shut is to form a protective barrier for the fragile developing eye. This helps to protect them from any foreign object, bright lights, bacteria or any other microorganism that can cause disease or damage. In the same way puppies ear canals are closed at birth to make them effectively deaf. This is a protective barrier to protect the fragile underdeveloped machinery needed to hear. In a mature ear the pressure caused by sound will mechanically move structures in the ear. German Shepherd puppies are highly dependent upon their noses. Puppies navigate by smell from the moment they are born. This helps them to identify their mom, the very important milk supply, siblings and surroundings. Newborn puppies are born with a fur coat however they cannot control their own body temperature yet. To keep them warm they are dependant on their mothers or another heat source. If you live in a cooler climate installing a heat lamp would be ideal to help keep the puppies nice and warm. Germans Shepherds make amazing mothers and will be relied on a lot at this stage. Mother dogs will only leave their newborn puppies to go to the toilet, eat and drink. However, when mom has gone the newborn puppies are not completely useless. They are able to use their front paws to drag themselves towards a heat source. When mom is away the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat. Along with being able to drag themselves to a heat source newborn puppies are also able to drag themselves to their mothers to locate the milk supply. They will move their heads around to search for a nipple, latch on and suck strongly. Newborn puppies are not born with teeth these will also develop in the next several weeks. Other than the above puppies are completely dependent upon the care of their dedicated mom. Newborn puppies have little control over the rear end of their bodies. To encourage their pups to pass urine and bowel movements the mom will lick their bottoms. Anything produced mom will then lick up and swallow to keep her puppies and nest clean. Some pups will even double their birth weight! Your German Shepherd puppy will still be highly dependent upon their mom at this stage. Beneath all their fur the vital organs will be working hard to mature. This includes the eyes. Your puppy will not be ready to open their eyes yet but lots of changes are taking place to prepare them for grand opening. The ear canals will begin to open around the same time as the eyes. When the ear canals do open, the ears are much more formed than the eyes are at this point in time. Their eyesight usually takes around 8 weeks to reach its full potential. When their eyes become wider, they will reveal blueish-gray eyes which are hazy in appearance. Their eyesight will continue to develop until around 8 weeks old. The ear canals will also open around 2 weeks. The puppies hearing has been developing much quicker than their eyesight and they will be able to hear most things by the time their ear canals fully open. However, their amazing hearing ability will continue to enhance over the next several weeks. At the moment your German Shepherd puppy will have cute floppy ears. Their adorable tall ears can come up anywhere between 8 weeks and 6 months of age. Floppy ears are common until your German Shepherd finishes teething. By then the ear cartilage will become strong and hard enough for the ears to stand up permanently. Now is a good time to start handling the puppies and get them used to your voice. Most puppies are wormed for the first time when they are 2 weeks old. All this development has happened so quickly, but things are about to get even more exciting. Between 2 and 4 weeks your German Shepherd puppy will begin to stand up this is when the real fun begins. Puppies milky teeth will also start to develop between 2 to 4 weeks. These sharp little teeth will remain until about weeks of age. These little daggers play an important role during the weaning process. Even the most patient moms will struggle to nurse with these sharp painful teeth. This reluctance to nurse will prompt the German Shepherds to seek alternative food sources. These sharp teeth will then help to make up for the lack of jaw strength when eating solid foods. Finally, these sharp puppy teeth play an important role in teaching the pups to gauge their bite pressure when playing with their mom and siblings. This is an essential life lesson that enables our powerful German Shepherds to become safer companions as they mature into strong adult dogs. During the last few weeks mom has done an amazing job of getting her babies strong and their mobility will have come on leaps and bounds well not quite yet but by 3 weeks of age your German Shepherd puppy will begin to trotter around. Most 3 week old German Shepherd puppies can stand and sit. With their baby teeth starting to cut through a lot of breeders. Especially those with large litters will start introducing some solid foods. This helps relieve some of the pressure for the devoted German Shepherd mom. When weaning puppies, you need to start off by soaking their food in either water or puppy milk replacement formula to make it mushy and more comfortable for them to eat. As they start to interact and play with their siblings their personalities will really start to show. You may also notice them starting to playfully growl at each other. At 3 weeks old it will become easier to start identifying different members of the pack. Breeders and moms will be kept on their toes and paws over the next few weeks. As the pups start getting more confident on their feet they will be running around and playing enthusiastically. At 4 weeks old they will begin to wag their adorable little tails. With solid food becoming a major part of their diet the pups will be passing bigger bowel movements. They will be able to show more control of their bowel movements as they take themselves away from their brothers and sisters to perform their business. At this stage mom will be taking a much more relaxed approach to parenting and there will be a lot more for the breeder to clear up. By this point mealtimes are a messy process. If it is warm and safe enough to do so we would recommend taking the pups out in the yard for feeding. German Shepherd puppies are becoming a lot stronger at vocalisations by 4 weeks old. When mom returns to her babies the litter will noisily greet her. Around 4 weeks of age your puppies will need to be wormed again. From this week onwards human interaction is very important in order to form relationships with people. Including different noises and smells. This exposure will ensure your German Shepherd puppy turns into a confident, friendly individual. Mom will also be doing an important job of teaching her puppies to not bite too hard. Even an 8 week old German Shepherd puppy would have the power in their jaws to break the smaller bones in humans fingers. This is why mom teaching her puppies bite inhibition is so important. For more information on bite inhibition please see our guide on German Shepherd bite inhibition. By 5 weeks old German Shepherd puppies will be eating a lot of solid foods, several times throughout the day. Those sharp little teeth would have done their job and mom will be gradually weaning her pups of the dependency on her milk. When mom does feed her puppies, she will only do so for a short period whilst standing up. They will be eating between five and six small meals a day. Although the pups no longer rely on mom for milk, they still need her help and guidance for the next few weeks. Mom will be teaching her babies important life skills to live alongside humans. In some countries 6 week old puppies are taken away from their mothers and moved into their new home. We would not recommend this as the puppies will miss out on continued bite inhibition training from their siblings and mother. This can result in a puppy who bites too hard which can be challenging to manage as they get older. In the USA your puppy will be due their first combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 6 weeks old. This vaccine helps to immunizes your puppy against hepatitis, parvo, distemper, parainfluenza and coronavirus. Most puppies will also need to be wormed again at 6 weeks old. Their last week together will consist of plenty of socialization and playing. Most breeders will arrange a 7 week health check up with the vet to make sure your bundle of fluff is fit and healthy to go to their new home. In the UK some breeders will arrange for the pups first 8 week vaccination to take place during this check. Although some vets advise against it. By the end of this week German Shepherd puppies are ready to leave their mothers and move into their new homes for good. The week you get to take your new puppy home. This will be a very exciting time, but you may also be feeling a bit nervous. There will be some challenged along the way for new puppy owners and your puppy will take some time to adjust to life without its mother and siblings. In the UK the first combined vaccination will help to immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. The first puppy injection in the UK typically will happen between 8 and 10 weeks. Some breeders would have trained the puppies to poop and pee on newspapers or puppy pads. From the moment you get them home it is important to show your German Shepherd puppy where to pee and poop. Puppies naturally like to pee where they have done so before so to avoid building history of peeing in your home is best if you can to avoid it. The more you can avoid accidents from happening as much as possible from the start the faster the puppy training process should be. All puppies are different, and some will get this quicker than others. The main thing to remember is not to discipline your puppy for accidents. The most successful way to potty train is to reward success and ignore accidents. Just clean them up quickly and thoroughly. Your puppy will love nothing more than being praised. For more information please see our guide on How to potty train your German Shepherd puppy. Already your German Shepherd puppy will feel like part of the family. German Shepherds puppies are always adorable but at 9 weeks they are at the age where they are still puppy-like but very clumsy,curious and keen to play with her new family, which is very cute. Your German Shepherds unique personality will make you feel very proud. At 9 weeks your cheeky German Shepherd pup will be feeling more confident, with this the need to explore everything and anything may end up getting them into trouble. Your puppy will develop new sleeping patterns and feeding routines which you will need to adapt to. Most puppies will sleep between eighteen and twenty hours a day at 9 weeks old. During the day when you are with your puppy generally you will not need to shut them away in a crate to nap. German Shepherd puppies are often more than happy to sleep whilst family life goes on around them. However, there will be times when sleeping in a crate is better and safer for your puppy. You must not leave a 9 week old puppy to sleep outside the crate if you are not home to watch them if they wake. Puppies are into everything and many innocent items found in the house could be a potential hazard to your inquisitive pup. For more information please see our guide on how to puppy proof your home. Even if your puppy can barely keep their eyes open other pups and children will still want to play and your German Shepherd puppy may find it hard to refuse. After a hard day of play the peace and quiet of a crate will enable your pup to have a well-deserved nap. If your German Shepherd puppy does need to go to the toilet in the night make sure you keep it short and to a minimum. Establishing a daily routine is the best way to get your German Shepherd puppy to sleep through the night. Part of this schedule will involve mealtimes. Your 9 week old puppy will need four meals a day. Split these up throughout the day and try to stick to similar times. This is to stop encouraging your puppy to wake up earlier and earlier because they associate waking with food. You should always reward your puppy either vocally, with a favourite toy or treats for good behaviour and ignore bad behaviour. Puppies and dogs want to be praised so they respond very well to positive encouragement. Punishing puppies and dogs may have a short term positive effect on their behaviour but long term you could be setting them up to fail. It is very important to socialise and expose your puppy to other humans, dogs and different scenarios whilst they are young. This maybe hard before your puppy has had all its vaccines however getting many different people to come and visit you at your home will enable them to get used to visitors. Before their full vaccinations you can also, you can take you German Shepherd puppy out and about with you to expose them to the outside world as long as you can carry them. If you live in the USA, your puppy will be due their second combined 5-in-1 vaccine at 9 weeks old. In the USA a minimum of three sets of the combined vaccine are required for your puppy. Although you cannot put your puppy down outside until after their final vaccination. Puppies 10 week injection In the UK is a booster vaccination to help immunizes your puppy against distemper, parvovirus, leptospirosis and hepatitis. Check with your vet what date after their jabs your German Shepherd puppy will be able to go down outside. Your puppy will then need a booster between 6 and 12 months old. If you live in the USA at 12 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be due their booster for the combined 5in1 vaccine against hepatitis, distemper, parainfluenza, parvo and coronavirus and a vaccine against rabies and leptospirosis. If you live in a high risk area, they may also need to be given the vaccination to help immunize them against Lyme. If applicable at 16 weeks your German Shepherd puppy may need to have a fourth combined 5in1 vaccine. A minimum of three combined injections are required in the USA. Check with your vet what date they will be able to be out down outside. By 10 weeks old your German Shepherd puppy will be able to control their bladder a lot more. Potentially up to several hours. This is great time for you to introduce them to the big wide world and develop their social skills which you have already been building the foundations. When taking your German Shepherd puppy out try to introduce them to as many other friendly dogs, humans and noises you can. This will help your German Shepherd puppy to grown into a confident well-rounded dog. At 3 months old your German Shepherd will go down from four daily meals to three. These three portions will be larger than what they are used to which may cause stomach upset. If your German Shepherd puppy does get an upset stomach, try going back to four smaller meals for a couple of days and they try the three larger portions again. This can be a challenging time as your adorable German Shepherd puppy turns into a furry crocodile. Luckily the teething stage is only a phase as with human babies and short lived. In most cases your puppy biting should stop around when they are around 7 months old and have their adult teeth. You maybe noticing your German Shepherds gorgeous ears fluctuating between floppy and pointy. By the time your puppy has finished teething their ears should tick up all the way. This usually happens around months. As they grow their cartilage becomes stronger. Some puppies need another month or so to help them cope without going out for frequent toilet breaks. Even when your German Shepherd puppy is toilet trained occasional accidents are normal. German Shepherds do have large ears but they tend to grow into them as they get older. German Shepherd puppies will begin