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Many things that we call behavior problems are just Labradors following their natural tendencies. Most bad behaviors are caused by ignorance or lack of training. When we start seeing bad habits in our Lab we need to work on redirecting him toward more acceptable behavior. Fortunately, Labradors are eager to please and are easily trained, but it does take time and consistency. Natural vs. Abnormal Behavior Natural Behavior Many behaviors that become problems are just natural tendencies for your Lab. Barking, digging, and chewing are just a few of the things that Labradors naturally do but when they become a nuisance or destructive these behaviors need to be corrected. Owners need to keep in mind the natural tendencies of the breed of dog they have chosen. Many people choose Labs because of their intelligence. You need to keep in mind that with intelligence comes a tendency to get bored if not properly stimulated mentally and physically. They also choose Labradors because they are loyal and great companions. Since they are loyal they are also protective which means they will bark at any intrusion they think may be a threat. They love your companionship, so when left alone they may get anxious and chew on things. Part of being a good owner is to teach your Labrador acceptable behaviors that still help to meet the needs of his natural tendencies. Abnormal Behavior Abnormal behaviors tend to be more psychological. Many Labs can suffer from anxiety, excessive fear, and aggression issues. These behaviors are not part of their natural inclinations. Usually, for these types of issues, you will need professional help from a dog behaviorist or your vet. You will need someone who is trained to find the root of the problem and help treat your dog. Correction Methods There are several different methods that you can use to help keep your Labrador from destructive behavior. Redirection When your Lab misbehaves he is usually bored or looking for attention. If you yell at him to correct him he still perceives this as a form of attention and this only reinforces the behavior. Remember most of these behaviors are just natural Labrador tendencies. You need to calmly stop him from the behavior and redirect him to a similar activity that is acceptable. Once he is engaged with the acceptable toy, reward him for that behavior. You will see some more examples of redirection listed in the Common Behavior Issues section below. This just means removing the objects that tempt your Lab into bad behavior. It may mean keeping items off of lower levels where he can easily reach them and chew them up, or perhaps putting up a small wire-mesh fence to protect your garden. However, basic commands give your Labrador a foundation of structure. These commands start to teach him to listen to you and obey. If he learns to follow these verbal directions you can use them to redirect his attention and guide him toward better behaviors. Keep a Schedule Labs like structure. They like to know what to expect throughout their day. If you stick to a fairly firm schedule for eating, walking, play time, and bedtime your dog will know what to expect throughout his day and will be less likely to misbehave. Exercise Labradors often partake in destructive behavior out of boredom or to burn off excess energy. A good way to deal with this is to make sure he gets plenty of exercise. Take him for walks, play fetch, or go for a jog. A tired Lab is a well-behaved Lab. Mental Exercise This one goes along with the one above. Labradors are intelligent and need to be mentally exercised as well as physically exercised. Play a game of hide-and-seek or find-the-toy with your Lab. Teach him some new tricks or let him play with some type of puzzle toy. All of these things will help him use up energy and not act out because of boredom. Keep Them Indoors Labradors are social animals and love to be near people. If you tend to leave him outside a lot he will become lonely. This can lead to issues like excessive barking, howling, and digging. It is best for Labs to be kept indoors. Nipping and Rough Play Puppies tend to nip all the time. Their mouth is what they use to explore their world. If you allow them to continue with this behavior it can become a biting issue as they get older. Puppies who stay with their litters until they are 8 or 9 weeks old tend to learn the consequences of nipping from their littermates. They learn that if they nip too hard their playmate tends to yelp and run away. This teaches them that when they nip it can lead to the end of playtime. It is important for you to reinforce this information. When your puppy nips you, yelp like a dog and walk away. Let him know that this behavior puts an end to playtime. The same training can be used for rough play. When you rough play with your puppy you are teaching him that this is an acceptable behavior. That may be fine when he is a puppy but think about a pound Labrador wanting to play rough. When your Lab starts to play too rough then end the play time. Walk away and let him know that this is not acceptable. Once your puppy learns that certain behaviors end his playtime he will stop doing them. It is your job to teach your puppy to play correctly. Chewing Your Labrador loves chewing. You need to teach him. Once you have taken the object away give him a toy that he is allowed to chew on and reward him for chewing on that. Puppies usually chew to explore or expend energy. Older dogs usually chew out of natural habit but sometimes they chew out of anxiety, boredom, or fear. If your dog is chewing when you are around this is probably a regular behavior. However, if he only chews when you are away it may be stress-related. You will need to deal with the root of the problem and find ways to relieve his anxiety before you can resolve the chewing issue. Digging Digging comes naturally to dogs. They like to dig to bury things, to create a cool place to lay, and to hunt for critters in the ground. Unfortunately, when they are doing this they are often digging up your garden or lawn. A good redirection for this is to create a digging box for your dog. All you need is a sandbox filled with soft, diggable dirt. You may want to bury some toys to encourage him to dig in this area. When he digs in the box reward him for his good behavior. Excessive Barking All dogs bark. This is a normal behavior for them. They bark to let you know that someone is outside, that they are hungry, that they want to play… and the list goes on. Constant barking is not normal and it can be quite annoying for you and your neighbors. If your Labrador is barking excessively try to figure out why. Is he lonely? Is he bored? Labs that are left outside a lot tend to bark a lot, especially at night. They are bored and lonely and missing interaction. They want your attention and are making noise to get it. The best way to end this type of barking is to bring your Labrador inside. Some other ways to curb unwanted barking are to make sure your Lab has plenty of exercise and block out things that can cause him to bark. Play soft, calming music to keep him from being anxious. When he is barking excessively redirect him to another activity. It is usually a good idea to get him to sit first and calm down. Once he is calm give him something else to do. An occasional cheese or peanut butter filled toy is a great redirection. It is hard to bark when your mouth is full of peanut butter. Jumping Up When your Labrador is a puppy you probably encouraged him to jump up on you. It was so cute to watch him do that. Labs get so excited when they see you or any other human that they can befriend. They want to jump up and meet everyone face-to-face. One way to redirect this behavior is to start when your Labrador is little. Teach him to sit when he hears someone at the door and to stay until you allow him to get up. Quietly and calmly introduce him to the new person and reward him with lots of petting. If he does jump up, politely ask the person not to pet him but to turn away. He will learn that jumping up does not get him the attention that he is looking for. Occasionally you may have to remove the dog from the situation until he calms down. Begging Labs love food! He is also an optimist. He hopes that if you have food and he keeps begging eventually a tidbit will come his way. Redirect by teaching him to sit or lay by your feet during meal times. NEVER give him anything from the table. You will only be fueling his optimism. If you want to reward him with some scraps do it at the end of the meal in his regular dinner bowl away from the dining table. House Soiling If your Labrador has been house-trained for a considerable time, but then suddenly starts having accidents, he may have a medical issue. Sometimes these issues are caused by bladder problems, diabetes, or several other medical issues. If your Lab has arthritis it may be painful for him to go outside as often as he needs to. If you think it may be a medical issue take him to the vet and have him checked over. Sometimes this is a stress issue. Has something changed in the house? Did you get a new pet? If there is a reason for his stress try to work through that and see if it ends the soiling issue. If your dog is still young he may just be regressing a little. Go through the potty training steps with him again. Take him out frequently and reward him when he goes outside. Separation Anxiety As I have said before, Labradors are highly social animals. They do not like being left alone. That said, you will inevitably have to leave the house at some point. If your dog becomes overly anxious when you leave this could lead to other destructive behaviors like chewing, barking, etc. Try to desensitize him to being left alone. Start out by leaving him alone for short periods of time, then gradually lengthen the duration. You may also want to leave the TV or music on for your dog. Crating you Lab is also an option. It helps him feel more secure and less fearful. Dogs are pack animals and having another playmate in the house can help keep him occupied. Another option is to find someone who can stop by and take him for a walk every day. If your Lab remains extremely anxious then there are medications that can help. Talk to your vet and see what she recommends. Aggression Dog aggression seems to be on the rise. About 4. Roughly 10 people are killed by dogs every year. Most people-directed aggression is caused by stress. Sometimes it is also caused by pain. If your Labrador is in pain because of arthritis or another issue he can be quite snappish. Also, if your dog is losing his sight or hearing then he can be easily startled and snap at the person who startled him. If your Lab is acting out aggressively you need to look for professional help. Talk to your vet or find a good behaviorist. If you keep him entertained, well-exercised and give him lots of attention then chances are the behavior issues will decrease. Teach him alternate, acceptable behaviors and reward him when he behaves. If you see signs of major stress or aggression then seek out professional help. Taking care of your Lab and teaching him proper behavior takes time but in my opinion, the love and affection you receive make it all worth it! Featured Photo courtesy smerikal Did you find this article helpful? Click on one of the Share Links below to share it with a friend. Related articles:. Aggression towards people, other animals Hyperactivity Sadness, depression and being withdrawn Counter-surfing Digging …to name just the most common few! As previously stated, many of these are perfectly normal behaviors but unwanted when living with a human family. But some are real psychological or pathological problems that need to be properly researched and skillfully addressed, most likely by a vet or professional behaviorist. If the behavior problem is just one of normal canine behavior such as digging, barking, chasing small animals or pulling on the leash, natural behaviors but that are unacceptable or unwanted by an owner, then training alternative and acceptable behaviors in their place is the answer. This still takes knowledge of the particular cause and motivation of the behavior, knowledge and skill to choose and train an alternative behavior and patience and dedication to see the solution through. But these types of problems are solvable by the average owner and solutions for these problems will soon be appearing on this site. The sort of advice that can only really be given and be correct if offered by a qualified and knowledgeable professional. The first step is to see a vet to either identify or rule out any physical or pathological problems, and then be referred to a certified and reputable behavioral specialist. Many cases require a unique approach for which the only advice that can really be given is to seek professional help. We have to remember that Labradors were bred for a particular job and come with hard-wired instinctive and driven behaviors that we developed in them through many generations of selective breeding. Labs have needs and desires that have to be satisfied. They have traits and behaviors so deeply genetically ingrained that you simply cannot eliminate them. Although in most cases you can train alternative more acceptable behaviors. There are of course also more severe and worrying behavior problems, stemming from either pathological or deep-seated psychological issues. With understanding, patience, dedication, a caring attitude and a carefully planned scientific approach, almost all problems can be overcome or at least successfully managed. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Some may have seen i wrote a post about my muppet the other days in regards to his appalling behavior when coming inside the house. .We have tried suggestions on there and he's still mental as ever but we're trying to remain positive and patient with him. .My other issue is this behaviour is now becoming more apparent than before both inside and outside the house.He was normally quiet calm, hypo at times like any lab but was content with his surroundings and listening to us. At the moment he is completely different, he's destroying beds just lost number 4 , he's pulling washing off the line while i'm standing there hanging it out which he's never done we have it guarded off normally , he gnawing on my arms, legs, feet and even his toys are copping it surely he can't be teething at 10 months , he's jumping way more than normal, won't listen to commands which he always has listened too and feels that every time we open the door to go inside he will ignore us and come rushing in and run away so we can't put him outside. The only way we have managed to put him outside is with a treat and slowly walk with him to the door and gentle push him outside, which i feel is praising bad behaviour. Nothing different has changed in our routine, we have breafast, he gets a bone, we go for a walk in early afternoon, have a game later than afternoon then dinner around 5. He also repeated all this bad behaviour at my parents house yesterday when he too pulled washing off there line, nearly knock my father over from jumping up at him and wouldn't listen even to a deep mans voice. .He is desexed, and is getting a good decent walk everyday, only thing i can put it down to is slight separation anxiety, yet there is no whinging or crying like he has when he was a small pup, or his brain is on holidays. .Any help would be greatly appreciated. Let's Wrap This Up! Labradors mouth due to their ancestry and genetics. Having been bred to retrieve game for hunters, they naturally enjoy having things in their mouths. Dogs also mouth during instinctive play, when exploring, or relieve teething discomfort. Mouthing and play biting are not aggressive — and there is a significant difference between typical play biting and aggressive behavior. Adopt an immediate preventive training approach to prevent innate mouthing and play biting from becoming an aggression problem. But how? To stop a Labrador from mouthing, teach him his bite inhibition. This is where he learns to control the force of his mouthing. You should initiate bite inhibition when bringing your puppy home, typically around 8 weeks old. They soon realize if they bite their littermates too hard, the fun and play stop! The dam teaches good canine manners and disciplines her puppies when they bite too hard or misbehave. So how exactly do you do this? When teaching your Labrador puppy bite inhibition, make a sharp cry when he mouths or bites you and continue until he lets go. Quickly redirect the behavior using a chew toy, and reward him with a treat and lots of verbal praise. Continue to do this until your pup stops biting or learns to bite without hurting. You are undoubtedly on the right path when you first notice your Lab licking your hand instead of biting. Puppies chew to explore their new environment using their mouths, even before using their visual, auditory, and olfactory senses. They also chew to relieve pain and discomfort when teething, clean teeth, and strengthen jaws. But sometimes, chewing becomes abnormal or destructive, resulting in your Labrador destroying your couch, cushions, furniture, possessions, clothing, and shoes. Labradors engage in destructive chewing due to inadequate obedience training as a puppy, seeking attention, habit, easing hunger, boredom, lack of exercise, and insufficient mental stimulation. They also chew due to loneliness, fear, separation anxiety, malnutrition, or OCD. You will only cause your Lab to fear and resent you and cause confusion and aggression. As with the causes, the solutions for excessive-destructive chewing in your Labrador can be varied. To stop a Labrador from chewing everything, train him from an early age by redirecting his chewing to alternatives such as chew toys, treats, or bones. Fix incomplete training, or seek the help of a professional trainer. Essentially, you need to provide your Labrador with alternative chew toys that can also serve as bites. Consider these two from Amazon: KONG Puppy Toy is made from soft rubber designed for growing teeth and gums but durable enough to withstand the natural desire to chew. This multi-functional toy can be used as a fetch toy or treat-dispensing toy to stuff with delicious treats or peanut butter. It allows a good grip from the wishbone shape and lasts for weeks. You also have various sizes to choose from as your puppy grows. Here are some other helpful suggestions to stop your Labrador from chewing: Puppy-proof your home. You can use a playpen or baby gates to section off part of the house or use a long leash and keep him tied to your waist. Retrain your dog. If you think basic training was poorly done or incomplete during puppyhood, you may need to retrain your Labrador. Consider the help of a professional trainer. Give your Lab a bone to chew. Always supervise your dog when giving a bone. Feed frozen treats or ice cubes. These help your dog to find some relief from sore and painful gums. Try frozen strawberries or raspberries as an alternative healthy treat. Lots of daily exercise. Ensure your Lab has the recommended 2-hour exercise daily for an adult, which could consist of morning and evening walks or runs, and play and fun games at other times. Puppies should receive 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. Consider health issues. Labrador puppies will generally stop chewing, due to teething, around six months of age once the discomfort has gone. Older puppies may also go through a chewing stage up to 12 months old. As long as you keep normal chewing behavior from becoming destructive, your puppy should outgrow this chewing. They are easy to train due to their intelligence, but also their desire for food or treats during training sessions makes training easy. Many owners find it tricky to keep their Lab at a healthy weight. Labradors eat so much and are highly motivated by food due to genetics, illness, lack of nutrients, boredom, or anxiety. Many are obsessed with food due to a specific mutated gene, the POMC. This gene, responsible for appetite, body fat, and weight, is commonplace in the obesity-prone Labrador. The only other breed to have this mutation is the Flat-Coated Retriever. Your Lab may also be eating so much food to relieve boredom, stress, anxiety, or due to a diet deficient in nutrients. You can learn more about separation anxiety in the next section. Furthermore, specific health issues can cause increased appetite and cause your dog to gain weight. Labradors are prone to hypothyroidism and may become obese despite normal or increased hunger. Pica is a disorder where dogs eat inedible objects such as rocks, dirt, wood, socks, toys, or even poop! It can is caused by nutritional shortcomings, starvation, or psychological issues such as anxiety, stress, attention-seeking, or OCD. If your Labrador is snacking on rocks and dirt, he may be suffering from pica. There are many ways to stop your Labrador from overeating. However, your priority is to find out why he is overeating or munching everything in sight, maybe with the help of your vet. You can then formulate a plan together. Here are some suggestions. To stop a Labrador from eating so much, feed a highly nutritious and balanced diet, keep a feeding schedule, monitor portions and weight, and feed alternative healthy treats. Dogs are creatures of habit and love routine. Stick to daily feeding times and monitor portion sizes and calories. Do not allow free feeding, and have your Lab regularly weighed. Ensure your dog is eating highly nutritious food. Ensure your dog has a good-quality nutritious diet. Check out my article on the best diet for Labradors for a ton of nutrition information, type of diet, and more. Alleviate boredom. Not only does he need lots of physical exercise, but lots of cognitive stimulation too. Lots of chew toys and interactive toys will keep your dog entertained. Feed alternative healthy treats. Many store-bought dog treats are full of calories and additives and offer little nutritional value. You can choose some good healthy treats, but fruits and vegetables are better options. Dog-proof your home. Muzzle your dog. If your Labrador tends to eat anything he finds while out on a walk, consider using a muzzle. Separation Anxiety Canine separation anxiety purely means the dog cannot cope with being apart from his owner or family. But are Labradors prone to separation anxiety? Labradors are prone to separation anxiety due to their temperament. They are social, affectionate, friendly, good-natured, and high-energy, and soon get bored. They love to be around their pack, which means you! If they are left alone for too long, they will suffer from separation anxiety. Dogs with separation anxiety will find something to relieve their fear, worry, and stress, so they often resort to destructive behavior. General symptoms are destructive chewing, house soiling, digging, escaping, destroying furniture, barking, and howling. Repetitive behavior, pacing, and self-harm may also occur. Keep departures and arrivals low-key to stop separation anxiety in your Labrador. Leave your dog in a relaxing and comfortable spot with his favorite interactive toys and chew toys. Train him using behavior modification methods such as desensitization and counter-conditioning. You should never leave your Labrador alone for longer than four hours, even less for young puppies. Consider alternatives to prevent or treat separation anxiety. Reduce the time that your Lab spends at home alone by hiring a dog sitter, walker, or professional trainer. Have friends and family call around, use local doggie-day care, and work from home if possible. This toy will keep your dog entertained and is great fun, especially when he finds the treats! Stay connected with your Lab. How cool is that? Use behavior modification techniques. Counter-condition your Lab by training him not to associate departure cues, such as the sound of your keys jingling. The aim is to teach him not to worry about your exit by associating the sound of your keys with getting a treat. Hold back on the doggie kisses and leave! Use desensitization techniques. Gradually teach your dog to cope with being alone by carefully exposing him to being alone in small steps. For example, start by making progressive departures of minutes when you leave your Labrador and progressively increase. Train your dog to be alone from an early age. I would leave my girl in her crate for a few minutes at a time at eight weeks old and gradually increase. Treat with medication. Both anti-anxiety medicine and natural supplements can help treat separation anxiety in dogs. Your vet can advise you of the best treatment plan for your dog. Labrador Urine Marking Behavior Does your Labrador stop on every street corner to pee a small amount? Spraying is instinctive dog behavior, but why do Labradors mark their territory? Dogs will leave their scent on new smells or near where other dogs have urinated. Urine communicates the reproductive status and status rank of the dog. So, why do Labradors mark their territory inside? Labradors mark their territory inside when sexually active, especially in unneutered dogs, or claim ownership of you, e. To stop your Labrador from urine marking inside, neuter while young, keep new and unfamiliar items out of reach, supervise your dog or use a crate. Increase bonding with new pets or family, eliminate anxiety, rule out other medical reasons, fully clean up the mess, and consult a canine behaviorist if needed. Thoroughly clean the areas your dog has marked using an enzymatic cleaner to eliminate the smell and prevent further scenting. Myths vs. Barking at Other Dogs Barking is a typical communication behavior in dogs, and Labradors are known to be naturally vocal. Nonetheless, when your Lab has developed an unfortunate habit of barking at other dogs, this may cause you to wonder why? Labradors bark at other dogs due to a lack of socialization and becoming fearful or anxious. Other reasons are insufficient or incomplete training, being protective or territorial of you, or generally being social or excited and wanting to greet or play, especially if under-exercised or stimulated. How to Stop Barking. Work on obedience training and positive reinforcement, allowing time, patience, and consistency. If your Labrador also lunges when barking at other dogs, use a comfortable front clip harness. It is reasonably priced, easy to fit, and comes in different colors and options. Avoid gimmicks such as bark collars and sprays designed to teach your Labrador not to bark, as these only tackle the symptom and not the cause of the problem. Rolling in Fox Poo Bathing your dog can be a challenging task. Their ancestors would disguise their scent to confuse their prey. Dogs also mark their territory by leaving their scent behind and communicating their rank or dominance to other dogs. They also enjoy leaving their smell around. Sometimes, prevention can be your best tactic! To stop a Labrador rolling in fox poo, try to prevent it by keeping him away from known areas frequented by foxes. If your dog suddenly puts his nose to the ground, anticipate he may have picked up on the strong scent of fox poo and quickly distract him away. Resource Guarding Resource guarding is when your Lab displays certain behaviors such as snarling, growling, biting, and lunging over food, favorite toys, or space, e. It is also known as c a n i n e possessive aggression , and your dog might growl at you if you go near their treasured possessions or run away with the item. Although resource guarding is natural canine behavior, it is not desirable. Some owners prefer to try and change the behavior in addition to the usual precautions of keeping people safe, especially children. Early and frequent training can help prevent resource guarding before it becomes a significant problem. Nonetheless, here are some steps to stop your Labrador from resource guarding: Consult a certified trainer or dog behaviorist. Use desensitization and counter-conditioning techniques. Instead, we try to redirect the behavior. Like all other breeds, Labradors have innate behavioral tendencies that are unique. Think of their overwhelming friendliness and easy-going nature. They are a good first dog but make a hopeless guard dog! Your Labrador will develop into the dog that you train him to be. So when socialization and training are not done correctly, behavior problems will inevitably occur. And as you saw in the video, the first one is a lack of structured exercise! Insufficient Exercise and Stimulation The Labrador Retriever is a high-energy dog requiring at least two hours of daily exercise. Leash walking alone will be insufficient. Incorporate a combination of swimming, agility, frisbee, hiking, fetch, and off-leash running in a safe area. Your dog will also need lots of cognitive stimulation and interactive play. Research has confirmed that less active dogs will demonstrate behavior problems than well-exercised canines. Genetic Disposition to Certain Behaviors It has been scientifically proven that dog behavior has both genetic and environmental key factors. This is documented in a study on the genetic examination of behavior traits in dogs whereby the German Shepherd breed was utilized. The research confirmed the theory that dog behaviors are complex traits influenced by multiple genetic and non-genetic factors. In simple terms, your dog may inherit genes that urge him to retrieve. Your Lab may inherit genes urging him to find and recover, just like his ancestors, who retrieved ducks from the hunt. He has a natural desire to bring you back things. Unfortunately, this can sometimes include dead birds or squirrels! However, this does not mean that you cannot subdue the behavior through training. Field-bred Labradors are typically higher energy and more boisterous. Another inherited attribute of the Labrador is their strong pack drive. Extremely social dogs with high pack drives tend to follow their owners everywhere, even to the bathroom! One drawback to this trait is that they may find it difficult when left in kennels for vacations. Poor Puppy Socialization Poorly socialized puppies grow into badly behaved Labradors. This is when the puppy acquires nearly all of his adult sensory, motor, and learning abilities. If a puppy is not socialized well, he will become a problematic and untrainable adult. This makes him more confident and calm