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An empty outlined icon indicating the option to save an item Save Article Getty Images Every dog out there can't help but beg for table scraps every once in a while. But it turns out there's one breed that's more food-obsessed than the rest, and it's the most popular dog in America. A new study found Labrador retrievers are more likely than other breeds to beg for treats and generally be obsessed with food. That's because they have a specific gene mutation that sets them apart from the rest. It's the first of its kind that has been directly associated with canine obesity. The study, published in the journal Cell Metabolism , looked at specific genes that were related to obesity in humans. Obese dogs were more likely to have mutations in the gene POMC, and that genetic tweak was associated with food-motivated behaviors. Dogs with a specific POMC deletion were more likely to beg for food, pay attention at mealtimes, scavenge for scraps, and weigh more in general. Though not all food-obsessed dogs had the gene mutation, it was still a clear connection. And in a fascinating detail, the study also found that the gene mutation was more likely in Labradors that were working as assistance dogs. So if you have one of these pups, the researchers suggest keeping a closer eye on their weight. Make sure you're vigilant about portion control and don't give in to the puppy-dog eyes begging for a piece of steak at the dinner table. It's tough, but it's for your best friend's own good. Watch Next. Vets have mentioned that Labradors tend to be overweight dogs because of their begging. Why are Labrador retrievers always hungry? Why are Labradors obsessed with food? The latest studies in cell metabolism reflect the point that the over-hungry behaviour may be due to some biological factors. Results show that inability to switch off hunger is due to the modification in a gene, POMC. Additionally, due to this modification, Labradors cannot produce neuropeptides beta MSH and beta-endorphin, hunger switches. The same is the reason which causes obesity in dogs and especially in the Labrador breed. Along with this, there are chances that your Labrador is genuinely hungry, and it is not due to the absence of the mentioned substances. There is a possibility that the current food you are offering to your Labrador is not enough to complete its nutrient needs. Sometimes sickness also causes random and abnormal hunger in Labrador. Not only this, separation anxiety, along with stress or depression, also forces the dog to eat whatever is coming its way. Do Labrador retrievers eat a lot? As mentioned above, all of the explanations directly reflect that Labrador retrievers eat a lot. No matter what quality or quantity of food you are providing to your lab, it is going to demand food after an hour or even after 15 minutes. Again the reasons are somehow clear at this point it is due to the genetic modification which causes abnormal hunger in your Labrador. This abnormal hunger forces them to chew toys, socks, and stones. There is a wide range of methods to train a Labrador to stop begging for food and demand meals at their specific time. Proper training will teach your Labrador to control hunger rather than exploring the trash and eating grass and dirt. How many times a day should you feed a Labrador? Yes, we accept that Labradors eat a lot, but still, you should make a routine of feeding your Labrador so that it will not get an upset tummy or diarrhoea. Because of the food obsession, Labradors are more prone to get diarrhoea or other stomach problems, so you must feed them on a proper routine. The routine makes it easy for the Labrador to digest meals, and hence they get a smoothly running digestive system. Check out our article about How much to feed Labrador? The need and time for food will keep changing with the growing age of Labrador. Or we can say that a puppy will have a different food need as compared to the adult Labrador. For the Labrador puppies, it is highly recommended to feed them four times a day at the age of 3 months. For the Labradors between three to six months, the advice is to provide them only three times a day. Once your Labrador is older than six months, feed them twice a day. It is crucial to mention that parents should avoid feeding their puppy within 3 hours of leading up to bed. In case your Labrador is suffering from diarrhoea or soft stools, then you must feed it with smaller different meals rather than a few large meals. Why do Labradors eat so much? Why do Labradors eat so much and how to manage their appetite? From scarfing down their dinner in record time to scavenging for scraps on your daily walks, it's hard to ignore the fact that Labradors love to eat. You might find yourself asking, "Why do Labradors eat so much? Introduction to Labradors and their eating habits Labrador Retrievers are known for their friendly, outgoing personalities and their love of food. According to the Kennel Club, Labradors are the most popular breed in the UK since , and it's easy to see why. Their kind, gentle nature makes them excellent family pets, and their intelligence and train ability mean they're often used as service dogs and working dogs. However, their love of food can sometimes get them into trouble. Labradors are notorious for eating everything and anything in sight, from their own dog food to non food items like socks and shoes. This leaves many dog owners scratching their heads and wondering why their beloved pets seem to be constantly on the hunt for meal time. To better understand why a Labrador eats so much, we must first delve into the science behind their seemingly insatiable appetites. The science behind why Labradors eat so much Recent research has shed light on the mystery of why Labs love to eat so much. According to a study published in the journal Cell Metabolism , Labradors have a genetic variation that makes them more prone to obesity and overeating. This genetic mutation affects the production of a hormone called pro-opiomelanocortin POMC , which is responsible for regulating appetite and energy levels in dogs. In Labradors, this mutation leads to lower levels of POMC, which in turn leads to an increased appetite and a decreased ability to feel full. This means that Labradors are genetically predisposed to eat more than other breeds, and it's likely a significant factor in their love affair with food. Genetics and Labradors' insatiable appetite The genetic mutation that affects POMC production in Labradors is not unique to this breed, but it is more common in Labradors than in other breeds. It's important to note that not all Labradors with the genetic mutation will become obese or overeat. Environmental factors, such as diet and exercise, also play a role in determining a dog's weight and eating habits. However, knowing that your Labrador may be genetically predisposed to overeating can help you make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle. The role of breed history in Labradors' eating behaviour In addition to genetics, the history of the Labrador breed may also play a role in their love of food. Labradors were originally bred as working dogs, assisting fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. These dogs would retrieve fish and help haul in fishing nets, requiring them to have a high energy level and a strong work drive. Because they were working dogs, early Labradors needed to consume a lot of calories to fuel their daily activities. As a result, they developed a strong appetite and an ability to eat large amounts of food quickly. This trait was likely passed down through generations, and it's possible that modern Labradors have retained their ancestors' love of food. Health concerns related to overeating in Labradors While it's endearing to watch your Labrador happily gobble down their dinner, overeating can lead to a number of health issues. Obesity is a significant concern for Labradors, as it can lead to joint problems, diabetes, heart disease, and a reduced lifespan. In fact, according to a study by the University of Liverpool, Labradors with the POMC gene mutation have an average lifespan that is two years shorter than those without the mutation. It's also important to be aware of the risk of bloat, a life-threatening condition that can affect deep-chested breeds like Labradors. Bloat occurs when a dog's stomach fills with gas and then twists on itself, cutting off blood flow and leading to tissue death. Eating too quickly or consuming large quantities of food can increase the risk of bloat, so it's crucial to monitor your Labrador's eating habits. Medical reasons related to why Labs are always hungry There are several reasons why a Lab is always hungry but some medical related reasons may be the answer to this question: Rapid metabolism Labradors have a fast metabolism, which means they burn calories quickly. This leads to a constant need for food to replenish their energy reserves. Hormonal imbalances Certain medical conditions can cause hormonal imbalances in Labradors, affecting their hunger levels. One such condition is hypothyroidism, caused by an underactive thyroid gland. This can lead to an increase in appetite and weight gain. For example: Symptoms of hypothyroidism in Labradors include lethargy, weight gain, and increased hunger. Diabetes Labradors are prone to developing diabetes, a condition that affects the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. When blood sugar levels are not properly regulated, a dog may feel constantly hungry, even after eating. For example: Symptoms of diabetes in Labradors include excessive thirst, frequent urination, and increased appetite. Parasites Intestinal parasites, such as worms, can cause a Labrador to feel constantly hungry. The parasites consume the nutrients from the dog's food, leaving the dog with an empty feeling in their stomach. For example: Common symptoms of parasitic infections in dogs include a voracious appetite, weight loss, and a pot-bellied appearance. Tips for managing a Labrador's appetite Now that you understand why Labradors eat so much, it's time to discuss how you can manage their appetite and keep them healthy. Here are some tips to help you keep your Labrador's eating habits in check: Measure your Labrador's food: Use a measuring cup to portion out your dog's food based on their age, weight, and activity level. This will ensure they're getting the right amount of calories without overeating. Feed smaller, more frequent meals: Instead of feeding your Labrador one or two large meals a day, try breaking their daily ration into three or four smaller meals. This can help prevent overeating and reduce the risk of bloat. Use slow feeder bowls: Slow feeder bowls have compartments or ridges that make it more difficult for your dog to gulp down their food, encouraging them to eat more slowly and reducing the risk of bloat. Consider puzzle toys: Puzzle toys require your dog to work for their food, engaging their mind and slowing down their eating. The importance of a balanced diet for Labrador Retrievers High-quality dog food designed for large breeds will contain the right balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to support your Labrador's energy needs to maintain a healthy weight. Keep an eye on the ingredient list for whole, natural ingredients like: Meat. For example, though they have to meet specific requirements, commercial dog foods may differ in nutrient composition, where one type of dog food carries the nutrients your dog needs in a small amount while another gives the nutrients in a larger amount. In the first case, feeding your dog twice daily would be enough. But if your dog needs a larger amount to meet his nutritional needs, then you may need to feed him more times. Reading the dog food listing on the package should help you decide on the number of times to feed your Lab. Alternatively, refer to the serving instructions on the dog food package. This dog food is made to provide a balanced feed to Labradors older than a year and balances out the fat and protein ratio to suit the breed. To answer the question of how often you should feed a Labrador with this particular product, the serving suggestion on the Royal Canin Labrador food package shows the number of cups your Labrador should eat per day in relation to its weight and activity level, divided into two meals. For example, a pound 20 kg Labrador with an hour of daily activity should be fed 4 cups 1 L of Royal Canin divided into two meals. Activity Level Labradors with a high activity level should be fed more food to replenish the energy expended during exercise. The more food a dog eats, the more you should break it down into smaller meals. For example, a pound 35 kg male Labrador is assigned 6 cups of Royal Canin food if he does 1 hour of activity daily. The increased food amount would be better divided into three meals rather than the usual two. This rationing is because feeding your dog more than it is used to eat in a single meal can cause slowed digestion and, consequently, bloating and stomach discomfort. A healthy dog feeding option is a 3-meal daily schedule breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Health Labradors with health issues need special feeding plans. The rule for the number of times a sick Labrador should be fed is they should eat in small quantities several times daily. The food should be easy to eat and digest, like chicken breast or gravy. Doing this will ensure that your dog gets the required nutrients and does not risk malnourishment. Instead, if you work from home, you may opt for healthier, smaller meals 3-times a day. For example, you may already feed your Lab the right amount of food recommended for his age, weight, and activity level twice a day, but your dog always leaves food in his bowl. In this case, you may want to divide the food into three smaller meals. Dividing the food will ensure your dog eats the recommended amount and gets the required nutrition. Creating a Labrador feeding plan also means not allowing your Lab to eat every bit of food or non-food items he finds on his way. We will tell you how in the next section. Consult your vet. Lab food with all the recommended nutrients and the right amount of fiber will make your dog feel full and not required to eat always. You can work that out with your vet before reaching out to a dog food company. I really like Ollie as it makes feeding times so easy, and you can relax knowing your doggo is getting all the proper nutrients. Understanding why Labradors always feel hungry due to a genetic cause is reason enough not to give in to their begging. Giving in once means giving in always, and that will keep your dog asking for food at the table or even stealing it himself when you are not around. If your Lab is the kind that likes to eat everything, time spent working the puzzle could save him a few extra bites. For example, keeping your Lab busy with slow feeders while you have your meal is a perfect way of keeping him from begging for table scraps. If a puzzle or slow feeder sounds to you like an answer to the question of how to stop a Labrador from eating everything, I recommend the Outward Hound Slow Feeder Dog Bowl from Amazon. Whichever the case, your vet has the best answer to all these situations. There are several reasons why Labradors eat fast: your dog may have the POMC gene mutation that makes him always hungry and wanting to gobble down his food; your Lab may have a hunger-triggering illness like diabetes, or your Lab may be unsure of his next meal if your feeding schedule is irregular. Other reasons your Lab may be hurrying to eat his meal include: A learned behavior to eat quickly. Poor nutrition that makes him always hungry and in a hurry to replenish his energies. Competition for food resources with other pets in the home. If, instead, your Lab has a medical, nutritional, or stress issue, resolving the causes will help your Lab grow out of eating everything. Do you want to learn more about pica in Labradors? Why do Labradors eat so much? For no fault of their own. A good number of Labs have a mutation of the POMC gene that makes them perpetually hungry and always want to eat. Some Labs may eat a lot due to nutritional deficiencies, illnesses that trigger hunger like diabetes, or stress. Related Posts You May Like:. Interestingly, the University of Cambridge study found that the POMC gene mutation is significantly more common in Labrador Retrievers who are selected to become assistance dogs. Unfortunately, an underlying medical problem is another reason why Labs always feel hungry. If your dog has suddenly developed an increased appetite, then a visit to the vet is definitely in order. Canine diabetes can also make a dog feel hungry all the time. If this is the problem there are some ways to fix it. Between meal snacks should be the first thing you remove or change. This includes those used for training purposes Commercial snacks pack a lot of calories, often without any nutritional value. Consider vegetables, fruit, and other healthier alternatives. Portion Control Knowing how much food to give your Labrador is not always as easy as reading the label. Although this should give you some guidelines. How much food a Lab needs will differ from dog to dog and brand to brand. If so, you may need to reduce the amount of food he gets at mealtimes. Start by giving him a third less food than normal. This article offers more tips on feeding a Labrador. On average a male Labrador should weigh between 65 and 80 pounds. A female should weigh from 55 to 70 pounds. This is because, like people, pets have different bone structures. They can be outside the average weight range and still be at their optimal weight. Look at your dog from different angles. Also, you should feel for his ribs. These are good ways to tell if they need to lose weight. You should be able to detect a waistline when looking at your dog from above. There should also be a slight tuck up behind the ribs. When lightly running your hands along the sides of the dog you should be able to feel their ribs.

