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Choking Can German Shepherd puppies eat raw meat? A German Shepherd puppy can start eating raw meat and bones at about 12 weeks i. Can German Shepherds eat raw chicken? There are numerous debates on whether to feed raw or cooked chicken. Some doctors believe that feeding raw chicken to German Shepherds increases the danger of salmonella infection. Others argue that feeding raw chicken to your dog is completely safe and poses no or minimal chances of salmonella infection. They defend this theory by claiming that dogs and wolves are accustomed to eating raw meat and live happily and healthily in the wild. This breed, however, tolerates all types of chicken and most meat products. You may combine the chicken with some nutritious starches and veggies that are safe for your German Shepherd to eat. Is it safe to give dogs raw bones? Bones pose no health risk to your dog. They are, in fact, incredibly healthy and supply your pet with a lot of nutrients. Bones are rich in calcium and easy to chew and the flesh left on the bones is high in protein and other nutrients. Plus your pet will also get to enjoy the delicious bone marrow inside them. On the other hand, Cooked bones will not harm your pet, but they can easily splinter, which will cause digestive problems. When you initially offer raw chicken to your puppy, you may notice that it causes diarrhea. Benefits of raw meat for dogs While raw food is usually 98 percent digestive, processed foods are just 80 percent digestible. It means that fresh food is more effective in terms of delivering nutrients. Also, many people believe that a fresh meal consisting primarily of raw meat is more representative of what German Shepherds would consume in the wild. Furthermore, dogs that eat raw meat are healthy since their bodies are well adapted to such a diet and less prone to stomach disorders, which are widespread in German Shepherds. However, there are two commonly used methods: 1. It is mainly made up of raw beef, but it also contains additional ingredients such as vegetables and nuts. The aim is to deliver a nutritional value similar to high-quality commercial dog treats , use meals free of preservatives, and have higher absorption rates. The main difference between it and the BARF approach is that it does not need any plants. What raw meat can I feed my German Shepherd? A German Shepherd can eat practically everything when it comes to protein. Any bird meat is safe to eat. These give the protein, fat, and other nutrients required by a German Shepherd. According to most people, raw meats supply all of the nutrients and vitamins that a German Shepherd requires without being cooked. Cooked meat is also safe for your pet and is best when baked or boiled. However, bones should always be served uncooked to avoid splintering, which can cause digestive difficulties. Apart from chicken, your German Shepherd can eat other raw meat bones such as: Beef. Simple Guide To Feeding A Raw Diet Jun 01, Raw diets are controversial diets that are new to many people, but as old as the domesticated dog itself. Raw diets are gaining in popularity at a phenomenal rate. It's now at the point that raw diets can even be found pre-made at not only pet stores, but in the cold food and freezer aisles at grocery stores. Here's what you need to know about making your own. Dogs can get all the nutrition they need from the meat, organ and bones found in prey animals. Check the end of the article for foods to avoid. The PMR gets it's name from the fact that it mimics the contents of a prey animal by their meat, organ and bone content. To make raw feeding simple, keep it simple and relax. Again, keep it simple and relax. Simply feed more when you notice the weight loss. No need to panic. If you're switching from kibble to raw it's normal to be nervous, but exercise common sense and you'll be fine! What about sourcing food to keep things simple? You can buy in bulk at the grocery store, and talk to the butchers that are working in the meat section. You can also visit your local butcher, talk to local farmers; and even contact restaurant supply companies if you have the freezer space or a lot of dogs. Speaking of freezer space, buy a deep freezer. The bigger the better. You'll be glad you have extra space if you come across a good deal on lbs of meat and it'll make raw feeding easier! What should you buy to keep a raw diet simple? Simple answer: Buy what's cheap! Chicken necks and backs are very inexpensive, so are chicken quarters and livers. You can also buy whole chickens and cut them up. Avoid chicken that has "added salt solution. Chicken quarters, thighs, legs and necks with the skin can be fattening. You should trim the fat off if your dog isn't active or is overweight. Raw poultry bones are probably going to be your 1 source of bone. Pork is also cheap, but certain parts like pork bellies are very fatty. Pork necks contain a lot of edible bone. As far as beef goes, there are lots of inexpensive cuts of beef that are mostly for stewing and contain little fat. Cuts like sirloin tri-tip roast, top chuck roast, first cut chuck roast, top blade roast, bottom round roast, chuck shoulder roast and bottom round rump roast are inexpensive and good for the base of your dog's diet. Fish, especially oily fish are very healthy. Feed at least twice a week. Organ can be tricky to source. Many Asian and Latino food markets have organ for sale. You can also try local farms. Many simply throw out organ. If you can't find what you're looking for, many raw diet vendors exist online. You can have frozen organ delivered to your door on ice! Sourcing bone is easy. You'll do it by accident when feeding bony cuts of poultry mostly. Your dog's droppings will be much harder when feeding raw. This often results in healthier anal glands. If your dog's stool is too soft, add more chicken necks, feet, backs, pork necks, ribs etc to solve the issue. If your dog seems to have too much difficulty going, you should cut back on the bone. Now you know what to feed, how much to feed and even where to source your dog food, but here's where we make it really easy. A lot of people meticulously weigh their food and prepackaged and freeze a week or even a month's worth at a time. They balance each meal with an exact amount of meat, organ and bone and it takes hours! The secret is that not every meal has to be balanced. You don't weigh and balance each meal of your own, do you? Your diet balances itself out over time. You can do the same with your dogs raw diet. Instead of a lot of pre-packaging, simply thaw out 3 days worth of meat and bone and 3 days worth of organ. Just mix and match meals and let them balance over time. For example, on Sunday you could put 3 days of frozen chicken quarters, beef chuck, mackerel and calf liver in the fridge to thaw. Then you have meat ready to put in your dog bowls from Monday - Wednesday night. On Wednesday evening, you could put 3 days worth of goat meat, turkey necks and sheep kidney in the fridge to thaw. When it's time to feed on Thursday morning, add a sardine or 2 if canned, make sure they're canned in water , as well as a raw egg with shell to your dog's breakfast. Do the same Thursday, Friday and Saturday morning. That's 3 eggs and sardines from Thursday-Saturday 3 eggs a week are plenty. That also covers every meal from Thursday-Saturday. On Saturday evening, take out another 3 days of food and repeat. Now you're on an easy schedule where you don't have to bag entirely balanced meals for every meal of every day of the week. You've cut down your bagging from 2 or 3 meals a day per month meals prepped to 10 pre-packaged 3 day meals a month! Remember, just relax! I do suggest you start by weighing your food, but after a couple of months you'll be able to eyeball how much food is enough for each of your dogs. If you notice a dog seems to be losing or gaining a little weight, that's no problem. Dogs lose and gain weight very fast. Just feed a little extra, or a little less depending on the circumstances and you'll notice the difference in your dogs weight inside of a few days. Once you master eyeballing the amounts of food to feed and learn to eyeball your dog's weight, scales become unnecessary, which will save you more time and make things that much simpler. To conclude, I said that I would go over items to never feed. Wild pork and bear alike can contain parasites. Farmed pork in the US and Canada are safe. If you procure wild deer, elk, goose, rabbit etc, be sure to freeze it for 3 weeks. Also remember 1. No wild pork and no bear ever. Not even after freezing. It can contain a bacterium that's dangerous to dogs. Canned salmon and mackerel are cooked and perfectly safe. Farmed, raw salmon is also fine and usually comes from Norway. Fish, especially oily fish, are very healthy. Avoid fish with sharp spines and barbs, like catfish, unless they're removed. They are hard and will cause premature wear, or even breakage of the teeth. If the prey animal is bigger than about 10lbs, only feed the spine and ribs to be safe. No leg bones, pelvis etc. Please do your research so that you know what vegetables and fruits are safe to feed! Avoid cow's milk completely and limit cheeses and yogurts. Make sure yogurts are plain. Grinding up meat mixes the germs on the outside of the meat all throughout the ground meat. Also remember that ground meats don't contain bone unless otherwise specified and do not have the added bonus of cleaning teeth. Feed the leanest ground products possible. Thank you for reading. It's impossible to have a full, comprehensive conversation about raw feeding in an article. This is a guideline for those who are interested. I suggest you read books and source information from several authors and friends who feed raw to best educate yourself. Fruit Dairy These diets need to be well balanced to provide your German Shepherd puppy with all of the essential nutrients he needs to thrive. When can I start feeding my German Shepherd puppy raw? It would be ideal to feed raw to your GSD puppy from 12 weeks on, when they finish teething and their permanent dentition is fully developed. This can ensure they have teeth strong enough to engage in active chewing of bones and not just gulping it down. What are the benefits of a raw food diet for German Shepherd puppies? Feeding your German Shepherd puppy a raw food diet simulates the way they would have eaten before domestication. Because of this, there are several benefits you will see if you switch your puppy over to raw food. The gold standard diet is as close to the evolutionary diet of dogs and cats as is practically possible, is made from fresh frozen raw meaty bones, meats, organ meats, fruits and vegetables, minimally processed by mincing and freezing. The diet contains no added synthetic supplements, additives or preservatives. Raw food cuts out all of the processed food and additives included in commercially produced dog foods. The ingredients you give your pup will be completely under your control and natural. It would be boring, right? Dogs feel the same way. It will be something your dog looks forward to. Not only will he be getting the extra health benefits of raw food, but he will also be getting the excitement and flavor of different types of foods. German Shepherds have double coats. After all, GSDs are work dogs. Unfortunately, GSDs are susceptible to sensitivities. German Shepherds sometimes become allergic to gluten or common animal proteins found in commercial dog foods. They can get itchy, dry, and red skin from allergies either in their environment or diet. Raw food helps eliminate many of the causes of those skin irritations, leading to healthier skin. Also, you are adding many healthy fats and oils through proteins such as fish and with supplements such as nuts that encourage shinier coats. Many cheaper commercial dog foods use grains as a cheap alternative for protein. Carrots are rich in Vitamin A, an antioxidant and protector of white T cells. GSDs are prone to stomach sensitivities, especially to proteins such as beef, lamb, and chicken commonly found in commercial dog foods. By feeding raw, you can offer your dog alternative proteins to keep their stomach happy. This promotes more solid stools and fewer episodes of nausea and diarrhea. You can provide high-quality proteins with nutrient-packed organ meat and whole, raw vegetables packed with vitamins. Many cheap commercial dog foods fill their formulas with low-quality grains with little nutritional value, such as wheat sweepings. Many dogs, especially German Shepherds, can become sensitive to these ingredients, causing stomach issues. What are the drawbacks of a raw food diet for German Shepherd puppies? Coli and Salmonella, handling raw meat still poses a threat for humans. These bacteria can cause you to become very sick 1 to 10 days after exposure with the following symptoms : Stomach cramps Vomiting fever It is important to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw meat. It may seem obvious, but in the hustle and bustle of daily life, you may forget. You can use this video as a guide. If you choose to feed raw, it is important to prep each meal carefully because you are in charge of providing all of the nutrients your puppy needs to be healthy. This will include planning out the meals, purchasing the meats and foods, prepping the foods and meat, and supervising the feeds. If you want to get an idea of what the process of putting together a raw food meal looks like, you can watch this video: 4 Feeding a balanced raw diet can be challenging A balanced raw diet that contains high-quality meats is always ideal for your German Shepherd puppy. But is can be difficult to get the right mix when you first begin. The right ratios of muscle meat, organ meat, and bone, as well as the correct levels of vitamins and minerals, are critical to making a balanced diet. What kinds of raw meats are good for German Shepherd puppies? There are many raw meats you can feed your German Shepherd puppy. The best part about raw feeding is you can use literally every part of an animal, which provides the most benefit to your dog. You can feed your puppy the following raw meats: Boneless chicken. Faster nutrient absorption Weight management A BARF diet ensures dogs eat fresh, wholesome, and allergen-free foods, as no