pug puppies playing

Frequently Asked Questions What is a Bernedoodle? The Bernedoodle comes in three sizes as the Poodle parent can be a tiny version, miniature version or standard version. We specialize in breeding the mini and tiny Bernedoodles. Though the tiny and mini versions of the Bernedoodle can be more energetic for the most part, the temperament of the Bernedoodle is playful and affectionate. They interact well with kids of all ages and generally love spending lots of time with their human families. They make a wonderful pet for families who enjoy taking their dog out on family adventures. They can be wary around strangers so it is important to socialize them as early in life as possible. They can have long wavy coats, curly coats or straight coats. The wavy and curly coats tend to shed only minimally but the long straight coats will tend to shed more than the other coats. What is a St Berdoodle or Saint Berdoodle? The Saint Berdoodle is a designer doodle breed dog — a cross between the lovable St Bernard and intelligent non-shedding Poodle. .Friendly, intelligent, and loyal, Saint Berdoodles are great family dogs. Saint Berdoodles are versatile dogs who just want to love and be part of the family The mini St Berdoodle breed does not drool which is a plus for all Saint Bernard lovers. How big does a mini Bernedoodle get? Approximately Height 16 - 20 inch Do mini Bernedoodles shed? First generation or F1 Bernedoodles are known to shed very little to not at all. F1B Tiny or micro Bernedoodles , on the other hand, are likely to not shed at all due to the higher percentage of Poodle in their genetics. Social Powered by GoDaddy This website uses cookies. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. C Canada. We are in Princeton which is just a three hour drive from the Vancouver coast in the beautiful Southern Okanagan. We specialize in breeding miniature Bernedoodles and tiny Bernedoodle puppies that are perfect for families living in any size home. Everyone loves Bernedoodles however, not everyone has space for a standard size Bernedoodle. We breed Mini Bernedoodles and Tiny Bernedoodles that will fit and cuddle right up on the couch with you!! We are members in good standing with the National Ethical Breeders association. As ethical mini Bernedoodle breeders and tiny Bernedoodlle breeders we strive to produce the best Bernedoodle puppies with all focus on intelligence, temperament, conformation, and most importantly health. We raise our miniature Bernedoodle breed puppies on our 20 acre property inside our home until the puppies are ready to go to their new homes at the age of 8 weeks and beyond. The parents to all of our puppies are genetically health tested and have been chosen for their great temperaments and excellent health. We are very happy to announce we have extended our breeding program to also include mini Saint Berdoodles. If you are interested in viewing our available Bernedoodle puppies please click here. Please visit Designer Doodles Canada if you are interested in other miniature doodle breeds. Check out more information about the mini Bernedoodles breed below. Read more about the Tiny Bernedoodles breed by clicking the link below. They are quickly growing in popularity due to their gentil and loyal qualities making them a fantastic family pet. Mini St Berdoodle puppies ,also known as the nanny doodles are produced by breeding a Saint Bernard and a miniature Poodle. Due to their calm demeanor and love for children they have been nicknamed the nanny doodle. Very similar to Bernedoodles they are a friendly and calmer doodle breed without the drooling and excessive shedding of the lovable Saint Bernard. Mini Bernedoodle puppies grow to be very little to no shedding and are a better choice for people suffer from allergies. Hypoallergenic and very low- no shedding Mini Bernedoodles puppies suit any owner Able to live in any size dwelling Pet-friendly , child friendly A top-notch swimmer and runner Becomes your partner in every activity A great family dog Smart - easily trained The Mini Bernedoodle is a first generation cross with a Bernese Mountain Dog parent and a Miniature Poodle parent. It is believed that these puppies grow up to be much healthier than both of its parent breeds and that they display the most desirable mix of traits. This unique mix is known for being an intelligent, loving and social dog. The Bernese mountain dog and Miniature poodle are both people loving breeds and share a reputation for being placid and patient with children , making the Mini Bernedoodle a perfect family pet. They are perfect size for condo and apartment living and make a great couch pal. They do not require a ton of exercise however they can keep up, making them a great jogging partner. F1 Mini Bernedoodles are considered low to non shedders making them a good candidate for allergy sufferers, however we cannot guarantee that some people will not have a reaction as there are varying sensitivities person to person. Mini Bernedoodles do require periodic grooming with emphasis being in the summer months as to keep them from overheating. If the mini Bernedoodle is the right dog for you please take a look at our available puppies page to find your new family member. Mini Bernedoodles Lifespan Miniature F1 Bernedoodles- first generation crosses are believed that these puppies grow up to be much healthier than both of its parent breeds and that they display the most desirable mix of traits. We also cannot guarantee that some people will not have an allergic reaction as allergies do vary person to person and some may be too sensitive. She is an exceptional dog in every way. She adores and loves everyone she meets and they adore her. From the day we got her in early October, she has been a joy to have. She has the run of three acres on our property and loves to run and swim. The picture I have sent you is Woof with her constant companion Smudge. We got the kitten at the same time we got Woof. They are inseparable. They play and explore together and sleep together. She loves her groomer and is wild about her vet. She sailed through her neutering with flying colors and looks forward to her monthly appointments. The cat is usually the instigator. In another picture she was about 4 months old at the time. She adds so much to our day to day family life. She is so attentive to their needs always. She can play rough with my son when he is wanting to play rough and tumble with her. And Piper can be the best lap dog around as well. She seems to know what the vibe is in the house at all times. It really is amazing. With this being our first dog, we were a little worried about not having a say at what puppy we got. But as everyone told us — Sherry knows best. You truly do, Sherry! Piper has fit into our crazy hectic lifestyle. She loves her car rides around for carpool and her plane rides out to our vacation house with us. She loves to swim, run, jump, and chase just about anything. Piper is a tiny bernedoodle and has definitely showed us the larger side of the tiny breed. She is 26 lbs. She has very long legs, a beautiful coat, and the cutest little underbite. She has been extremely healthy, eats like a champ, never sheds, and is very smart. We love our Piper Sierra! Thanks, Sherry! I had my heart set on a puppy just like the one I saw in the picture. I stalked the SwissRidge website day after day. I will never forget the day Sherry called me out of the blue. We needed this black standard bernedoodle with a white cross on his chest, and a tan swirl over his eyes! From that day on, we knew this pup we named Raglan was going to be a wonderful addition to our growing family. He was an adorable pup, full of energy, dedication, and spunk. We loved him so much that we knew we had room for another. Our youngest daughter wanted a doodle she could bond with, something smaller, so the following Christmas Santa left a dog crate filled with toys with a note saying we were on the list for a mini bernedoodle. Sula was born the next month and our pack was growing! Sula added a new energy to our pack. She was a playful pup who tested any and all limits she was given. With the help of a local trainer, and a quick education in being the leader of my pack, Raglan and Sula were a dream come true. Now that we had a mini and a standard bernedoodle, my love for SwissRidge doodles continued to grow, I hinted around that one more pup would complete our pack. A tiny bernedoodle would make our family complete. I never considered myself to be a small dog person, but there was something about these tiny pups that turned me around. My husband must be as crazy as I am because he contacted Sherry on his own and wanted to surprise me with my third bernedoodle for my birthday! Raglan was from the litter of Chantelle, an Apricot standard poodle, and Dominique, a handsome Bernese mountain dog. Raglan is a wonderful pup but he did take some time and effort to get him that way. Even though I read the books and studied the puppy handbook, I still made some mistakes. Luckily with the support of a great trainer, I realized what I was doing wrong. Raglan is a wonderful companion and family member. He walks down the street like he is a Clydesdale horse and if one of his pack members breaks away from the pack he does not stand down until they return. He is loyal, loving, and with his long legged stature and winning personality, he is the best of all worlds. Raglan will be four in June .Sula is a mini doodle from Juno, a Bernese mountain dog, and Eddie, a poodle, born January 2, .She is a total love and attention hound. Throughout my day I always have the feeling that sometimes I am being watched. If I leave the house she will assume her position in the front bay window and wait for my return. Sula loves everything and everyone. She always wants to know what is going on. Whether you are driving a car, sitting on the couch, or yes, even sitting at the kitchen counter, Sula is right by your side. She is very vocal and opinionated and will express her opinion any chance she gets! We only wish we knew what she was trying to say. Gibbs is a tiny bernedoodle from the litter of Kia and Pickle, born May 24, .He is as smart as he is adorable. Never having a small dog before Gibbs weighs 15 pounds at 11 months , we decided to fly from Boston to California with Gibbs in a carry-on bag not knowing what to expect. With a five hour flight ahead of us, we were prepared for anything and everything! Gibbs was unbelievable! I was truly amazed at how well he adjusted to this new adventure. We knew Sherry was special the first time we emailed her. We knew she and her pups were worth every penny we would spend on them. Once you make the commitment to Sherry and her pups, you will never look back, or wonder if you made the right choice. And then, when you hold your precious treasure in your arms for the very first time, you will not be able to control that warm and fuzzy feeling that will run through your entire body. The testing, the care, the follow-through, and most importantly her love for her job are just some of the reasons why Sherry Rupke is the very best Breeder of the Pack. He is a tiny bernedoodle owned by the Williams family. Born August 13, .Hendrix was born and his parents are Zoey x Stitch. He has SO much personality. He is spunky, playful, and very smart, yet he is also incredibly cuddly and sweet. He is a dog you can wrestle on the ground with, but will also sit in your lap and cuddle. He LOVES my other dogs and has found his place right in the middle…he respects my 75 pound German Shepherd, Stella, as top dog, but has put my 90 pound Goldendoodle, Woody, in his place — bottom of the pack! But Woody is very submissive and fine with that. I was on the fence about getting a tiny Bernedoodle, as I have always been a big-dog person; however, since I already have two big dogs, I felt it was best to get a tiny, and I have to say, I really love his size. He looks bigger than he weighs because of all his hair, and he is easier to travel with. I have taken Hendrix on trips with the family when he was around 3 months old and could still go in a carrier under the seat of the airplane, and he was perfect on every flight, sleeping the entire way. He mingled with many unfamiliar dogs, was all around the horses, rode around in the golf cart, stayed in the hotel with us, and he received many compliments about how well behaved he is and how adorable he is. The most difficult thing about Hendrix is when he does do something naughty, it is SO hard to punish him because he is so darn cute, and, when he gets in trouble, he is REALLY remorseful and you can tell he feels really, really bad! He has a way of making YOU feel guilty! Thank you for producing such a wonderful, fun breed, and bringing so much joy and love into not only our lives, but everyone else who has the privilege of owning one of your dogs. I know that there will be another Bernedoodle in my future. He is owned by the Douglas family. Thanks to the people at SwissRidge Kennels, we brought him home with more than enough information to incorporate him into our lives. Sherry gave us a lot of information in person at the pick up and backed us up with everything written out in our puppy package. Before getting Paco it was a long and fretful wait, wondering what kind of pup we would get. We knew we would not be disappointed as we had a friend with a SwissRidge standard Bernedoodle. We had our doubts and discussions as we are retired and thought we would not ever get a dog again. Having always had a dog in the house or two and a cat, we missed having one. We are thinking we hit the jackpot with Paco. He has met several new people with the waggiest of little tails for everyone. He is learning simple commands already. He is still not on the loose as we are keeping him safe until he gets all of his shots. We are learning what works and trying to be consistent. This puppy is proving to be very adaptable. He does have his moments, but so far time-outs have proven to settle him down. In two weeks, he meets the grandchildren. We are sure they will be lifelong pals for Paco. She is the obliging passenger on the imaginary bus, comes along for the ride on the kayak and will play fetch or chase whenever the boys ask her to. She loves to join us for great long hikes and, despite being a tiny, will keep up with us and walk the distance. In the summer, she loves the water and will play on the beach or swim in the lake. At puppy daycare she always finds a best friend to snuggle with, but will get right in and play with the others regardless of size. Her best friend is a large dog five times her weight. Both of these puppies have had training by our in-house trainer, Lucas. Bella loves neighborhood walks, hiking, Frisbee, a good game of fetch, and swimming. She is so personable with everyone of all ages. She visits with me in an extend-a-care facility and just seems to sense when she needs to be gentle. It is difficult to have a walk without being stopped on the street to be told how cute she is. Bella house-trained very quickly and easily learned obedience commands. She has a very high energy level but that affords her the ability to enjoy the active lifestyle that we lead. She is never far from her owner and enjoys car rides, vacationing or just hanging out. Bella gets professionally groomed about every five weeks to prevent matting and then only requires a quick daily brushing. It also makes it easier when she spends a great deal of time outside hiking, swimming and playing in the snow. She does not shed with the exception of some hair in the brush when she is groomed. Bella has experienced zero health issues. She has so many goofy facial expressions and mannerisms that just make you happy all the time. She loves to snuggle and follows me everywhere. We love our little fur ball. My hubby never thought he would want a smaller pup but Brittany has stolen his heart, too. She gets along great with children. Thank you, Sherry, for making our family complete! She is so precious! Although we were anxious to get her home, we decided it would be best for us to leave her for four weeks of imprinting. I am so thankful we did! The imprinter did an amazing job of establishing her crate-training schedule sleeping six hours from night one at home and got her basic commands up and running! She adores her toys and is already starting to play fetch. She is very curious about the world around her, taking every opportunity to chase butterflies, watch the birds, or sit and observe cars and people passing by. She is such a delight! We had never before seen a breeder so well loved, respected and trusted. Nor an entrepreneur willing to be so open and honest as to let a social media community of thousands discuss the good, the bad, the great, the ugly about their SwissRidge dogs. The forum of support that Sherry had created and allowed to flow for the benefit of her clients was simply amazing to us. Our family decided that a dog from Sherry was worth the investment, especially since we were looking for a lifetime family member. That decided…deposit in …. This is crazy talk!! AND we have to drool over the pictures as they are updated with no clue which one we are getting?? Have I entered the twilight zone?? Although this approach at first seems ridiculous, it quickly became clear that there was a method to the perceived madness…temperament testing and family matching. All I can say is that Sherry indeed has the magical touch when matching puppies to families. We have kept in touch with the other families in our litter and I can confidently report that each pup is indeed the best match for each family! Crazy, right? Fenway was 2. Right from the beginning she was a positive bundle of energy. She loved her crate, was not much of a nipper, and potty trained within a week. She is the social butterfly of any group and makes friends with all dogs. Her boyfriend at school is a three-year-old German shepherd. She is confident, cuddly, super intelligent and obsessed with balls and toys. She also works with me as a volunteer therapy dog through the Burlington Humane Society. Her disposition of being social and confident lends her well for this important position. You were absolutely correct in your book about all of the puppy phases and attention a puppy needs — I referred to it often. Finn is a great dog — happy, curious, funny, sweet — all of the attributes we wanted! We love watching him learn and grow. Finn is our boat dog and his favorite place is out on the dock with my husband or even better, in the boat fishing. He enjoys the breeze when we are up and running and is right there when we catch a fish! He can launch about halfway across! He is particularly fond of the 3 year old and she loves walking him on his leash around the backyard. She can tell him to sit and stay and he will do it! It is so cute to watch their friendship and innocence. We leave the crate door open at night, but he prefers to sleep with his pack in bed! He just wants to be touching us somewhere! Thank you for your excellence in breeding such a fantastic pup! She weighs 8. Harley gets along incredibly well with other dogs. She lights up our life on a daily basis. Our experience with Sherry was and is amazing. Bo was a surprise birthday present a year ago and he was by far the best birthday present I could have ever received. Bo has a huge personality for a little 10 lb. He absolutely loves people, especially kids, but also loves every dog he sees. He loves walks and runs and hates being wet. Bo is also a great travel companion on airplanes with no issues at all. Bo completes our family for now but we definitely want a second doodle down the road and would choose none other than a SwissRidge. Sherry is one of the most calm, helpful and smart people I know, which was extremely helpful for me as a first time dog owner. Around 6 months old, Bo developed a prolapsed urethra and required surgery to fix the problem. Throughout the whole process, Sherry stayed very involved and wanted to help in any way. Start your puppy off right! See what some of our Forever Owners have to say about our puppies… Sidney is enjoying her new surroundings and loving her morning and afternoon walks to the bus stop. You can tell that her mummy taught her not to stray from her pack! She is the sweetest, most lovable girl and we feel so lucky to have her complete our family. We would like to thank Darrin for all his help — being from Vancouver, we were not able to get out to Calgary to pick a pup but Darrin was terrific sending us many photos from different angles so we could as a family pick the right pup that spoke to all of us. Darrin was also very accommodating, working with us to keep Molly for a few extra weeks and shipping her to us at the right time when we were able to accept her into our home properly. Thank you Darrin! We love Molly and look forward to all our new family adventures together! Anita, Rich, Diego and Melia, B. On October 10th, we were lucky enough to finally meet our puppy Nala. This was after considerable anxiety at not being able to select her in person and only relying on videos, photos and a description of her personality. Darrin was excellent and provided everything we needed to make an informed decision. Thank you Legacy Kennels! The Lawson Family, B. After some research about what breed dog we would add to our family, we decided on a mini bernedoodle. Found Legacy Kennels from an online search, and at that time there were no litters posted on the website. I kept checking every day and felt very lucky to find that 2 litters were born, all tricolour! Contacted Darrin and were put on the waiting list! Nonetheless, communication by email and telephone with LK proved to be pretty effective and we ended up with Chase! He came to us at almost 9 weeks old and 12 lbs, and seemed to have already learned some house training which has made it easier for us. Although all the waiting was almost painful for him to be ready to come home, it was all worth it and we are happy with breeder and with our new little fur ball. Syzula P. Showing 1 - 27 of 27 resultsPage 1 - 27 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. These pups are currently 7 weeks old and I will try to updates the photos once a week. Momma is a 70 lbs Bernese.Please Contact Bernedoodle pups available!!! Alpine Ridge Berners has pups available. This lovely pup not only has great looks, but an awesome personality to go with them! He's grown up with young children since day one, and with.See all Bernedoodle pups available!!! Both parents have their full genetic testing and puppies come with a genetic health.Ready to go. Please refer to our website by clicking the link on kijiji add for availability, prices, pictures and more information. We are an.Mini, medium and standard size will be available. We have opened our.Both males. Both are vet checked with their first set of shots, deworming and.Very sweet and affectionate temperaments, they are medium active. There are more pups than we took reservations for, so we have some extra spots on the list. Fill in an application on our website. Kamloops We have 2 puppies looking for their Furever homes! They have their 1st set of shots ,dewormer, vet check and vet booklet. Super gentle, friendly, Chilliwack We have 2 puppies looking for their Furever homes! He's sweet, goofy, interactive, walks really well on.Vernon These puppies are ready for their new homes! They are vet-checked, vaccinated, and dewormed. These playful puppies are handled daily, and have been given exposure to new people and experiences. Chilliwack We are excited to announce our fall Bernedoodle litter. They will be born mid October and ready to go home mid December. These puppies.Valhalla Mountain Bernedoodles is now accepting applications.Gorgeous Full Tricolor F1 Bernedoodle pups available for adoption. Valhalla Mountain Kennels is now accepting applications our litter of full.First three photos are female. These puppies have been a lot of fun to raise! They have had all their puppy shots so are ready to join.First three puppies are female pics .They have had all their puppy.F1 Bernedoodle puppies also known as Bernese Mountain Poo shed very little and are considered hypoallergenic. The Bernedoodle breed is.We are located with in an hour of Edmonton and deliver to Edmonton and Calgary. For families in BC we.He Will be approximately 60 pounds full grown and has already been health checked and received first set of vaccines. Comes from a family home in.Browse other categories in Pets in British Columbia. We are only 15 minutes to the Castlegar airport or 20 minutes to the city of Nelson, British Columbia. For our American customers, we are located 3 hours north of Spokane Washington. We have a stunning acre farm where we breed and raise our Standard Poodles, Bernese Mountain Dogs and Bernedoodles. We also are breeders of gorgeous Spanish Andalusian Horses. Click here to see Valhalla Andalusians Nestled in a broad curve of the Slocan River in the fertile valley bottom and surrounded by the lush wilderness of the rugged Valhalla and Airy Ranges of the Selkirk Mountains, we are truly in a heavenly place. Life is very good here on the farm and all of our animals lead an enviable existence. Our dogs have the freedom to run and play with each other in a 2-acre fenced yard and the horses are in a acre field where they graze and interact with each other in a herd as nature intended. They are fed the organic hay that we grow, drink the fresh water that cascades down the mountain slopes above and run free in our green pastures from spring until fall. We also have a small vineyard Valhalla Vineyards where even we get spoiled a bit and can drink our own organic wines. Our Breeding Program We are very proud to announce that a number of our dogs have been selected for service work. Because of their intelligence, temperament and a willingness to learn and serve, our pups are now going into hospitals, funeral homes, schools, courthouses and private homes to assist their owners, family members and the general public in a way that only a dog with unconditional love can provide. We take great pride in both our canine and equine breeding programs. Our dogs are of equally good quality. In the past, we have bred Yellow Labrador Retrievers for almost a decade but for the last 7years we have been breeding Standard Poodles, Bernese Mountain dogs and Bernedoodles. We pay a great deal of attention to the details, large and small. For the selection of our breeding dogs, it was of utmost importance that their health is clear, their conformation is superior and their temperament is intelligent and kind. This was our priority and the focus of our quest for great dogs. All have been genetically tested for disease and are either pending testing or have been tested for hips, elbows and heart. Our Bernese Mountain Dogs come from a line of longevity, great conformation and are free of health problems. They all have the lovability and loyalty that is found only in Berners. Bernedoodles The hybrid vigor that the pups get from being a mix of the two breeds makes them more resistant to almost all genetic disorders including hip dysplasia. Our Bernedoodle pups have been a joy to raise. Not only are they adorable but they are growing up to be amazing dogs. They have all been healthy and active dogs completely bound by love and loyalty to their new families. Extremely good with kids and adults alike, our pups have been easy to train and are now great family members.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. The Australian labradoodle is a cute-looking, friendly, and extremely smart mixed breed dog. Developed by crossing the Labrador retriever, poodle, and Cocker Spaniel dog breeds, this designer hybrid was originally created as an allergy-friendly guide dog. Not to be confused with a lively labradoodle, the Australian labradoodle can make an ideal service dog or a low-shedding family companion. Keep on reading to find out! Aussie Labradoodle Overview Size — 14 to 24 inches tall, and weighs between 15 and 65 pounds Coat — Any length, wavy, straight, or curly, single coat, color varies Shedding — Minimal shedding Lifespan — 12 to 15 years Temperament — Highly intelligent, friendly, energetic, and joyful Trainable — Highly trainable, but can become bored if not mentally stimulated Activity — Very active needs around one hour of activity every day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and time to interact with them What Is An Australian Doodle? In fact, there are more differences between an Australian labradoodle and a labradoodle than it meets the eye. The Australian labradoodle, also known as Australian doodle, or Aussie labradoodle was developed by crossing Labrador retriever, Poodle, and Cocker Spaniel dog breeds. This means that breeders now develop Australian labradoodle puppies by breeding two Aussie labradoodle dogs. Australian Labradoodle Appearance Unlike other mixed-breeds, the Aussie labradoodle has been carefully developed since the s with a special focus on temperament, coat quality, and soundness of the breed. This means that there are no surprises when it comes to the looks and temperament of this breed. In terms of general appearance, expect your doodle to look like an adorable plush teddy bear with big and round expressive eyes. Most Aussie labradoodles are between 14 and 24 inches tall and weigh between 15 and 65 pounds. Medium: Between 17 and 20 inches tall and weighing from 30 to 45 pounds. Ideally, females should be 17 to 19 inches tall, and male dogs should be between 18 and 20 inches high. Standard: Between 21 and 24 inches tall at the shoulders and should weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Color These gorgeous dogs can come in a variety of different coat colors and patterns. Depending on their genetic makeup, Australian labradoodles can come in several shades of brown, ranging from an almost-white caramel ice to deep chocolate brown. The most commonly seen patterns in this breed are parti-colored, tuxedo, sable, and phantom, but solid-colored pups are also common. Coat Aussie labradoodles can have two coat types — either a fleece textured or wool textured coat. The fleece-textured coat is very soft and can either be straight, wavy, or have spiraling curls. As you can imagine, a wool-textured coat feels like wool and is usually curly. Aussie Labradoodle Character Aussie labradoodles are very intelligent, people-oriented, loving, and joyful canines. They can also be very comical to have around and are known to entertain their owners with silly antics. Lively and friendly, this breed gets along well with children and can be a great family pet and companion. In fact, when carefully bred for temperament, Australian labradoodles are one of the best service dog breeds thanks to their intuitive, clever, and outgoing nature. This breed inherited the high intelligence of a poodle, meaning they are quick to learn new commands and tricks and are highly trainable. Otherwise, your Aussie labradoodle will soon become bored and might try to have some fun by chewing your shoes or furniture. People-loving and energetic, this breed loves to spend time with its family and will happily play or cuddle with you for hours on end. They crave companionship and are the happiest when surrounded by their human families. Activity Level This energetic, fun, and agile dog is best suited for active people or families that spend most of their time outdoors. While not as energetic as Shepradors or some other Lab mixes, this breed likes to stay active and needs regular exercise. Ideally, you should walk your dog at least twice a day, and if possible, take them hiking or swimming every now and then. Besides taking them for daily walks, you will also need to play with your dog and find ways to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. Caring For An Australian Labradoodle Although a fairly low-maintenance breed, the Australian doodle still needs proper care and attention to stay happy and thrive. Like with any other dog, caring for an Aussie labradoodle will require a bit of time and effort on your part. Here are a few things you should pay attention to! Exercise Being related to both the poodle and Labrador retriever dog breeds, Australian labradoodles are naturally active dogs. Ideally, your Aussie labradoodle will need around one hour of exercise every day. Two longer walks or several shorter walks will give your dog a chance to relieve themselves and burn some excess energy. However, your dog will be extremely pleased if you also add at least 30 minutes of play to your daily routine. And thanks to both poodle and Lab roots, Australian labradoodles are excellent swimmers and will take to playing in the water in no time. Intellectual Stimulation Aussie labradoodles are highly intelligent but they also can get bored quite easily. Without mental stimulation, even the best-behaved Australian doodle will become destructive and find ways to get into trouble. Durable chew toys , puzzles, and tug toys will challenge your pup intellectually and keep their mind occupied in a fun and engaging way. While many dogs might decide to act out or become destructive, most Australian labradoodles develop depression or separation anxiety when left alone at home a lot. The great thing about this breed is that its single coat is non-shedding or low shedding, and as such, they are fairly easy to groom and maintain. Also, using doggy eye wipes can help clean the area around the eyes and remove bacteria-laden eye discharge. The best dog food for Aussie labradoodles is high in protein and has moderate levels of fat and carbs. Known Health Problems While considered generally healthy, the Aussie labradoodle has the potential to develop certain health conditions. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — These conditions are commonly seen in large and medium-sized dogs and are caused by malformation of the hip and elbow joints. Life Expectancy Australian labradoodles have an average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Australian labradoodles were bred to serve as guide dogs, and they are highly intelligent and eager to please. These traits make them easy to train and they are quick to learn new commands and tricks. Start obedience training and socialization when your puppy is eight weeks old to help them grow into a well-behaved and friendly dog. Use positive, reward-based training to teach your dog basic commands and obedience. So, keep the training positive and avoid using harsh corrections and punishment. They also need to be mentally stimulated throughout the day and will need someone to play with. Buying Australian Labradoodle Puppies If you are looking to purchase an Australian labradoodle puppy, find a reputable breeder and schedule an appointment to meet the puppies and both parents. Check your local shelter or rescue organizations to see if they have any Australian labradoodles available for adoption and be prepared to spend some time getting to know your dog. The popularity of the Doodle breeds has possibly led to overbreeding and therefore less than desirable dogs being bred. Be vigilant when choosing a Doodle breeder. History Of The Breeds Labrador Retriever The Labrador retriever is a medium- to large-size working dog that was originally used to retrieve fish and later as a gun dog. Extremely friendly, easy to train, and kind, the Lab is one of the most popular dog breeds and makes a great family companion and service dog. Poodle Best known for its curly coat and elaborate haircuts, the poodle is a water dog breed that comes in three sizes — standard, miniature, and toy. Highly intelligent, easy to train, and loving, the poodle is considered hypoallergenic and makes a great family companion. The Cocker is eager-to-please and a gentle family dog with a sweet temperament and affectionate nature. The main difference between an Australian labradoodle and a labradoodle is in their parents. The labradoodle was developed by crossing a Labrador retriever and a poodle. On the other hand, the Australian labradoodle is a mix of poodle, Labrador retriever, and Cocker Spaniel dog breeds. Are Australian Labradoodles worth the money? There are several reasons why Australian labradoodles are such expensive dogs, but the extra cost is well worth it. Are Australian Labradoodles good family dogs? Australian labradoodles make amazing companions to active families and they get along well with kids and other pets. Extremely friendly, jolly, affectionate, and active, Aussie labradoodles love to spend time with their owners and will enjoy cuddling and playing with you. The Final Verdict Australian labradoodles are highly intelligent, intuitive, and friendly dogs that make great service dogs and family companions. Eager to please, outgoing, and playful, this breed has a lot of energy and is best suited for people with active lifestyles. Before you welcome an Aussie labradoodle into your home, make sure that you can: Play with your dog for at least 30 minutes every day. Keep them mentally stimulated with toys and interactive play. Train and socialize your pooch from a young age. Our friends have an Australian Labradoodle and absolutely love her. Do you own an Australian Labradoodle? Tell us about your experiences in the comment section below. Related Article. Nina is very expressive! She's vocal, loves to cuddle and is always wagging her tail. It is unclear how far the Australians have come in their development. Some breeders are calling multi-generation Labradoodles Australian Labradoodles sometimes there are other breeds mixed in besides Lab and Poodle. Multi-generation Labradoodles are hybrids and are different than the ones being bred by the Australian clubs. The dogs pictured in this info section are the Australian Labradoodles bred in Australia, with the goal of creating purebred dogs. When contacting a breeder selling Australian Labradoodles, be sure to ask what type of Labradoodle they have. Click here for the Australian Labradoodle Standard for dogs being bred by clubs in the country of Australia. Temperament The Australian Labradoodle is good with children and is easy to train. It gets along well with other dogs. It is extremely clever, sociable and joyful, and quick to learn unusual or special tasks. Active, a little comical at times, it can attempt to outsmart its owner if undisciplined. Friendly, though obviously loyal to its own family, this dog is non-aggressive. Height, Weight Standard: Height 22 - 24 inches 53 - 60 cm Standard: Weight Females 45 - 60 pounds 20 - 27 kg Males 55 - 77 pounds 25 - 35 kg Miniature: Height 17 - 22 inches 44 - 56 cm Miniature: Weight 30 - 50 pounds 14 - 25 kg ; males are larger. Living Conditions The Australian Labradoodle will do okay in an apartment if it gets enough exercise. They are moderately active indoors and will do best with at least an average-sized yard. Exercise This breed needs a lot of exercise, which includes long daily walks. Life Expectancy. The intent was to create a breed that was allergy and asthma friendly with the temperament of a service dog. This journey was inspired by a vision-impaired woman in Hawaii who needed a Guide Dog which wouldn't aggravate her husband's allergies. Of the 31 Labradoodles bred at Royal Guide Dogs, a staggering 29 made it through as guide dogs, an accolade of unparalleled proportion for this "new breed" of guide dog. Breeding for Consistency To continue the efforts of Wally Conron, breeders in Australia began breeding Labradoodles and were determined to produce litters with consistent conformation, coat type, and temperament. During the 90's, a number of other dog breeds were bred into the Labradoodle lines to assist in this effort. Most often, the English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel were the breeds used, however, it is reported that a few other dog breeds were also introduced into certain lines. DNA evidence of these dog breeds are still found in a few lines today, while others were bred out and not re-introduced into any other blood lines. The Labradoodle is a cross between two specific dogs, the Labrador Retriever and Poodle. Protecting Australian Labradoodle Lines Organizations have been formed to protect the continued development of the Australian Labradoodle lines, and guidelines for the continued introduction of English and American Cocker Spaniel are followed carefully. Infusion committees also discuss the merits of other possible dog breeds being allowed careful introduction into select lines. It is an exciting time to be involved in the development of this breed. Temperament: Friendly, gentle, and intelligent. Australian Labradoodle Appearance Since it is a hybrid the Australian Labradoodle does not have any breed standards. Regardless of size, this stocky but graceful pooch is often covered in a curly coat just like their Poodle parents. Due to its fur having the more hair-like qualities of a Poodle the Australian Labradoodle is a low-shedding dog. With soulful eyes and a dark button nose, many may mistake it as a large teddy bear if it was not for its constantly wagging tail! Height and Weight These pups come in a variety of sizes: Miniatures often stand around 14 to 16 inches tall, weighing 15 to 25 pounds. Mediums often stand 17 to 20 inches tall, weighing 30 to 45 pounds. Standards often stand 21 to 24 inches tall and weigh 50 to 65 pounds. For those living in apartments or smaller homes, a Miniature or Medium would be ideal. Colors and Coat Australian Labradoodles often come in several shades of brown, from the milkiest cream to the silkiest dark chocolate. However, you can also find them in colors such as apricot and lavender. Their coats often come in three types: Hair, Fleece, and Wool. Hair is the loosest among the coat types, with a texture resembling a shaggy Labrador. Fleece lies somewhere in the middle, being softer and silkier than Wool but wavier than the Hair variety. This texture will shed less than the Hair type and is easy to manage. Wool is the curliest of the coat types most resembling a Poodle. This texture sheds little to none and is considered the most allergy-friendly. This texture will require regular weekly brushing and professional grooming to avoid matting. Expect smooth sailing when it comes to training as all its parent breeds are famous for being eager to please. Almost all the breeds that make up the Australian Labradoodle are in the sporting group so expect your pup to be as active as its parent breeds. The Cocker Spaniel and the Labrador Retriever are both known for their friendliness, making this social pup the life of the party. Wally Conron bred the first Labradoodle after a visually impaired woman named Pat Blum contacted him. Australian Labradoodle Personality and Temperament This hybrid is known for having the friendliness of a Labrador, the gentleness of an American Cocker Spaniel, the merriness of an English Cocker Spaniel, and the intelligence of a Poodle. Because of these qualities, they are the perfect family pet — energetic enough for the kids to play with and entertaining to watch in action. Due to their high intelligence, you will have fun finding creative ways to stimulate their minds. A fun family activity can be training them a variety of tricks or creating puzzle games for your furry little Einstein to solve. With proper training and socialization, they should be able to get along with all animals and humans. They are moderately active thanks to their parent breeds. Whether you are an on-the-go family or a sporty pet parent, this pooch should be able to keep up with you on all your hikes and runs. However, it will happily cuddle on the couch with you after a long day. Noise-wise, this dog is not known for being yappy. This dog can be a lot to handle for first-time owners and can get bored without enough mental and physical stimulation. However smaller Australian Labradoodles can thrive in an apartment or condo if given the right amount of exercise and entertainment. If you can put in the time to train and exercise you will be rewarded with a friend for a lifetime. Caring for an Australian Labradoodle Caring for an Australian Labradoodle requires a fair amount of time and effort due to their high intelligence and reasonable activity level. An active family or pet parent with time to dedicate to their physical and mental stimulation is best suited for this mix. As well as basic hygiene their unique coat requires professional grooming. Depending on their coat texture this may vary, but they will need regular appointments to a groomer to trim their coat and regular brushing to avoid mats. Grooming and adequate mental stimulation are very important and lead to a happy and healthy pup. Exercise Requirements With a lineage of active breeds, the Australian Labradoodle requires a reasonable amount of exercise. A minimum minute long walk would be enough for an adult, but several shorter walks throughout the day can also work. However, your pooch would not complain if you also added 30 minutes of off-leash play. They will enjoy the basic doggie games of fetch and tug-of-war, but feel free to be creative with this lively breed. With its Labrador roots, try taking fetch to the next level by teaching them to fetch in the water. The added activity of swimming back and forth will require more energy than your average park playdate. Taking your pup hiking can help with mental stimulation as your pup is introduced to new sights and smells. Agility training can also be a great option for those with backyards. All in all, a happy dog is a tired dog, and making sure to properly exercise your furry friend can prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Number of Walks Per Day: .Total Exercise Needed Per Day: minutes. Grooming and Shedding For an Australian Labradoodle, grooming can look different depending on the coat type they have. Hair-type coats will need weekly brushing to prevent odor and tangles. As this coat type sheds on its own it is likely that your dog will need fewer visits to the groomer. Fleece-type coats will need longer and more thorough weekly brushing sessions. Your furry friend will need a weekly bath and an appointment with a professional groomer every weeks. Wool-type coats are most manageable when kept short, with weekly brushing and grooming appointments every month to keep your pooch looking smart. In addition to the above, cleaning their ears once a month will help prevent infection. Using eye wipes can keep bacteria-filled gunk away but be sure to look for a brand that does not contain irritants. However, a good rule of thumb when choosing kibble is to avoid a brand that overuses byproducts and fillers. A good kibble brand will be complete and balanced with the necessary nutrients your dog needs to be healthy. You should consider grain-free as research has found this could be better for your pup. When calculating the number of calories your dog will need, consider energy level and weight. A general rule is to add calories for every pound your dog weighs. Of course, getting the advice of your vet is always key if you are ever unsure. Hip Dysplasia: Usual with most medium to large dogs where the hip joint becomes unstable and causes bone spurs and limping. The good news is that buying from a reputable breeder can decrease the likelihood of your dog inheriting these diseases. Having pet insurance could save you the headache of going to the vets. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Due to their high energy levels and complex needs, the Australian Labradoodle may not be the best fit for novice dog owners. Previous experience with other highly intelligent breeds, such as the Border Collie , can be advantageous since dealing with their occasional stubbornness can be challenging. Adequate mental and physical stimulation is vital for this breed, as without it, they may become bored and frustrated despite the love showered upon them. Separation anxiety can be a concern with the Australian Labradoodle. A minimum of 50 minutes of daily walks is recommended, with even more exercise being ideal. Additionally, mental stimulation through training and scentwork activities is essential to keep their minds engaged. Providing various forms of enrichment can prevent frustrating behaviors like excessive barking and chewing, which may arise when they feel understimulated or bored. Australian Labradoodle Highlights Friendly and affectionate: Australian Labradoodles are known for their loving and gentle personalities. They are very good with children and other pets, and they make great family dogs. Intelligent and easy to train: Australian Labradoodles are relatively intelligent dogs and are easy to train with positive reinforcement. They are eager to please their owners and love to learn new things. Low-maintenance: Australian Labradoodles are relatively low-maintenance dogs, but they do require some regular exercise and grooming. They should be brushed at least once a week to prevent mats and tangles. They may also need to be trimmed or clipped every few months, depending on the length of their coat. Hypoallergenic: Australian Labradoodles are often considered to be hypoallergenic, meaning that they do not shed as much as other dogs and are less likely to trigger allergies. However, it is important to note that no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Versatile: Australian Labradoodles can adapt to a variety of living situations, including apartments and houses. They are also good with a variety of activities, such as hiking, swimming, and playing fetch. Overall, the Australian Labradoodle is a wonderful breed of dog that is perfect for families with children or active adults. They are loving, intelligent, and easy to care for. If you are looking for a new furry friend, the Australian Labradoodle is a great option to consider. Australian Labradoodle History The Australian Labradoodle is a prime example of carefully planned crossbreeding, originating in Australia during the s. While Australian Labradoodle guide dogs have been successfully trained and placed in Australia and Hawaii, achieving the non-shedding characteristic of the Standard Poodle has not yet become a fixed trait. However, Australians took it a step further, considering it not just a Labrador x Poodle cross, but a distinct breed that was developed over many years with specific goals in mind. To achieve these goals, further development involved infusing parent breeds into the existing Labrador x Poodle lines. The breed developers sought to complement the Australian Labradoodle and cultivate the qualities they admired and cherished in these dogs. In , the first Australian Labradoodle Breed Standard was written, reflecting these aspirations. As of now, the Australian Labradoodle comprises six different breeds in its origin. Australian Labradoodle Size The Australian Labradoodle is a generously sized mixed breed with no fixed breed standard, resulting in a wide variety of coat colors due to the combination of their parent breeds. Their coats are typically thick, displaying a lovely blend of curls or waves, and their ears are characterized by floppy, curly hair. While the most common coat colors are solid yellow, tricolor, or merle, this crossbreed can exhibit an array of captivating color combinations. Australian Labradoodle Personality The Australian Labradoodle is known for its generally good-natured and affectionate demeanor towards familiar people, but they can sometimes be reserved or cautious around strangers. Early socialization is vital for all dogs, regardless of their typical temperament, as it helps prevent reactivity towards people or other dogs, ensuring they can enjoy various experiences, such as visiting dog-friendly establishments or playing at the dog park. Without proper exposure, this devoted breed may develop reactive behavior towards perceived threats. Consistent training from a young age is essential for enhancing their overall quality of life and yours as they grow into adulthood. Employing positive reinforcement training consistently and firmly is crucial, and if you notice harmful behaviors or limited progress, seeking assistance from a professional trainer as soon as possible is recommended. Australian Labradoodle Health When the Australian Labradoodle is bred by a responsible breeder, they often enjoy good health. Crossbreeding, including designer dog breeds like the Labradoodle, can reduce the risk of common ailments found in purebred dogs. Potential Health Issues include:. The Australian Labradoodle originated in Australia hence the name in the s and was intentionally bred for service and therapy work. They should also not be confused with an American Labradoodle which is the cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle only. Their eager to please attitude and high intelligence makes them easy to train. As with any breed though, you will need to be consistent! They do best with positive reinforcement and a gentle trainer. Basic training should begin as soon as you bring your Australian Labradoodle puppy home. While Australian Labradoodles are known to have a low to moderate energy level, they are an intelligent breed that requires mental simulation and physical exercise in order to keep them happy and healthy! Their exercise needs can typically be met with about minutes of exercise playing, walking, etc. It is important to remember that not all Australian Labradoodles are the same and some may enjoy more or less exercise to keep them happy and healthy! Australian Labradoodles are a very friendly, social breed that loves everyone making them great family dogs. They are sensitive and can be very in-tune with their humans, who they love to be with! The do not do well if left alone for extended periods of time. Australian Labradoodles are happy go lucky dogs that are playful and smart. Always keeping their humans on their toes! The life expectancy of an Australian Labradoodle is between years. In general, smaller dogs tend to live longer than larger dogs. It is important to keep in mind that many factors can affect their life expectancy such as diet, exercise, injury, genetics, etc. Australian Labradoodles are known to be gentle, mellow cross that is smart and eager to please. Their happy go lucky personality makes them great individual or family dogs. Australian Labradoodles come in several different sizes micro mini, mini, medium, and standard which means there is the perfect size for everyone! Australian Labradoodles have been intentionally bred for several generations making their traits and characteristics more predictable. Australian Labradoodles have three main coat types: Fleece: A Fleece coat can either be wavy or curly and will have a silky feel. These are typically non-shedding and relatively easy to maintain. Wool: A wool coat is curly, with a Poodle-like texture, has a cotton-like feel. These are usually non-shedding and can be a bit harder to maintain if kept long. Hair: A hair coat can be either straight or have a slight wave and is comparable to a lower generation ie F1 Labradoodle. These have are typically easy to maintain and have higher chance of shedding, but will vary by puppy. Multigenerational Australian Labradoodles that have been intentionally bred for several generations are typically non-shedding or very low-shedding. However, it is important to note that some breeders we do occasionally will do infusion litters with one of the parent breeds ie the Lab or Cocker Spaniel. These infusion litters may produce some puppies that are low to moderate shedding depending on their genetics. Australian Labradoodles can come in very wide variety of colors and patterns! Below are some examples of the colors and different patterns that we produce. Please note that not all colors and patterns are included! We at Aussie Labradoodle believe we are breeding the most loving, healthy, and reliable family pets around! Of course, we may be a bit biased :. Beginning with our first imported Australian Labradoodle, Macey, from Tegan Park in Australia, we've been doing our best to improve this breed since ! Initially bred in in Australia to provide assistance dogs for folks with allergies, the Australian Labradoodle became a beloved family pet that offered the best of both worlds: a large family-oriented people pleaser, highly intelligent, with low shedding to no shedding and no doggie odor. Today in Australia they sometimes call them Cobberdogs. We use only the top quality Australian and American multigenerational lines in our breeding program. We take health testing seriously, and were among the first to test hips and elbows in many lines coming out of Australia. And we are absolutely thrilled with the outcome! Although we cannot foresee every problem that could present itself, we are doing all we can to minimize the chances of health problems in our doodles. We also offer a two-year health guarantee against genetic health issues to give you peace of mind. The foundation of our Australian Labradoodle breeding stock, Macey, was purchased in whelp from Tegan Park in Australia. She blessed us with gorgeous chocolate and cream labradoodle babies and has since retired. Two of her chocolate offspring, Kona and Bella, became the foundation of our breeding stock. By cataloging helpful information about the breed and offering networking services to breeders and owners, we promote responsible dog companionship and strive to make a positive difference in the Australian Labradoodle community. All purebred dogs began by crossbreeding dogs of two or more different breeds to achieve desirable traits. Dogs displaying those traits were bred to each other to continue the breed development. This has been going on for hundreds of years. The development of the Australian Labradoodle is no different. Forward thinking breeders in Australia began breeding these labradoodles to a number of other dog breeds in an effort to produce litters with consistent conformation, coat type, and temperament. Most often the English Cocker Spaniel and American Cocker Spaniel were the breeds used with the labradoodle, however, it is reported that a few other dog breeds were also introduced into certain early lines. It is the combination of all these breeds that make up what we call the Australian Labradoodle today. The Australian Labradoodle is a purpose bred dog, with its beginnings as a service dog. Today it is also sought out as a family companion especially for those who suffer from allergies or prefer its non-shedding qualities. Here in the USA, the Australian Labradoodle Association of America ALAA has been monitoring the development of this breed by maintaining a database of pedigrees and health testing of registered dogs for almost twenty years. While the Australian Labradoodle is not considered an AKC recognized breed, we do have a breed standard that conscientious breeders work towards. We have elected to keep our stud books open which means we allow for the development of new lines using registered Labradors, Poodles and Cocker Spaniels in an effort to expand our gene pool and keep inbreeding to a minimum. These new lines are then bred into existing lines that date back to the founding dogs from Australia. This of course is an option for breeders and there are many who are only working with descendants of the dogs from Australia while others have dogs that are a combination of old and new lines. It is our breed standard and our pedigree database that dictates the breed development and breeders choose pairings to improve temperament, coat and structure working within the guidelines set out by the ALAA. The ALAA has made extensive efforts to track and verify the pedigrees of our registered dogs, therefore, an ALAA verified pedigree is the only true identifier of an Australian Labradoodle. Find an Australian Labradoodle. Irish Water Spaniel. Australian Labradoodle Breeds These breeds are selectively mixed together to create a dog with a winning temperament. But also with a low-shedding coat. Australian Labradoodles have been bred this way since the s. Even now, breeders are striving to make a consistent set of breed-specific traits. They hope these can be reliably passed down from one generation to the next. The breed standard was introduced in .And many enthusiasts hope they will eventually be recognized as a breed in their own right. Fun Fact! And of those 31, 29 became guide dogs. Pretty impressive for the first-ever batch of this brand-new mix. Australian Labradoodle Size Australian Labradoodles full grown can reach around 24 inches tall and weigh about 77 lbs. This will be slightly more for males on average than for females. Doodle Coats and Colors They can have one of two coat types. Either fleece-textured or wool-textured. They are often described as teddy bear-like. And this certainly adds to their appeal! Fleece-textured coats are soft and either straight or wavy. They can also have spiral-shaped curls. Wool-textured coats feel—you guessed it! There are loads of different Australian Labradoodle colors! Some of the most popular include black, red, white, apricot, caramel and even parti patterns. Grooming Whether your Australian Labradoodle has a fleece- or wool-textured coat, they will need regular brushing. Usually around once a week. You might find it useful to enlist a professional groomer. When grooming, be sure to check your pup;s eyes and ears. Australian Labradoodle Temperament Australian Labradoodles are gentle, loyal, and sociable. They are not aggressive and are very good with children. Plus, they are intelligent and quick to learn. In fact, they are widely used as therapy and service dogs. Naturally playful, they enjoy time with their human families. But they should not be left alone or in crates for too long. Also, Australian Labradoodles are active dogs. They need a large amount of daily activity. At least minutes is ideal. And as a result, relatively easy to train. And puppies that are socialized early are less likely to display behavioral problems later on. Research shows that positive, rewards-based training is more effective than punishment-based training. In fact, punishments negatively affect behavior. This will help prevent weight problems. Some evidence suggests mixed-breed dogs experience fewer inherited disorders than their purebred counterparts. The limited gene pools of purebreds can cause a number of health-related issues. This is due to years of inbreeding. They may still inherit certain health conditions from either parent. An Australian Labradoodle is a great fit if you have children or other pets. They tend to be calmer than the standard Labradoodle. Early socialization and consistent rewards-based training will help your Australian Labradoodle become a great people-pleaser. But, if you work away from home for long hours, this pup may not be the best choice.