than anxious and aggressive in unsocialized and poorly trained dogs. Incomplete Obedience Training Obedience training is crucial in helping your Labrador understand what you expect of him. Then, he can progress to more advanced training, such as sit-stay, wait, speak, roll-over, and other tricks. Many new dog owners believe a week or two of training after bringing their puppy home is enough. Not so! Consistency also means using the exact words to command specific behavior from your Labrador. Aversive Training Methods Punishing your Labrador to make him learn good behavior will only result in the opposite. Your best friend will be so confused and only grow to resent and fear you. They can also cause aggression and escaping behavior. Positive reinforcement, also known as reward-based training, creates the best behavior in dogs because you encourage your pet to repeat good conduct by consistently rewarding him. It simply means giving a reward to increase the frequency of response. Hormonal Effects and Neutering Testosterone is often associated with aggression in male dogs, but studies have proved mainly inconclusive. Neutering is the surgical removal of the male testes or female ovaries. Research results from a large sample of over 13, dogs show that neutering does not necessarily reduce aggression. This interesting study showed no significant increase in aggression in sterilized dogs , except for those between 7 and 12 months of age. Scientists can still not explain this. Additionally, this study discovered that other hormones cause aggression in dogs. Oxytocin a hormone associated with social bonding and sexual reproduction and Vasopressin which maintains the concentration of salts and glucose in the blood plasma and the volume of water in the fluid surrounding cells can negatively impact dog behavior. Letting Your Labrador Run The Show What if you heard a Labrador owner say his dog never badly behaves, only to discover that the owner allows the dog to have the upper hand? Would you call that a well-behaved dog? Failing to set boundaries can be another reason your Labrador has behavioral issues. Dominance aggression is when the dog will try to be the alpha or single out one particular member to dominate. I can certainly relate to this, as my dog tried for months to boss me. Although I was as firm as the male family members, she never wanted to dominate them! Spoiling your dog is one of the major factors leading to dominance aggression in dogs. Medical Conditions or Malnutrition Your Labrador may show behavior problems due to medical issues, either physical, psychological, or both. For example, dogs with obsessive-compulsive disorder OCD may show tail chasing, circling behavior, vocalization, pica, self-directed aggression, and self-mutilation through biting. In this study , the most common clinical features of OCD in dogs were self-mutilation or grooming. Other medical conditions include injury and post-operative pain, which can trigger aggressive behavior. A hungry or malnourished Labrador can also cause behavior problems such as destructive chewing. Sometimes a history of starvation experienced by rescue dogs may leave them with an eating disorder in which they seek nourishment from non-food items known as pica. Owning a Labrador Retriever is exciting and rewarding for most owners. However, behavior problems associated with the breed can sometimes make it a challenge. What is most encouraging is knowing that you can manage these behavior problems. Exercise, training, eliminating triggers, and seeking a canine behaviorist are helpful and constructive ways to help your Labrador overcome his behavior shortcomings. You must practice patience and consistency every day and work at it. Good luck! Behavior Article Links Some of these problems might seem trivial to others. But when it is you that is losing sleep, dealing with complaints from neighbours or repairing destroyed furniture, it is not trivial at all. In this section we take a look at common Labrador behavior problems. We will begin by giving you some general behavioural information and taking you through an FAQ of common Labrador behaviour problems and their solutions. We will then give you links to our most popular Labrador Behaviour articles where you will find detailed answers to your behavior questions. Bad Behaviour or Bad Training? Others are more complex and require deeper investigation. Knowing why a dog behaves as it does, and what caused the problem in the first place is not always helpful. Sometimes it is simpler to just treat the symptoms in front of you. For example, some labrador puppies will become quite aggressive around food at an early age. Others will let anyone take their dinner. At other times, a good understanding of what causes a behavioural problem, and steps may need to be taken to manage the dog, perhaps avoiding the fear trigger. Resolving behavioral problems Treating Labrador behavior issues is normally tackled in one of two ways Training Management Problems such as jumping up, running away, night-waking, dragging you along on the lead, and food guarding, are all best resolved by training. At other times a management approach may be more appropriate. For example, a rescue dog that has developed a deep seated fear of children may simply need to be kept away from kids. The trauma to the dog of trying to desensitise it, and the time factor required to do so may be too great. It may be simpler to keep the dog muzzled in public and rehomed away from small children. Analysing Labrador behavior Our understanding of dog psychology has improved greatly in recent years, but perhaps there is sometimes a tendency to take an analysis of individual dog behaviour too far. If a problem with Labrador behaviour is disrupting your family life, it needs fixing, no matter what the root cause. Not only for the benefit of the dog, but also, in order that peace and harmony can be restored. Dogs do not fare well in households where everyone is stressed and upset. Not a problem dog? Whilst we cannot help loving our dogs, if we can avoid labelling them as having this problem or that problem, and just deal with any behavior that arises in a practical and appropriate way, I suspect their lives might be easier. Behavioral problems in Labradors can normally be successfully resolved. How do I stop my dog jumping up? Jumping up is quite cute in puppies, and of course many of us allow them to do this until they start knocking people over. Curing jumping up is not too difficult, but it requires patience and persistence. My dog is nipping my arms and it hurts! There is a lot of information on biting in small puppies on this website. But it can be very worrying when this behaviour persists, or reappears in an older dog. This is a common problem in families with a young dog aged between 6 and 18 months. At this age, your dog is still mentally a puppy, but he is now a very big puppy, and the biting really hurts. Most biting in older puppies is associated with over-excitement and inappropriate play rough housing with the dog. Check out these two articles for further information as well as the biting information link above. How to play safely with a Labrador How can I stop my dog whining? Dogs often learn to whine when they are crated or left. Happily, there is quite a straightforward training programme to teach your dog to be quiet in his crate. You can find the instructions here: click for quiet. Labradors love to carry things around in their mouths. This is partly because they are natural retrievers, but also partly because they soon learn that picking up your stuff gets them a whole load of attention! Avoid chasing your dog whilst he is carrying something as dogs love being chased, and this will only encourage him to run faster. So keep a little pot of yummy left overs in the fridge for this purpose. You may find your dog is less inclined to pick up your cushions etc, if you give him some soft cuddly toys of his own. Or you may need to pop a baby gate across the sitting room, to keep him away from the sofa and chairs until you are there to supervise. Help us stop our Labrador raiding the trash can! Some behaviours are so common as to be normal, and bin raiding is a universal problem for Labrador owners. And of course, he has all day to figure out how to get in there, whilst you do not have all day to figure out how to stop him. And punishing the dog when you return home and find the contents strewn across the kitchen floor, will only serve to make the dog fearful of you on your return. The best solution for bin raiding is therefore to place the can where the dog cannot get at it, or purchase a Labrador proof bin. How can I stop my Labrador running after other dogs? Most Labradors are very friendly indeed. And one of the biggest problems for many young Labrador owners, is getting them to come back when there are other people around, or other dogs to be played with. Teaching a dog to recall in the real world, where there are lots of temptations, is a skill. And it is one that you can teach to any dog provided you do so in a structured way. Check out our recall training centre for lots more information on recall in general, and this article: Proofing your recall which will help you teach your labrador to recall away from other people and other dogs. You might also find it helpful to read: Why has my recall broken down? My Labrador wakes up too early Early morning waking, or night waking is another annoying problem behaviour that may start in spring or summer as the lighter mornings set in. Sometimes there is a clear trigger for night waking to begin, but the waking carries on after the trigger is removed. In other cases, the early waking puppy just carries on early waking, with the addition of some increasingly demanding barking to hurry you downstairs. We look at night waking in some detail in this article. Night waking — how to restore the peace How can I stop my dog eating poo? This horrible habit is surprisingly common. We have devoted an entire article to what you can do to prevent or cure it. You can check it out here: Why dogs eat poop and what you can do about it. Eating poo is not the only horrible habit that Labradors may indulge in. Take a look at this article: Why do Labradors eat rubbish for more information and help. My dog is over a year old and still chewing up our home! We all know that puppies chew stuff. Especially when they are teething. But many people do not realise that Labradors can be particularly destructive towards the end of their first year, long after they are firmly in possession of a full set of adult teeth. This article: How to stop your Labrador chewing things takes a close look at chewing and other destructive behaviours, and what you can do to resolve them. My dog is so naughty… We all like a well-behaved dog. The answer to that is with a structured training programme. Behind every well behaved Labrador, lie many hours of training. Getting your dog trained may seem like an effort at times, but training brings huge rewards. A trained dog responds to your commands or signals without hesitation, not just at home, but when you are out and about, or visiting friends too. Getting to this point takes time, information and some effort. Check out How to cope with a naughty Labrador before you start. Then skip over to our training section. Once you make a plan and get going, training is actually a lot of fun. For you and for your dog. Getting started with Labrador training The pleasure of a well-trained and obedient dog are immeasurable. So do join the forum where you can chat with other labrador owners all at different stages of the training process. It is great to start training whilst your dog is young, but remember that a dog of any age can be trained. It is never too late to begin. There are many hundreds of articles on this site about Labrador behavior, why not check out the comprehensive list below for further help:. All in all What causes common Labrador behavior problems? The causes of Labrador behavior problems often depend on what kind of behavior problems your Lab displays, their personality, genetics, as well as experiences in life. This is especially true when you consider that there may be differing Labrador behavior by age. However, there are a handful of common causes of behavioral issues in Labradors. Boredom, for example, is a very common cause. Labradors have lots of energy and are very smart. If they feel like they have nothing to do, they may start chewing up pillows, being where they should not be, or digging holes in your backyard, among other things. These instances may be so problematic for you that you may end up wondering how to discipline your Lab puppy. Another huge reason why your Labrador is acting differently may also be because of a lack of exercise. Labradors are big, energetic dogs that need to burn their energy. Otherwise, you may find yourself asking at what age do Labradors calm down. When your Lab does not get enough exercise, they will be more likely to break things or disobey you. It may also result in a Labrador biting problem. Stress can also make your Labrador have a sudden change of behavior. They may start to look scared, shake, hide, or display other Labrador behavior problems that they normally do not show. Another reason behind your Labrador Common Behavior Problems May also be a traumatic or scary experience that your Labrador Retriever has had. This experience may have led to them having depression , post-traumatic stress disorder, separation anxiety, and the like. For instance, your Lab may have been involved in an accident that would cause them to be scared of and react violently to loud, sudden, or high-pitched noises. These may include sudden dietary changes that they may not be comfortable with, lack of sleep, feeling pain, or an underlying illness. Additionally, one other possible reason for your Labrador behavior problems may be that your you have too high expectations for your dog. It may only be that their general sense of fun gets them into trouble that they may mean common Labrador behavior problems for you. What type of Labrador common behavior problems may your dog develop? Scavenging It would not be unusual if your dog sniffs the kitchen floor to look for fallen pieces of food while you cook. However, it can be a problem if your Lab starts to dig through the trash and make a mess to look for food. However, you can curb this habit and decrease it. First, you have to make sure that you never let your dog eat off of the floor. Whenever you feed them, make sure their food is in their bowl. When you hand them food like treats, do not drop it onto the floor. Instead, hand it directly to their mouths. Additionally, you will want to try preparing some preventative measures. For example, if your Labrador always goes through the trash, you can get a trash can that has a cover that you can clip shut. You can also hide your trash can in a cupboard so they cannot reach it. Aggression While Labs normally have sweet personalities, it is possible for them to show symptoms of aggressive behavior. Common symptoms of aggression include growling , barking , biting, and showing their teeth. Typically, it comes from abuse , trauma, and past