chemicals, additives, or fillers are used in raw diets. Raw Dog Diet Research Increased lifespan. Generally, raw-fed dogs are so much healthier. The changes are profound. A study on feeding practices in the United States and Australia indicated that .Lisa M. Freeman Freeman, a nutrition professor at the Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine at Tufts University, tells WebMD many benefits attributed to a raw food diet for dogs, such as a shinier coat, are the result of the high-fat composition of the typical raw diet. Ingredient contamination. Raw ingredients pose a higher risk of contamination with potentially harmful pathogens i. Coli that can sicken your pet and possibly be transmitted to humans. Feeding whole bones to dogs presents a risk of choking, broken teeth, intestinal obstruction, or internal punctures. Nutritionally unbalanced. Raw allergies. Dogs might be allergic to raw ingredients. Wash all meats, organs, and other raw ingredients. Buy raw products from reputable grocery stores or butchers with high sanitary standards. Raw bones. Avoid big bones and feed only raw bones that are small or ground bones. Never feed cooked bones. They become softer after cooking and are more likely to splinter when chewed. Speak with a vet nutritionist. They can provide nutritional guidance to formulate the best German Shepherd raw diet or recommend a raw dog food delivery service. However, after two weeks of storage, most samples declined compared to salmonellae. We also analyzed the price for the most popular meats. According to the U. It might be cheaper. Conversely, buying commercial raw-meat food over traditional kibble is a tad more expensive, but we think the health benefits and convenience are worth the price. Read our feeding raw dog food on a budget guide for tips on how to feed raw for cheap. Choose lean cuts. Raw meat is the main source of protein. Builds and repairs muscles and other body tissues. Needed to make new skin cells, grow hair, hormones, enzymes and more. Ground bones are the safest choice. Avoid heavy or big bones - They can break teeth or get stuck in the digestive tract. Provide essential calcium, phosphorous, and other essential nutrients. Great source of high-quality protein; vitamins A, B12, B6; folic acid; iron; zinc; and essential amino acids. Organs are a great source of vitamins and minerals. The more organs you add to the diet of your dog, the better the mix of nutrients your dog will receive. Fruit such as apples, cranberries, and blueberries. Fresh herbs such as parsley, basil, and oregano. Never feed toxic fruits or veggies Fruit provide antioxidants while vegetables have carotenoids, flavonoids, antioxidants, and many other phytochemicals that are beneficial to immune function and health dogs. It states every dog meal should have six indispensable nutrients to create a balanced meal that supports life and proper function in dogs. These include protein, carbohydrates, fat, vitamins, minerals, and water. No fruits or veggies. Always consult with your vet. Adding a multivitamin like Zesty Paws Multivitamin Chews ensures your German Shepherd gets the recommended balance of vitamins and minerals. For common GSD problems like osteoarthritis and other joint maladies, look for products containing glucosamine and chondroitin , which may help treat or prevent symptoms. Do you have a busy lifestyle with little time to cook for your pup? This company is the pioneer of raw dog food. They deliver Biologically Appropriate Raw Food straight to your door. Their formula is a balanced blend of raw meat, fruits, vegetables, organs, and bones. All of their ingredients are USDA-sourced. Their formulas are developed with the input of a veterinary nutritionist to meet the nutritional guidelines set by AAFCO. The body weight percentage method is the most straightforward alternative to many raw feeders new and experienced. Please consider his metabolism, activity level, lifestyle, health, and other factors to determine the perfect amount. Senior, less active, or overweight dogs weight loss : Feed 1. For a German Shepherd that weighs 65 pounds, here is how much raw food you would need to feed him daily. While some strongly believe that raw feeding is an unsafe way to feed dogs, others consider it extremely beneficial. Can German Shepherds eat raw meat? Yes, absolutely! German Shepherds can definitely eat raw meat. You just need to be aware of how to do it properly to ensure adequate nutrition and to avoid potential hazards. Benefits of Feeding Raw Meat to your German Shepherd According to the Animal Humane Society , a home-cooked and raw food diet is better only because it offers better digestibility. It only means that fresh food is more efficient at providing nutrients. Additionally, many believe that a fresh diet composed mainly of raw meat better mimics what German Shepherds would eat in the wild. Theoretically, because their bodies are adapted for such a diet, dogs that eat raw meat tend to be healthier and less prone to digestive issues, which are common among GSDs. It is mostly composed of raw meat but also includes other ingredients like vegetables and seeds. The key is to provide the same nutritional profile as high-quality commercial dog food, but through meals that have no preservatives and have better absorption rates. Its most distinct difference from the BARF method is that it does not contain any plants. Generally, a raw food diet poses the following risks: Malnutrition Commercial dog food is specifically formulated to give your pup a balanced diet. To avoid this, make sure you adhere to the recommended ratios for the raw diet method you intend to follow. Contamination Undercooked and raw meat can be contaminated with harmful bacteria like E. Always follow the same food safety protocols as you would with food for human consumption. Also, always source your meat from reputable establishments. Generally, you should avoid weight-bearing bones because those are hard enough to break teeth, cause choking, or even lead to throat or gut perforation. As long as you follow food safety protocols, feeding your GSD raw meat should be harmless. In fact, it could be a good way for your pup to get all the nutrition they need. Final Thoughts Whether you use it to replace their dog food or give as an occasional treat, your German Shepherd is very likely to enjoy raw meat. Salmonella Salmonella does not affect dogs in the same way that it affects people. A large percentage of healthy dogs will test positive for salmonella in their systems regardless of the food that they eat. It is a normal part of their GI flora and so they naturally excrete it in their feces and saliva. The majority of human salmonella cases come from ingestion and handling of dry foods and treats, and not from handling uncooked meats as popularly thought. So the real salmonella threat is to you, and not to your dog. And regardless of the food that you feed your dog, there is a good chance that it is already carrying salmonella. The people most affected by this are those who have compromised immune systems. So just remember to handle any raw meat that you prepare for your dog in the same manner that you would handle raw meat that you feed to your family. In addition to properly rinsing raw meat, be sure to disinfect counters, bowls, and any other surfaces that the raw meat may come into contact with. Also, according to the FDA , you should wash your hands for at least 20 seconds with soap and warm water after handling any raw meat and also the same before eating. Trichinosis This is a parasitic disease that is most often caused by eating undercooked pig or wild game infected with larval trichinella a parasitic worm. These larvae may, however, be killed off by heating, freezing, or irradiating the meat. While you can of course heat or freeze meat at home, irradiation is carried out in government facilities with x-rays, gamma rays, and electron beams. To effectively kill off trichinella by freezing, you must freeze raw pork meat for 3 weeks before you feed it to your dog. Toxoplasmosis This is caused by the protozoa called toxoplasma gondii. Though the vast majority of people infected with Toxoplasmosis will never show any symptoms if they have healthy immune systems. People most at risk are pregnant women and those with compromised immune systems. Infection from these protozoa can happen when raw meat is consumed, most often venison, pork, lamb, oysters, clams, and mussels. Infection can also occur from infected feces. Infection can also accidentally occur when not washing hands after gardening or eating unwashed fruits and vegetables from a garden. The risk of Toxoplasmosis can be avoided by freezing raw meat for 24 hours and again remembering to thoroughly disinfect all surfaces that raw meat may have come into contact with. Salmon Poisoning This can occur when feeding a dog salmon or any other anadromous fish fish that swim upstream to spawn , and it works like this: The fish harbors a parasite Nanophyetus salmincola , and in turn, this parasite harbors an organism Neorickettsia helminthoeca. The parasite is relatively harmless, but it is the organism that it carries which causes salmon poisoning and produces its harmful effects. And again here, freezing the raw fish meat will inactivate both the parasite and the organism. However, this requires some attention to detail to do properly. To effectively kill these off, salmon must be deep-frozen for at least 7 days. GI Parasites These parasites, which include tapeworms, roundworms, coccidia, and hookworms are often a concern for some people who want to feed their dog raw meat. So just make sure that you are not feeding your dog the GI tract of any animal, and this will ensure that he will not acquire any GI parasites. As long as you are feeding your dog USDA inspected meat, there is no risk of contraction. Food Poisoning Dogs can get food poisoning from eating rancid meat. Spoiled, rancid meat contains endotoxins that will kill just about anything that eats it except scavengers that are built to do this. If it smells off, it likely is off. On the other hand, wolves have been eating raw meat for millions of years. Even though dogs have evolved through the years to become tolerant of starches — corn, wheat, rice, potato, and other products in traditional dog food, their systems have not evolved to do so. There is a big difference between adaptation and evolution. Unlike evolution, adaptation is not a natural process, but instead a forced one. A reasonable alternative to raw meat is commercially manufactured raw dog food. You can feel safe that if you feed your dog raw dog food from a reputable manufacturer that it will not be exposed to the bacteria and parasites discussed above. Manufacturers of raw dog food use several different methods to ensure this: High-Pressure Pasteurization HPP : In this process, meat products are exposed to extremely high pressures. This pressurization inactivates or kills off microbial bacteria which makes the food sterile. Batch testing: Companies that do not want to use pasteurization use this method to test for the presence of harmful bacteria. This is the same method that the USDA uses to inspect the meat that is sold for human consumption. So this means that the meat is tested twice, which is a step above the standards that the USDA uses for humans! Inspecting the health of the herd that the animal came from: Research has shown that well cared for, stress and drug-free livestock shed significantly less harmful bacteria including E. Coli and Salmonella than feedlot cattle, which are often raised in stressful, inhuman conditions. The companies that rely on this method only purchase cattle from farmers who raise their cattle in an ethical, very health-conscious manner. Precautions when introducing your German Shepherd to commercially produced raw food Not all raw commercially available raw dog foods are properly nutritionally balanced. Because of this many dogs develop nutritional imbalances that can be avoided by purchasing a properly balanced food. A food must have a proper balance of: Antioxidants Vitamins Fatty Acids The key takeaway here is to not wait until your German Shepherd develops a nutritional imbalance before you realize the importance of giving him the proper food in the first place. Making this shift too quickly can cause GI problems like diarrhea. Also be aware that you should never mix dry kibble and raw dog food together. This is because the two food sources are metabolized differrently by a dog since raw foods are mostly protein and dry kibble is mostly starch. If all is fine, then increase the frequency of the raw food treats for a few days, and then go for an entire meal replacement. Repeat this process for a few days, and if all remains well then you are safe to switch over entirely from dry kibble to raw dog food. Final Thoughts Feeding your dog raw meat is great for your dog both from a nutritional standpoint as from a mental health point of view. Happy dogs are healthy dogs, and few things make a dog happier than eating raw meat! Just be sure that you take the proper precautions when preparing raw meat for your dog, and just use common sense. It seems many of us can relate to health problems we have encountered while feeding our dogs dried processed dog food. He is 8 years old, so an older dog, and I was told he may have cancer. Knowing this, I knew I had to focus on his bone health and at the same time stay away from all sugars and grains as cancer can feed on both of these. I also make sure to feed Boaz raw organ meats times a week. Organ meats contain nearly every nutrient including B vitamins, folic acid, minerals like phosphorus, iron, copper, magnesium and iodine. They also provide the important fat-soluble vitamins A, D, E and K. Also important is making sure that Boaz is getting vegetables into his diet. Every week in his own batch of broth, I include vegetables with dark leafy greens which he devours. The calcium in his diet is coming from the raw beef and chicken bones and fermented dairy of yogurt and cottage cheese. When feeding dogs bones, make sure they are always raw. Never feed your dog cooked bones of any kind as they can splinter and cause intestinal problems. For his essential fatty acids, I give Boaz a teaspoon every day of fermented cod liver oil and cold pressed flaxseed oil.