When nearing July or August, It is not uncommon to see Doodles wondering around shaved almost to the skin, and by reading the rest of this article, you will get to learn why their owners are doing more harm than good. Basically, the only time you should ever really shave your Labradoodle is when a vet does it for a medical purpose. If you start to mess around with where the hair grows and how long it should be, you might screw up a basic function that keeps your dog comfortable and safe. Why Is Shaving Labradoodles Popular? But if there are so many problems that originate from shaving a Doodle, why is it so common? The main reason for that is probably because shaving is a good solution for other breeds. The Poodle, for example, is a breed of dog that is generally shaved quite a lot and seeing as Labradoodles stem from those, it would often make sense that they should be shaved equally as much. But unless your Labradoodle has extensive Poodle within its DNA genetic make-up, the Doodle coat is never as thick as a purebred Poodle. Double-coated Dogs Unlike breeds with hair, a Labradoodle has two layers of fur. This type of fur is different from the hair on other breeds. One example of this is that double-coated dogs have fur that grows to a determined length. The layer on the bottom is called an undercoat and is softer and shorter, where the longer hairs are more coarse and they are placed over the undercoat much like a blanket. When talking about temperatures, the outer oat and undercoat work together to insulate your dog against the heat and cold. So if you shave the outer layer, it will allow the heat to come in. Think of it like leaving the lid open on a cooler and then expecting that it will still be able to keep your drinks nice and cold. Protection From Sunburn Not only is the double-coat able to insulate the Labradoodle but it also gives great protection against the sun. Sunburns can lead to very severe issues for your dog, including heatstroke which can be fatal to anybody. This is another example of how our efforts to alleviate one issue expose our dogs to even more serious issues. As an example, the coat under the legs is usually longer and softer and this helps to provide some friction relief when your dog is running around playing for hours or if he is following you for a long run. The problem with that situation is that the undercoat gets all messed up whenever you shave the outer coat. Congratulations, your dog can now end up being too hot in the summer and too cold for the winter. How To Keep Your Labradoodle Cool In The Summer So, if you really want to make sure that your doodle stays cool in the summer, shaving is perhaps the worst possible solution. Panting is one of the only ways that dogs can regulate their body temperatures. The way a dog regulates their body temperatures is by panting. And when people then assume that shaving their Labradoodle will help it endure hotter temperatures, the problem is that it only gets worse. So, what can you do to keep your Labradoodle cool? There are many different ways you can help your dog stay cool for the summer, and here are a few of my tips. Get a pool in the backyard Labradoodles love the water, and getting a pool in your backyard is a guaranteed success! Place water in the shade Remember that shade moves throughout the day, so moving a water bowl with the shade will prevent the water from getting overheated. Avoiding Heat Strokes Heat strokes can be fatal to anybody, so you should do anything possible to avoid it happening to your dog. A shaved Labradoodle is much more likely to get issues with the heat in the summer than one that has just been groomed properly without overdoing it. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Yes, you can shave a Labradoodle. Labradoodles have a Poodle style coat with a single layer — which means you can safely shave most of their coat with very few drawbacks. Labradoodle Max looking handsome even before his haircut. The downside is that the shaved look will mean a fairly long wait for regrowth if you want to go back to a full-coated look later on. There are pros and cons to shaving your Labradoodle. You gain utility, but lose looks. Blue Merle Labradoodle Guide A shaved coat can help to reduce heat during hot weather. If you live in an area where temperatures regularly reach high heat or high humidity, shaving your Labradoodle may be beneficial. There is less chance for moisture and heat-related rashes — as well as general overheating. You ARE removing some of the protective sun-blocking hair though so be mindful of dog sunburn, Shaving your Labradoodle can make them easier to groom. There is less matting under the leg areas like where harnesses and collars rub. A shaved coat makes it easier to clean your Labradoodle. It is much easier to shampoo and wash a dirty Labradoodle with shorter hair. Shaving your dog is an extremely controversial topic among dog owners. There is a distinction between the types of coats that dogs have they makes all the difference. It should NOT be controversial to shave the coats of dogs with a single coat like Doodle dogs Labradoodles, Cavapoos, Goldendoodles, etc. If your dog DOES have a double coat though — listen to the expert advice from groomers and Vets — and steer well clear of a full shave. A Labradoodle with shaved hair looks like… a Labradoodle. Obvious point aside, check out the images throughout this article. Shaved Labradoodles DO appear more Poodle-like in most cases. Many Labradoodles have a higher percentage of Poodle genetics. F1b and F2 Labradoodles are super low shedding and sometimes smaller. They are the most in-demand generations of Labradoodles. They have a higher percentage of Poodle genetics learn about the Labradoodle generations here and therefore have the body type of a Poodle. Hiding beneath the glorious and fluffy Labradoodle coat is the lithe body of a dog breed that was specifically bred for water retrieval while hunting. Surprisingly skinny! Shaving a Labradoodle to the bare skin will often leave them looking naked. Try to leave a little length for some dignity. Most Labradoodle owners will trim the face and ears of their Labradoodle but leave them a little longer. This helps maintain some of that gorgeous and distinct Oodle look the teddy bear face that Labradoodles are so known for. With Max my apricot miniature Labradoodle — we DO trim the ear hair a little — but try to leave the furnishings around the snout to give a less extreme look. Most Labradoodles have surprisingly long hair, making grooming simple, when there is no knots. Labradoodle hair regrows fairly quickly, give it 8 weeks and you will be back to fluffy. If you do commit to a shaved Labradoodle — remember the old saying that the difference between a bad haircut and a good haircut is a few weeks of regrowth. For a shaved Labradoodle though expected 8 weeks before you get decent growth that makes your Labradoodle much more like a teddy bear again. How fast does Labradoodle hair grow? The average length of time for a Labradoodle to grow back after being shaved is approximately 8 weeks. The first week is usually the hardest visually — but the hair IS growing. The hair grows at a steady pace. It takes about months to fully recover from a shaved Labradoodle back to luscious locks. You just need to wait. Labradoodle puppy sitting on a tree trunk. Brush your dog daily. Just brush their coat once a day while waiting. Over brushing can cause hair loss itself — but this is unlikely from a quick slicker brush once every day or so. Keep up with bathing — but only when needed. Bathing, when required, helps prevent dry skin and keeps your dog clean — and stops irritation that can slow down hair growth. Make sure to use a Labradoodle-appropriate dog shampoo even when they have short hair. Use a blunt stainless steel comb. Try using a wide-toothed comb, especially if your dog has long hair. Skin can become infected through excessive scratching. Check for fleas. A flea infestation can lead to itching and irritation — which in turn slows down hair growth. Remove dead fleas immediately. Monitor for skin allergies from food or treats — as this can reduce the regrowth rate of hair. Will Shaving my Labradoodle Prevent Shedding? Shaving your Labradoodle will not reduce shedding. The hair that does shed will be shorter which can benefit some people — but the hair and dander will still shed. There are risks associated with the process of shaving if done poorly which could increase shedding. These shedding increasing issues include injury to the skin and underlying tissue, infection, bleeding, and allergic reactions. If you want to try shaving, start small. Try just trimming around their ears and muzzle. How to Shave a Labradoodle It is fairly easy to shave a Labradoodle — once they are used to it. Of the Labradoodle haircuts — this is the easiest for amateurs and at-home groomers. There are other bits of equipment that are nice to have — but are not really necessary. A grooming table or restraint, nail clippers, a blunt stainless steel comb, and even detangling spray can be useful but are not essential in most cases. The hardest part is getting your Labradoodle to stand still for you to groom. We just hold Max our Mini Labradoodle by hand but a restraint or collar will help for some. Start with a moderate length and then adjust once you get an idea of how the shaved Labradoodle will look. We go fairly short for the beach with about a mm 0. Start with the flat easy areas. The back and body first. Legs are tricky and fiddly with many angles. Do these next. The chest and belly that was not finished in step two is next. If your dog has longer ears akin to a Cockapoo determine length and cut the length first before gently shaving the other surface only. You can use blunt ended scissors for a clean finish if your shaver is not up to scratch. Consider cutting the cheek and jowl area first, then under the chin, then finish up with the moustache. Leave the furnishings moustache if you want a teddy bear look on your shaved Labradoodle. If whiskers get cut during the shave this is not the end of the world — but it is ideal to leave them alone where possible. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. It should take about an hour to DIY shave a Labradoodle. The first few times may be a bit longer. Remember the following tips to make your life easier Putting your Labradoodle on a raised surface provided they are secured will save your back and neck Have plenty of treats handy for bribery You can do a solid first pass then do a tidy-up the next day. No points for perfection — spend the extra time rewarding and treating your dog. Should I Shave My Labradoodle? Labradoodle with white and black coat. This is a common reason many of us do go for a shaved Labradoodle look. Personally, we live so close to the beach and the days are so warm that overheating from exercise outweighs many of the risks of shaving the Labradoodle coat. There are two sides to shaving your Labradoodle. Shaving too short causes problems when it comes to grooming and hygiene. This can lead to skin infections. And that can lead to serious health issues. And it helps prevent parasites. The same goes for fleas. If you want to avoid getting bitten by fleas, make sure your pet gets a trim every month. This will help reduce the number of flea eggs they shed throughout the season. Your dog will dry faster when washed and his skin will be better protected against bacteria. When you groom your dog, you are helping him maintain a healthy immune system. In addition to preventing infection, grooming keeps the skin moisturized. Dry skin can lead to itching and irritation. Here are some things to consider before you decide to shave your pet. Labradoodle grooming ideas and tips 1. This can cause irritation and possibly even bald spots. You might find yourself spending more time grooming your pooch, while less time getting ready to go out. In reality, there is little to no difference to a single-coated Labradoodle coat when shaved. It is basically just a really short haircut. How to keep your Labradoodle cool in summer Dog owners know how important it is to take care of their furry friends, especially during the warmer months. But what do you do when your pup gets overheated? A black Labradoodle on a paddleboard. Wearing a floatation vest. They are good swimmers but all dogs can get tired. A cooling vest If you have a dog that tends to get hot, try using a cooling vest. They come in various sizes and styles so you can choose one that fits your dog best. Use Ice Cubes You can also freeze ice cubes in a plastic bag and place them inside cooling best. You can also put ice cubes in water that might be warmer to provide a cool drink throughout the day 3. Limit sun exposure Less time in the sun, less heat, less issues. Monitor the time your longer haired Labradoodle spends outside Labradoodle shaking dry after bath. Takeaways for the Shaved Labradoodle grooming style Shaving a Labradoodle is a legitimate haircut with many upsides all year round but particularly during the hot summer months Shaving a Labradoodle does NOT change the coat color or type of coat a Labradoodle has Shaved Labradoodles still shed the same amount though the physical hair shed is smaller Shaving a Labradoodle can reduce heatstroke and overheating risk, but increases the risk of dog sunburn while exposing the skin to sun damage It takes around 8 weeks for a shaved Labradoodle to return to the longer-haired look You will avoid severe matting, but will still need regular brushing and regular grooming every couple of weeks. A consistent grooming routine is still necessary I love my Labradoodle Max and his adorable teddy bear look — but the benefits of a shaved haircut for our beach-loving pup mean he gets a shave or two every summer. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Labradoodle Grooming instructions, Labradoodle Haircuts Should your Labradoodle coat be short, medium or long? How to groom a labradoodle. I believe Australian Labradoodles should have a natural look even after being groomed. If you find a picture of a labradoodle cut you like, print it and take it in to the groomer. This does not mean twice a year is the only time you give them a bath or minor trim of course. This is what I do. Twice a year I shave the main body down to about a half inch. This is neck, body to knees including belly and tush. Monthly, I do a minor trim. This involves trimming the head, tail, tush, and feet. As needed, I use an excellent pair of thinning shears to remove matts. I find the more you brush and fuss with their coat the more they tend to matt. If they smell for some reason I give them a bath. In a nut shell: Trim the ears. Along the back edge of the ear tight and curved along the ear leather. Length of ear should be short to just short of the nose if pulled forward. Hair on the ear should be layered on the outside to about an inch and shaved underneath the ear leather and behind the ear against the neck. Clean out hair in ear canal. Top of the head layered about an inch or two long. Trim the top of the head above the eyes at an angle short just over the eyes, try and leave long eyelashes to allow the eyelash to hold up the hair on top as it grows. You want to see their eyes easily. Below the eye at the muzzle, trim the top of the muzzle short at an angle just under the eyes so they can see easily. The muzzle should be layer and round NOT long and blunt cut. Feet, shave the body but leave below the knees what I call "Doodle Boots" hand trimmed to be big, round and floppy. Not short poodle feet. Shave the entire body not head, feet or tail What tools I own to groom my dogs? Bath: I use any puppy shampoo that smells good. To trim above and below the eyes: Tweezerman Baby Nail Scissors, these are sharp, curved and have a blunt end, so no poking eyes. To work in the ears: Miracle care, Ear care, Ear powder, step 1. This makes it super easy to just pull ear hair out with your fingers and for hair that is deeper inside I use a pair of hemostats my vet gave me. Note, I also feed coconut oil daily 1 tsp per 10 lbs to keep bacteria away. To work all over in general: a fantastic pair of thinning shears the Geib thinning shears I have are no longer made but I suggest Geib Gator Tooth Double-sided thinning shears plus a great pair of scissors, make sure the point is not too sharp. Remember, I do not brush much just where matts are found. In detail: General Labradoodle Grooming BODY Cut Thin all mats with thinning shears, brush or pull the matts out, trim with scissors all over to the desired length Or shave the dog down to about an inch all over the body not knees to feet, head, or tail and let it just grow out number 10 blade and E comb. This can be done twice a year and ends with the least amount of grooming required over a year. TUSH area Taper hind quarters to tail gradually with shaver or scissors don't shave the top of the tail. Make the transition from body to tail a gradual transition. Shave or trim close the tush and private areas. In the summer, I usually shave the belly super short to keep cool and dry fast if swimming. Pull all hair from the ear canal and shave the underside of ear leather near ear canal. To clean the ears: Click for Ear Powder this is the product I use which works great. I do not squeeze it in, it tends to clump out in a big spurt or not at all. I take a Qtip and open it up and dip the q tip into the powder. This will give you a good amount. Rub the Qtip in the ear canal, if you lift up the ear the ear tends to open wide. You can twist the Qtip around and most hair will stick and pull out. Then using your fingers it is easy to remove the hair once the powder is in there. This will both remove the hair and dry out the ear. I do shave the ear underneath and behind the ear to allow more airflow. You can ask the groomer to do this as well. This will keep ears from getting bacteria. Thin out or shave with medium blade, the hair on neck just behind and under the ears to allow ears to lay flat and air to get under the ear. Usually the coat below the ear flap and along the neck gets matted due to a collar, so shaving it helps with matting as well. Grooming EARS outside Trim outside of ear flap this is the hair hanging down on the ear flap pictured below left , it should be layered. The outside of the ear should NOT be a long blunt cut like a cocker spaniel. The hair should be pulled outward and layer trim to about an inch. The length of the ear hair should be cut to a length that when you pull the ear forward the hair ends between the nose and canines long teeth. Pictured below right. I then trim the back side of the ear in a curve along the ear leather line. It should be a round circle with a short edge at the top near the eyes, so they can see. Trim the top side of the muzzle from the eye to the nose at an angle starting at the nose about inches above the nose angled down into the stop point where muzzle transitions to head. Pictured below left. Top along eye. Trim the muzzle below the eyes short just inside the eyes almost to a point to allow clear vision. Trim hair along lip line to keep hair out of mouth, you can also just thin out that area. Lip line hair should be thinned and left about 1 inch at most below lip. You may want to thin out with thinning shears under chin to neck, an area that can mat easier. The beard should round out the look. I trim the muzzle to about an inch or two all around. Even then, labradoodle owners have their own shaving requirements. I spent a bit of time reading through forums and websites to find any shaving tips that could help me meet my Labradoodle's needs. Determine what type of coat a Labradoodle has. Labradoodles can have several different types of coats. The type of coat a Labradoodle will have depends on the parent breeds involved and genetics. A few common coat types are: Curly: This is the most common type of coat for Australian Labradoodles. These coats are generally low to non-shedding, with varying degrees of curliness. Wool: This is the second most common type of coat for Australian Labradoodles. These coats are generally non-shedding and very curly. Hair: This is the least common type of coat for Australian Labradoodles. Hair coats can be straight or wavy, but they are less likely to be curly. They are usually non-shedding, similar to wool coats, but they do tend to require more grooming to stay smooth and silky. In addition, he needs regular grooming in order to keep his coat and skin clean and healthy as well as prevent matting and tangling. Choose the right shaving tools for the job When it comes to shaving a dog, you need to think about the breed, the dog's coat and the individual dog. Labradoodles are characterized by their long, silky hair that can be difficult to work with. They also tend to be rather sensitive to the blade so choose one that is sharp and easy to maneuver. Labradoodles are prone to skin irritation or allergies due to their hypoallergenic coat and this can cause uncomfortable reactions in some dogs when they come into contact with hair removal tools. These reactions can range from redness or a rash on the skin all the way up to allergic reactions such as vomiting or diarrhea. The type you choose will depend on what type of coat your dog has, and this will also vary depending on whether it is a short-haired Labrador or a long-haired one. If your pet has a longer fur then you will probably have more options available when you go shopping for shaving tools; however, if your Labradoodle has a shorter coat then you will have fewer options available. Brush the dog before bathing and drying him Brushing your dog before bathing and drying him doesn't just help keep the fur manageable, it also helps prevent tangles, mats and knotting. It's much easier to brush through a dry coat than one that's wet and tangled. To dry your dog, use a dryer or hairdryer; if you use a hairdryer, set it to the lowest setting. Hold it at least 12 inches from your dog's skin and always brush in the direction of the fur while drying. When drying your dog, be careful not to leave him in an unventilated room because dampness can cause heat stroke. Be especially careful with smaller dogs, puppies and long-haired dogs because they can easily overheat. Use a thinning shear on long, thick hair when you shaving your dog If you have long, thick hair, you'll need to use a thinning shear to make it easier to manage. Start by finding the right thinning shear. The number of "teeth" on the shear is a matter of personal preference — some people prefer more teeth for a finer cut, while others like fewer teeth for a chunkier look. Part your hair where you want it to fall and then start cutting from the bottom up. Make sure that you do not cut your bangs or the sides of your hair because the teeth on the shears are sharp and can ruin your cut. Another option is to use an electric razor with an adjustable blade. You can find these at most department stores or online at sites such as Amazon. Use a stripping knife for poodles with wiry coats A stripping knife is one of the most common tools for grooming poodles. It has a straight blade and a handle at the rear that you can hold on to. You'll need to use it to reach the hard-to-reach parts of your dog's coat such as their behind, legs and underarms where there are a lot of hair. The tool is used to strip off excess hair that gets in the way of grooming and also helps remove dead skin cells. If you're not familiar with this kind of tool, it can be a bit tricky to use at first. You may not know how much pressure to apply when using it or how often you need to do it. But with practice and some patience, you'll learn how best use it for every type of coat that needs stripping. Often, mats cause discomfort and even pain when touched, so your dog will display some form of resistance to brushing or combing. Instead, trim off all remaining fur, then start fresh with a new growth cycle. As dogs age, they tend to get more sensitive and less tolerant of grooming. In this case, it may be best to shave their entire coat for comfort and safety reasons. This is also a good option for dogs who live in hot climates. Shaving tips for Labradoodle owners As a dog owner, you are probably aware of the fact that Labradoodle dogs need the right type of grooming. You will require to shave it on a regular basis. In this article, we will look at some expert tips which will help you shave your Labradoodle in an appropriate manner. Labradoodles have a coat which is pretty similar to that of poodles. If you have spent some time with doodles, you might be aware of the fact that they shed lesser than any other pooches. They are hypoallergenic as well. The coat is quite dense and has waves instead of curls. It is important for you to understand the fact that shaving this coat can lead to damage. Before you begin, it is important for you to ensure that you are getting the right type of clippers and scissors which can help you do the job in an appropriate manner. Never use electric clippers on your Doodle as it will lead to major shock and trauma for them. Even if your Doodle remains calm during the process, there are chances that he might be completely terrified throughout the entire ordeal. Electric clippers can also lead to skin irritations and burns as well. If there is no option left then make sure that water is applied. Shaving to combat shedding and grooming Labradoodles are low shedding dogs that often have wavy or curly fur. Though this fur type can help to trap shedding hairs, and stop them from falling around your house, Labradoodles need more grooming than the average dog. So, some owners naturally wonder if shaving all that fur off will be easier. Can You Shave a Labradoodle? Labradoodles are a popular modern mix that combines Labrador Retrievers with Standard Poodles. The resulting puppies can be quite varied. Some will have fur like their purebred parents — either straight double coats like the Lab, or very curly Poodle coats. And, others will have wavy fur that falls somewhere in between. Though Labradoodles are known as teddy bear dogs, there are tons of haircuts available for Doodles, just like their purebred Poodle parents. One popular option for purebred Poodles is to be partially shaved. So, many Labradoodle owners will consider the same option for their mixed breed dogs. Advocates of shaving claim that a shaved coat can help to keep your dog cool in hot summer months. Shaving certain body parts can also be functional. However, shaving fur too short does have some drawbacks that owners should learn about first. The appearance of a shaved Labradoodle will depend how short their fur has been cut and how much of their body has been shaved. In these cases, they will still often look quite Doodle-like. But, they may look a little more Labrador than Poodle! In other cases, owners choose to, or have to, shave their Labradoodle to the skin. They will have little to no fur on their bodies. Sometimes, owners will choose to shave only some areas of their Doodle, such as the face or feet. The purebred Poodle parent can have some interesting haircuts, like the Continental Cut. This involves shaving their face, throat, feet, hindquarters, and the base of the tail. This haircut is possible on Poodles because of their fur texture. So, a haircut like this will often not have the same striking, sculpted effect. Because the options vary so much, one shaved Labradoodle can look very different from the next. The fur type that your Labradoodle has can also play a part. For instance, whether they are hair type, fleece type, or wool type. Should I Shave My Labradoodle? When it comes to shaving your Labradoodle down to the skin, the answer is usually no. Most Labradoodles will not need to have their fur shaved so short. In fact, it can do more harm than good. They will no longer have a barrier to protect them against cuts and scrapes on walks, and will need some form of sun protection, like a dog-safe sunscreen. If your Labradoodle is more like its Lab parent, and has a double layered coat, shaving can impact the growth of their undercoat. Shaving advocates claim that shaving your Labradoodle can help to keep your dog cool in the summer. But, it can be dangerous for a shaved dog to go out in the sun, as they will be much more prone to sunburn. There are many other ways to help your dog stay cool in hot months, which we will look at a little later in this guide. When Shaving is Necessary Sometimes, professional groomers will have no other option but to completely shave a Labradoodle. Extreme matts and knots can be very painful for your dog, and are near impossible to brush out without causing a lot of pain. So, most groomers will have to shave the entire coat instead. How to Shave a Labradoodle Shaving a Labradoodle is usually a lot harder than it sounds. And, you may need to introduce your dog to the process gradually, from a young age, so they are comfortable with the sound that your clippers make. But, take care not to cut your dog, especially on sensitive areas like their paw pads and the webbing between their toes. Hair growth rates vary from one dog to another. But, generally, Labradoodle fur is fast growing. Once shaved, your Labradoodle will likely have fur all over their bodies once again in as little as 3 weeks. But, these rates will vary. Some dogs may take longer, and others might take even less! Most Labradoodles need their fur trimmed every two to three months. Will Shaving my Labradoodle Prevent Shedding? Despite popular belief, Labradoodles are not hypoallergenic dogs. Many Labradoodles are low shedding, but not all. This is because any loose hairs get trapped in the curls. Especially in hot months. Shaving can help to reduce shedding for a short period. And, if your Labradoodle has very curly fur, it can actually increase the amount of dander that sheds around your home, because there is no fur to catch the dander. It may help for a few days, but Labradoodle fur grows quickly, so the benefits will often not outweigh the cons in this case. Most owners will need to groom their Labradoodle multiple times per week to prevent knots and tangles. Shaving a Labradoodle would remove their fur, and so, would remove the need for grooming. So, though less time will be spent on grooming, you may need to spend more time and money fixing and preventing these other problems. Grooming is a huge part of owning a Labradoodle. But, if this is not an option for you, it may be better to consider an alternative breed with lower grooming needs, like the purebred Lab. Many groomers will recommend trimming it more frequently in those hotter months, but shaving a Labradoodle in the summer can actually just expose their skin to sun damage. Labradoodles, like all dogs, will pant to keep themselves cool. In the summer, make sure your dog has constant access to water and shade, particularly if they are outside. You could also choose to invest in a doggy pool. Heatstroke can be a real problem for dogs in the summer, so stick to the cooler times of day when exercising, such as early mornings or late evenings. Shaved Labradoodle — A Summary Most groomers will recommend a regular trim for your Labradoodle dog, and they will only fully shave them to the skin if it is absolutely necessary. Shaving a Labradoodle has pros and cons. It is easier to manage than longer fur, but can leave your dog prone to sunburn and other skin-related injuries. Have you had to shave your Labradoodle before? Do you prefer to shave certain parts of their bodies, like the feet and face? Let us know in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Conclusion What coat does a Labradoodle have? Labradoodles are a mix between a poodle and a labrador. Typically, there are 3 possibilities. The first is a haircoat or straight coat, much like a labrador. This hair-coat type tends to shed more and is not as hypoallergenic. You need to brush it just once every 2 weeks to get rid of any loose hairs and prevent shedding. Matting is usually not an issue with this coat type. Fleece Coat The second type is a fleece coat my personal favorite! They have wavy locks that are separated into loose curls. This often gives them an adorable teddy bear look. This hair is more hypoallergenic and sheds less than a straight coat. Wool Coat type The final type is a wool coat type, which closely resembles poodle fur. In this case, the entire coat has