experiences. How you deal with it will normally depend on the severity of their symptoms and what caused it. Positive reinforcement and establishing dominance is an excellent way to help treat mild symptoms. However, you may need to see a specialist if your Lab shows severely aggressive behavior. Chewing Chewing will be a very common Labrador behavior for nearly all dogs, especially when they are puppies. Sometimes, it may only be that they are teething , as they often stop this habit when they have their adult teeth or when you train them. However, uncontrollable chewing that wrecks your furniture and other belongings is going to be a common Labrador behavior problem that you will have to learn how to deal with. You can control their chewing by showing them what are the acceptable things they can chew, such as their toys. Whenever they chew the right things like toys, you can give them treats to reward them. You can also make sure they get enough exercise. If your dog has too much extra energy, they will find other ways to release it, like chewing your stuff. Getting them enough exercise every day can help get rid of the temptation to chew. Excessive barking Dogs bark to communicate. However, excessive barking can be an issue for you, your family, your neighbors, and more. Your Lab may bark whenever they want your attention. Therefore, they might bark excessively if they lack attention. A simple way to help them feel more loved is by keeping them inside more often. Dogs that are outside the house and alone often feel lonely and will bark to grab your attention. You can also close your curtains if your dog barks at people walking down the street. Begging Labradors are hungry dogs that love food. However, that makes them more likely to beg for food every time you try to eat, which can be bothersome. To stop them, you should never give them food that you are eating. If you give them bites to eat while you are at the table, they will always come back for more. You should also redirect them when they beg to sit near you or lay down next to your feet. Digging Remember how Labs are smart? Well, they get bored quickly and will find a way to keep themselves entertained. Luckily, keeping them indoors with lots of toys can easily stop them from wanting to dig in your yard. Jumping up You may have found it extremely cute before when your Lab puppy would jump on your legs to get your attention and bite or nip your hand. However, it may be a lot more painful and bothersome now that they are fully grown adults. First, you should make sure to stay calm and not get mad at your Lab when you tell them to stop. Otherwise, they may think that you do not appreciate their greetings. What you can do instead is to redirect their behavior. This method is especially good to start teaching them when they are young. When they see you enter a room, tell them to sit and stay until you let them get up. Once they get up, you can pet them and hug them. If they try to do this to other people, tell the person to turn away and to discourage their behavior. It will help your Lab learn that they do not need to jump on people to say hello. Your Lab may just be acting the way they do because they do not know what is right or wrong until you teach them. For instance, scavenging and digging are natural instincts for dogs. So, if they start to do that, you have to teach them that it is wrong. Otherwise, they will not realize that they should not do it. More importantly, it is your job to teach them what they can and cannot do. Labrador Retrievers are generally very easy to train, so you can easily rectify any common Labrador behavior problem. All you need is a little patience. We have suggested some tips above that you can take note of to know how to stop common Labrador behavior problems when they arise. If you need these behavior problems in your Lab changed, you have to make sure that you train them out of it. Post navigation. Your dog is special! Chances are that you chose her because you like Labs and you expected her to have certain traits that would fit your lifestyle: Bouncy, cheerful, loyal, and enthusiastic Good with kids and other pets Above average intelligence and trainability when positive reinforcement training methods are used Loves to play games, especially fetch People-oriented and eager to please Even temper and gentle disposition However, no dog is perfect! Of course! Loyal and lively, these water-loving dogs make exceptional family members and hunting partners. They were valued by fisherman for their trainability, trustworthiness, and work ethic. Fulfilling their retriever name, they would dive into icy cold waters to help pull in fishing nets and occasionally catch stray fish that had escaped. Today the Labrador comes in two varieties: the American tall and lanky or English short and stocky. Whether American or English ancestry, there are three color versions — black, blonde, and brown. When given plenty of vigorous exercise and attention, these sweethearts are gentle and well-behaved in the home. All you need is a ball to throw and your Lab will love you for life! The Labrador Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Labrador. By knowing about health concerns specific to Labrador Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Labrador Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Labrador Retrievers. At the end of the booklet, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Lab looking and feeling her best. And unfortunately, your Lab is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. It starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination, which we will recommend based on the diseases we see in our area, her age, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Labrador Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Roundworm egg as seen under the microscope. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms, and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Labrador is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. For example, if your pet needs hip X-rays or a puppy tooth extracted, this would be a good time. This is convenient for you and easy for your friend. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions for common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. This means your Labrador is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off blood supply to the stomach, and sometimes the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as 30 minutes. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes out , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a chronic liver disease, called hepatitis, starting when he is middle aged. We usually diagnose it with blood testing and liver biopsy, and we treat it with medication and special diets. Signs of liver disease do not usually occur until most of the liver is already damaged or destroyed. Early detection and intervention with routine blood screening allows us to detect this problem at an earlier, more treatable stage. Bleeding Disorders Your Labrador Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test, as we may not know your pet has this disorder until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Hemolytic Anemia and Thrombocytopenia Labradors are particularly prone to some relatively rare diseases of the blood. If the immune system destroys red blood cells, your dog quickly becomes anemic, weak, and lethargic. His gums will look whitish or yellow instead of the normal bright pink color. Sometimes an emergency transfusion of red blood cells or platelets is needed. Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Labrador Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. Keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Illustration showing a tear in the cranial cruciate ligament of the knee joint. The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the four tough bands of tissue that hold each knee together. A torn cranial cruciate ligament is a common injury in active dogs, which includes your Lab. Usually surgical correction is done to stabilize the knee and help prevent crippling arthritis. Physical therapy and multimodal pain management are necessary to get the best outcome. Keeping him at the right weight, feeding a high-quality diet, and avoiding too much twisting of the knees like playing Frisbee are key in avoiding this painful injury. When Labrador puppies are allowed to grow too quickly, the cartilage in their joints may not attach to the bone properly. This problem is known as osteochondritis dissecans or OCD. If this occurs, surgery may be required to fix the problem. Feed a large-breed puppy diet rather than an adult or a regular puppy diet. Weigh your puppy every three to four weeks. Neurological Disease A genetically linked neurological condition that could occur in your Labrador Retriever causes a wobbly, drunken gait. This condition, known as wobbler disease or wobbler syndrome, happens because there is a narrowing of the vertebrae in the neck, which pinches the spinal cord and associated nerves. If the nerves do not send signals to the brain the way they are supposed to, your dog cannot feel his feet. The first signs you will often notice are unstable hind legs, stumbling, and sometimes falling. Medications, neck braces, rehabilitation exercise programs, and surgery are treatment options. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Labs have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars and require daily insulin injections. It is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Allergies In humans, an allergy to pollen, mold, or dust makes people sneeze and their eyes itch. In dogs, rather than sneeze, allergies make their skin itchy. Commonly, the feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for this condition. Bleeding Tumor Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Labrador Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Abnormal lymphocytes, as seen under the microscope, confirming a diagnosis of lymphoma. Lymphoma Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Labrador Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer, with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Treatment can be costly, however, and is a lifelong commitment. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Unfortunately, Labrador Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. The adrenal glands are situated along the vena cava the large vein in the abdominal cavity near each kidney. These small glands release many important hormones in the body. This is a common problem in dogs, and your Lab is more likely than other dogs to be affected. The condition usually develops slowly, and the early signs are easily missed. Symptoms include drinking and urinating more than normal, increased appetite and reduced activity level. Later, a potbelly, thin skin, and hair loss are characteristic. Treatment usually includes oral medications, and requires close coordination with us to ensure correct dosing. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary, or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, with Labrador Retrievers commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, they will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control, with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and effectiveness. Note the length of the seizure, and call us or an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some breeds like your Labrador can be born with a variety of heart defects. They can also cause problems with the electrical signals that control the heartbeat or with heart valve function. Special testing will be recommended if we hear a heart murmur or you notice any unusual symptoms such as tiring easily, coughing, a swollen belly, or fainting. Exercise Induced Collapse Exercise Induced Collapse, or EIC, is just what it sounds like — a young, apparently healthy Labrador collapses to the ground suddenly while exercising. In a few minutes, the weakness passes and he can get up again. Affected dogs cannot run for too long, especially in hot weather, so a day of hunting or strenuous hiking is probably not a good idea. Heat stroke can occur along with EIC. Limiting exercise is the only treatment and pet parents should be vigilant to avoid overheating. Genetic testing can be done to diagnose the disease and to screen dogs before breeding. Muscle Disease Labrador Retrievers may develop a disease of the muscles, called myopathy, somewhere between three and seven months old. Physical signs include bunny hopping, loss of muscle tone in the limbs, a stiff gait, or carrying the head low. Most dogs with myopathy are stabilized by twelve months of age, have a normal life span, and are suitable as house companions: no hunting or working! Taking Care of Your Labrador Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Lab live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. Brush her coat as needed, at least weekly. Labrador Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. Always walk your Lab on a leash, she has a tendency to run off after interesting smells and people. She has a passion for water and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease, or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help, and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Labrador Retriever needs help. For the most up-to-date information on DNA and other screening tests available for your pal, visit www. Your Labrador counts on you to take good care of her, and we look forward to working with you to ensure that she lives a long and healthy life. Please contact us when you have questions or concerns. References: Ackerman L. Second edition. AAHA Press; .Veterinary medical guide to dog and cat breeds. Jackson, Wyoming. Teton New Media; .Gough A, Thomas A. Breed Predispositions to Disease in Dogs and Cats. Wiley-Blackwell; .Canine Inherited Disorders Database [Internet]. University of Prince Edward Island.