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These two breeds make for an interesting combination, as they are both working dogs with very different body types. This hybrid dog is also known as the Basset Shepherd. German Shepherd Basset Hound mixes are relatively easy to train and make excellent watchdogs, as they inherit the best traits from both parents. This mix is relatively new but is now gaining attention in the pet world. This is a program that welcomes mixed-breed dogs like Basset Shepherds to enroll and participate in dog shows and other dog activities. These dogs have only been around for the past 20 years and have no well-documented history. Fortunately, we can learn more about the origin and history of their parent breeds. This way, we can gain insights into what this mix is made of. For starters, their German Shepherd parent was developed in Germany during the 19th century as military dogs. They were recognized as great guide dogs and were used in search-and-rescue missions over the years. Meanwhile, their Basset Hound parents were created around the 16th century in France and were introduced to the United States in the early 19th century. With their amazing sense of smell, they were used for generations not only as companion dogs but also as hunting dogs. With the excellent qualities of both parents, Basset Shepherds make great family dogs that are loyal, brave, and eager to protect their owners. For instance, it tends to have the coloration and facial features of the German Shepherd while possessing the shorter legs and long body of the Basset Hound. They have floppy ears shorter than the Basset Hound, framing their pointed muzzles. Their brown eyes are lively and can surely capture your attention. Moreover, they typically have a brown body with a black blanket on their back and nose. However, like with many hybrids, the appearance of each Basset Shepherd may vary significantly, even if they have the same purebred parents. They can have the coat colors of a Basset Hound, while some may acquire the sable, black, or liver color of its GSD parent. Their weight is almost similar to that of a German Shepherd Labrador mix , typically between 50 and 80 pounds. Males are generally bigger, while females are usually smaller. Furthermore, while rare, some Basset Shepherds can grow to be taller than 20 inches. Between 12 and 18 months, most of these pups stop growing. In contrast, some may still grow until they are 24 months old. Overall, their weight and size can also vary depending on the traits they inherit from their Basset Hound and German Shepherd parents. It will be best if you are prepared to train and socialize with them frequently. But despite their stubbornness, they are very easy-tempered and non-aggressive. Furthermore, given the high energy level of this mix, early training and socialization will help keep them calm and well-behaved around other people and other dogs. This hybrid is attentive, fearless, and heroic, making it well-known for its guarding abilities and watchdog instincts. As a result, they are cautious of outsiders and are driven to notify their owners if they notice any intruder trespassing into their house. However, it could also depend on the health and lifespan of their German Shepherd and Basset Hound parents. As a designer breed, the Basset Shepherd has a stronger immune system and is less likely to contract breed-specific health issues. However, it can still experience various health problems, so you still need to be cautious. It could be a cherry eye. This happens when the tear gland pops out of place and becomes visible above the eyelid. Hip Dysplasia: According to the American Kennel Club, hip dysplasia can happen to any size or breed of dog, including the Basset Shepherd. It is a painful condition wherein the ball and socket joint suffers from abnormal development. Understanding the symptoms, causes, treatment, and prevention of hip dysplasia can be the key to keeping your dog healthy and at ease. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a condition that affects the spinal cord, where it gradually loses the ability to send impulses. If affected, the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix may have a hard time swallowing and controlling their facial movements. According to studies , German Shepherds are particularly susceptible to degenerative myelopathy. The most significant thing you can do to keep your pup healthy and happy is to be a responsible dog owner and learn about any health problems your fur baby might have. Of course, regular vet checks are also a must. Keeping a pup is a huge responsibility, but with their loving presence, raising one is surely worthwhile. Read along to learn more about taking care of your Basset Hound German Shepherd mix. Food and Diet Obesity and weight gain are two things to watch out for with this breed. Ideally, they should be fed 3 to 4 cups of dog food every day. Occasionally, you may give them treats or dog-friendly crackers. When choosing dog food for your Basset Shepherd, keep in mind that it needs a high-quality, protein-rich food containing 18 to 22 percent of protein for its overall growth and development. They also need the right amount of fiber, vitamins, and minerals in their bodies to maintain a healthy life. If you want to learn more, you can read our guide on German Shepherd feeding and Basset Hound feeding. These guides will give you an idea about how to properly feed a Basset Shepherd dog. Your Basset Shepherd might benefit from brushing twice a week and occasional baths. Since the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix has thick coats, you should watch out for possible fleas and ticks. Thus, it could lead to inflammation and infection. You may find that training and teaching your Basset Shepherd is easy. However, it may still require patience and effort, as they tend to be stubborn. Socialization training at a young age for this breed can help them create a positive connection with humans and other dogs and animals. This mix can have a lot of energy. Therefore, it will need tons of exercise. Providing one hour of exercise every day is recommended. Let your pup explore new places. Basset Shepherds love to go for walks and check out new sounds and smells, so this is an excellent way for them to get both physical and mental exercise. Their price is somewhat close to the price of a purebred German Shepherd or a purebred Basset Hound. Aside from the price of a Basset Shepherd itself, you also need to consider the following initial expenses: Type of Expense. Video of a Basset Hound Mixed with German Shepherd Temperament and Personality Obedient, intelligent, affectionate, and loyal like both its parents, they excel as amazing house pets. In some of them, you could also see the clownish instincts of the Basset Hound, keeping everyone in the house fully entertained. The Basset Hound German Shepherd mix is famed for its guarding skills and watchdog instincts all because of its alert, brave and courageous nature. This trait, therefore, makes them wary of strangers, compelling them to intimate their masters the moment they see any intruder trespassing into their domain or territory. They also have a good rapport with kids, though parental supervision is needed with the little ones. It gets along well with other dogs and cats, especially when brought up with them. Care Exercise Being a result of two of the most energetic dog breeds, the Basset requires a lot of activities like a long walk and sufficient playtime in a fenced yard on a regular basis to be mentally and physically energized. Grooming They too might shed heavily just as their parents and thus need a bi-weekly brushing using a rubber curry brush. Bathe it when it gets dirty and do not forget to trim its nails, brush its teeth, as well as clean its ears and eyes on a routine basis. Health Problems Some of the common health problems it suffers from include hip and elbow dysplasia, eye problems cherry eye and cataract and cervical vertebral instability. Training Though its intelligence is a boon for training, it could at times be difficult to handle and show the stubbornness and strong-willed nature of its parents. Giving the German Shepherd Basset Hound mix socialization training would help it distinguish between the good and the bad since an early age and also develop a good rapport with friendly people and all dogs. Obedience training and teaching of commands would help it to remain disciplined and well-behaved since its puppy days. Feeding Good quality dry dog food is essential to keep it in good health. If you are adding homemade food to its diet, make sure you consult the vet regarding the same. November 2, at pm We adopted a basset shepherd about 9 years ago. They estimated him at about 6 years old. That would put him at about 15 years old now, but he still acts like a puppy all the time. He is amazing with my kids. He never bites, but if they get to rough he will bark at them and we remind them that he did not like what they were doing and not to do it again. I do believe he is very sensitive around his hind legs, and seems to be going blind very slowly. This really is an amazing breed. I wish we would have had him since he was a puppy. However, you should know that these puppies can have very different temperaments depending on which side of their ancestry they get their behavioral tendencies from. You may find yourself with the equivalent of a German Shepherd or a Basset Hound, or you may get a combination of both. You should also be prepared to train and socialize your pup early on and often. This breed is highly intelligent but can exhibit a bit of stubbornness, so be prepared. Establishing a training routine from the beginning will help your dog learn rules and commands. While some dogs are simply good with children, Basset Shepherds really go above and beyond in their patience and understanding when it comes to children. However, these dogs are also high energy, so while they will never intentionally hurt a child, playing can get out of hand sometimes and lead to accidental injury. Always be mindful of this when your child plays with any dog. The Basset Shepherd will very likely inherit that drive to be productive and feel needed. Despite their desire to work, this breed also makes a wonderful companion dog. They Make Great Guard Dogs Your Basset Shepherd comes from two breeds that are regarded for their intelligence, so they inherit their smarts from both sides of their families. These two traits make for an excellent guard dog. This breed will love you and protect you unconditionally. Are These Dogs Good for Families? You should know that these dogs have a keen sense of leadership as we mentioned before. They will likely notice which person in your family they can consider a leader, and who they can consider an equal. These dogs are perfect for families who may have rotating shifts of people being home throughout the day. This breed loves interacting with their owners, so the more people that are around to give your pup attention, the better. They do have a moderate prey drive, so if you have small rodents your dog may not be a good fit for them. However, when it comes to living with dogs or cats, tolerance is the very least you can expect from this breed. If it has always been your dream to have a puppy and a kitten grow up together to be best friends, the Basset Shepherd is the perfect fit for you. Because these dogs can vary quite a bit in size, a smaller Basset Shepherd will be closer to two cups a day, while a larger one will need around three cups. Check with your vet as your puppy approaches their full size to get the best recommendation for your individual dog. Aside from proper feeding quantity and scheduling, just make sure you get a high-quality, high-protein dog food to supply your pooch with all of the nutrients they need to stay happy and healthy. In addition to normal playtime, you should expect to exercise your dog for about an hour every single day. You can get some treat puzzles or toys that require thought and experimentation to keep them entertained and engaged. A great combination of physical and mental exercise for this breed is to let them explore new places. They will love going on hikes or nature walks and being able to investigate unfamiliar sounds and smells. Like many aspects of this breed, you may find that your Basset Shepherd is a breeze to train and teach, and you may find that training takes some patience and effort. Whatever the case is with your individual Basset Shepherd, you can rest assured that your pup will learn quickly and understand you easily. Whether or not they choose to obey you right away is the luck of the draw! Either way, using positive reinforcement during routine and structured training sessions is the best way to get this breed properly trained. This means shedding, and a lot of it. To prevent matting and tangling and also to help cut down on the shedding, you should be brushing your Basset Shepherd with a rubber or wire brush at least twice a week. Bathing these dogs about once a month will help keep their coats clean and healthy, and you should keep up with cleaning their ears about once a week to prevent infection. Also plan to trim their nails once a month or so to avoid them cracking or breaking. Although not particularly common with this breed, tooth and gum issues can help be avoided with routine cleaning or providing them with chew toys that promote dental hygiene. Minor Conditions Eye issues including cherry eye Wobbler syndrome. Basset Hounds are known to be loyal sweethearts that bond closely with their families and are devoted to them. They are affectionate and playful. They tend to get along well with other dogs and children. But, they do tend to have a high prey drive, so they will need some extra socialization with any smaller pets in the household. You should be able to expect something similar in a Basset Hound Mix. The other parent breed could throw some other traits into the mix, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in person to get another perspective on what temperament to expect in your Basset Hound Mix. Basset Hounds tend to be highly adaptable dogs. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes. Due to their high prey drive and strong nose, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. After all, they are a hound dog! Although the other parent breed could affect some of these characteristics, you still want to be prepared for a Basset Hound Mix that takes after their Basset Hound parent. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier? They can be, but that is not a guarantee. A mixed-breed dog can inherit the potential health concerns from one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. From the Basset Hound side, some potential health concerns for a Basset Hound Mix could include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and glaucoma. Because of their long, droopy ears, Basset Hounds are also more prone to ear infections. If a Basset Hound Mix also has droopy ears, then they will also be more prone to developing ear infections. Basset Hounds are also at a higher risk for bloat. Also, reputable breeders screen their stock to avoid passing on issues to puppies, so you should be asking about the genetic and health history of both of the parents anyway. Although Basset Hounds can be a good fit for first-time dog owners, they can be stubborn. As such, puppy training classes are recommended. The other parent breed could be more easily trainable, but you will still want to be prepared for a potentially stubborn Basset Hound Mix. Regardless of owner experience or overall trainability of the dog, puppy training classes are still a good idea because they often offer opportunities to socialize a puppy. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a blend of both. Weekly brushing, regular cleaning of the face wrinkles, and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep their coat looking great. The other parent breed in the mix could result in more or less required grooming. Trimming nails on a monthly basis is usually enough to keep them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Since a Basset Hound Mix is likely to have droopy ears, they will be more prone to ear infections because their ears are more likely to trap dirt and moisture. Plus, if anything is happening, you can catch it early and get to the vet. Practicing good dental care for dogs is also important. Unfortunately, many dog owners overlook this, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. By using an enzyme toothpaste or brushing teeth every day, you can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. The Basset Hound is a playful dog that does not require a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. The other parent breed in the cross could result in a higher-energy dog in a Basset Hound Mix. A fully-grown Basset Hound tends to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent breed could affect this and potentially result in a smaller or larger dog. Asking the breeder about the other parent breed and meeting the mother dog can give you a better idea of what size to expect in a Basset Hound Mix. A Basset Hound typically lives years. Although the other parent breed may affect this slightly, you should be able to expect something similar in a Basset Hound Mix. Featured Basset Hound Mix Article.