a sheep-like texture. This hair is often hypoallergenic but can mat easily. Therefore, these dogs with very curly hair need everyday grooming brushing to prevent mats and extra consideration of the grooming style. Evidently, Labradoodles come in a variety of fur types. Therefore, the decision to place your pooch on the grooming table is a personal one, dependent on its coat type and your free time. However, one common factor is that all doodles have a double coat. This means they have an inner, softer coat that serves to keep the dog dry and an outer, oilier coat that repels water. The outer coat, or the guard coat, also helps to repel dirt. Therefore, it helps the pup stay cleaner for longer. What do they look like shaved? What your doodle will look like shaved is greatly dependent on how much you shave off and the style you choose. If you shave close to the skin, your doodle might end up looking naked. This is because skin may be exposed when you cut past the undercoat. If you only shave the outer coat and leave the undercoat untouched, your dog will look entirely different! In this case, you will be able to see their labrador characteristics a little better, such as their strong nose, and athletic body. However, the soft undercoat layer will still remain. Finally, if you style their outer coat like in a teddy bear cut, lamb cut, or lion cut, the illusion created by their thick and wavy fur can help shape your doodle is something brand new! Should I Shave? To shave or not to shave? That is the question! First, we must consider what the fur does if we want to pick up the hair clippers. The most important feature of fur is its ability to insulate. So, in the hotter months, the coat traps the cool air around it, sort of like a thermos. This prevents your pooch from overheating. This clever system of insulation prevents heat strokes, which dogs are especially prone to. When is shaving necessary? This is where we must make an important distinction based on coat types. There are only some instances where curly-haired doodles can be shaved. If you shave your doodle with straight hair , this can cause sensitive skin. This can cause the skin to rub on itself severely, creating red, itchy patches. The simple answer is the difference in coat type. Poodles are not double coated; they have a single layer of fur which means that they can be shaved with little repercussions. Poodle fur is a lot like human hair. There is only one layer of very curly hair. When this hair falls out, it stays in the coat. This is one of the main reasons that Poodle grooming is so tedious. Poodles are very prone to matting; their loose hairs can easily bunch together and stay on the skin. So, owners will often take hair cutters and shave their Poodles close to the skin. Instead, it makes it very easy to groom them and manage their coat. On the other hand, Labradoodles have two layers of fur. So, shaving them can lead to all sorts of health complications, as mentioned above. This is why you should avoid shaving your hair-coated labradoodle at all costs. However, if your curly-haired labradoodle has severe matting that can not be removed with hair clippers or a brush, then you may be forced to shave parts of the fur off. In this case, try to loosen the mat out with a wide-toothed comb. Your goal is to gently! You may also use a detangling spray to help you. Once the mat is a few inches away from the skin, you can carefully place scissors in the mat and then open it up. Finally, when the mat is almost at the end of the fur, you can cut off the mat. This helps prevent it from becoming a huge infection later on. Reduced infections: Since your dog will dry faster, he is less likely to develop a skin infection that is often caused by bacteria growing on wet fur. By removing it, you expose its skin to increased UV radiation, which can cause irritation and skin cancer. Removing the fur can cause overheating, especially if you live in an area with over degree weather. Irritation Due To Friction: Without fur, bare skin rubbing together easily becomes red and inflamed. For example, the hair has lost its texture and is now a different color. While this has mainly anecdotal evidence, it is one of the most common complaints about shaving. The evidence shows that the consequences of shaving your doodle greatly outweigh the benefits. If you do decide to take a bit of fur off, we recommend not going under 1 inch. Keep around 1. You can use dog hair clippers with the largest attachment. Keep your movements light and topical. Conversely, you can also use scissors to trim off the excess. Labradoodle fur usually grows back to its maximum length in weeks. So, if you want a short style, you have to keep up the trimming every few months. How to keep your dog cool Now we know that shaving does not keep your dog cool in the summer months. So, how can we keep our puppies cool without harming them? Brush them frequently. Removing any loose hairs can prevent heat retention. Give your dog cold water. If their bowl is outside, place it in the shade. Provide treats like frozen bone broth, ice cubes, or frozen fruit. Temperatures rise fast in the summer, and your little errand can quickly turn lethal. How to Prevent Mats One of the main reasons that people shave is to prevent matting of the fur. However, there are many other ways to stop matting. The most important is to make sure that your dog is completely dry. While it is pretty adorable to see your dog run around and rub themselves on everything after their bath, this is a surefire way to create stubborn mats. After this is done, you can also brush out the fur to get rid of any loose hairs. You can also try an undercoat rake to quickly remove any stubborn dead hairs. Conclusion The debate on shaving Labradoodles is definitely a confusing one. However, we know that shaving your dog for the sake of heat protection is a big no-no. If you found this article illuminating or have any questions on this topic, please leave a comment down below. Thanks for reading! Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment.

We proudly offer champion English bulldog puppies for sale in St. Hands-on and selective, we ensure that all of our bloodlines are documented champion bulldogs with detailed family histories and a health guarantee. About English Bulldogs Known for being stout, demure, and dignified, English bulldogs are one of the best and most desirable breeds in the world. Despite their sour-mug expression, they are an amiable and sensitive breed. They are also tenacious and sweet-tempered, which allows them to respond well to patient and persistent training. This makes them excellent show champions, and of course, companions. About Our English Bulldog Puppies We live and breathe English bulldogs and are committed to the preservation of the true purebred dog, striving to breed to the standard that was established in .We give our hearts and souls to our dogs, giving each puppy the love and care they need to become happy and healthy dogs. Our thorough process is why we have been producing champions for the past 20 years. While our main focus in breeding English bulldogs is to find the next competitive show prospect, our bulldogs also make wonderful family pets that are sure to be well-loved members of your family. To learn more about our available champion English bulldog puppies , call Show Me Bulldogs at today. Connect With Us. They date back hundreds of years and are also known as British Bulldogs. They are a muscular, well-built dog with a wrinkled face and a pushed-in nose. This breed has won the hearts of generations of families for decades. They are considered to be one of the most popular dogs breeds in existence today. These fantastic puppies have gained popularity worldwide due to their playful, loyal, funny, and caring personality. They are laidback and tend to get along well with just about anyone or anything. They have very approachable demeanors and enjoy the companionship of their family. They also have a very easy-going personality which is one of the reasons they have remained a popular family dog. The English Bulldog does enjoy activity time and burning off energy, however, is not an overly energetic breed of dog. The correct ratio of meat-based protein and micronutrients, as well as healthy carbs and fats, will keep your dog feeling and looking his best. Most people recommend feeding this breed two meals each day, spaced about twelve hours apart. This will help to ensure the dog is provided with the proper nutrients he needs. It is also important to remember to provide your dog with proper dental care. It is suggested that his teeth get cleaned a minimum of three times a week. Failing to keep his teeth clean can contribute to health issues. Although properly cleaning his teeth will take some practice to get good at, in time, this will become easier for you and your pup. The English Bulldog grows to be between fourteen and fifteen inches tall. At maturity, the English Bulldog weighs between fifty and fifty-five pounds. The average life expectancy for this breed is between eight and ten years. English Bulldogs require regular bathing and grooming. It is suggested that they are bathed as frequently as every week up to no more than every four weeks depending on their activity level and lifestyle. This smooth coated breed does best with routine brushing which is essential to maintain healthy skin and a healthy coat. Frequently Asked Questions What are some of the health issues English bulldogs are likely to face? The English bulldog has various health issues with the most alarming being cardiac and respiratory complications. English bulldogs are also prone to dyslexia in the hip due to their relatively large body size. Skin infections are also a concern do to the wrinkly and folds nature of the skin. What is the lifespan of an English bulldog? The English bulldog can live up to years on an average scale. This is usually due to the numerous complications and health challenges the bulldog faces in the course of life. How frequently do English bulldogs shed? English bulldogs shed more frequently during the cold seasons like winter and spring. Compared to other dogs, they shed rather moderately and even lesser as they age. How hard is it to train an English bulldog? This breed of dog is known for its stubborn nature and can be really difficult especially for novice dog owners to get the hang of. Patience and routine should be the keywords when dealing with a bulldog. Are English bulldogs good watchdogs? The English bulldog has a natural instinct to protect its territory. Even though the bulldog is not usually much of a barking dog, in the case of an intruder it is well equipped and confident to take on the challenge at every cost. Are English Bulldogs dangerous to their owners? The English bulldog is not a dangerous pet. It is very much territorial and somewhat apprehensive to unfamiliar faces, but once it warms up to you, the bulldog is one of the most loving and loyal dogs. How much exercise do English Bulldogs need? The English bulldog on average needs about 30minuites of exercise every day to keep it mentally and physically healthy. Are English Bulldogs family dogs? The English bulldog may seem aggressive at first glance but you will get to find that they have a contrasting character to their appearance. They are perfect around children and can play all day. They are extremely lovable and friendly. How big do English Bulldogs get? English bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds and can grow as tall as 15inches. Male or female English Bulldog? This depends solely on the owner as both genders have their specific pros and cons. English bulldogs are very friendly and warm dogs and are amazing around children. No wonder they are one of the most sought-after breeds in the world. Are you interested in purchasing a English Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

For the complete list please see our German Shepherd Breeders close to you page. German Shepherds are one of the most popular breeds in America. When looking for a German Shepherd puppy, be sure to avoid pet stores and breeders who only offer puppies for sale online. Another option is to work with a breeder that offers health insurance for their puppies. This can help you avoid astronomical costs later on down the road, especially if you end up with an expensive breed of dog. This organization is dedicated to promoting and protecting the breed, and they only work with breeders who adhere to their high standards. The AKC maintains a list of reputable breeders who have met their rigorous standards and are committed to providing high-quality puppies. Do your research before buying a puppy, and be sure to ask lots of questions. Responsible breeders will be more than happy to answer all of your queries. This will allow you to see the puppies in their natural environment and meet their parents. It will also give you a chance to ask any questions you may have about the breed or the breeding process. You can also see the living conditions the puppies are kept in. When you visit a breeder, be sure to look for clean cages and plenty of human interaction. Grooming is also a good indication of how much care goes into raising these dogs, so be sure to check out the condition of their coats. High-quality German Shepherd breeders will always have a history of doing all they can to help their customers find the right puppy for their family situation. This will give you an idea of what your German Shepherd will look like when he or she grows up. Responsible breeders will only sell their puppies to families who are willing to commit to their welfare for the duration of their lives. Responsible breeders will be more than happy to provide you with the names and contact information of previous customers. Good breeders will have nothing to hide, so they should be more than willing to provide you with references. Be sure to contact the references and ask them about their experience working with the breeder. Were they happy with the puppy they purchased? Did the breeder follow up after the sale to make sure they were satisfied? How did their puppy turn out? Prior to making a purchase, ask for some pictures of the puppies with both parents. This will give you an idea of what kind of breeders they come from and how committed they are to excellent customer service. Insist on meeting the person who purchased your potential puppy and ask them about their experience with the breeder. Did they receive weekly updates after the purchase? Were all their questions answered during the purchasing process? Were they able to take home a healthy, happy puppy? Do they seem like someone you can trust? Are they knowledgeable about the breed and the breeding process? One of the best ways to judge a breeder is by their relationship with their veterinarian. These breeders will often produce puppies without regard for their health or well-being. Ask The Kentucky Breeder if Your German Shepherd Puppy Has Any Health Problems One of the biggest benefits of purchasing a puppy from a breeder is that you can rest assured that they have been health screened and are free from any genetic health problems. Be sure to ask the breeder about any health problems that may be common in the breed. They should be able to tell you about any genetic disorders that could potentially affect your puppy. This will make your life easier and ensure that their introduction to your family goes off without a hitch. Make sure there are no small objects or toys lying around, including things on shelves or in cabinets. With their powerful jaws, puppies can do some real damage if they get hold of something small and pointy. Put away all plants with berries that could potentially be deadly if eaten by a curious pup. Remove any string or wires that are visible. Secure any medications, cleaning supplies, alcohol, or anything else that may be harmful to a puppy. Create a designated space for your new pup, such as a crate or kennel. This will become their home base and a place where they can feel safe and secure. Set up a schedule for feeding, walking, and playing with your new puppy. Establishing these routines early on will help them develop good habits for the future. Bringing home a new German Shepherd puppy is an exciting experience for any family. Potty Training Your New German Shepherd Puppy Potty training your new pup is an incredibly important step in establishing a good relationship. Offer plenty of positive reinforcement for going potty in the right place. Have treats or other rewards on hand so that they associate certain behaviors with receiving something fun. Take them outside frequently, especially after meals and naps. Go to the same spot each time so they start to make the connection between going outside and doing their business. This will help them to understand that this is not acceptable behavior. By following these tips, you can potty train your new German Shepherd puppy quickly and easily. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Well socialized. Bred and raised on our farm for healthy parents with great temperament. Email xxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Health guarantee, immunizations up to date, 2 year hip dysplasia guarantee. Top of the line puppy. Stauffemberg German Shepherds. You can find us on google Buy Now Quality puppies This puppies have excellent conformation, powerful movement and correct anatomy. Character, temperament and drives are balanced and suitable for a variety of venus. Parents are Dm clear and the litter is expected to be dm clear by parentage. Pups from our previous litters are succeding in a variety of activities such as IPO, AKC performances, trucking and active family companions. Direct imported champion male. Son of Sunyi Vom Huhnegrab, IPO3 dog out of VA rated dam, has a gorgeous head, lovely expression and very dark eyes topped with excellent conformation and a calm , stable temperament. Her pedigree is outstanding as well. Buy Now West German Show line Outstanding pedigree from imports dogs, well socialized and started potty training. Health guarantee including hip dysplasia. Buy Now Liver and tan I have a 13 week old liver and tan German shepherd pup utd very smart beautiful female in Benton Ky. I own her mother and she is spittin image of her. Call xxx-xxx-xxxx I would put more photos but slow internet on farm Buy Now Full blooded German Shepard 5 months old one female left five months old had first and second shots. German Shepards are very good family perts and watch dogs. Buy Now Full Shepherd Pup! Full German Shepherd puppy!!! Puppy needs a new home asap Very small rehome fee to help cover cost of shots xxxxx. Need to rehome asap. Mother and father are pictured below. Need to find new homes for all 9 puppies. Delivery is negotiable. Asking or best offer. First and second shots are already done. Great with kids and other pets. Love being with people. Text or call xxx xxx xxx3 Buy Now puppies foe sale born march first. Buy Now puppies for sale born march 1st. Both parents are on site. More pictures upon request. Buy Now 8 week old babies Three babies left. They have been wormed and will have first set of shots. Partially house trained and extremely intelligent and loving. They are sweet, playful and love to snuggle when sleepy! Call for more information xxx-xxx-xxxx. He is very playful and very healthy! He is full blooded. Rare colors. Some Liver and tans. And some White masking Liver!!! Liver and tans, there are 2 males and 4 females. White masking Livers, there are 1 male and 3 females. Price listed is Without breeding rights!! Comes off the total price. Puppy pads Create a Schedule German Shepherd pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. Still, it would be best to prepare yourself for loud noises when your pet is asleep. Moderate Training German Shepherds are highly trainable. It simply means they respond well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. AKC proudly supports dedicated and responsible breeders. We came from here from the West coast , Washington state, moved to a huge 66 acre farm for the dogs to have lots of room to run. We are an ever growing family, I say this because you never know what is going to join our family next. We are very animal loving; it is just so fun to nurture them and watch them change as they grow up. If you ask both of my parents,they would tell you that I was always doctoring animals and wanting a new fur critter whenever I could talk them into it. Now as an adult with a family of my own, I have passed my love of animals to my children. My husband and I come from a background that is military and law enforcement based. This is where I found my love for the breed and began to learn about German Shepherds. While I was deployed in Iraq on my base there was a German shepherd K-9 handler assigned. I remember thinking it was the coolest thing in the world that he could say his partner was a dog. A German shepherd is such a smart and loyal animal. In my breeding, we strive to produce high quality puppies for all walks of life. Whether you are looking for a new family pet, working on the farm with herding or competing in competitive showing I offer it all. Our pups are family raised in my home right next to my children. I expose them to different size and age dogs, along with cats, and goats. Please feel free to take a look around our site and let us know if you have any questions, we would be happy to answer them. We love our fur children and we are sure you will fall in love with them too. Gary Collins. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Kentucky? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Kentucky cost? Kentucky German Shepherd puppies for sale are one of the smartest dog breeds around and are super easy to train. These dogs love mental stimulation and really appreciate the attention and human interaction that comes with learning new tricks and behaviors. What if my German Shepherd puppy is in another state? No problem! Our network of German Shepherd breeders in Kentucky and dog businesses are accustomed to working with buyers from all across the US. What are your standards for breeders? We assess breeders against strict standards for breeder background, health and wellbeing, animal care, housing facilities, and adoption process. Why should I choose a pup Uptown Puppies? But the sad fact is that the market is saturated with shady characters who think nothing of using puppies to make a quick buck. Our philosophy is clear; we develop deep personal connections with our breeder network to ensure that only the best breeders in Kentucky make it onto our site. What are backyard breeders? Backyard breeders are unskilled, uncertified breeders who may even lack the proper licensing. Often, these are well intentioned people who love their animals but the fact is that without the proper skills, experience, and resources, German Shepherd for sale in Kentucky from backyard breeders often develop problematic behaviors and serious medical conditions. I have specific requirements for my pup? Can you help? Our network of breeders and dog businesses usually has listings for nearly every combination of traits like gender, coat color, or mix. Check out our listings now to find your perfect new puppy. How does this all work? The process is actually really simple. Begin by browsing our listings of available German Shepherd puppies for sale in Kentucky where you can reserve your dog or ask your breeder any important questions. Finally, just pick up your German Shepherd for sale Kentucky from the breeder or airport and live happily ever after. What makes Uptown Puppies different from other dog sites? Most other dog sites out there are happy to accept listings from any old breeder with little to no oversight. By vetting all the companies and Kentucky German Shepherd breeders who join our network, we make sure that your hard earned cash only supports the best and most ethical breeders in Kentucky. What are the origins of German Shepherd Dogs? German Shepherd puppies in Kentucky are the descendents of a widely-distributed variety of European shepherd dog which ultimately gave rise to several modern breeds. Are German Shepherds friendly? German Shepherds for sale in Kentucky are remarkably friendly and loving - even tender - dogs who form strong bonds with their families and people they know. Exercise Grooming In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Healthy German Shepherds live for as long as between nine to thirteen years, however, some german shepherd has lived much longer than Thirteen years. How fast can German Shepherds run? An adult German Shepherd can run approximately 30miles per hour. Originally the German Shepherd was bred for guarding and herding of flocks. The German Shepherd dog is highly intelligent and a fairly quick learner and that is why Police and Military institutions use them in operations. How do I care for a German Shepherd dog? The German Shepherd sheds lightly all through the year so be sure to brush it at least twice weekly. Bathe it after each shedding season. Brush its teeth at least once a month. Feed with healthy meals. Routine exercise of at least 45 minutes each day is crucial to the existence of a German Shepherd. Do they shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherds sheds heavily all year round and blows the thick, dense fur under its harsh topcoat twice a year. Are German Shepherds good with kids? German Shepherds are good with kids, however, they can become very protective because of this adult supervisor is highly recommended. At what age are German Shepherds fully grown? In moderation German Shepherds, reach full maturity between months i. There have been known cases of some Eastern European lines taking up to 3years i. Why do German shepherd ears stand up? During the early puppy age weeks German shepherds have floppy ears but this usually becomes pointed ears, standing up due to the cartilage in the ear becoming hard and strong thereby making the ears stand permanently. Are male or female German shepherd more affectionate? The female may also be less tolerable than the male when it comes to playing with children. Are you interested in purchasing a German Shepherd? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Facebook Twitter Instagram Pinterest Roughhousing is part of the fun of being a dog. Playing is a way for dogs to explore their world and to socialize with other animals and people. It is completely normal, safe, and healthy in most cases, but it can become dangerous if it goes too far. Dogs may play-bite, lunge, swipe, and even bark at you or other dogs during play, but it will normally be done in a gentle, friendly manner. However, playful activities can take a turn for the worse if the dog begins to bite or play in a way that harms people or other animals. Here are some tips about how to prevent rough play. Discourage rough behavior Sometimes people can influence dogs to behave in a rough manner, especially if they themselves are using their hands, arms, or legs while playing with the dog. It is recommended that you behave in a gentle manner with your dog and use toys to play with them instead of your body. Some of this behavior is learned from other dogs that play roughly in general or from dogs that are larger than your dog. If you notice that this behavior may be influenced by another person or dog, then cease the activity between the two parties. Also, always make it clear that you own all of the toys, and you decide when and which ones your puppy can play with, only keeping one or two toys out at a time. If a dog has too many toys, it may begin to hoard them in a safe place in order to feel more powerful. Let the dog cool off Playing can often make dogs feel slightly stressed, especially after a rough encounter. One of the best things to do is let the dog cool off with a brief time out of at least five to ten minutes. A firm command to sit or lie down in their bed will cause them to relieve some of the tension and regroup. Spay or neuter your dog For dogs, playing is primarily about exerting dominance over another dog, toy, or person. Spaying or neutering your dog can help reduce some of these impulses, make them more docile, and easier to manage. This may be something to consider if your dog has a history of showing a lot of aggression toward people or animals. Stop incidents before they start It can be difficult at times to distinguish play from a violent encounter, but one of the best ways to stop it is break them up before they start. Dogs will usually seem to be a in a jovial mood during play and they may lean forward, growl, or even a bark a little bit. The situation can spiral out of control if the dogs start to expose their teeth, use a low pitched growl, or yelp when they are bitten. Pay close attention if a small and a large dog are playing together because the smaller dog could potentially get hurt even if they are playing. Playing is a healthy part of socialization for dogs and it is definitely something to be encouraged. On the other hand, rough play can be dangerous for you and your dog because it can lead to bites or other injuries to yourself or another pet. If the situation is getting too intense, then it is best to remove the dog for a time-out session. Dog Training By Erin Jones 21 min read September 1, K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Play is a great way for your dog to unwind, and it can be a great social activity you both can enjoy. Playing with your pupper can also help the two of you bond. This might be a game of fetch, it could be playing tug, or even some games that require a little more mental stimulation, like hide-and-seek or other brain games. But what happens when play becomes too rough? Some dogs can be quite mouthy, and arousal levels can rise during a play session. I once worked with a 1-year old Cane Corso who was very mouthy and jumpy, and he became carried away quite easily. Suffice to say, it was incredibly unpleasant to have pounds of mouthy dog trying to roughhouse with me! Do They Like Playing Rough? When dogs play, they often mimic certain fighting behaviors, such as mouthing, biting, vocalizing, jumping and tackling. However, there are two main differences between playing and fighting: Playing involves meta-signals. Meta-signals are body cues dogs use to tell their play partner that everything that just happened, and everything that is about to happen, is all in fun. These include the play bow bum in the air and elbows on the floor , turning her bum towards her play partner, bouncy movements, relaxed and open jaw. The behaviors that mimic fighting biting, mouthing, jumping, vocalizing are inhibited. Sometimes they even give their partner the advantage by self-handicapping. This might be laying on her back or allowing another dog to catch her in a game of chase. Dogs sometimes play quite rough with each other, and this type of dog play is appropriate and normal. Dogs are social animals, and play is a big part of being social and learning the skills they need in order to interact in an appropriate way. Play also helps puppies develop into socially appropriate adults, develop motor skills, and ensure proper brain development. Play also serves as a form of exercise, and it is likely quite enjoyable. It is also important to have human-dog play interaction. This kind of play will help your dog to bond with you and learn what behaviors are appropriate when playing with human friends in general. This is particularly common with new puppies, as they are still learning what is appropriate, how to read social cues and how to inhibit their biting and mouthing. Aggression and play rarely go hand-in-hand. Aggression is generally due to conflict or is a response to fear or anxiety. However, play can get overly rough as arousal levels increase leading to aggressive responses, which is obviously not ideal. These are subtle signs of stress that dogs use to communicate. Stress can escalate quickly and may lead to an aggressive reaction or bite. When a dog becomes overwhelmed with fear or stress, or her warnings are ignored, she may then growl , snap, or even bite the perceived threat or aggressor. Stiff body. When a dog is playing and relaxed, she will be wiggly throughout her body. But if a dog is uncertain or nervous, her body may become stiff, you may see her hackles come up