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Aussiedoodle Overview Aussiedoodles are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. They are medium to large dogs, with a height of inches and weight of pounds. They have a wavy or curly coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, blue merle, and sable. Aussiedoodles are known for their friendly, loving, and intelligent temperament. They are good with children and other pets, and they make great family dogs. They are also active and playful dogs, and they need plenty of exercise. Here are some of the specific traits that are common in Aussiedoodles: Friendly and outgoing. Aussiedoodles are typically very friendly and outgoing dogs. They love to meet new people and make new friends. They are also good with children and other pets. Loyal and affectionate. Aussiedoodles are very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and spend time with their families. They are always happy to see their loved ones, and they make great companions. Intelligent and easy to train. Aussiedoodles are very intelligent dogs, and they are easy to train. They are eager to please their owners, and they respond well to positive reinforcement. Active and playful. Aussiedoodles are active and playful dogs. They need plenty of exercise, such as long walks, hikes, or games of fetch. They are also good at agility training and other dog sports. Some Aussiedoodles are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Overall, Aussiedoodles are wonderful dogs that make great family pets. They are friendly, loving, intelligent, and active. If you are looking for a loyal and devoted companion, an Aussiedoodle may be the perfect breed for you. However, it is important to note that not all Aussiedoodles will exhibit all of these traits. Some Aussiedoodles may be more reserved or independent than others. It is important to do your research and meet a few Aussiedoodles before you decide if this breed is right for you. Grooming: Aussiedoodles require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. This can be expensive and time-consuming. Exercise: Aussiedoodles are active dogs and need plenty of exercise. This can be a challenge if you have a busy lifestyle. Training: Aussiedoodles are intelligent dogs and can be easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn at times. If you are considering getting an Aussiedoodle, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared for the commitment. They are wonderful dogs, but they do require a lot of care and attention. Aussiedoodle Highlights Aussiedoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Australian Shepherd or Poodle parents. Many Aussiedoodle owners claim that they are hypoallergenic dogs and may be better for allergy sufferers, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Aussiedoodles are smart dogs and require mental stimulation. If they become bored, they may act out in destructive ways. Some Aussiedoodles have wavier coats, while others have tighter curls like their Poodle parents. Aussiedoodles with shorter hair may be better for allergy sufferers, but it is not a guarantee. Aussiedoodle History The Aussiedoodle mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Australian Shepherds and Poodles in the late s or early s, likely in North America. It makes sense why the Aussiedoodle started booming in popularity, given how smart, playful, and cute the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd are. Even though the Aussiedoodle mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Aussiedoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Australian Shepherd or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Aussiedoodle Size As the Aussiedoodle is a relatively new breed — and there are size variations ranging from toy to standard for the Poodle — there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents, you can expect Aussiepoodles to range in size from a small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 25 to 70 pounds and range in height from 10 to 15 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. No matter their size, whether they are a smaller Aussiedoodle from a Toy Poodle or a larger Aussiedoodle from a Standard Poodle, you can expect this dog to have a lot of energy. You can keep your Aussiedoodle occupied with long hikes, walks, beach days, or retrieval games. Australian Shepherds are herding dogs, so your Aussiedoodle may try to round you, kids, or other things up! They are also incredibly smart, thanks to both their Australian Shepherd and Poodle parents, so your Aussiedoodle will require a lot of mental stimulation. If bored, Aussiedoodles can easily become destructive. Aussiedoodles also love to be around their humans. Like the Australian Shepherd, Aussiedoodles will sometimes get closer and stick with one or two of their favorite humans. Aussiedoodle Health The Aussiedoodle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Australian Shepherd and Poodle also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the most common health ailments Aussiedoodles suffer from include:. Lifespan Sociability The Aussiedoodle is considered a designer dog breed, immediately making it more expensive than other hybrid dog breeds. The cost of an Aussiedoodle puppy depends on the pedigree of both of the parents. Since poodles are one of the most well-known pedigreed designer dog breeds, some high-quality parental lines of Aussiedoodles may be costly. Because of their popularity, you may be able to find some in local shelters that will cost less and need the right family to love. The weight of an Aussiedoodle comes from the size of the Poodle parent. Typically, even with mixed breed dogs, there is not a significant fluctuation in size from dog to dog. However, regarding the Aussiedoodle, the size changes depending on the Poodle parent used to breed the puppies. If a toy poodle breeds with an Australian Shepherd, the size of the dog will be closer to 25 — 40 pounds. If the Poodle is full-sized, the Aussiedoodle is closer to 40 — 70 pounds. Even as a designer dog, the Aussiedoodle has a strong work ethic. The recognition of a designer dog gives this dog the wrong kind of reputation when it comes to its personality. The Aussiedoodle has a strong work ethic because of its breeding with the herding dog, the Australian Shepherd. It is a brilliant dog that functions better when it is consistently occupied. It can even do jobs like herding or be a trained hunting companion. The Aussiedoodle is considered one of the smartest dog breeds out there. Since they have a strong desire to please their owner, they are highly trainable, making them very agreeable dogs even for a first-time dog owner. Although this breed does not typically express a form of unkind stubbornness, they are clever and like to try and figure out puzzles to get what they want. For example, if you keep their favorite treat out, even well out of reach, these pups will often figure out how to steal them away. The Aussiedoodle is a highly energetic dog, getting this mostly from the herding and hunting tendencies of the Australian Shepherd in its blood. These pups can be kept in an apartment setting; however, they may quickly get bored with the same surroundings and may struggle with a bit of doggie depression or anxiety. Are Aussiedoodles Good for Families? The blend of intelligence makes it an engaging match for young children. The size of the dog keeps it from posing any threats, accidental or not, to smaller children or toddlers. Their energy is likely to match and perhaps exceed that of your children, keeping them all mentally and physically occupied during their playtimes. It is a highly agreeable dog, so introducing other dogs and cats in a calm and slow manner will normally be enough for them to accept them as a new playmate. They may even attempt to herd animals that are smaller than them. Know that this is not a sign of aggression. It is a mix of fruits, vegetables and whole grains which helps in keeping their weight down. These are also good for their teeth, bones, and coat. They would be benefiting from all that Omega-3 and amino acids in this meal. These are high-quality wet food that is formulated to improve their overall health. Like in training, this mixed breed would love some variety in their food, too. It is a great idea to alternate or mix dry and wet dog food to keep meals interesting. Although the Poodle Aussie Shepherd goggie is usually medium-sized, they may surprise you by how big or small they turn out to be! That is why it is good to be familiar with some of the best dry dog food for small dogs and the best large breed dry dog food that you can offer your unpredictable mixed stunner! Likewise, you need to procure the appropriate lefe stage nutrition for your doggo. If you have a cute, fuzzy yapper at home, buy them only the food by the renowned and best puppy food brands , and if you own a grandpa or a grandma pooch, opt for the best senior dry dog food. Consult with your vet if you feel like you are unable to find the right formula for your dog. Poodle Combined with Australian Shepherd Exercise Requirements These dogs need at least ninety minutes of activities each day. They are highly active and would love to go running, swimming, and other sports. Exercise is crucial for these hyperactive dogs to keep their energy levels down. Giving them a purpose is a great use of their boundless energy. They are people-pleasers and enjoys physical as well as mental challenges. Their lively nature drives them to work or seek play time with their owners, other pets, or even by themselves. Access to a yard will be highly beneficial, allowing them to play whenever they need it. These smart dogs love to learn and solve puzzles. It is an interactive feeding fun game that your dog would love. Both parent breeds, the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd, are working dogs. It gives them a strong aspiration to do a job. By using positive reinforcement techniques, they can learn quickly. Just show them what you want them to do and give them praise and reward once they did it correctly. They see training as a form of play, and the challenge makes them happy. Though it may be an easy task, here are a couple of things to help you effectively train your Poodle mixed with Australian Shepherd. When is the right time? The right time to start training your pup is on the first day they arrive at your home. As early as eight weeks old, these pups can absorb anything that you teach them — waiting up until their older is not a great idea. They can retain information and understand instructions very early on. When left untrained, you are at risk of raising a headstrong Poodle Australian Shepherds. Where to start socializing? You should get them to join a puppy kindergarten class as early as ten to twelve years old. It will help you start their socialization. Aside from formal training, you should also immediately begin socializing them with family members and friends. What should you teach them? The first thing that your puppy should learn is obedience. They are highly intelligent and active. They would love it if you can teach and assign them a job or purpose, like fetching the paper for you. It gives them the challenge and stimulation they need. As long as you are willing to teach them, you can make them do almost anything you want, and they would be happy to do it for you. How to train your puppy? You would need to be patient and consistent while training them. Positive reinforcement goes a long way. They can quickly learn if they see that it pleases you. You must also remember to restrict training in short periods. It is a good idea to scatter 10 to 15 minutes of training throughout the day. It is natural for them to try to nip or bump into you as they try to herd and keep the family together. But, you need to make it your priority to discourage it. You can reprimand them and subsequently divert their attention to a game. It is important as they should learn early on not to bite or bump into you while walking. This training would also help them to be safe around kids. Australian Shepherd Combined with Poodle and Families These charming and incredible dogs will fit right into a family with an active lifestyle. A lot of their time would need to be spent on training and exercise. Physical and mental activities keep them well behaved and healthy. They are eager to please, easily trainable, and highly intelligent. This way, they can just sit and relax with you while in your home. They are excellent with children, especially when properly socialized. Nipping and herding tendencies can be trained out of them at an early age so as to avoid it from progressing into biting. They are very patient dogs. Raise them well, and they can become the most loyal and affectionate dogs, that is why they are one of the most preferred breeds for service and therapy dogs. Cute and very friendly. They can get along with almost everyone, both human and other pets. The perfect companion, a Poodle combined with Australian Shepherd, will shower you with love and affection. Life Span Did You Know? The Aussiedoodle, sometimes also called an Aussiepoo, is a mixed dog breed that is more popular in the US than they are in Australia. They are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. Their friendly, sweet nature makes them a good fit as companions and as working dogs. They can often be found serving as therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Both of the dog breeds in this cross are intelligent with friendly dispositions. As such, Aussiedoodles tend to be intelligent, friendly, and affectionate dogs. This mixed dog breed is very playful and gets along well with children and other people and animals. They make great companions that are devoted to their families and love to be around their humans. Because of the Australian Shepherd in the cross, your Aussiedoodle may inherit herding instincts. If your Aussiedoodle starts showing herding behavior, it can be curbed early on by training to redirect that energy towards more positive outlets. The Aussiedoodle adapts well to change. They do well in most climates, but, as with any dog, do not typically do well in extreme hot or cold. They are best-suited for active families and homes with yards where they can romp around. Aussiedoodles can do well in apartments, as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. However, they do not like to be alone for long periods of time and they can develop separation anxiety. If you do have to leave your Aussiedoodle alone, make sure to leave them plenty of challenging toys and puzzles to keep them occupied. Although sometimes mixed breeds win the genetic lottery, they can also still sometimes be prone to the health conditions common to both of the parent breeds. The Aussiedoodle is generally a very healthy dog, but some common health issues to be aware of include hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia, deafness, and epilepsy. Checking the genetic history of the parents and asking for the results of any health screens can give you an idea of what to expect in a puppy and allay any health concerns. The Aussiedoodle is known for being an intelligent crossbreed. This often makes them highly trainable. They are also sensitive and eager to please, which means they respond best to positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Early socialization and training help your Aussiedoodle puppy grow into a well-adjusted dog. Due to their high energy level, they tend to be a better fit for intermediate to experienced dog owners that know how to handle their energy and keep up with them. Their intelligence, paired with their high energy level and working group background, means they are often easily bored and do best when they have a job to do. The busier and more engaged their job keeps them the better. They also love learning new tricks! Without a job to do, they will find ways to entertain themselves, which can result in unwanted or even destructive behavior. Between the Australian Shepherd and the Standard Poodle , the Aussiedoodle coat colors and patterns vary greatly. With the Poodle in the mix, this mixed dog breed can pick up some hypoallergenic qualities and is often low-shedding. However, they have can long, straight fur, a curly coat, or something in the middle, so be prepared for regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. You