Professional Grooming Bernedoodle Grooming Basics Grooming any dog can take time, and the Bernedoodle is no exception. Bernedoodles can have a few different types of coats , each of which can affect their grooming needs. The most common type of coat is either the curly or wavy coat. However, some Bernedoodles have straight coats, which do shed more. But no matter what type of coat your Bernedoodle has, weekly grooming is an essential part of their routine. Weekly Grooming The most important step in grooming a Bernedoodle is brushing. Like people, dogs need regular brushing to avoid mats and tangles in their fur. Brushing your dog consistently will also help keep their fur healthy and shiny. At a minimum, brush your dog at least two times each week. The brushing will help you get any dead fur out of their coat. If your Bernedoodle has a curly or wavy coat, consider brushing your dog more often. The curly and wavy fur has a higher risk of tangling, so you may need to brush three times a week or more to prevent that. If you notice that your dog needs more brushing, you can do that. How to Brush Your Bernedoodle Before you begin brushing your dog, you need to get the right type of brush. You can use a general dog brush for regular grooming , but you may need a special brush to tackle matted fur or other issues. In that case, you can use a universal slicker brush or a shedding blade. No matter what type of brush you use, you should give your dog a chance to examine it. Then, you can take the time to brush through their entire coat. You should make sure to brush their legs, head, and tail as well as their back and stomach. But if your dog starts to get scared, you can stop and come back to brushing them later. In some cases, they may start to find it relaxing. Monthly Grooming Even if you keep up with regular brushing each week, you should bathe your dog every so often. Every two months should be more than enough to keep their hair clean. However, if your dog gets into something and gets dirty, you can give them a bath in between their regular baths. Some dogs hate being near the water, and it can stress them out. So before you give your dog a bath, you should try to make it comfortable. How to Bathe Your Bernedoodle When it comes time to bathe your dog, include some toys or treats. You can also offer attention so that they associate the bath with something good. And the earlier you start giving them baths, the easier it will be for them to get used to it. Every two to four months, find your stash of dog shampoo. Look for shampoos with a good smell, and start with a small amount of it. This can cause health problems. If you have any issues, you can consult your local dog groomer for advice. Bathing a dog can be a huge ordeal. You have to make sure you have the right shampoo, and you have to keep your dog calm throughout the process. Luckily, you only need to bathe your Bernedoodle every two months or so, and that can help when the time comes for even more grooming. A professional groomer can make sure your dog is healthy, and they can address any problems they find. If your dog has an infection, a groomer can help you determine how to get rid of the problem. A groomer can also give your dog a nice cut, and there are different options you can choose. And if you want to show off the Poodle part of your dog, you can cut the fur around their back and belly while letting other areas grow out. Conclusion Properly grooming a Bernedoodle involves a few steps, from brushing to professional help. Whether you just got a Bernedoodle or have had one for years, you should know how to keep your dog in tip-top shape. So consider the steps mentioned above the next time you need to brush or bathe your Bernedoodle. I am a dog parent in Hot Springs Village, Ar. I created this site to help fellow Doodle owners with up-to-date information and tips for raising your puppy right! Post navigation. Grooming Your Bernedoodle Grooming Your Bernedoodle The Bernedoodle breed, also referred to as a Bernese mountain poo, is the product of a Bernese mountain dog parent and a poodle parent. This hybrid dog breed combines the best characteristics of both types of dog, such as the intelligence and low-shedding coat from its poodle part and the unwavering loyalty and laid-back demeanor of its Bernese mountain dog part. This combination of dog breeds also makes Bernedoodles irresistibly fluffy, with several variations in coat types. Of course, this means grooming your Bernedoodle should be done reglarly. Consider this your ultimate guide on how to properly groom a Bernedoodle , complete with a list of popular Bernedoodle haircuts you can choose to keep your furry family member looking its best. Keep reading to learn more about grooming needs. Except, of course, the fact that they require a substantial amount of grooming. More on that later. Keep in mind that grooming this breed is more than simply keeping its hair clean and trimmed. It also involves nail clipping, regular brushing and keeping its skin moisturized. For some people, the rule of thumb for Bernedoodle baths is whenever their pup starts to smell or becomes visibly dirty. Regular grooming will keep your dog happy and healthy. Bernedoodle Coats and Shedding As previously mentioned, Bernedoodles have different types of coats, and each coat type comes with different attributes. These are the different Bernedoodle coat types and what you can expect from them in regard to grooming. Straight coats are a characteristic of the Bernese mountain dog parent. A wavy-haired Bernedoodle will have a much softer coat compared to straight coats and be more prone to matting. Curly coats wool are a characteristic of a pure poodle parent. However, these coats need regular daily brushing because of their tightly wound curls, the coat type most susceptible to matting. The general consensus for weekly brushing is: Your dog needs a minimum brushing of twice a week to get rid of any dead or loose fur. As long as you commit to it a few times a week, it should be fine. Most Bernedoodle owners stick to two to three times per week, paying close attention to whether their dog needs an extra brushing session or two. You should bathe your Bernedoodle every two to three months and whenever they get into something dirty, like mud puddles. For both straight-haired Bernedoodles and curly-haired Bernedoodles, most groomers recommend you bring them in every four to six weeks for maintenance. However, a puppy is a different story and will likely take more effort on your part to train it to become accustomed to the process. The goal is to make brushing and bathing a positive experience for your Bernedoodle puppy so the process becomes easier each time you do it. To keep from scaring your puppy during bath time, pre-fill the tub or sink with lukewarm water before bringing it into the room. Be very gentle as you soak and wash it, giving more praise during the process. Refrain from scolding if it hesitates or is visibly afraid — this is an important part of their development, and fear can lead to anxiety issues later on. To do this, handle their paws beforehand, one at a time, increasing the amount of time each day. Once puppy vaccinations are complete, you can take them to the groomer. So, fill up the tub with lukewarm water, and be sure to soak it thoroughly before adding the shampoo. Give it a thorough rinse, then follow the same steps with the conditioner. Be sure to speak with your dog groomer first about what they recommend for your specific breed, as well as which services such as conditioning count as an additional option. Many Bernedoodle owners opt for a shorter haircut as it reduces at-home grooming time. You can also alternate Bernedoodle haircuts to try out different styles or get it ready for changing seasons. However, it will require more frequent brushing, especially if your Bernedoodle has curly hair. The Bernedoodle Summer Cut, as expected, is much shorter. The Bernedoodle Poodle Cut imitates the traditional look of a poodle and can become high maintenance, as the hair will be longer on some body parts. This cut works best on curly and wavy hair. The Bernedoodle Lamb Cut is another poodle hairstyle in which the hair is the same length all around with the face, feet and most of the tail shaved. Keep in mind that when you groom a Bernedoodle , it should be a bonding experience. So, learn to do it correctly and make sure you have the proper tools and the time to commit to your pup. Which quickly leads people to their next question. Do Bernedoodles need grooming? The frequency of professional grooming will depend on their hair growth and the appearance the owner prefers. Routine brushing, combing, and bathing should be done between groomer visits to keep their coat healthy and free of painful and damaging mats. Ok, so you know that your Bernedoodle will need to see a Groomer from time to time. It spreads the naturally occurring oils throughout their coat, giving it a nice healthy shine. Since Bernedoodles shed very little, they should be brushed regularly to avoid tangles in their coat, which will lead to matting. Mats can be extremely uncomfortable to the dog and damaging to the coat. That will leave them with a patchy and unattractive coat. Most owners find that brushing times a week does the trick. Daily brushing early on will help them get used to being brushed and make them more tolerable of being groomed. Bernedoodles have different coat types, and each coat type has different attributes. Generally, the curlier the coat, the less it will shed and more brushing it will need. Straight coats are similar to the Bernese and have a slight wave to them. These coats will shed more noticeably than the others. Wavy coats generally work well for most individuals allergic to dog dander. Wavy coats are much softer and generally easier to brush and less prone to matting. Curly coats are similar to the coat of a Poodle and generally do not shed. Curly coats are by far the best coat for people suffering from dog dander allergies. Because of their tightly wound curls, these coats need more frequent brushing and are the most susceptible to matting. Mats And How To Avoid Them Matting may seem like nothing more than a slight inconvenience, but they can become a big nuisance to you and the dog. Because of the long curly hair, you may not see the sores, but the dogs can feel them. They also have the potential to spread to the rest of the body and cause the dog a lot of pain and discomfort. Once it gets to this point, you may have no choice but to go to a professional groomer and possibly a veterinarian. Groomers typically charge more when they have to remove mats due to its time-consuming nature. Yet another reason to take good care of your Doodles coat. The best way to avoid mats is to brush the Bernedoodle regularly and properly. One common mistake, which often leads to mats forming, is not brushing all the way to the skin. Be sure that the brush or comb is not just touching the top layer of hair, but is making it all the way to the base of the coat. The length of the coat also plays into the frequency of brushing needed. Longer coats will likely need to be brushed daily to keep them healthy and tangle-free. The coat needs these oils to keep both the skin and coat healthy. The dog needs these natural oils to keep the skin moisturized and healthy. With that said, the Bernedoodle should only be bathed every three to four months. If your Bernedoodle spends a lot of time outdoors and has a love of water and mud puddles, you may find yourself bathing him more often. If you let the coat dry, you may find that you can easily brush out the dirt and avoid having to bathe the dog. Oatmeal formulas tend to be fairly gentle. Brushing your Bernedoodle regularly is a great way to keep his hair clean, avoid the need for unnecessary bathing, and grow your bond with him. Be prepared for the fact that most groomers, even the best out there, are not experts at grooming Bernedoodles. Also do this on the sides of neck, from under their ears down to their elbows. Using scissors, cut the body length to three inches. Use scissors to shape the front legs like tubes from the elbows down to the foot, and back legs from the top of the hock to the foot. Pick up the foot, turning it over, so that you can comb the hair over pads and scissor it even with the pads. Place the foot down flat and scissor around it. Then place the foot down and scissor around the foot. For The Tail Use scissors to cut the tail so that its hair is a little longer than the hair on the body. The tail should be nicely blended into the body. For The Head Use thinning scissors on the top of the muzzle, from the nose to the eyes. Comb hair on top of the head over eyes and scissor cut the hair until the eyes are showing. Use scissors to cut under the muzzle and on the side of the muzzle to blend it into the rest of the head. Also clip on the sides of the neck, from under the ears to the elbows. Pick up the foot and turn over, so that you can comb the hair over pads. Scissor cut the hair so it is even with the pads. For The Tail Scissor cut the tail so that the hair is a little longer than the hair on the body. For The Head Using thinning scissors, cut on top of the muzzle, from the nose to the eyes. Comb hair on top of the head over the eyes and scissor cut the hair until the eyes are showing. Scissor cut the muzzle so there are no long ends. Check out our Bernedoodle Haircuts board on Pinterest for pictures and ideas of different cuts. Related Questions When should a Bernedoodle first go to the groomer? This is usually around 16 weeks or 4 months of age. To make it a little easier on the pup, ask the groomer to not use the clippers the first time. Just have a clean-up cut done with scissors around the eyes and feet, the coat brushed, ears cleaned, and nails trimmed. Reserve the clippers until the second or third visit. How long will a Bernedoodle coat get? The Bernedoodle coat will grow to several inches if left unattended. Bernedoodles love attention and love spending time with their owners. They enjoy it so much that regular grooming may even become something they anticipate with joy. References Rupke, Sherry. Bernedoodles: A Head to Tail Guide pp. Sherry Rupke, Sandy Rideout. Kindle Edition. Related Posts:. LinkedIn Giving your dog a bath is an important part of his grooming routine. It helps rid your pet of dead hair and dirt to avoid infections and diseases. For those with Bernedoodles, you should bathe your berne once in 3 months. They need these oils to keep their skin healthy and moisturized. When their skin gets dry, they would feel uncomfortable because it would cause itching and pain. Bathing also depends on the lifestyle and activity level of your dog. If he likes to go outside and play in the dirt, then you should bathe him more often. But if your berne just usually stays indoor, then you can follow the recommended bathing schedule for your doggo. In place of bathing, you can brush his coat frequently instead to keep it healthy and free of mats. When you give your Bernedoodle a bath, make sure you use dog shampoo or conditioner especially formulated for sensitive skin. You can bathe your pet by yourself or take him to the groomers. But as furparents, it is recommended that you know how to give your Bernedoodle a bath. It can save you big bucks and provide a great bonding activity between you and your pet. Your pet loves spending time with you even if that time is bath time. Get him used to his grooming routine so that he will learn to relax and even look forward to these moments. Remember to keep him calm and relaxed so you can make bath time an enjoyable experience for the both of you. Preparing Pups for Grooming