This mix results in an intelligent, loving, and outgoing dog who enjoys being around people. They enjoy the company of both humans and other animals. They are generally good with children, although they may become overly excited if not properly socialized from an early age. Overall, Bichpoos make wonderful pets for families and individuals alike. The Bichpoo breed tends to have the best traits of both parent breeds. This makes them easy to train for tricks and obedience. They are also low-shedding, making them a good choice for people with allergies. These pups enjoy spending time with their owner and do not like being left alone for long periods of time. They make great companions for family life or individuals who are looking for an affectionate furry friend. Bichpoo Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 12 to 14 years — our Bichpoos for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Bichpoo puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. While these conditions can be costly to treat, the good news is that they can often be effectively managed with proper care. Finding a Bichpoo puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. The coat is hypoallergenic and does not shed, making the Bichpoo an ideal choice for people with allergies. Although the coat does not require much maintenance, it is important to brush it regularly to prevent mats and tangles from forming. In addition, the coat should be trimmed every few months to keep it looking its best. Meet Bichpoo Puppies for Sale. The Bichon Poodle is a designer mix which has a Bichon Frise mother, and a purebred miniature poodle father. This mix works well for small homes or apartments, because both pure breeds, before breeding, are small, and they retain that. The Bichon Poodle also does little shedding, much like both parents. Why not go for one of the best combinations of purebred dogs? Why go for huge dogs which do more than just shed, but cause havoc in some homes? Go with the Bichon Poodle puppies for sale, and you will see how they love companionship and are easy to groom. Designer mixes sometimes are about looks, but this Bichon Poodle not only looks beautiful, but is a smart, friendly, loving dog that will be a joy for any family. If you want a smart dog that appeals to the eye, the Bichon Poodle dog for sale here on Purebred Pups is the perfect choice for the family. Some dogs are just-plain untrainable from the beginning. However, these puppies are happy, incredibly smart, affectionate, and easy to train. It comes from the original breeds. Do you want a pet for your children? If you want a safe pet that will require little hard work from you, why not go for a socialized purebred pup from us? The Bichon Poodle is a loving dog which fits in perfectly with any family or home. It has a gentle personality perfect for any family with children. Full grown, our Bichon Poodle ranges in height from inches, and weighs between pounds, fitting well into any home. And they are homely not just in personality; they are the lowest shedders of any breed. It also has soft, loose curls that the purebred poodle sometimes has. The colors vary from solid cream, white, to apricot, and often have a mixture of two colors. The Bichon Poodle has little trouble with other animals as well. Purebred Pups is a specialized breeder, offering some of the best pups who will fit perfectly into any home. The dogs for sale here provide a joy and happiness to family life, while requiring little hard work in maintaining them. Bichon Poodles Dogs for Sale. It is considered a designer dog breed. The mix originated in Australia and started appearing in the late s. The goal was to breed a low or non-shedding dog that was sturdy and active with a temperament for families with children. The Bich-Poo is charming, affectionate, highly intelligent, and eager to please. They tend to get along well with other pets and with children, which makes them a great fit for families. Bich-Poos are also alert watchdogs. They can be prone to excessive barking, but training and socialization as a puppy can curb this tendency. Although they will alert you as a watchdog, they are more interested in making friends, so will not make a good guard dog. Bich-Poos are highly adaptable. They do well in apartments or larger homes as long as they get enough exercise and fit right in with families with children, other pets, or both. They do well in most climates and, as with most dog breeds, caution should be taken with extreme heat or cold. With this first generation cross, many of the health issues associated with the parent breeds are often not a concern. However, there is always the potential for inherited issues. Some of the potential breed-related health concerns are allergies, patella luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy. Because they are a small dog breed, they are also prone to breaks and fractures if dropped. This designer dog breed tends to be highly intelligent. That, paired with their eagerness to please their owner, makes them quick learners and fairly easy to train. They tend to be a good fit for owners of any experience level. Novice owners may want to enroll in obedience and training classes to ensure training and socialization is going as it should. A professional trainer can also help you put a plan in place to eliminate any potential issues with separation anxiety or the nipping that can become a common fear or anxiety response in small dogs. A Bich-Poo will often have a soft and curly coat. If their coat takes on Poodle properties, then it will be low-shedding and hypoallergenic. Common coat colors are typically light, like white or apricot, but can appear in other colors like tan, brown, black, or gray. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks is also a good idea for a healthy coat. You will also want to trim their nails monthly and clean their eyes and ears regularly. Although small, these dogs are robust and energetic. They tend to have bouts of high energy and require regular exercise throughout the day. Although they are active dogs, moderate levels of exercise will be enough to tire them out. Regular exercise, like daily walks and active playtime, will help immensely when your pup gets a sudden spike of energy and starts racing. Some of their energy bursts can seem endless, but, due to their smaller size, they do tend to tire quickly, so these bouts of energy will likely be on the shorter side. After that, your Bich-Poo will likely be ready for a nap and some cuddles. Keeping your dog well-exercised and engaged is key. A bored dog is one that can become restless and start to whine, chew, or bark. This designer dog breed usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between pounds. A Bichpoo will generally live between years. Featured Bich-poo Article.

What is a Golden Cavalier? As mentioned above, they can also be called a mini or petite Cavalier. This designer breed can trace back its origins to the early s although this mix existed before the turn of the millennium through inadvertent breeding. They can be between 16 and 18 inches tall and weigh between 35 and 45 pounds. He currently weighs 28 lbs. Bad Booney is another Golden Cavalier who is set to reach an eventual weigh of 35 to 45 pounds. Hence their nickname — the mini or petite Golden Retriever. They can have a coat color that can be any variation of fawn, white or yellow. We asked Bad Booney badbooney to describe his appearance. He happens to look a bit more like a Golden Retriever compared to others that may be second-generation, which look a little more like Cavaliers. Cavaliers are usually companion dogs that love to give and receive affection from their pet parents. Here is Milo milothegoldencavalier helped shed some light on the temperament of these designer dogs. I would say the temperament of a Golden Cavalier is very similar to a Golden Retriever. They are about moderate energy level. Now with that being said Milo is going through the puppy phase still, so he does still have that puppy energy and excitement when around others. Given their roots, they are so smart, eager to please, playful, loyal, lovable, and love to snuggle. Do Golden Cavaliers suffer from separation anxiety? Usually it manifests itself in the shape of persistent barking, howling or whining, destructive chewing or digging, and in some extreme cases, defecating or urinating inside the home. Cavaliers appear more inclined to suffer with separation anxiety rather than Golden Retrievers. When we leave, he may cry for a minute, but he is pretty good at self-soothing. He does like to be by my side a lot of the time, but overall does his own thing with the occasional check in. Do Golden Cavalier like to cuddle? Hence, their popularity with nobility and royals throughout the centuries. We asked Boone about whether their Golden Cavalier likes to cuddle. Boone is a professional cuddler. He loves to snuggle up to us as close as possible or snuggle with his stuffed animals in his dog bed. Are Golden Cavalier make great family pets? He jumps and barks and whines at the cat. We are training him everyday! Are Golden Cavalier easy to train? Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are usually eager to please, so they can pick up training quickly provided you start from a young age. Rufus has proven quite easy to train, according to his owners. He is easy to train. His only tough spot is impulse control. He also obsessed over cats. How much exercise do Golden Cavalier need? WagWalking suggest around 60 minutes of exercise a day for a Golden Cavalier. They enjoy a romp in the garden or yard as well as a slower paced daily walk. Rufus is described as a moderate-to-high energy dog. Lots of crazies and sleepies. Are Golden Cavalier hypoallergenic? Do Golden Cavalier shed? Do Golden Cavalier need regular grooming? We try to bathe him once a week since we live in NYC, and he picks up a lot of stuff on his walks. He sheds a bit too, so may be good to invest in a lint roller. When it comes to grooming, Milo is pretty easy and I can do majority of it at home. A lot of this breed maintenance is like any typical dog. We do the regular brushing to get rid of loose hair and make sure it is matt-free, clean his ears for wax or dirt, brush his teeth so they stay nice and pearly white and then make sure to trim his nails. Do Golden Cavaliers have any health problems? However, not all the health issues are known because some of these designer breeds are still in their relative infancy. One health problem to be aware of is hip dysplasia. This is a condition when there is an abnormal formation of the hip socket that, in its more severe form, can eventually cause crippling lameness and painful arthritis of the joints. With him being a mixed breed, you sometimes see less of the health issues that purebreds tend to show because of hybrid vigor. Are Golden Cavaliers fussy eaters? Some I heard can be, but I would say Milo is far from being a fussy eater. This boy absolutely loves to eat. He gets so excited when I give him his dog food, I also started to make homemade dog treats and they have been a fan favorite. He will eat anything from the grass on the ground to the dog food he is suppose to eat to any human food that crosses his path! This was the case with Milo. I was fortunate enough and rescued Milo, so my cost was free besides some extra vaccines I had to get him. Are Golden Cavaliers expensive? Do Golden Cavalier make great first-time pets for new owners? I believe Golden Cavaliers make excellent first-time pets for new owners. They are incredibly intelligent dogs and highly trainable. We have had Boone for 3 weeks now, and he was nearly potty trained with the assistance of Fresh Patch in 3 days, and he already knows all of the basic commands sit, stay, down, paw, etc. Given their intelligence and friendly demeanor, I do think they make incredible first-time pets. Plus, they are headturners on walks, so you will meet new pup friends and parents very easily. Golden Cavalier Highlights The Golden Cavalier is a loyal but easygoing companion that can be happy doing almost anything. The Golden Cavalier is a fairly easy breed to train. Consistency is key when training this breed. Daily training sessions that last minutes any longer can cause disinterest and backfire as far as creating progress are key to helping this breed retain good manners and stay on track. Basic obedience classes may help if you are a first-time dog parent. Without proper stimulation, the Golden Cavalier will grow bored and frustrated, regardless of how much love there is for them. Additionally, this breed can develop separation anxiety. Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed, although not a requirement. These breeds can be prone to behaviors humans find frustrating, like excessive barking and chewing. When understimulated, they will make it endlessly clear they are bored. Both parent breeds, however, are well known and loved. Cavaliers are descended from the toy spaniels depicted in many 16th, 17th, and 18th century paintings by famous artists such as Van Dyck and Gainsborough. Used as a hunting dog, the athletic Cavalier was bred for both work and the ability to curl up on a lap at the end of the day. However, the breed itself is fairly new. However, American Cavalier fans still had to wait longer before the breed became popular or recognized in the US. In , the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Club was created, the official breed club and only registering body for Cavaliers in the United States for more than fifty years. The AKC officially recognized the breed in March — meaning that the breed has been able to be registered in the US for less than thirty years. Despite the breed being regarded today as all-American, the Golden Retriever was first developed in Scotland. The breed was first created not as a family pet, but as a hardworking duck retrieving dog hence the Retriever in their name. The American Kennel Club recognized the breed in .Today, the Golden Retriever is the second most popular breed in the U. And for good reason! Beyond that, they are highly trainable for professions like being a therapy or service dog. They have no breed standard, so their coats may be found in a variation of colors from either parent. They will usually have a medium-length curly-haired coat, along with floppy, curly-haired ears. The breed will most often be found in white with colored markings, golden, or bronze. Without exposure, this devoted breed has the potential to become reactive to perceived threats. Training any dog consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life and yours as an adult. Golden Cavalier Health While Golden Cavaliers originating from responsible breeders are often healthy, there are some genetic predispositions towards health issues to be aware of with this crossbreed. Hip Dysplasia. Lifespan Sociability The Golden Cavalier is a relatively new, specialty breed. Because of their rarity, they tend to be expensive. Golden Cavaliers tend to be affectionate and friendly dogs. This crossbreed is a great choice for moderately active families or people who have enough space for this dog to run around in. They are energetic and playful, so exercise and mental stimulation should be at the top of your list. Early socialization and training are essential for this pup to get along with other pets. They love being around their human companions and will create strong bonds with their families. The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel was a favorite of royalty. Other, less common names include the Yellow Retriever and the Russian Retriever. The Golden Retriever has a complex origin. Although it has been suggested that this retriever evolved from Russian circus dogs, it is more likely that it was bred from crossings that started with a yellow Flat-coated Retriever and a Tweed Water Spaniel, with Irish Setter, Labrador, and Bloodhound. Owners who want to understand the potential personality traits will need to study the parent breeds for insight. Both the Golden Retriever and the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel have been bred as companion dogs for hundreds of years. Though quite different in size, each breed is well known as affectionate people pleasers. Are Golden Cavaliers Good for Families? They need lots of attention from their human companions and have moderate to low exercise requirements. The adaptable, easy-to-train nature and sweet disposition of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel has gained the favor of many royals over the centuries. For over a century, they were the favorite breed of the English monarchy. And as you can imagine, they are a dog that loves to be pampered. Golden Retrievers were bred specifically to excel at assisting their humans in the hunting field, but then be gentle and loyal in the home. While they can be somewhat goofy and sweetly dopey at times, they are actually very intelligent dogs. In fact, Golden Retrievers are the number one breed choice for service dogs to assist the blind, deaf, and disabled. This is a dog that loves to learn how to help its friends and family. Early socialization should lead to a peaceful and harmonious home life with all pets. However, as with any dog that has some hunting instinct in their breeding, you should always supervise interactions with small animals, especially