More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our next planned litter will be in Autumn, we have space on our waiting list for Coco and Hamish's beautiful puppies. Family run home breeders of Australian Labradoodles based in the Capital of the Highlands. We are passionate about breeding Multi-Generation Australian Labradoodles. Having achieved the top 8 star rating for best breeding practice awarded by WALA. Our goal is to breed healthy, happy, intelligent, Australian Labradoodles with low to non-shedding coats in fleece. The non-shedding fleece in the Australian Labradoodle are considered allergy friendly with a low doggy odour. The Australian Labradoodle is adaptable, intuitive and responsive to human emotions which makes them a great candidate for the role of assistance dog from medical alert dogs to therapy dogs. They get on well with children and love the company of their human family. They enjoy regular exercise. The Australian Labradoodle seeks out the company of their family and are happiest when they are with you as an active member of the family. Our Breeds Australian Labradoodle Australian Labradoodles were originally bred to be service and therapy dogs for asthma and allergy sufferers in Australia in the late s. Their outstanding temperaments and non-shedding coats make them a popular choice with families around the world. They are bred in three different sizes: miniature, medium and standard, and have a wide range of coat colours. They are known for being intelligent, trainable, happy-go-lucky, comical, gentle and excellent with children. Bernedoodle Bernedoodles were first bred in Canada to be excellent companion dogs in the early s. They are popular family companions in North America and relatively new to European shores. They result from crossing the Bernese Mountain Dogs with the Poodle. They are bred in a variety of solid and multi-combination colours, but are particularly known for the beautiful and much sought after black tricolour of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Bernedoodles are bred in three sizes: miniature, medium and standard. They are known for being smart, trainable, funny and affectionate. Sometimes, the Australian Labradoodle is used or infused instead of the Poodle and the resulting offspring are known as Australian Bernedoodles. I've liked the page. I remember Chewy from the website. He's gorgeous. Hopefully there will be something around next July but to be honest if it was earlier I certainly wouldn't complain. Do you take your dogs to a groomer or do you do it yourself? I was hoping to learn how to do it myself if possible. It might prove less hassle though getting someone else to do it. Also do you do the ear plucking or do you trim the ears? I'll stop asking questions after this ha ha. Although I live in Scotland both my dogs came from a breeder in South Wales Courtlands We got the first one there because both Tora and Lomond Hills in Scotland couldn't supply a puppy in the time scale we were hoping for. Went back to Wales for the second because we were so pleased with the looks and temperament of our first. I have since spoken to other owners who have purchased from both Tora and Lomond Hills and all spoke positively about their dogs and experience of both breeders. Regards grooming your dog yourself that is exactly how I felt and went to a local groomer who does training courses for people wanting to be full time groomers. I explained I only wanted to do my own dog and not start up a business and they took me on for a one day course, taught me the basics and I've done both of my ever since. I'm not as quick as a professional groomer but I can groom the dogs at a time that suits me, no leaving the dogs at a groomers. Can do it as often or as little as I want , cut as short or leave as long as suits. Would recommend it for anyone who is interested. The groomer I went to is in Lanarkshire, don't know if that is anywhere near you but you could always ask someone more local to you if they would do something similar.

We offer our site for all who love the breed. We are a small in-home kennel of quality French Bulldogs. All of our dogs live with us inside our home, and we treat them as family members, giving them a lot of care and love. The health, happiness and well-being of our dogs is our top priority. We — and our dogs — enjoy daily exercise and training to keep them in good mental and physical shape. However, showing and breeding the dogs is not our main business, but rather a professional hobby. We owned Rottweilers before we fell in love with Frenchies. We no longer have Rotties, as Frenchies are now our primary breed. We started with just one Frenchie, but as the saying goes, you can not just have one, or two, or three… and we love each and every one of our sweet little Frenchies! We are a Canadian Kennel Club registered kennel in good standing, breeding under their rules and regulations, as well as members of the French Bulldog Club of Western Canada. Breeding only to the official CKC standard , we believe a dog should be more than just pretty, it should be sound in body and temperament. We do all X-rays and health screenings for our dogs. Sometimes we have puppies for pet- or show-homes, and most of all for loving! Please take a look at our FaceBook Page as well, where you can find lots of photos of our Frenchies, as well as show results! Micro Chip About the size of a grain of rice, a microchip provides your pet with lifetime protection in the form of permanent unique ID that identifies your pet should they become lost. Lifetime Support Lifetime email and phone support for any frenchie related questions you may have. This is one of the most valuable bonuses we provide and we love assisting in any way we can. Transportation Although we prefer to have a meet and greet for you to choose your new little friend, puppies may be shipped via air, in the passenger section and accompanied by a pet nanny which we will supply. We will include a soft travel kennel that doubles as a bed, a cozy blanket and a water bottle. Without exception, our superior quality breeders have a mutual goal in mind: ethically bred, intelligent, non aggressive , aesthetically unique, and most important healthy, French Bulldogs. All pups come with health guarantees, as well as all Sires, Dams, and pups are DNA and health tested. As a micro breeder we get to focus on quality rather than quantity which has important advantages. All of our pups get our undivided attention from the moment they are born to the time they leave with you to their new happy homes. We believe these methods provide a head start on training and as long as you follow some simple training methods it will make it much easier to integrate your new fur child into your life. Ethics is knowing the difference between what you have a right to do and what is right to do and the time is always right to do what is right. Having a French Bulldog will bring infinite joy and laughter to your life almost everyday. Frenchie owners will agree there are countless ways their little faces and attitudes brighten up your life, sometimes in unexpected ways. All French Bulldogs are loving companions that require significant human interaction to thrive, so be prepared, this is not a set and forget dog. They NEED to be one of the family and should not regularly be left alone for long periods. Frenchies are perfect for small living spaces but they need to be temperature controlled i. In the winter months they should not be left out in the cold for long so …. French Bulldogs are great security guards and will alert you to strangers. The incessant non-stop barking for zero reason you see in some small breeds is rare for a Frenchie, this makes for a lot less complaints from any nosey neighbours especially in condos or apartments. For example, a well exercised pup tends to be a non shoe chewing pup which can be quite a valuable trait according to where you shop lol. From the moment they open their eyes Frenchies have very identifiable personalities, each with their own quirks and expressions that develop well into their adult lives. This can be said of most dogs, but the French Bulldog is a unique experience and once you share your life with one you will know this to be true. They love to play and roughhouse when they are feeling frisky, but are also more than willing companions to cuddle under a blanket on the sofa and binge watch your favorite Netflix series. Frenchies are freethinking, and intelligent but can be little rebels. Which one would think could be frustrating but it actually adds to their lovable personalities. Once these pint sized pups dig their heels in… a mountain is easier to move, so always keep training sessions on the short and fun side. Be firm, consistent and generous in your rewards and both of you will find the experience more than worthwhile. Male French Bulldogs average between lbs and inches tall. Female French Bulldogs are generally slightly more petite at lbs and range from inches. A short, smooth and easy to care for coat with an assortment of standard and rare colours to choose from the French Bulldog can be a showstopper and illicit everything from smiles to inquiries about where you were able to find such a unique looking dog. Vancouver French Bulldogs would be happy to connect you with one of our fabulous frenchies and answer any questions you may have. Happy Frenchie hunting!! I understand that I may unsubscribe from these communications at any time. Transportation can be arranged. All puppies are sold on pet only contracts. Mom and.As most of our families know we take so much time and.Click my Profile for more Ads to see more.Individual pricing!! Click my Profile for more Ads to see more available dogs. Willing to.Mom and Dad are the last two pictures. Mom and dad have excellent temperaments and are available for viewing. Mom is black and tan and dad is red fawn. Puppies are raised in our home under foot with our.Please Contact French bulldogs blues!!!! Victoria Ckc registered puppies ready to set foot in their forever homes beginning of September Dna health tested All puppies will be up to date on vaccinations dewormed and veterinarian health checked. I am pleased to learn of your interest in our exotic dogs. Thank you for considering adding one of our four-legged friends to your family. To provide you with more information and discuss.All ears are up! Socialized with other pups, and.He is vet checked Dewormed Microchipped Has his first and second vaccines Both his parents are ckc registered Parents are health tested clear.The only litter in Canada! Located in Ashcroft These pups will be like a miniature Alapaha.Male and female available. Each pet will come with complete health check Up to date on vaccinations.Decorative Throw Pillows for Couch Bed Sofa with Zip CoversAn easy fun way to add a pop of colour or bring new life to any room in your home or office is with these beautiful Animal throw pillows. Dress up your bed sofa or lounger with this decorative design art pillows. She is a good with kids and adults but has developed a reactivity to other dogs. She has a good grasp of basic.One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.We have 1 beautiful little girl left looking for her forever family. Pixie is a happy and healthy puppy with a lovely.Looking for forever home Born June 1st with two sets of shots Microchipped Up to date on dewormings He's got a beautiful lilac fawn coat! Free delivery in Canada.For fastest way to reach us Colors Couture Frenchies on fb. Or fill out questionnaire on our websites.Shipping by seller male French bulldog fully vaccinated Chilliwack Male French bulldog looking for forever home. Free delivery within lowermainland. He will come Vet checked. Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Mom and dad on site. More pictures of puppies and parents upon request. Vet health check, 1st vaccinations and de-worming ready to go this Wednesday please do.Please Contact her for more information. Hi My name is Marco!! First time being available. Excellent nature. Loves people and gets along very well with other dogs. Microchipped and shots up.Mother is blue, father is lilac, blue, tan tri Merle. We have both parents and the puppies have been raised in our home. They are friendly with all.Showing 1 - 14 of 14 resultsPage 1 - 14 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Pups come with 1st Shots, Dewormings, Full.His mom is an emotional support dog. His dad is owned by a senior and is her well behaved and easy going pet. I am pleased to learn of your interest in our exotic dogs. Thank you for considering adding one of our four-legged friends to your family. To provide you with more information and discuss.We breed for Health, Quality, and Temperament. We are a family based French Bulldog.Vancouver I am a year old but am all puppy. My mommy got me after having had her previous Frenchie stolen. New Westminster I have 2 males and 1 female purebred French bulldogs for sale. If interested give me a call or text and we can make a time that you can come and meet them. If your interested at that point I would.Vancouver I have a 10 month old pure bred French Bulldog for sale. She is a stunning girl and has a wonderful personality. We were going to keep her in our breeding program but don't have the space right now.Shipping by seller.

Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. The high cost of raising this breed is attributed to its pedigree, size, and availability. So, how much does it cost to raise a German Shepherd puppy? Although German Shepherds live between 9 to 13 years, the cost is pegged at one year since this is when puppies become dogs. This dog breed requires extra attention, training, and expenses. The cost of raising a German Shepherd puppy is determined, to a greater extent, by the initial price of the puppy. The higher the initial cost, the higher the cost of raising the puppy. Supplies Dog supplies are the next cost category for raising a German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy needs dog supplies for its daily needs for a comfortable living. While the leash is used for walks, the collar is for identification purposes. A dog bed: Your German Shepherd puppy needs a comfortable place to sleep and rest. You need a bed specifically designed for dogs. Food and water bowls: These are necessary to feed your puppy. Toys: These are important for mental stimulation and physical exercise. Your puppy needs mental stimulation for enhanced memory and problem-solving skills. Although German Shepherds are brilliant dogs, they are sometimes stubborn and can get on your nerves. For this reason, you must train them to be obedient and well-behaved dogs from a younger age. This amount covers the training materials, class fees, and certification. You can add more sessions as you progress and monitor how the puppy responds. Medical Expenses German Shepherd puppy One of your responsibilities as a German Shepherd puppy parent is ensuring that the canine is healthy. This includes regular check-ups, vaccinations, and treatments. Immunization: This is necessary for the prevention of diseases like rabies. Parasite control: It involves internal and external puppy parasite control. You should have your puppy spayed or neutered between six and nine months old. Food and Treats A healthy and balanced diet is crucial for the growth and development of your German Shepherd puppy. It also helps in preventing illnesses like obesity and food allergies. The cost of feeding a German Shepherd puppy varies depending on size, age, and activity level. You may spend nothing if you decide to groom the puppy yourself using readily available tools. The table below summarizes the cost of raising a German Shepherd puppy: Cost. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

The most common clinical signs of hormonal abnormalities are: Chronic chewing of the coat Excessive scratching Chronic licking Obesity Golden Retrievers that are overweight can also develop hyperpigmentation. In this case change in skin color will occur in areas around the legs, belly, and groin. Blueberry Belly In Golden Retriever Puppies In Golden Retriever puppies, you will more often notice a blueberry belly instead of a black belly, but the causes and symptoms are similar. Blueberry belly is common in Golden Retrievers, but if you notice other symptoms following the change in skin pigmentation, you should visit your vet. Conclusion As we see, many factors can cause a change in skin pigmentation of your Golden Retriever. Some are more serious than others, but all of them require appropriate treatment. He will then perform all the necessary testing to identify the underlying cause and determine the appropriate treatment. My faithful companion, Toby, is a Corgi who means the world to me. I'm passionate about building strong bonds with dogs and providing them with all the love and care they deserve. Some pet owners have reported seeing their English Creams with black bellies, while others have not. You may be concerned that it looks horrible and that something is wrong with your dog. You see, allergens, which can come in many forms, such as dust, pollen, or food, can cause inflammation in the skin. This inflammation can lead to hyperpigmentation, essentially an overproduction of melanin in the affected area. This overproduction can cause the skin to darken, resulting in the phenomenon known as black bellies. Now, one thing to keep in mind is that not all allergies will cause black bellies in dogs. However, if you suspect that your English Cream Golden Retriever may have an allergy, a veterinarian must properly diagnose and treat them. Allergies can cause a wide range of symptoms, including itching, redness, and skin irritation, so getting to the root of the problem is important. Once a diagnosis has been made, your vet can recommend the appropriate treatment plan, including medication, dietary changes, or other interventions. When a Golden Retriever pup becomes infected, its immune system kicks into gear and tries to fight off the invaders. One such symptom might be a darkening of the belly area. This can cause the skin to become discolored, especially in areas with thinner fur or more sensitive skin. It could be something as simple as shampoo, flea collars, or even pesticides. Allergic reactions to food or materials, like bedding or grass, can also trigger contact dermatitis in dogs. When a dog develops contact dermatitis, his body reacts by trying to eliminate the irritant. His skin may become red and inflamed, and he may itch and scratch more than usual. This can lead to secondary skin infections and, in some cases, darken the skin on his belly or other areas of his body. These abnormalities can lead to different physiological conditions, such as obesity, skin infections, and yes, even black bellies in English Cream Golden Retrievers. While endocrine disorders can be genetic, they can also be triggered by environmental factors such as diet and physical activity levels. When a dog is overweight, their belly fat can push against the skin, causing it to darken and giving the appearance of a black belly. This is especially common in dogs with lighter-colored or white fur, like English Cream retrievers. Preventing obesity is key to avoiding black bellies in your furry friend. This can be achieved by ensuring your dog eats a healthy, balanced diet and gets plenty of exercise. This makes it especially prone to bruising if they bump into something or have a rough play session. When a dog experiences bruising on their belly, the damaged blood vessels can cause the fur in the area to grow back darker than the rest of its coat. This can result in the black belly fur that some English Cream Golden Retrievers exhibit. In the case of English Cream Golden Retrievers, this leads to an excess of melanin in the belly area, resulting in dark spots or patches. This condition is often hereditary and can be passed down through generations. While it is more commonly seen in English Cream Golden Retrievers, other dog breeds can also be affected by Primary Hyper-Pigmentation. While having black bellies may not necessarily pose significant harm, it is vital to recognize that these marks can sometimes be an indicator of underlying health concerns. This stretching of the skin can reveal previously hidden pigmentation, leading to the appearance of black bellies. Although it might sound concerning, black bellies in senior dogs are usually harmless and not a cause for serious concern. Age can bring about various health issues, including skin infections, tumors, and other underlying diseases that could cause skin discoloration. It may be worth a visit to the veterinarian to rule out any underlying medical issues. This can lead to black spots on their bellies or other areas of their body. Additionally, excessive licking can be a sign of anxiety or stress in dogs, contributing to health problems. This can include regular exercise, mental stimulation through games and training, and providing them with plenty of toys to chew on. Steps You Can Take Many golden retrievers experience this condition, and it can be treated. Your vet will be able to diagnose the cause of the blackening and give you advice on how to proceed. Ensure good hygiene: Proper hygiene can prevent any infections from developing in the affected area. Make sure to wash your pup regularly with appropriate dog shampoo and keep their bedding clean. Ensure your dog food is on a healthy and nutritious diet. Opt for foods that contain sufficient nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids, vitamins, and proteins, to support good skin health. Exercise your pup: Engage your furry friend in daily exercise. This helps to improve blood flow and circulation, contributing to better skin health. Make sure to take your pup for walks, runs, or other outdoor activities that encourage good physical health and fitness. Be sure to have your veterinarian assess your dog for any potential health concerns that could be contributing to the problem. Your furry friend depends on you to keep them healthy and comfortable. By following these simple steps, you can help your pup feel their best and enjoy a happy and healthy life by your side. Labrador Retrievers and American Golden Retrievers can both have black bellies as it is a common color variation within the breed. Black Labrador Retrievers are known for developing black pigmentation on their underbelly, and it is not uncommon for American Golden Retrievers to have dark spots or patches on their stomach area as well. However, it is important to note that a veterinarian should examine excessive darkening or changes in skin color to rule out any potential underlying health issues. This includes regular grooming, exercise, nutrition, health screenings, and visits to the veterinarian when necessary. Catching any potential issues early on can help ensure the best possible outcome for your pup. Q: Should I be concerned if my dog has experienced hair loss or discoloration in their fur? While some shedding may be normal, significant hair loss or a change in coat color could be a sign of an underlying issue. In the meantime, give them some extra love and attention. Who knows, maybe a good snuggle session is all they need to get back to their normal, fluffy selves! Human shampoo, for example, can be too harsh for their skin and coat. Ensure your pup is eating a balanced and nutritious diet. Just like with humans, what we eat can impact the health of our skin and hair. So, feed your pup a quality dog food. Finally, avoid things that can be harsh on their skin and fur. This can include things like flea and tick medication that can cause dryness or expose them to too much sunlight without proper protection. Q: How can I find a qualified veterinarian for my pup? Finding a qualified veterinarian for your pup is important in keeping them happy and healthy. A good place to start is by asking friends and family if they have any recommendations or searching the internet for reviews of local vets. Finally, make sure that the vet has experience caring for your particular breed of pup. This will ensure that they are knowledgeable about any special health concerns or needs your pup may have. Final Words So, do English cream golden retrievers have black bellies? English cream golden retrievers usually have a creamy, light-colored coat and are not known for having dark spots or pigmentation on their bellies. However, they may vary in color depending on the individual pup. With proper care and attention, your furry friend is sure to bring you years of love and joy, regardless of whether or not it has a black belly! Check out all our favorite golden retriever products: Best Golden Retriever Products What Causes the Black Pigment to the Skin There are a number of things that can cause a darker pigmentation to the skin of your dog. Some of them are not a big deal, while others will require the help of your vet. Some of the most common reasons include: Allergic Reaction Your Golden Retriever could be experiencing issues with allergies , including grains and pollen. They will keep scratching the area that is infected because they are uncomfortable and this will cause some redness and scabs to appear. If you are worried about the scabs or the skin starts to go from red to a darker shade, it is time to go to the vet and see if an allergy is the culprit here. Your vet can help you figure out what is causing the allergic reaction so you can prevent the skin darkening throughout. This can also make your dog more comfortable. Bruising Some accidents, like a bruise or a cut, will affect the skin condition for your Golden Retriever. This will happen because some of the cells that are near the infected area will get affected, making it hard for them to properly work. Sometimes this condition will get worse even after the healing is all done. Cells that have undergone some damage will notice that they have alterations to their own structure, which can cause an excessive amount of melanin to be produced. This shows up on the skin as black to show where the injuries are sustained. Aging Older dogs are more likely to have skin that turns black and areas that have hair fall out. There are a number of reasons for this. The skin may be bruised and worn out after so many years. It could be that the Golden Retriever spent too much time outside in the sun, which could darken the skin. There are different reasons that this skin darkening will happen, but it is more likely to show up the older the dog is. Licking There are a number of reasons why your dog may be licking themselves. The problem will show up when the dog seems to constantly licking their bellies and paws. This is going to irritate the skin, causing some of the hair to start to fall off and the skin will darken. It may get bad enough that the skin starts to look black because a sore is developing in that area. You can try a dog bootie to help deter you dog from licking its paws. If the area is infected, it is going to be painful to the dog. Even if you notice that the skin is darkening due to the licking, it is important to talk with your vet to make sure that a skin infection is not the thing to blame. Your vet can also discuss some of the steps that you can use to prevent licking in the future. Skin Infections Certain types of infections in the skin could cause it to turn black. This is most likely to happen when the condition is contagious and it can spread from one pet to another. You may notice a lot of scratching before this occurs. If you do not take care of the skin condition, it can discharge a bad odor and form scaly and bad skin in that area. During the summer months when our Golden likes to swim he often suffers from skin infections. A bath with this anti-fungi shampoo usually does the trick to clear it up before a vet trip is needed. Visit your vet as soon as possible when you notice some of the signs of an infection. They can do a diagnosis to figure out what is causing problems and give the right antibiotics to help fight off the infection and keep your Golden Retriever safe. Primary hyper-pigmentation This condition is one that will make the area of the skin that is affected look brown and can eventually turn it to black. The area affected will be thick and rough and is often found in some of the hairless areas of the stomach. Over time, it can turn red to show that there is an infection and if the dog owner does not provide the proper care, it can lead to hair loss around that infected area. The best treatment is to have some soothing medication to help prevent some of the itching that shows up. Try an anti- seborrheic medicated dog shampoo to give you dog some relieve. Secondary Hyper-Pigmentation This is another skin condition that can cause the area to turn black. It is triggered more from inflammation on the skin. If the skin of your Golden Retriever is inflamed, there will be several other characteristics including pain, skin thickness, hair loss, a bad odor, and a lot of itching from your dog. This type of condition will happen when your dog has been affected by contact dermatitis, skin infections, hormonal abnormalities and obesity. Sometimes it is caused by a parasite. It is best to visit your vet when you see this to see what is causing the issue and what you can do to help prevent it. Both this and the skin condition above can be really serious. If you are concerned about this being the issue for your Golden Retriever, you need to get assistance right away. The only way to deal with them is with the help of your vet and they can provide antibiotics and other great options to keep your dog safe and comfortable. Never let these conditions continue on. Doing so will make the situation a whole lot worse. Can the Skin Color Go Back? This will depend on the dog and how long the skin condition went on. There are some situations, when they are caught early enough, where the Golden Retriever can get their normal skin tone back, or can at least lighten up some of the dark spots that are on their stomachs. However, there are times when the dark skin is here to stay and there is not much that the pet owner can do. Outside of looking bad and not being as attractive looking as the lighter skin, the darker skin will not be a problem, as long as you have visited the vet and completed your treatment for the dog. The dark skin may be around to stay for a bit. This is not going to harm your dog, as long as they got the proper treatment. If you notice the dark or black skin and have not given your dog the right treatment, then it is important to get in and see a vet as soon as possible. Final Thoughts If you notice that your Golden Retriever starts to have dark or black skin all of a sudden, especially if they have lighter skin to start with, then it is important you take them into the vet. This is often a sign that something is wrong. The sooner you can take your Golden Retriever in and get the situation under control, the easier it is on you and your pet.