may also need to have them professionally groomed every months. Start getting your puppy used to you handling their paws and ears and brushing their teeth early on. Daily brushing is ideal to help keep tartar buildup at bay. An Aussiedoodle will generally have a moderate to high energy level. A good walk a few times a day paired with some active playtime and plenty of attention will keep this pup happy and healthy. Aussiedoodles are also active and athletic enough to compete in dog sports. They tend to be a good fit for flyball, agility, rally, and obedience. They may also love to swim, which is a great activity to help them expel extra energy. In addition to going swimming with your dog , you can also take your Aussiedoodle on a hike with you or on trips to the dog park. Aussiedoodles are medium-sized dogs that usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Looking at the size of the parents, particularly the mother, can give you a good idea of what size to expect in your Aussiedoodle. An Aussiedoodle generally lives for years. Aussiedoodles are fantastic companions and highly intelligent. Featured Aussiedoodle Article. Up to 10 in. Aussiedoodles could inherit either a curly and tight coat like the Poodle or a soft and wavy coat like the Aussie Shepherd. Dogs that inherit a coat like the Aussie Shepherd will need a lot of daily grooming and maintenance. Their coat also traps odours which is why you need to bathe them frequently. The colours seen in the breed are black, brown, white, cream, apricot, silver, beige, merle, chocolate, tri-colour, red, blue, cafe au lait, and combinations thereof. Do Aussiedoodles shed? Aussiedoodles shed but they shed very little compared to average dogs. It all depends on canine genetics. Generally speaking, F1b poodle mix crosses are less likely to shed than the first generation cross. Are Aussiedoodles hypoallergenic? Dogs produce allergens in multiple forms. Aussiedoodle Temperament and Personality What temperament is the Aussiedoodle? Are Aussiedoodles hyper? Aussiedoodles make excellent pets because of their happy and cheerful temperament. These deeply affectionate dogs love kids and make excellent companions for them. Before you go on to purchase or adopt an Aussiedoodle, please note that this is a high-energy dog with an exuberant nature. This means it could get hyper-excited around young ones. Your dog means no harm -it simply cannot control itself. Because of their high energy, they can be overwhelming for some owners — especially people with limited mobility or even for families with young kids. Their high excitability and energy mean that they often accidentally drop or break things. So, you might want to puppy-proof your house and also supervise all interactions between your dog and young kids. Obedience training combined with tons of physical activity can go a long way in helping your Aussiedoodle tone down its natural exuberance. Are Aussiedoodles hard to train? The smarter the dog, the more responsive it is to training. Since the Aussiedoodle is very smart, it is also highly trainable. Most Aussies are known to respond well to positive reinforcement training reward, praise, etc. It is important to be very consistent with the training. Keep the sessions short and end each session with plenty of playtime and fun. This will help you see results faster. Can Aussiedoodles be left alone? Aussies love their humans and usually hate being left alone for prolonged periods. Some Aussiedoodles are also known to suffer from separation anxiety accompanied by symptoms like crying, excess barking, whining, chewing furniture, digging, urinating indoors, etc. You need to train your dog to stay alone right since it is a puppy. As such, no dog should be left alone for more than hours daily. If needed, hire a pet sitter to watch your pet or, if possible, get a companion dog to give it company. Do Aussiedoodles like to cuddle? Aussies love napping as much as they love to exercise. But your pet still needs exercise and without it, it could become destructive, bored, and even depressed. Who should get an Aussiedoodle? The ideal owner for an Aussiepoo is someone who can devote time to this fairly high-maintenance dog breed. Also, Aussiedoodles require quite a bit of grooming including regular trips to a professional groomer. Since they are gifted with high intelligence, they need an owner who is willing to train using positive reinforcement, not punishment and also provide them with adequate mental stimulation. How Much Does an Aussiedoodle Cost? When searching for an Aussiedoodle puppy on sale, you must search for a reputable breeder. The best breeders spend a lot of time and money on finding the best dogs for their breeding programs. They conduct various health checks and only breed dogs that are cleared for eye problems and joint issues. This price can vary from breeder to breeder based on the location, size of the dog, and other factors like bloodline, coat type, level of shedding, colours, etc. Unfortunately, due to their popularity, Aussiedoodles are popular dogs for puppy mills and backyard breeders. The puppies are often kept in horrific conditions and they end up with health issues and temperament problems. So, make sure you research your breeder and find a responsible one who raises the puppies at home. What to Feed Your Aussiedoodle? In the first few days after your Aussiepoo puppy comes home from the breeder, feed it the same food the breeder was feeding it. Puppies have sensitive digestion and you do not want to overwhelm them with drastic food changes. Later on, your vet or breeder can guide you into selecting the right diet as your Aussie grows. If you plan to transition to a new food, make sure to do it slowly by mixing the old food with new food. If the parents of your Aussiedoodle are healthy, your pet should not have any health concerns. However, the breed is known to be sensitive to certain medications just like its Australian Shepherd parent and it is recommended to get MDR1 genetic testing. In addition to drug sensitivity, Aussiepoos are known to suffer from the following health problems: Hip and elbow dysplasia — in this condition, the affected joint gets worn out causing pain and lameness in the affected dog. Colobomas — Iris coloboma is characterized by the lack of iris development in the puppy. Thyroid issues — These could include hyper or hypothyroidism. The affected dog might show symptoms like unexplained weight gain, mental dullness, cold intolerance, dull coat, and dark pigmentation on the skin. With proper care and a healthy diet, most Aussiedoodles live for an average of years. Subscribe for doodle breed information and exclusive offers on the best products for your pup! 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Through the acquisition of breeding stock with the highest level of standards and a Champion Pedigree our goal has always been to produce dogs that not only show the standard appearance but have the emotional and physical quality that make the French Bulldog the second most popular dog in America. Health being number one our dogs are raised in a family environment with plenty of space to run and be a normal happy dog. Through selective breeding and staying with the approved AKC color models we have produced multiple Champions and will continue to strive to improve the quality of our breed. The health of our pups is the most important aspect of our breeding program. We maintain health records from day one. Find out more A Furever Friend Finding the perfect fit for you and your next Frenchie can be time consuming and challenging. Our website is intended to help you make the right choice with informative facts and information. This link to AKC will show you the best breeders in your area and give you choices that can help you with the process. Open the link, choose find a puppy, French Bulldog breed, give your zip coded search. We post our litters with AKC as well as our website. A French Bull dog will change your life in so many ways. Thank you for looking and feel free to contact us for any information we can help you with. Our Studs Rhett Rhett is a stout and handsome blue brindle that has sired many beautiful litters of healthy pups. He is a transplant from the east coast and currently lives in Warrenton, Oregon. Both his sire and dam were AKC champions, and their amazing genetics can be seen in him and his puppies. For stud service inquiries contact Charlie Louie If a rock had a brindle coat of fur, it would be Louie. He is on the smaller side for a frenchie stud. He has a great compact body and beautiful color and comes from great breeding lines. Combined with his classic frenchie personality he is just too cute to believe. He resides in Utah at City Creek Puppies. He is a very small, compact, short, and cobby boy. Perfect conformation, muscular, blocky head, great temperament, and perfectly healthy. He is available to stud in the Denver Colorado area, but does not breed within our related female line. He carries a variety of lilac, cream, pied, red, blue and fawn with mask, black, and blue. For stud service inquiries contact Jo .She has unique tiger brindle spots and a great frenchie body and face. This girl is athletic, spunky and playful. She comes from a Breeder in the Colorado Springs area. Her grandpa is a Great Grand Champ. She resides in Denver. Eclipse Eclipse is a beautiful black brindle Frenchie with a white chest and a couple Irish spots. She is the daughter of Storm and Yogi who comes from a Great Grand champ. She has the sweetest, most mellow personality and loves affection. Nova Nova is a Lilac blue through and through. She has an amazing coat with a little brindle sprinkled through her coat. She has amazing light eyes and is crazy athletic. She is a grand daughter of Moe and comes from very healthy parents on both sides. She has a very sweet, loveable personality and is very playful. She has an amazing color panel and could produce just about anything. Zelda is gorgeous red fawn pied with dark mask. She has a beautiful short and stocky frenchie body with a perfect head. She has the sweetest playful personality and loves everyone. She resides in Denver, Co. Andi Andi has a gorgeous Black almost tiger Brindle coat with a white chest. She has a great blocky compact body and a wonderful personality. She will have a great variety of color in her litters, Creams, fawns with blue and black masks, black brindle, blue, pied and blue brindle puppies. She resides in Warrenton, OR. Nebula Nebula is a beautiful Blue cover in Cream female. The blue can be seen around her eyes, nose, pads on her feet and her skin. She has the perfect frenchie body, is a great size, and beautiful head. She is a very easy going frenchie and gets along with anything and eveyrthing. She loves to be right beside you and follows you around everywhere. She comes from very healthy lines. We could get a variety of colors from her such as, Cream, fawn, blue, variety of fawn, variety of pied, and black brindle. Retired And Well Loved Gibson Gibson is a gorgeous blue fawn, solid as a rock, and on the smaller end of frenchie sizes. He is not owned by our family, but he sired several of our females. He is a champion living in Herriman Utah. He is a fine example of the high quality lines we breed. He is now living his best life in the Denver Colorado area. Storm Storm is a beautiful all blue brindle Frenchie. When people see her they always comment on her unique coat and how sweet her personality is. She loves to play soccer with the kids and is quite athletic. She came from a very reputable breeder in Nebraska with great bloodlines. Moonie Moonie is a lovable blue brindle Frenchie with a white chest. She comes from 2 great champion bloodlines and has a beautiful coat and personality to go with it. She has a very stoic look and color. She currently resides in Denver. Normandy Retired: Normandy is a majestic Blue Brindle with no white. She has a great build and wonderful temperament. She currently resides in Utah and is happily retired. Pearl Retired: If you can look at Pearl without instantly falling in love, you might not love frenchies! She was sired by Gibson. She resides in Oregon and is happily retired. Luna Retired: Luna is a Black Frenchie with a little brindle. She has a very sweet personality and loves people. Everyone is her best friend the second she meets them. Cici Retired: Cici has a very light cream coat, and such a perfect little frenchie look. She has a great disposition and sweet personality. Moe Retired: Moe has a very unique black brindle coat with a white chest. She comes from a champion bloodline and very reputable breeder in Utah. She has a very loving and loyal personality and wants to be the center of attention. She resides in Denver and is happily retired. Siya Retired: Siya has a gorgeous Blue fawn coat with blue mask, and such a perfect little frenchie body. She also comes from champion bloodlines and has had a great variety of color in her litters. Subscribe Sign up with your email address to receive news and updates. Email Address.