The first step in grooming your puppy is preparing them for the grooming process. Your pup needs to be properly desensitized to a variety of stimuli such as running water, blow dryers and having their paws handled. It is important that you introduce your puppy to these experiences early on and in a kind manner so that they only associate these practices with positive experiences. Many puppies are afraid of the sound of running water, so try to have your sink or tub pre-filled prior to bathing your puppy. Be gentle with bathing your puppy and reward positive behavior with lots of love and praise. Do not be rough to your puppy in the bath or scold them for being afraid. Another experience that may be strange to your puppy is brushing. Your puppy will probably be unsure of what to think about having their hair brushed. Having their nails clipped is an unusual experience for all dogs, so it is best to prepare them early. Your Grooming Checklist In between professional grooming sessions, your Bernedoodle will require some maintenance care at home. The biggest one is daily maintenance of their coat. Bernedoodles have a hair coat, which means they are little-to-non shedding, however that can lead to matting of their coat over time if not properly maintained. Brush your Bernedoodle daily with a brush or comb. We love and highly recommend the Greyhound Comb! Your Bernedoodle may need bathing in between grooming appointments, but be careful not to over bathe! Most people think their pooch needs a bath once a week, however, too many baths can lead to dry, itchy and uncomfortable skin. If your puppy does suffer from dry skin especially in the colder months we recommend using a tea tree shampoo to soothe them! Always look for any unusual bumps, cuts or rashes when bathing your dog. First Trip to the Groomer! Once your pup has been fully vaccinated around weeks it is time for their first trip to the groomer! Even if you do not want your pup to receive a full groom at this time, we think it is very important to take your pup to the groomer anyway. Even if it is just for a quick bath and blow-dry, the earlier you can expose them to this practice, the more likely they are to acclimate to it without fear. We suggest taking your pup to the groomer every weeks for a professional bath and blow-dry. It is important to go with photos in mind of what you would like your pooch to look like. If you prefer a longer coat, remember that your upkeep is going to be much greater! Your groomer will be able to suggest to you different clipping options best suited for you and your Bernedoodle. Professional grooming should be done every weeks, with regular at-home maintenance in between. If you are ready to add a Midwest Bernedoodle to your family, please visit our available puppies page for updates on upcoming litters and open reservations. If you have any questions, feel free to check us out on Facebook or shoot us an email. We look forward to helping pair you with your new best friend! This has many benefits such as being a hypoallergenic breed, having a non-shedding coat and other various health advantages. Taking proper care to groom your Bernedoodle well and often is an important facet of dog ownership in regards to this breed. Neglecting to do so can lead to serious health risks and all round lower quality of life for your four legged friend. Why is it so important to groom your Bernedoodle? Not properly grooming your Bernedoodle comes with serious health risks. Since a Bernedoodles fur is non-shedding, they can have various lengths of coats depending on how frequently they are getting haircuts. But all coats are prone to matting. Mats tend to form close to the skin and can cause itchiness, sores, and rashes. This also can trap heat causing your dog to overheat easier in hot temperatures, leading to heat stroke or dehydration. These mats can also become home to parasites like mange that can harm your dogs. The good news is all of this is easily prevented with good grooming habits. Bernedoodles are no different. However grooming helps keep your allergies down as well as keeping your dog healthy and fresh. The main causes of dog allergies come in the form of fur, saliva, and dander. Unkempt coats are going to carry more of all 3 of those things making those of us with allergies that much more sensitive to our favorite furry friends. Nature also tends to use animals with bushier coats to spread things such as seeds, pollen, substrates, and insects. Yet again these can be things that cause your allergies to flare. Grooming is also a bonding experience for you and your dog. Dogs, and by extension Bernedoodles, know who is taking care of them. Regardless of if they seem to appreciate it in the moment. This is an often overlooked part of the chore that can make it rewarding. Spending time with your dog in this way is undoubtedly one of the best activities to have some quality time and strengthen your bond. Bathing and Grooming your Bernedoodle Bernedoodles as a breed tend to enjoy water and that extends to baths. They might get bored and want to relax however, making the job that much more difficult. Bring something to engage the dog and reinforce good behavior, like treats for example. It can also be solved by working quickly and efficiently. A lesser known trick to speeding up bath time is taking a bottle with a spout and filling it with a mixture of hot water and dog shampoo concentrate. Shake well and apply to the dog while they are still dry. Apply to the back, legs, chest, stomach, rear, and head. Then lather into the fur with your hands and rinse thoroughly. This can quicken bath time and prevent boredom. Once your dog is squeaky clean make sure to hand dry with a towel or two, and finish the damp areas with a blow dry on low heat. Some dogs have a higher tolerance for this than others but frequent practice and positive reinforcement at an early age are paramount to conditioning your Bernedoodle to enjoy every part of bath time. Bath frequency can vary depending on your own personnel needs as well as the dog's needs. Brushing a doodle's coat is an important cornerstone of caring for your doodle, and or Bernedoodle. The more often you comb your doodles fur the easier it will be. Less tangles and mats will form with frequent brushing. Coat length is also a factor here and longer coats require more attention. Investing in a solid wire brush and comb is all you need for this portion of grooming. Haircuts are another facet of Bernedoodle care. Since they are a non-shedding breed their fur will continue to grow and grow. Haircuts are important for three main reasons. Second and third are the health concerns. Dogs get hot and more fur on their body will trap more heat. More about bernedoodles:.

If not, it might be because this short-nosed dog breed is one of the most rare in the world. Campeiro bulldogs are incredibly loyal, and smart too! While campeiro bulldogs are not very tall, they are big boned, weighing as much as seventy to ninty pounds. The campeiro bulldog is incredibly brave and will do anything for his master and family pack—so much so campeiros lean towards being the jealous type. Campeiro bulldogs were originally working dogs, breed for stamina and strength to help out around farms in the rural mountains of Brazil. It is here that the campeiro bulldog was breed to better met the needs of the local people. Since the land is hard to navigate and includes long journeys, the campeiro bulldog was breed to be durable, capable of going long distances to fetch cattle, or round up pigs. Interestingly, when taller campeiro dogs were breed, the dogs lost their natural skill to hunt prey properly, this got a few dogs injured from high-flying horns and kicking hoofs. Therefore, the shorter size proved better for the breed. Campeiro bulldogs have a wide strong muzzle that characterizes their adorable face. This dog is so rare because for the longest time only a few existed, all working on rustic farms around slaughterhouses in the mountains of Brazil. That is until Mr. Ralf Schein took an interest in the breed, and decided to embark on an adventure bulldogs everywhere are proud to bark about. While traveling across the mountains in search of the last remaining campeiro bulldogs, Schein encountered many natives that spoke of the campeiro bulldogs admirable persistence and ability to endure long trips without ever tiring out. If your dog does a lot of exploring, like this campeiro bulldog, make sure his or her paws are smooth to the touch. For cracked, rough paw pads dogs love Paw Soother and PawTector. Once he was able to find some of the last campeiro bulldogs, he began a rescue foundation with a mission to repopulate the breed. As a responsible breeder, Schein realized that this select group needed new blood for proper breeding, which is why he chose to breed the campeiro with pure breed English bulldogs. Schein has worked tirelessly to preserve the natural beauty of the unique camperio bulldog. Look at the soft, smooth dog nose! If your bulldog suffers from a dry, crusty dog nose try all-natural Snout Soother —and you are guaranteed a lot of moist kisses in return! At first sight one might be intimidated by the powerful stance of the campeiro bulldog, but upon getting to know one you will see just how sweet and loving they are. So long as no one tries to challenge the campeiro dog, they are calm and collected. The campeiro bulldog is relatively slight on complications, and able to adapt to many climates. Although, turns out they do just fine in freezing climates too! Although, like many other short-nosed dogs, the campeiro bulldog can be prone to dry dog noses and crusty nose folds. While this can be aesthetically displeasing, it can also cause your dog discomfort and a decreased sense of smell. To give your bulldog the relief they deserve, our all-natural dog product Snoot Soother is proven to do the trick, providing a soothing solution for dry bulldog noses. Within days of your first application, the differences will be noticeable to both you and your beloved canine. Every dog has a story, and behind every dog is a whole heritage of tales. We love hearing about them all at Natural Dog Company, where our mission is simple: soothe, heal, wag! Share On:. I'll receive a small commission when you purchase from my links at no extra cost to you. For the full scoop of what this means, please read my affiliate disclosure. The Brazilian Bulldog is an obedient and tenacious dog with great guarding instincts. If you want to learn more about this breed, keep reading! Breed overview: Campeiro Bulldog, the Brazilian Bulldog Breed FCI recognized: No, but recognized by the CBKC Group: 11 — Breeds not recognized by the FCI Weight: Female: 68—82 lbs 31—37 kg , Male: 79—93 lbs 36—42 kg Height: Female: 19—21 in 48—54 cm , Male: 20—22 in 50—56 cm Coat: Short and smooth Color: Fawn, brown, and brindle with white markings Life expectancy: years Etymology Campeiro means fielders in Brazilian Portuguese and is a term widely used in the south of the country for those who work in the rural fields, especially those who work with cattle. There is not a consensus about its origins. Either way, because livestock has always been essential for the economy in the south of the country, the Brazilian Bulldog was widely used to capture wild cattle and to handling cattle in slaughterhouses, similar to the Brazilian Mastiff. It has a broad head and holds an imponent posture. Its triangular ears are small-sized and floppy, and its muzzle is short and wide. The females grow up to 21 in 54 cm in height while an adult male stands at about 22 in 56 cm. Its fur is short and smooth, and it could be in a variety of colors. The most common are brown, fawn, and brindle with white markings. Temperament and behavior Despite its aggressive look, the Brazilian Bulldog stands out for its loyalty to its owner, tenacity, and courage. Its temperament is vigilant and calm, with a strong companionship sense and an accentuated spirit of a warrior. It is a versatile dog with guarding instincts, making it an excellent guard dog. The Brazilian Bulldog is obstinate to cross any hurdle while being controlled enough to show a high degree of obedience to the commands of its master. Common health issues As a rustic breed, the Brazilian Bulldog is prone to some bone diseases, but it can be avoided with proper care. Despite the fact some Campeiro Bulldogs dogs suffer from severe hip dysplasia, overall, the condition affects only a few dogs. Apart from this, there are no other diseases specific to the Brazilian Bulldog that affect the breed on a large scale. It is recommended to prevent external and internal parasites through vermifuge and combat infectious diseases through vaccination. Care The Brazilian Bulldog requires very little care as it sheds very little. Beyond that, it has a high energy level, so if not involved in handling cattle or other types of fieldwork, it should exercise daily. Regardless, this breed, just like any other, requires lots of love and affection. Diet and nutrition The amount a mature dog eats depends on its age, size, body structure, metabolism, and obviously, activity level. Each dog is unique, just like people, and they need different amounts of food. The Campeiro Bulldog is medium in size and is highly active. So, its diet should be formulated for a medium-sized breed with high exercise needs. You can also consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations. Children and other pets While the Campeiro Bulldog, just like the Brazilian Dogo , might have an aggressive appearance due to its muscular body structure, this breed is very docile with children. It is also an easily adaptable dog. It is cautious with strangers, but the Brazilian Bulldog is relatively friendly with other people after getting acquainted. It usually gets along very well with other pets. Health Campeiro Bulldog Characteristics The Campeiro Bulldog is a medium-sized breed with very beautiful appearance and powerful physical complexion. The Campeiro Bulldog is a dog of broad constitution and an almost square shaped muscular body. The breed typically carries a broad head, and it has heavy bones. These dogs have short muzzle, small and pendants ears inserted high on the head as far apart of each other as possible. They have short and crooked tail. They have smooth short hair, and their coat could be in a variety of colors. Traditional coat colors of the Campeiro Bulldog are brown, fawn and brindle with white markings. Although, there are dogs that are entirely white, but they must have pigmented mucous membranes and eyelids, to avoid problems while working. Average body height of the mature dog is between 19 and 23 inches at the withers. And their average live body weight is between 35 and 45 kg. Their rusticity and courage make them excellent guard dogs. These dogs can be a bit jealous. They are suspicious of strangers and quiet, and they are known for not barking unnecessarily. Lifespan Average lifespan of the Campeiro Bulldog is between 10 and 12 years. The Campeiro Bulldogs are medium in size and are moderately active. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium-sized breed with moderate exercise needs. You can also consult with a vet in your area for better recommendations. Caring Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Campeiro Bulldog dogs. These dogs need some daily exercise, if not directly involved in dealing with cattle or another type of work. Health The Campeiro Bulldogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds , they are also prone to certain health conditions. Their common health problems include hip dysplasia, and parasite problems. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.