Search Humanesociety. Although dogs make great use of their vision and sense of smell to explore the world, one of their favorite ways to take in new information is to put their mouths to work. Fortunately, chewing can be directed to appropriate items so your dog isn't destroying things you value or jeopardizing their own safety. Until they've learned what they can and can't chew, however, the best medicine is prevention. By setting your dog up for success, you can avoid having to replace your favorite chair or paying for an expensive visit to the veterinarian when your dog has ingested something dangerous. Understand your dog Puppies, like infants and toddlers, explore their world by putting objects in their mouths. And, like babies, they teethe for about six months, which usually creates some discomfort. Chewing not only facilitates teething, but also makes sore gums feel better. Adult dogs may engage in destructive chewing for any number of reasons, including as a coping strategy for stress and boredom. In order to stop the behavior, you must first determine why your dog is chewing—and remember, they are not doing it to spite you. They're bored. They suffer from separation anxiety. Their behavior is fear-related and chewing is a coping skill. Chewing simply feels really good. Top 10 pet tips Sign up to receive our exclusive e-book full of important information about caring for your pet, including training techniques and answers to frequently asked questions. Get Your Copy Teach what to chew Take responsibility for your own belongings. If you don't want it in your dog's mouth, don't make it available. Keep clothing, shoes, books, trash, eyeglasses and remote controls out of your dog's reach. Putting trash in a cupboard or blocking off areas with enticing items is the easiest way to prevent mistakes. Give your dog toys that are clearly distinguishable from household goods. Don't confuse them by offering shoes and socks as toys and then expecting them to distinguish between their shoe and yours. Supervise your dog until they are consistently chewing on appropriate items. Keep them with you on their leash in the house so they can't make a mistake out of your sight or only give them access to certain rooms of your home. Choose a "safe place" that's dog-proof and provide fresh water and "safe" toys. If your dog is crate trained, you may also place them in their crate for short periods of time. Remember, crates should never be used for punishment and should be a space where your dog feels safe. Exercise pens and baby gates are also helpful tools. Give your dog plenty of physical and mental exercise. If your dog is bored, they'll find something to do to amuse themselves. On the other hand, a tired dog is a good dog, so make sure they get lots of physical and mental activity. The amount of exercise should be based on their age, health and breed characteristics. While daily walks and other outdoor time are crucial to their well-being, letting your dog sniff will be more enriching than trying to power walk two miles without stopping. For dogs who enjoy the company of other dogs, a well-run doggy daycare can be an excellent choice for high-energy pups. Build toys into your daily routine. Instead of bowls, put their food in a puzzle toy or fill a Kong-type toy with their kibble. For more advanced chewers, cover the openings of the puzzle toy with canned cheese or peanut butter and freeze overnight before giving it to them. And be sure to keep a rotation of toys—novel items are way more fun for your dog than chewing on the same toy from last year. Keep some toys hidden and bring them out when you need to keep your dog occupied. If you catch your dog chewing on something they shouldn't, trade them for a toy that is appropriate. As your dog catches on to this idea, you can add the command "give" as their cue to release the object in exchange for the treat. If your puppy is teething, try freezing a rubber toy; the cold rubber will soothe their gums. As always, supervise your puppy so they don't chew and swallow any pieces. Make items unpleasant to your dog. Caution: Supervise your dog when you first try one of these deterrents. Some dogs will chew an object even if it's coated with a taste deterrent. Also be aware that you must reapply some of these deterrents to maintain their effectiveness. Don't chase your dog if they grab an object and run. If you chase them, you are only giving your dog what they want. Being chased by their human is fun! Instead, call them to you and offer them a treat. Have realistic expectations. At some point your dog will inevitably chew up something you value; this is often part of the transition to a new home. Your dog needs time to learn where and what the appropriate chew toys are. Take precautions and keep things out of their reach to set them up for success. Building and maintaining a positive, trusting relationship with your dog is the foundation of a happy life together! Q: We have a Labrador Retriever who is 10 months old. He has all his adult teeth, so he should no longer be teething. But he is incredibly destructive still — he chews up everything he can get hold of. What can we do? A: Among veterinarians, there's a saying about Labradors : "Chew till they're two; shed till they're dead. In the same way, what you're dealing with now is also normal for many dogs. Retrievers, especially, are known for their love of chewing throughout their adolescence, along with the lifelong fondness many of them have for carrying items in their mouths. Carrying things back — retrieving — is, after all, the job they were developed to do. To get a handle on the chewing, your family needs to limit your dog's ability to get to those items you don't want chewed. While doing that, offer your dog lots of chew toys to satisfy this healthy, natural behavior, and work on rewarding your dog for making the right choices when he chooses what to chew. You also need to make sure your dog is getting enough exercise — at least a half hour of heart-pumping activity every day to take the edge off his youthful exuberance. Your veterinarian can advise you on choosing healthy, safe chew toys, and there have never been more choices. One perennial favorite is the Kong , which can be stuffed with goodies such as peanut butter and broken dog biscuits to make it even more appealing. If you catch your dog chewing something he shouldn't, don't punish him. Really, the fault isn't his, but rather your family's for not supervising him better. Instead, transfer his attention to a favorite chew toy and then praise him for chewing on that. Expect that your dog's perfectly normal and healthy interest in chewing will continue for at least another year. 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! The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. She is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions if she has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care, where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. Many of our regular posters understand the issues of separation anxiety very well. Preventing Separation Anxiety If your older dog has a separation anxiety issues, consider a consultation with a dog behaviorist. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help. If you have a young puppy , you can help them to avoid developing separation anxiety. You can teach your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need similar treatment, and you can introduce them to separation gradually when you first bring them home. Now, what about chewing for pleasure? This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Chewing For Pleasure Chewing for pleasure is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove or prevent in your dog. What we do with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favorite shoes. However, most people give their dogs chew toys and then wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. How do we keep playing and chewing interesting, and save your long-suffering furniture from harm? A few other toys and distractions can work well. For most Labradors, that means food! Dipping chew toys in savory spreads like yeast extract or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. However, in my experience, even long-lasting chews can become boring after a while. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Toys, like the Kong, that contain food but make the dog work to get at it, are a useful distraction that can also stop doggy boredom. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then, as the most important part, freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing The Right Kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones and in black extra strong rubber for really strong chewers. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to preventing destructive chewing in the long term. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit or suffer from boredom or anxiety. In a way, a Kong is an iPad for dogs! In young puppies, you want to prevent those habits developing in the first place. In both cases, this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, you need to physically prevent the puppy from indulging in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a magic command or cue to give their dog that will prevent chewing in their absence. Dogs like the smell of feet and Labs love to carry shoes around, looking very pleased with themselves. One thing you can do is teach your Lab to bring your shoes to you and hand them over, rather than running off with them. We invested in a shoe rack for our front and back porches and taught everyone to leave their shoes there rather than in the hall or on their bedroom floors. If your bedrooms are upstairs you can insist the family puts their shoes in their rooms. You can then place a dog gate across the bottom of the stairs so your pooch has no access. This kind of strategy is especially important with puppies. Before we adopt our first dog, most of us are used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables. They will still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. You should remind the family to pick up stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Now, what about furniture? One solution is to block access to that particular room except under supervision. Again, a dog gate or baby gate works well. If you have an open plan home, you can buy extended systems that can literally divide an entire room Another solution is to try some kind of spray on dog chewing deterrent Using A Stop Dog Chewing Spray You can buy spray on repellents that will deter some puppies and dogs from chewing. These are intended to deter dogs because of the odor. You can try spraying it on your table legs and see if it works. It is alcohol free and you can even spray it on your furniture and clothes. Make sure you buy a spray intended for furniture rather than for spraying on dogs that are nibbling themselves. They can be effective, but there are no guarantees. Think hard about providing your dog with more company or mental stimulation as well as breaking the chewing habit with barriers or sprays. Bear in mind that some puppies and dogs seem indifferent to the taste of the spray and will happily carry on chewing wood even when it you coat it liberally in unpleasant substances! I would swear that one of my dogs chewed things even more! Accordingly, in many cases, dog gates are the best option if a dog chews everything. Baby gates are fine. If you are interesting in finding out more about this then check out our puppies and baby gates article. If you are going to crate your puppy, you need to do so for very short periods of time and leave the enough puppy suitable chew toys to occupy his need to chew while you are gone. Crates are also really useful in vehicles and can save you from a lot of heart ache. One small dog can run up a very large bill when left alone in the interior of a car for a few minutes. Many years ago, my young Labrador ate through both the passenger and driver safety belts in our Landrover when we left him alone for less than twenty minutes. That was a very expensive lesson for us as a young hard-up couple. Using a crate in the vehicle is often a better solution, at least until your Labrador has got past the chewing stage. Check out our Travel Crates For Labradors section for detailed reviews. One problem that often crops up is puppies destroying their own bedding. What About Puppy Bedding? People often ask me what they can do about their puppy chewing up his own bed. This is a tricky one. None of us wants to see a puppy without a bed, but if your puppy is tearing lumps off his and swallowing them, you are going to need to remove it for a while. You can heave a sigh of relief and put away your gates and your bitter spray. If you are thinking about putting away your puppy crate, be aware that it is very tempting to de-crate big dogs too soon. This is because large dogs need large crates, and these crates are an unsightly nuisance in all but the biggest houses. Some will continue until they are around two years old. So, a little patience is required. Remember to be very generous with those frozen Kongs during the de-crating process, and for the next few months. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. 