prey animals. Even a gentle dog might enjoy chasing a rabbit once in a while! Things to Know When Owning a Golden Cavalier The decision to add a dog to the family should be well-considered and well-informed. Here are a few things you should know about the Golden Cavalier before you bring a new canine friend home. Golden Cavaliers will do well with plenty of protein and fatty acids like omega-3s. But all dogs are omnivores and need a range of carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals, too. While it can be tempting to go for the cheapest kibble, we recommend searching out a high-quality brand—one that contains a range of nutrients and is not just proteins and grains. You can even supplement the standard meals with some fruits and vegetables. Check in with your vet about safe foods and portion sizes. They do best in a rural or suburban home with ample outdoor access. And though Golden Cavaliers are adaptable and medium in size and energy, we do not recommend that they be kept in an apartment unless they have multiple opportunities per day to exercise in a yard or park. They respond well to positive reinforcement and are often very food motivated. The Golden Cavalier does have some hunting instincts from the Spaniel side, so a strong recall should be trained early on. With their eager and obedient nature, they often take well to training on agility courses. Due to their easygoing and gentle nature, the Golden Cavalier makes a spectacularly terrible guard dog. Both the King Charles Spaniel and the Golden Retriever have been specifically bred for their genial personalities, and like its parent breeds, this hybrid is friendly with just about everyone it meets. Daily brushing is recommended to remove dead hair and prevent mats from forming, particularly in the feathered hair around their feet and ears. The Golden Cavalier should have its nails clipped frequently if they do not have ample opportunity to wear them down naturally. Check at least once or twice a month to prevent cracking and foot problems. Interested in adopting? Send an email to andrew goldencavaliers. We have pups available, see our updated litter lists on our Pups-Available page. We just might have the answer! The Farm is now open to visitors. Please note that our farm is now open to visits "by appointment only". Email andrew goldencavaliers. Pups available! Click to see more Golden Cavaliers, a Specialty Crossbreed by our family is a labor of love. As a family man, I wanted to leave a legacy, and what better way to do so than by bringing other families together over a beautiful golden cavalier puppy. It was our daughter Rachel who sparked the idea of a specialty crossbreed. She has a brain injury and gets seizures, and when we first started raising Golden Retrievers, she found a purpose in taking care of the mothers and their puppies. But she needed a bit more easy-going dog. While their temperament was perfect for her — sweet and playful — we thought a smaller dog might be more manageable for her. The King Charles Cavalier Spaniel also has a great temperament, is smaller, and has a gentler energy level and was such a great fit for our family. And so, our Golden Cavaliers business was born. View latest updates and useful posts on our blog. Learn more on our "Pups Available" page! Week 8, and time to bring your puppy home. Debating between pick up or delivery? Consider coming to the farm to pick out your puppy, then having him or delivered to your door the following week. Just Paws Pet Transport is our go-to pet transport service. This is a separate service conducted by a third-party, and there is a separate charge. You can schedule a delivery directly by emailing Matt at justpawstransport gmail. Just Paws is based in Cleveland, Ohio. Delivery charges vary. Ground transport includes mileage, gas, and delivery fee for time. Referrals and Reviews are the lifeblood of any business. Have any Questions? Our Breeds All of our pups are 1st generation crossbreeds. We only breed 1st generation pups due to the puppies consistently displaying an even mix of the two breeds and due to the better health of a 1st generation pup. You can read more about the difference between 1st, 2nd and 3rd generation breeding by clicking here. Cavagroodles previously named Mini Groodles Our unique Cavagroodles are a cross between a Miniature Golden Retriever and a Moyen Poodle — so they have the calmness of the King Charles Cavalier, the playfulness of the Golden Retriever and the non shedding coat and intelligence of the Poodle. Their adult weight will range from 14 — 18 kg and adult height will be range from 35 — 55 cm at the shoulder. They are also not too large — they grow to about 35 — 55 cm high at the shoulder and weight will range from 14 kg. Medium Groodles Our Medium Groodles are not as large as Standard Groodles due to their parentage being a Moyen Poodle and a Golden Retriever — so they grow to around kg and up to around cm high at the shoulder. Standard Groodles range from kg and cm high at the shoulder. Groodles are non shedding dogs well known for their intelligence and affectionate, friendly nature. Follow us on Instagram and Facebook so you can see more photos of our dog family:.

Learn more Island Grove is based on an acre farm in beautiful countryside. Here, the family has been breeding Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles for over nine years and has established a good reputation as a reliable breeder. The Poodle and Bernese Mountain dog parent dogs are all health-screened for the genetic conditions that can affect the breeds, so you know that your pup will enjoy a problem-free future. What Influences Bernedoodle Prices? Curly coats are also the best option for you if you hate vacuuming! However, those qualities push the price of those puppies right up, and you can expect to pay top dollar for one of those cute tiny Teddies. Some coat colors are also worth more, especially if the puppies have unusual markings. Breeder Reputation Generally, a breeder with an excellent reputation will charge more for their pups than a new breeder who has yet to make their mark on the industry. Puppies whose parents are health-screened for the most common genetic diseases are usually pricier than those not. We strongly recommend that you only consider buying a puppy from a breeder that can prove their breeding dogs are clear of congenital health conditions that could be passed on to their offspring. Beware Puppy Mills and Backyard Breeders! Unfortunately, the demand for designer dogs has pushed up the price of puppies to eyewatering levels. That demand has also seen the emergence of unscrupulous operations known as puppy mills or puppy farms. Puppy farms produce as many puppies as quickly as possible to catch the current designer breed trend. By this time, the backyard breeder has long disappeared. Puppy Mill Red Flags There are lots of puppy mills that advertise their puppies online. Even the savviest puppy hunter can fall victim to a scammer, especially when confronted by a pair of gorgeous, cute puppy eyes! But how do you spot a backyard breeder or puppy mill? Here are some glaring red flags to be alert to! Cut and Paste Puppy mills often use the same advertisements. Look out for ads with the exact text used to advertise multiple breeds. Puppies should be eight weeks old before they can be vaccinated. So, if the advert says that the pups are younger than that and have been vaccinated, the advertiser is probably a puppy mill. Too Cheap As previously mentioned, designer puppies are pretty pricey. So, if you find an advert for a puppy that appears extremely cheap, the chances are the breeder is a puppy mill. Where To Meet Backyard breeders typically expect you to meet them somewhere random, such as in a deserted parking lot or even in a gas station. Photoshop A common ploy used by puppy farms is to use videos and photos of random puppies on their websites. No Waiting! Most reputable breeders have a waiting list for their puppies, often for years or even longer. Health Screening Certificates A premier Doodle breeder will be glad to produce health screening certificates for both the parent dogs. Those certificates should show that the puppies will be free from any genetic disorders associated with the parent breeds. You should also receive vaccination documentation, deworming, and flea and tick prevention paperwork. Insist on seeing the puppies with their mom and watching how the pups behave around her. On arrival, my friend asked if they could see the puppies with their mom and meet the dad, too. Dad was apparently away from the kennels on stud duties elsewhere! When I was puppy hunting some years ago, I spotted a likely advert on the net and phoned the breeder to ask for more information about the puppies and arrange to go and view them. The reply was dismissive, and I was told that I would have no trouble selling the puppy to someone else as it was super cute and very well-bred! Needless to say, I walked away. Contract Of Sale A reputable breeder usually insists that buyers of their pups sign a formal contract of sale. The report has a list of backyard breeders and puppy mills that have been shut down or sued for malpractice. Final Thoughts I hope you enjoyed our guide to finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy in Illinois. If you found the article helpful, please remember to share it. If possible, go for a breeder that offers a two-year health guarantee. Did you find a beautiful Bernedoodle through one of the Illinois breeders we featured here? Tell us your story in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment. Available Bernedoodles Everyone wants the perfect puppy. You are looking for the puppy you can love, and the one who will love you back with unconditional puppy love. We understand and will help you find the puppy that is just right for you and your family! Our family raises adorable Tiny, Mini, and Standard Bernedoodle puppies. We provide our puppies with loving care from day 1 and ensure the puppies stay healthy, allowing us to present you with a happy, active puppy dog pal. We are best at producing Tri-colored Mini and Standard Bernedoodles and our puppies make great companions and playmates. Browse our website to see photos of Bernedoodle puppies for sale. We also picture many of the puppies who have found their forever homes. Learn about our family, our puppies and their parents, and how you can become the proud owner of a new puppy! Our puppies go to their forever home with the following: Prepaid ICA Registration Health certificate from our vet Up to date on vaccinations Up to date on dewormers Micro chipped 2 year genetic health guarantee Dew claws removed. For allergy-friendly needs, F1b puppies are optimal Standard-sized need space to stretch Mini or tiny sizes available for smaller spaces see puppies Why Should I Get a Bernedoodle Puppy? Like many other types of Doodles, the Bernedoodle breed is well known for its high intelligence, loyalty, great health, and longevity. As loyal as they can be, the Bernedoodle is quite gentle and goofy when it comes to their personalities. With such a big and loving heart, the Bernedoodles can also serve exceptionally well as guard dogs. Bernedoodles are also incredibly friendly dogs and great around children, which makes them a fantastic family dog breed! Why Central Illinois Doodles? Our Bernedoodle pups are also raised according to the highest ethical standards and undergo early socialization, ensuring they grow healthy, well-mannered, and incredibly friendly. And if you need proof, the insurance of health warranty backs up our Bernedoodle Puppies. No matter what you may call them nicknames include Bernese Mountain dog poodle mix, the Bernese Mountain Poo, the Bernedoodle, the Berne-doodle, and even just the Doodle , the mini Bernedoodle is the perfect companion for all lifestyles. Check out our Bernedoodles for sale at Central Illinois Doodles today. We are one of the best Bernedoodle dog breeders in the Midwest, helping you find your high-quality Bernedoodle companion. History of Bernedoodles As covered, the Bernedoodle is a mixed dog breed. Due to their pedigree, Bernedoodles are very affectionate , incredibly loyal, and good-natured, which are the traits they inherit from Bernese Mountain Dogs. Bernedoodle puppies are also very well-mannered, a trait common among Poodles. At least not to the level this magnificent breed deserves. Bred from Great Mastiffs and other types of guard dog breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog was brought over to Switzerland approximately 2, years ago by the Romans. Aside from being known for having a loving personality, these breeds are only one of the four kinds of Sennenhund-type dogs from the Swiss Alps. These dogs were generally known as farm dogs that worked hard. Eventually, the Bernese Mountain Dog breed mixed with the Poodle breed led to the creation of the incredible Bernedoodle dog breed. Types of Bernedoodles. Very healthy with no serious illnesses due to hybrid genes Long lifespan of years Very loyal, gentle, docile creatures Great family dogs Great with children, people, and other dogs Highly intelligent - Bernedoodles rank among the smartest dogs Easy to train and eager to please Enjoy spending time with humans, making them excellent companions Low-to-no shedding! One of the few larger dog breeds that hardly shed Allergy-friendly coats Make excellent service animals or emotional support dogs - Bernedoodles can be trained for conditions like PTSD and anxiety disorders Bernedoodle Sizes You may mistakenly assume that all Bernedoodles are very large animals. This is not the case, as Mini Bernedoodle puppies can come in a range of sizes depending on the size of their parents. Here are the sizes of our Bernedoodles. The curlier their coats, the more allergy-friendly they will be. Typically, F1 Bernedoodles are suitable if you have a mild allergy. Some will have wavy hair with loose curls very similar to F1 Bernedoodle puppies and will be very low to non-shedding. The others will have curlier hair like their poodle fathers and also be non-shedding. By two to three weeks of age, the different coat types can be properly identified. Curly coated F1B Bernedoodles are best for people with moderate or severe allergies. Also, the Bernedoodle is low to non-shedding, making it a good choice of breed if you suffer from allergies. Bernedoodles are loyal dogs, with fun-loving, gentle, and often goofy personalities. Due to their nature, Bernedoodles make great guard dogs and are very attached to their owners and families. Bernedoodles are also highly intelligent and therefore are very easy to train. Bernedoodles are good with children and excellent family dogs. Bernedoodles need less exercise and are overall more docile and less energetic than Aussiedoodles, but they still enjoy walking and playing outdoors. You should choose a Bernedoodle if you have a slightly less active lifestyle and love a dog with a gentle, calm demeanor that requires less exercise. If you suffer from allergies, Bernedoodles may be a great option, as their Poodle parents make their coats allergy-friendly. Bernedoodles also shed much less than their Bernese Mountain Dog parents, which is a huge bonus for most people. The curlier the coat, the less shedding and the more allergy-friendly they will be. Bernedoodle puppies are easy to train because they are highly intelligent and are often used as service or emotional support dogs. Bernedoodles enjoy learning new things and are generally happy, easy-going, and eager to please their owners. When it comes to new tricks, Bernedoodle puppies will learn fast and will be able to keep up with you, making training a breeze. Their calm, affectionate demeanor and generally adaptable sensibilities make them highly resilient creatures who adjust well to changes in the family such as new children or new living environments. Bernedoodle puppies tend to take their cues from their owners about new situations and people. The Bernedoodle is a healthy breed and they do not suffer from any life-threatening diseases as long as they are given the proper nutrition and exercise. Bernedoodle puppies are a great choice for people with more active lifestyles or children. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Bernedoodles make amazing family companions, or even excellent service or therapy dogs. Thanks to its sweet temperament and low-shedding coat, the Bernedoodle has become one of the most popular Doodle breeds. Unfortunately, many people are still getting scammed by puppy mills that are well-known for their unethical breeding practices. An ethical breeder will be transparent with any of their documentation. In addition to that, they back their promises with genetic health guarantees that are usually applicable from one to three years from adoption. As they proudly say, they treat their dogs as family members first and breeding partners second, and each puppy is raised in a safe family environment. As a responsible Bernedoodle breeder in Illinois, Central Illinois Doodles screens all of their parent dogs for various genetic conditions and orthopedic health. In addition to that, they only breed temperament-tested dogs with loving personalities. What Makes This Breeder Unique? They begin socializing the puppies from day one, and they introduce the pups to different stimulating activities and exercises.

