my first golden retriever puppy

my first golden retriever puppy - Insufficient relaxation or sleep time Other animals harassing your dog Lack of positive attention from you Inconsistent or unclear behavior rules taught by you Insufficient physical or mental exercise You give incorrect attention during arousal behaviors You can correct the lack of exercise through a balanced German Shepherd exercise routine for health. Boredom, due to lack of mental stimulation, is also correctable. Read this guide on using mental stimulation exercises for German Shepherds to improve their behavior. Motherhood, hypothyroidism, and physical pain all contribute to stress and hostile episodes. While motherhood passes, other medical conditions need treatment. Talk to your vet before trying to address aggression on your own as an underlying medical condition may exist. Triggers are immediate actions or behaviors that increase or begin the act of aggression in your dog. Determine what sets off your dog by watching their body language signs listed above and noting their environment. This requires identifying the trigger, eliminating any stressors, and creating a training modification program that is consistent to meet your GSDs end goals. Use the stress list, found above, to help you figure out stressors that you can control. Track what things cause your dog to react hostile. Use Safety Precautions to Prevent Injury Try a control management tool such as a muzzle or headcollar to regain control when out in public. Gentle Head Collar This control tool provides gentle corrections and prevents jumping, lunging, and pulling. It does, however, provide better safety and control. If you need more confidence in handling your aggressive German Shepherd, then place the head collar on them before going outside. Aggression Treatment To have the best chance of success with training an aggressive German Shepherd, use the entire treatment protocol listed below. Using all the steps of treatment gives you and your dog more positive results. The following chart provides the training step and the action to help lessen aggressive behavior. The program can take many months depending on what issues your dog exhibits and how deep those issues are. Instead, take an approach that touches on all of the daily life skills. In a nutshell, the NILIF technique means that for everything your dog wants in life they must perform a command that you give them. You can make yourself more predictable to your dog by teaching them that rewards only come when he asks nicely with a calm behavior, like a sit. Your dog earns all rewards such as food, treats, praise, and affection by giving you the behavior you want. Most importantly… Teach your dog the basic obedience skills to reinforce your expectations and use this obedience training in your daily routines. Instead, use positive reinforcement that promotes and rewards desired behaviors. Here are some problems and solutions to help prevent your German Shepherd from becoming aggressive. Rather than think your German Shepherd has simply become aggressive, look for the areas of their life that tend to upset her. German Shepherd Aggression Prevention There are many reasons you must consider when wondering why your German Shepherd is becoming aggressive. Use a complete training regimen to ensure success. Aggressive German Shepherds are a potential threat and a safety hazard. Safety is your priority. Both for you and your dog. Your patience and persistence help your GSD become a success story! The correct thing to do is to make sure your dog is kept away from harming any person or animal. Please share this to help others! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Are German Shepherds Aggressive? Fact vs. Fiction German shepherd dogs are a very popular breed known for loyalty, bravery, and protection. But are German shepherds aggressive too? Find out the facts. German shepherd dogs are a very popular breed known for loyalty, bravery, and protection. The German shepherd dog has a devoted fandom of dog lovers around the world — so devoted that this dog breed even has its own acronym, the GSD. The GSD is often associated with loyalty and bravery. The truth about dog aggression is that it can affect any breed of dog, especially if the dog doesn't get enough socialization from an early age. But there are dog breeds that are more prone to aggressive behavior because of their breeding or because of genetically inherited mental disorders, like rage syndrome , cognitive dysfunction , or hypothyroidism. We'll look at the risk factors and statistics surrounding German shepherd aggression. Plus, we'll share tips for dog owners trying to prevent aggression in their German shepherd puppy or adult rescue dog. A Look at the Facts There are three ways to assess the likelihood that a dog breed will have aggressive tendencies. The first is to look at what they were bred for — this is often the best indicator of a dog's hardwired personality traits. Next is to look at the breed's health and inherited disorders to determine whether they inherit conditions that put them at risk for aggression. And finally, look at the data surrounding dog bites to see if German shepherds bite more frequently than other breeds. This data will help us discover the answer to: Are German shepherds aggressive? Were They Bred for Aggression? German shepherds were originally bred to be working dogs, and this dog has a history of succeeding in all types of work — most of which require a stable temperament. Herding These dogs started out as herding dogs where an aggressive dog might injure the livestock. But, part of the job of a herding dog is also to protect their herd. So, they may show aggression when they perceive something to be a threat to their flock, or in the case of a family dog, to their family members. Police Work German shepherds also work as police dogs. While this may bring to mind the image of an aggressive German shepherd, police dogs actually need to have an even temperament and be able to keep their cool in high-stress environments. Otherwise, they would be at risk for biting innocent civilians. This work requires an intelligent dog that pays close attention to its handler and loves the mental stimulation they get from police dog training, including obedience training, scenting, and search and rescue. Guarding Now we come to the one job that most people associate with aggression — The German shepherd breed is often used as a guard dog. These large dogs have an imposing size and appearance that can scare off strangers, and typically they will act to protect their home and family from a perceived threat. What constitutes a "perceived threat" will be different for every dog. A well-socialized dog may welcome strangers into their home and only act if their owner appears to be frightened or in pain. An undersocialized dog may perceive every visitor as a threat and need to be put away in a crate or another room whenever you have company. German shepherds are rarely aggressive towards their owners or family since that is the thing they're protecting. They may at times become overprotective of family members, but this trait should be manageable with proper training. While German Shepherds are at risk for a variety of health problems from arthritis to pancreatitis , they are not prone to rage syndrome, cognitive dysfunction, hypothyroidism, or brain tumors. However, GSDs are prone to epilepsy , which has been linked to aggression when it's left untreated. If you're buying a German shepherd puppy, ask the breeder about any history of epilepsy in their dogs and in puppies from previous litters. While a responsible breeder will conduct a variety of health screenings, there isn't currently a genetic test that can predict epilepsy. If you've had a German shepherd for a long time, and it suddenly starts to show signs of aggression, take your dog to the vet. Even if your GSD doesn't have epilepsy or another condition linked with aggression, their new-found behavior problem may be a sign that they're in pain. Many dogs will behave aggressively if they're in pain, and your dog may need medical attention and pain relief. According to recent data, German shepherds rank fourth on the list of dog breeds that bite the most. However, when you consider that German shepherds are the third most popular dog breed in the U. And while the study referenced above listed the top breed as unidentifiable, many local reports list Labrador retrievers as the breed that bites the most people. Labs also happen to be the most popular dog breed, which means there are more of them in the U. More Labs means more chance of getting bitten by a Lab — just like how more German shepherds means more chance of getting bitten by a German shepherd. A literature review by the American Veterinary Medical Association AVMA found a strong link between the prevalence of breed-specific bite incidents and the regional popularity of the breed. For example, in some regions of Canada where sled dogs are the most popular breeds, Siberian huskies caused the most dog bites. The AVMA review also found that with many but not all large breeds, the number of bites by that breed went up during times when the breed's popularity went up. A few years later, around the time that those Rottweiler puppies would have reached maturity, there was a spike in the number of reported dog bites by Rottweilers. This same study found that, compared to their prevalence in the dog population, small and medium-sized dogs were more likely to bite than large dogs. But bites by large dogs were more likely to be reported because they cause more damage. Because an aggressive large dog is more dangerous than an aggressive toy breed, large dogs are also more likely to get treatment and training to prevent their aggression. And lack of training may be part of the reason aggression was more prevalent in small and medium dogs. This research found that situational factors not related to a dog's breed were more likely to lead to biting. The situational risk factors included a dog owner's mismanagement and neglect of the dog, the bite victim being a stranger, and the dog not being spayed or neutered. Because purebred German shepherd puppies come from breeders, rather than rescue organizations, owners are not typically required to get their GSDs spayed or neutered. So, it seems that any increased risk of a dog bite from German shepherds may be based — at least in part — on the increased number of GSDs in the population. And that's if the breed reporting can be trusted at all. Ultimately, any dog can bite if they're not trained and socialized from a young age. However, because German shepherds are large and powerful dogs, their bite will do more damage than the bite of a chihuahua — making it even more important for German shepherd owners to sign their pet up for obedience training. How to Prevent Aggressive Behavior The majority of aggressive behavior is preventable. Here's what you can do as a German shepherd owner: Start Socializing at an Early Age Dog owners can raise well-adjusted pets by introducing their dogs to as many different kinds of people and environments as possible, starting at an early age. Take your puppy to parks, restaurants, sports games, and any other dog-friendly locales you can find. While you're there, ask people of all different heights, skin tones, ages, abilities, and genders to interact with your German shepherd puppy. And make sure your pup gets plenty of treats at each new location and from each new person they meet. Take Your Puppy to Training Classes Sign up for obedience training to further socialize your pet and prevent common issues like puppy nipping. Look for dog trainers who use positive reinforcement training. While dominance-based dog training used to be a popular technique, animal behaviorists now recommend against it, partially because these techniques can sometimes cause dog aggression. Rehabilitate Older Dogs If you're rescuing or fostering an older GSD or GSD mix and the dog already has behavior problems, work with an animal behaviorist to find the best positive reinforcement techniques to rehabilitate your pet. If your adult dog has aggressive tendencies, train them to enjoy wearing a muzzle and make sure they wear it whenever they're around new people. Recognize the Signs of Aggression Even if your dog is perfectly trained, they may still behave aggressively if they feel frightened or threatened. Watch your dog's body language for early signs of fear and aggression , including a lowered head, tucked tail, pinned-back ears, growling, and snarling. Remove your dog from the intimidating situation before the behavior progresses to lunging or biting. As a vigilant dog owner, you can help prevent dog aggression and keep your pet feeling safe and calm. While any dog can show aggressive tendencies if they aren't socialized from a young age, German shepherds don't appear to be more at risk for aggression than any other dog breed. As a German shepherd owner, we know you want the best for your dog — from the best food for German shepherds to the best dog training. These intelligent dogs are easy to train, so sign them up for positivity-based obedience classes to help them become better behaved and better adjusted canine citizens. To learn more about your dog's health and wellness, check out the Native Pet blog. Read more. If you have previously had pets of medium or smaller size, you might be used to lower activity levels. The same applies if the German Shepherd is your first dog. Unless you have had a big dog before, you will almost always underestimate the exercise demands of the breed. He will no longer override commands or ignore etiquette upon exhausting this energy. Taking the dog on a long walk is a straightforward way to channel this excess energy safely. That said, you must create a minute break between his display of aggression and exercising him because the last thing you want is for your German Shepherd to start associating aggressive displays with reward. Now, he gets aggressive anytime he hears a doorbell because the association has taken root, and he is in fear. Unfortunately, a German Shepherd forms most of his lasting associations when less than six months old. That means any older rescue dogs will require a lot of patience to have aggressive defense mechanisms deactivated. It is advisable to use the services of a professional dog trainer if your rescue seems to be aggressive because of PTSD or trauma. In the meantime, avoid being harsh with punishments and do not opt for negative reinforcement as a mode of discipline. Read more on exactly how to discipline a German Shepherd. While sexual aggression is often associated with the male gender, even female German Shepherds get aggressive when in heat. Spaying or neutering your German Shepherd can resolve aggressive displays that occur because of sexual maturity. Nonetheless, before you get your dog snipped to resolve his anger issues, you must be sure that the aggressiveness is indeed a result of sexual energy and talk to your veterinarian first. It helps to look at the aggressiveness levels over a longer period. Suppose the levels of aggressiveness correlate with development and sexual maturity 5 to 6 months and are inconsistent across a few weeks. In that case, you can be sure that this is because of the changes in their body. Sexual aggression can be of two kinds. The first is a result of frustration. It is also the assumption that makes owners wonder whether male German Shepherds are more aggressive than females. Male German Shepherds are more aggressive than females in general, but females tend to be relatively more aggressive during periods of heat. Males remain more dominant even after neutering, while female GSDs lose the bulk of their aggression upon getting spayed. That brings us to the second kind of sexual aggression. When a GSD undergoes sexual maturation, internal changes in their body make them feel anxious. Internal changes can be temporary when the dog gets sick or permanent in reaction to environmental changes around the dog. Either way, German Shepherds are not the best at handling change, internal or external. Showing compassion and making sure they have more routine