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. Habit Dogs that chew when they are bored We all have different boredom thresholds, dogs are no different. Some dogs are quite happy to do very little for hours on end, others, not so much. Labradors are intelligent, sociable dogs, and are particularly prone to boredom if left alone for long periods. One way of relieving boredom, if you are a dog, is to chew things up! Chewing as a means to relieve anxiety Ideally, all dogs need to learn to spend time alone from puppyhood onwards. A well adjusted adult dog is then happy to be left from time to time, and will simply sleep when you are gone. Dogs which are not taught to accept some periods of solitude in puppyhood, dogs which are left alone for far too long, or dogs that have had traumatic experiences when left alone may develop a disorder called separation anxiety. A dog which becomes very anxious when left, may resort to destroying your possessions, or even the fabric of your home, in order to relieve his anxiety. Which brings us to the point that the act of chewing is in itself, is very pleasurable and calming to many dogs. Dogs chewing for relaxation and pleasure There is no doubt that many dogs simply chew for fun. It relaxes them, and makes them feel happy. The problems arise, when that chewing activity is directed at the wrong items — your items! Relaxation chewing is particularly common in Labradors and other retrievers. This is probably partly because we have bred them to enjoy having things in their mouths. Unusual causes of dogs chewing Occasionally a dog will start chewing because he has some kind of medical problem. This is more likely to be the cause if the chewing starts quite suddenly in an older dog that has never had a chewing problem before. Is my dog hungry? Eating is a fairly transient affair for most Labradors in any case, so you can never hope to prevent chewing by giving your dog something to eat. Is chewing a habit? Like many other stress busting or pleasurable activities, chewing can become a deeply ingrained habit. Habits can be difficult to change and breaking a habit may involve physically preventing your dog from parts of your home. What about punishing dogs for chewing? There are a number of problems with punishment in general, but punishment for chewing is especially problematic. Many Labradors are quite attention seeking, they have been bred to work closely with their human partners and being together, is very important to them. Behind your back Most destructive chewing in older dogs goes on behind your back, or when you are out. Punishment can sometimes be a way to teach your dog not to chew things in front of you. It is however nigh on impossible to teach a dog not to chew things in your absence. Punishment only works, if it occurs during the bad behaviour. Effectively, all punishment does, is teach your dog to be more sneaky about chewing. Staying friends with your puppy Remember also, that punishing a puppy will not prevent him chewing — he needs to chew and chewing is completely normal and natural for him. What punishment will do, is make your puppy afraid of you. The first step is to make sure you have removed the causes of chewing that can be avoided. Preventing your dog being bored Labradors need plenty of exercise and some company. In many homes, everyone is out at work all day, and young dogs can get very bored when left alone for long periods. Try to give your dog a good long walk before you leave for work, and arrange for someone to come in and take him for another walk part way through the day. He is more likely to relax and sleep rather instead of dismantling your sofa cushions, if he has had enough exercise. If your day is a very long one, consider sending him to doggy day care where he will enjoy the company of other dogs while you are at work. Combining a dog with full time work can be challenging and you may need some extra help. They will be able to assess your dog in his home environment and give you a plan to help him. If you have a young puppy, you can avoid separation anxiety developing by teaching your puppy to cope with being alone for short periods of time from an early age. Check out my click for quiet article for more information on helping puppies that cry when you leave them. And keep separations very short to begin with. Make sure that puppies left alone for more than a minute or two, have something appropriate to occupy them. Rescue dogs may need to be treated in a similar way, and introduced to separation gradually, when you first bring them home. Chewing for pleasure Of course there is one cause of chewing you cannot and should not try to remove, or prevent in your dog, and that is chewing for pleasure. What we do instead with dogs that like to chew for pleasure, and that includes all puppies, is redirect their chewing onto something more appropriate than your favourite shoes 2. This means redirecting his chewing activities onto sensible alternatives. Most people give their dogs chew toys. And wonder why he prefers to gnaw on the table legs. The fact is, most chew toys are rather boring. The ideal chew toy To really make chew toys appealing you usually need to add something interesting. And for most Labradors, that means food. Dipping chew toys in savoury spreads like marmite or peanut butter can help extend the pleasure time, but not for long. The answer lies in the wonderful Kong toy. In fact what you need is not one, but several Kongs. Why Kongs help stop Labradors chewing your things The kong is a hollow, tough, rubber toy that most dogs cannot destroy. The Kong Extreme is especially sturdy and great for very aggressive chewers. Your job is to fill this hollow centre with something delicious and then this is the important part freeze it solid. When you leave your puppy or young dog alone or unsupervised for long — give him a frozen Kong first. This will keep him happy for quite some time. Choosing the right kong You can get Kongs in puppy sizes for little ones, and in extra strong rubber black for really strong chewers. The red ones are suitable for most adult Labs. Kongs are not the cheapest toy, but they are an indispensable aid to the long term prevention of destructive chewing. This is especially important with dogs that have an existing chewing habit, or suffer from boredom or anxiety. What next? Avoid or break bad habits The final step in the plan is to break any existing bad chewing habits, and in young puppies, to prevent those habits developing. In both cases this is a physical issue. When it comes to avoiding or breaking bad habits, it means physically preventing the puppy from being able to indulge in them. Some people struggle with this. They are hoping for a command or cue to give their dog, that will prevent chewing in their absence. Putting things away Before we have our first dog, we are all used to being able to put things down on the floor or low tables, and for them to still be there when we come back. If you leave the TV remote on the chair, your puppy will pick it up. The best way is to prevent your puppy having access to rooms with important items in them, and to teach yourself and your kids to pick up your stuff in rooms where puppies have free access. Repellent sprays You can buy spray on repellents that will put some puppies off chewing. You can try spraying it on your table legs and so on. Bitter apple spray is a popular one , and it does work, for some dogs. Sadly not for all. Some puppies and young dogs seem indifferent to the taste and will happily carry on chewing your furniture or baseboards, even when liberally coated in unpleasant substances! A more effective solution, and one that is particularly suitable for puppies that are not yet fully house trained, is physical exclusion. Upstairs for example. I want to support as many people as possible through this chewing and biting stage, so this article will help you understand why your puppy is chewing and help minimise the stress, bringing you a step closer to a well-mannered puppy. Dogs use their mouths just like human toddlers use their hands to explore and experiment. Most Labradors simply want to know if they can play with it or eat it, and using their mouth help them find out those answers. As a general rule, if your dog has an hour of play and excitement, try and conclude that with an hour of peace, quiet rest and relaxation. It will allow them to recharge their batteries and prevent less desirable behaviour from taking place. When your puppy is teething, they have that same discomfort but multiplied by about .Chewing can be a coping strategy for puppies suffering from anxiety and stress. Chewing, licking and sniffing are things that will help a Labrador remain calm and relaxed. Also, pain is a massive part of why dogs chew and bite. If your dog is suffering discomfort somewhere in its body, you might start to notice it showing itself in chewing behaviour. Puppies learned behaviour and habits will influence their desire to chew and nip. Finally, lots of Labradors chew because of boredom. But what they can do is chew the skirting board or nip the kids to prompt a response. Now that you understand why your Labrador needs to chew, you can start to help them through this stage. Our other blog articles explore the teething stages in more detail and help you minimise undesirable behaviour. If chewing and biting is a problem, check them out. If you are finding it tough, please reach out to us. Be caring — Be consistent — Be their teacher If you need more targeted support, why not check out our Online Puppy School or Foundation Skills programme. Search for:.

The mix will vary from pup to pup depending on which of their parents they take after. Sheepadoodles enjoyed a massive boost in popularity when Meryl Davis and her partner Fedor Andreev, both figure skaters, showed off their pet Sheepadoodle, Bilbo Tootie-Rose Baggins on social media. They inherit the best of both parents, making for a remarkable pooch! More about the Poodle Poodles were extremely popular as pets in the past, especially for upper-class ladies. This was due to the small Poodle size which meant that carrying them around was incredibly easy. Interestingly, they were first bred in Germany to help hunt waterfowl. Their popularity has led many dog breeders to conduct experimental crossbreeding, and one of those successful breeding programs was with the Old English Sheepdog a. Poodle More about the Old English Sheepdog Just like the name suggests, Old English Sheepdogs became popular in the s with farmers who used them to herd sheep and to help control other animals on the farm. For centuries training was for rather heavy tasks around the farm. Sheepadoodles have a fascinating history, as do their parents! But why this combination? As mentioned above, first generation Sheepadoodles inherit the intelligence and active nature of sheepdogs, and the low shedding and friendly nature of the Poodle. They can be very gentle and also tend to be quiet around little ones, which is an excellent trait, especially if your baby needs a nap! The perfect pooch indeed! Thankfully not. Even though they are large, you can make it work. If you live in an apartment, you might be pushing it, but if you commit to some serious exercise every day your new furry friend will be just fine! Standard Sheepadoodles are usually medium to large. As mentioned above the standard-sized Sheepadoodle grows to about 60 to 80 pounds 18 to 30 Kg and a maximum of 16 to 22 inches 40 to 55 cm in height. Sometimes, if the Sheepdog parent is huge, then the Sheepadoodle pup can grow quite a bit larger than other pups. One example is Zammy the therapy dog, which you can watch in this video: Also thrown into the mix are Mini Sheepadoodles that are a mix of Mini Poodles and Standard Sheepdogs. They measure under 20 inches 51 cm in height and weigh between 24 to 44 pounds 11 to 20 kg. Miniature Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called a Micro Sheepadoodle. Mini Sheepadoodles are in demand far and wide due to their utterly adorable good looks and charismatic charm. Mini Sheepadoodle 5 Hey Good Looking! Sheepadoodles have sturdy and solid builds, with square or rounded faces and elongation at the snout. The skull has a broad look and appears dome shaped. They also have signature gorgeous low hanging ears, and their eyes are small and set between medium length hair. Coats can be anywhere between straight and curly. Their different colors also make them a hit with potential owners. Sheepadoodles are born black, white or both. Their colors are separated in well-defined spots that can appear randomly on any part of the body. This makes for some adorable looking puppies, some of whom almost look like Panda bears, which make them even more endearing than they already are. Some Sheepadoodles come in white and red, but these usually cost more. There are also Sheepadoodles that are entirely brown or grey, but these are relatively rare. The parents normally determine the color of the pups. As mentioned in the first paragraph the Sheepadoodles have an average lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. How healthy are they? In general, the Sheepadoodle is a robust dog since it comes from two different purebred dogs. However, they may inherit some tendencies from their parents genetically. However, not all Sheepadoodles are hypoallergenic as it depends on the genes they inherit from their parents. They tend to have a short and curly coat like their Poodle parent and as we said before shed very minimally. Trimming the hairs around their ears is also another thing you can do if you want to help prevent ear infections. Watch how training takes place in this video: They can also be taught to be watchdogs as they can recognize strangers and be trained to bark at them. Training is pretty simple and easy to carry out. Sheepadoodles should have a diet that consists of high-quality kibbles. Once in a blue moon, some wet food is a great idea but take it easy on this one as it may lead to your Sheepadoodle becoming overweight. However, being a designer dog, they are allowed into the following organizations:. Sheepadoodle Highlights Sheepadoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Old English Sheepdog or Poodle parents. The main colors of Sheepadoodles are a mix of black and white, but they can also be solid black and, in some cases, gray. Sheepadoodles tend to be a great choice for allergy sufferers since this mix is considered a low to non-shedder. They will need to be groomed roughly every eight weeks and must be brushed two to three times a week. Sheepadoodles will need daily walks and games of fetch for exercise. These smart pups will also need to play mentally stimulating games to prevent them from being destructive due to boredom. Their ability to emotionally connect with their owners has made the Sheepadoodle a popular therapy and emotional support dog. However, their need to be around their owners so much makes it difficult to leave them home alone for long periods of time, and they may require a dog walker or doggy daycare. Sheepadoodles are affectionate and even-tempered with children and are just as happy being around kids as they are being around adults. Sheepadoodles get along well with other animals if introduced gradually, calmly, and at an early age. They are naturally intelligent and very social animals and will enjoy the company of other pets in their household. Even though the Sheepadoodle got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the right mixed breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Sheepadoodle rescues, or check with breed specific Poodle or Old English Sheepdog rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Sheepadoodle Size As the Sheepadoodle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That being said, the Old English Sheepdog parent can be mixed with a standard, miniature, or toy poodle parent, which will affect their size. Seeing as the most common Sheepadoodle pup is one with a Standard Poodle parent, you can expect the dog to be on the larger side. Most Sheepadoodles weigh in at 60 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 22 inches at the shoulder. That said, the other varieties like the toy and mini Sheepadoodles, will be smaller in size. They will enjoy snuggling with you on the couch just as much as they would enjoy going outside for a brisk walk. Some Sheepadoodles will have acquired their herding drive from their Old English Sheepdog parent and will need to burn off energy with plenty of playtime outdoors. They are rather athletic and love to swim, play fetch, and please their owners by learning new tricks. Sheepadoodle puppies are often a bit boisterous and will require training at an early age. Both Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs are known to be very intelligent breeds, making the Sheepadoodle easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement and treats as rewards. These obedient dogs will also love to be taught a variety of tricks, especially because they need to be mentally stimulated. Their ability to emotionally connect with their owners has made the Sheepadoodle not only a very loyal companion, but they have become a popular therapy and emotional support dog. They adore children and adults alike, and will quickly become a wonderful addition to any family. However, their