Location: Jacksonville, Florida 5. Leah, the owner and operator of Lucky Pup Ranch, has decades of experience. Golden Retriever puppy with a red collar lying on a comfortable pillow. This breeder was established in .Located in Spring Hill, Lucky Pup Ranch ensures that its dogs get plenty of exercise and stay happy and healthy. Of course, they thoroughly socialize their puppies, and the dogs get used to people of all ages. Call or email this breeder for more information. Ask them how to get on a waiting list and about the process of purchasing a puppy. Contact Details: Email: [email protected] Location: Spring Hill, Florida This highly recommended breeder may not be producing puppies at the moment, reach out to them and let us know if you have any luck! Paradise Golden Retrievers Paradise Golden Retrievers recognizes how much love and attention each and every puppy litter needs. The AKC has inspected this facility, and they found that it lives up to every standard and expectation. This breeder prides itself on providing healthy and happy puppies. Golden Retriever puppies sit close together. Paradise Golden Retrievers has successfully bred Golden Retrievers for more than 15 years. As a reputable and top-notch operation, Paradise only raises between two and four litters each year. That is important, as it ensures that every puppy gets outstanding care and attention. Sadly, this breed is particularly prone to cancer. As many as half of all Golden Retrievers will get cancer. The Goldens from Paradise, however, have a much lower rate. The breeder explained that they have only ever heard about one dog from their facility having this disease. That is an outstanding achievement. Contact Details:. Welcome to Paradise Golden Retrievers! Reservations are open for two full white English litters! Puppies ready for new homes October 1st and October 21st! Email for more info at paradisegoldenpuppy gmail. English Golden Retriever pups at 4 weeks of age Our stud dog, Maximus, aka Max, is the offspring of direct European-imported parents. He has multiple international champions in his pedigree and represents generations of healthy and selectively bred English Golden Retrievers. He has a sweet and lovable disposition and is quite mellow, an attribute typical of the English Goldens. Lovely English pups from our litter at 8 weeks old English Goldens, 6 weeks old Full English male puppy at 7 months. Golden Retrievers make an ideal family pet. Loyal, affectionate and intelligent, they bond closely with their human families. Paradise Golden Retrievers has an outstanding health legacy throughout the past 15 years. Selectively breeding two to four litters per year, we have placed over puppies in loving Florida homes. We have never had a puppy or adult dog returned due to a health issue. We attribute this to selective breeding practices as well as to utilizing the English Golden Retriever lines. We have found loving family homes for our 'Puppies from Paradise' throughout Florida since .Our location in Valrico, next to Brandon, is convenient for most families adding a Golden puppy to their lives. We have recently opened a second kennel outside of Raleigh, North Carolina, on a restored, historic plantation. This location is 30 minutes west of Greenville and situated on acres. Melissa Coleman, M. She has owned and loved the breed for over 40 years. Hunting the fields of rural Pennsylvania with her father, she first appreciated the obedience and agility of a highly-skilled hunting Golden. She has been fortunate to witness a wide range of Golden Retriever activities - from the field and stream excellence in retrieving, to the beloved family companion, to the obedient and sensitive therapy and service dog. She comments, "Goldens have such huge hearts, they are also very intuitive and have an enormous desire to please their owners. Many people purchasing a puppy have previously owned a Golden and need little introduction to their special qualities. To these people we say, "Welcome back to the wonderful world of Goldens! Golden Retrievers enrich lives in so many ways with their fun-loving, ball-retrieving and water-loving personalities! Their constant Golden "smile" is trademark! Owner Todd says, "Best 7 years of my life. Birthday Boy, age 7 For families with small children, Goldens are ranked at the top of the list for safety with interaction with children. Having raised Goldens with small children, we can attest that they happily tolerate the typical antics of climbing and gentle tugging which children lovingly 'heap' on them! It is a joy to see children and puppies grow up together. Our goal is two-fold: to place each of our puppies in a loving, thoughtful home setting and know that the puppy will become a much-loved member of the family; and that the families who select our puppies will be enriched by the life of their Golden Retriever. Puppy Purchasing Purchasing a puppy requires thoughtful planning. Health, parental lineage and temperament, as well as environment, are all important factors in purchasing a puppy. Also important is selecting a breeder who will take time to answer questions before, during and after the puppy sale. At Paradise Golden Retrievers, we prioritize these factors so that purchasing a puppy is a positive experience for the entire family. All deposits are refundable until the puppy is 6 weeks old. Deposits for puppy reservations, as well as balances, can be paid with credit cards using Paypal or by personal check by mail. Email for a PayPal Payment Request and your reservation can be confirmed the same day. Health Clearances Sterk Hart Tebow, our stud dog, has completed all of his health certifications - eyes, heart, hips and elbows. We are very pleased with his OFA "Good" hip rating. All females over two years of age in our breeding program have their OFA hip and elbow clearances or they are pending. With this parental certification, your puppy is destined to lead a happy and healthy life for many years to come! We have never had a puppy returned due to a health problem and credit this to our excellent breeding stock. Special Honor for our Puppy Temperaments The temperaments of our dogs can be described as gentle, obedient and affectionate. Paws with Purpose, an organization which provides companion dogs to disabled people, personally conducted standardized temperament testing on Ginger Snap, Shalimar and Daisy puppies, giving them excellent ratings. The puppies they purchased have continued to have great success in their training program and they have proved adaptable in a wide range of situations. Temperament is fundamentally important in selecting a puppy. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Florida Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Florida? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Florida? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. We have been breeding and showing Golden Retrievers for over 20 years. Many of our Goldens have gone on to win numerous awards at competitions throughout the U. Some of our pups even starred in Disney movies! Eagleridge has been recognized multiple times for our outstanding achievements and dedication to breeding outstanding Golden Retrievers. We are proudly registered as a Breeder of Merit by the AKC, as recognition for our dedication and passion of breeding beautiful, healthy Golden Retriever puppies. The AKC has also rewarded us with their Silver Medallion as recognition of our success over the years. Baby Francis 3 arriving January ! Testimonials Gus "Good morning! I wanted to reach out and send some photos of Gus who is now a little over a year old. He has gotten into Dock Diving in the last few months and has earned his Dock Senior title. Thank you for a great dog! When I tell you that he did it with no effort, I'm not exaggerating. He did it all on his own! I think he would have passed the test when I received him in July. I think you and your staff should be very proud of the training you provide your puppies! Please thank everyone who worked with Dwayne. In two weeks, he will become a therapy dog with Easter Seals of Alabama. Jen was so helpful, knowledgeable, and professional throughout the whole adoption process. She communicated regularly with us, providing so many updates and videos along the way. We are so fortunate for her and her staff! Thank you Jen and Eagleridge Golden Retrievers!! Jen was always super responsive, knowledgeable and able to answer our many questions. We have had Kevin for about a month and a half now we got him in September and he is settling in perfectly. The training program was a great addition, he is able to follow commands and is very well tempered and so smart. From the adoption process to the training program, we would absolutely recommend this breeder to anyone looking for a great experience! This FL boy is definitely enjoying the Northeastern Autumn! Furthermore, being a client since , I could honestly compare the experience from four 4 years ago to this present time. It was as stress free working with Jen Francis as it could possibly be! Her knowledge about this variety of a K9 is remarkable. The quality health , temperament and of course breed beauty and more are on full display at EagleRidge!

Toggle Menu This Is Why Your Labradoodle Puppy Is Going Grey Your labradoodle puppy was either black or chocolate brown when you added the new family member, and now he or she seems to be changing color. Why is my labradoodle puppy going grey? The genetic influence of the poodle tends to fade the coat to a lighter shade as the puppy matures. When you get a Doodle puppy it is very rare that you know exactly what color coat you will get, but you will always love whatever you end up with! Coat color is, of course, affected by parentage, and the colors can range from a single, even color to a wide multi-colored fur. Did you know that the colors can skip a generation or two? The grandparents and great-grandparents can have an effect on the final mature coat pigmentation. As mentioned earlier, coat color is determined genetically and there are several genes that are involved. Genes occur in pairs, one gene being contributed by each parent. This combination of genes will have some being dominant and some being recessive. The combination of the two determines what color the dog will be. Taking the Labrador Retriever as an example, colors that can occur are yellow, chocolate, or black. A black coat will appear charcoal, chocolate will appear silvery, and yellow will appear light gold or champagne. What Is Kemp Hair? Kemp hairs, when they appear, are usually found in a fleece-type coat of the labradoodle. The hair has a hollow middle and a comparatively thin outer layer so that it is quite brittle and breaks easily. Usually, kemp hairs appear in mature Labradoodles around the eyes and along the spine but have been known to appear in puppies as young as 4 or 5 months old. Stress or anxiety Stress and anxiety can cause fur or hair to go white. Although the reasons are debatable, sometimes stress can cause the body to stop producing pigmentation as well as it used to. Health Issues Although rare, hypothyroidism is a condition that can cause your Labradoodle to start greying. This condition is a result of the thyroid gland underperforming. Getting treatment for this disease from your vet should reverse the greying. There are a variety of liver and kidney diseases that can cause grey hair but are very rare. Always check with your vet if you suspect a health problem. I am a dog parent in Hot Springs Village, Ar. I created this site to help fellow Doodle owners with up-to-date information and tips for raising your puppy right! Post navigation. The type of hair might not be a heritage of Labrador Retrievers, but their coat shades might be… at least Lab colors like chocolate, cream, black, and others. All of these hues will be described in the paragraphs below, including the rarest Labradoodle shades that you might not have come across before. Apricot This type of Labradoodle coat color is also known as the golden Labradoodle because it resembles the trademark color of Golden Retrievers. However, the apricot hue is acknowledged as one of the official colors of Poodles — one of the parent breeds of Labradoodles, and the color gene carrier. Apricot Labradoodles are one of the most popular types of this mixed breed mainly because they remind us of fluffy teddy bears. Even though the majority of their coat is colored in the apricot shade, the pigment around the nose, eyes, and paws is usually colored in black or in dark brown. Red Experts in Doodles will immediately know that the red Labradoodles inherited this shade from red Poodles — their parent breed. This shade is quite similar to the apricot color, but Red Labradoodles have a significantly deeper hue. This type of shade could also be described as a mahogany hue because they share almost the same richness in color. Parti Have you ever heard of a Parti Poodle? In order to get a Parti pattern, both parent breeds have to be carriers, which is why this pattern is commonly present only in F1 and F1b Labradoodles and those of higher generations. When looking at a Parti Labradoodle, you can also see tints of silver or blue every once in a while. These pups also have a black nose in most cases, just like the Labradoodle types mentioned above. Cream Cream Labradoodles also known as caramel cream are one of the most prevalent types of Labradoodles, which are often related to white or golden pups, even though their coat is darker than white, but paler than the apricot ones. The color of their fur is supposed to be uniform throughout their entire coat, although some pups might have a little deeper tint concentrated on the areas around the eyes, nose, and mouth. This type of color is often used as a base shade for other Labradoodle colors, such as merle, parti in some cases, although white appears much more often , and Phantom Labradoodles. Therefore, some cream pups might end up with a black or a brown nose, eyes of varying colors, and even paws in brighter or deeper shades. Black This color of Labradoodle is quite popular, but it might not be as common as the cream shade mentioned above. The main reason for that is the fact that the black pigment also comes from a recessive gene, which requires both parent breeds to carry the same color pigment. However, there is no guarantee that a Black Labradoodle will result from two black parent breeds as they might be born in a hazel hue or in a chocolate shade. The highest chances of receiving a black Labradoodle are if black Labradors mix with black Poodles. Everything else will probably end up in a darker shade, but far from the black hue. Blue One of the main misconceptions about blue Labradoodles and blue Poodles is that they are actually colored in blue. This shade can be best described as a dark, shadowy-gray hue, which is quite uncommon. Canines can only have this type of color if they receive the Poodle gene that causes fading of the coat shade. On the other hand, this color can also be a result of a combination of parent breeds that are both carriers of the diluted pigment. Aussie Labradoodles share many similar traits with the Lab and Poodle cross, including coat colors. The dominant nose pigment is brown, which appears only if one parent possesses the same nose color. They are neither white nor cream pups; if these pups stood next to white Poodles, they would look like cream pups. It is not excluded for chalk-white puppies to develop certain health issues related to the eyes, which is a part of the heritage of white albino canines that are prone to deafness and blindness in some cases. Chalk-whites might not develop such serious health conditions, but one of the things that many Labradoodle owners will notice is tear-staining , which can often cause darker patches around the eyes. White Poodles are usually more prone to tear-staining, but it can be noticed in Poodles and their mixes of other bright shades. One of the main reasons why chocolate Labradoodles also called brown are so common is the fact that this is a standard color of Labrador Retrievers. Poodles also carry the brown gene, although this shade is richer and darker than the Lab one. Brown Poodles are usually described as pups with deep, golden-brown eyes and a rich, brown coat that have liver shade on the tips of the hair. This is because the brighter-colored dominant traits have a tendency to obscure the appearance of the darker-colored recessive genes, which is why this phenomenon occurs. The most accurate way to characterize a Chocolate Labradoodle is to say that its hue is somewhere between pecan and mahogany. The main shade is always found at the base of the coat hair while the second hue appears only