in their life can help reduce these aggressive tendencies. Poor Training Some aggressive behavior seems abnormal because it is conditional. A German Shepherd might be perfectly well-behaved throughout the day but start being aggressive around strangers. German Shepherds descend from a line of highly disciplined work dogs, making it pretty hard for them to be unpredictable even with average training. However, if an owner gives mixed signals unknowingly, he ends up with a well-behaved GSD who seems to act out unpredictably at times. Your German Shepherd is aggressive towards strangers because he is not socialized correctly. By lowering his threat radar and getting him to meet more friends, you reign in his aggression toward other people, especially strangers. You can also show dominance to get him to stop being too possessive. This happens because some German Shepherds need more emphasis in certain areas than others. When you give a GSD the standard training regimen, you might overlook the fact that certain areas, like socializing and dominance, need extra work. Here are some aspects that your German Shepherd might need further training. Command reception — This is a part of early German Shepherd training, where you establish yourself as the dominant guardian. Dominance management — The German Shepherd should not feel protective to the point of being too possessive. By establishing yourself as alpha, you can discourage aggressive tendencies. By establishing a predictable consequence of aggression, you can get your dog to associate aggressive outbursts, loud barking, etc. Common Aggressive Behaviors Continuous Low-range Barking, Growling, or Snarling Because humans project their own psychology and actions onto dogs, they assume that anger is expressed in volume alone. Dogs barking excessively express intent to attack, especially when their volume is low. So, pay attention to your German Shepherd when his barks barely break a growl. Your dog may also bare his teeth. Snapping, Clawing, or Lunging While clawing can be an instinctive reaction to being anxious, your German Shepherd is displaying aggression when it is accompanied by snapping. This is also a moment or two before the dog jumps at someone, so it is advisable to hold his leash tightly. That said, do not tug on his leash, as doing so might make the GSD more stubborn. If your German Shepherd is the anxious, aggressive type, then his fear-driven anger is visible from his tall posture combined with ears pinned back. Becoming still and rigid or staring are other indicators of dangerous behavior. Check out the below photo of my German Shepherd with raised hackles piloerection. Although piloerection is a sign of aggression, you must look at the whole picture. In this case, it was a simple case of another dog walking past the house, and Willow was excited. Notice how her ears were alert and not pinned back. My German Shepherd Willow with her raised hackles. Having a Tail Held High or Moving Stiffly This behavior is too subtle for most people to notice but displays the kind of anxiety that turns a dog aggressive. If your German Shepherd holds his tail unusually high and moves it stiffly from side to side upon introduction of a specific stimulus like a person , then he may be about to get aggressive. You can read more about the meaning of German Shepherd tail positions in this article. It is better to manage this before it becomes a problem. The following section on preventing aggression will give more insight into this. This is why it is crucial to avoid judging your pet and instead focus on how to stop him from being aggressive. When this something is external like a stranger approaching , then training is easier, but if the trigger is internal, it becomes hard to discourage specific aggressive reactions. Internal triggers are also hard to see. Still, when it comes to external triggers, you can bring him in decent proximity to the trigger that otherwise leads to aggressive behavior. You want to desensitize him to the trigger — in other words, get him used to other dogs at the park. The treats can be accompanied by praise and a soothing tone. This is known as counterconditioning. So rather than seeing other dogs as scary, your German Shepherd sees them as a chance to earn a tasty treat. Your German Shepherd, already calm, will not likely get mean at this distance. Do not push your luck and try walking him further. The farthest boundary is enough. You will have a chance to shorten the distance between your doggo and the park. The park in this section is a substitute for any external trigger. This could be a stranger, a specific friend, or even a vehicle. As long as the trigger is visible yet far enough away for your German Shepherd to be relatively calm, you can give him treats and have him start associating the previous trigger with a positive outcome. Repeat the Steps While Increasing the Proximity You now have to judge when your German Shepherd is sufficiently secure at a certain distance from a trigger. Then you must decide how much more distance you can cover to bring him closer to the trigger without switching on his aggressive side. I would recommend closing the distance by as little as a few feet per day. If your German Shepherd stays calm, shower him with praise and rewards. Keep repeating until the trigger no longer causes an aggressive outburst. However, you cannot focus on discouraging aggression without thinking about how you can make your dog more comfortable. From taking your German Shepherd to a vet to switching back any recent changes in diet and habitat that may correlate with anger issues, you can do your best to single out the internal source of fear or anxiety in your German Shepherd. While you cannot make your pet associate his internal triggers with rewards such as treats, you can give him compassionate company. Your presence, words, and tone can contribute to calming down your best friend. What To Do if Your German Shepherd Growls: For external trigger management, I recommend taking your dog to a certain distance from his trigger and rewarding him for being calm. At this point, one might think grounding the German Shepherd is a good solution. It is not. Your German Shepherd will get mixed signals if he gets rewarded on some walks and grounded after others. Simply retreating and taking him away from the trigger is the best option when he starts growling at the stimulus. The worst thing you can do is nudge him toward what he seems to be fearful of or anxious about. Even if you have pocketed treats to give him for being calm, you cannot reward him once he has shown even the slightest sign of aggression. However, you can ensure you choose the correct timing when giving treats as a reward, which is a fundamental part of dog training. At the precise moment your German Shepherd stops his mean behavior, such as growling, snapping, or lunging, you reward him. That way, he quickly associates his calm demeanor with the reward. Progress toward the stimulus even more gradually, and keep rewarding your dog disproportionately for being calm. Overall, a growl equals no treats, no grounding, and moving away from the external trigger. In fact, distance is one of the best ways of preventing an aggressive reaction before it occurs. Here are some ways to prevent German Shepherd aggression from occurring in the first place. A well-socialized dog is a well-liked dog, and since German Shepherds are excellent at picking up on body language, they can see if people like them or are cautious of them. An asocial GSD will make people nervous, pick up that energy and become nervous himself. Such a dog can also be aggressive towards other dogs and trigger them to be defensive, leading to altercations. Follow my guide on socializing a German Shepherd to ensure your pet is socialized appropriately even if he is older. Female German Shepherds Male German Shepherds are more aggressive than females owing to their gender traits, energy levels, and overall nature. Sometimes, females can get aggressive depending on the environment or other trigger factors. Black vs. Long-haired vs. Short-haired German Shepherds Long-haired and short-haired German Shepherds are equally aggressive and have similar temperaments. Here are the key takeaways from the article: German Shepherds have a protective instinct that is naturally asocial if not managed with training. Socializing your puppy is critical to preventing aggression. Male GSDs are more aggressive than females unless the female is unspayed and in heat. Spaying or neutering your GSD can significantly reduce aggression. You can lower aggression by gradually exposing a dog to his triggers while rewarding him for staying calm. You can prevent an aggressive episode in a German Shepherd by pre-training him to relax on command. Related Posts You May Like:. What does it mean for a German Shepherd to be aggressive? It can range from the dog being territorial and protective to just feeling uncomfortable in their environment. In this blog post, we will talk about how you can fix these types of aggression problems in your pet. They may bark, snarl and charge at other dogs on walks or when they see them in the home. This is very dangerous, as it could cause another dog to get injured or hurt themselves while trying to run away from the situation. Refusing to go near other dogs when they are out walking or in the home. Hiding behind furniture or in dark areas of your home if they see another animal outside being walked. Always remember that if your German Shepherd is aggressive towards other animals they may need some medical attention as well. Take them to the vet for an examination and to rule anything else out before trying any of these methods yourself. If your shep becomes aggressive when they see other dogs on walks or being in a new environment, there are several methods you can try out at home to help them get used to these situations without them getting so worked up, including the Desensitization Method, The Introduction Method, The Routine Method and the Counter-Conditioning Method. The Desensitization Method You can try and desensitize your GSD towards a stimulus that causes them to become anxious or aggressive. Then, when you get to this point, just wait for a couple of minutes so your dog becomes comfortable in the area again before carrying on back home. The Introductions Method Introducing a shy or fearful dog to new people and other dogs should be a slow process. Have the person come over and keep your dog confined until everyone is comfortable and settled in. Step 3: Then, have the person offer high-quality dog treats that you know your shep likes. A good one might be Zesty Paws Calming bites since it soothes and relaxes them. Step 4: The person should hold out the treat or drop it on the ground nearby. They should not make eye contact with your dog and stand sideways or in a crouching position while they are doing this. Tip 1: If your GSD continues to be shy or shows fear, do not reward them with treats or this will reinforce their bad behavior and delay progress. Keep your distance from the handler and their dog at first. Step 3: Slowly approach the other dog and handler and reward your dog if they act calm Then, let them sniff and circle around one another. Next, walk azway with your dog. Step 4: Repeat this process as needed. If you have a shy or fearful dog, it may take several times to build up their confidence enough for them to be relaxed enough around other dogs. Tip 1: Reward your dog whenever they display confident behavior. This positive reinforcement encourages a positive association when your GSD meets new dogs. This can cause a negative reaction in your dog. Tip 3: Start with a familiar, well-behaved canine. This precaution helps the process along by introducing your animal to a socialized, confident dog. It will also teach you the best way to handle these types of socialization episodes. This is a great way to train your pet so it can be rewarded for not acting inappropriately instead of them getting chastised for doing something wrong. This is done by giving them a treat every time they react positively to seeing another dog so that it changes their thoughts about this stimulus. Take Virtual Dog Classes Dog training classes work really well for curbing aggression and other undesirable traits in your dog. Virtual dog classes , where dogs can learn new behavior and impulse control online, fit into busy lifestyles and you can take them anywhere. Here at Regis Regal German Shepherds we offer virtual dog classes, and can happily show you how to fix German Shepherd aggression. We can provide private one-to-one dog training throughout the world thanks to modern technology! Our dog training sessions cover anything from discovering bad habits to helping with bad behavior such as pulling on a leash and aggression. There are a number of reasons why your German Shepherd might be acting aggressively towards other animals, and it can even depend on their breed. The thing about dogs though is that they are very difficult to understand, so it could be possible your dog is simply telling another animal off for paying too much attention or getting in their personal space; Fearful of other animals: If you have a German Shepherd who is fearful and anxious around other dogs or any type of pet then this can cause them to lash out. This is often more of a problem with dogs who are very attached to their human family, although it can still happen even if the dog only has mild separation anxiety; Dominance issues: Some German Shepherds will display dominant behavior towards other animals in order for them to stay on top of any kind of social hierarchy. This can cause an issue with aggression because they have no idea how to act around another animal. Breeding: With a GSD, temperament is something that cannot be trained into them; it has to be bred. This is when the mother and father of a puppy have familial ties and desirable physical and temperament are inherited by the puppies. Outline breeding, which is the opposite of inline breeding, is performed by many breeders in the country—puppies who are outline bred will inherit the worst physical and temperamental traits of their parents, including aggression and poor health characteristics like hip dysplasia. East German Shepherds, on the other hand, are bred to work for the military and police. They do not have a temperament that is suitable for the home, and they are not, nor intended to be, family dogs. Health issues: Sometimes an underlying health issue can make a dog act aggressively, such as pain or illness the most common one is hip dysplasia. Take a Class with Your German Shepherd Regis Regal offers both in-person classes and online classes to help you socialize and train your dog. Our course is designed for both novice pet owners as well as more experienced GSD handlers who have had trouble in the past with these wonderful animals. Call us today at or send us a message to learn about our German Shepherd classes. I've been breeding German Shepherds of sound body and mind for over 30 years and specialize in providing families with loving companion dogs, and dogs for emotional support therapy, for veterans suffering PTSD, and for other special needs. I'm trying to share my extensive knowledge on breeding and training the perfect German Shepherd with the wider community. We offer lifetime guarantees on health and temperament. Our bloodlines started out of the top 2 bloodlines in the world, Vom Arlett and Bad-Boll. As I continue this blog I will help you learn how to assure you are picking a healthy and happy pup for your next family companion. Recent Posts. This is simply not true. A dominant GSD essentially likes to be the center of attention and will do what it needs to do in order to establish that. It is not acting in a way that is coming from a fear of some sort, instead it acts in a way that is an attempt to prove to the world that it is the leader and needs to be taken seriously. Shows his strength: He will never give up on a game of tug of war, be it with you or another dog. He will show that he is stronger than the next dog or person each and every opportunity that arises. Stare downs: He is all about eye