to grow their new adult coat between 4 and 6 months old. To make way for their adult coat all the puppy hair has to go. For several weeks you will notice an increase in shedding. This is a completely normal part of growing up for your German Shepherd. Being a double coat breed German Shepherds dogs have a topcoat and an undercoat. Twice a year your pup will shed their undercoat. Usually in spring and again in fall. They also shed in general days a year so be prepared for a lot of fur! They will very much look like a smaller version of their adult selves. Although your German Shepherd may look older on the inside, they are still very much a puppy. If you are looking to get your puppy neutered or spayed the recommended age is 6 to 9 months. However, it is common for some female puppies to get spayed at 4 months old. Summary: Your German Shepherd is bound to give you so much joy and happiness throughout its life. There will be challenges along the way but remember this is completely normal. German Shepherds are such an amazing breed and you will have a loyal friend for life. Related Posts. She, in that time, will be feeding them. And, if nothing bad happens, she should be close to her puppies for the next 8 to 10 weeks, and should not be separated from them for too long. This is due to the simple fact, that they first get all the basic knowledge of life from their mother, who would train and care for them. Not only they should already walk confidently, but the amount of information they get from their mother is increased drastically! They should start socializing and learning the environment in all the details. They are now also more confident with who they are, what other species of animals are there, and who us, people, are as well. Now, they explore everything around them, as curiously as they can! And, finally, they start developing emotional reactions to things. And, as the puppies eat much more, than adults, it will need a lot of food as well. But full-grown teeth are formed at around 4th week of development. Their development is going as fast as it can, and anything that might obstruct it is the most important enemy. Their mother keeps most of the illnesses from them, and without her they risk getting sick. Not only this, but they can be very allergic to cleaning chemicals. And the utmost important thing is a good, clean environment. You must be very cautious when choosing detergents. If their caring mother is not around, which you should not allow for too long, the problem of feeding is fully on you. And you should be responsible! Ask a vet about what should you give to your puppies before doing anything yourself. Try to keep your puppies in all the same place, as they are socializing with each other, as stated above. And this is everything you need to know about 3 week old puppies. Good luck, an thank You for reading! They cannot see or hear yet, or regulate their body temperature, and they require a lot of tender care from their mom. The new mom is usually very excited and concerned about each newborn, and sometimes overly enthusiastic about chewing off the umbilical cord, which may later result in an umbilical hernia that will take a little longer to close, but is no danger to the puppy. We record the ribbon color and weight of each puppy so that, when we weigh the pups throughout the next days and weeks, we can make sure that each one is gaining weight. Normal weight for a newborn German Shepherd puppy ranges from g to g 0. We take great care to ensure that our newborn German Shepherd puppies have the best chance for a healthy start. A German Shepherd female can be in active labor for 6 to 18 hours, sometimes even longer if she takes a break while having a large litter, and we of course do not leave her side during this time. I stay up making sure that the whelping box which is always in my office or bedroom is clean and dry after each puppy is born, and that the temperature stays constant 86 - 88 F in the room. We keep the temperature at this level for about 2 weeks, gradually reducing it down to normal F by the end of the third week. Someone is always present with the puppies during the first 5 days. I handle the puppies several times a day, as well as weigh them every other day during this period, to make sure that everyone looks and acts healthy, nurses well, and is gaining weight. I usually buy a dozen fluffy cotton towels, and use two at a time as bedding for the whelping box. I change these towels twice daily at this stage to make sure the puppies are always clean and dry. Starting from day 3, and until day 16, I follow The "Super Dog" Program for our puppies - an early neurological stimulation program described by Dr. Carmen Battaglia. It has numerous benefits later in life for puppies. Often, puppies that were born the smallest overtake the bigger ones. Even at this tender age strong individual differences can be noted among German Shepherd puppies. Also, there is difference in their color and markings, and long-hair German Shepherd puppies can often be identified at this age. The new mom is very attached to her puppies at this age and is very reluctant to leave them even for the shortest time. She spends a lot of time sleeping with the puppies nursing peacefully, and is also very happy to be busy cleaning each puppy several times a day and flipping them around gently with her nose. At about 2 weeks of age German Shepherd puppies actually start looking more like puppies, and not just fat black sausages with feet attached. We use undiluted evaporated goats milk from a can, warmed up to be pleasant to the touch. Most puppies readily accept the bottle, and we consider this to be very important bonding and social time as well. Three weeks of age is my favorite age of all. The puppies now can be recognized as German Shepherd puppies. They are alert, playful, and there is a lot of wrestling, tail-wagging, and even barking going on as they explore their surroundings and interact with each other and their mom, all of which is extremely cute. I will often just sit in the whelping box with them, letting them play with my clothes, climb up on my lap, and generally just enjoying their carefree company. We also provide them with various toys starting at this age, and make sure that they listen to loud music, banging on the door, vacuum cleaner, etc. They weigh around 1. At first, they may not have a lot of success with it, as some of them try to suckle on the meat, but in a few days they master this new type of eating very well. We also continue giving them goats milk, but in a shallow saucer pan now, and with some rice baby cereal added, so that they can practice lapping. At this age, the mom is no longer so keen on constantly staying with her puppies, and only visits them to feed them and for a clean up. We continue changing the bedding twice a day now, knowing very well that in about a week it will become times a day, as the mom will not be able to keep up with her cleaning duties any more. We wash soiled towels with a little bit of bleach and a little bit of perfume-free detergent. Four weeks of age is even more fun as the puppies keep developing, but the amount of cleaning starts to increase in geometrical progression, and it becomes a full time job to keep the puppies well fed and clean. The mom is only visiting now and then at this point, and enjoys spending her time in the office, so that she can hear and see the puppies, but not necessarily be with them. With mom visiting for a few brief feedings each day, we feed them three times a day with the following diet: 1. Cottage cheese 2 tbsp per puppy , mixed with plain yogurt 1 tsp per puppy , evaporated goats milk, rice baby cereal 1 tsp. Raw tripe, or beef liver cooked with all kinds of vegetables At about 5 weeks of age the duty of keeping the whelping box clean becomes nightmarish, and this is a good time to introduce German Shepherd puppies to the outdoors. This is a room that is a part of the house, but has free access to the outside world. This room is equipped with a wooden resting platform so that puppies do not lay on concrete, with a heating lamp above it, and the floor is completely covered with a layer of pine woodchips. The outside area is about 6 x 6 ft and the floor is made of paving stones. There is another wooden laying platform here. This is a very important period when we introduce our German Shepherd puppies to more noises, show them the way in and out of the house, introduce them to the other dogs, play tug-of-war, etc. Also, we introduce raw frozen sardines and "The Honest Kitchen" products to their diet, and will occasionally feed kibble, soaked well in warm water and mixed with green tripe from a can At 3, 5, and 7 weeks of age our German Shepherd puppies get dewormed with a high quality wormer, to be certain that they are free of intestinal parasites. At about 6 weeks of age the puppies get their first combination 5-way vaccine including Parvo and Distemper , and at 7 weeks of age we start welcoming visitors who are interested to come and look at the puppies. Often during weekends we have several groups of visitors of all ages coming to interact with the puppies, which is such a great socialization opportunity for them. Copyright .All rights reserved. Baby German Shepherds growing up! German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most popular dog breeds out there at the moment, with many devoted fans. They can be large and imposing as adults. But, like every breed, they have a cute puppy phase that many fall in love with. However, since most puppies are bought at weeks old, most of us miss out on this magical period of their lives. So what happens during those first important weeks? A typical German Shepherd litter consists of around puppies. The mean average, according to a study performed in , is 6. When they are first born, they will still have an umbilical cord attached and may be covered in amniotic fluid. Their mother should chew off the umbilical cord and spend the first few hours cleaning their pups. Then mom will focus on keeping her newborn pups warm while allowing them to nurse. At this stage, German Shepherd puppies will just sleep and avoid expending energy. They will frequently nurse from their mother. Newborn German Shepherds When baby German Shepherd puppies are first born, they are completely dependent on their mother. Their ears and eyes will be closed and they will be unable to regulate their own body temperature efficiently. A coat should be present, and the color will depend on the genes they have inherited from their parents. Black with tan markings is the most common for this breed. Additionally, they will be relatively immobile. They will be unable to properly support their own weight. Therefore, they will commonly crawl on their stomach to move about. They will also be unable to urinate or defecate on their own. Stimulation from their mother will be required to help them go to the toilet. One Week Old Baby German Shepherd In the first week, the puppies should bulk up significantly and double their birth weight. However, there will not be much change in their behavior. They will still primarily be focused on nursing and sleeping. To help themselves stay warm, the puppies will normally cuddle close to each other, except for when they are in a hot environment. At this stage, they will still be blind and deaf. While they are still unable to see very well, this is a big step. Eyes should open for the first time at around days of age. They will appear blue in color, but this will change into brown as they develop. They may become a little more inquisitive about their surroundings with their new-found eyesight, and may begin to crawl around a little more. We can expect to see them make some big steps at this stage. Firstly, at around days old, their ears should begin to open for the first time. They should now be able to both see and hear, though not too clearly. Their senses will continue to develop over the coming weeks. They will begin to be able to stand and support their own weight. Walking may still be tough, though! They will likely be pretty wobbly. You can also expect to see their baby teeth come in at around this time. While they still get the majority of their nutrition from their mother, they will begin to show interest in solid food. They will begin to become more independent at this age, being able to urinate and defecate on their own. Beginning Of Socialization With their sight and hearing, they are likely to show a little bit of adventure and courage for the first time, exploring their surroundings as much as their unsteady gait will allow them. This milestone also marks the beginning of the socialization period, a critical phase of their development. Things learned now can shape their personality and behavior for the rest of their lives. They may engage the other puppies in clumsy play and show body language such as tail wagging for the first time. They will form relationships with their den mates, their mother, and humans. This stage is critical in getting the puppies used to humans. This can be achieved by gently exposing the puppies to human presence and contact so that they can see that they are no threat. While their brains are still very much in development, they are still able to learn some simple concepts at this stage. Crate and potty training can begin at this age. They should now be able to walk pretty well. This mobility will allow them to further play with their family and be even more curious about their surroundings. On top of this, their baby teeth should now be fully formed and the weaning process should be fully underway. They should be offered soft but solid food. They may begin to show signs of more complex social behaviors towards their other den mates, and they should learn important skills like bite inhibition. The socialization process should continue, with the puppies gently being exposed to new people, sights, and sounds. The German Shepherd babies will also be further weaned off the mother at this time, slowly moving onto a fully solid diet. Six Week Old Baby German Shepherd At this age, you will begin to see the puppies become even more independent of their mother. Six week old puppies are gaining social skills rapidly, and love to play with people and each other. Seven Week Old Baby German Shepherd When we move into the seventh week of their life, a new significant phase of development starts to begin: the fear period. While this sounds disconcerting, it merely means that this is the time that many puppies begin to show fear towards new things, rather than curiosity. Things that the puppy may find scary or uncertain during this time can make for big changes in their personality throughout life. For example, if a puppy has a bad experience with a human at this stage, it may lead them to becoming fearful and distrustful towards people for the rest of their life. This is why gently exposing the puppies to humans and common sights and sounds beforehand is important. By preemptively socializing the puppies with humans, we can help this period run smoother. The puppies will have reached weights of around pounds and should be around inches tall. Their ears will lie flat but should begin to become erect and upright over the coming weeks. They will be fully independent of their mother at this age. They should be completely weaned, with some basic training and socialization. From here, new owners are expected to continue to train and socialize them, as they are still within a critical period of development. New owners will also need to continue to ensure the German Shepherd puppy is fed a good, nutritionally balanced diet. For more information, you can check out our full puppy development guide here. And make sure you also take a look at this guide to bathing a puppy!