on the tips of it. The base color can be either black or brown; however, these shades will soon begin to fade, leaving a much lighter coat hue when puppies become adults. Still, some canines might retain a deeper shade on the tips of their hair, which is known as the sable pattern. Silver Labradoodles are quite rare; this shade appears more often as a part of multicolored Labradoodles rather than a single color. They have silver lines that are found all over their body, which makes the coat hair shiny. Are Labradoodles Silver At Birth? Just like blue Labradoodles, silver puppies are born with black coat hair, which makes it difficult to define the exact color of the puppy until they grow older. This is the best way to increase the likelihood of obtaining the desired dog shade. The Merle pattern is defined as a color gene that is responsible for the formation of multicolored spots in a solid base color of a coat. Essentially, it can be said that a merle Labradoodle is nothing more than a Labradoodle in any solid shade, with different hue blotches. Merle is considered to be a complex gene that still intrigues a great number of canine experts. Merle Poodles can be crossed with merle Labradors in order to get this unique pattern, although both of these parent types are just as rare as their cross. Are There Double Merle Labradoodles? This phenomenon can occur in cases where two canines that possess the merle gene are crossed. Unfortunately, puppies with double merle-defined markings are prone to several health issues that include hearing impairment and poor eyesight. This is the primary reason why ethical Labradoodle breeders avoid crossing two merle pups. Therefore, every potential owner should require at least one single-colored parent, and more information on the bloodline of the pup. Gray-colored pups get this hue as they grow older as most of them are born either brown or black. Around the age of two, the coat of a dark Labradoodle begins to take on the appearance of lighter shades. After they completely lose the darker appearance, they take on the gray shade, which might become even lighter during their adult years. These pups are considered gray-colored Doodles despite the fact that they are not technically considered to be Labradoodles. These two colors are similar to the point that many people actually identify them as the same shade. However, that might not be the case. One of the main reasons why these two shades should be considered separate colors is the fact that the silver shade appears in lines on a darker coat while the gray hue covers the entire body. Also, the silver hue might appear only if the coat is black from birth while the gray one appears in deeper brown puppies. Phantom Photo from: miss. Most people have already heard about the Phantom Poodle — a pup with an exceptional coat that is also the parent breed of Phantom Labradoodles. The second color of this combination can be any shade, including cream and silver, along with distinctive white markings that are typically found on the chest, paws, above the eyes, and on the sides of the muzzle. Lavender Photo from: roxthedoodle This is one of the unique shades of Labradoodles that is generally described as a diluted chocolate shade. According to experts, the lavender color appears after the shade of certain chocolate Labradoodles starts to either fade or become brighter. As the Labradoodles grow older, their coat changes from a rich brown hue to milk chocolate until they end up in a lilac-like shade, which can be defined as a grayish hue with a hint of pink. Tuxedo Photo from: welcomeacreslabradoodles This is one of the most popular colors among parti Labradoodles. The reason why these canines are called tuxedos is simply the black and white color combination in which they appear. However, the rest of their body should be colored black. To increase the chances of getting this shade, you will have to combine a Lab of a white coat with a parti Poodle. Black and white pups usually have white color displaying around their eyes, nose, and on the top of their head, which never appears in a tuxedo pattern. What Are Abstract Labradoodles? This type of Labradoodle is a pooch that has several shades on their coat. Essentially, it can be any shade mixed with white color. However, the white hue should cover less than half of their body in order for a pup to be defined as abstract. Most people might find this answer rather confusing as they might have seen Labradoodle pups with a red coat often. However, a red Labradoodle will not be considered complete if it has a nose pigment that is different from black. Also, this type of doggie will need to have a solid-base red shade, which will not have any darker or brighter points on any part of the coat. This shade is believed to possess the most dominant gene, which is transferred from parent breeds to pups. Chocolate and white pups are right behind, along with apricot and cream shades. Although this might seem unlikely, in some cases, certain shades can have an impact on the life expectancy of Labradoodles. Labradoodles have the same lifespan as Poodles — 12 to 15 years, which is a great thing considering that Labrador Retrievers usually live up to 12 years only. However, the lifespan of Labradoodles might be shortened with the occurrence of serious health issues, including cardiovascular diseases, eye issues, or any other condition that can have a negative effect on their life. Wrapping Up I hope this guide through all the Labradoodle colors has helped you finally understand the differences between different types of these wonderful crossbreeds. All Labradoodles deserve to have a loving home just as much as every other canine regardless of their shades. Gray Labradoodle puppies may also be sold as blue or silver Labradoodles. So, finding a grey Labradoodle puppy can be quite a challenge. Your best bet is to work with breeders that specialize in this shade. What is a Grey Labradoodle? A grey Labradoodle is simply a Labrador Poodle mix with a gray coat. The exact shade of gray can vary from one Doodle to the next. Labradoodles of all colors come from two distinct lines: Australian and American. But, the Australian line also includes the Cocker Spaniel breed. There are two ways that a Labradoodle can get a grey coat. They will either inherit a dilute gene from each parent to weaken the black color to grey. Or, they will inherit the greying gene from their Poodle parent. Sadly, there are some health conditions that can affect the grey Labradoodle, depending on what causes their coat color. Genetics Behind the Gray Labradoodle Color Out of the parent dogs that combine to make the Labradoodle, the Poodle is the only dog with a standard, show-accepted grey coat color. And highly controversial to many purebred advocates. The two ways your Labradoodle can get a gray coat are: Inheriting the greying gene Inheriting two copies of the dilute gene All dogs have two basic pigments: eumelanin black and phaeomelanin red. When other genes interact with eumelanin, this basic black color can fade to grey. The Greying Gene The G greying gene is relatively rare in the world of canine coat color genetics. In fact, the Poodle is one of just 14 purebred dog breeds confirmed to carry it. So, a Labradoodle with the graying gene will have inherited it from their Poodle parent. Any Poodle — and any Labradoodle — can go grey over time. But, dogs that go gray from age can look quite different to Doodles with the graying gene. Labradoodles with the greying gene will often have a darker coat in puppyhood. But, as they grow it will fade to grey or silver. This means finding a grey puppy is harder, because they may turn grey as they get older, rather than being this color from the offset. The Dilute Gene The other way a Labradoodle can get a grey coat is by inheriting the dilute gene from both parents. Two copies of this gene will turn a black coat to gray. Altered black is calle d dilute because the interaction with other genes dilutes the full-strength black into a milder shade. Some may also call this silver or blue. The dilute gene is a recessive gene. So, a Labradoodle puppy who inherits only one copy of the gene will be a carrier, they will not be grey. A Labradoodle puppy will need to inherit a copy of the dilute gene from each parent dog in order to express it and grow up to have a grey coat. Other Ways a Labradoodle Gets a Gray Coat The greying gene and dilute genes are the two main ways for your Labradoodle to get a grey coat. But, other things can cause this coat color. Three other factors that can potentially cause a grey coat in the Labradoodle breed are: Age And health Age Just as people tend to get gray hair as they age, dogs can also go gray with age. This will usually start around their mouth and eyes. The extent a dog will grey from age will vary. So, if you want a grey dog from puppyhood, look for one with the dilute gene. Health Issues A number of canine health issues can influence coat color. One of the best known is thyroid dysfunction. Kidney and liver damage can sometimes cause premature greying. Dogs with dilute gray coats can suffer from color dilution alopecia, giving them patches of dry skin, thin fur, and poor hair regrowth. Finding Grey Labradoodle Puppies Canine genetics is a very young field. What we have learned is still dwarfed by what we have yet to learn. But researchers have developed some DNA tests that can identify whether a Labradoodle has inherited the dilute gene as a carrier to pass along or to express. So, if your heart is set on a gray Labradoodle, search for a breeder who is knowledgeable about canine coat color genetics. This gives you the best possible chance of selecting a Labradoodle puppy who will grow up to have a grey adult coat. These sellers are often much less concerned about selling healthy puppies. Puppies from these places can suffer from behavioral issues as well as health problems. Choosing a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder should always be your top priority. This may mean that you have to wait a little longer for a grey Labradoodle, but the wait will be worth it in the long run. Grey Labradoodle Rescue Another way to find a grey Labradoodle is to look in rescue centers. Labradoodles with the greying gene may not appear gray in puppyhood. But, dogs in rescue centers are usually a little older. Rescue dogs are usually cheaper than puppies from reputable breeders. Do You Have a Grey Labradoodle? The grey Labradoodle is an uncommon and beautiful coat color. Do you have one of these dogs at home, or are you currently searching for one? References and Resources. Contact Us Labradoodle Colors Australian Labradoodle coat colors colours come in a wide variety of options. Below is a listing of the different coat colors, coloring descriptions and what to expect with their coats throughout their lifetime. Caramel Caramel colored dogs have liver noses brown. Their range of coat color can vary between light yellow to almost red in hue. The difference in a caramel dog and a chalk, cream, apricot and red dog is their nose color. Chocolate True chocolates are brown in color. Many chocolates do fade over time. Cream This color comes in a wide variety of shades but it should be creamy in appearance. The nose pigment is black. The pigment for the nose is black. Parchment This color is a creamy beige chocolate color. It has been described as a cup of coffee with a generous addition of milk. These dogs are born milk chocolate and will develop their parchment coloring over time. The nose pigment is rose. Red True reds should be rich and dark in color and the roots should be no lighter. Sadly, this coat color tends to fade over time. The nose color is to be black. This color develops over the first years. Nose pigment should be rose. Chalk This color is a white looking color. However, if you were to compare it to a true white, it would appear to be more chalk-white in color. Nose pigment is black. Black Black Labradoodles should be solid in color with no sprinklings of other colors throughout the coat. Their pigment color should be black. Silver These pups would start out black and their silver coloring develops over the first few years of their lives. The color range can be anywhere from a light pewter to a dark charcoal. Silver dogs need to have black pigmentation. The blue coat will develop over the first few years. The color should be solid once they are full grown. It should be a dark-medium smoky blue. Lavender This color has a smoky lavender chocolate coloring that almost gives off a pink to lilac appearance. These pups are born chocolate and will come into their beautiful lavender coats over the first few years. Their pigmentation should be rose in color. Parti These dogs need to be at least fifty percent white, with spots or patches of any other above solid color. Full or partial saddles are acceptable, but are not preferred. Ticking in the white of the coat is acceptable but not preferred. The nose pigment needs to match the solid color. Any combination of acceptable colors is allowed. Nose pigment should follow requirements listed above based on the solid base color. Information and photos republished with permission from Australian Labradoodle Association Save Ready for your puppy? It might be tricky trying to predict the color of a Labradoodle pup, as this is greatly determined by their genetics. Labrador Retriever Colors Labrador Retrievers usually come in all solid colors. Most common ones include yellow, black, chocolate, red, white, and silver. Some of the more rare Labrador Retriever colors are, in fact, color combinations. These include black with white markings on the chest, black and tan, or brindle. The most common colors we see on Poodles are black, blue, silver, gray, white, brown, cream, apricot, silver beige, red, and cafe au lait. Additionally, some Poodles can also come in a variety of color combinations like black and brown, black and tan, black and apricot, black and cream, brown and apricot, brown and white, and many others. Labradoodle Color Chart Labradoodles come in all shapes and sizes, coat types, and colors. Apricot Labradoodles have a rich colored coat resembling the inside of a ripe apricot. Hence the name apricot Labradoodle. Apricot Labradoodles usually have a black nose and their hair color is typically the same throughout the coat. However, apricot Labradoodles may change color over time. Some pups fade lighter as they age and some are born with a cream coat that becomes darker over time. A red Labradoodle falls in a similar tone category as an apricot Labradoodle, but they have a much richer pigment and a distinctive red hue to their coat. Similarly to apricot Labradoodles, red Labradoodles might fade over time, which often results in a tan Labradoodle. Black Labradoodle A black Labradoodle comes in a solid all black coat with no other colored markings. Black Labradoodles also have black noses, black paw cushions, and eyes. On the other hand, like many other Labradoodle colors, pups who have a black coat may fade lighter into a more gray-ish tone over time. Chocolate Labradoodle a. Brown Labradoodle The chocolate Labradoodle is a rich brown Labradoodle. Chocolate Labradoodles can come with either brown eyes, or much more rare blue eyes. Their nose is typically brown or has a rose-y hue. As chocolate Labradoodles are so popular, it might be harder to get your hands on one. Cream Labradoodle a. Tan Labradoodle Cream Labradoodles have the signature beige-colored Doodle coat. The shade can vary in darkness and sometimes even have some gold or apricot markings on the face or paws. Their nose is usually black or dark brown. As their hair darkness can vary, cream Labradoodles are also often referred to as tan Labradoodles. Blue Labradoodle Blue Labradoodles are one of the more rare options out there. They are usually born with a black coat and as they age, they turn into a more gray-ish, smoky blue tone. During their first year from birth, their coat will change to match their skin tone. Their nose pigment is usually blue or gray that matches the skin. Most commonly, blue Labradoodles have brown eyes, but there are also the super rare, yet super gorgeous blue Labradoodles with blue eyes. Silver Labradoodle a. Gray Labradoodle Silver Labradoodles are very similar to blue Labradoodles. The silver can range anywhere from very light gray to dark charcoal color. Similarly to blue Labradoodles, silver Labradoodles are usually born with a much darker coat color. As they become older, their true coat color will start to appear. Again, this Labradoodle color is more of a rarity, and you should expect to pay more for a silver Labradoodle. For instance, a brown and white Labradoodle is considered parti, as