Written by Wen Duan Golden Retrievers are a joy to be around and in our slightly biased opinion make the most photogenic and hilarious memes. If you love the friendliness, intelligence, and devotion of a Golden Retriever, then you'll love golden retriever memes. I've scoured the internet for the best Golden Retriever memes that made me laugh out loud and had to share the joy! Here are 25 more reasons to love Golden Retrievers! Golden Retrievers sees our hypocrisy. Golden Retrievers are the smartest blondes. Golden Retrievers are better than all of us. Goals 6. Definition of FOMO 8. Cuteness makes puppies tired. Be my friend! I needs all the friends. Golden Retrievers are too smart for their own good. Golden Retriever's love is unconditional. Things just happen sometimes. Yes, please! We did! Disappointment personified. Golden Retrievers are the best investment. TakeMyMoney .Goldens like to be pampered too. What do we have here? Golden Retrievers loves all the treats! I don't know about a new sibling. We all need one of these when we don't have our dogs with us.The end! Have any memes you'd like to share? Which one was your favorite? Comment down below. I want to know! Sometimes they try to imitate your behavior, and sometimes they just seem hilarious. Just imagine that your golden retriever is trying to sit like you or eat like you. Golden retrievers are funny, innocent, and adorable creatures. Golden retrievers are excellent companions. They make hilarious, innocent, cute faces. You cannot just ignore your golden retriever. They can instantly grab your attention. You cannot ignore a golden retriever trying to eat something from your fridge. Golden retrievers follow their owners wherever they go and act like humans. Golden retrievers seem funny because they try to enjoy every moment. Imagine a golden retriever trying to dance or getting caught while eating food from the fridge. If you are sad and need something to make you happy, you need to watch these 10 funniest golden retriever memes. Golden retrievers are emotional beings; they can get too attached to their owners. Your golden retriever may become happy or sad when you adopt a cat. Golden retrievers have their own place in the family, and they do not want to lose their place to another pet in the family. We know that families with a golden retriever do not intend to ignore their dogs. This picture shows two golden retrievers hugging and consoling each other because their family got a cat! In this picture, we can notice our favorite golden retriever with wide-open eyes. Yes, you heard it right. This golden retriever seems surprised as if he has seen or heard something unexpected. The picture says that the therapy dog after I share all my problems. This is funny. I mean, even a therapy dog cannot remain calm after hearing all of my problems. Meme 3 You know, dogs and kids have a special relationship. They both love you, and they can be very naughty. They enjoy doing things behind your back, and they may shift the blame on each other. In this picture, you can notice the dog and the boy standing next to a wall. Ah, you can notice the vacuum cleaner running in the back. They try to mimic you and do things as you do in every situation. Sometimes, a dog can be hilarious. And, he is looking toward you as if he is saying something. You are just holding the steering wheel of my car and trying to drive it, you professional driver! Meme 6 Dogs are so innocent that sometimes you have to take care of your dog. Sometimes, you have to protect your adorable companion. But your dog might just look for something else. He may act like a baby! Did you ever try to carry your dog like a baby? In this meme, we can see a man carrying a dog, and the dog is looking toward the ground. They can be cool companions for a good tour. It is funny to know that your dog can prepare himself for a tour like a true traveler. You need sunglasses and a backpack for the tour. How will you feel if your dog wears a backpack and sunglasses? In this picture, you can see a dog ready for a tour. You can notice him wearing a backpack and sunglasses. He looks cool, right? You may try to stop your dog from trying to do one thing, and he might just do another. Dogs can even act as if they are ignoring you and continue doing whatever they like to do. I must dance. Meme 9 No one can run as fast as your dog. Dogs love food, and your dog might just run crazy for food. In this meme, you can see your dog running towards something with his mouth wide open. It seems that the dog is running for food. I heard the fridge door is open! A DVM by profession, I have treated and cured thousands of dogs, if not millions. Tumblr Do golden retrievers have a high IQ? This means that they are able to learn a new command in five repetitions or fewer, which is very impressive! The border collie is widely recognized as the smartest dog breed. They are known for their high intelligence and ability to learn new words. Chaser, a border collie from South Carolina, is said to be able to recognize over 1, words. Some of these reasons include their inherent personality traits. Golden retrievers are confident and extroverted, which makes them great companions. They are also known for their loyalty and intelligence. All of these traits combined make golden retrievers great pets. He is much loved by his owner and remains living in the city of Chiba in Japan. Kabosu is a true inspiration to all of us and we hope he continues to enjoy a long and happy life. What is the most googled dog? They are also known for their short noses and stocky build. Bulldogs make great family pets and are often used in therapy and assistance work. A doge was an elected, chief magistrate of the former Republic of Venice. His human, Sara Hamilton, thought his dark gray speckled coat looked like an Oreo McFlurry dessert and that is why he is also known as Oreo Cloud. See also Guy crying with gun? Which Golden Retriever is best? The American Golden Retriever is considered the general standard of the breed. While there are similar Canadian and British counterparts, the American is the most popular. The American Golden Retriever has a rich gold coat. The shades of gold can vary slightly but can be neither too light nor too dark. Big and hungry, this breed gets big pounds and will gladly get bigger if overfed. Needs vigorous exercise and a lot of it daily workouts of minutes are a must for this breed. Holy shed, not great at being alone in an apartment all day. Prone to certain health problems.

Before and after photos of German shepherds growing up are the sweetest thing By iHeartDogs. German shepherds are particularly well-liked. Some people even equate count their dogs as their children. Here are some photos of German shepherds both when they were young and as they got older. And while maybe not as cute, photos of an older pet shows all of the wisdom learned with age etched across their faces. Before-and-after photos are a great way to keep up with the memories Instagram - montythegermanshep Source: Instagram - montythegermanshep These before and after photos of your much-loved dog are like those taken by a doting parent. You capture them at various points in their life, from child to adult, so you can look back and reminisce about how they were before and after they grew up. Dog lovers everywhere, rejoice! Source: Instagram — whiskey. The German shepherd breed, in particular, is notable for its popularity. Their noble stature and wolf-like features, as well as their loyalty, make them a favorite dog breed of many. This is due in part to their over-large ears and their cuddly look. But, before you know it, they are all grown up. A magical transformation Source: Instagram - tuscanbear The transformation from puppy to adult is magical, as they grow from adorable puppy into the gentle giants that they become. And before you know it, they are no longer little, but at least you were able to capture their transformation in the pictures you took. For a perfect example of just how much a German shepherd can grow, check out the video below! About the Author iHeartDogs. The page quickly grew to over a million fans and in , Justin cofounded iHeartDogs. Inspired by their passions for helping shelter dogs and supporting our veterans, Justin and Marshall built a line of products that give back to shelters and raise money to provide service dogs for veterans in need. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. Though they typically only average nine to thirteen years, those years can be very memorable and special to dog and owner. Along the way, there are several German Shepherd growth stages that they will encounter including several fun and exciting breakthroughs. They will go through many different levels of development stacking up in inches and packing on the pounds. German Shepherd Growth Stages: This article will cover in detail, all of the month-to-month growth stages including their size from 1 month old to 3-year-old. It will also include important milestones along the way. This is the puppy portion of the German Shepherd growth stages and these cute little fur balls are beginning their journey into the new world. They are independent, spry and ready to explore! They are starting to grow but stand no taller than half a foot. Cuteness Factor: Through the roof! Height: Male: 4 — 6 in 11 — 16 cm Female: 3 — 6 in 8 — 14 cm Weight: Male: 5. They stand up for the first time. They start exploring independently and playing. Bowel movements are partially controlled. Light barking and growling begin. Puppy teeth should be filling in. This is a good time to introduce them to some kibble. They may or may not be interested. Month 2: Socialization Growth Stage Once the fuzz balls reach month 2, they start socializing more with other animals and people. This is also the time that their little chompers should be complete. They have grown up a little but still remain under a foot tall. Cuteness Factor: Just look at my ears! Height: Male: 7 — 9 in 17 — 22 cm Female: 6 — 9 in 14 — 22 cm Weight: Male: 16 — 20 lbs 6 — 9 kg Female: 11 — 17 lbs 5 — 7. They start to bond with animals and people. Their mental development starts to speed up. Fear reaction begins. They are typically ready to find their forever home. Food: Weaning should be wrapping up at this age. They should transition to a diet of puppy kibble. One and a half cups total three times a day is recommended but stick to a solid schedule. Vaccines: Puppy should have distemper and parvovirus by this time. Teething will be in full force at month 3 and their adult canines and incisors will start to push through. Those cute little fluffy ears may start to go up and down. They will start to lose their puppy coat and you may notice a racing stripe on the spine where the adult hair is starting to grow in. At this point they have almost made it to the height of a standard ruler. Cuteness Factor: Equal to fluffy pillows! Height: Male: 9 — 11 in 23 — 27 cm Female: 8 — 10 in 20 — 25 cm Weight: Male: 22 — 30 lbs 10 — 14 kg Female: 17 — 26 lbs 8 — 12 kg Milestones: Ears begin to stand up. Teething stage begins and continues for several months. Lots of biting and chewing ensures. Potty training and socialization should be consistent. Puppy fuzz begins to be replaced with adult double coat of fur. Food: Two cups of puppy kibble total three times a day is recommended. Vaccines: DHPP which includes distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus are recommended. Month 4: At this point GSDs will be very playful and getting into some trouble. They have left puppy hood and become adolescents. Multiple skills will be developing as they learn, socialize and train. Height: Male: 11 — 14 in 29 — 35 cm Female: 10 — 12 in 26 — 31 cm Weight: Male: 35 — 40 lbs 16 — 18 kg Female: 31 — 35 lbs 14 — 16 kg Milestones: Ears continue to perk up. Teething continues as adult teeth come in. They continue to play and explore everything around them. Training continues as they constantly learn. Food: Puppy should continue to eat two cups of kibble total three times per day. Vaccines: DHPP and rabies are recommended. Month 5: At 5 months of age, they are still growing fast and should have gained close to 10 pounds. They are still in the juvenile stage and have plenty of energy to go around. They are looking much more like an adult but still have that puppy spirit. Ears may have perked up at this point. Cuteness Factor: Cute as pumpkin pie! Height: Male: 