January 20, 0 Comments WorldAnimalFoundation. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission. Learn More Labrador Retriever is a quite famous breed, topping the list of great family dogs due to their friendly and social personality. Now, what colors come to your mind when you think of the Labradors? Black, yellow, and chocolate. Silver Labrador Retriever is a beautiful color variation of traditional Labradors; because of the presence of a dilute gene. Their distinct coat color has caught the attention of many; however, not without some controversy. About the Breed Silver Labrador Retrievers are one of the rarest shades of labradors. They are a hyperactive breed with a compelling sporting nature. They respond well to training, enjoy exploring nature with you, love playing water sports, and are fond of the fetch game, making them perfect for active families. These beautiful dogs are well-known for befriending every creature they see without any degree of communication. They love being the center of attention and thrive on social interaction. A little clingy at times, but they deserve all that for their service just existing. Their agreeable personality and intelligence make them one of the most charming breeds. However, according to the breed standard set by Labrador Retriever Club, true labradors are yellow, black, and chocolate in color. Many breeders believe that the other colors are due to cross-breeding Labradors with Weimaraners. They were created in Newfoundland and were first introduced by the European to Britain settlers via the ships trading between Canada and Poole. Labs were initially bred for duck retrieving, assisting in fishing adventures, and as a hunting dog. But with time, their popularity grew more as household pets, and to this date, especially in the western world. They first started appearing, according to some sources, in , while others believe it was in the s. Now, it is clear that their distinct coat colors are due to the presence of the recessive dilute gene pair that has recently appeared in the Labrador gene pool. The source of that dilute gene is what makes their exact origin vague. This is why the profile of Silver Labs remains controversial for the most part. Silver Labrador Facts Silver Labradors have blue eyes as puppies. They are more prone to developing skin problems such as Color Dilution Alopecia than other Labradors. They are outgoing and social. They are intelligent and highly trainable Silver Labrador Appearance Just look at Silver Labrador slaying in this picture, like he was born to model. Silver Labs undoubtedly possess the most distinct silverish gray color that leaves an impact on the observer. Their eyes are a beautiful shade of yellow, on which a relatively small black pupil looks striking. They have long floppy ears that rest flat on the sides. Their nose, which is always in search of something to eat or sniffing butts , tends to be brown in color. These rare gray labradors have this indescribable charm that keeps winning people over. Owners tend to be drawn to their wide skulls and muscular build. The average height range for almost all grown Silver Labs is between .WeightThe male Silver Lab tends to have a slightly bulkier build in contrast to the female Lab. On average, the weight of a fully-grown Silver Labrador falls between 55 to 80 pounds. The weight range is 45 to 70 pounds in the case of female Labs. CoatSilver Lab has a double coat to protect them against harsh cold weather. Theirinner coatis denser and thicker as compared to their outer coat, which is thinand short. Their coat is overall smooth and shiny and feels euphoric to pet. Yellow and black are the most common coat shades in Labrador Retrievers, and silver and chocolate are the least common. Silver Lab Puppies A Silver Labrador puppy is one of the most aesthetically pleasing sights to the eyes in the world. The sparkly blue eyes and the smoky grey shade make a striking contrast. As time progresses, they tend to darken. Their eyes turn yellow after the Silver pups cross the age of 6 to 8 months. Silver Labrador Temperament and Personality Talking about Silver Lab temperament, just like other Labrador Retrievers, they too have friendly, affectionate, caring personalities. They are a very intelligent breed that makes the best companion to their human family. This high-spirited breed matures physically but remains child-like at heart, lifting the mood around the house by being jolly, goofy, jumpy, and adored by absolutely everyone. The Silver Labrador retriever has an easy-going personality, which means they enjoy every activity with you. They just want to feel your touch, no matter what you do. It is because of their attachment to their owners, which is why they are prone to exhibiting signs of separation anxiety when left alone on their own for too long. Moreover, it is a social breed that thrives on attention and being around people. These sweet creatures are the best friends of kids. Silver Labs are patient and gentle toward children; they can be their playmates for hours without getting tired. One of the best qualities of These dogs is they get along really well with other dogs and pets. On the contrary, they get excited at the sight of another human, hang out with them and try to impress them with how cool they are they actually are. They also tend to chewupon objects due to anxiety. The Silver Lab is an active breed, just like the black and yellow labs. In order to keep them away from destructive behaviors, they need to stay stimulated mentally and physically. They can be a little prone to nipping, so they do require a lot of your attention. Plus, if you enjoy outdoor adventures like hiking, then Silver Lab will prove to be an extraordinary companion to you. Due to being double-coated, they shed a fair amount of hair, especially the Silver Labrador, because of skin problems. Grooming Requirements Brushing As we mentioned above, labs shed quite a bit. And by this, we mean you will be able to collect an adequate amount of hair from all over the house, especially during peak season. Using coconut oil at least once a month can keep their coat neat, shiny, and soft. Gently massage the oil for about five minutes and then clean it with a towel. Bathing Bathing your Labrador Retriever once a month is adequate. Use lukewarm water and mild shampoo; it will keep their skin maintained. However, if you start noticing scratching of nails against the floor while running, walking, or jumping around, trim their nails immediately. Ear Cleaning Their adorable floppy ears need to be checked and cleaned frequently to prevent any potential infection. Always include ear cleaning in their grooming session. Health Complications in Silver Labrador Every breed is likely to face minor or major health complications. And we have listed all the possible health conditions your Labrador Breed could suffer from. When getting a Silver Labrador, always look for a reputable breeder. Life Expectancy Silver Labrador dogs typically have a lifespan between 10 to 14 years. It can vary from dog to dog based on health issues, environment, and other factors. It occurs due to the presence of a recessive gene. In this condition, your dog suffers from skin problems, including hair loss or thinning in the form of patches, itchiness, scaliness, or flaky skin. Vets give treatments to tackle secondary skin infections. Avoid using brushes with harsh bristles. The deficiency of type II muscle fibers causes muscle weakness, resulting in symptoms like stunted growth, trouble swallowing, stiff arched back, shrunken muscles, and low tolerance to exercise. They progressively get worse and are the most prominent in 5 months old puppy. Sadly, most puppies with CNM are subjected to euthanization due to their inability to function normally in life. No dog owner should ever have to go through this painful experience. This developmental issue in both joints causes difficulty or friction in climbing stairs, jumping, running, and even walking. Exercise Induced Collapse Labradors and their unending love for playing and exercise is not something hidden; their energy drive is high. EIC refers to the recessive autosomal inherited trait. Your Labrador Retriever, despite feeling weak, will still try to be active. Then after five to ten minutes, they collapse. Extreme exercise sessions are to be avoided in dogs with this condition. This results in excessive discharge from ears, inflammation, itching, foul odor, and head shaking. Otitis Externais one of the most common ear infections in Silver Labradors, characterized by ear canal inflammation. Ear infections are unpleasant and painful and cause discomfort for your dogs. Consult a local veterinarian right away if you notice any of the above symptoms. Over Eating Labrador Retrievers are quite popular for being foodies. Some scientists associate it with a genetic mutation. Sometimes, overeating might also indicate an underlying serious health issue like hypothyroidism. Silver Labrador Diet and Nutrition Your high-energy Labrador Retriever needs a high-quality, nutritious, and protein-rich diet to function healthily. The amount of dog food you feed them may vary a little with their size and weight. For example, your Silver Lab of 50 pounds will need about 2 and a half cups of good quality dog food daily. The calorie requirement for an pound Silver Labrador is a little higher; they will need about 3 and a half cups of dog food to fulfill their 1, calorie requirement each day. Consider getting dog food that has adequate calcium for better joint development. And remember, it is always best to divide the meals into 3 to 4 intervals for better digestion. These greedy creatures tend to unleash their inner ever-hungry beast at the sight of food, which causes bloating. In order to keep them physically and mentally stimulated, 60 minutes of exercise every day is essential. And if your Lab is super active, make it 1. Labs love playing fetch, running, going on fast-paced walking, and being goofy. Thus, their exercise session can include any activity; just make sure they get enough exercise every day! Dedicate one hour of your time daily to your dog, and give them all your attention and love. Apart from playing and exercising, you can keep them busy by getting them interactive and stimulating toys. Those toys also help them in providing comfort when you leave them alone for a while. They are a highly intelligent breed and can be easily trained. They are a welcome addition to most families. Positive reinforcements work well with them; their love for food makes it easier to lure them into doing literally anything you want. All you need is a favorite treat, toy, or any complimentary food, and boom; your Lab becomes the most obedient boy in the world. As puppies, they are easier to control and manage, while the adult Labs are larger in size and can be a little stubborn. Conclusion Altogether, Silver Labrador dogs have all lovable characteristics, just like the traditional Labrador. They are outgoing, energetic, sweet, intelligent, and loyal furry friends. Their friendliness towards kids, strangers and other pets makes them great dogs for families. You might face a little difficulty finding reputable silver labrador breeders when getting a Silver Labrador. Follow your heart and go for it! Related Guide:. As one of the most energetic breeds, your Silver Lab puppy will always be down for exercise, play, swimming or any other outdoor activity. Playful and excitable, be prepared to remove any knick-knacks from coffee tables or end tables — this breed is notorious for knocking these over with an almost constantly wagging tail! Widely considered the sweetest tempered dog breed, your Silver Lab puppy will light up every time you walk in the room — greeting you with kisses and affection when you come home after a long day at work. Highly intelligent, these dogs can easily be trained to respond to a variety of commands — and their alert nature makes them natural guard dogs. As one of the most lovable dog breeds, your Silver Lab puppy is sure to get along with everyone — from other dogs to small children and the elderly — making the breed a perfect fit for almost anyone who has the stamina to keep up with it! Many of these conditions affect dogs in later life, though some can occur during adolescents and early adulthood. To learn more about our commitment to ethical breeding practices , read about the Keystone Puppies Health Guarantee! This hunting breed has a water-resistant or water-repellent coat that is slightly dry and oily. Unlike many short-haired breeds, Labs are outdoor dogs. They are usually able to keep warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Silver Labrador Retrievers have short, straight coats that shed seasonally. They have a double coat — with thick, dense hair — which helps keep them warm during winter months. Their heavy coats also offer additional insulation when swimming — a favorite pastime of Labradors, Silver Labs included. With a low-maintenance coat, the Silver Labrador Retriever only needs brushed once or twice a week. Meet Silver Lab Puppies for Sale. We have Lab puppies for sale in California that are available throughout the year in different colors, including Silver Labradors , Charcoal Labs and Champagne Labs! Let us know what you are looking for and we will find the right puppy for you! About our Wonderful Labs.The Labrador Retriever loves to retrieve. Show a Lab to water and it will retrieve all day: balls, sticks, small boats and even children who might happen to go for a swim. Descended from dogs found in Newfoundland by explorers, fishermen and settlers, the Labrador Retriever evolved by natural selection. An excellent retriever of fish and game, these dogs have been known by several names, among them the Black Water Dog, the Lesser Newfoundland and the St. John's Dog. In the early s, the breed was introduced to Britain, where it was eventually crossed with other sporting breeds. The final product was the strong, sturdy, happy Labrador Retriever, which is America's most popular dog, thanks to its outgoing, eager-to-please and loving temperament. Males usually measure .Weight for males ranges from 65 to 80 pounds, with females averaging about 10 pounds less. The coat is short, dense and hard in colors