a behavior that is technically called piloerection , or they may start to move in slow motion. Hard stare. Staring is a direct threat. I rarely look at dogs in the eyes for more than seconds without moving my gaze away momentarily. If your dog is giving you or another animal a hard stare, if she crouches and begins to move in a stalking position with her body low, moving slowly and stealthily, it is often a sign of an impending chase and possible bite. Growling can be a normal part of play, but out of context or in the absence of meta-signals, it can be a warning to back off. If not, she may bite without any obvious warning at all. Guarding toys. Some dogs are anxious about having valued items taken from them. This could be food, beds, or even toys. If your dog is aggressively guarding her toys , playing tug or taking a toy from her could end in a bite and will make her anxiety worse over time. Graphic from DVM .Also, use care to watch for normal play behaviors, such as mouthing, jumping, and biting, which may transform into inappropriate pay very quickly. My own puppy, a 7 month-old terrier cross named Juno, can easily become way too overstimulated. She has trouble with her impulse control when it comes to nipping and mouthing. My answer to these kinds of questions is almost always: It depends! I suggest avoiding roughhousing with young puppies altogether as it teaches them that biting and mouthing us is OK. If we never roughhouse and we are always showing her more acceptable ways to interact with us and we will set them up for success. However, a bit of rough play may be OK for some older dogs. For example, Juno would love it if I played rough with her, but she would get carried away too quickly. So, we stick to games of tug, fetch, hide-and-seek, and even chase. Really any games that I can retain some control and that do not involve my hands. On the other hand, my old dog Stewie, a laid-back Pitbull, really enjoyed playing rough. He had excellent bite inhibition and would stop as soon as he was given the cue that we were all done with the game. It just may never be prudent to allow Juno to play in this kind of rough manner. There are some great books and DVDs available for teaching and playing games with your dog. How do we know if it is play or something else? Ask yourself: Is it only happening when your dog is happy and excited or wanting to play? How gentle is she? Mouthing could be happening for a different reason than play. For example, perhaps mouthing happens when she is feeling anxious. Or, is she mouthing people when they move around the house this is especially common among herding breeds. If she is placing her teeth on you with some pressure, she could be giving you a warning about something that makes her uncomfortable. You will need to look at the context of the behavior. What is happening before this happens and right after? If she is trying to play while mouthing you, you can make a pretty fair assumption that the behavior is related to rough play. I prefer my dogs to never mouth me, no matter how gentle they are using their teeth. I then redirect her to something appropriate. After being consistent with this process, Juno now automatically goes and finds a toy as soon as she feels the urge to tug on my fingers. The answer to this one is a definite nope! There is absolutely no scientific evidence that dogs act out of spite. Play biting starts because it is a normal instinctive behavior for all puppies. Every single puppy explores their world with their mouths. We need to teach our puppies alternatives to biting. If we give them the attention they are seeking when our puppies bite, we are reinforcing that behavior. For many dogs, this includes negative interaction as well as giving in to play. It could be as little as making eye contact, saying no, and certainly pushing them or moving them with your hands. What Is Dog Aggression Biting? If you have a dog who bites for any of these reasons, it is advisable to contact a professional fear-free based behavior consultant or trainer to help you to deal with the root cause of this behavior. Ideally, you should always start teaching your dog appropriate manners while she is young. The more something mouthing, biting, rough play is practiced, the better she will be at it. It also means it may take a little longer to change her behavior than a puppy. Another common mistake is inadvertently or intentionally rewarding rough play. However, there are a few strategies you can implement to address inappropriately rough play: What should you do when your dog plays too roughly? Stop interacting with your dog when she is trying to jump on you, bite or mouth you. This might be physically turning away, crossing arms, and not saying anything. You want to be as utterly boring as possible. It might mean removing yourself from the room or blocking yourself off from your puppy using gates or pens. If you are playing with your puppy and you can see her arousal levels begin to escalate, remove yourself or give her something else to do before she gets too carried away. If she is expected to keep herself entertained, she needs something to do. Have some puzzle toys, stuffed Kongs, interactive toys and chew items on hand. This could be redirecting her attention to a toy, a chew item, or other appropriate item she is allowed to play with and chew. This is ideal for those situations where you missed your prevention window, or she is too riled up for you to ignore her completely. Give your doggo an alternative behavior to do instead of biting and mouthing. When Juno starts to get too excited and wanting to play with me, I have her settle on her mat. She gets rewarded for this behavior with her favorite treats. Not only can she not jump all over me when she is lying down, but she is earning treats and learning to be calm when she feels overwhelmingly excited. The bonus is, she now defaults to this behavior when she feels excited and she begins to calm herself down automatically. Be consistent. Make sure that you always follow a predictable outcome. If biting starts, play stops immediately. What should you avoid doing if your dog plays too roughly? Often when I say this to a client, they immediately tell me that they would never use punishment. It is important to train yourself to react appropriately too. Technically, punishment is anything that your puppers finds unpleasant enough to stop an unwanted behavior. For some dogs, this is as simple as raising your voice. Generally, when this happens, people begin to increase the intensity of the punishment provided. This may mean raising their voice or pinning the dog down for longer periods of time, or tapping the pup on the nose with a little more force than before. I think you see where I am going with this. At worse, punishment can actually cause emotional damage. This may cause your dog to become frightened of you, and it may weaken your bond too. No one wants this to happen. What is too rough for some dogs may not be too rough for others. Dogs have different play styles, so find a game that works best for your dog. Knowing how rough is too rough may depend on the size and exuberance of your individual dog. It may also depend on your lifestyle. If you have children, you may want to be considerate of how your pup may try to play with your kids and what would be too rough for little humans. If biting becomes relentless, excessive, or painful, if mouthing happens in order to solicit your attention, if you are not able to stop the play at any point, then it is advisable to avoid any rough play. Instead, try to follow some of the tips suggested above. To do this: Stop play completely if it becomes too rough. Avoid playing rough with your pooch in the first place if you know she tends to get carried away. Make these cues a whole lot more exciting than the play itself. For some dogs, like Juno, this is easy. She is highly food motivated. So as soon as she hears either of those two cues, she immediately complies because she knows I will pay her with cheese or dehydrated liver treats. Try some other types of training games with your dog instead! Children are much more likely than adults to be bitten by a dog. A recent study showed that children under the age of 5 were most susceptible to bites, and the majority of these bites are inflicted by familiar dogs. Children are not as good at reading the body language of dogs as adults, which can lead to dangerous interactions and unheeded warnings. Children often play too rough with pets, and they can annoy, irritate, startle, or injure dogs. Accordingly, no child should ever be left unsupervised with a dog , no matter how tolerant and well-behaved the doggo is. Statistically, the majority of dog bites to children occur to their face, and the results can be quite damaging. The younger the child, the more likely they will require hospitalization. I have worked with a lot of clients who have decided to get a new puppy when their children are young. But while common, this is not something to undertake lightly. Puppies are notoriously rough when they play. Their teeth and nails are sharp, and it can be quite upsetting for young children. Children are also likely to cry, scream, and run when this happens, which can inadvertently frighten your pooch, or reinforce her desire to play roughly. So, it is always important to supervise puppies and children. In fact, instead of having your toddler play with your puppy, you should try to teach your puppy to earn rewards when your child is nearby by. This may involve teaching her to chill out on her mat or in a pen when your toddler approaches. Children love to climb, pull fur and tails, poke and prod. This can be really unsettling for your dog, and it may cause her to react in a less-than-desirable way. So, be sure to teach your children how to appropriately interact with your dog. Unfortunately, puppies often bite at the faces of children during play. If your puppy is guilty of face-nipping behavior, try to teach her an alternative appropriate behavior. For example, teaching her to sit, lie down, or go to her bed are excellent alternatives to rough play behavior. Otherwise, prevent the rough play interaction by using pens for either your puppy or for your child or both. What About Puppies? Puppies are new at this play thing, and biting is a huge part of puppy play. So, it usually takes them a while to learn how to behave appropriately. The age and rate that dogs learn to inhibit their bite is largely based on their individual personality, how motivated they are to play, and how consistent you are with your training. As puppies learn what is acceptable, you may be able to integrate more rough and tumble types of play. Some dogs become more or less vocal as they age. Some cautious puppies become more confident with time. Some confident puppies learn better manners. But in all cases, they will hopefully begin using their mouth less and showing greater impulse control. Puppies love faces. They love to bite beards and noses. It might be cute when they are 5 lbs and have that wonderful puppy breath. But as they get bigger, this will no longer be fun. Stand up, turn away, and redirect. They may also vocalize while playing. This is all completely normal. The more a behavior is reinforced the more your dog will do that behavior in the future. In fact, they will get faster, better, and stronger at the behavior too. What precedes it? What happens when she bites you? What is your reaction? What are you doing to prevent it? What would you rather her to? How will you work to achieve the desired outcome? If your puppy is biting outside of a playtime scenario, it is important to understand the root cause of her aggression. And for most owners — particularly first-time owners — the best way to do so is by soliciting the services of a professional canine behavior consultant. A dog behavior consultant can not only help you figure out why this is happening, but they can also create a specific behavior modification plan to help her. Just be sure to avoid punishing her in the meantime, as this will likely exacerbate the problem. Dogs are individuals. Even puppies within the same litter may have a variety of personalities and play styles. But there are some breed traits that may predispose your puppy to either a rough or more gentle style of play. For example: Labradors, goldens, and other types of retrievers are usually high energy pups that are very wiggly. They can easily get carried away when playing. Though usually very gentle, pitbull-type dogs are strong, and they tend to use their paws a lot when playing. They can easily topple adults like yours truly! Shih Tzus and Bichon Frises are generally much gentler and may prefer cuddles or brain games over rough and tumble. So, they rarely become terribly rough when playing. Herding breeds can have high energy levels, but when they have appropriate direction and mental stimulation, are usually not super rough players. They can be mouthy, however. Terriers and Spaniels are high energy breeds, who tend to be jumpy and excitable. They also have a strong prey drive, so games of chase or fetch can cause them to become over-aroused. It can help you build a strong bond with your dog, and it teaches them some important skills. What are your favorite ways to play rough with your pup? Let us know in the comments below. Like it? Share it! Print Retrievers, for the most part, make great family dogs. They are also smart, so they learn quickly and their strong willingness to please often makes retrievers a great addition to the family. But some retriever puppies are a high-energy ball of fire, one that is difficult to train or even handle in daily life. And sometimes there will be signs of aggressive behavior that are concerning. However, there is a fine line between puppy play behavior and hyper and aggressive behavior. Some owners are reluctant to stop such behavior thinking that it is just puppy behavior and therefore the dog will outgrow it. If you have a retriever puppy that is hyper or aggressive you might wonder what can be done and why they are acting that way. Here is some guidance on this topic. What are normal puppy behaviors? It is normal for very young puppies to nip at your hands and your feet. It is also normal for them to chew on things, jump on you and walk all over you. An 8-week-old puppy nipping at your hand might at first seem cute and sweet. But one bite from those exceedingly sharp puppy teeth and you might decide its not so cute. Those teeth can puncture your skin in a second and draw blood just as quickly. So, while it may be normal for a puppy to nip at your hand or foot, it is not a behavior that you want to ignore. Puppy play is naturally aggressive When puppies playing with their litter mates, the play can be very aggressive. This is natural, as dogs, they are always figuring out their pack and where they fit into the pack. Recognizing puppy play You can recognize when a retriever puppy is playing by the stance they take. They also may run around in circles, growling, or barking in high pitched barks, but when they do this their ears will be up, their tail wagging and they do not look threatening. It is uncommon for puppies under 12 weeks of age to exhibit true aggression. True aggression involves a dog exhibiting prolonged growling with a stiff posture and baring of teeth. Their hackles the hair on their back will be raised and they will be poised in a threatening position with ears back. If you were to approach a dog in this position which I do not recommend they will often move toward you and try to bite or snap at you. This type of aggression is something to be fearful about and is not healthy. Isolate the dog as much as possible and consult a veterinary or other professional for help or advice. What are signs of aggression in puppies All puppies can act aggressively, but if you take steps to address the aggressive behaviors while your dog is a young puppy, you can make a huge difference on how or whether that aggression progresses. These are all forms of aggression and none of them should be tolerated, not as a puppy and certainly not as a dog. There are also dominance behaviors that puppies exhibit that are often mistaken as aggression. They include things like jumping on people, stepping on people, pushing you around, forcing you to pet them and others. While these behaviors can be done aggressively, and should still be corrected immediately, they are not the same as aggression. Definition of puppy Because we often get clients that bring out their dogs that are close to a year old and refer to them as puppies, I want to define what I consider a puppy. A puppy is a dog under six months of age. Most retrievers are a good size by around six months. They will often continue to grow up until about a year and a half, but they have the bulk of their size by the time they are six months. And by six months, you need to have a handle on any aggressive behaviors, or you are going to struggle with eliminating them. Is it normal for a puppy to be very aggressive? It is normal for a puppy to test you with aggressive behaviors. And to be clear, that place should be at the bottom of the pack, under all your family members. I understand that your dog is a part of your family but allowing your dog to be in a position above any or all your family members is just asking for trouble. Treating your dog as a human and attributing your dog with human thoughts and reasoning is not fair to your dog or to your family. Love your dog, but make sure your dog is the lowest member of your pack and you will have a much easier time with obedience and basic good behavior. How to stop puppy growling Growling is often the first step for dog aggression. Or, if you try and take a toy away from your dog. No matter how or when you see the aggression start, it is important to nip it in the bud right away. A sharp NO command sometimes is all that is needed, especially if it is well-timed with the first sign of the growl or nip. Other times you may need to grab your dogs muzzle and squeeze. If these corrections do not seem to be helping, I would immediately crate my dog if it growled at me. Be sure you do not let your dog out of the crate while he is exhibiting a growling behavior. Only let him out if he is behaving appropriately. How to stop puppy nipping or biting A dog that nips or bites you often started as a very young puppy. We teach our puppies at 8-weeks-old that biting and nipping people is not allowed. And at this very young age, they learn it very quickly. Your pup may cry out or squirm, but that is fine. In fact, you need to be quite stern to make an impression. If it continues, you are not being firm or consistent enough. How to stop puppy growling while tugging During play, it is not uncommon for retriever puppies to growl and tug at toys, blankets, even your pant leg. This behavior is usually just playful and natural. However, I would still try to end this behavior as soon as possible. While almost harmless at first, this behavior can escalate quickly as your dog grows bigger and stronger. You can end this behavior first by not participating in it. If you start tugging with a toy with your puppy, you are going to encourage the behavior. The second step is to discourage the behavior with a sharp NO command. It can help if you say GIVE when you take the item. This will start to teach him the GIVE command that will be helpful later if you are a hunter. How to stop puppy baring his teeth A puppy or dog that bares his teeth to you is threatening to bite you. Even if the puppy goes no further than to bare the teeth and growl, you need to end this behavior. This behavior is far more dangerous than the puppy that nips at your hand. The nips may be done in play, since that is how puppies play with one another, but baring of teeth and growling is different. And you must handle it differently. I am not talking about lifting your dog off the floor with the shake, but if your puppy is very young, that may indeed be a great correction. Have you ever witnessed a mama dog correct her puppies? This is not a violent thing, just a natural correction for a puppy. The puppies rarely cry out or whimper when given this correction, they just walk away and understand that the behavior they were exhibiting is not acceptable. If your dog continues to bare his teeth even after this correction, you may have a bigger problem on your hands, and I would proceed carefully. True dog aggression is no joking matter. Dogs with aggression problems can snap at any time and go from baring their teeth to full out attacks. Hyper behavior is different from aggression. A hyper dog has a lot of energy and may not know how to control or channel that energy. Often hyper behavior is a genetic trait. In this sense, it is not something that you can eliminate. But you can take steps to make it more manageable. Exercise more Dogs that are hyper need more exercise than dogs that are more docile in nature. If your dog is hyper and is not getting enough exercise, the hype behavior is going to drive the dog to other behaviors that you may not enjoy such as chewing up your dining room table leg or your favorite pair of shoes. For instance, if your dog is hyper and is jumping up and down all the time, and you not only allow the jumping but pet him or her and give praise while your dog is jumping, then you are unknowingly rewarding the jumping behavior. Give your puppy time to mature Retrievers are often full of energy while they are young, well some a bit longer, but tend to slow down as they mature. But as they mature they do usually slow down and become a bit less energetic. Training Highly energetic dogs can benefit greatly from structured training programs. Programs such as the ones we offer here at Otter Tail Kennels, can teach an energetic dog control and channel their energy into hunting or retrieving which can make home life more manageable. There are even some things you can do at home to get more control of your energetic dog. Practice sitting I know this sounds boring, and for you it is. But for an energetic dog that does not like sitting at all, having them sit for 30 seconds, or a minute or two can be very challenging. They will need many reminders at first, but over time they will learn to settle and sit calmly. You can slowly increase the amount of time. This simple obedience drill will help your dog learn control. Teach your dog the kennel command so that when you say Kennel, they run into their crate and stay there until you release them. This basically sends your dog on a time out and forces them to practice control and settle. Final thoughts on why my puppy is so hyper and aggressive For dogs under 6 months of age, much hyper and aggressive behavior is simply puppy play. You must teach your puppy boundaries and the earlier you teach them the better. Be consistent in your corrections and persistent, and over time you will reap the benefits. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. Email Your pet wants you to read our newsletter. Then give them a treat. Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. I'm In See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights. As animal behavior researchers, we have been studying dog play for more than 10 years. Together with our colleagues, we have analyzed hundreds of hours of data to test hypotheses about play. We present our results at animal behavior conferences and publish in scientific journals. What is dog play fighting? For example, during play, one dog might chase and tackle another, or use a neck bite to force a partner to the ground. Dogs will also hip check or slam, mount, rear up, bite, stand over, sit on, bark, snarl, growl, bare their teeth, and do chin-overs i. However, despite the overlap in behaviors, some clear differences exist between dog play fighting and real fighting. When dogs are playing, they inhibit the force of their bites and sometimes voluntarily give their partner a competitive advantage self-handicap by, for example, rolling on their backs or letting themselves be caught during a chase — behaviors that would never happen during real fighting. In addition to inhibited bites and self handicapping, dogs clearly demarcate play by employing signals, such as play bows i. Anthropologist Gregory Bateson called play signals meta-communication, meaning communication about communication. Humans employ meta-communication a lot. Similarly, dogs play bow to invite play and to convey playful intentions during play. Marc Bekoff, while at the University of Colorado, did a study showing that dogs are most likely to play bow just before or immediately after performing an especially assertive behavior, such as a bite accompanied by a head shake. Meta-communication allows humans and dogs to pretend — that is, to perform actions that appear to be one thing but actually mean something completely different. To people unfamiliar with the notion that some nonhuman animals have this ability, play that includes archetypal aggressive behaviors, like snarling and growling, can be quite confusing. Close attention to the context, however, can help us differentiate between play aggression and real aggression. Even though play fighting is very different from real fighting, people often feel the need to intervene. Sometimes it is obvious at the beginning of a bout that two dogs are playing, but once the dogs start growling or their arousal intensifies, observers may no longer be sure that the dogs are still playing. After all, humans instinctively avoid a dog who is snarling or baring his teeth , and it is natural to think that our dogs should do the same. But what if this assumption is mistaken? Our research shows that for many dogs, play fighting is the primary method used to negotiate new relationships and develop lasting friendships. Although play is fun, it also offers serious opportunities to communicate with another dog. In this sense, play is a kind of language. Most importantly, how can we tell the difference? Related article Remember, dogs have more than one emotion. How to Tell if a Dog is Playing or Fighting First, we need to determine whether both dogs are enjoying themselves and want to continue playing. Look at their postures and facial expressions. Watch for play signals, which can often be quite subtle — a quick dip or bounce rather than a full-blown play bow. If they pull against your grip in an attempt to interact with the other dog, release them. An interaction like the one just described is straightforward and easy to read. However, what about instances that may not be so clear-cut? We encourage you to discard any preconceived notions about what dog play should and should not look like — at least for the time being. Appropriate dog play fighting all depends on the individual dogs and the kind of relationship they have with one another. He would pin Sam with a neck bite every few seconds. No sooner would Sam stand up than Sage would neck bite him and flip him on his back again. At first, we thought that Sage might be too rough for Sam, so we would intervene by holding one or both of them back. However, each time, Sam would try his hardest to get to Sage, despite the inevitable pinning. As Sam grew larger, eventually matching Sage in weight, Sage added body slams and mounting to their play. With the exception of frequent rear-ups in which they adopted identical roles, facing one another and boxing with their front paws , Sage usually maintained the more assertive role neck biting, pinning, slamming and so forth. Yet, because Sam was always an enthusiastic partner, we let them continue to play together. Related article My Dog Is Misbehaving. What Should I Do? With Sage and Sam, allowing play to continue was the right decision. Their early play interactions burgeoned into a lifelong friendship. Even today, the two middle-aged boys will sometimes play together for five hours at a stretch, stopping only occasionally for brief rests. When they are finally done, they often lie together, completely relaxed, with their bodies touching. Their faces are loose and smiling, and they seem almost drunk in an endorphin-induced haze. This relationship shows that play does not necessarily have to be fair or balanced in order for two dogs to want to play with one another. Scientists thought that if one dog was too rough or forceful e. Until our research, this proposition was never empirically tested. Over a year period, we studied pairwise play between adult dogs, between adult dogs and adolescents , and between puppy littermates. Dogs do not need to take turns being assertive in order for play to take place. When they played, they snarled a lot, lips curled and teeth exposed. The snarls looked fierce, but they often preceded silly behaviors, like flopping on the ground. Then, as though on cue, Safi and Osa would put their scary faces back on, almost as if they were Halloween masks, and turn toward one another. Their expressions were so exaggerated and obviously fake that they always made us laugh. Some dogs can even be trained to show a snarl on command in a context that is otherwise perfectly friendly. These observations show that dogs can exhibit nasty faces voluntarily, just as we do when we are only pretending to be mean. Growling , like snarling , is a seemingly aggressive behavior that means something different during play than it does in other contexts. We have often videotaped play between another female Shepherd, Zelda, and a male mixed-breed, Bentley. When watching these videos, we noticed that, following brief pauses in play, Zelda often stared at Bentley and growled fiercely. Whenever she did this, Bentley leaped toward her and the chase was on. Bentley moved toward rather than away from Zelda because he knew her growl was not real. This phenomenon was also noted by other researchers, who recorded growls from dogs in three different contexts, including play. Play growls have different acoustical properties than growls given as threats, and when researchers played the growls back, dogs distinguished between play growls and growls given in agonistic i. Related article Decoding the many sounds your pup makes. Playing Surprisingly Peacefully Surprisingly, in some of the relationships we studied, dogs initiated play and preferred to play with others who were consistently assertive with them. For example, in a litter of mixed breed puppies, one female, Pink, initiated play with a female littermate, Blue, more than twice as often as she initiated play with any of her other littermates including another sister , even though Blue adopted the assertive role during play percent of the time. Similarly, in our study of adult dogs, when the female German Shepherd, Safi, was playing, she was virtually always in the top-dog role. Sometimes people interrupt these interactions because they fear that rough play will escalate into an all-out dogfight. However, in hundreds of hours of observations of play fighting between two dogs with established relationships, we have never witnessed a single escalation to real fighting. One of the authors hosted six to eight neighborhood dogs in her backyard every day for nine years, including two female German Shepherds, a male Husky, a male Husky mix, and three mixed-breeds. Other scientists report similar findings. If this were the case, the dogs mentioned in this article did a great deal of practicing for fights that never occurred. All of these benefits, if real, are important to our dogs. Although we recommend carefully monitoring play between dogs who are significantly different in size or age, or who do not know each other well, our studies have shown that dogs are very good at figuring out which dogs they want to play with and how to play well with their friends. Presumably, dogs are better than humans at speaking and understanding dog language. Perhaps it is time to humble ourselves and listen to them. When we talk about play fighting, we mean play between two dogs rather than play between many dogs. We recommend caution with young, inexperienced puppies. If traumatized by other dogs early on for example, in a poorly run puppy class , a puppy may grow into a dog who is fearful , defensive, or even aggressive with other dogs. Rough dog play fighting typically works best between two dogs who are friends. Finally, work with your dog until they reliably come when you call them for a brief play pause. Related articles.