contact, but not as a sign of affection. His intent is to show you that he will not budge and that you should seriously consider submitting to him. He will do this with both people and other dogs. Mounting: He will, bluntly put, mount anything that he can. He will not discern between male and female, as this is not an attempt to mate, but more a showing that he is in control. One of my dogs used to just take bones away from my Rottweiller and go sit with them on his own bed. An aggressive GSD is coming from an entirely different place psychologically than a dominant one. Instead, there is either a primal instinct or learned fear from a past experience that is traumatizing the dog and causing it to lash out with aggression. Types of aggression Possessive: At one time, dogs had to protect their food supply and sleeping dens from other predators. This primal behavior sometimes takes root in the modern dog and it becomes protective of its food and bones, lashing out at anyone who gets near. You may not even know that you are close, but they are the first to let you know. So for my second GSD I made it a point as a puppy to get him used to my hand in his food bowl when he was eating and I would hold onto bones while he chewed them. This resulted in him simply not minding at all. In fact, as he got older, he would bring bones over for me to hold for him so that he could get a better chewing angle. Fearful aggression: This generally occurs when a dog feels that it has to defend itself, but it has nowhere to go. If given a choice, most dogs that exhibit this type of aggression will retreat and remove themselves from the situation. But if they are backed into a corner, they may feel that aggression is their only recourse. Defensive aggression: This is very similar to fearful aggression. It still arises out of fear, except the difference is that the defensively aggressive dog will not use retreat as its first option. Instead of letting itself get backed into a corner, it would rather handle the situation before it gets to that point. Aggression due to pain: This can cause a normally gentle and calm dog to become aggressive in an instant and with no warning. This is may happen if the dog has an underlying medical condition, or if it perceives something as likely to be painful. This is one reason that dogs often lash out at veterinarians. The dog is not really thinking, it is just reacting. A territorial aggressive dog may simply bark at unfamiliar people attempting to enter the home or property, but sometimes they will not just bark but will also bite — regardless of who the person is. Many dogs will instinctually chase something that it thinks is getting away. This can be a kid on a skateboard or bike, a car, a jogger, or any number of other things just moving by. Protective aggression: This behavior is sometimes displayed by dogs, especially German Shepherds, when they feel that part of their family is being threatened. It is this type of aggression that often leads mothers to be protective of their litters as well as any dog being protective over a new baby in the family. Frustrated aggression: A dog may display this when held back from something that it wants. For example, if a dog is excited and wants to interact with another person or animal and you try to restrain it, some dogs may become aggressive out of frustration. The potential for a German Shepherd to become aggressive begins at a young age. It actually begins when they are just several weeks old and under the care of their mother. This job is not an easy one. Consider a human mother being overwhelmed with a child — the mother of a litter of puppies is in the same circumstance. Just like people, first-time moms can have it rough. A GSD who is a first-time mom may just be overwhelmed. This stressful situation is also one which causes a lot of fear in the mother. And when frightened, a German Shepherd mom might not act rationally — she may even act aggressively towards her puppies. If a mother acts aggressively towards her puppies, then the puppies will no doubt also become frightened. It is at this point that her puppies, because of their fear, may also begin to become prone to aggression. This will also make them more difficult to train as they get older. One lesson here is that you need to make sure that your breeder is using the proper dogs for having puppies. If you plan on getting a puppy, make sure that you discuss this point in-depth with your breeder. The actions that you take when your GSD is a puppy and growing up as a young adult are key to preventing aggression. Consistency in Training As your puppy is growing up, it will be exposed to all manner of different things that are brand new to it. There will be new people, new places, objects, new animals, and just new experiences all around. While your puppy is going through all these changes, there needs to be a constant. And that constant is you. More specifically, the constant is you and the discipline that you give to your puppy. Disciplining here does not mean correcting your dog every time it does something wrong. Rather it means positively reinforcing your GSD every time that it does something correctly. And the best way to make sure that your dog is doing something correctly is to associate a reward with something that it wants. The first step to accomplish this is by requiring your dog to perform an action any time that it wants something. Examples Your puppy is approaching you and whining to go outside. Your first instinct may just be to take the puppy outside. Do not do take the puppy outside before making it sit. As your puppy gets a little bit older and accustomed to doing this one simple action, you will need to increase what you require of your puppy. Just as a teenager needs responsibilities to grow, so does your puppy if you want to keep it disciplined and away from aggressive behavior. Your puppy is wanting a treat. Before the puppy is allowed to have a treat, make it lie down and roll over first. Your puppy is coming to you and asking for a walk. Have the puppy go over and sit, lie down, and stay by the door. Your puppy is coming to you and wants to play. Have the puppy shake and roll over, then shake again, and then sit. Use your imagination with all of this, your GSD puppy is very smart. You may even find that your puppy begins to approach you after doing these behaviors for some time and just does them on its own. This is ok — praise your puppy for asking politely. This is a good way to teach it that it cannot always get everything that it wants whenever it wants it. But going down this route will be setting you up for failure. Just like a teenager, if you give them too much and they have to do nothing to earn it, they may begin to feel entitled, and reluctant to work for anything in life. Your puppy really is no different. Depending on the puppy, if you deny it what it wants, some may sulk, some may accept it, and some may express their frustration by growling or even biting. If this occurs, your number one priority is to keep cool. Do not express any negative emotion or raise your voice. Keep cool and stay quiet. And under no circumstances should you get physical with your dog. Do not try to restrain it, and certainly never smack or hit it. Many many people often make this mistake. This could not be further from the truth. When a German Shepherd shows aggression towards someone and is met with aggression back, the dog views it as a challenge — and a German Shepherd will not back down from a challenge. Your dog is simply trying to get your attention. So now this is another attempt and nothing more. Do not read into it beyond that. And if you meet your dog getting physical with you getting physical, you are simply showing it that it has now found a way to get your attention when all else has failed. Maybe I should do that next time. If you do not approach this situation in the proper manner, you will be setting a terrible example for your dog, and creating a pattern that you may never be able to train out of it. So be smart about it, you can keep your cool. And you must. Follow these steps: Remain unresponsive and nonreactive. Do not raise your voice or say anything at all to your dog. Once you are in another room, calmly speak to your dog and command it to sit and lie down. Stay in this place with your dog until it calms down. It may whine at first or even bark. But just stay the course until your dog is calm. Let bygones be bygones. Do not hold a grudge. Your dog loves you and has limitless forgiveness toward you — you should have the same attitude. If you lay each brick carefully, you will have a solid wall. But if you fail to lay a brick, or lay it improperly, you will have an unreliable wall that will not stand the test of time. Understand that this will take time, repetition, and consistency on your part. Just be patient and build your wall properly. And know that if you do it properly, the odds are very much in your favor that this type of aggressive behavior will be trained out of your dog. If you fail to do this properly however, you may be opening a door that down the line could lead your dog biting someone or even worse. Socialization Is Key This topic is addressed a number of times on this site because it is so important. So before we even begin on this topic, be sure to take a look at or bookmark the article linked below: How To Socialize Your German Shepherd A German Shepherd that is not properly socialized may grow up to be timid, it may have anxiety problems, it may be depressed, or the worst-case scenario is that it may become aggressive. One of the reasons that you likely got your German Shepherd is because you love the idea that it is naturally protective of you. Your German Shepherd does not need any specialized attack or protection training for this to happen, it comes instinctually to a German Shepherd. Your German Shepherd was bred to be protective, and they are territorial by nature, so it is its instinct to protect you and your home. When confronted with a new situation, your dog will use its best judgment in determining how to react. But without having the proper foundation for making good decisions, such as a variety of past experiences that you created for your dog, there is no telling how it may react. Because its instinct is to protect you, if it misjudges a situation as one that warrants being fearful, it may well act aggressively in an effort to protect you. Socialization Overview People When a German Shepherd is meeting a new person for the first time, it may not know what to think, and on an instinctual level, it is gauging whether the person is friend or foe. So when introducing your GSD to a new person, your behavior is key, as well as the behavior of the other person. The person needs to be aware of the purpose of your meeting. The person must clearly understand: The purpose of them meeting your dog socializing it. To remain calm and act only in a positive manner. To not make any sudden movements, especially towards you. If you are near your home, then not to make any sudden movements towards your property. I will give you an example from my personal experience when the other person did not do as instructed, and they got nipped. Keep in mind, however, that the following account was with one of my dogs when he was around 1 year old and was being trained to protect our home. Therefore, his natural protective instincts were heightened. It nonetheless serves as a good example of what can go wrong if an introduction is not made properly. I began by introducing a friend of mine to my dog off of our property. They got along well, so we then progressed to the point where I would hand the leash over to my friend and he would walk the dog himself, again off of the property. Then we gradually brought my friend into the yard. Me, my friend, and my dog would sit and the yard and talk while my friend petted my dog. But I advised my friend never to make the first move towards the house and to always let me lead the way. My friend got a little bit too confident because the dog and him and were interacting very well. And because of his overconfidence, he just became absent-minded and decided to make a move towards the house. And for the dog, there was no grudge, no further aggression — no nothing. The situation was over for the dog. To him, he was just clearly defining his boundaries. I had done the same thing multiple times with different people who all followed my direction, and my dog grew to love each one of them. Had my friend in the above instance carefully listened to and followed my instructions, there would have been no problem. He would have been able to come into the house in a matter of minutes and there would have been no issues with the dog at all. The point in relating this story is to make sure that whoever you are socializing your dog with is prepared, and to ensure that all introductions go smoothly. You should introduce your German Shepherd to new people frequently and in different settings. Make one introduction near your home. Make another introduction in your home. Do another while out shopping. Do another inside of your car. Any circumstance that you may ever potentially be in with your dog and another person needs to be covered during this time in his life. Proper socialization also includes your dog being introduced to all different kinds of people. Introduce your GSD to: tall people. German Shepherds tend to be calm and collected dogs. However, they can be pushed to become aggressive in certain situations. Fear Fear aggression is a type of aggression in which the dog is afraid and has an intense fear-based reaction to people or other animals. This type of aggression is often triggered when the dog feels like it needs to protect its property, including its food, sleeping area, toys, or other belongings. Dogs with this type of aggression can present with signs such as growling if their space is invaded, biting if an intruder gets too close, defending their food bowl with their teeth, and snapping at anyone they perceive as a threat within the household. Social Aggression On the other hand, social aggression is defined as dogs acting aggressively towards people or animals to try and exert control over them. This could include the dog growling, barking, or biting when someone tries to touch them; or when visiting family members attempt to hug or kiss the dog. Redirected Aggression Redirected aggression is a type of aggression in which an aroused dog behaves aggressively toward an innocent bystander after being unable to attack the target initially motivated to bite. It can also happen during play between pets. This can include two dogs playing too aggressively or focusing too much on being dominant. Unfortunately, another dog playing nearby may take the brunt of the attack. Frustration Aggression German Shepherds may become aggressive when they are frustrated. For example, a German Shepherd may become aggressive when it is not given enough exercise or confined to a small space. German Shepherds may also become aggressive if they are teased. If not given enough exercise and companionship, German Shepherds may be more likely to get into fights with other dogs. If this behavior is repeated, it can lead to more severe aggression such as possessive aggression, dominance aggression, etc. A lack of discipline from the owner will also contribute to possessive and dominant aggression in German Shepherds. Once these behaviors have been displayed several times by the dog, the owner loses control over the situation. This makes it difficult for them to enforce commands they may give to the dog. Dominance Aggression Although similar to territorial aggression, dominance aggression is the most common type of aggression in dogs and is usually displayed when the dog feels like it needs to assert its dominance over people or animals. Dogs may also become agitated and aggressive when someone approaches them while eating or playing with a toy. This is because estrogen and testosterone can cause aggressiveness. Although, you should consult your veterinarian to know if getting your dog spayed or neutered is the best choice and if your dog is the right age for this kind of operation. This is known