of black, yellow, silver, charcoal, chocolate and many shades in the middle such as the white and champagne Lab. The AKC only allows black, chocolate and yellow to place in the show ring but that doesn't stop us from loving the other colors! A simple good brushing will remove dead hair and keep the coat shiny. A distinctive feature of the breed is the medium-long tail. Thick and round at the root and gradually tapering to the tip, it is often described as an otter tail. This tail can clear a coffee table in seconds! The Labrador is easy to train and excels as a field dog as well as obedience trials. Labs enjoy all outdoor exercise but are especially fond of swimming. They say this medium-sized, high-energy dog is best suited to a suburban or country home with a yard and a family that can provide it with the activity it loves--but that said, many city-dwelling Lab owners tell us it is the most wonderful "city" dog they have ever had! City, country or anywhere in between, the Lab is simply the best! At Happy Lab Kennels, we specialize in healthy, happy silver Labrador puppies, a variation of a chocolate lab with a gene mutation that creates their distinctive gray coat. Explore more about silver Labrador puppies for sale in NC and learn about the other great Labrador puppies we offer, including black, yellow and chocolate. The reason for this record is simple. Labs are great dogs. They have a wonderful temperament and are filled with Love to share. They seem to have one goal in mind, making Life long friends and memories. Labs are the perfect example of unconditional Love. While they do thrive on Love and attention, they require little maintenance. No long hair and curls to worry about and shedding is minimal. At Happy Lab Kennels, we focus on producing dogs that are healthy, friendly, gentle and full of love! While our dogs are mainly loving companions, they do come from hunting stock. With proper training, they would make a great hunting partner. About Happy Lab Kennels Our love for dogs has been growing for over 30 years We both grew up with a family dog, and knew we would always have a dog or two when we were older. Well, our love for dogs have been growing for over 30 years, with never having just one. Our dogs are a big part of our family. We have them spend time with us indoors, as well as, outdoors. We have them sleep inside when the weather is cold and to take a break on those very hot days. In our dog journeys, we have taken our dogs to field trials and have been active members of a K-9 Search and Rescue Team. What is A Silver Labrador? Loving companions, with the outgoing, friendly personalities Silver Labrador Puppies for Sale NC Silver labs were first created by a breeder in the early 80s and were officially recognized as a subset of the chocolate lab breed by the AKC in .While some think the unusual color comes from outside the breed, these dogs are verified by the AKC as percent Labrador retriever. Male labs grow to an average of .Our silver labrador puppies are bred as loving companions, with the outgoing, friendly personalities that have long made labs one of the most popular family dogs. These rare purebred, pedigreed pups are registered with the American Kennel Club. The Silver Labradors are registered as chocolates. Like other lab variations, silver labradors need lots of exercise. Get ready to play endless games of catch and take long walks around your neighborhood, where your pet is sure to make friends with other dogs and humans alike. These dogs respond well to training and easily adapt to new environments. They also tend to be great with children, although younger labs can be quite boisterous and may be excitable around those younger than 5. Our Other Labrador Retriever Colors Silver, chocolate, yellow, and black Labradors available for sale Black Labrador Puppies Black labs are sometimes considered the original Labrador puppies, brought to Newfoundland in the s. Because black is the dominant color gene for these dogs, they are more common than yellow, silver and chocolate labs. We offer an impressive selection of purebred chocolate labrador puppies for sale. This chocolate color comes from a gene variation on the classic black lab. Their golden hue occurs when both parents carry the gene for yellow fur rather than the dominant gene for black. Our love for dogs have been growing for over 30 years, with never having just one. Labrador Litters. Life Span Did You Know? One of the facts about Labrador Retrievers is that they come in many colors. Silver Labrador Retrievers, or Silver Labs, are relatively new compared to the other Lab coat colors. Contrary to their Yellow, Chocolate, and Black Lab cousins, which have recorded sightings from and before, Silver Labs have only cropped up since .There was some heated debate over their authenticity, as many breeders believed the silver tint appeared from outside the breed. A diluting factor in coat color dominance traits is responsible for the silver hue — something that is also present in Charcoal and Champagne Labs as well. At any rate, Silver Labrador Retrievers are regal, loyal, and friendly Labradors that have a lot of energy and a lot of love to give! Silver Labs are curious and playful dogs. Their curiosity will often get the better of them and they may wander off in search of adventure if they are off-leash. Labrador Retrievers are known for their gentle, friendly dispositions and good natures. Well-socialized Labs tend to get along with children, other dogs, and even other pets and strangers. Because of this they make the ideal family dog and are one of the kid-friendly dog breeds. Despite being one of the most active dog breeds , Silver Labrador Retrievers are highly adaptable. They prefer bigger spaces to stretch their legs and explore. As one of the sturdy dog breeds for outdoor adventures , they will often take an outside adventure over an inside one any day. But, they will also just be happy to be spending time with you. They do well in most climates, but are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Silver Labs are one of the most affectionate dog breeds. They are happiest when they are spending time with their favorite humans, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Silver Labrador Retriever can include elbow dysplasia , hip dysplasia, hereditary myopathy, heart disease, cataracts, and progressive retinal atrophy. A condition called exercise-induced collapse EIC has a genetic link and can occur in young adult Labradors. Good breeding practices and the health of the parents make a big difference in the health of Silver Lab puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large, deep-chested dog breed, the Silver Labrador Retriever is at a higher risk for bloat. Silver Labs are one of the smartest dog breeds. They pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. Despite their energy and getting bored easily, they are still a great fit for dog owners of any experience level. Labrador Retrievers are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. Silver Labrador Retrievers have short, water-resistant fur in two layers. Because of this dense double coat that protects them from the cold, and being one of the dog breeds that tend to love water , they may try to go for a swim regardless of the season. They shed year-round and more heavily twice a year when seasons change. Plus, your Lab will love spending the time with you. Trimming their nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Regularly checking ears and cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs , like daily brushing and cleanings at the vet when needed, is important to prevent the tartar buildup that causes painful dental diseases later in life. Silver Labrador Retrievers need a lot of daily activity to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for this dog. Although they are high-energy dogs, Silver Labs will tend to mellow out a little bit as they get older. Labrador Retrievers tend to have an extended puppyhood and maintain that puppy-like energy until they are around years old. Swimming is a great low-impact activity. Once your Lab puppy is cleared for more intense activity, you can try a lot of different activities with them. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Labs are also athletic and versatile dogs that tend to be a good fit for a wide range of activities. Fully-grown Silver Labrador Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Silver Labs generally live for years on average. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular dog breeds used as guide dogs, therapy dogs, and search and rescue dogs. They are also commonly found working as police or military dogs. They are even one of the best dog breeds for farms! Featured Silver Labrador Retriever Article. How the dilute gene works Labrador coat color is controlled by a set of genes. You can read about the way B genes and E genes influence coat color in this article on Labrador color inheritance. However, the silver color is controlled by a different gene, the D gene. The D gene acts as a type of switch. Some would like to see silver labradors banned In simple terms, genes come in pairs. Big D produces full strength coat color. Little d produces a dilute color. This means that a Labrador needs two copies of the dilute gene in order to have dilute fur. Only the third combination would produce a silver coat. Unless little d is paired with another little d, it will have no effect. In some breeds of dog, all individuals have two little d genes. Weimaraners, for example. And the recent appearance of the double little d gene in chocolate Labradors is what has enabled the silver Lab to appear on the scene. Where do silver Labs come from? Reports of silver Labradors seem to have first appeared in the United States in the s. Culo Silver Labs was one of the early kennels to produce this new silver color. You may be interested to read this report of an interview with the owner Dean Crist giving his account of the history of the silver Lab. Exactly how this new color came to be is a question that many people are asking, and arguing about. People want to know where silver Labradors came from and how they were created. In particular, they want to know how the double dd gene got into the purebred Labrador. How did the dilute gene get into Labradors? There are a number of options that can explain the appearance of a new gene in a purebred dog mixed breeding spontaneous mutation hidden genes The first and most obvious explanation is that at some point, an outcross occurred, between a Labrador and a breed of dog that carries the dilute gene. A Weimaraner for example 1 Mixed breeding Many people believe that the first silver Labs were crossbreeds. Not only is this theory plausible, there are clear motives for dog breeders to create a new color variation in an existing breed. I will let you be the judge, as there is no evidence at this time, one way or the other. However, it is interesting to note that Silver Labradors can be traced back to two breeders. An update to her original article, however, also notes that she previously claimed that Weimaraners were also bred in those same kennels, but found out that that fact was in doubt. Those in favor of the Weimaraner outcross theory often claim silvers have a houndy look about them. To be fair, this is true of many field-bred Labradors of any color. And most silver Labradors today look pretty much the same as any other Labrador Retriever — apart from the fact that they are silver. The cross-breeding theory has been a very popular one. But recently it has lost some credibility due to genetic testing of silver Labs which has failed to show a link to Weimaraners. This is another way that a rare or unusual characteristic can appear in a family of dogs that were previously unaffected by it. Partly because the other two explanations are both so plausible. For a mutation to be identical to a gene that already exists for an unusual coat color in another breed would be something of a coincidence. Many people feel that the spontaneous appearance of this dd dilution gene in the Labrador Retriever gene pool is, to say the least, unlikely. However, it cannot be entirely ruled out. This explanation for the appearance of the silver Labrador in the s is perhaps the most valid alternative to the cross breeding theory. We know that some genes are dominant over others. And can mask or hide them. We call the masked or hidden genes recessive. Many diseases are caused by recessive genes and only appear when the unfortunate individual inherits two copies Genes carrying rare diseases can remain hidden for decades, only to appear when closely related dogs are mated together. This happens more frequently when gene pools are small, as they are in our pedigree dog populations. Colors can be dominant or recessive too The B color gene that determines whether or not a Lab is basically black or brown, and favors black dogs. Brown is recessive and a Lab needs two copies of the little b brown gene to have a brown coat. Brown labradors only became common when breeders deliberately set about mating them to one another. Some people argue that the rare dilute gene has also been present in Labradors all along, and that it only appeared, as rare diseases sometimes do, when two closely related dogs were bred. The first Labradors were not registered by the AKC until .Before then there would have been regular outcrossing with other similar breeds. Including the Chesapeake Bay Retriever, a breed that does have the dilute gene. So it is entirely plausible that the little d gene passed from Chesapeakes into one or two Labs before the Labrador pedigree registers were closed and remained hidden in the breed only to reappear in the s when the demand for Chocolates was beginning to rise. Silver Lab temperament and training Whatever the origins of the silver Lab, the silver Labradors we see today are very much Labrador in both temperament and conformation. Training a silver Lab puppy is a huge amount of fun. It takes a little time and patience as Labs can be rather bitey when small and rather bouncy as they grow into teenagers. Silver Lab Poppy makes friends easily thanks to lots of positive experiences meeting all kinds of people. Photo credit — Alison Hanks.