14 — 16 in 35 — 40 cm Female: 12 — 14 in 31 — 36 cm Weight: Male: 40 — 49 lbs 18 — 22 kg Female: 35 — 44 lbs 16 — 20 kg Milestones: Ears may be standing up. Adult features are filling out. They are at least half of their adult size. They are still teething. Sexual maturity begins to emerge. Food: Juvenile should still be eating around two cups total three times a day. Month 6: Adolescent Growth Stage At 6 months old, they are making their way into the adolescent part of the German Shepherd growth stages. They will be starting to get into their sexual maturity stage which will last until they are around two years old. Hormones will kick in and males will begin to mark their territory and look for females to mate with. Females may go into heat for the first time. Their adult coat should be completely grown in but it could take a bit longer. Cuteness Factor: Equivalent to a teddy bear! Height: Male: 16 — 18 in 41 — 46 cm Female: 15 — 17 in 37 — 42 cm Weight: Male: 49 — 57 lbs 22 — 26 kg Female: 44 — 49 lbs 20 — 22 kg Milestones: Ears should be standing up. Adult features are more filled out. They are sexually active and will begin marking their territory and roaming for mates. Teething should be close to finished and all 42 of their adult teeth should be almost grown. Full adult double coat of fur should be present. Food: Adolescent should be eating around two to three cups total two times a day. Month 7: At 7 months old , a German Shepherd should be well developed cognitively. Their sexual maturity continues, and your leg may just become their next mate. Some aggression may be present as their hormones go up and down. Their weight gain begins to slow down for the first time only adding around 5 pounds from the previous month. They are looking much more like an adult dog. Aggression and sexual maturity continue. Teething should be close to finished. Food: Adolescent should be eating two to three cups total two times a day. They are still maturing and could still be aggressive and bark or lunge at other dogs, kids or people. This behavior must be reined in with the proper training. Teaching them new tricks is a great way to curb their aggression. Cuteness Factor: Still able to melt your heart! Height: Male: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Female: 18 — 20 in 45 — 50 cm Weight: Male: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Female: 53 — 57 lbs 24 — 26 kg Milestones: Ears should be well formed and perky. They continue to transition into adulthood. They are still maturing, and aggressive behavior may be present. Teething should be finished, and all of their adult teeth should be grown. Month 9: At 9 months old, German Shepherds have reached most of their milestones. They should be sporting a full set of 42 adult chompers and some nice big perky ears. They are still maturing sexually and could be exhibiting aggressive behaviors, but training should be in full force. Cuteness Factor: Not puppy cute but still irresistible! Height: Male: 21 — 23 in 54 — 59 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 64 — 71 lbs 29 — 32 kg Female: 55 — 60 lbs 25 — 27 kg Milestones: They are still growing but only gaining a few pounds a month now. Month By 10 months of age, GSDs are still trucking along in the adolescent stage. They will still be acting like teenagers and may be getting into some trouble. Although clever and smart they will sometimes act clumsy and goofy. They are still learning and should be in training. Cuteness Factor: Cute and nutty like peanut butter! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 73 lbs 30 — 33 kg Female: 57 — 62 lbs 26 — 28 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Month Moving into month 11, German Shepherds are becoming more and more adult but may be stubborn. They may start to challenge their owner with respect to leadership. They need to know that you are in charge and that they must respect your commands. Training and reinforcement is crucial during this time period. Cuteness Factor: Cute enough to get out of trouble! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 57 — 62 cm Female: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 75 lbs 30 — 34 kg Female: 60 — 64 lbs 27 — 29 kg Milestones: They are still growing slowly. Month 1 year old German Shepherds are moving out of the puppy phase of the German Shepherd growth stages and into adulthood. By now they have most likely formed a strong bond with their owner. They may still misbehave occasionally but proper training should be paying off. Food: Adolescent should transition to adult food and be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: DHPP, rabies are recommended. Year 1. They are getting closer to sexual maturity. Cuteness Factor: Furry and plushness overload! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 55 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 79 lbs 32 — 36 kg Female: 60 — 66 lbs 27 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Food: Adolescent should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Year 2: At 2 years old, they should be well along in their journey to adulthood. With the proper training and socialization, they should be transforming into the alert, confident, courageous, loving and loyal German Shepherd companion that makes them so popular among dog owners. They are pretty much full grown at this point with only a few more pounds to pack onto their athletic frame. Cuteness Factor: Perfectly precious! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 57 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 84 lbs 32 — 38 kg Female: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but almost full grown. Vaccines: DHPP is recommended. Year 3: Adult Growth Stage Your German Shepherd is finally an adult with all of the beautiful characteristics and traits that people admire. They have reached physical and sexual maturity and are ready to brave the new world. Consistent training should have payed off. They should be calm and well disciplined. Height: Male: 24 — 26 in 60 — 65 cm Female: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Weight: Male: 79 — 88 lbs 36 — 40 kg Female: 66 — 70 lbs 28 — 32 kg Milestones: They are done growing. They have matured physically and sexually. Food: Full grown adult should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: Rabies is recommended and can be required by law depending on your state. A full grown adult German Shepherd will stand approximately 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 88 pounds on average. However, some German Shepherds will get bigger even getting over a pounds. Hopefully your GSD is in the correct range. Keep an eye out for any deficiencies during their growth. These German Shepherd growth stages should help you determine all of the proper measurements to make sure they are right on track in their development. Each stage in their maturation is important. Remember to give them a high-quality healthy diet, plenty of exercise and sufficient training and socialization. These will all help lead to a stable and well-adjusted German Shepherd. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any experience with a growing German Shepherd? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Tulsa Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Tulsa? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Tulsa? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. I used to have a loving home. My owner and I were the best of friends. We lived a more simple life and that was just fine with me. .I was perfectly content with my life. I had a home, a person, and a routine that I was familiar with.I never imagined that I would one day end up in need of a new family. I thought I had found the family that I would spend the rest of my life with. Life has a funny way of throwing curve balls your way though. My owner ended up having to move, and sadly I wasn't allowed to go with them. My owner ended up leaving me with family, but they were not able to keep me either as they had their own animals. They reached out to PPFT for help in placing me, and thankfully I ended up having a foster family step up for me! This was my 3rd time switching homes in a short time period and I was quite nervous when I first entered my foster home. I felt so defeated. I had lost everything I had ever known twice now and had no idea what was going to happen to me. My foster family and the pets in the home have done a wonderful job at welcoming me home though, and I have really started to open up. I am a big boy and weigh around 94lbs. Apparently, I stand to lose a few pounds but given how much I love food.I don't know how likely that is to happen! If I see an opportunity to snatch some food off the table or out of the trash.I will do so before you even realize what happened! For some reason, this is frowned upon so my new family should make sure the trash can has a lock on it or is put up and that there is no food left on the counter. I am not really into exercise. That is probably another reason I am a bit on the "fluffy" side. I really enjoy naps and lounging around the house. I am not someone who is into always going places and getting their sweat on.Walks would be okay as long as they aren't too long and the weather is nice out. I am not a fan of this heat and have no desire to stay outside longer than I have to. The good news is that I have impeccable house manners.But let's not focus on that part. Let's focus on the part where I am potty trained, haven't been a chewer, and can be trusted to free-roam the house! I have no experience being kenneled and would prefer a family that won't kennel me either since it simply isn't necessary for me. I have canine companions in my foster home and do well with them. Now, I am not a player so don't get in hopes of becoming besties with your very energetic pup. I prefer to keep to myself when it comes to the other dogs and seem indifferent to them. If my family was home a lot, I believe I would love getting to be the only dog. However, I would also be just as happy having doggie companions as long as they were cool, calm, and collected like myself! I am also being fostered around cats and do well with them. I don't think I would be a match for a family that has younger kids as I do startle easily. Fast movements do startle me, and I do get nervous when I don't understand what you want me to do. Given that I am a large and independent male, I don't like being led by my collar either. Using a leash or treats are much more appealing to me if you want me to go somewhere with you. I will need a calm and gentle family that understands that I am an independent boy and don't want to be "coddled". Now with that said, I LOVE attention and being with my people but I am not a dog you can just run up to and smother in kisses and hugs as quick movements spook me. I like gentle pets and loving. This is to help ensure that it is not only a good fit for you, but for me as well. I am being fostered in Kiowa, OK. If you have fallen in love with me and are out of state, how about a road trip? PPFT doesn't send us on commercial transports. I bet you thought that was the end of things, huh? Well, it just so happens that I would like to share what my foster mom says about me "Happie is a laid-back and easygoing boy. He does well with other dogs and cats but is indifferent to both. I don't think he cares if they are there or not. He has excellent house manners, has not been destructive, and is potty trained. He likes to come up on the couch and cuddle sometimes, but he is not a super affectionate dog. He respects your space and isn't pushy about attention but melts into you when you do pet him. Happie flinches at fast movements and sometimes becomes easily nervous so he will need a calm and patient family. A home that has a lot of activity going on or is really noisy wouldn't be a good fit for him. He would do best with a more laid-back family with older kids that know to go slow and be gentle with him. He doesn't like being grabbed and led by the collar either, so his new family should use a leash if they want him to go somewhere with them. As mentioned above he does become nervous and unsure what to do when he doesn't know what you are asking of him. Happie is the one for you! Happie would do best in a quieter more laid-back home. He would love being an only dog, but would also do just fine if his new home had calmer dogs. Hope to see you apply for me!