Questions about French Bulldog puppies for sale in Maryland? We have answers. How does French Bulldog puppies for sale in Maryland work? Back in the s, French Bulldogs for sale in Maryland were bred to be companion dogs in England. Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? French Bulldog breeders in Maryland are serious professionals when it comes to the breeding of French Bulldogs for sale Maryland and their French Bulldog puppies in Maryland. Then giving birth is all done by C-section, and all this costs a lot! How do I know that my puppy will be healthy? Do you recommend specific food for my dog? Every dog breed, even the French Bulldog for sale in Maryland is picky when it comes to food. Is it enough to walk my dog, or do they need more exercise? French Bulldogs for sale Maryland enjoy getting out in the sun as much as possible! French Bulldog puppies for sale Maryland like to play a lot in order to build strength in their growing muscles. Do you sell the cheapest puppies? The Maryland French Bulldog breeders, businesses and companies connected to us really take their time raising their Maryland French Bulldog puppies for sale in a safe environment where they can grow up healthy, happy and strong. They take care of them so that they can offer you the best service possible from the moment you choose the pup till it arrives at you! How does Uptown Puppies view transparency when it comes to breeding puppies? We at Uptown are stringent when it comes to transparency. How does Uptown work? Searching for French Bulldog puppies Maryland has never been simpler! Just scan through all the puppies on our site and choose the one you fall in love with! Then contact its breeder or business. Travel arrangements will then be put in order to get your pup to you - even if it means by plane, and voila! You will have your new pup, simple as that! How intelligent are French Bulldogs? They really thrive on being around humans, and getting their attention. In this respect French Bulldogs Maryland like pleasing their humans by listening to commands. Can French Bulldogs swim? Because of their stocky frames, squished-in faces, thick necks and short and wide bodies, French Bulldogs in Maryland are unable to swim. They love water, but unfortunately cannot swim. Bella meets Gertie. Frenchie TV Bella and her seven pups.This guy take swim class in the womb? FrenchieLove Happy new year !!!!! These cuties are two weeks old now with eyes open. Super Cool Dog Blog Woof! Bella, Leo, Gertie, Vivi and Dad got stuff to say. You got questions, we got answers; just ask! Do you have puppies for sale? We did, slow poke! Bella and B Homie had seven puppies on December 27th. They have all now been reserved and will be placed in their fur-ever homes at the end of February. But wait! To join the wait list for our three planned litters in .Can I visit and meet the puppies? That being said, on site visits with an accepted application and deposit will be allowed by appointment only. Should you fall hard for one of these little cuties but you live too far away to visit, we are happy to FaceTime with you and your Frenchie puppy of choice. When will your puppies be ready? Patience is nearly impossible when you see these mug shots, but eight weeks it must be. We promise to send a lot of pictures! Do you guarantee the health of my puppy? We guarantee our Frenchie pups health for one year from the date of re-homing. We also have our puppies examined by our incredible local Vet. Do you ship your French Bulldog puppies? Heck no! You have three options… Pick up in person. A special delivery fee based on distance does apply. How much is this going to cost? A lot. No, seriously. If you are considering adding a French Bulldog to your home, be realistic about the costs above and beyond the acquisition price. A responsible owner should have their puppy on a wellness plan, or, at the bare minimum, get all required vaccines and preventatives. Food can get pricey. Pet ownership, not just Frenchie ownership, can be pricey. All the love and happiness is worth it, but we frown upon selling your human children to afford a fur-baby. There are determining factors when it comes to pricing our Frenchies.Breeding rights. Delivery fee. How can I pay you? Let's first talk about the forms of payment we do not accept.Unfortunately, we've found, through experience, that a credit card charge can be reversed, even after the puppy has been rehomed! Sadly, unlike our puppies, some humans are not loyal or trustworthy. Cash apps made our political elites upset. They were missing out on taxes and fees, cause we all know we little guys aren't taxed enough. So instead of trimming waste or cutting Washington, DC budgets that are already overdrawn by trillions, they found another back-handed way to tax the citizenry; through cash apps. They snuck it into their, uh, "Build Back Better" bill; which, as we all know from decades of experience, will prove another pork feeding for the friends and family of these elitist politicians. Listen, we don't judge political affiliations, we just love Frenchies, but we do wonder why all us humans keep voting for the same Washington elitist who say one thing and do another, year after year after year.Oh yeah, sorry about that, let me get off my soap box. What forms of payment do we accept? Parle-vous Francais? Je parle Francais en peu. Okay, I took three years of French and this is what I remember. A French Bulldog Puppy should do the trick. How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Roll Pop? Bella, Leo and I all licked three times and then ate it whole. Will ask Gertie when she is older. You serious? If you want your Frenchie to stick around more than a year, we suggest a mostly strict diet based on your Veterinarian recommendations. We have fed our Frenchies Royal Canine since day one. There are other excellent options. Can Frenchies drive? Like a car? They will drive you crazy with cuteness. They drive a hard bargain. They are food driven. Oh, wait, you really are asking if they can drive a car? Unless you have a self driving Tesla, I suggest you, the human driver, remain behind the wheel. Get in touch Reserve Your Frenchie.A French Bulldog puppy is like the super cool kid at school, everyone wants a seat at their lunch table, but those seats go fast! Jump the line, slip a note to the lunch lady and join the wait list! Maybe you will get an extra Sloppy Joe! We will reach out when more fur-baby buns are in the oven. We have three litters planned for .Bayside French Bulldogs. Having a dog is very responsible, and one of those responsibilities is to walk the dog. Read the basics, how to walk your four-legged friend. In some cases, the roundworm can form a big ball, which blocks the intestines, which further leads to the death of a pet. According to experienced professionals, puppies faster and better adapted to carry. Unfortunately, many lightly attributable to the acquisition of the future family member and have only a superficial understanding of the rules of the content pet in the apartment. As a result of Dog in the house Dog - a real one, with the advent of each person whose life is changed. Someone enjoys wonderful moments spent with the animal, someone eventually get tired of careful care of them. Anyway, the pet will always meet his master with eyes filled with love an How to take care of a rising puppy If you have a puppy of a small breed, it will be easier to take care of it. You will need a comb and a small brush. If your four-month puppy has already overgrown grown-up pet dogs and continues to grow rapidly, now while walking you have to handle its to please choose. Be mindful of the first few days The next thing would be to prepare yourself for the next few days. Remember, all young dogs form a bond with their family and a previous owner. Thus, separating a two-month-old Frenchie can be stressful not only to you but primarily to your pet. Whatever the breed, they still pack animals, meaning they need their parents to survive in the first few months. The separation from their parents can mean danger. Thus, it would be best to prepare yourself for nights of whining, howling, squealing, and restlessness. The first few nights might be truly tough. Still, try your best to hold on and put the puppy in a place where it will not feel alone. It would also be best if you make a schedule with your family for the first few days. You can decide who among your family will play with the puppy. Giving the pup plenty of attention will relieve the separation anxiety and make the housebreaking process much more efficient. Make the ride home comfy If you took your Frenchie home through a car ride, it would be best to make it as comfortable as possible. In short, it would be best to have someone to accompany your pet instead of leaving it in a crate or alone in the backseat. Getting a health check If possible, it would be best to have your vet examine the puppy while still with the breeder. This way, you can make sure the pup is healthy. For this reason, always make sure you remember and follow all instructions. This way, you can take care of your pet easier. Choosing a Good French Bulldog Seller and Breeder While all French Bulldog pups are excellent pets, you can still go wrong if you choose the wrong breeder. If you want the best care and support for your pup, you also need to find a reputable breeder. In general, you can take these things as your guide in finding the right breeder: A reputable breeder will show all paperwork A reputable breeder would be proud to show all the paperwork it has for your pup. It includes the pedigree and health clearances. Thus, it will ask all kinds of questions. Thus, it breeds pups but not much and lets the parents rest and not mate all the time. A reputable breeder will provide you with feedback from other customers A reputable breeder would be proud to show the feedback and experiences of other customers. In fact, he or she will even show a connection to other breeders and vets. A reputable breeder would show his or her breeding experience. A reputable breeder would show the dogs in recognized confirmation shows. Further, he or she should have strong connections with other breeders. A reputable breeder only breeds a single type A reputable breeder shows its expertise if they focus only on a single breed and not multiple ones. Other states. Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water.

Breed-specific German Shepherd rescues in Georgia can be counted on one hand. However, there are several all-breed dog rescues that include GSDs in their rescue missions. We identified the best ones for you. Sanctuary To help you decide which Rescue is a good starting point, this article discusses the uniqueness of each. German Shepherd Rescues in Georgia Georgia has quite a number of rescues with a long history of saving dogs. Prospective dog owners can find German Shepherds for adoption in rescues dedicated to the breed or in all-breed rescues. We have examples of both options in the rest of the article. The non-profit organization began its rescue mission in with the goal of finding loving homes for abandoned GSDs. How the Rescue Works As an all-volunteer and purely local rescue, the German Shepherd Dog Rescue of Georgia places rescued dogs in the care of foster homes until they can find their forever family. Volunteering your time to rescue and adoption processes. Offering transportation services. Sponsoring a specific GSD. Adopting a German Shepherd. The rest of the adoption process steps will only be realized after the application is approved. These steps include a home visit, a meet-and-greet, and, eventually, bringing home your new pet. You can learn more about the mission of the Rescue and how you can lend a hand by visiting their website: www. Alternatively, send an email to [email protected]. The Rescue was founded to save German Shepherds from kill shelters but later opened its gates to other breeds. Her initiative to rescue GSDs was born from her love for the breed, having owned German Shepherd dogs for years. The founder had also been a member of a local GSD club for many years. For over 14 years, the Rescue has rescued and rehomed hundreds of German Shepherds and promoted responsible pet ownership in the community through education. Instead, the Rescue also ensures that every dog that comes to the Rescue has comprehensive vet care and proper training. You can also help through one of these ways: Donating funds and dog care items. Sponsoring and participating in fundraising events. Shopping through their page. Fostering and volunteering. Adopting a dog. To adopt a German Shepherd from Canine Pet Rescue, you will need to meet the following requirements: You must be a current or former owner of a GSD preferred for adult dogs but not for puppies. You cannot be a cat owner. You should complete an adoption application online. Volunteers at the Rescue will review your application and follow up on the adoption process with you. You must enroll in an obedience training class a week into the adoption. If you wish to know more about Canine Pet Rescue, you can: Visit their website: www. Email [email protected] Join their mailing list to receive news about available German Shepherds and adoption success stories. In , other self-driven volunteers joined the rescue mission. Today, the Rescue saves over pets every year. Reduce the pet population by neutering and spaying. Sensitize the public about responsible pet ownership. Coastal Pet Rescue entrusts saved pets to volunteer fosters until they can find a new home for them. However, the Rescue has a brick-and-mortar central location known as Camp Pawsawhile Retreat, which serves as the headquarters for the Rescues activities. Other ways you can take part in dog rescue and rehoming include: Volunteering long-term at Camp Pawsawhile Retreat or short-term at events. Providing a foster home for pets. Donating funds. Adopting a pet. Alternatively, you can join their adoption day events. Once you have identified a possible adoptee, you can make an appointment to visit the Rescue at Thomas Ave, Savannah, GA .Other steps in the adoption process will follow after the visit, including: Filling out an application form. Providing vet and personal references. Attending a meet-and-greet. Subscribing to their weekly newsletter. Emailing them through their contact form preferred over phone calls. Calling .The well-wishers were moved by the number of stray, abused, and abandoned dogs and cats. Since then, Angels Among Us Pet Rescue has given hope to thousands of pets by providing immediate care and finding them a new home. The Philosophy and Mission of the Rescue The Angels Among Us mission actualizes the philosophy of rescuing dogs and cats one by one until none is left. Apart from rescuing and adopting animals to their new forever-loving homes, the Rescue also works to educate the community on different topics, including: The plight of animals living in shelters. Responsible pet ownership. Becoming an advocate for homeless animals. Alternatively, you can make a donation or adopt an animal. To adopt a German Shepherd from the Rescue, identify your preferred furry friend by scrolling through the available dogs. I counted some GSDs on the list when I visited the page. The actual process of adopting a German Shepherd will require you to: Complete an application form. Respond to any email from the Rescue soliciting more info. Allow a member of the adoption team to assess your application and contact your vet and personal references. Allow a home visit. Sign the adoption contract and bring home your GSD. You must be over 21 years to adopt from Angels Among Us Rescue. Adopt a new best friend. By choosing to adopt, you participate in a statewide effort to provide homes for deserving and loyal German Shepherds. We cover all vet expenses and will purchase all needed supplies for your foster dog while they are in your care. Adopt a Dog Help us help future dogs. Donate your time. Campaign for fundraising. Transport dogs to their destinations. Make a difference in the German Shepherd community. Apply to volunteer with us and provide care for German Shepherds that truly need it. Apply to Volunteer We have found homes for hundreds of happy German Shepherds. Below is a list of German Shepherds that have successfully found a new home. German Shepherd adoption has changed our lives, and it can change yours, too. Bodie A friendly German Shepherd with a lovely black coat. Bodie was a lovely, personable German Shepherd that was finally adopted by a loving family after a long battle with homelessness. She also loves engaging in friendly play with cats! Jill Adopted in , Jill became a playful and positive addition to her family. Jill had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Now, she enjoys daily walks to local parks. Mesaba Once abandoned by his previous owner, Mesaba found a loving family in Georgia, who named him Mesaba after their Minnesotan roots. Mesaba now enjoys walks in the park, play time with friends, and a loving family. Giroux After previous domestic issues with cats, Giroux found a home with one of our volunteers. He now enjoys cheering up his new owner, who has previously lost a German Shepherd to age-related difficulties. Abbie After a history of neglect, Abbie was able to recover from her past trauma and find a loving and accepting home in .She