For example, skin irritation, infections, bad smell, and discomfort. To keep this from happening, you should regularly brush and groom your Doodle. And the sooner you start, the better. Introduce them to brushing as soon as you bring them home. Starting out young will help your Labradoodle get used to brushing. In other words, whatever type of hair your Labradoodle has, brush them regularly. Also, make sure to read our article on dealing with Doodle hair matting. See Also: Click the image Tip: Labradoodle owners who suffer from dog allergies will very much benefit from regular brushing. Its wide base and fine, densely placed bristles help cover bigger areas of hair and work through the knots and tangles. A slicker brush is also great for deshedding. These types of brushes are also very convenient to use thanks to the handle and paddle placement. Bristle brushes are another great Labradoodle grooming tool that many owners swear by. Pin brushes look almost like your own hair brush. The pins are soft and help detangle knots. Pin brushes are great for a quick brushing after play-time outside. Combs are great for smaller knots and tangles that need special attention. Use the wide-tooth end of your comb to detangle bigger knots, and the fine-tooth end for smaller knots. Choosing the right type of brush for your Labradoodle largely depends on the type of coat your Doodle has. Labradoodles can have a wavy coat, curly coat, or anything that fits in between the two. If your Labradoodle sports longer hair, you should use a brush with longer bristles or pins to reach the hair from all lengths. Likewise, shorter hair requires a brush with shorter, more tightly placed bristles. If your Labradoodle is still a puppy, we recommend you use a brush specially designed for puppies. The best brush for Labradoodle puppy would be in an appropriate size and with very soft bristles. Typically this type of hair sheds the most and is considered the least allergy-friendly. Labradoodle with a straight coat. Usually it sheds very little. Doodle with a wavy coat. Doodle with a curly coat. A straight coat indicates that your Doodle has mostly inherited their coat type from the parent Labrador Retriever. Thanks to the wavy, silky and soft texture, Fleece Coats are usually very easy to brush. Bristle brushes work great on both wavy and straight dog hair. Slicker and pin brushes are also suitable for fleece coats. Labradoodle with a Fleece Coat Wool Coats that are inherited from the Poodle parent typically does not shed, but it is prone to knots and matting. Because of this, a wool coat tends to need more brushing than other Labradoodle coat types. Pin brushes, slicker brushes, and combs are amazing for brushing curly hair as they gently help detangle knotted hair. Naturally, choosing the correct tools might not be the easiest task. Here are the three highest rated grooming tools that Doodle owners rave about. Doodle owners say that this slicker brush gets the job done in half the time we can agree that it certainly speeds things up! Find the Best Deal:. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Australian Labradoodle Grooming Guide Choosing a Groomer Before you bring your Australian Labradoodle to the groomer, ask if they have had previous experience clipping Australian Labradoodles. Show your groomer some photos from our website so that they know exactly how you expect the clip to look. Labradoodle coats require a regular brushing and grooming routine. How often you have your Australian Labradoodle trimmed will depend on how fast their coat grows, your personal preferences in how long you leave them, how much maintenance you want to do at home, and how often you have them groomed professionally. You can expect to bathe and completely blow out their coat every weeks, and plan to have them trimmed approximately every weeks. For an adult Australian Labradoodle, you should allow on average, 60 minutes every two weeks for brushing time. If your Labradoodle is active in the water or hiking in nature areas, you may have to run a brush through them more often to remove debris or loosen hair clumping during the drying process post-swimming. Wait until your dog is dry, then run a slicker through their coat. Purchasing a small grooming table and arm, and training them to stand still during brushing and drying will save your back. But be warned that you need to always have a hand on your dog when they are on the grooming table or attached to a grooming arm. Never leave them or turn away or they can try to jump off the table and injure themselves. When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair by adding a metal greyhound comb. If loose hair is not removed near the skin, mats can begin to form. In separating your dogs coat with your hand, you can brush and comb all the way to the skin. Work backwards from the feet up to the body, and the tail to the head. Brush in the direction of the hair, but add small amounts of coat to each stroke. At approximately eight months old a puppy coat needs more frequent brushing during its changeover to the adult coat. Bathing: Australian Labradoodles need bathed and brushed out approximately once a month. Puppies can be bathed as needed. If you are going to bath your Australian Labradoodle at home, be sure to brush through the coat completely first. If you do it the other way around, any mats will get tighter when you get them wet. Also, watch that you do not pull on the mat while you are cutting it, and be aware of how closely the skin may be to your scissors. We also use a dematting tool to help break a mat into a smaller piece for easier removal. Then brush, comb, or gently work any mats out. Purchasing a commercial hair dryer is worth the investment and will speed up the drying process. Head: The lovable teddy bear look of your Australian Labradoodle is enjoyed every time you look at them, and every time you take them out and others look at them. No matter what length the body is trimmed, that adorable teddy bear face can make up the difference in winning hearts everywhere they go. A picture is worth a thousand words, so the photos and grooming card below coming soon will help to clarify the following worded instructions you will need to convey to your groomer to get exactly the look you want to see. It is best to print out the grooming card and take it with you at each visit to your groomer. This creates a more natural look and keeps the hair from poking at or covering their eyes. It also makes it easier to clean any matter out from the corner in the morning. Feet: Keeping your Labradoodles paws shaped nicely will help less water and debris attach to their feet as they are coming and going. We start trimming around their paws by around weeks of age to get them used to the action of having their feet picked up and worked with. You want to go around the bottom edge of their paw in a nice, rounded shape, snipping off longer hair so that it does not hit the ground. Your groomer can trim hair from the bottom of their feet with a clipper and a 30 blade. Nails should be trimmed regularly every weeks depending on wear. The hair under their tail should also be trimmed to keep the area clean. As the name suggests, this is a grooming brush made for Labradoodles. This is so popular because it was designed to tame the unique coat of a Labradoodle and does a great job of taming the hair; however, it needs to be kept. Even the pins on the brush are curved so that it works with the curls and does not tug in their hair. Detangling This slicker Doodle brush works well as a styling tool for your Labradoodle and as a detangling tool that can help get rid of tangles and matted hair. Pros It has curved pins, which are great for moving through even the most rigid mats and tangles. It comes with a flexible head that moves along with the curves of the body and hair of your dog to reduce snagging. The ergonomic design of the brush makes it easy to groom your dog without experiencing wrist fatigue. Cons The bristles and pins on this brush are white pointed and sharp, so you must be careful when using it or even storing it away from little children. The safety stop on these Dudi nail clippers is perfect for getting this job done without worry. Easy-to-use design The Dudi nail clippers are made in such a way that it is incredibly user-friendly. With a nonslip handle and an ergonomic design, you can easily use this tool at home to give your dog salon-like results. Durable materials The build of this nail clipper is made with highly durable materials like the stainless steel blade, which is razor sharp and will last you a lifetime. It even comes with industry-grade rubber handles, giving you a tight grip and comfort when using the tool. Pros It comes with a child safety lock which keeps curious kids out of trouble It has a safety block for stopping excess nail clipping It has nonslip handles, so you get a good grip when using this tool Cons Sometimes the locking mechanism might come loose when using the tool, so you may have to keep locking it in place when using the product. Best Features Double-sided This detangling tool comes with two sides. Both sides of the comb have different pins to help with all kinds of dematting and detangling work. Make use of each side to get the most out of your purchase. Sharp teeth The teeth on both sides of this dematting tool are very sharp. It helps comb through the most rigid mats and tangles without the fear of hurting your furry friend. Pros It is a double-sided, double-functioning tool clubbed into one. It comes with a gel handle to give more comfort to the user It is made with industry-grade durable materials Cons The gel handles can sometimes leak if there happens to be a tear from gripping it too right. This leaves an unpleasant and sticky situation for the handler. It consists of some of the most needed tools like a detangling comb, a de-shedding comb, a bristle, and a slicker brush, among many others. Best Features 6 functions in one This set of 6 dog brushes comes in for all grooming needs. Ideal for all kinds of coats Since the set comes with different brushes and bristle sizes and shapes, you can easily use this set to groom all pets. Ball pin and bristle combo brush This combo brush is excellent for cutting your grooming session short and achieving two results with just one product. It can be used for different-sized dogs. It is a 5-in-one set of scissors that can be used for many functions when grooming your Doodle. Best Features Rounded tips Although razor sharp, these tools come with rounded edges to ensure maximum safety when using the scissors. Different kinds of scissors The kit comes complete with curved, straight, and thinning scissors. It also has a grooming brush that can help detangle hair. Durable materials All the tools on this set are made of high-quality stainless steel, so you are assured of its durability and functioning. Each of the scissors in the set is coated with titanium, giving it its signature sharp edges. Pros It is designed to adapt to the curves and grip of your hand for ergonomic support. It comes with a day refund policy. It has a rubber bumper to prevent accidents from operating the tools. However, you can remove the grip and get a better fit in these areas. First, it is explicitly made for Doodles, so you can rest assured that the tool will work as advertised. It also comes from a trusted brand that many professionals recommend. The Doodle brush is impressive for its unique features that make it stand out from other brands in the market. They are also very reliable and durable, so it is an excellent investment for anyone planning to buy a grooming brush for your Labradoodle. The build is exceptionally flexible, so you never have to worry about the position of your hand or the brush when grooming your dog. Buyers Guide There are so many types of dog tools available for grooming your pooches. There are so many that deciding which products are the best or must-haves on your list can be a bit tiresome. Because of this, we have listed a few crucial factors in determining which tools are the best for grooming your Labradoodle. First of all, you have to consider what your pet needs. Does it need a detangling brush to remove tangles in the fur? Or does your pet need a good trimmer and scissors? Perhaps you need something to help the shedding process. Consider all these questions before you decide what kind of product you want to buy for your Doodle. Does your Doodle have a long coat or an undercoat that needs grooming? Answering these questions will determine what type of comb will suit your Doodle the best. There are many kinds of brushes like a metal comb, rake, or slicker brush. Whatever your preferences are, you need to know before you buy a pair of scissors. Some scissors are meant solely for thinning the hair, others are made to cut the curves, and others for the straight edges. Is It Durable? Whatever products you buy, you have to ensure that each item is durable and worth the money you spend. It would help if you groomed your Doodle at least once every weeks. Experts advise that you wait a minimum of 6 weeks before you give your puppy its first grooming session. Wait until there are adults and their hair grows more before you start a full groom. The minimum should be about a half inch of hair. Bottom Line Labradoodles are accessible and friendly, but maintaining their hair is one of the most tedious tasks for any pet parent. But it is just as essential, so you must have all the right equipment if you are grooming your doodle at home. Hopefully, the article has helped you determine the top products you need to buy to give your doodle salon-like looks from home. Make sure that you check all the necessary sectors before you go ahead with a purchase. 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. Sadly, that comes at a price, meaning they need more frequent grooming to stay presentable and stop their fur from becoming unkempt. To help you choose the right brush, you need to consider coat length, coat type, and age. Check out how these affect your brush browsing below. Coat Length Shorter-haired Labradoodles can get away with a softer brush or shallow slicker brush, but longer-haired Doodles will need a slicker brush with longer bristles. Inspect brushes to get an idea of their bristle length before buying, and keep the width in mind—shaggier Labradoodles need wider bristles, while shorter coats are fine with densely packed bristles. Coat Type Your Doodle is double-coated , meaning they have two types of hair. One is softer and the other is coarser. Because of their coats, it tends to tangle and matt easily. Often, we recommend using a de-matting rake as well as a regular brush. Then, you should go over it with a standard brush with softer bristles to remove loose hair and distribute their natural oils, leading to a shinier, healthier coat overall. Age Puppies have very sensitive skin, so you may want to go with a double-sided brush or a slicker brush with plastic-coated pins. Their coat may change by the time they reach adulthood, so keep an eye on their coat to see if you need to change up your grooming tools. Establish a routine that you will follow through with or you will end up with a puppy with nails that may rip or cause problems walking properly, ears that have infections, and coats that are severely matted to the skin and cause severe discomfort for your dog. These are the areas that are most prone to matting. Part the hair and brush from the base of the coat in small sections. Many people only brush the surface of the coat and do not realize the dog is matting very badly next to the skin. Remember, if you cannot maintain basic brushing and grooming on your own, then you will need to budget for using a professional groomer. You should still try to clip nails and clean ears weekly at home, and give your dog a brushing at least once a week. BATHING When you groom your puppy or dog, you will want them to have a clean coat so your scissors and clipper blades work efficiently and do not wear down more quickly. Here are some general, simple tips for basic labradoodle grooming when doing your doodle at home. Eyes: Your Labradoodle should always be able to see well and not have hair hanging and restricting vision or growing up and into the eyes from the bridge of the nose! Using blunt tipped scissors, trim the hair over the bridge of nose and in between eyes so vision is not obstructed. Hair that hangs over the eyes should be trimmed neatly across the brow blending down into the sides of the face. If your dog gets eye gunk, use eye wipes every few days to keep them clean. A Labradoodle with long ear hair does NOT look like the standard for the Labradoodle, it looks more like a Cocker spaniel. Shape the ears and blend hair neatly into the top of the head. This will help prevent infections. You can use a clipper with 10 blade for a good length in this area. If the canal has a lot of hair inside, you will need to pluck it out in very small amounts to prevent irritation. Clean ear canal with solution and then use ear powder to eliminate moisture. Paws: Trim paws in a nicely rounded shape so that hair does not hang over the paw and cannot be walked on. Completely clip hair from in between pads on bottom of feet. This is most easily done with an electric clipper and a 30 blade. Keeping the paws shaped nicely will aid in less debris attaching to feet when outside and being drug into your home. Long muzzle hair results in beards that drip with water every time your dog gets a drink. The hair on the sides of the muzzle should be even with the bottom of the lower jaw. This is an area of the body we frequently see with matting. Hair is left to grow and grow and GROW and you not realize it is severely matting close to the tail. This helps prevent matting and urine or feces from building up on the coat when your dog uses the bathroom. Body: If you like a longer coat, more brushing and maintenance will be required. Here are a couple examples of shorter cuts that most find easy to maintain. Share this: Click to share on Pinterest Opens in new window Newsletter Subscribe to Spring Creek's monthly newsletter for training tips, recipes, dog health care, seasonal tips, grooming advice, behavioral help, and more! Just enter your email address and sit back and enjoy our monthly news! Email address: Leave this field empty if you're human: Spring Creek Labradoodles is an Oregon Labradoodle breeder, and one of the first in the U.