View our accreditations descriptions Good morning Bryce and Gina, I want to let you know how the chocolate chunk has been doing and send an updated picture! Moose is also excellent at sitting on command. Hope all is well with you and your family! Emily T. From the start you all were very caring and informative. You have prepared us well for our long journey ahead with our baby boy Oakley A. A Tucker. I want to thank you for always being there to answer all my questions and the pictures you would send our way, it always brought a smile to my face. It has been 3 days since my children A. It was worth a million to see there reactions and smiles, Oakley greeted them all happy and with so much love. On our drive back we actually were afraid we left him in San Antonio lol not once did he make a sound. He gives us so much love that its so easy to give it back. He only has had 2 accidents since arriving both our faults, and he has slept through out the whole night after the first day. The first day he just woke us up twice to go potty but went back to sleep. At the vet he got checked and they said he was perfect and amazing. They were so in love with him. The vet said he was so well taken care of and it showed, we did credit it all to welcome home labs. Today he started his obedience training lessons at home and the trainer was amazed to see such a well tempered labrador. She was actually speechless as she saw how well he obeyed commands already. So thank you again for giving us our newest family addition and we only hope we can give him as much love as you have given him and that he deserves. We will keep in touch. Thank you, Angel, Jolyn, A. This is a dream come true. I have always loved labs. I have done my research on the breed and I knew what I wanted. Welcome Home Labs has fulfilled that and then some. From the first day, it has been a pleasure getting to know you. You took the time to match me with a puppy that would fit with what I was looking for. You gave me an option. I promise to take good care of Monroe. She is already loved. I know she will be an awesome addition to my family. She will have a big fall with a few planned hunting trips for grouse at the shack, then Iowa for a pheasant hunt, and ending the fall with a duck hunt. These will be short trips, just to get her started. Aside from hunting, she is going to join Karney in being a family pet. I have a feeling my bed is going to get very crowded this year. I will send pictures to update you on her progress. I would recommend your kennel to anyone looking for a good experience and a beautiful Lab. Please, enjoy these cookies. A big thank you to your kids for loving on my little girl. I will let you know when we get back to International Falls. Learn More! We are a British Labrador breeder that proudly serves residents throughout Minnesota and beyond. Whether you are looking for an amazing pet for your family, a skilled hunting partner, or both, we know you will be nothing but impressed by our puppies. When you purchase one of our puppies for sale in Minnesota, you can expect the best of the best. We are breeding Premium British lines of Labrador Retrievers, and we have been doing so for two decades. In addition, we have more than 30 years of experience training dogs. At KT British Labs, we firmly believe that there are three things that make a dog: genetics, genetics, and genetics. Through our training, we teach our dogs to be both perfect companions and hunting partners. They can go from hunting waterfowl to playing with your children in no time at all, making them ideal for hunters who are also looking for a new family pet. We invite you to browse our website to learn more about our available dogs, if you have any questions, and thank you for choosing KT British Labs! Carolyn Hall. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Of course, the price will vary with these options. The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Minnesota 1. Smith has over 30 years of experience as a breeder and seller. The facility has pups in all three of the popular lab colors. If you want a hunting dog , you can even enroll your pup in training to learn the ropes. She also includes a month hip guarantee. The puppies get a lot of attention to give them the best start in life. He is an avid hunter and trainer. The facility raises pups of all three lab colors. Many of their past dogs have competed successfully. The Ballys also offer puppy and hunting training. The facility offers puppies for sale for conformation and field trials. They are born and raised in Tennessee before coming to the state. Their dogs come from championship bloodlines. Charpentier only sells a few litters a year. However, the puppies receive the best care with an introduction to the sounds of hunting to get them used to being in the field. All pups come with a written health guarantee. The facility also offers puppy training packages. Glidden does the full slate of recommended health screenings. Many of her dogs have received several hunt test titles. All are special members of the family for social bonding at an early age. All puppies undergo the recommended health screenings with a month guarantee. The pups receive plenty of daily attention, including litter training. She is no stranger to the show ring, with several championship dogs. She specializes in both black and chocolate labs. The kennel also offers custom embroidery with personalized collars and towels available for your new pet. Geurts is active in the show ring with her championship dogs. The puppies start early with housebreaking and socialization. Ollie, originally from the USA, holds his master's degree in wildlife biology and moved to Australia to pursue his career and passion but has found a new love for working online and writing about animals of all types. Both my husband and I grew up with dogs and our families are all dog lovers. Our favorite has always been the Labrador Retriever. When we moved to the country in , we had 2 black Labradors. One was a stray and the other my husband found while hunting in the woods, cold and alone. They lived to be 13 and 15 years old but sadly died only 6 months apart. We were heartbroken but knew we had to fill our lives again with another Labrador. This time we decided, since we had a choice, to bring home a Yellow Labrador. We wanted to keep the memories of our black Labs, and start with a new, different color. After doing much research, we found the perfect dog. We were fortunate to meet Charlie Tolkien from Goldberry Labradors. His knowledge and mentorship has been invaluable over the years. He is retired now but our Goldberry lines will go on for many years to come! The blocky head and muscular build of the English style Labrador is a very desirable look. Our clients always tell us, they get compliments everywhere they go. This combination made for an amazingly calm and mellow pet. We breed for health, temperament, and looks. Carefully choosing our pairings to ensure all 3 qualities. Also, specializing in the lightest color of English, Yellow Labrador. We are a very small hobby breeder, only 1 or 2 litters per year. We have no outside or inside kennels for our Labradors. Our Labs have a very large corral when they want to go outside to run and play safely, and a lake for additional exercise and fun. Though they spend most of their time on the furniture, lounging! The whelping box is literally in the middle of our living room, and someone is there to watch them every minute. From the whelping box, they move to a large playpen after a couple of weeks to give mom and pups more room until they are old enough to ween, walk, and play. They are weighed daily and closely watched to be sure every little one is eating well and growing every day. Their temperature is taken daily and monitored to be sure they are properly digesting their milk. When the puppies are 3 to 4 weeks old, they are moved to the kitchen where they get full exposure to the sounds and smells of family life and have room to play. During this time, we teach them to go outside after meals and when they wake from slumber. Our Labrador puppies are almost fully potty trained when they are 8 weeks old and ready to go to their forever homes. Our Labradors, every single one of them, are members of our family. They are loved and spoiled until the day they go to Heaven. We do not breed before doing OFA health testing after 2 years of age and stop when our reproductive Vet recommends that we do so. Remember, we are a very small hobby breeder, so you may have to wait up to a year for your Labrador puppy. You MUST look at our gallery page, puppy videos, and information on our site. You too will fall in love with our Yellow Labrador Retrievers! You may learn why so many of our clients have 2 of our dogs in their family and will always come back to us for their next family member. All Rights Reserved.

They are also popular choices for families with allergies, as they do not shed as much as other breeds. Poodle Mixes come in a wide variety of sizes, shapes, and colors, making them one of the most popular hybrid dog breeds. While all Poodle Mixes share some common features, their individual personalities can vary widely. Some Poodle Mixes are confident and outgoing, while others are more reserved and shy. Some breeds tend to be independent thinkers, while others are more eager to please. The best way to determine what personality type is right for you is to meet with a local breeder or rescue organization that specializes in Poodle Mixes. Poodle Mix Puppy Health Considerations Though generally very happy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around years — our Poodle Mixes for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Poodle Mix puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Of course, not all Poodle Mixes will develop these conditions, but it is important to be aware of them. Finding a Poodle Mix puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can also dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. Regardless of the type of Poodle Mix you have, there are a few things you need to know about coat care. First, regular brushing is essential to prevent mats and tangles. Finally, Poodle Mixes need to be groomed every weeks by a professional groomer. This includes a bath, brush out, trimming of the coat, and nail clipping. By following these simple coat care tips, you can help your Poodle Mix look and feel his best. Meet Poodle Mix Puppies for Sale. Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Cheyenne, WY? We have answers. What's the most interesting thing about Poodle puppies for sale near Cheyenne? Poodles are renowned for their intelligence, adaptability, and loyalty, making them a great choice for a canine companion. Interestingly, they come in a variety of sizes too! Standard Poodles weigh a hefty pounds, while Miniature and Toy Poodles typically max out at 18 and 10 pounds, respectively. This makes them great companions for people who may not have a lot of space in their living situation. Moreover, Poodles boast a wide range of coats, from wiry to curly to a combination of both style. Are Poodle puppies for sale in Cheyenne non-shedding? Poodles are considered a hypoallergenic breed and generally have low-shedding coats. While they are not completely non-shedding, they do have much less shedding than other breeds. Poodles do require regular grooming to help keep their coats healthy, and while this entails some light to moderate shedding, it is much less than other breeds. In comparison to other breeds, poodles are considered a low-shedding breed, making them a great choice for households with allergies or those seeking a low-shedding dog. What should I not feed Cheyenne Poodle puppies for sale? Poodles are intelligent, active dogs that require regular nutritious meals to maintain their health and energy. Unfortunately, there's a long list of foods and snacks that are potentially dangerous for Poodles to eat. Common human food items such as grapes, avocado, macadamia nuts, and onions can be poisonous for dogs. Some other foods to avoid are chocolate, candy, and anything with caffeine. Raw dough, strong cheeses, and fatty meats can cause health issues such as pancreatitis. Am I ready to adopt Poodle puppies in Cheyenne? Preparing your home for a new Poodle will involve both changes to the environment and the development of proper behaviors in both you and your pup. To help your pup feel comfortable in their new home, make sure to provide it with plenty of toys, a safe and secure area, and establish routines for sleeping, meal times, and potty breaks. Additionally, it's important to socialize your pup by introducing it to different people and other animals in a positive way. Lastly, ensure that all household members practice patience and reward good behavior during the training process. Are Poodles for sale in Cheyenne considered small dogs? Poodles are indeed considered to be small dogs. Generally, they weigh anywhere from 6 to 9 pounds and stand between 10 and 15 inches tall. Poodles come in three standard sizes: the Toy Poodle stands under 10 inches in height, the Miniature Poodle stands between 10 and 15 inches high, and the Standard Poodle typically stands more than 15 inches tall. They may appear to be larger due to their distinctive coat and haircut, however, that does not outweigh the reality that they are small. Poodles are known for being intelligent, loyal, and active. Do Poodle puppies near Cheyenne like to swim? Poodles, especially Standard Poodles, often enjoy swimming in pools or lakes! Poodles are a highly active breed, making them ideal companions for outdoor activities. Water-based activities are a fun way to release energy and stimulate the mind. They are known for being brave swimmers, and enjoy playing fetch in the water, as well as swimming laps. Also, because of their unique fur texture, they have natural buoyancy, making them natural-born swimmers who can keep up with the best of them. Are Poodles in Cheyenne good family dogs? Poodles can certainly be great family dogs, as they possess the intelligence, adaptability, loyalty, and patience that can make them an ideal companion. They are generally non-aggressive, and thrive when given plenty of love and attention. They also have a hypoallergenic coat that won't exacerbate allergies, making them a good option for families with members who suffer from sensitivities. As a highly trainable breed, they are eager to please and respond well to positive reinforcement. Are Cheyenne Poodles for sale considered smart dogs? Poodles are known for their intelligence, so it makes sense that people often ask if they are smart dogs. Studies have proven that poodles have a superior capacity for understanding and problem solving and take into account their owner's wishes and instruction better than that of other breeds. On average, poodles are able to learn commands at a rate that is twice as fast as that of other breeds. Furthermore, poodles have been known to excel in performing certain activities such as agility exams and obedience competitions. Therefore, it is fair to say that poodles are smart dogs.