as injury or illness aggression. Signs that a dog is exhibiting this type of aggression can include whining, cowering, shaking, and even attacking people or other animals. Dogs may become aggressive to protect themselves from further injury or to get away from the person or animal that is causing them pain. However, they only become aggressive when under certain circumstances. These dogs are not usually aggressive unless they have a reason to be. A reason they may become aggressive can be any of the ones listed above. German Shepherds are not usually aggressive against other dogs. However, there is no guarantee that this will always be true because it depends on their environment or experiences with other animals. Some reasons that a German Shepard may become aggressive against another animal include: If they have been attacked by an animal before. If they have seen someone being attacked by an animal before. If they were attacked as a puppy and it was not corrected. These dogs are pretty playful; therefore, any growling or aggression you notice when your dog is around another dog is most likely playful in nature. However, it would be best not to overlook this, as playful aggression can quickly turn to severe aggression. This is why you should never let two dogs be alone without supervision. Symptoms of Aggression The symptoms of aggression in German Shepherds are variable. The following are some of the symptoms that you might see in your dog if aggression is an issue that they face: Depression, destruction of items in the home, withdrawal from human contact. Reluctance to wake up in the morning or even get out of bed. This can be due to anxiety or insecurity when left alone. If your dog is experiencing any of these symptoms, it might indicate aggression, and you should consult with a professional trainer or behaviorist to find out the underlying cause. German Shepherds are often considered one of the more aggressive breeds in the United States, but there are ways to train them and help them feel more comfortable in their environment. With a little bit of work, you can have a well-behaved and happy dog! How to Prevent German Shepherd Aggression Luckily, there are ways to prevent this aggression from developing. Sometimes your German Shepherd may show signs of aggression, including growling, barking incessantly at other people and animals, or even nipping them. It could be a sign of some stress or anxiety. As with any type of bad behavior in dogs or children! There are many things you can do right from the start to help prevent aggression in your German Shepherd: Make sure they get plenty of exercise. A tired dog is a good dog! Ensure they have a good diet and plenty of fresh water. Start obedience training as soon as possible. This will help establish a strong bond between you and your dog and will also help teach them how to behave appropriately around other people and animals. Be consistent with rules and discipline. Dogs need structure in their lives just like children do! Once you know the root of the problem, you can treat it as needed. Here are some tips to help you: The first step to training a GSD is meeting their needs. Ensure that they are fed well, exercised regularly, and appropriately sheltered. Begin with teaching your dog some basics like how to sit on command or stay when told— this should be done without any form of physical contact other than verbal cues i. Once your dog has mastered these commands, you can move on to more complex tasks. German Shepherds are one of the most versatile breeds in terms of obedience training. They can excel in various activities such as agility trials, herding, tracking, and Schutzhund. However, they can also be stubborn at times and require patience and consistency when training. One of the reasons GSDs can be aggressive is that they are bred as working dogs. They are often used by the military, police departments, and search-and-rescue teams. As a result, they can be territorial and protective of their family and property. It is essential to teach them that strangers are not a threat unless you tell them otherwise. Because puppies can learn new things much easier than adult dogs, always start obedience and aggression training while the dog is a puppy. Knowing what to look for can help you train and manage your dog better and keep everyone safe. And remember, always keep an eye on your dog when other people or animals are around-you never know when they might start acting out! Genetics, learning history, and environment all play a role in behavior. Here are the four questions you can ask to get the full picture: 1 What kind of information has the breeder or rescue organization given? Has the breeder become aware of other puppies in that litter showing aggression? Does the rescue have any information on either of those things? Is your GSD puppy showing aggression only when there are items of value nearby, like toys or bones? When do other dogs walk by your house? When his food bowl is present? Keep a puppy behavior diary — make notes of when you see behaviors of concern so that we can identify those specific environments. GSD puppies are typically fantastic communicators — they are born with the ability to use body language to express themselves to us and to each other. A fearful puppy may show his teeth, pin his ears, piloerection, growl, whale eye show the whites of his eyes in a doggy glare but keep his distance. More aggressive behaviors are similar to the above but they are much more inclined to break that space bubble and move in to make contact with the threat. However, a GSD puppy who is struggling with anxiety, pain or neurological issues, may take several hours or days to return to their normal state. These puppies require veterinary assistance to look further into WHY — a Veterinary Behaviorist who is qualified in both behavior and medicine. It is not only scary and upsetting after your GSD has become aggressive with you, but very confusing. They use their teeth for everything, especially while interacting with their people. Encourage him to go into his crate and get him into the car and to the vet for professional help to rule out any medical issues first. The short answer is YES. Whenever you see the behavior of concern, especially in a puppy, the very first thing to do is to see your veterinarian to rule out any chances of an underlying medical issue — medical trumps behavior, always. Ask your vet for assistance in finding the best harness for his body shape. Ask them what their training methods are and what you can expect from your first session with them. A GSD, even as a puppy, can certainly have great instincts to begin to protect his family and his environment — however, he does not yet have appropriate experience under his belt to know what to do with possible threats. Like most GSD puppies, they play, eat and sleep hard. If you have a friend or neighbor with a healthy, stable dog that could teach your GSD puppy how to play, this is always best. If, however, your GSD puppy is hurting your older dog — biting legs and neck to the point of drawing blood or causing a fight between them, separate them immediately and book that vet visit. When it comes to children and dogs of any age, there is no grey area. Is your or any child safe with your puppy? You will then need to contact a qualified Canine Behavior Consultant, not just a trainer, to help you. Demographic and epidemiologic data were collected and analyzed. A total of children were identified. The average age was 4. The majority of dog bites occurred in children 5 years of age or younger .Almost all .When circumstances surrounding the bite were documented, over half .Truly aggressive GSD puppies are rare — however, it happens. Qualified professionals will not recommend euthanasia lightly — they will do everything they can to ensure that underlying medical issues or specific contributing environments are ruled out. Conclusion In conclusion, truly aggressive GSD puppies are rare — but not impossible. Hire a qualified behavior consultant to help you figure out the WHY to prevent it from getting worse. Be sure, when looking to purchase or adopt a GSD puppy, to ask about their contracts to make sure that you are covered. If the aggression is based in fear, which it typically is — yes, with the right professionals on your side, your GSD puppy can live a normal and happy life. Fear is complex and time-consuming to work through but it can be done! More posts on German Shepherd Puppies Recommended post. Are German Shepherds Dangerous? December 30, German Shepherds were originally bred as protection animals. Therefore, they have protective and territorial instincts that other dogs may not have. There are a lot of mixed opinions about this topic — as well as a lot of mixed science that seems to back up both sides. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. German Shepherds need to be socialized and trained so that their territorial instincts can be harnessed. To accept individuals into their homes, German Shepherds need to be taught that not everyone is bad. In fact, these dogs can be extremely gentle when raised properly. However, not everyone who owns a German Shepherd is responsible. Without the proper knowledge, these dogs may not get the socialization they need to thrive. On the other hand, other owners know perfectly well what the German Shepherd needs — but find it more difficult to provide for those needs than they originally expected. They may get the care they need as adults but then be mostly kept to themselves as puppies. The American Veterinary Medical Association ran a whole study on whether or not particular dog breeds were more likely to be aggressive than others. However, it is essential to realize that these breeds are also more common in the United States. In Canada, most dog bites are attributes to Siberian Huskies and other sled dogs — likely because these are the most common breeds there. Similarly, in Rome, Italy, Mastiffs were found to have the highest bite occurrence. However, they are also one of the most popular dogs in that area. Furthermore, the popularity of different breeds coincided with bite reports. The more popular a breed was, the higher that bite statistic rose. It seems to be largely associated with the popularity of the breed, not their actual aggression levels. Based on behavioral assessments, small breeds seem to be the most aggressive — not larger breeds like the German Shepherd. However, these bites are largely underreported because they do not usually require treatment. Bites on children statistically come from small breed dogs, like Chihuahua and Lhasa Apsos. The statistical difference in bites reported between children and adults likely comes from the fact that children need treatment after a small breed bite, while adults do not. The behavioral assessments for German Shepherds are mixed. This suggests that there is likely high variability within the breed. Some German Shepherds are much more likely to be aggressive than others, in other words. Again, socialization and training play a large role in this. Adopting your dog from a qualified breeder is also important. After all, genetics do play a role as well. There is no evidence that German Shepherds are more likely to bite their owner than any other breed. Like all dogs, German Shepherds will protect themselves if threatened. If an owner is too rough with a German Shepherd, they may try to defend themselves by biting. This trait can be said for all breeds , though. No dog is going to submit to injury if they feel like they can defend themselves. Again, we highly recommend socializing this breed at a young age. Most bites are caused by fear, including those directed at people. For instance, dogs are commonly afraid of umbrellas. At the same time, you should also familiarize yourself with proper dog training. Positive reinforcement training works best, as there is a very small chance that the dog is going to react negatively to treats. After all, dogs bite things they are scared of! Dominance training has been disproven for dozens of years. It can also make your dog react negatively, causing your dog to bite. Are German Shepherds Naturally Aggressive? They were bred to protect herds of sheep and were then utilized for military and police work. Their protective instincts are still with them today, as they are commonly still used as guard and protection dogs. They are not Labrador retrievers in the least! They are very calm family dogs in most cases, especially if they are socialized from a young age. They are not particularly more likely to bite than other breeds when properly socialized and trained. There is a lot of variation amongst German Shepherds, though. Some are more likely to bite than others. Much of this depends on the training, though genetics can play a role as well. If you purchase a German Shepherd as a puppy, we highly recommend purchasing them from a quality breeder. Breeders are not going to breed a dog if they are overly aggressive and untrainable. Dogs are born with innate instincts and behaviors — including territorial behaviors. All German Shepherds will display territorial behaviors from their birth. These are innate instincts. A little German Shepherd puppy is going to be at least somewhat wary of strangers. It will likely take a least a year for a German Shepherd to get large enough to actually be intimidating. Before this time, these dogs will likely be too small and puppylike. However, it can take up to two years before a puppy is full-grown. The instincts will be there from birth, though. German Shepherds can be great pets — for the right family. However, there are many cases when they can make very poor pets. German Shepherd dogs require significant amounts of training. Not only do they need to be taught how to behave, but these dogs are also extremely intelligent. Therefore, you should continue to train them even after they have mastered all the basic commands. However, it is particularly important for German Shepherds. Sadly, good breeders can be difficult to come by. These dogs are quite popular, so there are lots of breeders out there. Many people mistakenly believe that purebred dogs are healthier than mixed breeds. However, the opposite is true. Purebred dogs are prone to a variety of genetic conditions, including the German Shepherd. Hip dysplasia and a wide variety of other conditions are common in this breed. German Shepherds shed a lot. They require daily brushing in some cases. You should only adopt from a breeder that puts temperament at the forefront. You need to socialize German Shepherds a lot. They need to be introduced to many different people so that they know that not everyone is a threat. You only want them protecting you and your family from bad people — not everyone. German Shepherds usually live between 10 to 14 years. However, 15 years is not unheard of. Final Thoughts German Shepherds have the potential to be aggressive. Every dog does. However, with the correct socialization and training, these dogs can easily be trained to accept others into their territory. However, these dogs are a big responsibility. Be sure to carefully consider whether or not you want a German Shepherd before you adopt one. Your actions will largely determine whether or not they become aggressive. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. 