Below are some of the frequently asked questions by Poodle lovers! What is the recommended amount of food for a Poodle? It depends on how active your Poodle is. A very busy poodle will require more food than a sedentary poodle. For example, puppies need more calories than adult dogs, and elderly dogs need fewer calories than adult dogs. The best way to determine how much food your dog needs is to feed them a diet based on their age, weight, and activity level. Consult with your veterinarian if you have any questions about how much food to feed your Poodle. Can my Poodle be fed dry dog food kibble instead of wet food? There is no definitive answer to this question. Some people believe that dry food is better for dogs because it helps keep their teeth clean, while others believe that wet food is better because it contains more nutrients. Ultimately, the best diet for your Poodle will depend on his individual needs and preferences. There are pros and cons to both dry dog food kibble and wet dog food. Ultimately, the best food for your Poodle depends on his specific dietary needs and preferences. It can also be easier to portion control because the kibble can be weighed or measured. Wet dog food is usually more nutritious than dry dog food since it contains more fresh ingredients, and it can be a good choice if your Poodle has difficulty chewing or swallowing. Can poodle puppies eat dry dog food? Yes, dry dog food is safe for poodle puppies. As long as the food is specifically meant for puppies, it will provide them with all the necessary nutrients to grow and develop properly. Make sure to choose a food high in protein and low in carbohydrates, as puppies are naturally carnivores and need more protein than adult dogs. The majority of puppies have little trouble chewing dry dog food. However, you can soften the kibble by adding a little water or wetting it if they do. Until then, continue providing whatever diet is appropriate for his age and weight. If my Poodle has difficulty chewing, what should I do? You can do a few things if your Poodle seems to have trouble chewing. One option is to feed your dog softer foods, like canned food or boiled chicken. You can also purchase a special diet for dogs with dental problems. Finally, you can ask your veterinarian about giving your dog prescription toothpaste or chew toys designed to help clean their teeth. Can my Poodle eat grains? Grains are a good source of carbohydrates, proteins, and fiber, but they also contain gluten which can be hard for some dogs to digest. In addition, dogs that are allergic to grains will often have skin problems, digestive issues, and excessive shedding. Can I feed leftovers to my Poodle? Leftovers can make a nutritious meal for your Poodle if they are not too fatty or high in salt. Be sure to avoid giving them any toxic food to dogs, such as chocolate, grapes, or onions. You can also give them cooked meat, rice, and vegetables. A balanced diet is essential for keeping your Poodle healthy and happy. Feeding your poodle leftovers can also be unhealthy, as they may not be getting the balanced diet they need. Instead, try to give your Poodle specifically-made dog food tailored to their nutritional needs. This will help keep them healthy and prevent any weight problems from developing. Do I have any options if my Poodle is a fussy eater? You can do a few things to get your Poodle to eat. One is to try different types of food. Sometimes, all it takes is a change in diet to get a dog to start eating again. You can also try mixing wet and dry food or warming up the food slightly before serving it. If your Poodle is particularly fussy, you may have to resort to hand-feeding her small meals several times a day until she starts eating on her own again. What foods are toxic to poodles? Yes, there are a few foods that are toxic to poodles. Chocolate, raisins, garlic, and the artificial sweetener xylitol pose a threat to poodles. Cavities and gum disease are common problems in dogs, and they can cause a lot of pain and discomfort for your pet. The vet will be able to diagnose the problem and recommend treatment. In many cases, cavities can be treated with antibiotics or surgery, and gum disease can be treated with a special diet or surgery. Your Poodle may be having trouble chewing because its teeth are not clean. You might also want to try giving your poodle rawhide bones or chew toys to help keep its teeth healthy and clean. What other foods should poodles never eat? Yes, there are other foods that poodles should never eat. Other dangerous foods for poodles include grapes, raisins, chocolate, and onions. Why not give my Poodle those treats that look like bacon, hot dogs, and pork chops? Poodles are prone to obesity, and these treats are high in fat and calories. Stick to crunchy treats that are low in fat and calories instead. My dog eats the grass in my yard and other plants. How can I prevent this? However, this has yet to be proven. Is fiber necessary for poodles? Yes, poodles need fiber. A high-fiber diet will help keep their bowels regular and help minimize the risk of constipation. Is a low-fat diet for my Poodle appropriate? Dogs have higher fat, and dietary requirements than humans and do not often suffer from the same obesity-related health issues that humans do. A low-fat diet would be dangerous for your Poodle and could lead to deficiencies in essential fatty acids. Feed your dog a balanced diet appropriate for their breed and age, and make sure they get plenty of exercise. Could I feed my Poodle raw foods? There are pros and cons to a raw foods diet for your Poodle. On the one hand, a raw foods diet can be healthier for your dog because it is more natural and closer to what they eat in the wild. However, on the other hand, it can be more expensive and time-consuming to prepare than a traditional kibble diet. If you consider switching your dog to a raw foods diet, it is important to consult with a veterinarian or animal nutritionist to ensure that your pup is getting all of the nutrients they need. A raw foods diet should always include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables and high-quality protein sources like meat, poultry, fish, and eggs. Is frozen raw food a good option for poodles? Yes, I do recommend frozen raw foods for poodles. I recommend all dogs eat a diet of at least some frozen raw food. Frozen raw food is the healthiest type of diet you can feed your dog. It contains all the nutrients and enzymes your dog needs to stay healthy and strong. Plus, feeding your dog frozen raw food can help protect them against many common health problems, including allergies, skin problems, weight gain, diabetes, and cancer. Is it okay to feed eggs to my Poodle? How about eggshells? You can feed eggs to your Poodle, but you should take care not to give them too many eggshells. Eggshells are a great source of calcium, but if your dog eats too many, they could end up with an eggshell calcium overdose. A safe dose for a healthy poodle is about 5 grams of eggshells per day. Poodles, do they need supplements? Yes, Poodles do need supplements, and there are a few are particularly beneficial for joint and bone growth. Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate are two of the most popular supplements for joint health, and they can help reduce inflammation and improve joint function. Omega-3 fatty acids are also important for joint health, as they can help reduce stiffness and pain. Vitamin D is another important supplement for Poodles, as it helps to maintain bone health and prevent osteoporosis. What man-made food can Poodles eat? Raw and cooked carrots are safe for your dog, as are cooked eggs, salmon, and blueberries. However, be sure to avoid grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and anything else that might be harmful to your pup. Conclusion — Final Verdict! Now that you know a little more about the best dog food for Poodles, we hope you feel confident in your ability to choose the right food for your pup. We wish you and your pup all the best in finding the perfect diet! Related Links. We recommend that you keep your pet in ideal body condition and not allow them to become overweight. The amount of food your pet needs can vary based on age, activity level or other food and treats given, so be sure to work with your veterinarian to determine an appropriate weight for your pet, and to make any necessary adjustments to their feeding. Information Ingredients Guaranteed Analysis Royal Canin knows what makes your Poodle puppy magnificent is in the details. With both brains and beauty, Poodles are highly intelligent and active little dogs with distinctive curly coats. They can benefit from the right growth formula for immune system support, skin and coat health, and digestive care during the puppy stage. Royal Canin Poodle dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your purebred Poodle puppy. Whether you have a Miniature Poodle or Toy Poodle, this exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Poodle puppy with specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants and vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their bodies growing strong. And high-quality proteins and prebiotics promote healthy digestion and optimal stool quality. Once your Poodle is over 10 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Poodle Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Not satisfied? Then neither are we. Just contact us for more details. Feeding a Poodle Overview Ensuring that your Poodle is on a well-balanced diet is one of the most important elements to keeping your canine family member healthy, both now and into the future. This section will cover all Poodle feeding guidelines including how often to feed a Poodle, serving sizes, dry vs wet, grain vs grain-free, and top recommended kibble. Don't need all of the details and just want to know which brands are recommended? New Puppies - The Importance of Gradually Switching Foods Before you even bring your Poodle home, it is very important to discuss with the breeder or shelter worker if you are adopting a rescue exactly which brand of food they have been feeding to your Poodle. A fast change in food can cause upset stomach and digestive problems. Breeders and shelters are buying food in bulk and have to feed many dogs which is a factor in which brand they choose; so there is a good chance that you will want to offer your Poodle something different. Have both the current food and the new food on hand and make a gradual switch over the course of 3 weeks. Though you will be leaving food out at all times, it is important that the food is fresh. Do not just top it off throughout the day, rinse and clean the bowl as necessary so that old food is not stuck at the bottom of the dish. Puppy: Starting at just about the 3 month mark, Poodles of all varieties should be eating 3 meals per day, plus snacks. Adult: When a pup matures into an adult, this does not necessarily mean that they should suddenly be given only one meal a day. Smaller dogs such as Toy Poodles and Miniatures often do best with 2 or even 3 meals per day. Standards have a bit more tolerance to a single dinnertime feeding, however many can also benefit from having food split up into two servings. Several snacks can be given in between meals and this is particularly helpful is a Poodle is a fast eater. How Much to Feed a Poodle Exact serving size varies quite a bit depending on the type of food. There is a big difference in calories between wet vs dry and low quality vs high quality. And, the amount of food that a Poodle should be eating depends on the dog's age, activity level, individual metabolism, and health status. Even the weather can play a role since dogs tend to eat a bit more in the winter and a bit less in the summer. In regard to calorie requirements, puppies need more calories per pound than their adult counterparts, approximately 40 to 55 calories per pound, daily, compared to adult dogs that need about 35 to 45 calories per pound, daily. S enior Poodles typically have slower metabolisms and reduced mobility and therefore usually require slightly fewer calories, in the 40 calorie per pound range. If you are feeding your Poodle a commercial food, follow the suggested feeding guidelines. These are usually pretty spot-on. Since these are based on both age and weight, do not estimate how much your Poodle weighs but rather know what this is within a pound or two. If you are feeding your Poodle homemade food, a rough guideline for serving size is 1 ounce of food for each 1 pound of body weight, daily. As you can imagine, this can vary quite a bit depending on the exact ingredients. Using the 1 to 1 rule as a starting point, what your Poodle consumes within 15 minutes is usually a good amount for each meal. Wet vs Dry If a Poodle had their way, most would opt for wet food. However, dry food is recommended since this is much better for the gums and teeth. In addition, dry kibble tends to be easier on the stomach and intestines and a diet of all wet canned food can lead to runny stools. Grain vs Grain-free Until relatively recently, there was not much debate on this subject; if a dog tended to have gastrointestinal or allergy issues when on a diet with grains, they were switched to a grain-free recipe. However, this changed when it was discovered that several dogs that were breeds not prone to dilated cardiomyopathy developed that particular heart disease and also happened to be fed grain-free kibble. Lots of pet parents immediately thought that they needed to change their dogs back to grains; however, many more studies need to be done. In fact, the most recent update from the Veterinary Medical Center at Tufts University suggests that 'grain-free' alone may not be the issue at play. For now, it is theorized that a certain diet dubbed a BEG diet may be to blame. This stands for boutique small local brands with exotic meats non-traditional meats like alligator, bison, ostrich, venison, and kangaroo and grain-free along with peas, legumes, or potatoes as one of the top 5 ingredients. Currently there are no recalls of grain-free dog food brands