they have a white base color with large blotches of brown throughout the coat. Of course, parti Labradoodles can also have other colors instead of brown, such as apricot, black, blue, or silver. Achieving a parti Labradoodle requires a ton of DNA testing to make sure the right genes are present. Therefore, this is again a more rare Labradoodle color. Black and White Labradoodle a. Tuxedo Labradoodle A tuxedo Labradoodle or black and white Labradoodle has a solid black base with white patches on the chest and neck. As you might guess, the white patches form a tuxedo-like pattern. Although there are also parti black and white Labradoodles, the tuxedo pattern is usually what people refer to. When it comes to Labradoodles, the black and white tuxedo pattern is rather difficult to achieve, making it another rare Labradoodle pattern. Sable Labradoodle Sable Labradoodles are usually born with a dark coat that lightens as the puppies start reaching adulthood. Once adults, sable Labradoodles have a solid base color, typically cream, apricot, or tan, with darker tips at the ends of the hair. Some pups keep the dark tips, while others outgrow them completely. However, sometimes their ears stay darker. Again, this is a more rare Labradoodle color, which might be more difficult to come across. Merle Labradoodles can come in a variety of shades. Some merles have blues, grays, and silvers, while others have chocolate, red, apricot, and cream. They have a solid base color with speckled patches of diluted colors throughout the coat. Phantom Labradoodle Phantom Labradoodles have a dominant base color, such as black or brown with lighter markings of another color on the face, chest, legs, and paws. The phantom Labradoodle comes with a distinctive pattern, where markings are placed above the eyes and around the muzzle. Abstract Labradoodle Abstract Labradoodles are very similar to parti Labradoodles. But with one exception. There are various color combinations possible, but the most common ones include white and brown, white and tan, or black and white Labradoodle. Brindle Labradoodle Brindle Labradoodles have a stripe pattern all across their body, which resembles much of a tiger. The darker color is more prominent while the lighter highlighted stripes are present all throughout the coat. Like many other Doodles, Labradoodles often change color or fade as they reach adulthood. Usually, Labradoodle puppies change color during their first year from birth. The fading or clearing is usually more prevalent in darker colored Labradoodles like black, brown, or chocolate. You can typically expect a black Labradoodle to fade into silver, blue, or gray tones. Chocolate Labradoodles tend to become tan, cream, or silver as they age. Behavioral problems usually stem from improper or inconsistent training. If your pup is acting up, we recommend you get in touch with a professional dog trainer or try an online puppy school. Having said that, there is a link between certain health problems and the merle gene. Merle Labradoodles have a slightly increased risk of blindness and deafness. For this reason, ethical breeders never cross two merle Labradoodles, as this can greatly increase the chance of complications. It all comes down to your personal preferences and which Labradoodle colors you prefer. All Labradoodles have a similar temperament and each of them comes with a unique personality. In addition to that, ethical breeders place their puppies into homes based on their temperament and personality to find the best forever home for each puppy. After all, the most important thing is that your new companion fits your lifestyle and household. Labradoodles often carry the fading gene, which is inherited from the Poodle parent. If your puppy is carrying the fading gene, they will most likely become lighter and fade as they start nearing adulthood. Black Labradoodles usually fade into silver or blue tones, whereas chocolate Labradoodles fade into more creamy, tan, and beige tones. The only way to determine whether or not your Labradoodle will change color is by DNA testing. The rarest Labradoodle colors are actually different color combinations and patterns. These include the parti Labradoodle, merle Labradoodle, phantom, tuxedo, sable, abstract, and brindle. In solid Labradoodle colors, the red Labradoodle is the rarest of them all. There are so many beautiful solid Labradoodle colors like chocolate, cream, apricot, and black. And then there are the rarity options like sable, merle, parti, and phantom. What makes it so difficult is that they all look absolutely adorable in their own, unique way. We hope this guide has given you a great overview of all the different Labradoodle colors and coat patterns. Parents of Labradoodles: What color is your Labradoodle and did they change color as they aged? Let us know in the comments below! Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation.

Looking for a nonshedding, family oriented, compassionate, intuitive, companion dog? We have puppies now and coming up. Contact us: text or voice. Our email is info cherryvalleylabradoodles. You can also DM us on Instagram! Are you worried about getting a healthy dog? All our moms and dads are extensively health tested. Our puppies come with 2 year genetic health guarantees. Do you want a breeder with a good reputation? We know our blood lines and we know they are healthy with balanced people-oriented personalities. We have a health guarantee that is fair and industry standard, and rarely necessary. If you read our instagram page , you will find many of our happy customers making comments and posted their own puppy pages. And we can give referrals. Contact us for current available puppies that are ready to go now. Minis are here. She is the sweetest, mellowest smaller girl I have ever know. Flops over for belly rubs. She is from a favorite long line of Cherry Valley labradoodles stretching back 20 years to our first imports from Australia. The sire, Indy is a complete and utter love sponge, loves hikes. We have a boy and a girl available from this litter. Ready to go home mid to late September. Call or text for info. SO excited about this combo. AND we will get some fun coloring, black, red and spots! Sabine is my personal hiking buddy and snorer under the bed. She is hilarious but takes herself very seriously. And let me tell you. When she nibbled the earphones into destruction, could she ever flutter those eyelashes like a diva princess of innocence. Amazing standard pups with therapy dog temperaments, excellent healthy lineage and fun colors!! Pups are here. Boys in creams and an apricot. Testimonials As a veterinarian I work with multiple breeders. Charl and Jerry Beauchat have been clients of mine for several years. Their dogs are always kept in great condition. Every puppy is health checked and micro-chipped prior to going to its new home. Providing healthy family members remains a priority of mine as well as theirs Jonathan CortezDVM We can not say enough about the integrity of your program. Pete and Jiffy …head and shoulders above the pack when it comes to a quality breeder…. Do yourself a favor and visit Charl and Shadow Mountain Labradoodles if you are considering a new puppy. We have made a full time commitment to our program. Three of us work full time with our dogs, puppies and families. Charl and Jerry are in Southern California, our daughter Jena, has branched out and is now carrying on our work in Oklahoma! We are also currently training 10 new Australian Labradoodle Breeders in California, Oklahoma, Washington, Texas, Utah, Colorado, Missouri and Ohio to bless families and to protect this wonderful breed! Shadow Mountain Australian Labradoodles are bred with love and care in a home environment. We work hard to place our puppies in an environment where both the families and the puppies are set up for success. Quick Links. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Rancho Cucamonga California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. He is the size of a Labrador Retriever. He was at the shelter where he came in as a stray. They treated him there for an ear infection and some mild skin inflammation which he has long recovered from. We did notice cloudiness in both eyes and were diagnosed with cataracts. Surgery was done to remove them and has recovered well but will need 2 different eye drops for life. He can be very playful with other playful dogs and loves to play fetch, or, can cuddle up next to you just as well. Walks are his favorite activity. He is also good with calm, friendly smaller dogs. He has not been around cats. With children, he does better with 12 years and older. Leon becomes attached to his human and will follow them like a shadow. He can be a little stubborn and will growl and snap at times when disciplined or if bumped while sleeping. He has been adopted twice and returned for this reason. Once he is comfortable in his new home, he will do it less. He may have separation anxiety at 1st, but with time and patience, he gets over it. He does better with a furry companion. He just needs someone to give him a chance. We believe he would do good in a house with a big yard, another playful dog, or an experienced, active family. If you want to meet Leon and see if he fits you, email us at heartandhomerescueorg gmail.

Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Maine? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Maine. Poodles come at different prices. Different things to consider are their height, size and weight, color as well as experience of the professional breeder. You will be able to afford one! Can breeders arrange travel for Maine Poodles out of state? Yes they do! The breeders, companies and businesses in our network know that perfect families do not always live close by, and sometimes far-distance travel arrangements have to be made. You may even be able to pick up your pup from an airplane close by or even around the corner - it all depends! How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Maine? We really care about puppies and their well being, so it is of the utmost importance that anyone who wants to be connected to us is screened under strict rules - and then they have to take our Breeder Pledge. The health of your puppy-to-be, its wellbeing, the way it is taken care of, the place it is brought up in - all of this matters to us. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Maine? The internet is available to absolutely everybody - and that includes scrupulous breeders who are out there just wanting to cash in by selling puppies. We care deeply for dogs and puppies and we love connecting good and honest breeders with families who just want to open their homes to a new and wonderful puppy. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Maine? A puppy mill is an awful place that is unfortunately legal. Dogs are treated terribly and all their owners want from them are their puppies which they make money out of. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Maine for sale now? We just need to know a little bit about yourself and exactly what you are looking for. Then begin your search and find the Poodle of your dreams. There are breeders, companies and businesses out there that are really excited to place their beautiful puppies in your home. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Maine? Poodles are actually part of a group of formal dog breeds. The Poodle is available in Toy size, Miniature size and large, regal, Standard size. They are highly intelligent and their origins belong to both Germany and France. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Maine? It is hard to monitor all the puppy scams that happen daily on the internet so we make sure that we have a secure Breeder Pledge and a strict screening process, in order to create the best of relationships between our customers and our breeders, companies and businesses. Our reviews reveal all! We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Augusta Maine and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! My name is Elizabeth and I have loved animals all my life. At 26 years old I found myself making some big life changes and needed a loyal friend by my side. The love of a breed was born. Melissa and I have partnered up on many projects through our decade of friendship so it was natural to set off on this journey together. My name is Melissa and I would describe myself as a compassionate animal lover who is committed to doing things right. I have a thriving Alpaca Farm with award winning alpacas, so I am no stranger to the importance of good genetics. What sets our family farm apart, however, is the loving bond we have with our animals. Our dogs live with us in our home where they receive the utmost care and love. My whole family has been transformed through these relationships. Elizabeth and I knew that our endeavor had to not only create top-quality dogs, but create an opportunity for others to have a fulfilling relationship through the heart-melting love of a doodle. She is our small standard Tri colored F1 Bernedoodle. Josie lives in a Guardian Home. She came into their lives just when they needed her and has filled their hearts with so much love. She loves playing outside and can be found looking out the window during the day hoping to catch a glimpse of the neighborhood wildlife. Josie is a momma to our medium sized Bernedoodles and she just adores being a momma. Josie's Puppy Gallery Meet Eve. She is our sweet standard Goldendoodle. She has a heart of gold that matches her gorgeous curly coat. Her coloring and award winning personality has always reminded us of the storybook character of Winnie the Pooh. She makes an amazing side kick and loves to go for car rides. She is always up for an adventure such as hiking, beach walks and even ice fishing. She is a momma to our standard Golden Mountain doodles and Goldendoodles. Eve's Puppy Gallery Meet Stormi. She is a small, merle colored poodle. We instantly fell in love with her gorgeous markings, sloppy kisses, and spunky outlook on life. She can often be found perched up on the back rest of the couch looking out the window or snoozing away. She is the momma to our Mini Bernedoodles. Stormi's Puppy Gallery Meet Willow. She is our standard Tri colored F1 Bernedoodle. Willow is a great mix of independent and cuddly. She loves to run and explore outside but at the same time, she loves to plop down her 86 pound body right on top of you for some ear scratching and nose nuzzles. Willow is a momma to our standard Bernedoodles. Kitty is a beautiful apricot and white mini Bernedoodle. She is the daughter to Birdie, who is our Matriarch, and Clifford our gorgeous dark red moyen poodle. She is a darling little ball of love and personality! Kitty inherited an adorable behavioral trait from her momma. When you ask her to smile at you, she will give you the biggest smile and shows you her pearly whites. Kitty is a momma to our mini Golden Mountain Doodles. When her face is shaved down, she has the most beautiful tan markings. Prim is a sweet, curious, and intelligent goofball. She has a love for figuring things out and will stay on task until she does. She is always keeping us laughing at her silly antics and we just adore this about her. She also has a gentle nature about her and it shines through when she is around our litter of puppies. She loves to sit beside the whelping box watching them and sneaking some kisses in. She loves children just as much as puppies. Posey has an outstanding personality and is just a joy to have around. She is mild mannered and goes with the flow of the day. As a puppy, it became clear very quickly that she was highly intelligent and she truly enjoyed her training sessions. Posey speaks to use through her eyes and they reach right into our souls. She loves to be close to us and snuggles up to us every night. Posey will be a momma to our medium and standard sized Goldendoodles. Miss Birdie is an F1b Bernedoodle who is goofy, loyal, sweet and full of life. We fell in love with this breed of dog after welcoming her into our lives and we want to share the joy she brings with others by making sweet red and white pups like her available for loving homes. She is our standard sable Poodle. Ruby is a spunky, sweet girl. Her main mission in life is to love on as many people as she can even if it means she has to jump a five foot fence to get to them! She produced sable, tri, and phantom colored Bernedoodles for us. Ruby's Puppy Gallery Meet Bea. She loves her people and her doggie siblings too. Bea is calm, nurturing, and was an amazing mom to her puppies. Her signature move is politely laying her head in our laps and looking up at us with her soulful eyes.