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my first golden retriever puppy - A mix between the confident Airedale Terrier and the regal Standard Poodle , this newer cross is sure to keep turning heads for years to come. The Airedale Terrier is sometimes known as the King of the Terriers. They are a unique-looking sporting breed with a long snout and curly hair. Their distinguished face also makes them easily recognizable. People often unfairly dismiss the Poodle as a prissy show dog. In reality, they are just as capable of being driven sporting or working dogs. They boast an incredible intelligence. Still, there are millions of dogs waiting for homes in shelters. When looking for a specific breed, make an effort to adopt from a shelter or rescue. Read on for a detailed list of characteristics of the Airedoodle. Contrary to popular belief, the suitability of dogs who adapt well to apartment living goes beyond its size. Apartment dwellers have a myriad of dog breeds to choose from as potential companions, with various factors to consider. Some large breeds can adapt well to apartment living and have lower activity levels. Others may require more space and possess higher energy levels. On the other hand, certain small dog breeds with abundant energy can still find contentment with indoor playtime or brisk walks. However, when selecting a dog that adapts well apartments, it is essential to prioritize your neighbors. This makes them less suitable for apartment living. Therefore, desirable qualities in an apartment dog encompass being quiet, low-energy, and displaying polite behavior towards other residents. Apartment dwellers have a wealth of dog breeds to choose from as potential furry companions. While some larger breeds can adapt well to apartment living, with lower, others may require more space and have higher energy levels, making them less suitable for smaller apartments. Conversely, certain small dog breeds with higher energy levels can still thrive in apartments, finding contentment through indoor playtime or brisk walks. By considering these factors, you can find a dog that will adapt well to apartment living and create a harmonious living environment for everyone involved. We highly recommend doing your research and looking up as many breeders as you can find before you purchase your Airedoodle. You will likely find that each breeder is unique and has something unique to offer. If your heart is set on adopting a dog, you can ask your local shelter if there are dog mixes that resemble the Airedoodle. You might be lucky enough to find an Airedoodle, but it might be rare. Smarty pant parents The Poodle parent of the Airedoodle is the second smartest dog breed, beaten only by the Border Collie. They love to play games like fetch, and also like to go on long walks. They get along well with other pets, and they are curious, so they make great watchdogs. They are very loyal and like to stay close to family members. They also want to learn and enjoy training exercises that bring them praise and treats. They are extremely intelligent and quickly learn tricks and can solve most puzzles presented to them. They are also crafty and will find ways to communicate with you to let you know what they want. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Plenty of early socialization will help them get along better with pets and children, but they rarely have any problems in most situations. They are not much for barking, so they are great for apartments and cities. If you socialize them early, they will get along with other pets even better and will have no problem making friends on walks or when traveling. Occasional treats are ok , but you should always try to get your dog to do some mental or physical exercise before they receive a treat. Avoid using grain-free dog foods until you talk to your vet, as you should before switching to any brand of specialty food. They love to walk and games of fetch , so you will need to put aside at least a half-hour each day to devote to exercising with your pet. This half-hour will likely be enough on some days, but on other days, you may find your dog eager for a few more minutes of play. Often, you will need to spend and additional minutes with your pet to keep them happy. They learn very quickly, and after they catch on to a trick or two, you might find yourself teaching them multiple tricks at once. After a few tries, they will complete tricks on the first command, and they are also capable of complex multistep tricks. To teach your Airedoodle how to do a new trick stand in front of them repeating a phrase like sit, stay, or paw. When your pet figures out what you are asking of it and completes the trick, let them have a treat. Repeat this training session one or two more times, and then try it a few times the next day and each day after until your pet learns the trick and does it on the first command. Your Airedoodle is going to require regular trimmings , as well as brushing and shampooing to keep their hair looking the best. It can also improve their well-being as knotted hair can pull on the skin and become painful. You will also be required to trim the nail and brush the teeth of your Airedoodle regularly to promote dental health. Minor Conditions Cataracts Dogs can get cataracts the same as humans do. A change in the water balance of your eye lens is the primary cause, and it results in a cloudy lens. The cloud prevents light from hitting the retina, which makes it harder to see and can cause blindness. Symptoms include a cloudy or foggy looking eye, and you should take your pet to the vet immediately if you notice this symptom Bloat Bloat is a common condition in dogs that requires immediate medical attention. It can reduce blood flow to the heart and tear the stomach. Symptoms can come on very quickly and include drooling, restlessness, pacing, and failed attempts to vomit. Serious Conditions Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a disease that resembles arthritis in dogs that can affect any breed but is especially prevalent in larger dogs. Early symptoms include lethargy, difficulty getting up or sitting down, and even whimpering. If you experience your pet displaying any of these symptoms, we recommend getting them to the vet immediately. Obesity Another major condition affecting all breeds of dogs is obesity. A medical condition can cause obesity, but often its caused by improper diet paired with little or no exercise. Obesity is especially prevalent in larger, more active breeds that struggle to get the large amounts of exercise that they require to stay healthy and stave off obesity. Other than the slight size difference, there is very little to tell the males from the female Airedoodles. You can be one of the first to own this unique and intelligent breed. We hope that you have enjoyed reading about the Airedoodle and we have enticed you to investigate them further. If you have found nit helpful, please share this in-depth guide to the Airedoodle on Facebook and Twitter. See also:. Airedoodle puppies and breeders Airedales and Poodles are both very intelligent dogs, so the Airedoodle is going to be a smart cookie. They are also hard working breeds, with high prey drives and a strong bond to their owners. Although sometimes disinterested in or wary of strangers, these dogs are very loyal to their families and make loving pets in the right homes. Where Do Airedoodles Come From? When we look back at some of the most famous canine movie stars, what we see is a lineup of mixed breed dogs — in short, mutts! The Airedoodle is a really interesting hybrid mix! From each purebred parent dog line, the Airedoodle inherits some amazing traits and qualities, including nobility, smarts, athletic talent, and a tremendous work ethic. This is the largest purebred terrier. The Irish Terrier, Bedlington Terrier, English Black and Tan Terrier, Otterhound, and certain other retriever and setter breeds are thought to have contributed to the breed now called the Airedale Terrier. The latter two lines are more recent, however. These dogs are not only one of the smartest canine breeds on the planet, but they come from a noble hunting and working dog lineage. Airedoodle Appearance With any hybrid dog, and especially with first generation litters F1 from two different purebred parent dogs, it is not easy to predict exactly what a given puppy may be like. This inherent unpredictability comes from not knowing how the genes from each parent dog will interact in a given puppy. This is because starting in the second generation, you may see parent dog pairings where both parent dogs are Airedoodles. One parent dog is an Airedoodle and the other parent dog is a Poodle, or one parent dog is an Airedoodle and the other parent dog is an Airedale Terrier. The first combination will be the most stable in terms of predicting what puppies will be like. The more removed from the first generation pairing you get, the more stable the traits of the puppies are likely to become. For this reason, we focus here on first generation F1 puppies and take a look at each purebred parent dog. This will give you a big picture perspective on what an F1 Airedoodle dog may be like! Airedoodle Size, Weight and Height Airedoodles can be anywhere from 13 — 23 inches in height and weigh between 15 — 70lbs! The Poodle is bred in three sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. The miniature Poodle stands 10 to 15 inches and weighs 10 to 15 pounds. The toy Poodle stands less than 10 inches and weighs 4 to 6 pounds. The Airedale Terrier is bred in one size. The adult dog will stand 23 inches high and weigh 50 to 70 pounds. Here, you can see there may be great size variety even within a litter of Airedoodle puppies! This dog is often recommended for people who have pet allergies because of the low shedding. Weekly brushing is often sufficient to keep the coat healthy. Are Airedoodles Hypoallergenic? Poodles can need more frequent brushing with longer clips. What this means is that any Airedoodle puppy is likely to inherit a low-shedding coat from either parent dog. Airedale Personality and Temperament Airedoodle dogs are one of the hybrid dog breeds where each parent dog shares some wonderful traits common with each other! Both the Airedale Terrier and the Poodle come from a strong working and hunting dog background. And since both have a great work ethic, a strong people-pleasing personality, natural intelligence, and athleticism, you can reasonably expect to see these same attributes in your Airedoodle puppy. So the most important part of training Airedoodles is twofold: you should always use positive training methods and provide consistent training. You can expect that your Airedoodle puppy will thrive with early and ongoing training and socialization with family, new people, and other dogs. The Airedoodle can make a great athlete and will likely enjoy and excel in agility, rally, show, K-9, and service and therapy dog training. Airedoodle Health One of the big unknowns in hybrid dogs today is health. This is because you are taking the individual health history of two long-standing purebred dog lines and combining those genes together in the puppies. So you need to invest the time up front to learn everything you can about potential health issues that your Airedoodle puppy may inherit from either parent dog line. Health testing for Airedale Poodle cross dogs We recommend testing the Airedale parent dogs for: Hip dysplasia. See on Amazon In essence, the ideal owners for Airedoodle dogs are those who can provide an active and engaging lifestyle, commit to training and socialization, and offer the necessary care and attention to meet the breed's physical and mental needs. By aligning with these qualities, owners can forge a strong and rewarding bond with their Airedoodle companions. Airedoodle Life Expectancy What is the average lifespan of Airedoodle dog? Airedoodle dogs have a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years provided that proper care is given. The life expectancy of an Airedoodle, a crossbreed between an Airedale Terrier and a Poodle, generally falls within the range of ten to fifteen years. However, individual lifespans can be influenced by various factors such as genetics, overall health, diet, exercise, and the quality of care provided. Airedoodles inherit genetic traits from both parent breeds, which can impact their susceptibility to certain health conditions. Ensuring a balanced and nutritious diet tailored to their age, size, and activity level, along with regular exercise and mental stimulation, contributes to their overall well-being and longevity. Regular veterinary check-ups and early detection of potential health issues play a pivotal role in extending their lifespan. By providing comprehensive care and attending to their specific needs, Airedoodle owners can increase the chances of their beloved pets enjoying a full and healthy life. Airedoodle Size Airedoodle dogs vary in size depending on which type of Poodle was bred into the mix. Since Miniature Poodle is much smaller in size than Standard Poodle, the Miniature Airedoodles are typically smaller in size than Standard Airedoodle dogs. A full grown Standard Airedoodle dog can reach a height of 22 to 26 inches tall when mature and a weight of 40 to 60 pounds. Airedoodle appearance The Airedoodle boasts a distinctive and charming appearance that reflects its crossbreed lineage. As a cross between the Airedale Terrier and Poodle, this hybrid dog exhibits a combination of characteristics from both parent breeds. Their coat type and color, as well as their overall build, contribute to their unique and captivating appearance. One notable feature of the Airedoodle's appearance is its coat, which can vary in texture and color. Drawing from the Poodle lineage, some Airedoodles may have a curly or wavy coat that is hypoallergenic, making them a favorable choice for individuals with allergies. Coat colors can range from solid hues to combinations of various shades, including black, brown, cream, gray, and more. In terms of build, Airedoodles often inherit the strong and athletic physique of the Airedale Terrier parent. They tend to have a well-proportioned body, muscular limbs, and a square-shaped head. Their facial expression is characterized by expressive eyes and a black nose. Additionally, their ears may be set high and fold over, resembling those of both parent breeds. Overall, the Airedoodle's appearance is a harmonious blend of the distinctive traits of Airedale Terriers and Poodles. Their coat's texture and colors, along with their sturdy build and endearing facial features, contribute to their appealing and eye-catching presence. At the sight of an Airedoodle, you will spot typically a long snout and a wiry coat. His ears are floppy and the head is round. The dog is strong and has a sturdy appearance. He has a dense medium length that can be curly, wavy, soft or coarse. Airedoodle dog is a moderate shedder which only means regular brushing. The shedding amount will, however, depend on whether the dog is more of an Airedale or a poodle. If it's more of a poodle, then the activity will include shampooing, brushing and trimming. On the other hand, if it's more of an Airedale Terrier the activity will include just brushing twice in a week or some shaping. In order to ensure long term dental health care, the Airedoodle will require his teeth to be brushed more often. His nails should be trimmed regularly too. If you are wondering what time you should trim them check him when he is pacing the room, be keen to observe a clicking sound on the floor. Airedoodles colors are dictated by their parents the combination of An Airedale Terrier and a Poodle, they include: black and brown, black, black and white, golden white, white markings, black and tan, cream, gray, apricot. The texture of an Airedoodle will depend on who he favors ranging from soft to coarse. Origin of Airedale dog Airedoodle is a mixture of very interesting hybrid dogs. From the purebred parent dogs, Airedoodle picks the best character traits from each, which includes smarts, nobility, tremendous work ethic as well as athletic talents. The Airedale terrier has a nickname of "King of terriers" which makes it the biggest purebred terrier. It was first bred by crossing a mixture of various different purebred dogs together, which included Belington terrier, Irish terrier, tan terrier, English black and otterhound. Its birthplace was in the Aire valley region which is miles south of Scotland, Northern England. This sporting dog was used mainly for hunting in the midth century. The poodle dog is bred in three sizes, which are the miniature, standard and toy. The poodle dogs have fine curly springy hair that is eye-catching for everyone who sees it. However, it can mask this dog's athleticism, intelligence courage as well as their versatility. They come from a working lineage and are noble hunters hence explaining their smart canines. This dog first originated in Germany where he was used as a working dog in the military. Records trace it