Without training to curb your pup's aggressive tendencies, a relatively harmless little Lab can quickly grow into a large and potentially dangerous adult. Step 1 Take your Lab pup out for a brisk walk or jog on a leash and play engaging games like fetch and hide-the-toy with your little furball. Tug-of-war games are discouraged for any dog with any hint of aggressive tendencies. Labradors are a high-energy breed that needs lots of exercise to burn off their extra energy. They love to swim, which may work well if you have a pool -- but don't forget a doggie life jacket for safety. A bored puppy who isn't properly exercised burns off this energy through destructive means, such as chewing on furniture -- or your limbs -- as part of his "play" behaviors. Labs are notorious for chewing on anything and everything around them. While this behavior is not necessarily aggressive to start with, it can lead to aggression when your dog reaches adulthood. If your Lab thinks that biting people or animals during play is okay as a pup, he'll continue to bite people as his jaws get stronger, a situation that can have serious consequences. Step 2 Play with your Lab puppy using chew toys, not your fingers or hands. If your Lab nips your hand during play, loudly say "Ouch! Do this each time your dog nips or bites you until your dog learns that nipping leads to something unpleasant: an abrupt end to the fun and attention. Reward proper behavior that doesn't involve biting with a tasty treat and praise. Step 3 Spray a taste deterrent on your hands or ankles, depending on which body parts are the target of your Labrador pup. These sprays taste bitter and unpleasant to your dog, and when biting or nipping at you results in this yucky taste, it will deter him from nipping at you in the future. Continue to spray your limbs and clothing for two weeks until your pup ceases his attempts to nip or bite you. Step 4 Enroll your Lab pup in a puppy obedience class to teach him basic good manners and to socialize him around strangers and other dogs. Your Lab may not be aggressive around you or your family, but may show aggression toward other animals and people. Labs tend to be protective dogs, wary of strangers, especially as they get older if they are not properly socialized as puppies. Puppy obedience classes expose your dog to strange people and dogs in a positive manner, so he views them as something good. Your dog will also learn basic commands that make it easier for you to control him, decreasing the chances of aggressive behavior. The American Kennel Club offers special classes for puppies called the S. Puppy Program, which stands for puppy socialization, training, activity and responsible owner. Classes are offered around the country and last at least six weeks, depending on how quickly your dog responds to the training. Step 5 Spay or neuter your Lab prior to six months of age, the age at which most pups reach sexual maturity. Labs grow very quickly, and become large dogs by four months of age, according to Veterinary Partner. These pups grow into a to pound adult within the first year, an imposing and potentially dangerous size if your dog is aggressive. The sex hormones present in an intact male dog -- a dog who hasn't been fixed -- increase his aggressive tendencies and dominant behaviors. Step 6 Take your Lab pup to the vet for a checkup if he begins showing signs of aggression, including nipping, growling or snarling. Sometimes a medical condition such as hypothyroidism, an infection, a seizure disorder or an injury can make your dog irritable and more likely to become aggressive, according to the Labrador Retriever Rescue. Step 7 Feed your Lab puppy with his food dish in your lap or you can hand-feed him bits of dry kibble. Not only will your dog bond with you during this experience, but it prevents food and possessive aggression from developing or worsening. Dogs who guard their food dish can snap at you or family members unexpectedly during feeding. Have other family members feed the puppy as well to get your dog used to being submissive to everyone in the home. Slip a treat into your pup's bowl while he eats to also help discourage food aggression from developing. More Articles. Aggression in Labradors Dealing with Aggression Labradors are not usually an aggressive variety. However, there are several factors which may contribute to aggression in labradors. Personality and genetic disposition are not usually the main influences. The early life experience of pups in the 'first fear imprint period, Aggression against the pup by family members or other household pets is highly influential to the way that a dog will respond throughout its life. The secondary influences include sex, age, size, hormonal variation during pregnancy and anxiety. Anxiety in pups must be placated with secure affection and positive discipline. Socialisation from 8 weeks of age is also critical for the healthy development. Do not use physical punishment. This can increase the intensity of your dog's aggression. For general health reason, particularly in later life, we do not recommend this prior to 8 months of age. Types of Aggression Animal behaviouralists classify patterns of behavior and the circumstances in which they occur. This is done to determine the dog's motivation and the cause of the behaviour: Dog to dog - Pack order aggression is one of the most common forms of aggression in dogs. They are pack animals, and they relate to humans as members of their own pack. If your dogs are fighting, do not get in the middle. Interrupt the aggression using water in a spray bottle. Dog to human aggression occurs as the result of intimidation or physical intervention by people, your and old, adult and child. Redirected aggression can occur when an aggressive dog, particularly a male that redirects its aggression from the source to another. When an owner is restraining a dog by pulling him back the dog may retaliate. Dominant dogs often redirect their aggression towards pack subordinates or children of equal size or smaller. Dominant dogs will defend their pack area including a home, room or yard. House and feed your dogs separately if they are fighting with each other. Remove contentious objects like bones and toys. Gender aggression particularly between adult males involves territorial and dominance disputes. Inter-female aggression occurs most frequently between adult females living in the same household. This will be apparent if one female is pregnant. Predatorial aggression is directed towards quick-moving stimulus, like a car or bike. Anything considers as prey, usually other weaker species can be the object of this aggression. Pain induced aggression occurs when a person attempts to touch a painful area or when injections are given. Fear induced aggression occurs when when the dog senses that it is cornered or trapped and cannot escape. A fearful dog is often the victim of an owner uses severe punishment common. Active and unpredictable children may induce this type of aggression. Never allow small children to have unsupervised access to any dog no matter how passive the dog may appear. Children and adults should avoid interacting with dogs that are eating. They should never tease or hurt dogs. Keep your dog confined when unfamiliar children are present Maternal aggression may be directed toward anyone that approaches a bitch with puppies or in false pregnancy. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. Structural issue Frustration-Inspired Aggression Frustration in your Labrador is normally inspired by its environment and acts as a response to a situation that it is being forced into against its will. Unlike fear-inspired aggression, Labradors may become aggressive in response to a trigger they learned while they were being raised, not a trauma-induced trigger. Ask yourself: How was my Labrador raised? Were they in a position that brewed aggression police dog, dog fighting, stray? In some cases, your Labrador may be aggressive based off where their parents came from. If you adopted your Lab from a place where the parents were not in the best conditions or were rescued, as well, your lab may be suffering from an outburst of natural genes. From there, you will likely be given a number of tips and possibly medicine to calm your Labrador down and work on controlling their aggression issues. If this is not possible, the internet will give you sufficient resources for identifying what is introducing the aggression and how to deal with it use the types of aggression listed in this article as a starting point. Treating sudden aggression in Labrador Retrievers can be a lengthy process and may require a lot of time to come to a solution and remediate the issue… so stay optimistic and be patient. In some cases, it is a mental health issue or literal issue with your home environment and your Lab may require relocation or other medications. Will I need to put down my Labrador? The vet may recommend that you euthanize your Labrador if the aggression becomes dangerous to humans or other animals, or if the aggression is being caused by an irreversible underlying issue sickness like cancer or arthritis. In drastic cases of aggression, courts may order that your Labrador be put down out of fear of a lack of public safety. Can I have an aggressive Labrador in a house with family? However, if there are any signs of aggression towards humans that may put your family at risk, consult a veterinarian and closely monitor your lab. Trusted by millions of dog lovers worldwide. Older puppy aggression Most puppies are through the worst of the biting phase by about four months old. After about six months of age, some puppies begin to show signs of fear aggression. This means that they may growl or snap at strangers who approach or try to touch them. The way to avoid this behavior and raise a friendly puppy is to thoroughly socialize your pup. You should follow our socialization steps as soon as your puppy arrives in your home Nipping and rough behavior in bigger puppies Some aggressive puppies at around six to nine months old have a resurgence of nipping and rough behavior. Often ending in tears when children are involved. This kind of biting is almost always linked to inappropriate play. Often involving children. Dogs, especially young dogs, are not great at reading behavioral signals from small children and vice versa. There is a bit of a language barrier here, and children can get hurt. The article on playing safely with your Labrador will help you with this. True Aggression in Puppies It is important that you also know how to recognize and deal with true aggression. Genuine aggression is very rare in small puppies and is almost always linked to extreme fear. A puppy that bites from fear will normally attempt to hide and withdraw first. The frightened puppy will normally growl fairly quietly and try to avoid contact before he bites, whereas the playing puppy will initiate contact and growl more and more fiercely once the biting game is underway. A frightened puppy will also often give off a distinctive musky smell. Helping a frightened puppy If you find your puppy cowering under a chair and not wanting to be touched, you can be sure that someone or something has really frightened him. Remove the source of fear toddlers, and other dogs are common culprits and take your time over reassuring him. Fetch some nice food, and tempt him out. He may need plenty of cuddles for a while, but try not to worry. Most puppies are very resilient and soon bounce back from an unpleasant experience. Aggression in older puppies It can be hard to know when an older puppy is truly being an aggressive puppy. Most commonly, biting and rough behavior in older puppies is due to the causes discussed above. True aggression in older puppies is normally caused by fear and anxiety due to insufficient socialization. Socialization To avoid this kind of aggression it is vital to socialize puppies carefully, so that they are not afraid of anything. Although there may be a genetic element to some dog aggression, socialization is your biggest tool in raising a happy calm friendly puppy. Some dogs will guard beds, chairs and benches. Resource guarding should be treated using positive reinforcement Resource Guarding Sometimes, aggression in older puppies is due to resource guarding. This is clearly not to do with play. An aggressive puppy may growl when people approach his food bowl, or his bed for example. Some aggressive puppies also guard stolen socks, or trash picked up on their walk. This is all classed as resource guarding. How to train an aggressive puppy Some years ago, people believed that resource guarding could be trained out of puppies with dominance and pack leadership strategies. We now know that these techniques only suppress the problem and make the dog feel more threatened. They can be extremely dangerous and lead to bites and ultimately the destruction of the dog. Positive Reinforcement Modern training techniques use positive reinforcement and counter conditioning to change the way that dogs feel about having people near their food and other resources. With most resource guarding problems, especially in older puppies and adult dogs, it is best to get professional help from a behaviorist. Your vet should be able to recommend one. Aggression towards other dogs As with dog-human interactions, it is important to be aware that puppy growling and gentle biting at the other dogs in your house is normal puppy play. Keep an eye that the older dog is not getting frustrated, and separate them if needed — but try not to worry about the puppy noise! You may find our guide to introducing a puppy to an older dog helpful. If, however, your older puppy or dog is being aggressive to other dogs it meets, you may want to consider help from a behaviorist. Puppy Aggression Causes Dog to dog aggression occurs for a variety of reasons. You may need help unpicking the cause, before trying to fix this problem. In the meantime consider keeping your dog on a leash when other dogs are around. And remember — punishing your dog is known to make this problem worse. Life with an Aggressive Puppy Growling and biting are not usually signs of aggression in puppies. Noisy, aggressive-looking, play is a developmental phase that all puppies go through. With your help, it will soon be over. Serious aggression in small puppies is rare and usually only occurs in puppies that are terrified, and that have been prevented from hiding. So rest assured, no matter how fierce your little puppy sounds when he hangs on to your shoes or attacks your fingers, it is not a sign of true aggression. It is normal puppy play. More serious problems Most puppy owners will be reassured by this article, that their puppies growling and nipping is not a sign a an aggressive puppy, but is a normal phase of puppy development. However, if you are concerned that your older puppy or adult dog is showing true aggression, or that they may bite you in a way that causes genuine harm, seek help. A canine behaviorist can assess your dog and advise you on how best to retrain them. Your vet will be able to put you in touch with a behaviorist. Aggressive Puppy and Children Remember, children are particularly at risk from dog bites. If you are concerned, minimize interactions between your dog and children. And always supervise their time together. Research shows that most people find it hard to predict when their children are safe around a dog, and when to worry. Your vet is an important point of call for an aggressive puppy or dog. They love everyone. Sound familiar? The Reactive Labrador The reality is that there are individual Labradors who are reactive and use aggressive behavior at times. The reasons or motivations for their behavior will vary. But one thing is true of all of them: aggressive behavior is totally normal. All dogs can use aggression to a greater or lesser extent depending on their individual temperament and experiences. Just like every person can lose their temper or slam the occasional door in frustration. When working with a reactive and aggressive Labrador the aim is not to suppress the behavior. How we do that varies depending on the likely emotion underlying the reactive behavior. Warning Signs of Reactivity in Labradors Generally canine social etiquette is ritualised and aimed at diffusing tension and avoiding conflict; aggressive behavior carries a risk of injury and is therefore a last resort. Dogs will show early warning signs that they are feeling uncomfortable in a situation. These include turning or moving away, yawning, nose licking, and their pupils will dilate. If they are prevented from moving away, then they are likely to increase the intensity of their signals. Moving on to snapping and biting to get their point across. If the dog learns that the smaller signals are ignored, or if the intensity of the trigger is too high, then they will respond with the more overt