Teach an alternative behavior like "lick" or "kisses" Alright, let's dive into each tip below. Exercising a puppy is one of the best ways to help alleviate problem behaviors like biting. Again, how much exercise your puppy needs will be largely dependent on their breed and age. A general rule of thumb is that a puppy can have 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. So a 4-month-old puppy can exercise for 20 minutes twice a day. The more energy your pup uses, the better! Exercise can also take the form of , just be careful not to overrun your pup. Excessive exercise can cause joint problems in the long run. There are a host of options to help you overcome this issue so you can still effectively get rid of their energy. Consider getting a flirt pole. Flirt poles are a fantastic option because they allow you to play very energetic and fun games of chase, without worrying about getting your hands nipped at. You can get one here. Another option is to teach your pup a structured game of fetch. Fetch is great because it exercises dogs both physically and mentally. Zak George lays out how to teach your dog to fetch in our free online training class, 30 Day Perfect Pup. You can sign up here. Remember, many dogs can have been bred for hundreds of years to have high levels of energy. Be sure to give your pup an outlet with exercise to help stop that puppy biting! Don't miss out! That is the perfect time to engage them mentally with a quick training session! Not only does it deter them from biting, but it gives you an opportunity to reward them for positive behavior. In its simplest form, the leave it behavior is all about restraint. A dog that can restrain from lunging and grabbing a treat on the ground, is much more likely to be able to leave your hand alone when you ask. Step 2: Show your pup a treat and then close your hand so your pup cannot access it. Your pup will likely try to get to the treat by licking, biting hopefully not , or pawing at your hand where the treat is. Step 3: Practice that behavior multiple times until your pup starts to generalize the concept. The next step after that would be to try putting a treat on the ground and telling your pup to leave it. Step 5: Practice, practice, and then keep practicing. If your pup starts biting into your skin, give the leave it command, and reward when they stop. Practice makes perfect! For example, as you teach your pup the sit behavior you can help them understand yes and no. Over time trust me, it takes time , your pup will better start to understand the difference between yes and no. My wife and I raised two Yellow Labs that are about 7 months apart. And they were the first puppies we had raised as adults. So please, trust me when I tell you that getting frustrated will only make things worse. When you are frustrated, your pup likely is as well. And when puppies are frustrated, they won't learn! So, if you find a certain puppy behavior like biting or situation starting to overwhelm you… take a timeout. Let your pup cool down in their crate or sleep area and give yourself a few minutes to regroup. Guess what. So, do what you need to do for a personal break, and then recommit and get back at it! They have a keen sense of noticing our emotions. When frustration creeps in, learning stops for both human and dog. Redirecting to a game of tug of war can help teach your pup what is okay and not okay to chew on. As we mentioned before, puppies explore the world with their mouth, that is totally normal! Many pup parents have found it best to approach your pup with the toy in hand so you can be ready if the hand chomping starts happening. Teaching your dog tug can be a great way to stop puppy biting. Just remember, these behaviors can take significant practice and time to overcome. The question is, are you rewarding those positive behaviors and moments as you should be? If you are going through the process of overcoming puppy biting, you need to remember to praise the successful moments. When your pup comes up to you and lets you pet them without getting nippy, praise and reward them! Maybe you will see your puppy chewing a toy instead of your slippers or hand, reward them! If your puppy licks your hand instead of biting it, reward them! A huge part, and often underlooked, of training a puppy is to praise their successes. Treat each victory as a party and break out the fun, , and praise. Your job as a pup parent is to teach your dog what you want them to do. PS- If you're looking for a high-value reward treat for your pup, we've got your back! Check out our. Of course, you praise the positive moments but at times, you have to take away what your pup is desiring. In the instance of biting, pups are looking for playtime and engagement with us humans. Leave the room, put them in another room, or put them into a playpen for minutes. Implementing this method consistently will help your pup come to understand that when biting starts, playtime stops. A note on this, in most cases it is best to not use the crate as a negative reinforcer like a timeout. For example, when your pup starts nibbling, do your best to not jerk your hand away quickly. Most dogs love things that are moving! So if you jerk your hand or foot away, your pup may think you are trying to be playful. If your pup starts biting, let your hand go limp. Another way to make your skin a little less enticing is to keep them covered when possible. Being a successful pup parent oftentimes comes down to how well you can set your pup up for success. So if you know your pup is going through an extreme biting phase, consider keeping that skin covered when at home. It can be wearing socks, long sleeves and pants, and other things like that! When the puppy biting phase is at its worst, every little bit of help is important! Dogs are obviously very skilled at helping each other learn what is okay for play, and what is too aggressive. One quick note on socializing your puppy is that you should always be there to monitor them! Be active and aware and be ready to intervene if the play gets out of hand or aggressive. Some dogs have lower levels of patience with puppy biting, so be aware of how the other dogs are responding. Many pup parents find that the more they can correctly socialize their puppy, the milder the puppy biting will become. If you can effectively teach them a behavior that they can only do without biting then you'll be much closer to no biting! While there are plenty of alternative biting behaviors you can teach, here are some favorites:. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You turn your attention back to your computer screen and suddenly feel little teeth grabbing at your sock! You look down. Your once-angelic puppy is now having a full on game of tug-of-war with your pant leg! This cute baby is now more like a furry little monster. You get up and try to walk away, but the fur alligator is still attached, munching away at your trousers and having the best time! If this sounds like your life, read on to learn how to stop a puppy from biting. Why Do Puppies Bite? Believe it or not, this scenario is actually very common! Biting is one of the most natural things in the world to a young pup; and they do it for many reasons. You would be left with your feet and mouth to interact, taste and feel your environment. Now, what if you had puppy paws — incapable of grasping anything? That leaves you with one final way to interact — your mouth. For good measure, add in the incredible curiosity of a child. How many times do you see a baby grab things with their hands and pop them into the mouth? Puppies have that same mindset. Your mouth strength and play bite helped you communicate and determine your rank in society. Your mouthy mojo gave you respect in canine culture. Puppies interact with their surroundings largely through their mouths. Labradors, like most sporting breeds, have the drive to chase after prey, put it in their mouths, and bring it back to you. This translates into a strong need to chew. They will try this same tactic with their human pack members. If ignored, one bite on the toe is often enough to get the focus back on them. Remember, to a puppy even negative attention is still attention. Terrible Teething When you add teething into the mix, you have the recipe for a furry gator. Most pups will have an increased need to chew while teething , which can begin at 6 weeks and last to 8 months of age. Unlike teething, there is no magical age that puppies grow out of a learned mouthing behavior. Thankfully, with positive training, most dogs eventually lose interest in chewing on their owners. Types of Biting: Aggression or Play? Puppies use their teeth in many ways. However, this is actually just very intense play. Play biting can be accompanied with growling and snarling. This is just part of the fun to a young pup. Instead, we will look into how we can prevent playful mouthing. However, it is important to recognize the signs of aggression. Pay attention to the timing of the biting as well. If so, the motive behind the bite may be more aggressive. Could it be Resource Guarding? Some dogs also aggressively bite when they are guarding a toy or food item, commonly called resource guarding. With resource guarding, you will see the same behavior as aggressive biting, but they will also stand over an object and defend it from any perceived threat. If you think your puppy is behaving aggressively, seek professional help to learn how to actively manage this issue. In contrast to this, playing puppies will be relaxed and have a wiggly body. They will be bouncy, easily roll onto their backs and often be panting with open mouths. Even if they are growling, a relaxed face and body mean a happy puppy. What Can Trigger Biting? Do you really want your pound Labrador to target your hands as a toy later? Children Little kids tend to excite puppies more than adults. Children move erratically, run around, make strange sounds and have a lot more energy. Puppies can easily associate them with toys. Ankle Biters Puppies target fast moving objects that excite their prey drive. Your feet moving by at their eye level can be irresistible. After all, what self-respecting puppy would snub shoes with those floppy laces that are perfect for playing tug? How do we do this? Redirection with Hands When training your puppy, always have a toy to offer. Remember, puppies are like babies. Your job is to redirect them to fun toys instead of human skin. You must do everything possible to make toys extremely attractive so the puppy chooses them over your clothing, hands or feet. Redirection with Kids You can also use redirection around children. First, teach your puppy to use interactive toys and then show your child how to play with the puppy correctly. In the event that your dog forgets, teach your kids to be a tree when their puppy begins to bite them or their clothes. This position makes them less interactive to the puppy. They look boring and the puppy will lose interest. Most bites occur because the child is running or moving erratically. Remember, dogs have the same prey triggers as wolves. If something is running away, it looks like prey. Your job, therefore, is to have an even more amazing toy than your feet. You can take a toy, tie it to a rope, and then tie the rope to your belt so that you are dragging the toy whenever your pup is out. If your puppy is coming for your feet, stop moving them and wave the toy around excitedly instead. Once the pup is attached to the toy, you can start walking again. This way, they will pounce on the toy instead of you! Bite inhibition simply means that the puppy learns not to apply too much force behind their teeth. They apply gentle, but firm, pressure to their greeting. Puppies also learn to limit this pressure with their mouths by feedback from pack members. When puppies are little, they learn bite inhibition through play with their siblings. If two pups are tussling, and one bites down too hard, the other puppy yelps loudly. This startling sound usually causes the offending party to let go. The play stops for a few minutes, as the first pup nurses his wounded ego. Play then resumes, but with less brutality. Instead, let the puppy release your hand and then simply get up and and move away from your pup while ignoring them. Your job is to teach them when they bite down on you, the fun stops. Ignore them for about a minute, then return and resume the play and praise them when they focus on the toy. If they bite you too hard again, repeat this process. You can either step over a puppy barrier or go into another room and shut the door. Just make sure they are in a puppy-proof area, as they may take out their frustration on inappropriate household items. You can also keep the puppy on a leash while playing with them. If they bite you, you can calmly tether them to something and then walk out of their reach. Your goal is to correct the puppy only by taking away your fun presence. You should not be threatening or angry. Give them the appropriate time out from the fun interaction to settle down, and then come back with a toy to redirect their energy. Once they understand they have to be gentle, you can then start to ask more of them by ending the game with lighter and lighter pressure on your skin. Finally, you can take the game to the highest standard — no teeth on human skin at all. If you slowly progress to this over weeks, you teach your pup to have a soft mouth. If they do feel the need to put their teeth on a human, they know not to put much pressure into their bite. You need to teach your puppy that human skin is fragile and requires a softer touch than a canine interaction. Your goal for this exercise should be to help your puppy understand that the play and fun things continue as long as they keep their teeth on their toy and not on you! More Ways to Stop Your Puppy Biting While the yelp and time-out method works for most pups, there are additional ways to reinforce good behavior. When your puppy bites your hand, they get a terrible taste. You can use anti-chewing sprays like Bitter Apple to make your hands less appealing. When your puppy bites you, be still and wait for them to react to the bitter taste. When they let go, praise them and redirect them onto a treat or toy. You want the crate to always be associated with only good things. Crates also should be in the middle of the household, with the rest of the pack — not isolated. This is the same way other canine pack members would isolate them. A laundry room or puppy pen works well for this exercise. Make sure the room is comfortable and safe for your puppy. When the puppy is too stimulated, calmly put him in the room with some teething toys and leave. Teaching them interactive games like fetch or bringing you a toy to tug helps show them that they can have even more fun when they play by your rules. Positive play helps develop a bond with your dog. You never want to avoid it, you just want to show them how to play without biting you. Teaching puppies to retrieve objects helps to tire them out, gives them something positive to chase, and focuses their bite on an appropriate item. Plus, most Labradors are pretty good at retrieving! Remember, anytime we ask a puppy to stop a behavior, it should be because they are rewarded in an even more exciting and positive way for doing something else and things our way. The following video shows how. Video: How to Stop a Puppy from Biting This video shows how to use clicker training to stimulate a puppy in situations where they normally would bite; and then reward them when they choose a closed mouth and calm interaction. Dominant Puppies Dogs are individuals. However, as puppies mature, there may be the rare pup that uses biting as a way to take charge. Dominant puppies may bite to show you that they want to be the boss as they mature. This happens naturally among littermates, as all packs have a pecking order. This reinforces to them that you are backing down and that they are the leader in the relationship. Always remain calm and assertive with your puppy, but end the game as soon as they begin vying for leadership instead of playing. Remember, the alternative to not training your dog is a large animal putting his mouth on people. Be patient with your puppy. Remember, mouthing and biting are normal parts of canine culture. If you stay patiently positive, train consistently, and redirect and reward good behavior, you will soon see a puppy that learns to bring you a tug toy instead of shredding your trousers. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Lab puppies are incredibly cute, but their teeth really hurt when they are puncturing your skin every time you try to play. No one likes to be bitten, so how can you get a lab puppy to stop biting? The best way to stop a Lab puppy from biting is through a combination of proper exercise, training, redirection, and the use of positive affirmation. Most owners attempt at least one of these methods, but it is the combination and use of all of them that will effectively curb unwanted biting. Keep in mind that before you can stop it effectively, you should know why Labrador puppies bite so much. Additionally, know when they tend to naturally stop biting. Only then can you effectively begin to work on preventing them from biting. Lab puppies use their mouths to explore their environment and gather important information. When puppies are growing their adult teeth, they will often chew to soothe the ache along their gums. Labs may also bite to play or out of fear and aggression. Biting for Sensory Information When a puppy bites something, they learn how hard they can bite it, what it tastes like, how it feels, and if they can bite it again. All of this information is stored in a mental catalog your dog looks back on when encountering a similar object. This learning process is very important for puppies to become well-socialized dogs. When a puppy bites another puppy too hard they will lose their playmate. Biting too hard can have negative repercussions! Biting for sensory information is a totally normal behavior for puppies and even adult dogs. Since they don't have hands to explore with, their mouths are the only option. However, if you don't want your dog's mouth on you or your belongings, there are ways to stop this biting but we'll get to that later! Biting for Teething As your Lab matures, their mouths will start to change. Once their adult teeth begin to push up through their gums, the teeth they were born with begin to fall out one by one. It is the same process humans go through when their baby teeth come in and are later replaced with adult teeth. Just like with humans, this process is somewhat painful and incredibly uncomfortable. To help quicken the process, puppies will chew on things to wear down the gum between the new tooth and their mouth. This practice is also very soothing for puppies, especially if they chew on something cold. Biting for Play vs Biting for Aggression In the wild, dogs and wolves play by wrestling around and biting one another. Since your dog sees you as a member of its pack, they will try to play with you in a similar way. Of course, this biting still isn't ideal, but it's important to know the difference between play and real aggression. When a dog bites out of aggression, it is because they are scared, or you are asking them to do something they really don't want to do. Biting out of aggression is important to watch and fix at a young age so you don't end up with an aggressive dog. The most significant indicator of aggressive biting is body language. When a puppy is being playful, their body and facial muscles are relaxed. When a puppy is biting out of aggression, their body will be stiff or frozen, their face will have a lot of tension in it, and their lips may be pulled back in a snarl or growl. If you are seeing a lot of aggression in your puppy, you should contact your Veterinarian to make sure they are not in pain. When a dog suddenly becomes aggressive, they may have an unseen condition that is causing them to lash out. If you get a clear bill of health, you should seek the help of a professional trainer to help you. As we said earlier, as your Labrador matures, they will start to develop adult teeth. This change usually occurs around 12 to 16 weeks of age; the process will reach its end at about 7 months. Therefore, if your Lab is biting to soothe its gums, then the biting should end around the same time their teeth have fully grown in. If your puppy is biting for sensory information and play, it will lessen as your Lab matures and begins to slow down. While there is no magic number that says when your Lab will calm down , it usually happens between the ages of 2 and 4. First, don't hit your puppy as punishment. They aren't doing anything wrong in their mind because biting is natural. You also can't decide when it is and isn't okay to bite. Doing so can cause great confusion. When trying to prevent your Lab from biting, a few tips can help you. Exercise, training, redirecting, and positive affirmations are your secret weapons against those adorable, tiny, sharp teeth. Exercise Exercising your Lab daily will cause them to be too exhausted to do anything but sleep, let alone bite you. You can exercise your Lab by playing fetch, going on walks, or using enrichment toys. Training First, I recommend formal fundamental training before attempting anything specialized. Training your Lab not to bite sounds complicated, but it can be as easy as slapping some butter and seasoning on. If your Lab is biting YOU, put some butter on your arms and clothes wear they like to bite you. Show the butter to your Lab, and when they lick at it, say "yes, kisses, yes. This associates the word "kisses" with the act of licking and the yummy taste your dog gets. The next time your Lab tries to bite you, say "kisses," they should start to lick you instead as they try for the yummy taste. If your Lab is biting furniture or shoes, there is another approach. Grab a spicy seasoning, like paprika or taco seasoning, and sprinkle it on the places your Lab chews. Then, the next time they go to chew it, they will get a nasty taste in their mouth and leave the thing alone! Redirecting Redirecting your dog to things they are allowed to chew on when playing is another way to avoid being bitten. Have some good chew toys handy whenever you are playing with your Lab. When your Lab starts to bite you, show them a chew toy and try directing the bite towards it. After a while, your puppy should go after its toys instead of you. This type of training takes time , but is proven to be very effective. Positive Affirmation When your dog does what you want, whether it's licking or going for a proper toy, make sure you give them lots of praise. Tell them how good they are and even provide them with a treat or two! Final Thoughts Biting is a natural part of a Lab's life, but it is crucial to decipher playful nips and aggressive ones. Playful body language is loose and relaxed Aggressive body language is stiff and snarling If you are seeing a lot of aggressive body language in your Lab, make sure they are healthy and contact a trainer A Lab will probably stop biting after they stop teething If your Lab doesn't stop biting after teething, they should stop upon reaching maturity between 2 and 4 years of age Exercise, training, redirecting, and positive affirmation are the best ways to stop biting NEVER hit your dog to stop biting. This awful biting time with puppies seems like it will go on for ever, but actually it only lasts a few weeks - mostly by the time the new teeth have come through, at about four to five months, the biting stops, and soon you will find you have a dog with a gentle mouth. You may not realize it, but your puppy is already being careful to some extent - if you have ever fed a puppy a raw chicken wing, for instance, you will know that he would be completely capable of biting right through your fingers, if he really wanted to. He is already pulling his punches, and now just needs your help to learn that human skin is more delicate than the thick fur of his mother and siblings. Your puppy sounds like he gets wound up and overtired the mad running around the house. This is the time a crate or quiet area can work wonders. Stay calm, keep giving him toys and chews to chomp on instead of your hands, refuse to interact with him when he bites you - even a second or two of no attention will help him to realize you really don't like it. Grabbing his cheeks and pulling him obviously doesn't work, he probably thinks it's some kind of game, and the attention you are inadvertently bestowing on him in that way seems to be making the situation worse.It will help if you teach him what you DO want, which is calm, gentle behaviour. Don't forget to praise him quietly and calmly when he is being good and quiet. I found holding one end of a chew such as a bully stick , so that we were interacting without him actually hurting me, helped. I also found that working out a routine was very helpful, so that we would go outside to play, then he would have his food, go out again to pee, then I would put him in his bed in the crate or behind a gate for a rest. Don't panic, this is very normal puppy behaviour, and I guarantee it will pass. You will get there. In a couple of months you'll be telling us what a delight