back to the 17th century. Airedoodle pedigree The Airedoodle is a mixture of two hybrids that is the Standard poodle and the Airedale Terrier. However, its parents qualified to be registered and have been members of the club for a long time. The Airedale terrier was registered by the club back in the year while the Standard poodle got registered in the year .The Airedale is described to be very courageous, clever and friendly it falls under the terrier group within the AKC. On the other hand, the standard poodle is described to be proud, smart and very active, it falls under the category of sporting dogs within the AKC ranks. Airedoodle Diet What is the best dog food for Airedoodles? Selecting a high-quality commercial dog food tailored to your Airedoodle's life stage puppy, adult, senior is the cornerstone of their nutritional regimen. When scanning ingredient lists, prioritize options where a protein source, such as meat or fish, takes the lead, while avoiding foods riddled with artificial additives and fillers. For active and vibrant Airedoodles, protein is essential for maintaining muscle mass and vitality. Complex carbohydrates are an energy source and contribute to digestive health. Nutrient-rich grains like brown rice, quinoa, and sweet potatoes can be included in their diet, while it's advisable to minimize foods containing excessive corn or soy content. Essential fatty acids from sources like chicken fat or fish oil support their skin's health and coat's shine. Introducing a variety of fruits and vegetables such as blueberries, carrots, spinach, and pumpkin into their diet provides an array of vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants that contribute to their overall well-being. Nom Nom dog food Portion control is critical when feeding Airedoodle, as obesity can pose a concern for any breed. Consult your veterinarian to determine appropriate portion sizes based on their age, size, and activity level. Equally vital is ensuring they have consistent access to clean and fresh water for proper hydration. While establishing a regular feeding schedule of meals a day for adults and more frequent meals for puppies is recommended, the avoidance of toxic human foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, and garlic is crucial to their safety. Customized dietary needs may arise due to allergies, sensitivities, or health conditions. Hypoallergenic dog food Airedoodle Puppies Finding an Airedoodle puppy may not be an easy task due to the fact that it's an uncommon hybrid. Once you bring your puppy home ensure to have a game plan ready for training him. Be keen to introduce obedience training since the new puppy may get overly hyper due to the high energy levels they contain. New airedoodle owner's guide Are Airedoodle good dogs for families with kids? Airedoodles are affectionate dogs with big hearts since they love human companionship you do not have to worry about their interaction with kids. However, you will need to be extra careful when it comes to socializing with your toddlers, owing to their high energy levels this dog may bump into your young one without meaning any harm, which may not be a good experience for your baby. Teach your kids proper ways of approaching and playing with the dog. Airedoodle Exercise Needs The parents of the Airedoodle have high energy levels, so expect the Airedoodle to be very active as well. The dog requires going for regular walks for at least half an hour on a daily basis. Other benefits will be gained from visiting dog parks where the dog can have a couple of activities in the yard. Having this adorable pooch is an added advantage to homeowners who adore running, jogging or cycling since this dog can make a great companion while you enjoy these activities. It's advisable for potential owners to have time slotted in their schedules to accommodate such activities since this will aid the Airedoodle to thrive mentally as well. How to groom an Airedoodle dog? The Airedoodle dog is most likely to have a low shedding coat since its parents shed low coats. In order to take care of this dog's coat, it's highly recommendable for potential owners to do weekly brushes as well as professional grooming every two to three months. In addition, it's advisable to also take care of the Airedoodles ears, nails and teeth. The professional grooms can take care of this easily. However, the potential owner is required to take care of it by themselves in between the professional and the grooming sessions at home. In times when the nails grow too long the movement of an Airedoodle can become very painful, and are prone to cracking which at the same time increases the risk of getting caught in things. It's advisable to trim the nails of an Airedoodle on a monthly basis to keep the nails short. In case the Airedoodles nails are not wearing down between trims, then it's advisable to often file them. Airedoodles ears also need regular check-ups while carefully cleaning them up to avoid ear-related infections. Too much moisture, wax buildup, debris, and dirt may cause severe damage or potential infections. Frequent checkups on your dog's ears to ensure they are dry, free of debris and clean may help identify problems in case anything is going on. One of the leading common health issues in dogs is dental related. However, most potential dog owners normally overlook it. Just as it's essential for us humans to brush our teeth, so it is for your dog and on a daily basis. This aids in preventing tartar from building up which eventually leads to tooth decay, tooth loss or gum diseases. It's recommended to use a toothpaste meant for dogs while brushing their teeth or enhance the toothpaste with some enzyme. Better still, the dog vet can offer ways to supplement dental care for the dog such as feeding the dog with special formulated dental care diet or dental hygiene chews. Airedoodle training The Airedoodle dog has high intelligence and is very keen to please its owner, making it very easy to train him. The Airedoodle is physically strong and so you will require both socialization and behavioral training in order to bring out the best of him. They love human interaction and also thrive on mental stimulation. This only means that they can pick up commands easily after just a few cycles of repetition. Since the dog is very talented, he will do good in competitive obedience, guarding, hunting and also tracking such activities will keep him mentally stimulated and physically active. Potential owners of this dog will love to go out of their ways to keep him healthy, active and happy. Tips for training an Airdoodle dog Find an effective way to aid your Airedoodle to burn off excess energy This specific breed is very active and has high energy levels therefore learn to take the dog for long walk sessions every day or play with it outside for a longer period. This ensures that your dog does not become hyperactive or defiant during training, which leads to a slow command pick up series. Use positive reinforcement skills to train Airedale dog Since it's easy to train an Airedoodle dog you will not find it difficult to make it obey your commands. The dog will easily follow the commands without any trouble, rewarding it makes it more eager to obey the commands. Rewards may include food, walks or toys. Start training Airdoodle pup as early as you can When the Airedoodle is still very tender start giving simple instructions before moving onto the harder ones. It's at this stage that pet learns at its very best and often prevents aggressive behavior while developing. Be relaxed and confident during the training Airedoodles are very sensitive while it comes to sensing your emotions, so its good to be relaxed and calm during the training so that your dog can do the same. If at any time you become angry or firm during the session, your dog may not listen to you. It's advisable to stay confident and within your dog's abilities, this will make it easier for your dog to pick up commands. Potty Training Airdoodle puppy Potty training is among the most important tasks that need to be performed as soon as you get your Airedoodle pup home. If your dog is trained early enough, it will definitely not give you a hard time to train. Being an intelligent hybrid dog, this dog will absolutely not give you hard time to potty train him. Stay positive and be patient, while you avoid punishing your dog when it messes in your house. Below are tips to observe while potty training: Watch out: Be keen to watch your dog, he will tell you when its time through subtle clues such as the following: Sniffing at the floor, turning around in circles, scratching at the door, pawing the ground, barking or whining. Watch closely so as to identify these signs once its time. It's preferred that you keep your dog in the same room or area to able to carry out the observation. Observe bathroom breaks: A non-mature dog may need to relieve himself more often than a full-grown dog. Depending on the age a puppy may need between 3 to 4 hours break to facilitate the need and less likely to have accidents. As the Airedale Poodle mix dog grows older the timings are bound to change so take them out after meals play sessions or naps. Now, I own a Doodle dog of my own. This gives me a unique perspective on the Airedoodle breed. Plus, a soft spot in my heart for both parent breeds. They were wonderful dogs. Full of energy, stubbornness, and love for our entire family. Airedales are not very common. The breed becomes a part of nostalgia that mixes childhood and family memories into one. An old picture of my two Airedales: Max bottom and Kyle top. I adored both Kyle and Max. Kyle was tall, lanky, and gentle. As a kid, I would lay on him and read a book or bury my head into his. Max on the other hand was built like a bull. He was stubborn, energetic, and a free soul. Both Max and Kyle were great watchdogs. They were great with my sister and me when we were small children. For that, I will always love Airedales! This adorable video below about a family adopting an Airedale puppy just hits too close to home. After I graduated college, I was dead set on getting a dog of my own. I was obsessed with Bernedoodles. Eventually, I was able to adopt Murphy and the rest is history. She is a wild child. I love every minute of it. But all the other times of fun and sweetness make up for it. Bernedoodles are a Poodle mix. Living with Murph for over 3 years has convinced me that Poodle mixes, or better known as Doodles, are the ideal dog mix. I could be biased but the Airedale-Poodle mix sounds like the perfect dog. What is an Airedoodle? It is a relatively new Doodle breed that has risen in popularity in recent years. It is a medium to a large-sized dog with an athletic build. They are smart, loyal, and gentle. Airedoodles can also be called Poodales or Airepoos. Like many Doodle breeds , it has no documented history. The two breeds that make up the Airedoodle, on the other hand, have a long history. Airedale Terrier Airedale Terrier holding a toy. The Airedale Terrier is commonly referred to as an Airedale. They are also known as the Bingley Terrier and the Waterside Terrier. Airedales have influenced other dog breeds such as the Yorkshire Terrier. This breed was created as a versatile hunting and all-around working farm dog and has also served as a battle dog, guide dog, and police dog in the United Kingdom. Terriers from the River Aire in South Yorkshire were bred with Otterhounds in the mid-nineteenth century to improve their ability to hunt near water and boost their scenting abilities. The Airedale was the name given to the breed after the place where it originally appeared. Poodle Poodle running around outside. Officially, the Poodle is said to have originated in Germany in the midth century. Their heritage reaches further back to an Asian dog breed that had curly hair. Originally a water dog, the Poodle was used in Germany for its superb waterfowl-hunting ability. The breed has excelled as a guide dog, protection dog, service dog, and performance dog. Origin of the Airedoodle The origin of the Airedoodle is a mystery. The Airedale Terrier-Poodle mix combines the histories of both parent breeds into one. As previously stated, there are no official records on when or where the first Airedoodle was born. This is not uncommon in the Doodle dog world. The skull of an Airedoodle is round, and the ears are floppy. They have a square-shaped construction and a powerful, solid look. Mellow, an adorable Airedoodle puppy, hanging out on the floor image: mellowaire. The Poodle has a curly, long coat. The combination of the two gives the Airedoodle a curly, wiry coat that will need attention often. It should be professionally groomed frequently, or it will mat and tangle. This will be uncomfortable for your pup. It also means he will be dragging dirt and dander wherever he goes. Poodles only have one coat while an Airedale has two. The undercoat is softer than the outer coat. The outer coat is rough, wiry, and rigid. This level of grooming may be required for your Poodale. Also, be sure to brush their teeth at least every other day to prevent plaque buildup and periodontal disease. Coat Colors According to the Airedale breed standard, the proper coat color is either a black saddle with a tan head, ears, and legs or a dark grizzle saddle black mixed with gray and white [3] www. The finest and toughest coats are grizzles, which have a mix of red hair, typically located on the back before the tail. The Poodle has many more possible color variations for their coats. Some of these colors are black, white, brown, apricot, silver, beige, red, blue, and grey. This implies that the Airedoodle can have a variety of coat colors. Oftentimes, Airedales are crossed with the Standard Poodle. For a smaller Airedoodle, the Airedale can be crossed with a Miniature Poodle. The female Airedoodle is somewhat smaller than the male Airedoodle, but not by much. Aside from a tiny size variation, the male and female Airedoodles are virtually indistinguishable. The categories are scored using the average rating of both parent breeds. The parent breed data was acquired from the American Kennel Club. Health Problems Fortunately, the Airedoodle, like many hybrids, is less prone to genetic diseases. However, as previously said, the breeder determines the quality of your Airedoodle puppy. Dermatitis Dermatitis can occur in any dog. It is mainly the inflammation of the skin [4] firstvet. Dermatitis can arise from a food allergy or a flea bite. It can also manifest through a hereditary disease called canine atopic dermatitis. Terrier breeds can be predisposed to canine atopic dermatitis [5] firstvet. Due to the Airedale parent, this is a health issue to be aware of in your Airedoodle. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is widespread in medium-sized to big dogs, such as the Airedoodle. Obesity Like most dogs, obesity can pose a problem for Airedoodles. Cataracts Cataracts may develop in the Airedoodle. This condition is caused by water imbalances in the lens of the eye, which results in a clouded lens [7] petkeen. Bloat Bloat can be a problem in large dogs. It is an issue to keep an eye out for at all times since it requires immediate medical intervention. Drooling, restlessness, pacing, and failed efforts to vomit are just a few of the symptoms that might appear suddenly. She was showing the common signs so I took her to the vet immediately. Luckily, a veterinarian was able to identify that it was not bloat. I still keep an eye out for it though! Food And Diet Because the Airedoodle is such a huge and active dog, it needs a lot of high-quality dry food to flourish. According to experts, they should be fed between two and a half and three cups of food every day, split into two meals. When assessing dog food, ensure the protein source is identified on the label. Even grain-free food, such as beans, peas, and lentils, sometimes contain high quantities of starchy carbohydrates. Giving this to a dog puts their system under stress, generating physiologically demanding insulin, glucagon, and cortisol surges throughout the day and inflammation and stress on important organs, which can lead to a variety of major health problems. As far as possible, it would be best if you tried to avoid foods labeled as containing byproducts; while they are less expensive, they are of poor quality. Price Due to the scarcity of Airedale Terriers, Airedoodles are rare designer dog breeds today. As a result, this breed is quite expensive. Are Airedoodles easy to train? Airedoodles respond well to obedience training. Even though certain breed members might be obstinate, most breed members are eager to please. Their intellect, paired with this, makes them valuable training partners. They can accomplish stunts on the first instruction after a few trials and even do intricate multistep tricks. As a puppy, work on basic commands like sit, remain, or paw. Repeat this training session one or two more times, then attempt it a couple more times every day until your pet has mastered the trick and can perform it on demand. They must be taught their position in the family and etiquette from a young age since they are huge and strong dogs. While jumping up may be cute when the Airedoodle puppy is three months old, it is much less charming when they are three years old and capable of knocking a youngster down! Are Airedoodles good family pets? Children adore the Airedoodle dog because it enjoys giving and getting attention. Training is vital to educate the youngsters to respect the dog, which will minimize unintentional nips from rough play. This breed will get along better with dogs and children with plenty of early socialization, but they seldom have any issues in most scenarios. Are Airedoodles good with other pets? The Airedoodle likes being around other pets and frequently engages in horseplay and games. They will get along with other pets even better if you socialize them early, and they will have no trouble making pals on walks or when traveling. However, you should socialize this dog as soon as possible to ensure that it has no trouble establishing friends. Regardless, it would not be the smartest move to keep this dog around rodents due to its Airedale Terrier heritage. How much exercise does an Airedoodle need? The Airedoodle, like the Airedale Terrier and Poodle, is a high-energy breed that requires a lot of stimulating exercises to be in good physical and mental shape. Your dog will need daily activity in the shape of a lengthy walk, jog, or trek. Mental stimulation is important for Airedoodles. In addition to his training and walks, the Airedoodle ideally needs a home with a fenced-in yard where he can burn off some energy. You can tame those high energy levels in any living situation so long as you dedicate time to play and activities. Are Airedoodles good guard dogs? The Airedoodle is one of the most outstanding watchdogs on the earth because of its vigilant attitude. They will scare away any prospective intruder with their loud bark and towering size. They are always on the lookout and can tell whether or not a visitor is welcome. Are Airedoodles good with kids? Airedoodles are great with children. Their sweet and gentle nature makes them the big, furry best friend that every kid wants. They are patient and non-aggressive which gives young children the opportunity to bond and learn how to care for an animal. Related Posts Interested in learning more about Doodles? Check out the complete Doodle breed guide. Kevin is a proud Bernedoodle owner and Doodle dog fanatic. Read how a chance encounter with two Bernedoodles spurred a lifelong passion here. If you want to get in contact with Kevin, you can send him a message. Their Airedoodle offspring can inherit either one of these or even a unique mix of the two. Because of that, Airedoodles will either have curly, wavy, or straight coats. The type of hair your fur-baby ends up with will dictate what grooming issues to expect and how much time you will need to either spend brushing them yourself or how often you will be heading off to the groomers. Poodles have curly, soft, single-layered coats that are much in demand for their so-called hypoallergenic properties. In fact, these are low-shed rather than no-shed dogs, and that comes with problems of its own. You will also need to take them more often for a trim. Airedale Terriers, in contrast, have short, wiry double-layered coats that do indeed shed. Your pal will likely lose their short, dense undercoat with the changing of the temperature and many days in between. This can be a real problem for some pet parents. You just might need to take care of the longer hair that can grow around their face, legs, and rear end. Finally, the third coat type is a wavy mix of the two — it can be long or short, soft, or wiry…pretty much anywhere on the scale between the two parents. This means you are really going to have to judge for yourself how often it will need brushing, washing, trimming, etc. However, they can be pretty tough to get hold of, being that they are not one of the most well-known or popular Doodle types. For this reason, you will likely need to hunt around for quite a bit to track down a breeder that specializes in Airedoodles. The good news is that they are far less likely to be the focus of scammers, backyard breeders, and puppy mills — all of whom should be avoided like the plague. Scammers will take your money without even having dogs, and the latter two will provide puppies that are in poor condition. See Also: Click the image With just a little research, you should be able to dig out a responsible breeder where you can purchase a super healthy puppy with excellent bloodlines. This will make all the difference in the long run. Start by checking out breeder directories from trusted expert dogs sites and reading plenty of online reviews from third-party sites to find the best facilities in your area. While there is really no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog, as people are sensitive to proteins found in the skin and saliva, a dog that sheds less is less likely to cause an allergic reaction. This is because there will consequently be less skin and saliva about the place. The amount your Airedoodle puppy sheds will depend on whether they end up with a Poodle coat or a Terrier one. This is very difficult to predict at present. Are Airedoodles good family dogs? Airedoodles, like most Doodles, make excellent family dogs for the right kind of situation. Airedoodles are often big and kind of bouncy, which older kids and teens will likely love. They will be able to play fetch and other active games for hours. However, they could be a little tough to take for smaller or quieter children with their boisterous, happy natures. These dogs do well with confident, active families who spend a lot of time outdoors. How big does an Airedoodle get? Depending on whether you have opted for a Standard or Mini Airedoodle, you are going to end up with a dog that is somewhere between 20 to 40 pounds with a height to the withers of 12 to 26 inches. Your Airedoodle will likely be on the larger side, though, as most breeders will probably choose to mate the similarly-sized Airedale Terrier and Standard Poodle — this is a far easier combination. Final Thoughts If you have come across the active Airedoodle and are intrigued by these distinguished dogs, then you might be wondering if they are the right kind of Doodle for you. If you have plenty of energy and time to take your new pup on long walks and care for their lovely coat, this could be a match made in heaven. However, if you spend most of your day out of the house, one of these loving, loyal dogs may not be for you. Only you can know what will work best in your home. Hopefully, though, the details provided here can help you make the right decision for both you and your potential future pet. You Might Also Like. Life Span Did You Know? The Airedoodle is a designer mixed dog breed that is a cross between an Airedale Terrier and a Standard Poodle. The Airedoodle is meant to inherit the best characteristics of both the parent breeds, but they could have any combination of characteristics from either or both of the parent breeds. Airedoodles tend to be friendly, intelligent, loyal, and energetic dogs with a big personality. Because the Airedoodle is a mixed dog breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. With any mixed dog breed, the puppies can inherit any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Airedoodles tend to be intelligent, friendly, and filled with personality. They tend to get along well with children as well as other dogs and sometimes other pets. They can have a stubborn streak and may have a high prey drive, but early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies. Overall, Airedoodles tend to make excellent family pets and watchdogs. Airedoodles are larger sized dogs with a high energy level, which makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. Because of this, they are best suited to larger homes with fenced-in yards where they can run. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Although they can have an independent streak if they take more after their Airedale Terrier parent, they still thrive on being with their families. They are also highly intelligent and can be easily bored, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. For the Airedoodle, potential health conditions can include skin issues, hip dysplasia, and bloat. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential health concerns. Both of the Airedoodle parent breeds are highly intelligent. This means they tend to pick up on training quickly. If an Airedoodle takes after its Poodle parent, they will be highly trainable and a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. If an Airedoodle takes after its Airedale Terrier parent, they can have a stubborn streak that may be an obstacle for first-time dog owners. Puppy training and obedience classes are recommended for novice dog owners to ensure training is effective and consistent. The Airedoodle is likely to have a low-shedding coat as both of its parent breeds have low-shedding coats. Professional grooming can help you take care of some of this, but you will need to take care of these grooming tasks as needed between professional grooming sessions. Nails that are too long can make movement painful, are more likely to split and crack, and increase the risk of getting caught on things. Dental care for dogs is another essential grooming task. Unfortunately, it is also often overlooked, which is why dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Just as you need to brush your teeth every day, the same is true for your dog. This helps prevent the tartar buildup that leads to dental disease like gum disease, tooth decay, or tooth loss. Daily walks plus some time to run and play are usually sufficient for this dog. A fully-grown Airedoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. An Airedoodle generally lives years. This hybrid dog breed is most commonly called an Airedoodle, but it is sometimes also referred to as an Airedalepoo. Featured Airedoodle Article.

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my first golden retriever puppy - Lifelong Customer Support Expert advice will be a phone call away. Northern Indiana based, Bruiser Bulldogs offers purebred English Bulldog Puppies for sale to loving adopters seeking to find a higher quality English Bulldog. As English Bulldog breeders , Mitch and Erica Wysong have dedicated themselves to a lifelong journey of changing the culture and societal pressures of poor breeding practices within the English Bulldog Community. Mitch and Erica believe in producing a healthy English Bulldog puppy first and foremost. Through years of research and development, Bruiser Bulldogs is leading a new movement away from the overdone, wrinkled bulldog that has been long plagued by health problems. By embracing a healthier, more athletic look they are able to ensure that each and every English Bulldog Puppy for sale by Bruiser Bulldogs is supported by a platform of health tested, clean genetics. Upon adoption, each family that takes on the responsibility of a Bruiser Bulldog enters into an active and vibrant communal family of bulldog owners. Mitch and Erica believe it is their responsibility to provide emotional and mental support for the lifetime of each and every English Bulldog puppy they produce. To ensure the success of every adoption, Bruiser Bulldogs will always be committed to helping Bruiser Bulldog adopters care for their English Bulldogs to the best of their ability. I am familiar with common and uncommon health problems they may face so when my boyfriend and I decided we were ready to adopt our own english puppy finding a reputable breeder that prioritizes health was most important to us. Erica and Mitch of Bruiser Bulldogs are just that. They are experienced, ethical and quality breeders. I was referred to them by my friend that I trust after I saw their gorgeous healthy puppy. Our Puppy Primrose is the light of our lives! Bruisers was there to assist us every step of the way. We would highly recommend Bruisers Bulldogs to anyone looking for their own happy, healthy pup! Leah H. We were lucky to have come across Bruiser Bulldogs and even more so the fact that they were near our family and hometown made it even better. We have had Clementine Callie for four months now, and she is a wonderful dog. Her personality is amazing, and I think part of it is breeding and the other part is Erika and her family lovingly raising the puppies in their home with plenty of attention and snuggles. I also was impressed that, rather than send the puppies out right at 8 weeks, Erika kept ours for a few extra weeks because she was tiny and not read to leave her mom yet. It's that care that differentiates Bruisers from other breeders. Emily R. Erica was easy to work with thru the entire process from application to adopting and now beyond as we host our new family member, Chief. Her on-call support and willingness to provide open, honest advice to all of our questions and concerns continues to be appreciated. We would highly recommend Bruiser Bulldogs to anyone looking for an English Bulldog to join their family. Elizabeth W. Lady L. They are experienced, responsive and knowledgeable about all things bulldog related. They went above and beyond for us and are truly dedicated to all of their pups! We love our little girl so much and would recommend Bruiser to anyone looking for a healthy beautiful bully. Jonathan E. Erica and Mitch are trustworthy, excellent communicators, fair, passionate, and produce the best bulldogs. We were at the top of the waiting list for months and Erica reached out every litter to see if we were finally ready for a bulldog. When we were, she was very easy to work with. Her knowledge on bulldogs is outstanding. We had many questions on the process and she always knew what was best for the puppy. We've had Penny formerly Blair for two months and she is very healthy, energetic, playful, and sweet. She is great with other people and dogs. We are so happy with our pup. When we are ready for bulldog 2, we will only consider Bruiser Bulldogs. Mitch C. Bowser was born April and is an integral part of our family. When we were first exploring English Bulldog breeders our biggest concern was the overall health of the dogs. We decided to work with Erica at Bruiser Bulldogs because we liked their focus on improving the breeds breathing abilities and the fact that the puppies are raised within her family environment before coming home with their new owners. Bowser also breaths clearly and our vet was impressed with his overall health from the moment we brought him home. All that said we know English Bulldogs have a predisposition to many health issues and that his current health can not predict the future. With that In mind its important to start with a breeder that open to answer any of your questions as Erica has ours, and that strongly believes in improving the breeds overall health profile. Adam B. My sister ended up finding Bruiser Bulldogs and we knew right away that they were the breeder for us. In September we ended up driving 9 hours to pick up two Bruiser bulldog puppies- one for my husband and I and one for my mom. Jackson and Penelope have been nothing but a joy. They are both very