and the FDA is still investigating any possible links including the BEG theory. If your Poodle does not do well with any grains at all, you may wish to stick to a brand that has traditional meats like chicken, turkey, or beef or a fish-based recipes. And, if you are not sure about which grains your Poodle may do okay with, you may wish to opt for wholesome non-wheat and non-gluten grains like rice brown or white , oatmeal, quinoa which is technically a seed. Exact recommendations for the best foods include both grain and grain-free options. Elements to Keep in Mind When Choosing Food for Your Poodle What to avoid: It's no wonder that pet parents have a difficult time navigating the many choices of dog foods in their quest to find the best brand to give their Poodle, there are a lot of ingredients to avoid: Artificial flavoring like MSG which can cause terrible allergic reactions. Artificial coloring. Some of the worst are Yellow 5, Red 40, Blue 2, and Yellow 6 which are linked to very serious issues including neurological and behavioral issues like insomnia and hyperactivity and serious health issues including some cancers. Chemical preservatives. This can be tricky to avoid since these do not always need to be labeled; if these are added to protect 'protein meals' in low levels, you'll never see it listed as an ingredient. These are meats and animal parts deemed unfit for human consumption. Examples are lungs, spleen, spinal tissue, genitals, hooves, beaks, intestines, and more. Generic meats or oils. This can, by law, be any species of animal whatsoever and are usually 4-D animal parts: Sourced from dead, diseased, dying, or disabled zoo animals, farm animals, or even roadkill. These are very common in cheaper subpar brands and are inexpensive ingredients that are added only to plump up the food but offer little to no nutritional value. Examples of fillers include corn, soy, wheat middlings, peanut hulls, oat husks, and cereal grains. Ingestion of fillers is a contributing factor in coprophagia eating feces and is linked to malnutrition. High grain count. Though some wholesome grains may be desired next section , high levels of wheat or gluten can cause upset stomach issues and allergies. What to look for: Knowing what to avoid can help you identify some of the better brands though exact recommendations are below. This means zero artificial additives. Natural preservatives. Wholesome ingredients. For meats and proteins this includes chicken, turkey, duck, lamb, rabbit, beef, and many types of fish including whitefish, haddock, salmon, and cod. You'll also want your Poodle to have some vegetables and fruits which provide vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Zero fillers. Every ingredient should serve the purpose of providing nutrients and never added simply to bulk up the recipe. The right balance of healthy grains. Though some Poodles will need to avoid all grains, most do very well with select non-wheat, non-gluten options including oatmeal, quinoa, and rice. Added extras. Next, we'll cover exact recommendations that fit all of the above criteria. Best Food for Poodles: Recommended Brands Please note that if you have not yet read ' Grain vs Grain-free ' section, you may wish to do so before continuing. Top recommend food with grains: 1. Wellness Complete Health Natural Dry. For larger miniatures and standards, you'll want to opt for their regular Complete Health. There are also puppy, adult, and senior formulas. All of these have no wheat, corn or other fillers, artificial coloring or flavoring, soy, meat by-products, or chemical preservatives, so you can feel very confident that your filling your Poodle's bowl with truly wholesome, healthy food. These recipes also have excellent levels of omega-3 fatty acids. And, this is made in the USA. Halo Natural Holisitc Dog Food. This top brand has found its niche by offering a purely holistic, organic recipe with non-GMO veggies and fruits and meats with no antibiotics, no hormones, and no factory farming. The protein base is chicken and liver, the two grains in this are oats and barley, and vegetables and fruits include peas, blueberries, cranberries, carrots, and sweet potato. All other ingredients are to naturally preserve the kibble or are vitamins and minerals. This particular recipe is for small breeds, however there is also an original for larger dogs. Halo is made in the USA. Top recommended food without grains: 1. Merrick is a great brand which offers this recipe for small breeds, like toy Poodles and another option for larger dogs which would include miniatures and standards. Protein bases include Texas beef, lamb, chicken, and salmon. There is no corn or other fillers, wheat, gluten, artificial additives, or chemical preservatives. And, there are excellent levels of omega-3 and both pre and probiotics. Merrick is also made in the USA. The CORE formula from Wellness is, by far, one of the very best grain-free foods on the market today. It hits very single checkbox of what you are ideally looking for in a food for your Poodle and it has some superior extras. There are excellent levels of glucosamine and chondroitin, omega fatty acids, and antioxidants. There is both a small breed formula and an original formula for minis and standards as well as puppy recipes and a reduced fat option. Wellness is made in the USA. What to Feed Your Poodle if Home Cooking You will want to have a mix of protein, healthy grains, vegetables and fruits. Proteins can include beef, chicken, turkey, lamb, veal, and fish cod, flounder, salmon, whitefish. Vegetables can include sugar snap peas, green beans, lima beans, spinach, peas, zucchini, carrots, sweet potato, and regular potato. Fruits can include blueberries, strawberries, raspberries, apple, and pear. Extras can include eggs, salmon oil, extra virgin olive oil, certain cheese with low levels of lactose Colby, Monterey Jack, Swiss cheese, and cottage cheese and plain whole white yogurt. Note that if you home cook, you will want to include a daily vitamin and mineral since it is near impossible for any combination of foods to offer a dog every nutrient that they need. Snacks Snacks and treats are also an important part of a dog's diet. Dry treats often labeled as baked or crunchy are best to tide over the appetite in between meals. Moist or chewy treats are best when used as training rewards and to reinforce good behavior. Rapid ingestion of food can lead to gas, vomiting, or upset stomach and is linked to killer bloat. Types of Nuts that a Poodle Can Eat - If you are snacking away on some nuts and want to share them with your Poodle, see which ones are safe and which are not. Poodle Begging Behavior - Giving into begging for table scraps or extra snacks contributes to this bad habit. See how to react if your Poodle won't stop begging. Overly Picky Poodles - Read how to address finicky eaters to make mealtime less stressful for both of you. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet.

Often breeders recognize the popularity of these unique bi- and tri-color patterns and will charge a higher price for them. What is the lifespan of a Springerdoodle? The average lifespan of a Springerdoodle is years. How much exercise does a Springerdoodle need? Springerdoodles are a very active breed and will need minutes of daily exercise to live a happy, healthy life. This figure can range slightly depending on the size, age, and personality of your dog. This breed is not recommended for those who live a sedentary lifestyle. Keep in mind that a standard Springerdoodle will typically need more exercise than a mini Springerdoodle based on size alone. To avoid damaging their developing bones and joints, be careful not to over-exercise your puppy. As a rule of thumb, a Springerdoodle puppy should get about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day. Once they are fully grown at months, your Sproodle is ready for their full minutes of exercise. Are Sproodles good apartment dogs? Sproodles are not an ideal breed for those who live in an apartment or small house. This breed will be much happier with more space, particularly if you have a large, fenced backyard… and maybe even a doggie door! Mini Springerdoodles need slightly less exercise and are more likely to fit within the weight limits that many apartment buildings have. Is the Sproodle a healthy breed? Springerdoodles are generally considered to be a healthy breed. While mixed breeds tend to be healthier overall than purebred dogs, they are still susceptible to health issues from both parent breeds. Some common illnesses seen in the English Springer Spaniel Poodle mix include elbow dysplasia, otitis externa, progressive retinal atrophy, and epilepsy to name a few. One way to protect your Springerdoodle from accidents and illnesses is to enroll them in a quality pet insurance plan as early in their life as possible. I personally have my dog covered with Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Are Springerdoodles easy to train? The cross between two very intelligent breeds, Sproodles tend to be smart and easy to train. Springer Spaniels can be seen competing in hunting, agility, and obedience tests. Poodles are often selected to be highly-trained service animals. Are Springerdoodles good with kids? Springerdoodles, in general, tend to be good with kids of all ages. English Springer Spaniels have an average tolerance of kids while Poodles are excellent with them. Crossing these two breeds results in a dog that will likely have a good relationship with the children in your family! Photo courtesy of Pat Patterson. Are Springerdoodles good with other pets? Springerdoodles tend to get along with other dogs fine but may not do well in families that have a cat. While the personality of every dog is different, the natural prey drive of the Springer Spaniel breed can be tough to overcome. Are Sproodles aggressive? Overall, Sproodles are not an aggressive breed. However, this is extremely rare overall. Do Springerdoodles bark a lot? Springerdoodles are average barkers and are not overly quiet or overly vocal. Do Sproodles make good watch dogs? Sproodles tend to make average watch dogs. Photo courtesy of Ruth Prideaux. Where can I find a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix? Finding a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix can be a challenge seeing as how rare this breed is. To learn how to identify a good breeder while avoiding puppy mills and backyard breeders, check out our article here! Pet stores are best to avoid. Not only will you pay a much higher price, but many people question the ethical standards of the breeders they source their puppies from. Finally, you can choose to rescue a Springer Spaniel Poodle mix from a shelter! How much do Springerdoodles cost? Mini Springerdoodles and puppies with more sophisticated color patterns will usually fall on the higher end of this range. More from Popular Doodle.Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Cockapoos have an infectious zest for life that spreads to everyone around them, that essential joie de vivre that makes every day a celebration. These guys are just plain happy to be alive. The true Cockapoo been bred with the goal of a healthy, hypoallergenic dog with a good temperament. When the cross works as intended, you get the intelligence and spirit of the Poodle with the sturdiness and field spirit of the Cocker. Efforts have been made over the last decade to clearly separate Cockapoos and Spoodles into two different hybrids, and some success has been achieved. If the type of Cocker involved is important to you, be sure to ask. Cockapoo Highlights 1. Friendly and Affectionate: Cockapoos are known for their friendly and loving nature, making them excellent companions. Hypoallergenic Coat: Many Cockapoos have hypoallergenic or low-shedding coats, which can be a great choice for allergy sufferers. Intelligent and Trainable: They are intelligent dogs and are usually easy to train, responding well to positive reinforcement methods. Adaptable: Cockapoos can adapt to various living environments, including apartments, as long as they receive enough exercise and attention. Good with Families: They are generally good with children and other pets, making them great family dogs. Long Lifespan: Cockapoos often have a longer lifespan compared to some other breeds, living 12 to 15 years or more with proper care. Moderate Exercise Needs: While they enjoy playtime and walks, they are not overly hyperactive, making them suitable for families with varying activity levels. Unique Coat Variety: Their coat can vary from curly to wavy and comes in a range of colors and patterns, adding to their charm. Grooming Requirements: Regular grooming is necessary to keep their coat in good condition and prevent matting. Health Considerations: Like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues, so regular veterinary care is essential to maintain their well-being. Cockapoo History When it comes to designer dogs, the Cockapoo is an old hybrid, popular since the s. The first breeding may have been accidental, but the happy result was a litter of puppies who were intelligent, almost odorless, had the low-shedding Poodle coat, and showed the easygoing and loving nature of the Cocker Spaniel. These puppies were well received, and the Cockapoo line began. Some efforts are being made today to establish breed standards and start the Cockapoo on the hard road of becoming a true breed, one producing offspring with consistent traits. Once the Cockapoo became more well-known, he only grew in popularity. The Cockapoo Club of America formed in and, in an effort to create breeding consistency, it created a breed standard. This group formed in and provides certification for Cockapoos who are the results of first- through sixth-generation breedings. The Toy Cockapoo can reach 10 inches in height but has a sturdier build, the bigger ones tipping the scales at just under 12 pounds. The Miniature Cockapoo weighs 13 to 18 pounds and ranges between 11 and 14 inches high. The Standard or Maxi Cockapoo should weigh more than 19 pounds and be at least 15 inches in height. Cockapoo Personality Intelligent and easy to please, the Cockapoo was established as a companion dog. He has an outgoing nature and usually gets along with everyone. Depending on his temperament, he can be active or he can simply enjoy snuggling up on the couch with you. He has the intelligence of his Poodle forebears but also the sweet disposition of his Cocker Spaniel ancestry. Socialization helps ensure that your Cockapoo puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. He prefers, always, to be with his family and can suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for too long. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a Cockapoo; he can achieve high levels of obedience with time and patience. However, there is a general misconception that hybrid vigor automatically applies to mixed breeds. Cataracts : Cataracts cause opacity on the lens of the eye, resulting in poor vision. Cataracts usually occur in old age and sometimes can be surgically removed to improve vision. Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this is a common problem in small dogs. The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, although many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Allergies : Allergies are a common ailment in dogs, and the Cockapoo is no exception. Treatment varies according to the cause and may include dietary restrictions, medications, and environmental changes. Liver Disease : This condition is becoming more prevalent in Cocker Spaniels in two forms: chronic active hepatitis and copper toxicosis poisoning. Both conditions may or may not be genetic; at this point no one is certain. Ear Infections : These afflictions may plague the Cockapoo because of his floppy Cocker ears, which can trap moisture, dirt, and debris. Ask your veterinarian about appropriate ear care products. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Health clearances are not issued to dogs younger than 2 years of age. They enjoy a good walk — and need it to keep them from becoming overweight. The best type of exercise, though, is a good play session in the backyard. Expect him to need at least 15 minutes of exercise every day. The Cockapoo is an adaptable breed. He can live in an apartment, though the smaller varieties seem to do better there than do the Maxi or Standard Cockapoos. They thrive when with their family and can suffer from separation anxiety when left for long periods of time — and that can lead to excessive barking and to destructive behavior. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will also help your Cockapoo accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Keep your Cockapoo in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Cockapoo, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Cockapoos can be found in all the colors and color combinations that are seen in both Cocker Spaniels and Poodles — a more rich variety of coat colors than is usual in many other breeds. The Cockapoo is usually seen au naturel, but many people like to clip the coat. However, it should only be trimmed to two to three inches in length. The coat should be brushed daily. To retain coat oils and health, he only need be bathed when absolutely necessary. Because his floppy Cocker ears block air circulation, the ears must be checked and cleaned weekly to prevent ear infections. Gently wipe out the ear — only the part you can see! Your Cockapoo may have an ear infection if the inside of the ear smells bad, looks red or seems tender, or he frequently shakes his head or scratches at his ear. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Dog toenails have blood vessels in them, and if you cut too far you can cause bleeding — and your dog may not cooperate the next time he sees the nail clippers come out. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Cockapoo Children And Other Pets The Cockapoo does well with youngsters , although he generally prefers homes with older, more considerate children. He also gets along with other dogs and pets. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Cockapoo Rescue Groups Cockapoos are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. Cockapoo Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have both health and behavioral issues. More Info For You. This small to medium sized dog is very active, who loves to be outside. However, they are also friendly and caring, liking just as much to curl up on your lap and to watch TV with you! These dogs can be used as working dogs such as guide dogs, although they were originally intended to be companions, especially for those with allergies who needed a dog with a low-shedding coat. Breeders must follow the rules when producing puppies to make sure they stay in line with the breed standard. To get a better understanding of where these dogs came from, we can take a look at the origins of their parent breeds. The Poodle originated from the French and German border in the 15th and 16th century and was associated with the upper class. Because they are excellent water dogs, they were used to hunt water-fowl. Later on, because of their adorable look, these pups became a very popular dog. The Toy Poodle was bred from the Standard Poodle by choosing the smallest pup from each litter and breeding with them. They were first seen in America in the 20th century. Cocker Spaniels first came to the US on the Mayflower in the 17th century. They were registered in and the popularity of the Cocker Spaniel grew significantly during the s and s. The American Cocker Spaniel has a smaller prey-drive than the English Cocker Spaniel, which makes them better family pets. Characteristics Of The Cockapoo Although there is a breed standard for the Cockapoo, you still cannot be sure what traits you are going to get in a litter of Cockapoo puppies. These dogs can come in a range of colors and patterns and it all depends on which parent they take after more. A Cockapoo puppy is normally born in litter sizes of four to eight pups. Because the Toy Poodle is the smallest size of all dog breeds, if you are crossing a Cocker Spaniel with one then the Toy will always be the father to prevent any complications. However, if the Poodle is a Miniature size, it does not matter whether they or the Cocker Spaniel are the mother because they are similar in size. Cockapoos are popular dogs and this means that they can have a hefty price tag. Always ensure that you are buying from a reputable breeder. Appearance The Cockapoo has a distinct look due to their adorable teddy-bear appearance! These dogs are classed as small-medium sized dogs, although their size will largely depend on whether they are bred from a Toy or Miniature Poodle. The Cockapoo is a well proportioned dog that is athletic and sturdy. Their heads are round and their eyes should be brown with a black nose. If they have a brown nose then their eyes should be black and if they have a lighter nose then they will have green or hazel eyes. Their ears hang down, too, giving them a super cute look! Coat There are three different coat types that the Cockapoo could inherit. Again, this depends on which parent they take after more. They can have a tight curly coat, a medium curl or a flat coat. All of the coats will be quite thick but they will almost always be a single coat. One of the reasons the Cockapoo was bred was to inherit the low-shedding coat from the Poodle parent. While the coat is not hypoallergenic, these dogs do not shed as much as many other breeds and may be the perfect dog for those with allergies. Color There are a range of different colors that the Cockapoo can come in and they can either be solid, part, phantom or tri-color. The colors include red, black, merle, tan, sable, brown, chocolate, and apricot. Temperament The Cockapoo is a very energetic pup that loves to be outside exercising. Because of their hunting heritage from their parent breeds, the Cockapoo can still retain this trait so you will need to be careful when out and about. Proper training and socialization can fix this, and it can also help with unwanted or aggressive behaviors that the Cockapoo is sometimes known to develop if not socialized properly at a young age. Friendly and loving, the Cockapoo will happily also spend time curled up next to you on the couch. They love attention and people and can be known to be very social dogs with children, pets and even other strangers. The Cockapoo is an observant dog and will bark to warn you if something is out of place. Occasionally, the Cockapoo can be prone to rage syndrome and, although rare, it is associated with Cocker Spaniels and they can sometimes pass it on to their young. Again, adequate socialization from a young age can help with this. Lifespan The Cockapoo has a long life expectancy. These dogs are expected to live to anywhere between 14 and 18 years old. Known Health Issues Due to the fact that these dogs are a mixed breed, they have fewer health concerns than many pups. However, unfortunately, they can still be prone to some health problems that their parent breeds are prone to. This is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Patellar Luxation is another condition the Cockapoo may inherit from their Poodle parent. This is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Remember — buy from a reputable breeder and the chances your dog will suffer any health conditions will be greatly reduced. Trusted breeders will do health checks on both parent breeds and will not crossbreed if there is a chance of passing on any severe issues to offspring. Daily Life Now we know all about the Cockapoo temperament and traits, we can take a look at what daily life with one of these pups is like. We will cover their food and diet, their exercise needs and their grooming needs. Food And Diet A Cockapoo needs roughly calories of food a day, which equates to around two cups of kibble. Of course, you should always double check the back of the food packet to see the exact amount you should be feeding your dog based on their weight. The food you feed your Cockapoo should be high-quality and nutritious. You should try to split their food into at least two meals a day. As a puppy, their food should be split into three meals a day. Unfortunately, this Poodle Mix can be a fussy eater so it may take you a while to find a food they like. Take a look below at the food we recommend for this breed. Life Span Did You Know? The Springerdoodle is a designer dog breed that originated in the United States. They are a cross between an English Springer Spaniel and a Poodle. A hybrid dog may take on characteristics from either or both of their parents. When it comes to a Springerdoodle, they are generally intelligent dogs that love their families and are eager to please. They also tend to have a playful, energetic personality and a gentle disposition. Although this designer dog breed is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. The Springerdoodle is a fantastic addition to any family, whether they are single owners or families with children. Their friendly personality and gentle, patient nature mean they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Springerdoodles are also devoted and loyal to their families. They tend to be playful and absolutely love being around people. A Springerdoodle is a moderately adaptable dog breed. They love to run and are better suited to homes with some space, especially fenced yards. They do well in just about any climate. But, as with any dog breed, they are sensitive to high heat and to extreme cold. Because Springerdoodles thrive on attention and love their families, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. As a mixed-breed, the Springerdoodle can inherit the potential health conditions common to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. There may also be health clearances, certifications, or test results that you can review. Springerdoodles are also at a higher risk of bloat. Springerdoodles are intelligent dogs that enjoy learning and are eager to please. This means that they pick up on things quickly. They are highly trainable and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Puppy training classes may not be necessary, but they can be a good idea as they often provide opportunities to socialize a puppy. The grooming requirements for your Springerdoodle will depend on the coat they inherit from their parents. Should they end up with a Poodle coat, they will be low-shedding. But, they will require daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. They will also need professional grooming every weeks to keep their coat healthy and looking great. Should a Springerdoodle end up with a Springer Spaniel coat, they will have a double-coat that sheds moderately year-round and more heavily as the seasons change. Brushing once or twice a week and an occasional bath is usually enough to keep their coat healthy. Professional grooming for a clip during the summer can be a good idea. Monthly nail trimming is usually sufficient to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning them as needed can help prevent ear infections. When it comes to dental care, many dogs are seriously lacking. This is one of the reasons gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs! By practicing good dental care for dogs , you can help prevent painful dental diseases like gum disease, tooth decay, and tooth loss later in life. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste daily and visiting the vet for regular cleanings are ideal. The Springerdoodle is a high-energy dog breed. Daily walks plus time to run and some extra activity are usually enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. Their friendly personality makes them a great fit for trips to the dog park. They may also enjoy going for a swim, going on hikes with you, running with you, playing frisbee, and more. A fully-grown Springerdoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Springerdoodle generally lives years. Springerdoodle may be the most common name for this designer dog breed, but they are also sometimes called a Springerpoo or a Sproodle. Featured Springerdoodle Article.