he is.Print How to stop your puppy from biting your hands and feet — fast! Have you ever watched a litter of retriever puppies play with each other? They are all mouths and feet as they growl, bite and paw at each other. Over time, if left to it, each pup will naturally figure out their place in the pack. However, when you bring your Lab puppy home there are no longer littermates with whom to tussle. And the result is often that your Lab puppy will start biting and growling at you! The problem is that puppy teeth are sharp. Very sharp! And when your puppy bites you, even if they are playing, it hurts. So, what can you do to stop this behavior before it gets out of hand and you find yourself or someone in your family injured by your puppy? Before I go any further, I want to be clear about what we are talking about. You should seek professional help and evaluation. Why puppies bite and growl Puppy play is a kind of training for a dog as they grow and mature. It is also a way that dogs determine rank within a group. Remember, dogs are pack animals. In a pack there is only one Alpha lead dog. Every other dog is under the authority and control of that dog. No two dogs share the same rank. So, while biting and growling starts as play, it does not stay that way. All dogs, whether in a group of dogs or a human family, want to understand their place in the family. They need to know their place. It helps they be more mentally balanced and will help solve a multitude of behavioral problems. Once a puppy or dog understands where they rank in the pack, they often assume that place, at least for a while. Remember, they are dogs. They are not robots so occasionally they may challenge their position, but if the boundary remains clear, the challenge is short lived. Biting, nipping and playful growling at a human can become a challenge of dominance. If your puppy is young, you can quickly and easily end this behavior by establishing boundaries and consistently enforcing these boundaries each and every time your puppy shows this type of behavior. If you have let this behavior go on for a while, you may be in for quite a fight to take back your authority. Biting is not the same as chewing A puppy biting your hand or feet is not the same as a puppy chewing on a shoe, toy or other item. All puppies have a need to chew. As their puppy teeth grow and their adult teeth come in, it is common for dogs to chew on things to relieve the pain and help the new teeth to come in. This should not be discouraged, but rather encouraged on an appropriate item like a chew toy, nylabone or rawhide. And if this works, this is an appropriate solution. Instead, it is likely an issue of dominance. How to stop puppy from biting you Biting is just one puppy dominance behavior. There are many others such as jumping on you, putting a paw on your feet, and lifting and placing paws on your arms or legs. The behaviors I have listed are often gateway behaviors that escalate into more aggressive or troublesome behaviors like stealing food off your plate or the counter, pushing you out of the way when going through doors and pulling you around on a lead. Start by establishing firm boundaries The first step to stopping your puppy from biting or mouthing you is to set up firm boundaries for your puppy. You can set these up for not only biting but for all dominance behaviors. So, what is a boundary? Well, here are some examples. Some people we have worked with are okay with their puppy mouthing their hand as long as there is no tooth pressure. If you feel the same way, then make that a boundary. But if there is any tooth pressure, a swift and consistent correction will follow. This boundary is stronger and does not give the dog any room for confusion. In fact, they often will understand what your boundaries are but will test that standard against everyone else in the family. Each person needs to set and enforce boundaries. React with firm consistent corrections After you establish the boundary, you now need to react every time your puppy or dog crosses that boundary. Each and every time! There can be no room for confusion. Your corrections must be swift and consistent. Not all dogs react to the same level of pressure. For some dogs, this squeeze and strong words will be all it takes to stop the behavior. Especially if you are consistent in your correction. But some dogs have a stronger or more challenging personality. This will give your puppy a taste of his own medicine since his puppy teeth are sharp and will pinch into his lips or flews. You must be consistent. How long will it take to stop my puppy from biting me? If you are firm and consistent, the behavior should stop for the most part in a day or two. Some dogs require more pressure, some less. Your puppy should feel some discomfort. That is okay. The point is to show your puppy that biting hurts and that it is not an acceptable behavior. When nothing seems to work If you puppy is a bit older and has been getting away with biting and mouthing you for a while, you may struggle to end this behavior. Often the problem is a strong dominance issue that needs to be addressed. If your puppy continues to snap or bite at you even after a correction, you likely need to exert some dominance over your puppy. This is similar to what a mommy dog does to a puppy that is not behaving. Humans can do the same thing to show dominance over a rebellious puppy. I know, it sound a bit ridiculous but it really does work. Instead, remain calm and patient. Stay in control. Reacting with emotion can lead to strong reactions or punishment that you will later regret. The point is to show your dog that you are the Alpha in the relationship, and you can and will determine what behavior is acceptable. Biting is not love As a professional dog trainer, I am always surprised at what some of clients consider appropriate behavior. Some owners feel that setting boundaries and enforcing those boundaries means that you do not love your dog. That you need to accept all dog behaviors otherwise you do not love your dog. This is a false and faulty mindset. We have seen clients who have been injured by their dog multiple times and they still refuse to take steps to end the behavior. That is not love. What if the next person that dog bites is a child? Would you be able to live with that? A dog that is allowed to continue harming humans is only one bite away from having to be put down. It may sound harsh, but it is the sad truth. Some people may argue that the dog is unable to understand what they are doing is wrong. This is not based on reality. Dogs are very smart. They can learn to do amazing things and become incredible hunting partners and family companions. But they rarely achieve this potential without an owner who cares enough to set boundaries and enforce them. Final thoughts on how to stop my puppy biting me all the time You can stop your puppy from biting you and others if you are willing to take the steps necessary to make your dog understand that biting is not an acceptable behavior. A firm consistent correction each and every time your puppy bites will quickly teach your puppy to stop biting. These corrections will not harm your relationship with your puppy, but will, in fact, enhance it. Your puppy will quickly learn where the boundaries are and how to operate within those boundaries. We see it time and again, once a puppy is taught that there are boundaries, they quickly adjust and become wonderful loving and obedient family members. Help, my Lab puppy keeps biting me! 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. Calm puppy behavior. Conflicting advice on how to stop your pup biting Many articles will tell you to ignore a puppy when he bites and to offer him a toy instead. Some people will tell you to punish your biting puppy. Others will tell you that you must not stop your puppy biting too suddenly, or punish him for biting, for fear of drastic consequences later. So who is right, and who is wrong? Does ignoring stop your puppy biting? Many new puppy owners try to ignore the biting puppy initially. This failure tends to be for one or more of the following reasons. Does noise stop puppy biting? There is no doubt that a sufficiently loud squeal, followed by immediate withdrawal of attention, will cause many Labrador puppies to break off from biting. Sometimes long enough for a skilled owner to then redirect the puppy into a more appropriate activity. There is also no doubt that for some puppies, this has the reverse effect, and causes them to bite harder and more fiercely. A puppy that has spent sufficient time with his Mum, may be more likely to take heed of this verbal warning, as he will expect it to be followed by a sharp click of her teeth and a fiercer rebuke if he ignores her. But there are no guarantees here. And the fact is, squealing simply does not work as an effective anti-biting strategy, for some puppies. Punishing the puppy to stop biting I have heard, even quite experienced, breeders tell new puppy owners to punish their puppy if he bites. Either by intimidating the puppy with an angry growling voice, or even with physical punishment such as a scruff shake or slap. But there are problems with this approach. This process is called bite inhibition. And the use of punishment may curtail all biting rather than just the hardest, most painful, bites. Nowadays many people like to train dogs without punishment. And there are strong reasons for joining them — check out this article — the downside of punishing dogs. Teaching puppy to stop biting Why would we want to teach dogs to bite humans gently? Why is it not best to teach them not to bite at all, right from the start? The idea of reducing biting gradually was popularised by Ian Dunbar. The theory is that a dog which learns to inhibit his bite i. You can read more about bite inhibition here: Labrador Puppies Biting. The concept is a sound one, and most canine behaviorists agree that teaching gradual bite inhibition is a good thing. The problem for many new puppy owners, is stopping those painful bites in the first place! The first step is not a technique at all, but an adjustment in the expectations that we have of a small puppy How much do Lab puppies bite? New puppy owners tend to have false expectations of puppies. They also anticipate that stopping a puppy from biting will be a fairly quick and simple matter. None of these expectations is true. Most puppies bite hard, frequently and growl fiercely whilst they are doing it. This noise is not a sign of aggression see Help my puppy is aggressive. Stopping a puppy from biting is a process, a journey. And it can be temporarily an uncomfortable one! It is important to accept that there is no guaranteed way of stopping biting immediately. Indeed, as we have seen, bite prevention rather than inhibition may be a bad thing in any case. Supervise your puppy around children Once you have got your head around the fact that this process will take some time, that it will be a gradual thing, you need to think about how you are going to protect any children that might come into contact with the puppy. This is important because small children can, both hurt and, be hurt by small biting puppies. Calm your puppy to stop him biting The next priority is to keep your puppy calm. Overexcited puppies bite harder and more frequently than less excited puppies. This will merely start the biting up all over again. There are lots of ways to interact with puppies without physically playing with them. Check out our article on playing safely with your dog. What to do when a puppy bites When your puppy bites you really hard, take immediate action. Stand up, move away from him and completely withdraw your attention. You can try the squeal thing if you want to. This works well with some puppies. Be ready for it, and repeat your actions. If the puppy chases after you, biting at your legs and feet, step over a baby gate, or pop him in his crate for a few minutes. You can read up on this process in more detail in this article: How to cope with biting. Remember, puppies enjoy chewing , and teething puppies need to chew on something. Whilst you and your clothing are not suitable chew toys, you need to provide your puppy with alternatives, like Kong toys. How to stop your puppy biting Biting is normal Biting should be inhibited in stages Training takes time The key points to take away from this are that biting is normal, and that training a puppy not to bite takes time. Stop the painful bites first, then work on putting a stop to mouthing. If what you are doing is not working, you probably just need to be more patient and persistent. If your children are suffering, you need to separate and supervise. Work hard on keeping your puppy calm — it makes the biggest difference. How to train a puppy not to bite Is it normal for puppies to bite a lot? Yes it is! Almost all puppies bite and some bite much harder than others. How long do puppies teeth and bite? With some exceptions, puppy biting will stop by the time your puppy has his full set of grown up teeth at 7 months. Fortunately, you can stop your puppy from biting long before they have cut all their adult teeth. Do puppies grow out of biting? If you do nothing at all, to teach a puppy not to bite, the biting would likely subside over the next few months. But its very easy to do the wrong thing, and actually encourage a puppy to bite more. And in those cases, play biting can become very rough and the relationship between a young dog and their family can break down. Do All Labradors Bite? Anyone who shares their home with a 10 or 12 week old puppy will tell you that Labradors bite! And I can reassure you that this applies to all Labradors in the first few months of life. Fortunately this is a phase puppies go through and not a permanent character flaw. And most adult Labradors are indeed very good natured dogs. And also at what is normal, and what is not. If your children are in tears at being bitten every time they try to play with and cuddle their new friend, you may be wondering if your puppy is becoming aggressive. You may even worry that your children might be at risk. Fortunately I can reassure you that this is not the case. While your puppy may frighten your children with his sharp teeth and growling. The way he is behaving now does not mean he will be a threat to their safety in the future. Happily, studies have shown that behavior in small puppies is not predictive of the way that they will behave as adults! Why Do Puppies Bite Children? Some breeders will not sell puppies to homes where there are small children. This is because puppies often bite children and teenagers harder and more persistently than they bite grown-ups. It is normal for small puppies to make small children cry, but before you rush your puppy off to the local shelter, bear with me a moment, because I can help with that. Children give off conflicting signals to the puppy. Fortunately there are lots of ways to make it easier on yourself and on your kids. In short, you need to be a little patient at this point, and it helps to know that this phase does pass quite quickly. And that it is completely normal for all puppies to bite a lot, and to bite children with particular enthusiasm! It has to be said, Labradors are even more bitey than some other breeds of dog during this stage in their development. In fact, retrievers generally tend to be very bitey as puppies. As can the pain of being bitten. Puppy bites do hurt. And sometimes they leave marks. Pain, bruising, scratching, little tooth marks on your toddler, these are all part and parcel of raising a puppy. Some very enthusiastic puppies will even draw blood on occasions. All this is normal, but I will explain what you can do about it. Perhaps the most serious concern that new puppy parents have, is the fear that their puppy is becoming aggressive. What really worries people is the snarling. When puppies play, they practice being fierce. They throw themselves into the whole play acting thing with huge enthusiasm. And they are brilliant at it. And the most important part of that game is to make as much noise as possible and to sound as angry as possible. So, all puppies growl or snarl ferociously when they play, while they are biting, and sometimes when they are trying to entice their poor owners into yet another game. His little face will be all scrunched up, his lips drawn back, his teeth showing. So he has no idea that he is frightening your children or that you are wondering if he is turning into a horrible aggressive and dangerous beast. Please do be reassured, that however fierce your ten week old puppy sounds. It is just a game. He is truly just playing. Normal Puppy Play Behavior So, the hard truth is, all puppies bite. And many puppy bites are quite painful. Some Labrador puppies bite more than most, and biting a lot, and growling or snarling at the same time is normal. So is biting so hard that it makes your eyes water, and even occasionally breaks the skin. Puppies bite at hands that go to stroke them, at bare feet, and happily tug away at clothing, all the while trying to sound as fierce as they possibly can. All this is normal. And you, quite naturally, will want to know exactly when it is going to stop! When Do Puppies Stop Biting? It also happens in working dog families where the dogs may be kennelled or at least are not allowed unsupervised interaction with anyone apart from their trainer or main carer. A study carried out on Guide Dog puppies in showed that simply rejecting interaction and refusing to play was enough to stop the puppies biting their adult puppy walkers. But, and it is a big but — in most young families, this is not always what happens. In many families, especially where the puppy is a novelty, everyone plays with the puppy, and often in quite a physical way. This gets puppies very excited and tends to make biting worse. Inexperienced puppy owners also tend to inadvertently prolong the biting phase by rewarding the puppy with attention when he bites. The more excited they get, the harder they bite. Rough physical play gets puppies excited, rubbing puppies tummies, chasing puppies, grabbing at puppies. All these things get puppies bubbling with excitement Noisy behavior can get puppies excited too, so children squealing, or crying, grown ups shouting or getting cross. You might not think you are rewarding your puppy for biting, but you probably are. Labrador puppies are particularly social and love attention more than most puppies do. Any kind of contact with you, or other members of the family, including physical contact, talking, shouting, even eye contact, all reward your puppy. And if you give him these things while he is biting, this will reinforce the biting behavior and he will bite more in the future Poor bite inhibition What makes the bites hurt more, is poor bite inhibition. So the next section explains what bite inhibition is and how you can help your puppy improve his. What Is Bite Inhibition? At just eight or nine weeks old , Labrador puppies are actually capable of crushing bones the thickness of your little finger, with their jaws. Your puppy has been learning to inhibit his bite since he was tiny. His mother and brothers and sisters all helped to teach him how hard he can bite without hurting them. This is where your training will come in. You can read more about bite inhibition and bite inhibition training in this article What About Puppy Teething? We mentioned teething earlier because people tend to associate biting with teething. So, is it true that puppies bite so much because they are teething? And how long will teething go on for? In fact, most problem puppy biting is simply play. Puppies may chew or mouth at fingers to help relieve the discomfort of teething, but this is not the major cause of the biting problems we find in homes with small puppies. Most puppies have their adult teeth by the time they are 7 months old, but biting does not usually last that long. He is growing fast and by 11 or 12 weeks those bites will hurt a lot more. The time to begin taking action is now! But for the time being, you need to put this image aside. Children under five are simply not capable of playing with a puppy under four months without getting bitten. So you need to supervise every interaction between them. Do put baby gates across doorways, even if you no longer need them for your children. Baby gates allow you to separate children and puppies when you are not free to supervise. Do show children how to stroke the puppy gently whilst you hold one end of a rawhide chew and let the puppy gnaw on the other end. It will end in tears. Playful Visitors It is not just children that play inappropriately with puppies. I have known grown men grapple roughly with a tiny puppy, rolling him around the floor, making growling noises, whilst the puppy gnaws on his knuckles. You can find out how to play safely with a Labrador in this article. Saving your sanity and enjoying your puppy If you were not expecting this, it can seem like a big deal, but supervision and some separation is essential if you are to keep your sanity, and your children are to dry their tears and carry on enjoying their puppy. With older children, you need to teach them how to interact with the puppy without getting him overwrought. Labrador puppies, like toddlers, are easily over-excited. And when they are over-excited they start to be silly. Your first job at this stage, is to keep your puppy calm. Your second job is to stop giving your puppy rewards for biting. Make sure the puppy gets no reward at all when he bites someone. Especially no attention. The next stage explains how you can do that. The process whereby the puppy learns to use his mouth gently on your skin — and it takes a little while. Bite inhibition is taught in stages. The puppy learns to reduce the power of his bites gradually. What to do when your puppy bites If your puppy bites and hurts you, remove your attention immediately. This is where baby gates can be really helpful. If you are playing with your puppy and he bites you, you can step over the gate, thus effectively removing all attention from him. All of a sudden his playmate has disappeared. What about squealing You may have heard that a puppy will stop biting if you yelp or squeal. And you can try this, because it does work with some puppies. But many puppies get even more excited by the yelping, and on others it has no effect. The strongest signal you can give your puppy is the loss of your presence and attention. What about punishment? Some people try and stop puppies biting by smacking them or shouting at them. There are several problems with this. Firstly, it tends to only stop the puppy biting the person who did the yelling. Which is of course the very opposite of what you are trying to achieve! You can find out more about the potential impact of punishing your Labrador here. What if you need to move a biting puppy? If you need to move the puppy away rather than stepping away from the puppy you may find he bites at your hands when you go to pick him up or take hold of his collar. Others bite when they are stroked or petted. We are fond of wiggling our fingers at puppies, petting them and rubbing our fingers in their fur, not behaviors that dogs really understand. And many puppies see fingers and toes as something to chase and play with. Hands are a particular target for puppy bites so teach your children to interact with your puppy using toys that he can tug and bite on, rather than playing with him using their bare hands. Distracting your puppy If you want to sit and pet your puppy, or your children do, use treats or hold a rawhide chew with one hand so he can gnaw on the end. Have your puppy wear a harness and houseline so that you can pick up the end of the line and move him to where you want him to go without his grabbing at your hands. Stage Four: Train Your Puppy Not To Bite This is where we teach the puppy to let us stroke and pet him, or handle him in any way we like, without him putting his mouth around our fingers. The best way to do this is with a clicker and some dog treats. But you can also use a word like YES instead of the click. And place a treat on the floor in front of him You see where I am going with this? Build up slowly so that you can touch him anywhere on his head or body, pick up his paws etc. All without him grabbing or mouthing at you. What do I do if he mouths at me? If the puppy grabs at your hand, you got too close. Make smaller hand movements further away from him until he ignores those, then bring the movements gradually closer. Stage Five: Playing Safely As puppies grow older biting can reappear. Puppies between six and nine months of age, are extremely boisterous, and may start nipping with their teeth during play. At this age, your puppy is more than half grown, and his size and weight are a significant problem if rough play is allowed. The secret to avoiding and resolving this issue is to change the way you interact with your puppy. And to ensure that children follow your example. Boisterous and excitable puppies must not be allowed to play rough games with small people. The consequences can be very unpleasant, and it is no coincidence that this is the age at which many young dogs are abandoned or given up to rescue. Here are a few more articles that you might find helpful:.