need to be around their owners so much makes it difficult to leave your Sheepadoodle home alone for long periods of time, and they may require a dog walker or doggy daycare. Sheepadoodle Health The Sheepadoodle may be a mixed breed, but they are still predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Poodle and Old English Sheepdog face. While most are generally healthy, many can inherit conditions that both parent breeds have, which is why it is very important to maintain good care and attend regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Sheepadoodles suffer from include: Bloat. In addition, it can also affect skin pigment and produce blue or unique-colored eyes. This is characterized by a base color often lighter than black, such as grey, brown, or red. The stripes themselves can range from black to cream. A full-grown Old English Sheepdog and Poodle mix stands between 18 and 27 inches tall, regardless of gender. Their size is also affected by whether they came from a standard Poodle or a miniature Poodle parent. Standard male Sheepadoodles can weigh anywhere between 60 and 85 pounds. Females, on the other hand, are measured at 50 to 75 pounds. However, they will complete their development at 24 months since most medium to large breed dogs grow slowly. The final weight and height of a Sheepadoodle will still depend if they are classified as standard, miniature, or toy Sheepadoodles. For reference, a full-grown mini Sheepadoodle has a height of 10 to 15 inches and can weigh between 10 and 15 pounds. Like their regular-sized counterparts, mini Sheepadoodles also experience early growth spurts and will gradually reach maturity between 7. Shepadoodles make excellent family pets because of their affectionate nature. In fact, they are just as much a big softie as they look. These fluffy dogs are great at reading human emotions and adapting to them, making them perfect companions for children and people looking for sensitive and loving breeds. They love cuddling and simply tailing members of their pack, so these pooches do not do well with being left alone for extended periods. They develop destructive behavior which is difficult to correct in the long run. In addition, they are even-tempered and can get along well with both children and adults, as well as other dogs and house pets. Sheepadoodle has acquired a high level of intelligence and energy from its Old English Sheepdog parent. Meanwhile, it has gotten the friendly disposition and eager-to-please nature of Poodles. With these traits, Sheepadoodles are ideal pets for families with small children who need constant companionship and playmates since the pooches can match their need for stimulation and high-energy activities. Male vs. Before finalizing your choice to get a Sheepadoodle, you should first consider which gender is right for you. Keep in mind, however, that one gender is not better than the other. The choice of whether to get a male or female Sheepadoodle relies on your personal preference and lifestyle. Male Sheepadoodles are more family-oriented. On another note, female Sheepadoodles are more independent. Although, these pooches are more protective, especially of their young and your children, by extension. They are very task-oriented and would like plenty of exercise or mental stimulation. As discussed before, Sheepadoodles are healthier than typical purebred dogs because they have acquired hybrid vigor. If well taken care of, Sheepadoodles could live up to 12 to 15 years, unlike other larger dogs! Like other dogs, however, they are still susceptible to certain health problems, especially ones that are more prone toward the breed. Here are some health issues that your Sheepadoodle could acquire down the line: Bloat: Bloating or gastric dilation-volvulus usually occurs among breeds with deep chests, such as the Sheepadoodle. This hormone is responsible for stress response, weight control, and anti-infection. Therefore, an excessive amount of it could be life-threatening, especially among older dogs. Certain dog breed types such as Poodles, Sheepadoodles, Bearded Collies, and Retrievers are more prone to acquire this disease. Hip Dysplasia: Hip dysplasia is a growth deformity that happens when the hip ball and socket do not fit properly. In looking after the health of your Sheepadoodle, always remember that prevention is better than cure. If you see that your puppy exhibits any of the diseases above, bring them immediately to the vet. If you want your Sheepadoodle to grow up healthy and happy, be sure to provide them with the best possible care. Here are some aspects of their well-being that will need attention: Food and Diet Sheepadoodles tend to eat very quickly. As a result, they are prone to gaining excessive weight. Given their active nature, a matured Sheepadoodle will require 1, calories per day. As a pup, they will need more nutrients and a heavier calorie intake of 2, per day. You may opt to feed your new pooch kibble, meat, or canned food. Cleaning and Grooming Whether your Sheepadoodle takes more after its Old English Sheepdog or Poodle parent, you will need to brush their coat three to four times a week. This ensures that the coat is tangle-free and clear of dirt and debris. You may have their hair clipped once every quarter to prevent matting and their nails require trimming once or twice a month with the help of a professional groomer. Training and Exercise Without proper exercise and daily play, Sheepadoodles may become obese. This dog breed needs constant activity to maintain its healthy weight. Young Doodles will benefit best from an hour or two of exercise, be it in the form of a few walks around the block or several games of fetch. These sessions should be broken down into several sessions a day to avoid overworking the pup. Furthermore, your Sheepadoodle can be taught basic discipline and commands at 8 to 10 weeks old since they are effortless to train. Some of the commands and tricks you can teach them are housebreaking, sitting, heeling, staying, shaking hands, and finding hidden treats. How Much Does a Sheepadoodle Cost? This should already be expected since they are designer dogs that are currently in high demand, and they resemble a teddy bear. On top of that, they are also harder to breed. To give you an idea, here is an estimated initial cost of the Sheepadoodle breed ownership: Type of Expense. They've become more popular in recent years because of their super-friendly personalities, low-shedding coats , and teddy bear-like appearance. Because the sheepadoodle is not a pure breed, there are no hard and fast rules about the dog's size, coloring, and appearance. However, the most common coat you'll find is a black-and-white patchwork pattern. The size of a sheepadoodle varies depending on whether the Old English sheepdog was crossed with a standard poodle , miniature poodle , or toy poodle. Appearance The sheepadoodle can tend toward one parent or the other in appearance—some will have more of the square face of an Old English sheepdog and others will have a more poodle-like domed head. But nearly all sheepadoodles share the patchwork of black and white markings that sometimes give them the appearance of a panda. These black and white markings can sometimes fade into gray similar to an Old English sheepdog's coloring as the sheepadoodle ages. On rare occasions, a sheepadoodle will be red and white. Sheepadoodles bred from mini poodles and toy poodles will be smaller. As with most poodle mixes affectionately termed "doodles" , the coat of a sheepadoodle can tend more to be straight or more curly—and it's generally hard to tell until the puppy gets a little older. Sheepadoodles are often compared to Bernedoodles , which are a mix between a poodle and a Bernese mountain dog. Bernedoodles have a similar giant teddy bear vibe: big fluffy paws; shaggy faces; and furry, floppy ears. However, Bernedoodles come in a greater variety of colors and share more of the Bernese mountain dog's personality traits. Temperament The sheepadoodle owes a lot of her easygoing temperament to the Old English sheepdog, a good-natured, shaggy breed that was developed to help bring cattle and sheep to market. Because of this cross breeding, there can be a pretty wide variety of personality traits depending on the individual dog. They're exceptionally playful and sweet, and they enjoy the company of other dogs. While they might alert you to a passing stranger with a bark , they're typically a little more mellow than breeds developed specifically for guarding the home. While Old English sheepdogs can at times be independent-minded, poodles are typically very eager to please their parents by sitting on cue and learning tricks. Sheepadoodles also inherit a great deal of intelligence from their poodle forebears and have a working dog's herding instincts from the Old English sheepdog side. Living Needs Unless you opt for a mini or a toy mix, sheepadoodles are typically large dogs that will do best in a house with a fenced yard. If you live in an apartment , you should be ready to provide your sheepadoodle with regular exercise. She recommendss finding ways to integrate your dog into your regular activity: bringing them on your runs , neighborhood walks , and hikes through the woods. With their thick coats, sheepadoodles are excellent dogs for cold-weather climates. In warmer climates, Choczynski Johnson says, their owners can trim their fur a bit shorter and make sure they can relax in cool indoor spaces with plenty of water. However, given the sheepadoodles' herding background, they occasionally have a tendency to try rounding up small animals and children, so keep an eye on them at dog parks that allow small dogs and large dogs to mingle. Care While no dog are fully hypoallergenic , the combination of the Old English sheepdog and the poodle results in a very low-shedding coat, even in the first generation. Because of this, sheepadoodles can be a good fit for people who are allergic to dogs. For sheepadoodle grooming, you'll want to keep her coat in great condition, brush her frequently during the week , and have her bathed and trimmed every 8—12 weeks. You'll want to clean her ears regularly of wax and debris and trim her nails , as you would for any dog. Because they become so attached to their families, some sheepadoodles can develop separation anxiety if they're left alone for too long. Bloom suggests using positive reinforcement training from the moment your sheepadoodle puppy gets home. You can gradually increase from second increments until the puppy starts to realize it's not a big deal. If you have to leave your dog at home alone for long hours, look into options like doggy day care or a dedicated walker. As with all breeds that go from tiny puppy to large dog, it's important to start sheepadoodle training with the adult dog in mind: Don't allow or encourage your puppy to do anything you wouldn't want a pound sheepadoodle doing a year from now. Health One potential advantage to a mixed breed dog is hybrid vigor, the idea of relatively lower occurrence of genetic diseases cropping up in offspring from two vastly different genetic lines. Some scientists, however, dispute that hybrid dogs are inherently healthier than their purebred brethren. Whether you're looking for a sheepadoodle or purebred pup, consider a breeder with an excellent track record who does health screening for both parents. That being said, sheepadoodles by all accounts are relatively healthy dogs that live from 12—15 years. As with all large dogs, it's important to know the symptoms of bloat , a condition in which a dog's stomach fills with gas and expands or twists to cut off blood flow to organs. This also helps your puppy learn how to have some independent time and get mental stimulation while eating. History The origins are the sheepadoodle are murky at best: While humans have been cross-breeding dogs as long as there have been breeds, the popularity of sheepadoodles as a special hybrid of their own really only took off in the past decade or so. Some articles indicate that the "doodle" naming convention started in , which is possibly when the mixing of poodles to create a line of low-shedding dogs started to take off. The sheepadoodle's ancestors, however, have long historical roots. Old English sheepdogs were developed in the west of England as drovers, or dogs that helped livestock move along the dusty roads to market. Their tails were docked to indicate that they were working dogs this also kept their tails away from wayward hooves , giving this breed the nickname "bobtail. The curly coat that protected them from chilly water and their superb intelligence made them excellent retrievers. Fun Facts One thing is undeniable: People really, really love their sheepadoodles. Popular sheepadoodle ambassadors on social media include Otis , a big fluffy boy with a small sidekick named Sully; Zammy , a giant floof who also volunteers as a children's hospital therapy dog; and Millie , a mini sheepadoodle who lives in New York and loves to smile for the camera. Bunny the "talking" sheepadoodle is a TikTok star, known for her funny button-speech conversations. The mixed breed took another leap in popularity when Olympic figure skaters Meryl Davis and Fedor Andreev announced that they had adopted a mini sheepadoodle named Bilbo. Was this page helpful? Life Span Did You Know? A Sheepadoodle can be an F1 or an F1b. F1 Sheepadoodles are a first generation, which means their parents are an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. They are often confused, at least in name, with Shepadoodles, but they are not the same dog. Shepadoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a German Shepherd. Sheepadoodles are beautiful dogs inside and out. They tend to be extremely friendly and absolutely love their families. Because they are mixed with a Poodle, there is a chance that their coat will be low-shedding. Their kind disposition and energetic personality make them a good fit for families. Although they are not purebred dogs, and therefore are not recognized by the AKC, they are recognized by other dog registries and clubs. In addition to making a great family pet, Sheepadoodles also make great therapy dogs. A well-socialized Sheepadoodle is an intelligent and active dog who tends to be naturally friendly, calm, and sociable. They tend to get along well with other dogs, pets, and children. Sheepadoodles tend to be expressive and intuitive. They seem to innately know how to be gentle and quiet with younger children. They are a combination of a companion and working dog that loves their family and is devoted to them. This dog breed is moderately adaptable. Due to their exercise needs, they tend to be a better fit for homes with large yards. They can adapt to apartment living, as long as they get plenty of serious exercise every day. They tend to do best in moderate and cooler climates, but can adapt to other types. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Because the Sheepadoodle is a mixed breed, they can inherit none of the health issues of their parent breeds or can inherit the health issues from one or both of them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, a Sheepadoodle is also at risk for bloat like their parents. Bloat in dogs can quickly become dangerous, especially if gastric torsion occurs ie: the stomach flips. The Sheepadoodle is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This tends to make them obedient, fast learners who are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although they are alert and natural watchdogs, well-socialized Sheepadoodles tend to be quiet and will have to be trained to bark at strangers. Because they seek the approval of their owners, they tend to be sensitive. Harsh scolding or tones can hurt your bond with them and could cause them to be withdrawn or unresponsive to training. They respond best to positive ongoing training methods that are consistent. The low-shedding coat is one of the reasons why there are so many Poodle mixes. Sheepadoodle coats can vary from straight to curly and coat colors can be any combination of those common in Poodles. This means you can have a Sheepadoodle that is black, brown, gray, white, or a mix of colors. They only need to be bathed as needed, so having it done while at the groomer is usually a good fit. Floppy ears are more likely to trap dirt, debris, and moisture, which makes them more prone to ear infections. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. It is also one of the most preventable. By implementing good dental care for dogs early on, you can decrease the tartar buildup that causes gum disease and tooth decay. A Sheepadoodle is a high-energy dog breed. They need plenty of exercise and structured exercise routines to be happy and healthy. Their high energy and intelligence mean they need a lot of daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Giving them a job to do can help satisfy their working dog tendencies. They also tend to love water, so going swimming with your dog can be a good activity. Because they are also sociable, taking a trip to the dog park could be another great way to get rid of excess energy. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damaging developing joints. Fully-grown Sheepadoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Generally, Sheepadoodles 20 inches or shorter are considered Mini Sheepadoodles. Sheepadoodles generally live for years on average. Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called Sheepdoodles, Sheepdogpoos, Sheepposs, and Sheep-a-poos. Featured Sheepadoodle Article. But this is pretty speculative. Because it all started with their parent breeds, the Poodle and Old English Sheepdog. Although this herding dog is believed to have originated in the west of England. Interestingly enough the first documentation of the dog comes not from the written record, but from the art world. Many believe that an 18th century painting by Thomas Gainsborough features a dog resembling the Old English Sheepdog. This breed was used for generations as a hard working, herding dog. But today they have found a firm place as companions in family homes too. Some believe it be descended from French ancestors while others think that its ancestral roots lay in Germany. The poodle comes in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The Standard, most often used to create the Sheepdog Poodle mix, is the largest of the three and was originally used in the hunting field. Like the Old English Sheepdog, the Standard Poodle is also now commonly found living happily in homes around the world. Fun facts about Sheepdog Poodle mix The Sheepadoodle is best known for a pretty amazing disguise — as a panda! The markings on this giant cutie really stand out from the crowd. These easy-going fur balls are usually black and white in appearance, often having one or both eyes ringed by a large patch of black fur. Topping off their cuddly look is an adorable, dark, prominent nose. Sheepadoodle coats are often mainly white in front and black on the tail end. Some pups are nearly all white or all black. Often with random splotches of the opposite color. Then again, there are some adorable Sheepadoodle full grown who resemble a giant tub of yummy chocolate chip ice cream! Sheepadoodle Size Standard poodles max out at around 65 pounds and 21 inches in height. Old English Sheepdogs stand on average around two feet in height. Males reach approximately 22 inches-plus, while females stand around 21 inches and over. These large dogs carry a good amount of weight on their frame, with anything between 60 and pounds the norm. A standard Sheepdog Poodle mix could be anywhere within these limits. And his temperament can vary too. Sheepdog Poodle mix temperament The Sheepadoodle personality will be influenced by the genetic makeup of the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog. In an ideal world, every cross breed would express only the very best qualities of each parent. But in reality as we know from our own lives! The Old English Sheepdog is praised for its gentle nature and adaptability. The large breed can be a mellow housedog, but these are big dogs that enjoy exploring and regular walks. Sheepdogs greatly enjoy being included in family time and along with the Poodle can do well with children provided that they are socialized and trained early. Old English Sheepdogs do not relish being separated from their humans and they may become destructive if left by themselves for extended periods of time. Like the Poodle, the Old English Sheepdog is a fast learner and he is an obedient dog. Poodles rank near the top in canine intelligence and are highly trainable. They enjoy pleasing their owners and retain an alert sensitivity which means they will tell you when strangers approach. Poodles have a reputation for being high strung but in fact they have naturally low levels of aggression. Training your Sheepadoodle Early socialization and positive reinforcement training techniques will go a long way. Punishment based training is not recommended and can be dangerous since it can actually mask signs of troubling behavior. Most Sheepadoodle owners describe their pups as sociable, playful, people-oriented, and displaying a sweet disposition. It is important to remember Sheepadoodle temperament could be on either end of the spectrum, or a mixture of both. Large, rambling Sheepdogs need an outlet for their physical nature. They are big, enthusiastic dogs and require proper training to curb what could easily turn into rowdy, unwanted behavior. For example, some may try to herd smaller animals or children! Poodles maintain moderate levels of energy and like to keep busy, especially mentally. They will also need company. This is not usually a dog that will be happy to be left during alone all day while you work. But keep them busy and company, and they have a good chance of being a charming companion. Your Sheepadoodle can be expected to be at risk from some of the same health issues as his parents. Both breeds are well structured. Their legs are not too short. And their muzzles are a good length. These are important features in any puppy. But there are diseases associated with each breed. Make sure your breeder has used parents health tested against the conditions common to each of them. Old English Sheepdogs health Hip dysplasia, eye disease, and hypothyroidism are all issues to be aware of with Old English Sheepdogs. Hip dysplasia is not uncommon in large breeds. It can affect one or both hips, and cause pain and stiffness. Both the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle parents should have good hip scores. Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited eye condition in which the retina deteriorates leading to vision loss. A dog with PRA may eventually lose both day and nighttime vision. Blind dogs are capable of adapting, but this is a disease that can and should be avoided. Unfortunately Poodles are prone to dermatological issues including sebaceous adenitis , a condition affecting the glands that lubricate the hair follicles and skin. The condition is frequently misdiagnosed as hypothyroidism, complicating treatment. What you can do is make sure they are each health tested for the problems that may affect their breed to reduce the chance of this being inherited by your pup. How long do Sheepadoodles live? Old English Sheepdogs live around 11 years and Standard Poodles 12 years. Given the encouraging fact that mixed breed dogs tend to live a little longer, the average Sheepadoodle lifespan should therefore hopefully be in excess of 12 years. Feeding your Sheepdog Poodle mix Your Sheepadoodle is likely to be quite a large dog. And large breed puppies need special attention when it comes to their diet. These can be exacerbated by rapid growth. You also need to be aware of the potential for bloat, which may also be reduced by giving smaller meals and helping your pup to slow down their pace. Choose a large breed puppy food, and when they reach the cut off for your chosen brand swap them over to a large breed adult food too. How curly will depend on how much the puppy takes after the poodle parent. Old English Sheepdogs have a lovely long shaggy coat that can rightfully be described as high maintenance. Busy modern owners often lack the time or money needed to maintain a healthy, robust coat. A poodle coat is a little different. But still requires quite a bit of care. It sheds less fur than a looser coat It need regular clipping unless you are a very keen groomer Poodles are a popular pet choice for people sensitive to dog hair. This is due to their reputation for a hypoallergenic coat. However, they are not completely allergen free. And neither are their mixes. And part of the reason for that reputation is the way that the poodle fur grows. Shedding and curly hair Poodles do shed , but what happens next is the cause for their hypoallergenic reputation. Curly dog hair tends to stay trapped in the coat as it sheds. And Poodles do not have a high-maintenance undercoat. This leaves less hair on your carpet. But there can be problems. The shed hair is still there on the dog. And that trapped hair can result in matting. Unless brushed daily — and thoroughly! No guarantees for allergy sufferers So, there is no guarantee your Poodle mix will have a hypoallergenic coat. Your puppy will probably have looser curls than a Poodle. These are easier to groom. But they may have tighter curls like a Poodle Either way, the chances are they will need clipping professionally. A trip to the groomer every few weeks will usually include a bath. Which is good as Sheepadoodles may drool! A grooming routine Puppies groomed from an early age are much happier and easy to manage. Be sure to get them used to being groomed from an early age regardless. And of course you always have the option of keeping their coat clipped short, for an easier to manage regime. Do Sheepadoodles make good family pets? The Sheepadoodle is a bold choice when it comes to a family pet. Due to their potentially large size and potentially rather difficult to manage coat. However, with great socialization and diligent health testing of their parents, it is possible to turn this fluffy bear dog into a good family pet. Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs alike are not overly pushy with people, but are still very loyal and loving to their families. Rescuing a Sheepdog Poodle mix Sheepadoodles do come into dog shelters and rescue societies from time to time. There are pros and cons to rescuing but many people find it to be a good experience. Make sure you get plenty of information from the rescue center. A good rescue center will have temperament tested your dog. If you have lots of time and love to give, you are doing a wonderful thing by giving a homeless dog a place to lay their head. However, your best for finding an adult dog with this cross bred background is to contact your local Old English Sheepdog and Poodle rescues separately.

From there we began showing dairy goats, angora goats, and pygmy goats in 4-H, FFA, and open shows from .When my son went off to college, we decided to sell off our dairy goat herd and focus on our Pug Breeding Program. Once we were able to focus on our Pug Breeding Program more we began to search for pugs of unique colors that we didn't already own. In I quit my job, and started breeding pugs full time. My new job title is a "Stay at Home Pug Mommy". Instead we retire them and they live out the remainder of their lives here at Tipping Point Farm, playing, eating, sleeping day after day, and spending time with our family. After all, Pugs are the ultimate companion and mans best friend. They will always be there for you no matter what, whether they are trying to cheer you up, steel your food, or give you kisses. With such a large demand for our pugs, I have now brought in my mom's dogs to be a part of my breeding program, so everyone is able to have their own Tipping Point Farm Pug. My Mom owns a farm thirty minutes away from me where she lives and raises her own pugs with help from me. On February 11th, , my first pug, "Cheese", the one who started it all passed away suddenly. The whole family was devastated after learning of her passing and spending so many years with such a great dog. I was heart broken, I lost my best friend. This one dog was the reason behind my whole pug breeding program. I loved this dog so much that I wanted to breed pugs so everyone could have "their own Cheese". After all, Pug love is like no other, you are their world and they become a family member. Even though Cheese is no longer here with us, I know that I am lucky enough to have got to spend so many years with her and have her daughters, grand daughters, and great grand daughters. When it comes to our pugs, Health is our 1 priority and then of course color! From day one, we are directly involved with our puppies, we help them come into the world and love them everyday till they go to there new family. Please feel free to call or email me anytime you have a question or are interested in a pug. Thank you for taking the time to read the Story behind our farm. We are looking forward to hearing from you and your family and to adding a new member to your family. I apologize for this and will be back to keeping up with my website for .As soon as we learned of the diagnosis, we made arrangements to meet with the surgeon. Unfortunately after the scans were taken, a spot was found on his liver which gave him a terminal diagnosis 2 months without chemo, 6 months with chemo. In March of he opted to start a chemo regiment every 3 weeks to hopefully extend his life expectancy. During the next few months him and I created a bucket list of things he wanted to do, which we were able to complete in between his visits to the hospital and chemo treatments. In August his cancer was reassessed to see if the chemo treatments had been working. The results were heartbreaking, the chemo hadn't worked and his body was full of cancer. Within a month of this heart breaking news my fathers health deteriorated, he was back and forth between hospice and the emergency room until he lost his battle to cancer on September 22, .My fathers loss has been extremely difficult, but I am now able to start focusing on my breeding program once again. As of right now we have big plans for .For more information about our plans, please contact me with any inquiries regarding current and future puppies or keep checking back for updates. We appreciate your patience and look forward to adding the newest fur-member to your family. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article.