The long adolescent period that ends the puppy years is highly individual, but most dogs mature somewhere before 3 years of age. The Neonatal Stage This is the very earliest stage your German shepherd will pass through. Simply put, this is the helpless baby stage when your puppy's eyes will still be closed and he is completely dependent upon his mother. She will feed him, wash him and clean up after his accidents for the first two or three weeks. His eyes will open at around 10 days. At this time, your puppy is little more than an eating machine -- filling his belly to help his tiny body grow and develop. The Transitional Stage Though it is short and indistinct, the transitional stage from the neonatal to the socialization stage is important to your pup's development nevertheless. This brief phase -- lasting only about a week after his eyes open -- marks the period when your German shepherd begins to notice his environment. He will start to look at things curiously and be aware of sounds around him. Prior to this he has been in his own little world with no sights or sounds beyond his own body and that of his mother. When his eyes open, the immediate environment -- with other living beings -- is suddenly a part of life that he must face. The Socialization Stage At around 3 weeks, your puppy begins to learn how to interact with others -- both animals and the humans around him. He has already had some practice with dogs through the daily contact with his mother and litter mates, but now he begins to expand his circle of acquaintance to other dogs or cats in the household and to the family of humans around him. This is the most critically important phase in your German shepherd's development and helps decide his later suitability for work in rescue, service or as a family dog. At this time, he should have opportunities to meet as many new animals and faces under differing circumstances as possible, so he becomes comfortable with meeting people and other animals in a variety of situations when he grows up. This stage lasts to about 3 months of age and is the period when puppies are at their most impressionable and playful. The Juvenile Stage From 3 to 6 months old, your puppy will begin to look beyond the biological world of dogs, cats and people to the larger world around him. He will want to explore new places more than new faces at this point -- which may often get him into trouble. This is an active and trying age for puppy parents. Your puppy looks like a mostly grown-up dog but behaves entirely like a pup. His attention span is about as long as that of the average teenager, so this is not a particularly easy time for obedience classes. Your shepherd will have other things on his mind, but pet parents should continue to persevere because this is the best stage to resolve any obvious aggression or anxiety issues your pup may display. If those issues are not addressed early, they could become larger problems later on. To make things a tad more difficult, at around 5 months of age, your German shepherd starts to mature sexually. The Adolescent Stage The teenage angst that human children go through is roughly equivalent to what pet parents can expect from their adolescent German shepherd. Beginning with the onset of sexual maturity and lasting through the first two years of his life, your puppy's hormones will rage uncontrollably unless he is neutered early. This stage is usually marked by mounting -- anything and everything -- marking his territory and even fighting with other male dogs. Females will enter their first estrus period at this time and may try to escape the yard or otherwise pose problems. The pup's body has become adult, and his brain is fully alert and capable, but his emotions are still in the turbulent transitional phase from teenager to full adult. If he were human, this would be the stage at which you would hide the car keys. As an adult, your German shepherd is finally the calm, dignified, courageous and respectful dog you always knew he would grow up to be. If you were patient and dedicated through those early, sometimes difficult, years, you now have a well-trained and disciplined companion for life. More Articles. Are male and female German shepherds different? The Neonatal Period. Birth-2 Weeks. In the first two weeks of their life your puppy is mostly helpless and fully dependant on their mother. Their mother will be responsible for feeding, eliminating waste and keeping them warm. The puppies will be able to taste, touch and feel warmth but their eyes and ears are sealed shut. You should see the following milestones hit in the first two weeks. What you should expect to see: Puppies Starting to Crawl Eyes and ears starting to open Teeth starting to appear By the end of the first two weeks your puppies should be able to stand up, albeit a little shakily and have their eyes and ears fully open. The Transitional Period. They will start to be able to control their body and temperature much better. They will start to interact with their litter mates but will still be largely dependent on their mother. What you should expect to see: Puppies Walking Well Puppies Interacting with you and their littermates Puppy teeth almost complete. The Socialisation Period 4weeks — 3 months The puppies will now have complete control of their body and will start exploring the world around them. The latter half of this period is the ideal time to rehome the puppies as this is when they are most susceptible to learning new things and they can start to be taught basic commands. Between weeks your puppy may start to display signs of some fearfulness. This is perfectly normal and will need to be nurtured Not encouraged by you. What you should expect to see: Start showing adult behaviours Wagging tails, sniffing bums Start to be able to be taught basic commands Ears begin to sit upright. The Juvenile Period 3months-6months Your German Shepherd puppy will become much more independent during this period. They will start to understand dominance and will explore their home to understand where their position is in the household. What you should expect to see: Female puppies begin heat cycles Ears now fully upright Males reach sexual maturity The Adolescence Period 6monthsmonths Most of your puppies social understanding and behaviours will have developed by this point but a reinforcement of these is still important. Your puppy will be at their most energetic and will require a structured training routine to help them to continue to develop. Males are considered fully grown at 36months whereas females reach this mark around 24months. You will know have an excellent, loyal family pet and companion to spend many years together with. German Shepherds are a medium-large breed. Females will grow to around inches and weigh lbs whereas the males will grow to around inches and weigh lbs. How many puppies is there in the average German Shepherd litter? German Shepherd litters Usually consist of between 5 and 10 puppies. How long do German shepherds live? The average life span for a German Shepherd is somewhere between 9 and 14 years. Other than the size difference already discussed females tend to be more affectionate than males where is male dogs are usually more protective of their surroundings and their families. Related Posts. Though they typically only average nine to thirteen years, those years can be very memorable and special to dog and owner. Along the way, there are several German Shepherd growth stages that they will encounter including several fun and exciting breakthroughs. They will go through many different levels of development stacking up in inches and packing on the pounds. German Shepherd Growth Stages: This article will cover in detail, all of the month-to-month growth stages including their size from 1 month old to 3-year-old. It will also include important milestones along the way. This is the puppy portion of the German Shepherd growth stages and these cute little fur balls are beginning their journey into the new world. They are independent, spry and ready to explore! They are starting to grow but stand no taller than half a foot. Cuteness Factor: Through the roof! Height: Male: 4 — 6 in 11 — 16 cm Female: 3 — 6 in 8 — 14 cm Weight: Male: 5. They stand up for the first time. They start exploring independently and playing. Bowel movements are partially controlled. Light barking and growling begin. Puppy teeth should be filling in. This is a good time to introduce them to some kibble. They may or may not be interested. Month 2: Socialization Growth Stage Once the fuzz balls reach month 2, they start socializing more with other animals and people. This is also the time that their little chompers should be complete. They have grown up a little but still remain under a foot tall. Cuteness Factor: Just look at my ears! Height: Male: 7 — 9 in 17 — 22 cm Female: 6 — 9 in 14 — 22 cm Weight: Male: 16 — 20 lbs 6 — 9 kg Female: 11 — 17 lbs 5 — 7. They start to bond with animals and people. Their mental development starts to speed up. Fear reaction begins. They are typically ready to find their forever home. Food: Weaning should be wrapping up at this age. They should transition to a diet of puppy kibble. One and a half cups total three times a day is recommended but stick to a solid schedule. Vaccines: Puppy should have distemper and parvovirus by this time. Teething will be in full force at month 3 and their adult canines and incisors will start to push through. Those cute little fluffy ears may start to go up and down. They will start to lose their puppy coat and you may notice a racing stripe on the spine where the adult hair is starting to grow in. At this point they have almost made it to the height of a standard ruler. Cuteness Factor: Equal to fluffy pillows! Height: Male: 9 — 11 in 23 — 27 cm Female: 8 — 10 in 20 — 25 cm Weight: Male: 22 — 30 lbs 10 — 14 kg Female: 17 — 26 lbs 8 — 12 kg Milestones: Ears begin to stand up. Teething stage begins and continues for several months. Lots of biting and chewing ensures. Potty training and socialization should be consistent. Puppy fuzz begins to be replaced with adult double coat of fur. Food: Two cups of puppy kibble total three times a day is recommended. Vaccines: DHPP which includes distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus are recommended. Month 4: At this point GSDs will be very playful and getting into some trouble. They have left puppy hood and become adolescents. Multiple skills will be developing as they learn, socialize and train. Height: Male: 11 — 14 in 29 — 35 cm Female: 10 — 12 in 26 — 31 cm Weight: Male: 35 — 40 lbs 16 — 18 kg Female: 31 — 35 lbs 14 — 16 kg Milestones: Ears continue to perk up. Teething continues as adult teeth come in. They continue to play and explore everything around them. Training continues as they constantly learn. Food: Puppy should continue to eat two cups of kibble total three times per day. Vaccines: DHPP and rabies are recommended. Month 5: At 5 months of age, they are still growing fast and should have gained close to 10 pounds. They are still in the juvenile stage and have plenty of energy to go around. They are looking much more like an adult but still have that puppy spirit. Ears may have perked up at this point. Cuteness Factor: Cute as pumpkin pie! Height: Male: 14 — 16 in 35 — 40 cm Female: 12 — 14 in 31 — 36 cm Weight: Male: 40 — 49 lbs 18 — 22 kg Female: 35 — 44 lbs 16 — 20 kg Milestones: Ears may be standing up. Adult features are filling out. They are at least half of their adult size. They are still teething. Sexual maturity begins to emerge. Food: Juvenile should still be eating around two cups total three times a day. Month 6: Adolescent Growth Stage At 6 months old, they are making their way into the adolescent part of the German Shepherd growth stages. They will be starting to get into their sexual maturity stage which will last until they are around two years old. Hormones will kick in and males will begin to mark their territory and look for females to mate with. Females may go into heat for the first time. Their adult coat should be completely grown in but it could take a bit longer. Cuteness Factor: Equivalent to a teddy bear! Height: Male: 16 — 18 in 41 — 46 cm Female: 15 — 17 in 37 — 42 cm Weight: Male: 49 — 57 lbs 22 — 26 kg Female: 44 — 49 lbs 20 — 22 kg Milestones: Ears should be standing up. Adult features are more filled out. They are sexually active and will begin marking their territory and roaming for mates. Teething should be close to finished and all 42 of their adult teeth should be almost grown. Full adult double coat of fur should be present. Food: Adolescent should be eating around two to three cups total two times a day. Month 7: At 7 months old , a German Shepherd should be well developed cognitively. Their sexual maturity continues, and your leg may just become their next mate. Some aggression may be present as their hormones go up and down. Their weight gain begins to slow down for the first time only adding around 5 pounds from the previous month. They are looking much more like an adult dog. Aggression and sexual maturity continue. Teething should be close to finished. Food: Adolescent should be eating two to three cups total two times a day. They are still maturing and could still be aggressive and bark or lunge at other dogs, kids or people. This behavior must be reined in with the proper training. Teaching them new tricks is a great way to curb their aggression. Cuteness Factor: Still able to melt your heart! Height: Male: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Female: 18 — 20 in 45 — 50 cm Weight: Male: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Female: 53 — 57 lbs 24 — 26 kg Milestones: Ears should be well formed and perky. They continue to transition into adulthood. They are still maturing, and aggressive behavior may be present. Teething should be finished, and all of their adult teeth should be grown. Month 9: At 9 months old, German Shepherds have reached most of their milestones. They should be sporting a full set of 42 adult chompers and some nice big perky ears. They are still maturing sexually and could be exhibiting aggressive behaviors, but training should be in full force. Cuteness Factor: Not puppy cute but still irresistible! Height: Male: 21 — 23 in 54 — 59 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 64 — 71 lbs 29 — 32 kg Female: 55 — 60 lbs 25 — 27 kg Milestones: They are still growing but only gaining a few pounds a month now. Month By 10 months of age, GSDs are still trucking along in the adolescent stage. They will still be acting like teenagers and may be getting into some trouble. Although clever and smart they will sometimes act clumsy and goofy. They are still learning and should be in training. Cuteness Factor: Cute and nutty like peanut butter! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 73 lbs 30 — 33 kg Female: 57 — 62 lbs 26 — 28 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Month Moving into month 11, German Shepherds are becoming more and more adult but may be stubborn. They may start to challenge their owner with respect to leadership. They need to know that you are in charge and that they must respect your commands. Training and reinforcement is crucial during this time period. Cuteness Factor: Cute enough to get out of trouble! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 57 — 62 cm Female: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 75 lbs 30 — 34 kg Female: 60 — 64 lbs 27 — 29 kg Milestones: They are still growing slowly. Month 1 year old German Shepherds are moving out of the puppy phase of the German Shepherd growth stages and into adulthood. By now they have most likely formed a strong bond with their owner. They may still misbehave occasionally but proper training should be paying off. Food: Adolescent should transition to adult food and be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: DHPP, rabies are recommended. Year 1. They are getting closer to sexual maturity. Cuteness Factor: Furry and plushness overload! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 55 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 79 lbs 32 — 36 kg Female: 60 — 66 lbs 27 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Food: Adolescent should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Year 2: At 2 years old, they should be well along in their journey to adulthood. With the proper training and socialization, they should be transforming into the alert, confident, courageous, loving and loyal German Shepherd companion that makes them so popular among dog owners. They are pretty much full grown at this point with only a few more pounds to pack onto their athletic frame. Cuteness Factor: Perfectly precious! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 57 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 84 lbs 32 — 38 kg Female: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but almost full grown. Vaccines: DHPP is recommended. Year 3: Adult Growth Stage Your German Shepherd is finally an adult with all of the beautiful characteristics and traits that people admire. They have reached physical and sexual maturity and are ready to brave the new world. Consistent training should have payed off. They should be calm and well disciplined. Height: Male: 24 — 26 in 60 — 65 cm Female: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Weight: Male: 79 — 88 lbs 36 — 40 kg Female: 66 — 70 lbs 28 — 32 kg Milestones: They are done growing. They have matured physically and sexually. Food: Full grown adult should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: Rabies is recommended and can be required by law depending on your state. A full grown adult German Shepherd will stand approximately 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 88 pounds on average. However, some German Shepherds will get bigger even getting over a pounds. Hopefully your GSD is in the correct range. Keep an eye out for any deficiencies during their growth. These German Shepherd growth stages should help you determine all of the proper measurements to make sure they are right on track in their development. Each stage in their maturation is important. Remember to give them a high-quality healthy diet, plenty of exercise and sufficient training and socialization. These will all help lead to a stable and well-adjusted German Shepherd. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any experience with a growing German Shepherd? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. German Shepherd Development: From Puppies To Adults Posted on Last updated: Categories German Shepherds From early puppyhood to adulthood, German Shepherds undergo significant development that shapes their temperament, behavior, and physical abilities. As a dog owner, understanding the developmental stages of your German Shepherd is crucial to providing the right care and training. German Shepherd development consists of several stages. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. Contents Final Thoughts German Shepherd Development and Growth Stages German Shepherd development refers to the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur in German Shepherd puppies as they grow and mature into adulthood. These changes include the physical development of their muscles, bones, and organs, as well as their ability to learn and process information. Social development involves their ability to interact with other dogs and humans and to understand and follow social rules and norms. As a dog owner, it is important to understand the growth stages of your German Shepherd. Knowing what to expect during each stage can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. In the latter case, you need to know that the German Shepherd puppy depends on his mother for everything in these initial weeks. This includes food, warmth, and physical security. Here, your only responsibility is to make sure the dam is equipped with what she needs to fulfill her duties. As long as you feed the adult GSD right, she will be able to feed her babies and give them the warmth and company they need. You might notice that the puppies may seem asocial. Do not measure how the puppy interacts with other dogs for at least three to four weeks, which brings us to what you can expect within the next two weeks. This is where the puppy can wean off and not need a diet made up of milk exclusively. The puppy can consume solid food but is not too fond of it, especially if it is strange in texture. Your priority at this stage should be to get him to accept solid food without regressing to a diet of milk. There will be a social incentive in weaning off as the puppy will observe the litter he belongs to and notice a simultaneous change in feeding preferences. This brings us to a very important change: social interaction. I mentioned above that you should not worry about social disinterest up until the third week. However, by the fourth week, you should look for some interaction. If the puppy fails to acknowledge others in the litter or is getting shunned collectively, consulting an expert trainer or a vet can be helpful. Otherwise, the journey from being 4 weeks old to being adoption-ready is a long one, and it starts by accepting a human guardian. From weeks 4 to 5, the puppy is learning to accept a human usually the breeder as his guardian. Both dominant guardian and guiding guardian archetypes work in establishing yourself as the leader, but the dominant frame might box you into less palatable training tactics. German Shepherd puppies are quite intelligent, but a bulk of this cognitive ability is unlocked in two stages. The first is around the five-week mark. This could be the fourth or sixth week, depending on the individual puppy, but it is noticeable when the dog starts getting excited about other dogs. Of course, you need to be on schedule with socialization and carry-walks to notice this. Again, this explains why breeders usually keep the GSD puppies at this stage. Aggression issues can stem from excitement signaling menace. The opposite is true as well. Fortunately, professional breeders expose the dog to other dogs his age at this stage, and he learns to adjust how he shows and perceives excitement, making your life as a new German Shepherd parent much easier. But socializing your German Shepherd happens in stages as well. And of different ages. The wider the variety of people he gets to see and interact with at this stage, the more receptive he will be to people growing up. If your German Shepherd has seen only young people all his life, he might react differently to older ones and vice versa. This also applies to experiences. Exposing your puppy to experiences like car rides and ringing doorbells ensures that he will be calm in normal situations as he grows up. And in addition to getting your German Shepherd acquainted with normal stimuli like bells and travel, you must get him crate trained at this stage. Introducing the crate as a refuge and a secure spot as opposed to jail is a great way to get your GSD puppy to accept the crate. The more you delay this, the harder it becomes to crate-train a German Shepherd. If you want to check how his growth compares to the guidelines, head over to this article, When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing? This also includes a handy growth chart. This is a critical stage because if unchecked, your German Shepherd might end up hurting other dogs or be hurt by them. The watchful dog-parent in you that you were holding back has his chance to shine here. Make sure you keep a close eye on your German Shepherd and how he interacts with any other dogs in the house. The status-measuring step is one even adult dogs take when first interacting with each other. But at this age, dogs engage in prolonged status-measuring inquiry and either establish dominance or accept their subservient spot. You cannot force your German Shepherd to be the alpha in a relationship with another dog. GSDs are very physical, which is fine when two dogs play within the same breed. But if one of your doggos belongs to a relatively fragile lineage, you might want to consider some separation. If you are worried your German Shepherd playing too rough , click the link for some cool tips on how to limit rough play. The easier to walk your GSD is, the more enjoyable it will be for you both. This is better elaborated in my dedicated post on the fun exercises you can do with your German Shepherd puppy. At the same time, his physical energy levels are rising every day, which can be counterproductive as your German Shepherd can get uber-excited about physical activity. Make sure you have him on a no-pull harness instead of a collar-and-leash, so you can get him properly under control without hurting him. You can also see my other recommendations here. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. Discover the online program that more than 57, dog owners have used to rapidly transform their dog into a well-behaved, obedient furry friend. While looking through the different stages of growth you can see the rough size of German Shepherd puppies at different stages of their life by comparing the ages to a German Shepherd growth chart. Important Note: Once a puppy has been weened off milk it is essential that the puppy is given a high quality puppy food to ensure proper development. A lack of proper nutrients can result in ears not rising, smaller than normal dogs and health complications in later life. In my opinion Blue Buffalo Puppy Food is the best available on the market. German Shepherd puppies, as with all other dog breeds, are born with their eyes and ears closed. At this stage the GSD puppies are completely dependent on their mothers for care, food and the like and the newborn puppies are relatively immobile. A small section of the umbilical cord will still be attached to the German Shepherd puppy - this will dry up and fall off on its own within a few days. The first 3 days are the most critical in a GSD puppies life. Birth is the beginning of the neonatal period in GSD development and it lasts roughly 2 weeks. Typically the puppies will curve into a comma type shape when picked up. This is because their nervous system at this time is still very immature. Additionally, they can't eliminate unless the mother, or caregiver, stimulates their anus or urethra by licking or gently rubbing the area. Gentle, frequent handling by humans is very helpful from this age onward. As their nervous system development continues they will now also now arch their backs when they are picked up and held rather than curving into a more comma shaped position as before. Around Day 7 German Shepherd puppies now begin to crawl more readily and more often during this phase of GSD development. Short periods of daily handling and exposure to some stimuli can also be very beneficial to stimulate weight gain in the puppy, earlier eye opening, hair growth and motor development in all members of the GSD litter. The German Shepherd puppies eyes will appear to be blue in color at first even though they can't focus right now. They will be able to see shapes after about 2 weeks of age during continued GSD development. Around Day 14 The German Shepherd pups eyes and ears should be fully open by now and many may have their first incisor teeth beginning to erupt. The puppies should also be crawling quite well by this time. This is the beginning of the transitional period of GSD development which typically lasts about a week or so. This is also a period of profound changes in the German Shepherd puppies growth and development. The German Shepherd puppy will begin to be more independent from it's mom during this time. During this time the German Shepherd puppies will begin to eliminate on their own and should start walking within 2- to 3 days by about day 16 or so - very shaky at first, but with practice growing legs will soon become less wobbly. You can observe tail wagging as well as the beginning of play fighting. German Shepherd puppies will also be eliminating on their own by this time. Around Day 21 Around this date the German Shepherd puppy will move from the transitional phase into the socialization period of GSD development. By this time GSD puppies should be able to walk pretty well, with a more adult-like gait. They will also begin a more active exploration of their environments and that of their GSD litter mates. This period is thought to last from about 2. This is an extremely important time for the emotional and social development of the German Shepherd puppy. This is also a period of dramatic changes in your German Shepherd puppies life. This is the period in GSD development when puppies can form bonds with species outside of its own such as human beings. This is also the time when the puppy can identify their own species as well as being able to identify future social partners. Oftentimes, the peak of sensitivity to the formation of social bonds is described to be between 6 to 8 weeks of age. This is also called the fear period in GSD development! Around Week 4 By now social play becomes an important factor in GSD development and German Shepherd puppies learn how to interact with litter mates and adult animals of their species as well. They can also play with toys, play fight, play with humans and other animals and are beginning to eat other soft foods to supplement their mother's milk. Many times the GSD puppies are fearless during this time - exploring their environment and all that is about them. This is also a good time for continued exposure to new and novel things, to various people and other kinds of animals, all while the German Shepherd puppy continues to develop. The socialization stage is very important in the growth of GSD development, however it should be looked at within the context of the developing emotional system of the puppy. At around 3 - 5 weeks of age attraction responses in German Shepherd puppies are very strong. These kinds of responses begin to diminish between 5 - 7 weeks of age as fear responses begin to emerge. It is important to note that early socialization is tremendously important in the development of well-adjusted GSD puppies. During these few weeks, your German Shepherd puppy will also learn how to play and communicate with it's littermates, respond to humans it comes in contact with and how to get along safely in the adult dog world. Around Week 6 German Shepherd puppies begin exhibiting more adult like behaviors such as mounting of other litter mates and demonstrating dominance roles. Sniffing of tails and noses also becomes an important part of the greeting process among their canine peers. Between about 7 - 9 weeks of age the fear response may become so strong as to begin to overwhelm the attraction response. For other puppies the social motivation to make contact may very well overcome any wariness during this phase of GSD development. Around weeks 7 - 12 Among other things, this is an ideal age of socializing your German Shepherd puppy to humans, other animals and new surroundings and objects. It also a great time to learn such important skills as: leash training, housebreaking, crate training, accepting gentle handling and grooming and to accept human domination and control. The socialization period is absolutely critical in GSD development and acceptance of other animal species. If a GSD puppy is not exposed to horses, sheep, goats, other dogs, cats or small children before it reaches 12 weeks, it is likely it will never accept them. You may also observe that your German Shepherd pups ears are beginning to come up in some form or fashion. Don't be surprised by the wild and interesting shapes that they may take on as they mature. As the puppy goes through the teething process the ears will go up and down and will do all sorts of weird things - one up one down; one flopping to the left, the other to the right; both in the center, etc. This period is thought to occur from the end of the primary socialization period through sexual maturity. Motor skills are increasing for the GSD puppy. During this time the puppy is still refining both learning and social skills as well. While puppies in this phase can learn quite well, they are easily distracted and very hard to keep on task. This is an excellent time to start puppy kindergarten. This is also a good time to start being very aware of your GSD puppies ear carriage. Around 4 Months German Shepherd puppies will begin to lose their puppy teeth and will soon replace them with their adult teeth, generally starting with the incisors. Young German Shepherds will continue to learn about their environment and all the individuals in it throughout their social maturization process. This is often the time when older puppies are learning about their social relationships within the environment they live. Social maturity takes more time to achieve than sexual maturity. In the beginning of social maturity dogs will begin to display more mature, adult social behaviors. This time is thought to vary between breeds and from dog to dog and to occur anywhere from 12 - 36 months of age, especially in the larger breeds such as German Shepherds. Again, this varies from German Shepherd to German Shepherd but this is a good place to start. If your German Shepherd puppies ears are not standing up by this time on their own it is a good time to consider taping them. Detailed directions for this process can be found here. Overall, most of the puppies internal body systems are nearly "adult" even though the skeleton is still growing and will for some time to come. In many respects your German Shepherd puppy is now a "small adult". The heart rate has decreased again to about 70 BPM and by the end of this month the GSD puppy should have a full set of adult teeth. Also an important milestone: German Shepherd females reach sexual maturity and have their first estrus heat period. If the GSD's ears are not up by this time you need to take action quickly to get them up before it is too late. Read the article on ear taping. Around 7 - 12 Months German Shepherd males reach sexual maturity and begin to hike their leg when urinating. It is important to be especially firm and consistent about setting limits and enforcing commands during this time since your older GSD puppy may challenge dominance of other dogs or humans during this stage. If the German Shepherd puppies ears are not standing on their own by this point, there is a good chance that they will never stand on their own. This is an ideal age in GSD development to start "Beginning" level classes of obedience training. Bonding to humans is now very firmly established and your German Shepherds vocal and body communications are now that of a more mature individual dog - and more easily understood, and well on their way to many years of happy companionship with you. 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