What is a Havapoo? This small designer breed is a mixture of a Poodle and a Havanese. It is difficult to say exactly when they were first bred by dog breeders, but we can assume it is from the surge of popularity of Poodle designer dogs, caused by the Labradoodle in the s. The Poodle is originally from Germany, bred to retrieve waterfowl more than years ago. They were then favored by French nobles and aristocrats — their good looks and entertaining personality made them popular companions. The Havanese breed originated in Cuba, it was brought over by Spanish colonists and bred as lapdogs for nobles. Over years of refining the breed have resulted in what we know today as the Havanese. This new mix dog is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, but the Poodle is part of the non-sporting group and the Havanese is part of the toy group. The cost of a Havapoo pup will vary depending on the breeder and the parents. You can expect a healthy Havanese Poodle to live between years. But looking at each parent breed will help give us an idea about what your pup can look like. Some Havapoo puppies will favor their Poodle genes and others may inherit a Havanese look, or they could have a mixture of both. They will have a small roundish head, with a slight but definitive stop. They will have well-set dark eyes, most commonly brown. Their ears will be floppy and fall down onto their cheeks. Their small rectangular build and short legs will give them a toy-like look — this is exaggerated if they are bred with the Miniature Poodle. No matter the unpredictability of the Havapoo look, there is no doubt they will be cute and adorable. Height and Weight The Havapoo can range in size, it mainly depends on which Poodle their parent is standard or miniature. The Miniature Poodle can weigh between lb and stands between inches. Whereas, the Standard Poodle can weigh between lb and stand over 15 inches tall. The Havanese breed can weigh lb and stand up to .You should expect your Havapoo to weigh around lb and stand between inches tall — the smaller Havapoo is bred from Miniature Poodles. Colors Both the Poodle and the Havanese have a wide range of coat colors solids, bi-colors, and tri-colors. According to the AKC breed standard, Havanese dogs have 16 official colors. Some of these include black, black, and silver, chocolate, white, fawn, silver and gold. The Poodle breed standard states there are 10 official colors, some of these include apricot, black, blue, brown, gray, silver, and cream. So your Havapoo can have any number of colors! It is also common for the Havapoo to have white markings on their chest, face, and on their feet. Coat One thing you can almost guarantee with your Havanese Poodle is their luscious coat. They can have either a medium or long-length coat. The coat can either be wavy or curly, depending on which parent breed the Havapoo pup favors the most. Havapoo Temperament Just like their appearance, the Havapoo temperament is unpredictable as they could favor one of their parent breeds traits over the other. To understand the Havapoo dog more, we can look at each parent breed. The Poodle is famous for its intelligence. They are also very sensitive to our body language and voices, which might give them an edge when it comes to obedience and socializing. They can be shy with strangers at first, but once they are familiar they will come around. Miniature Poodles are likely to be more excitable and anxious than Standard Poodles, so this is something to consider. It should be noted that Miniature Poodles are more likely to be shy and fearful in new situations; socialization can help a Mini Poodle to become more confident. Havanese are affectionate dogs, they are more confident and outgoing than the Poodle. These pups are mischievous and playful and will make their own fun, by chewing your shoes if you have not given them enough attention. So what does this mean for your Havanese Poodle mix? The Havapoo is a friendly companion dog that will thrive in a loving home. Being a very loving and trustworthy mix breed, they are not good guard dogs. They are great with dogs and other pets. When introducing a Havanese Poodle to other pets, introduce them gradually, by presenting them with something with their scent on and then let them meet face-to-face. Your Havapoo will always need their favorite chew toy. The Havapoo is not known to be yappy, but they can and do use their voice! They will bark when playing or when they are excited. Havanese Poodle mix dog is great with kids — they love playtime and a nice cuddle session and will be gentle and loving towards children. In addition to them being eager to please, they do very well with dog training. They do best with positive reinforcement, so give your dog a reward when they follow your command or when they stop unwanted behaviors. As they are a dog that is sensitive to your body language and voice tone, your Havapoo will respond positively if you are confident and give them encouragement. If, as an owner, you are stressed out, your dog will sense this and become anxious as well. Do not punish your Havanese Poodle, it will stress them out and even encourage them to continue the behavior. Socialization is just as important as training. Even though the Havapoo is a fairly sociable dog, they still need socializing in new situations as a pup. Introduce your puppy to new experiences and situations. Being highly intelligent and energetic, the Poovanese needs to keep its mind occupied. Give them a puzzle feeder, or play games with them like hide and seek or go find the treat. Teaching your dog new and fun tricks will also keep their mind sharp. Caring for a Havapoo The Havapoo is a fairly small dog and can adapt well to apartment life. They are suited for any type of family including singles, couples, big families, or empty-nest homes. As long as you give them enough attention, including their exercise needs, they are quite happy to just be by your side. Exercise Requirements They may be small, but that does not mean they are lazy. In fact, they are very energetic and playful. With all this energy to burn, they should be getting at least 1 hour of exercise a day. They also need a couple of hours of indoor playtime, so buy them a few toys. Grooming and Shedding Grooming your Poovanese is fairly easy. A simple brush every other day to prevent tangles and matting will be plenty. Only give them a bath when they are particularly smelly or if they have been playing around in the mud. Bathing a dog too much can wash away their natural oils, leaving their coat dry and dull. General dog grooming should also be taken care of. This includes brushing their teeth twice a week, trimming their nails, and cleaning their ears. Feeding and Diet Knowing what to feed your Havapoo dog is not an exact science, you should feed them a balanced doggy diet with all their nutritional needs in check. Dogs need: Protein they are the basic building blocks for cells and tissues Dietary fats this is where they will get their most concentrated form of energy Carbohydrates Fiber this keeps their digestive system running nicely Vitamins and minerals are also a necessity Feed your Havapoo high-quality natural dog food and make sure to avoid dry food that has artificial filler ingredients like corn syrup. How much you feed them depends on their weight. If your Havapoo is 15lb they should be fed around 1 cup of kibble each day or if they are 30 lb they should have around 1. They can also be given fruit and veg, to help them get the vitamins and minerals they need. Known Health Problems Havapoos are a designer dog mix, meaning they have less chance of inheriting genetic disorders, as they have more genetic variance. They are prone to developing hip dysplasia and patella luxation — these are joint and bone issues. Patella Luxation is more likely to occur with Miniature Poodles. This is when the kneecap dislocates causing pain and lameness. With planning ahead you could get reimbursed for every vet bill from now on! Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Havapoo Highlights Havapoos come in many different colors and combinations and can be solid, two colors, or three colors. Havapoos have medium energy, and due to their small size, it is pretty easy to manage their exercise needs. Havapoos are smart, but their intelligence can also be used for mischievous ends if your dog feels bored or neglected. Be sure to provide them with lots of stimulation in the form of affection, play, and toys. However, the natural playfulness of the Havapoo makes them a great childhood playmate or adult companion. Havapoos also tend to get along well with other animals. However, they are small and docile. Some more aggressive or rowdy animals in the house may not treat Havapoos gently enough. This particular mix likely started in the USA. The Miniature and Toy sizes , however, only came about in the 19th and 20th century, respectively. The Havanese has been around for over years, coming from, as the name suggests, Havana, Cuba. According to the American Kennel Club, this is the only dog breed native to Cuba. They were originally bred as lap dogs for nobles. They are a direct descendent of the now-extinct Blanquito de la Habana, which was a descendent of the now-extinct Bichon Ternerife. It is believed that the Blanquito was crossed with the Poodle, and possibly with other Bichon breeds Maltese and Bichon Frise to create the Havanese we know and love today. If you want to make a Havapoo part of your life, please opt to adopt! Typically, miniature or toy is used, so you will likely have a small dog, as Havanese parents are also very small. Their height is typically eight to 15 inches, and they can weigh between seven and 30 pounds. They are very easy to train, quick to learn commands, and pretty good decision-makers. That being said, that intelligence can also be used for mischievous ends if your dog feels bored or neglected. Havapoos are extremely loving little lap dogs, and they are happiest with their families. While Havapoos are playful, they also tend to be calm and gentle, not quite as hyperactive as some others of their size category. This makes them great, versatile companions for all ages. As with all dogs, early training and socialization will bring out their best qualities. These hybrids are typically friendly but can have some social anxiety if not properly socialized. Havapoo Health Havapoos are generally pretty healthy dogs. Also, small dogs tend to live longer than large dogs. However, there is a possibility of a Havapoo inheriting health issues from both Havanese and Poodles. The most common issues for Havapoos include: hip dysplasia. This Havanese -poodle mix has a low-shedding, "hypoallergenic" coat , an alert but friendly nature, and an absolutely adorable look. Pair that with the breed's bright mind and moderate exercise needs, and you've got a dog who can fit right in with nearly any home or family, including first-time dog owners. Appearance With any relatively new hybrid dog breed, including the Havapoo, everything from appearance to personality can vary widely. This is true even within the same litter—especially early on, when one parent is a purebred Havanese and one is a purebred poodle. Each Havapoo puppy's looks and temperament depend on which traits he inherits from his parent breeds, so answering questions like, "how big do Havapoos get? Size, in particular, can differ greatly, with full-grown Havapoo dogs ranging from a tiny 10 pounds to as much as 45 pounds. This is because the poodle parent can be a toy , miniature , or standard poodle. But many adult Havapoos stay under 20 pounds because miniature and toy poodle parents are more common. His fluffy tail is just the cherry on top of a practically perfect little pupper. Sometimes called a poovanese, Havadoodle, or Havanoodle, the Havapoo has a soft, shiny coat that's wavy or curly much like a poodle's , and comes in just about any color. While he needs to be brushed thoroughly a few times a week to avoid tangles and mats, it's an easy enough job to do yourself, especially if you use grooming as an opportunity to snuggle and bond. Havapoos don't shed much , thanks to those poodle roots—and that makes them a good choice for people with pet allergies. But remember that no dog is truly percent hypoallergenic , regardless of how they're marketed. Temperament A bright mind, a signature bouncy gait, and a deep and abiding love of laps describes the Havapoo temperament pretty darn well. He's not only a brainy little buddy, but he's eager to learn and show off his tricks, which may be no surprise. The Havanese is known as a trick dog , and both Havanese and poodles have long histories of performing in circuses. This is an eager-to-please dog who's a delight to train using positive reinforcement , but you need to be mindful of how many treats you're giving him as a reward—he can have a tendency to put on weight. Basically, if you have a lap and love to give, they'll be your best friend. They generally get along well with other family pets, too, including cats and other dogs. But don't assume that snuggles are all he needs; this playful breed still demands daily exercise and stimulation to be happy and healthy. While Havapoos aren't typically a yappy dog, they are alert and can be quick to bark when someone new approaches. They're generally equally quick to stop and befriend the newcomer, though, so while he'll play the watchdog, don't count on your Havapoo for any guard duties. Providing your Havapoo puppy with early socialization and training he'll do great in puppy kindergarten classes! Living Needs Do you live in a home or apartment that allows dogs? Congratulations—you have a perfect space for a Havapoo. Even the largest of Havapoos aren't terribly big dogs, and they're as happy in an apartment as they are in a home with a big, fenced yard. Just make sure you're prepared to give them the opportunity to be active each day. He says Havapoo owners should think twice about taking their pup to the dog park. Fortunately, Havapoos don't require a park full of pups to meet their social needs. As long as they have you by their side, their tails will keep wagging. The Havapoo is a quintessential lap dog and will share snuggles with the whole family, but, as with any dog, small children must be supervised around him. But, because the Havapoo's coat will vary a bit depending on how much poodle versus Havanese genes prove dominant, you may need to enlist the help of a professional groomer to keep him looking—and feeling—good, Miller says. Some experts believe this hair should be plucked regularly to prevent ear infections, while others believe that plucking itself can actually cause damage to the skin that leads to ear infections. Miller leans toward plucking, "so that the canals are more open to the air and the pet owners can more easily use ear cleaning solution routinely to keep those ears clear. The Havapoo's fur can also lead to trichiasis , or facial hair rubbing on the eye, Miller says, as well as excessive tearing, which can lead to mats and skin infections near the eye. Havapoos can get feces stuck in the hair around their rear end if this area is not kept well groomed. And like all dog breeds, your Havapoo will benefit from regular nail trims —don't let him click clack across the floor! When it comes to meeting your Havapoo's physical and mental stimulation needs, it should be a pleasure. He's a playful and intelligent dog and wants to make you happy. Using consistent reward-based training will go a long way in a short time. Some will love a certain food, while others crave praise, toys, or games. But be careful not to overdo it on the snacks, as this can impact their weight. Some dogs adapt, but others require surgery to correct the condition. Dental disease is another common issue for small dogs. Here's what you need to know: According to the Havanese Club of America , health issues you may see in this generally healthy breed include eye disorders, chondrodysplasia, deafness , heart murmurs , Legg-Calve-Perthes disease , and patellar luxation. Poodles can be prone to Addison's disease , which affects the adrenal glands, endocrine diseases such as diabetes , Cushing's disease , and bloat , according to the Poodle Club of America. History Although it's impossible to say exactly when and where the Havapoo originated, it's generally believed they came to rise in popularity in the past 20—30 years in the U. His origins may not be clear, but there's no mystery as to why this hybrid breed appealed to breeders and dog lovers alike. Pairing the Havanese's affectionate, funny personality with the poodle's allergy-friendly coat and athleticism makes perfect sense. Be particularly wary of any Havapoo breeder who claims to have mini or "teacup" Havapoo puppies and is marketing them as a unique breed. Unscrupulous breeders are quick to act when a breed—including a crossbreed—becomes popular, and they go on to breed dogs in inhumane conditions, not providing the type of care and attention that responsible breeders give to their dogs. Be smart about shopping for your best furry friend and avoid falling for a puppy mill scheme by watching out for these red flags: There are multiple mixed breeds for sale from the same breeder. The website offers specific wait times for puppies. The breeder offers to ship puppies. Havapoos aren't to be confused with the similarly named Cavapoo a Cavalier King Charles spaniel and poodle mix. Despite the different parent breeds, the two hybrids can look similar. Was this page helpful? They are a happy, outgoing, charming, small but sturdy dog whose temperament and trainability have made them excellent candidates for obedience training. Havanese are natural companion dogs: gentle and responsive. They become very attached to their human families and are excellent with children. Very affectionate and playful with a high degree of intelligence. These cheerful dogs are very sociable and will get along with everyone including people, dogs, cats and other pets. They live long lives, years , and possess a kind spirit. Havanese are gentle, kind little dogs that are ideal for owners who want a little buddy to follow them around. Havanese are responsive and friendly. They are intelligent, faithful, and devoted to their families. They are natural clowns as well. Havanese are affectionate and living to please. They are attentive, quiet and gentle, but still love to play. They will play tirelessly with children. Havanese require minimal exercise, making play sessions an easy outlet for their energy. The Havanese is a non-shedding, hypoallergenic double-coated breed with soft hair, both on outer and undercoat. Adult hair coat reaches 6 to 8 inches, and has a pearly sheen. The Havanese gives a rugged impression of a little dog, sturdy, and while a small breed, it is not fragile. Easy to obedience train, this curious dog loves to observe what is going on. The Havanese have a long reputation of being circus dogs, probably because it learns quickly and enjoys doing things for people. It is not their nature to bark a lot. Havanese are good watch dogs — making sure to alert you when a visitor arrives, but will quickly welcome the guest once it sees you welcome them. Havanese live for your every word and gesture. We know that the Standard sized Poodle developed first, and that the Miniature and Toy Poodles were developed afterwards, and all three varieties have a long history. An interesting hypothesis dealing with the history of any breed that predates written history, did the breed develop from a common ancestor, or did the breed develop because dog fanciers from different countries were trying to breed a dog for a particular purpose and function and, independently developed a breed of dog that had similar traits? The Mini, Toy, and Teacup Poodles are VERY smart, sensitive little dogs who make perfect pets for a less active person who has time to pamper these natural little clowns and be amused by their quaint antics. Well proportioned and squarely built, the Toy Poodle lbs was bred down from the Miniature Poodle lbs , and the Teacup lbs was bred smaller even yet. They are an intelligent breed with a good natured disposition and are very easy to train, the easiest of all the Poodles. Delightful and lively dogs, the Poodle makes an excellent family pet who will adapt to any situation and lives to please their master. Poodles are an efficient choice for the owner who wants an obedient dog. They are affectionate with their family, a little wary with strangers, but still accepting of them. They love to be around family and friends, and get along well with other animals and children. They hug better than any dog I have ever known! They come in any color, and have very curly, thick fur. Not only do they have an winning personality, but their hypoallergenic coat is non-shedding. The Poodle rates very high as a watch-dog. These dogs are highly alert and will let you know if something unusual is happening. Their Learning rate is also Very High. Obedience — Very High. Problem Solving — Very High. There are very few breeds that rate this high in everything. This is why the Poodle has been such a popular breed for so many generations! Poodles have a very long life span of 15 to 17 years. Well, I am going to explain here: When I began breeding the Designer Dogs, most folks were unfamiliar with the Havanese breed since they are fairly new to America. They have that wonderful sweet personality as the ShihTzu but do not have the flat face which contributes to teeth and sinus problems. I know that the ShihPoo mix breed is very hard to improve on -but nothing is impossible! It can be done with the HavaPoo! I spelled it that way on purpose! Even if you are dead set on a ShihPoo, you may want to highly consider the HavaPoo. You may not want to miss out on one of these wonderful, delightful little puppies! Sold Puppies. Life Span Did You Know? They are sometimes also called a Poovanese, Havanoodle, or Hanadoodle. This small dog loves to be around people and is the epitome of a companion dog. Although they are not recognized by the AKC because they are not a purebred dog, they are recognized by other dog registries. The Havapoo is a social dog that loves people and attention. They are known for their loving and affectionate personalities and playful antics. Oftentimes, Havapoos retain a puppy-like demeanor all of their lives. Because they tend to be open and friendly when well-socialized, they get along with children, other dogs, and other pets. Interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised as these are small dogs that can be easily injured by accidental falls or rough play. These traits make a Havapoo a good fit for single owners and any type of family. These little dogs may alert you with a bark if there is a stranger at the door, but they do not bark a lot unless they are trained into it. The Havapoo is a highly adaptable dog breed. Due to their small size and temperament, they are a good fit for smaller apartments as well as larger homes with yards. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. If you live in a climate with cold winters, you will likely need to put some layers and winter dog products on your Havapoo to help keep them warm. Although they may need to bundle up to stay warm while out on winter walks, they will still likely have a ball playing for a short time in the snow. Because these dogs are truly companions, they are happiest when they are around people. They do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also be prone to separation anxiety if they are not well-socialized or you do not work with them on it early on. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? A few potential health issues to be aware of in a Havapoo can include cataracts, deafness, hypothyroidism, Legg-Calve-Perthes disease, hip dysplasia, and patellar luxation. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The Havapoo is a highly trainable dog breed. In general, they are highly intelligent, attentive, sensitive, and eager to please. Although they do tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels, they can sometimes have a little bit of a stubborn streak, so novice owners should not be afraid to seek out puppy training classes. Due to their intelligence and attentive nature, Havapoos tend to pick up on things quickly as long as they are engaged. Keeping sessions short and interesting can help keep your dog engaged during training sessions. They will take harsh tons and corrections personally and it may damage your bond with them while also making training less effective overall. Their small size can also make potty training a challenge. Building a good routine, staying consistent, having plenty of patience, and using other house training tips to potty train your puppy can help you get there. Because a Havapoo is mixed with a Poodle, the coat colors vary widely, but the coat type is usually curly or wavy. Although their soft fur is usually low or non-shedding, you will still need to groom them regularly to maintain a healthy coat. Brushing them daily is usually sufficient to remove tangles and prevent matting. Professional grooming is recommended around every 2 months. Nails that are too long can get caught in things and make it painful for your pup to move around. Ears, especially those that flop over, can trap moisture, debris, and dirt, which can cause ear infections. Proper dental care for dogs can include brushing teeth every day, cleanings at the vet when needed, a special diet, dental chews, and more. Getting your Havapoo puppy used to having their mouth, ears, and paws handled early on can help make grooming throughout their lives a much easier process. Plus, if you reward them early on and keep it a positive experience, grooming tasks can help you build a bond with your dog and become a quality bonding time for you and your pooch. Havapoos tend to sit at a low to moderate energy level. Daily walks and some playtime are usually enough for this pooch. Their energetic personality also means that they will likely enjoy some extra activity as well. A trip to the dog park can be a lot of fun for a Havapoo. Once they are finished growing and are cleared for higher-impact activities, a short hike or even dog sports, like agility training , can all be good activities that are a lot of fun for a Havapoo. Most of the time, they will just be happy to be spending time with you. Because of their small size, they can tire out easily and overexert themselves. A fully-grown Havapoo usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Havapoos generally live for years on average. The Havapoo originated in the United States. Featured Havapoo Article. Puppies vs adult rescue dogs Havanese Poodle Mix Appearance Like any hybrid dog, the Havapoo can take on any of the characteristics of either parent breed. This makes it somewhat difficult to predict the exact appearance and characteristics of the Poodle Havanese mix. To add to the unpredictable nature of this hybrid, the size and weight of a grown Havapoo will largely depend on what type of Poodle the parent pup was. Likely Traits Generally speaking, I find that adult Havapoos are small to midsized dog, usually weighing in at between 12 and 45 pounds and measuring 8 to 15 inches tall. Poodles and Havanese dogs can both range from colorful patterened pups to plain solid colors, so pretty much anything goes with a Havanese Poodle mix litter of puppies. Havanese Poodle Mix Temperament The social instincts of the Havapoo are generally agreeable, but early socialization is important. These dogs will usually get along well with strangers and other animals, so long as they are exposed to new faces from a young age. A Havanese Poodle mix should get along well with children. Although I do advise caution with very young kids, for the safety of both the dog and the owner! Their loving, trusting attitude and small size does not make them a very effective watchdog. However, it also leads to significantly less barking than many other small breeds. They are also highly intelligent — both parent breeds are among the smartest dog breeds out there. The Havapoo will respond well to positive reinforcement training using treats and other rewards. And they can be very tuned-in to your emotions and attitude. Do your best to be patient and not raise your voice. Socialization Is Key While typically a friendly breed, the Havapoo can suffer from so-called small dog syndrome. Be sure to socialize your young pup early with other dogs, other pets, and humans. They enjoy frequent walks and ideally should have 1—3 hours of activity per day. Younger dogs tend to have more energy, and this breed in particular often mellows out after a few years. Havanese Poodle Mix Health This is typically a relatively healthy breed, with an average lifespan of 10—14 years. However, just like any other dog, a Havanese Poodle mix will inherit some of the potential health concerns of its parents. One common issue with both parent breeds is skin allergies and irritation. Proper grooming and diet can help reduce the likelihood of skin issues. The Havanese breed is also prone to some developmental abnormalities, including skeletal defects and osteochondrodysplasia. Eye issues are also often observed, and cataracts are common in older Havapoos. Havapoos are known to be prone to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation and related issues. As long as they are socialized early, they tend to get along great with just about everyone — from adults to kids to other dogs and even cats! Socialization from a young age is quite important with this breed. So long as you socialize your pup and raise it with love and care, it should make for an excellent family dog! Rescue Dogs We believe that every dog deserves a loving home, that said, there are some things to be aware of. This can lead to some behavioral issues, particularly with more aggressive breeds. Havapoo Puppy Breeders Most people looking for a Havanese Poodle mix will want a puppy to join their family. Search for a breeder that has an aim beyond money in mind when they produce a litter. Health testing and good care cost a lot a of dollars. But when you meet the litter and their mother, look at how she interacts with her owner. Does she have a strong bond and know her name? Is the breeder itching to tell you what a fabulous companion she is?

Optimal feeding amounts may vary according to your pet's temperament, activity level and environment. If you have any questions regarding your pet's health, please contact your veterinarian. Transition Instructions We recommend at least a 7 day transition before you begin feeding the new food exclusively. On the 7th day, you can feed the new food exclusively. All of our dry diets are preserved naturally with mixed tocopherols, citric acid, and rosemary extract. Our canned diets are naturally preserved and sterilized during the cooking and canning process. Where do the ingredients in Royal Canin diets come from? Royal Canin is making strides towards sustainability by attempting to obtain sources of raw materials as close to each manufacturing facility as possible. In some cases, we use international suppliers, because only those suppliers can offer raw materials that comply with our quality and food safety standards. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain by-products? Royal Canin chooses ingredients because they deliver high-quality nutrients that support our customized pet food formulas. Using chicken by-product meal instead of chicken meal for example will allow Royal Canin to maintain its highly customized nutrient standards while achieving a more secure and sustainable supply. Why do some Royal Canin diets contain grains? As always, we focus on the nutrients each ingredient provides and grains can provide many important nutrients. How do you ensure Royal Canin diets are safe for my pet? Our Quality and Food Safety systems are state-of-the-art and we continue to invest heavily in new technology to make sure they remain that way. We monitor every load delivered to our plants to verify the safety and quality of the ingredients we use to make pet food. We perform tests on finished pet foods before they are shipped to our customers. How do I know which Royal Canin diet is right for my pet? Based on size, age, lifestyle, and breed, each cat or dog has unique nutritional needs. For healthy pets, use our Product Selector to find the right diet for your cat or dog. If your pet is experiencing health issues, please refer to your veterinarian for more information. Your veterinarian will consider multiple factors when recommending an appropriate diet. With their flat muzzles, wrinkled faces, and curly-Q tails, Pugs are happy little dogs that can play or sleep all day. They can benefit from the right growth formula for immune system support, skin and coat health, and digestive care during the puppy stage. Royal Canin Pug dry puppy food is tailor-made nutrition created just for your purebred Pug puppy. This exclusive breed-specific diet is uniquely formulated for your Pug puppy, with the specific nutrients to help them thrive. An exclusive mix of antioxidants including vitamin E supports their developing immune systems and keeps their bodies growing strong. And high-quality proteins and prebiotics promote healthy digestion and optimal stool quality. Once your Pug is over 10 months old, transition them to Royal Canin Pug Adult dog food for precise nutrition into the adult years. Ingredients Chicken by-product meal, brewers rice, corn, chicken fat, corn gluten meal, dried plain beet pulp, wheat gluten, natural flavors, fish oil, vegetable oil, sodium silico aluminate, monocalcium phosphate, potassium chloride, calcium carbonate, fructooligosaccharides, sodium tripolyphosphate, vitamins [DL-alpha tocopherol acetate source of vitamin E , niacin supplement, L-ascorbylpolyphosphate source of vitamin C , D-calcium pantothenate, biotin, pyridoxine hydrochloride vitamin B6 , riboflavin supplement, thiamine mononitrate vitamin B1 , vitamin A acetate, folic acid, vitamin B12 supplement, vitamin D3 supplement], salt, hydrolyzed yeast source of betaglucans , L-lysine, DL-methionine, L-tyrosine, choline chloride, taurine, trace minerals [zinc proteinate, zinc oxide, manganese proteinate, ferrous sulfate, manganous oxide, copper sulfate, calcium iodate, sodium selenite, copper proteinate], marigold extract Tagetes erecta L. Guaranteed Analysis. Royal Canin Pug Puppy 1. They are relatively easy to care for, but they do require nutritious food that fulfils all of their health requirements. The Royal Canin Puppy Food for Pugs is developed with carefully-selected nutrients and contains a combination of digestible protein and prebiotics that promote strong and quick digestion. Other ingredients such as maize, rice, beet pulp, maize flour, fish oil, yucca extracts, yeast extracts, borage oil soya oil, and marigold extract add to the high level of healthy antioxidants in this dry dog food. Also, the kibble size ofthis Royal Canin pug puppy 1. On average, a 9-month-old, 8kg pug puppy needs around grams of this Royal Canin puppy food per day. Once your pug is 10 months old, you can switch them from puppy to adult dog food. Product Dimensions: .Made with high-quality protein and prebiotics that promote healthy and quick digestion. Supports your young pug's immunity and natural defences. Available in a 1. Ingredients dehydrated poultry protein, rice, maize, animal fats, beet pulp, maize flour, vegetable protein, maize gluten, hydrolysed animal proteins, fish oil, minerals, soya oil, fructo-oligo-saccharides 0. Typically orders are taking between working days to be dispatched. There may be occasions such as a stock availability issue or high orders volumes where your delivery may not arrive within 5 working days. You must order before 12pm for our business day s express and business days standard shipping. Most orders placed before 12pm will be dispatched the same day. Because of this, we are unable to offer delivery for the time being. We will update the site when this changes. UK mainland delivery charges.