athletic and healthy. They are also HUGE snugglers and always want to be with you. It is an absolute pleasure having these two bullies in our lives! Erica is very knowledgeable about the breed. She is very hands on throughout the process and is just overall a kind and honest person to work with. With all that being said I cannot recommend Bruiser Bulldogs enough! Collyn C. One of the reasons we chose Bruiser Bulldogs was due to the claims about breeding for health. During our first visit at our vet's office, he told us that our pup was one of the healthiest English bulldogs he had ever seen. He is healthy, happy and social. Would recommend to anyone. Christina S. We seen our dog on their website and sent them an Email. Mitch called us and personally walked us through the process and made sure we had the right dog for our family. We couldn't be happier when we picked up our dog Ramsey, Erica made sure we had everything we needed and then some. They are truly amazing people who breed truly amazing dogs! Jim T. As English Bulldog Breeders, how do you breed for a healthier Bulldog? Like all things in life, breeding for health is simply a matter of priority. We are blind to many of the breed priorities that distract other bulldog breeders from improving the health of their Bulldog. We focus on health and personality and very little else. We are not interested in winning a blue ribbon in the show ring. Rather, we test for things like elongated soft palates, narrow tracheas, stenotic nares, luxation in the patellar tendons, heart defects, cherry eye, optic cilia, entropion, ect. We focus and prioritize creating healthy bloodlines, therefore our bulldogs are typically much healthier than the breed as a whole. After breeding for health, what other priorities are you focused on? Our true desire is to create the perfect family bulldog. We also believe a bulldog bred for the correct personality is essential to the family unit as well. A Bruiser Bulldog is bred for intelligence and playfulness. We want our bulldogs to be full of personality and some quirk. We believe a full personality along with a little stubbornness is the true North star of the bulldog breed and is what makes them unique among other breeds. We look for these personality traits in our adult bulldogs and continue to create bloodlines that reflect these qualities and produce high quality English Bulldogs for sale. I have been looking for English Bulldog Puppies for sale near me. Where are you located? We are located in the Northeast corner of Indiana. We just happen to be about 2. We are also about a 30 minute drive from the Michigan and Ohio state lines. Other major cities within 2. If you are looking for an English Bulldog puppy near you and happen to be in one of these areas we are certainly within close proximity. What if I am not located locally? Do you offer delivery services? A large portion of our adopters are located on the East Coast and Southern states. While many do make the drive to pickup, we also offer a delivery service to those with extremely busy schedules or limited ability to travel. We also utilize our own flight nanny for our West Coast adopters looking to have their puppy hand delivered. Whether through pickup or through delivery service, we try to be the type of bulldog breeder that is ethical and responsible to both our bulldogs and adopters. English Bulldog Puppies English bulldogs are among the most well-known breeds of bulldogs in the United States and arguably the world. According to rankings by the American Kennel Club in , this breed is the number 2 in the option for families to buy amongst a selection of dog breeds. These bulldogs have a long history stemming from their original use for bull baiting in Britain. Many people still see these as an old English bulldog and a cultural icon, and it is one of the most popular dogs you will see in England. They do have fierce determination, persistence and an underrated strength, and these are part of why many people love them so much for a family companion. British bulldogs naturally have wide heads and shoulders, flat faces covered with skin folds and thick flaps, and a shorter and higher muzzle than many other dogs. Their thick facial skin folds are also present under their neck, and their pointed teeth and endless snorting constitute a significant factor in the fierce and sometimes scary look they have become known for. So why should you go for an English bulldog? What exactly makes them so special and wonderful anyway? Well, here are a few things we love about this breed of bulldogs. The first and most important benefit to us is that English bulldogs are very good guard dogs. Despite their relatively small size, these dogs are not to be underestimated. Their aggressive nature from their history of bull baiting has been passed down from generation to generation of bulldogs, making them mean fighters to intruders. These dogs do not hesitate to leap into action and defend their owners when there is a threat. Another big benefit is that they are family-friendly and safe to be around your children. Despite the strength and aggression they show to outsiders, you can be sure that your well-trained English bulldogs are perfect family friends that can be around your children with low chances of danger. This very tolerant breed loves to keep a quiet and watchful eye over its owners and is very good at informing you when they sense something wrong. Their short, stubby legs also make for some very funny moments, such as their clumsy efforts to climb onto surfaces, like your couch or their dramatic pouts and faces. English bulldogs have a natural pranking streak that makes you laugh effortlessly. Coming home to unwind and having an English bulldog waiting for you to home is a definite stress reliever and mood elevator. We need to rectify that, and we have the perfect English bulldog puppies for sale for you to make your pick from. With an English bulldog puppy, you can have that beautiful bully that your kids can grow up with, and that can be a perfect companion and guard for your home. All our English bulldogs are the healthiest and cutest selection of breeds that you will find in the country, and this is a fact. We have decades of veterinarian experience and expert knowledge in this breed that has helped us monitor and facilitate the best studs and breeders to produce these beautiful English bulldog puppies. We have male and female English bulldog puppies, and there are a variety of ages that you can pick from, whether you like an eight-week-old puppy, ten-week-old puppy, week old puppy, or even older. Frequently Asked Questions How much exercise do English bulldogs need? English bulldogs are a low-energy breed and do not require a lot of exercise. A daily walk or play session of minutes should meet their physical needs. However, due to their short snouts, English bulldogs are prone to overheating, so it's important to avoid strenuous exercise or exercise in hot weather. Indoor play, such as fetch or tug-of-war, can provide them with physical and mental stimulation. Regular exercise is vital for their overall health and well-being. How to train an English bulldog puppy? Train an English bulldog puppy with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Early socialization and obedience training are important. Avoid punishment-based training. Find a trainer who understands the breed and its unique needs. Consistency and patience are key to success in training an English bulldog puppy. What are the key features that make Bulldogs special? Bulldogs are notable for their unique physical appearance, friendly and affectionate nature, and loyalty. They are low-energy and good with children, making them popular family pets. Their wrinkly faces and undershot jaw give them a distinct look, while their muscular build and confident attitude make them recognizable and loved by all. Where can I buy an English bulldog? English bulldogs can be purchased from various sources, including breeders, pet stores, and animal rescue shelters. When buying from a breeder, it's important to find a reputable one that's committed, knowledgable, follows ethical breeding practices, provides information about the dog's health temperament, and offers a written guarantee. At BigBullDogs. We offer the best service for purchasing the perfect bulldog puppies, and we have quality studs that have set us apart as the top breeders for bulldogs. Whatever it is that you need regarding these beautiful bullies, this is the right place for you. Here are the varieties we have; What You Need to Know About English Bulldogs English Bulldogs are very distinct from the other breeds of bulldogs and are the more prevalent breed. These sturdy, muscular dogs have a cute waddle walk that directly results from their short, stubby legs. The English bulldog also has a flat-looking face, dark and low set eyes, massive and broad jaws, and fleshy cheeks and lips that give it that signature pouty and droopy look. Its short neck, thick shoulders, and barrelled chest, slightly arched back make it one breed that you can easily identify anywhere. Our standard Male English bulldogs are inches and weigh an average of 50 pounds, while the Female English bulldogs weigh about 40 pounds. All our English bulldogs have the finest textured coats and healthiest skin with a variety of colour patterns. Whether you pick a male English bulldog or female English bulldog from us, you can be assured of their wonderful demeanor and gentle disposition. The AKC recognizes over dog breeds and rated the Bulldog as 2 for the best family dog breed. They are incredible family dogs but not the best watch dogs these days. The last nine decades of domestication has turned them into couch potatoes, considerably different from their original genetic breeding that made them perfect for Bull Baiting. Nevertheless they are fantastic at lying on the couch and giving you the stink eye when you disturb their rest. Quick Guide to French Bulldogs French bulldogs were named for their origin story, which says that they were a breed of English toy bulldogs and several unidentified dog breeds. They have distinct features that make them stand out against their English counterparts, such as their pointy, bat ears. French bulldogs are small, cute dogs that are very playful and perfect for being a home pet. Regardless of whether you pick the male french bulldogs or the female French bulldogs , you get a pet that is calm, attentive, attention-loving, and a partner to you and your kids. The male french bulldog is an estimated 12 inches in height and 25 pounds in weight. On the other hand, the female french bulldog is about 11 inches and 20 pounds. The male french bulldogs are usually a bit more muscular than females and have larger heads. However both are equally affectionate and super family oriented. Not to be outdone by their British Bulldog cousin, the female french bulldogs also made the Top 10 Best Family Dog breeds list in .Looking to Adopt Bulldogs? Life Span Did You Know? The loving and gentle English Bulldog is one of the most well-liked companion dog breeds around the world. A breed of English origins, the Bulldog was first recognized as a non-sporting dog by the American Kennel Club in .The original use of this breed was Bull baiting, which was eventually outlawed with the establishment of the Cruelty to Animals Act of .This legislative act made the act of Bull and Bear baiting both illegal. The current role most suitable for the English Bulldog would be as a companion or family pet, given their sweet demeanor. The English Bulldog is relatively easy to train but definitely takes some work for more complicated commands. If you are looking for a breed to sit, stay, and play dead for treats, this is the breed for you. While they may not be the sharpest tool in the shed compared to some of the other highly intelligent breeds, they are easy going and apt to please their owner. Training this breed will be accomplished with less difficulty if you make the training reward based. Can you say Sweetheart? While this dog breed makes an above average watchdog because of their courage, this breed is a loving companion at heart. The Bulldog is excellent with kids when socialized and should be very agreeable with guests of the house. The English Bulldog breed as a whole is heralded as one of the most well liked companion breeds in the world. The Bulldog should do well with other family pets as long as properly introduced and socialized. They need to be socialized early and often to curb any negative feelings towards strange dogs. This breed is generally agreeable to most environments. Although they easily adapt to a noisy and chaotic household, they are not very tolerant of extreme weather, whether it be hot or cold. Although they are well liked and very popular, one must be aware of the potential health pitfalls with this breed. Some of the potential issues you can see with the English Bulldog is Cherry Eye, Entropion, or dysplasia. This breed also has a high risk for weight gain, so this should be monitored. An average Bulldog life span is between 8 and 12 years. You do not need to be a professional dog trainer to own an English Bulldog. They are good for most novice owners because they are passive by nature. The English Bulldog is an average shedder, so brushing him twice a week with a firm brush will be a good idea. Also, they can have a tendency to drool, so making sure you wipe their face off everyday can help ensure they do not suffer irritation on their faces and between their wrinkles. Because of the amount of wrinkles they have, it is recommended that you clean between the wrinkles fairly often to avoid irritations. The English Bulldog is a generally low energy breed. They do not require a lot of exercise, but when they do play, they play hard! Because they can be intense when they do have an energy burst, an owner must be aware of overexertion. They can be very playful, but do tend to tire out quickly. The English Bulldog is a short, stocky breed that should weigh between pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. Presidents Calvin Coolidge and Warren G. Harding both owned English Bulldogs. Featured English Bulldog Article. English bulldogs for sale in texas "We pride our selves on making exceptional quality bulldogs" Health Guarantee We provide a limited 1 year health guarantee on your bulldog purchased from us. This helps guarantee the health of the bulldog. We want to make sure that our customers feel comfortable and trusted, when buying their English bulldog with us. The blueeyes Bloodline We have built up our English bulldog bloodline from scratch when we just started breeding 10 years ago. We have got colors such as Merle, blue, lilac, double chocolate, and features like Blue Eyes or exotic markings. One of the top canine color testers! This will assure you that what you see in the photo will be what you see when you meet us. We will guide you through every step from vet visits, to grooming, and feeding. If you are using your bulldogs to breed, we will also be their to help you with the process. As seen on.English bulldog puppies for sale As you can tell from our website, we mostly specialize in AKC English bulldogs for sale Texas and French Bulldogs for sale. Since we are a very small hobby breeder owning more than the breeds we already have will just overwhelm us and lower the quality of our dogs. Our main goals are to: 1. Make the breed have better health 2. Give a better quality of life to these amazing dogs 3. Give people the gift of owning a bulldog Some of the colors we offer are Lavender French bulldogs, Merle French bulldogs, Lilac French bulldogs , etc for our French Bulldogs. The Best Bulldog blog! Follow us on our bulldog blog where we frequently post tips, tricks, and new information about French and English bulldogs for sale. Additionally you can subscribe to our newsletter and stay updated on new Bulldog blog posts, and new French and new English bulldogs for sale on our website. We are trusted breeders for over 10 years, and have a lot of experience with English and French Bulldogs. So if you need some help go check out our bulldog blog and grow your knowledge of french and english bulldogs.