behavior. They will start barking, rushing towards in an attempt to drive the trigger away, snapping and biting. The aggressive behavior in the image below is cued by the handler. These are a couple of the indications that this is a learned response. If the dog may be in pain then providing suitable pain relief is essential. Reactivity From Frustration Another common motivation for aggression, but one that is often mistaken or forgotten, is frustration. A frustrated dog is likely to show fewer of the lower level signals of discomfort. Although lip or nose licks are common in times of conflicted emotions such as wanting to greet but not being able do because of the lead, or a fence. If your Labrador is bouncing on the end of the lead, weight forward, ears pricked, tail up, and barking with a high pitch then they are likely to be a frustrated greeter. One who may behave more appropriately off lead when they can greet as they like. Many frustrated greeters, however, are socially inappropriate. Rushing at other dogs and ignoring any signs from them that they are less than enthusiastic about the approach of 30kg of happy Labrador. They may well end up being snapped at, or worse, by the dogs they bounce on. It is not uncommon for dogs whose reactivity manifests first as frustration to develop elements of fear-based aggression after being told off by other dogs for their social ineptitude, leading to considerable conflict of emotions around other dogs. Dogs who become extremely frustrated around other dogs, or when denied things that they want, may well redirect their frustration on to the nearest object they can find. The lead, the person or dog standing next to them, or a toy if one is available. Providing a suitable outlet such as a tug toy is one way to manage the situation in an emergency. Does Predation Create an Aggressive Labrador? It is worth mentioning that predation is also a common motivation for aggressive behavior. Labradors are not traditionally associated with catching and killing prey. But actually it is not unusual to meet dogs who are aroused by fast moving objects. Such as bicycles, running people and the more obvious small furry animals and birds in our fields and hedgerows. Again, if the desire to chase is thwarted then any resulting aggressive behavior may well be frustration-related. This is despite predation being the initial motivation for the behavior. Is Reactivity in Dogs Medical? There are several techniques that can be used to modify aggressive Labrador responses. Before considering any of them it is essential to rule out any underlying medical issue. Pain or illness which may be contributing to the aggressive behavior. Pain is the most obvious cause. So if your dog appears stiff, reluctant to move or uncomfortable at times then discuss this with your vet. It can help to take video of the movement, gait, or situations that concern you. This will mean that your vet can see exactly what is happening, in a way they cannot recreate in clinic. Even if a clinical exam does not identify a source of potential pain it can be beneficial to trial a short course of pain relief. Make sure you note any changes in behavior or movement. Pain which occurs when playing with other dogs can often be at the root of the onset of dog:dog aggression; equally aggression towards people can be triggered by pain or the fear of pain on being stroked, or moved from a resting spot. As well as pain there are medical issues which in themselves increase the likelihood of aggressive behavior so a thorough vet check is essential. Especially in cases where you seem to have an aggressive Labrador without warning. The behavior has developed suddenly. This helps them relax and improves their general welfare. They are no longer on edge anticipating something which scares or arouses them. And also stops them practising the behavior that we want to change. Every time your Labrador reacts aggressively they are strengthening the neural pathway. This makes that behavior more likely and harder to change; it becomes their default and may well be used in situations away from the initial trigger in the future. Aggressive behavior which has generalised in this way is much harder to change. If your Labrador is reactive towards other dogs on walks, whatever the underlying emotion behind the reaction, then try to find alternative places with fewer dogs and keep your distance by turning around calmly before your dog can react. Or look for a local space such as a riding school or dog training centre you may be able to hire for safe and secure walks. Reacting To Reactivity It is important to note that if your dog does react aggressively, whatever the situation, scolding them or correcting them will not help them learn what you do want them to do instead. In fact it may well make things worse, as they then become concerned about your reaction as well as the thing that triggered their behavior in the first place. Instead, calmly move them further away from the situation until they are at a distance where they can be calm themselves. If possible let the dog look at the scary, or frustrating, thing and reward them with tasty treats for being calm. This also helps them start to change their emotional response; so that the dog that scared them is now associated with tasty treats instead. We will next take a look at ways of changing emotions and behavior in the medium to longer term. Aggressive behavior is a normal part of social interaction. In some cases the genetic tendency of a dog to be fearful, anxious or easily frustrated, or the length of time they have been practising their aggressive behavior, will limit the progress you can make with them. You will need patience, and a willingness to accept that their needs are different from those you might have expected when you brought them home. Your Aggressive Labrador There is an increasing understanding of the needs of sensitive dogs, and many more trainers and dog places offer activities that are perfectly suited to dogs who do not wish to run and play with other dogs, or who would rather have a bit more space around people. Scentwork and tracking are ideal, as are activity classes which offer lots of different options, from trick training to fun rally. This should involve acknowledging and working to change their underlying emotional response, not simply suppressing the aggression using punishment. There should also be a focus on enabling them to manage themselves in arousing situations, so that, in time, they can make the right choice without needing direction for you. Many dogs will also need help to learn the correct social skills around other dogs. Your Labrador is an individual, with individual experiences and genetics that make them unique; their behavior modification plan should be as individual as they are. Even if you are able to manage the day to day behavior modification training alone, the benefits of working alongside someone who can provide objective feedback, advice on the next steps and support are invaluable. High value food is usually the obvious choice. This can quickly change his emotions from wanting the other dog to go away to wanting them to be around so that he gets the really yummy treat. This is usually done in conjunction with DRI so that he can start to learn how to behave appropriately and be reinforced for polite behavior around other dogs. At all times your Labrador should be working at a distance where they are not reactive, and gradually moving closer to their trigger when they are ready to do so. Any signs of low-level fear or anxiety should be respected and the distance between the dogs increased until the fearful dog is comfortable. To continue working with a dog above threshold is stressful for your dog, counter-productive and risks an aggressive response. Options for Helping your Reactive Dog One of the main criticisms of BAT is that it relies on your Labrador feeling empowered, or relieved, by the other dog moving away in response to calm behavior from your dog. In learning theory terms this is negative reinforcement i. This suggests that he was uncomfortable beforehand, even if only marginally. CAT and flooding are far more extreme in their use of relief as a reinforcer and should be avoided. Examples of this include sitting automatically before their lead goes on, or waiting calmly without being told when you open the boot of the car. This is particularly useful with frustration-related aggression where learning to stay calm when denied access to things he wants is the key skill your Labrador will need to learn before you can work on his manners around other dogs. As with any kind of training or behavior modification, finding a trainer whose skills and knowledge are suitable for your reactive Labrador is key. You must have confidence that they have a range of appropriate tools available to them, that they are able to accurately assess and respond to your dog and that you would like to work with them. This article has only scratched the surface of the options and techniques that are available to help you and your reactive Labrador, but good help is out there. Sian Ryan is an expert Animal Behaviorist based in Cambridgeshire. With several years of training experience and after completing her MSc, Sian worked as a behavior counsellor and trainer in the University of Lincoln Animal Behavior Clinic, where she was able to apply her MSc research in to Self Control in Pet Dogs to her behavior and training work. Sian owns and runs the Developing Dogs Training and Behavior Centre in Cambridgeshire, as well as giving seminars and workshops nationally and internationally. Her first book, No Walks? No Worries! But as your kids approach the puppy, he starts biting and nipping them, causing a few surprised cries. The AKC says Labradors are an affectionate breed, treating adults, children, and other animals like family without causing any trouble. Labradors are easy to train and receptive to learning new commands since their main goal is to please their families. Do All Labrador Puppies Bite? As your new puppy settles into their new home, they are many stimulants, and he needs time to get to know your family, its new surroundings, and that not all slippers are a toy. Just as when people move to a new house, city, or country, your new Labrador puppy is exploring the world. This process will take a few weeks, so be patient. But what happens when he suddenly starts biting you and your kids? Every family that gets lab puppies faces this challenge. Although your puppy is only a few pounds, Labrador puppy biting is still painful. Many owners worry that the behavior will continue into adulthood, especially when biting becomes an ongoing issue. The good news is that there is usually a short time frame that you have to experience this. So in reality, Labrador puppy biting is primarily instinctual. Reason 1: Teething Puppies Sometimes, a Lab puppy biting is simply due to teething. Teething is uncomfortable, so your pup likely just wants to relieve that discomfort in any way possible. If that means biting a chew toy or your fingers, then so be it. Once your Lab puppy has its teeth, it might stop biting and nipping. You can help ease his comfort by offering him teething toys for puppies, like frozen chew toys. Reason 2: Excitement Biting Behavior Your new Lab puppy could get excited by just about anything: Your kids squealing, shouting, or crying, and adults shouting or being angry can set off your Lab puppy biting with its sharp teeth. The solution: Deter your puppy from biting you by redirecting him to what he can bite, like a toy. Reason 3: Biting for Attention Most Labrador puppies are receptive to conditioning and positive reinforcement. Dog lovers know that dogs crave attention from their families, but Lab puppies are extreme attention seekers. They love any form of contact with their families, whether playing, petting, or even just eye contact. So if your pup gets these responses from you while biting, he will interpret them as attention. The solution: Stop giving your puppy the attention he wants when he bites so he learns not to associate the two. When puppies are with their mom and siblings, the mom teaches them how hard they can bite each other without it being too painful through play fighting. Your Lab puppy learns how to calibrate strength based on his own family experience. Do Labrador Puppies Bite Children? One major adjustment is the play-biting: A small Lab puppy has a powerful bite and can cause pain, especially to such sensitive skin. The downside is that Lab puppies are more likely to bite children and teenagers than adults. It all comes down to learning how to interact with the puppy. Children and teenagers are inherently more confusing for a Lab puppy. The great news is that you can stop your Lab puppy from biting your kids through consistent training, but the training should be on both sides. Your kids also need to learn how to play and interact with the puppy, understanding its boundaries and playing just enough to keep them from overexciting. You plan to throw a chew toy into the yard for him to chase — but before you can throw it, he suddenly starts nipping and tugging at your hands while making odd puppy sounds that sound dangerously close to snarling. You might also be worried that you have a puppy displaying aggressive biting behavior. Most of the time, they mean no harm and just need a little training to control it! Without the proper guidance and education, many of these methods might be wrong: Instead of discouraging your puppy from biting, you could unintentionally reinforce it. Puppy Biting Tip 1: Discourage Play Biting Whatever stage of puppy development your adorable pup is in, he will always crave attention. If you encourage and reward play biting, he will associate it with attention, praise, and treats, causing him to do it more. So if your puppy has entered its biting phase and is displaying rough or aggressive behavior, stop yourself from giving any reaction. Simply follow rigid training steps, and it will eventually stop. Although that might be very hard to do because a Lab puppy is so adorable, you will thank yourself in the future for doing this. In fact, it might even make things worse. When you punish your Labrador, he might learn to fear you. This can worsen the biting and lead to your puppy developing more aggressive behavior as an adult. Some people also do a light swat on their puppies when they misbehave. When your pup starts biting, remain calm and follow positive training methods rather than negative ones. This is especially true when it comes to a nipping Labrador puppy. While a biting puppy is normal puppy behavior, without proper training and techniques, your Labrador might bite well into adulthood. Step 1: Teach Small Children Boundaries The first step in your training routine should be teaching your kids how to interact with the puppy. But if they start barking and biting out of excitement, you must stop playing with them immediately. Instead, pick up the toy and step away. Bite inhibition is when you teach your puppy how much is too much. After that time-out, you can return to the room and resume whatever activity you were doing. As your puppy learns to bite with less intensity, you can start training it not to put your hand in its mouth. This training takes time, so be patient, and you will see a positive result. Step 4: Reinforce with Additional Training You can also use other training techniques to reinforce positive behavior. Move your hand closer to the puppy and follow the same technique. If the puppy bites you, walk away from it. As you train the puppy to tolerate your hand getting closer to it without biting, you can finally keep your puppy calm and play safely without causing overstimulated biting. Puppies and dogs might go back to their bad habits if you change how you interact with them, so being consistent is crucial. Remember that children tend to take more time to learn training steps, so always reinforce the boundaries and supervise them during playtime in the early training days. Be patient and give your puppy time to learn. Seek help from professional trainers. Professional dog trainers are experienced in redirection, toy-play, and bite inhibition training to give you helpful tips and tricks. Take your puppy to puppy school. There are hundreds of puppy schools and programs that teach puppies good manners. Remember to never punish your puppy for biting. Invest in some good toys, such as different chew toys or Kong toys, so you always have something to redirect him towards. Conclusion Whether teething, scared or just excited, most Labrador Retriever puppies bite for various reasons. Unfortunately, those sharp little puppy teeth can hurt — so if you notice some unwanted biting from your Lab puppy, you should immediately start training him into different behavior. Learn more about what we do and check out our available Labrador puppies today! Share on.