now enjoys playing hide-and-find with new toys, playing in the local pond, and being part of her new family. Fletcher After abandonment from his previous owners, Fletcher was finally able to join his new and supportive family. He now enjoys long walks, lots of attention and plenty of space for personal recreation. Matilda Matilda was shy before reaching out shelter - but after some training, she was finally able to come out of her shell! She now spends time with her new family, receiving more love than she could ever imagine! Queen Adopted in , Queen is a playful and positive addition to any family. Queen had previously completed behavioral training prior to adoption, making her an asset to any home. Ike Ike is the life of the party. We are pleased to announced that after years of neglect, Ike was finally able to join a family of his own. Now, Ike enjoys playing with his new owners and enjoying a life of abundant love and affection. She was once abandoned by her previous owners, but with some care and rehabilitation, Lady was able to relocate to a loving family of her own! Schatzi Talk about playful! Schahtzi is a lovely German Shepherd that was able to join a loving family after a past of neglect. Now, she enjoys lots of exercise and good memories with his new family. See More Alumni Give in memoriam. To us, a dog is family. Every pet has a story, how they were rescued and what they meant to us. Tell us your story. Our rescue is recognized by the IRS as a c3 charitable organization. All donations to this rescue are tax deductible. Unlike some other rescue organizations, all our officers, directors and board, as well as all our group members volunteer their time and efforts to this rescue without compensation. Our mission is to find loving permanent homes for abandoned and surrendered German Shepherd Dogs in Atlanta and surrounding areas. Our rescue does not have a shelter facility, instead we utilize volunteer foster homes to care for our dogs until their adoption. We have several foster homes located around Metro Atlanta and the north Georgia area. Adoption Policy Owning a German Shepherd Dog can be an exciting and rewarding experience, but it is also a serious responsibility. Owning any dog involves a commitment of time and money. GSDRGA wants every German Shepherd Dog we rescue to become a beloved member of their adopted family, living happy and healthy for the remainder of their lifetime. Therefore, we have established these adoption policies to assure that you and your new German Shepherd Dog will enjoy a wonderful friendship for many years to come. Anyone requesting to adopt a dog must complete an adoption application prior to consideration and agree to a binding adoption agreement at the time of adoption. We do not adopt out of state. If you are interested in adopting a dog, you must travel to Atlanta to meet the dog prior to adoption. All adoption applicants are evaluated. Share A Story! German Shepherd Rescues In Georgia A small commission may be earned on any purchases made via links on this page. Read our full affiliate disclosure. German Shepherd Rescues In Georgia If you are looking for German Shepherd rescues in Georgia, you will almost certainly be able to find the perfect match for you at one of the rescues listed here. While there are only a couple of breed specific rescues on this list, many of the rescues for all breeds typically have a German Shepherd available at any given time. They are unusual for a breed-specific rescue in that they have a kennel as well as foster homes, enabling them to be more flexible than many other rescues. Canine Pet Rescue strives to place dogs in foster homes so that they will have a comfortable home environment where the rescue can learn about them. The kennel is a comfortable seven-run building on a horse farm owned by the founder of the rescue, Carla Brown. Carla has been rescuing dogs for over a decade, but it was after owning German Shepherds and getting involved with the local Schutzhund Club that she started a rescue focused on saving German Shepherds. All dogs that come into Canine Pet Rescue are: Spayed or neutered Brought up to date on vaccines Put on flea and heartworm preventative Microchipped Dogs are carefully evaluated for temperament. By the time Canine Pet Rescue puts a dog up for adoption, you can trust that they likely know a lot about the dog, which can be a huge advantage when you are adopting a powerful and intelligent breed like the German Shepherd. Dogs also receive some basic training. They receive crate training , housebreaking and possibly more advanced training depending on the situation. Usually, Canine Pet Rescue has between 10 and 20 dogs at any time. If you are not ready to adopt, but you would like to be involved, you can foster or volunteer with Canine Pet Rescue. Fostering is a great way to get acquainted with everything that goes into caring for a German Shepherd. It also lets you try out a number of dogs until you find your perfect companion. There are many ways you can volunteer with Canine Pet Rescue. You can help care for the dogs at the kennel, visit shelters to identify German Shepherds that need to be rescued, conducts home visits, and much more.

Breeds The link has been copied! Golden Retrievers are a beloved breed among dog owners and enthusiasts, known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and loyalty. However, many people may not be aware of the variety of colors that Golden Retrievers can come in. From the classic golden retriever hue to creamy white and even a striking red, the coloration of these dogs can vary greatly. Understanding the different Golden Retriever colors can provide insight into the breed's genetics, as well as help potential owners choose the perfect pup for their family. So today we will explore the various colors of Golden Retrievers and what they can tell us about these beloved dogs. All of the Golden Retriever Coat Colors There are three primary colors of Golden Retrievers recognized by most kennel clubs: golden, cream, and dark golden or red. However, it's important to note that these Golden Retriever colors can appear in various shades, leading to a broader range of hues within the breed this includes light golden retrievers and dark golden retrievers. The coat color of a Golden Retriever is determined by its genetics, with certain genes dictating the intensity and shade of its coat. These light golden retrievers have a soft, almost white hue that makes them stand out from the more traditional golden color. Cream Golden Retrievers still have the same friendly temperament, intelligence, and loyalty as their golden counterparts. They are known for their distinctive dark red or mahogany coat color, which differs from the more common lighter gold shades found in many Golden Retrievers. The Red Golden Retriever is not a separate breed, but rather a dark Golden Retriever color variation within the same breed. They make excellent family pets and are known for their gentle nature and patience with children. They are also highly trainable and excel in various dog sports , such as obedience, agility, and search and rescue work. The breed's origins can be traced back to the midth century in Scotland, where they were initially bred as gun dogs to retrieve waterfowl and game birds. The breed's development was primarily focused on function, and as a result, Golden Retrievers became highly skilled retrievers both on land and in water. As the name suggests, these dogs have a darker coat color, ranging from a rich gold to a deep reddish-gold hue. Like Red Golden Retrievers, Dark Golden Retrievers are not a separate breed but a color variation within the same breed. Dark Golden Retrievers possess the same temperament, intelligence, and trainability as other Golden Retrievers. They are friendly, eager to please, and make excellent family pets. Their gentle nature and patience with children, as well as their compatibility with other pets, make them a popular choice for households. As sporting dogs, Golden Retrievers excel in various dog sports and activities, including obedience, agility, and search and rescue work. They were originally bred in Scotland as gun dogs to retrieve waterfowl and game birds, which explains their instinctive love for water and retrieving. The Light Golden Retriever Light Golden Retrievers are a color variation of the popular Golden Retriever breed, characterized by their lighter gold or cream-colored coat. They are not a separate breed, but rather a variation in Golden Retriever colors Light Golden Retrievers possess the same temperament, intelligence, and trainability as other Golden Retrievers. They are known for their friendly, eager-to-please nature, which makes them excellent family pets. Their gentle disposition and patience with children, combined with their compatibility with other pets, make them a popular choice for households. Originally bred in Scotland as gun dogs for retrieving waterfowl and game birds, Golden Retrievers have an instinctive love for water and retrieving. The Golden Retriever can excel in various dog sports and activities, such as obedience, agility, and search and rescue work, thanks to their high level of intelligence and willingness to work. This coat color ranges from a medium gold to a dark gold, reflecting the breed's name. Like other color variations, the classic Golden Retriever is not a separate breed but a part of the same breed with a specific coat color. Golden Retrievers, regardless of their coat color, are known for their friendly, intelligent, and eager-to-please nature. They make excellent family pets due to their gentle disposition, patience with children, and compatibility with other pets. Originally bred in Scotland as gun dogs for retrieving waterfowl and game birds, Golden Retrievers have a strong retrieving instinct and an affinity for water. Their intelligence and trainability make them excel in various dog sports and activities, such as obedience, agility, and search and rescue work. Cream-colored Golden Retrievers are not exactly rare, but they are less common than the classic golden shades typically associated with the breed. The cream color is more prevalent in European lines of Golden Retrievers, particularly those from the United Kingdom. These lighter-colored dogs are sometimes referred to as English Cream Golden Retrievers or British White Retrievers, although they are still the same breed as their darker counterparts. It is essential to note that the American Kennel Club AKC standard for the American Golden Retriever states that the coat color should range from a light golden to a dark golden, with extremely pale or overly dark shades considered undesirable. On the other hand, the UK Kennel Club standard accepts the cream color, and these lighter-colored dogs can be successfully shown in conformation events in the UK and other countries. Differences in Cream Golden Retrievers vs Other Golden Retriever Colors While the most obvious difference between cream Golden Retrievers and other Golden Retriever colors is their coat, there are a few other distinctions as well. The cream colored sGolden Retriever can often have a blockier head and a more muscular build compared to their golden counterparts. This can be attributed to their English lineage, as English Golden Retrievers generally have these physical traits. In terms of temperament, the cream colored Golden Retriever shares the same friendly, intelligent, and loyal nature as other Golden Retrievers. However, some owners report that cream Goldens may have a slightly calmer demeanor than the traditional golden color. It's essential to understand that color does not dictate the quality of a Golden Retriever, and all colors within the breed can make excellent family pets. The most important factor when choosing a Golden Retriever puppy is to find a responsible breeder who prioritizes health, temperament, and breed standards over coat color. The breed was developed in the midth century in Scotland by Sir Dudley Marjoribanks, later known as Lord Tweedmouth. His goal was to create a versatile hunting dog that excelled in retrieving waterfowl and game birds, both on land and in water. Lord Tweedmouth started his breeding program by crossing a yellow-colored retriever named Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel named Belle. The Tweed Water Spaniel, now extinct, was known for its excellent retrieving abilities and curly, liver-colored coat. The offspring of Nous and Belle were subsequently bred with other retrievers, Irish Setters, and possibly Bloodhounds to refine the breed further. Over time, the Golden Retriever breed developed, with its friendly temperament, intelligence, and strong retrieving instincts. The coat color of Golden Retrievers has always had some variation, ranging from light golden to dark golden shades. The dark Golden Retriever, with its rich red or mahogany coat, is simply a variation within the Golden Retriever breed, likely influenced by the genes from the Irish Setter and other breeds involved in the development of the Golden Retriever. The Red Golden Retriever has a dark auburn or mahogany coat, which sets it apart from the more common lighter gold or cream-colored Golden Retrievers. This color variation is still within the breed standard and is not considered a separate breed. Apart from the coat color, the dark Golden Retriever can share the same breed characteristics and temperament as other Golden Retrievers: Temperament: These Golden Retrievers, like all Golden Retrievers, are known for their friendly, affectionate, and eager-to-please nature. They are great with children and other pets, making them excellent family companions. Intelligence and Trainability: Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and easily trainable. They excel in various dog sports and activities, such as obedience, agility, and search and rescue work. Exercise and Energy Level: Like other Golden Retrievers, they have a moderate to high energy level and require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. Grooming: All Golden Retrievers, including the dark Golden Retriever, have a double coat that requires regular grooming to reduce shedding and maintain a healthy coat and skin. Health Concerns: Golden Retrievers are prone to the same health issues as other Golden Retriever colors, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain types of cancer. Regular veterinary check-ups, a healthy diet, and proper exercise can help maintain their overall well-being. Coat color doesn't impact health or longevity. Instead, the lifespan of your pet depends a lot on its ancestry. You can read more about Golden Retriever lifespan here. Black Golden Retriever - Does it Exist? Black Golden Retrievers , as a true variation within the breed, do not exist. The Golden Retriever breed standard includes coat colors ranging from light golden to dark golden shades, but not black. If you encounter a dog that looks like a black Golden Retriever, it is likely a mix of a Golden Retriever and another breed, such as a Labrador Retriever or a Flat-Coated Retriever. The Flat-Coated Retriever is a separate breed that is similar in appearance to the Golden Retriever, with some differences. Flat-Coated Retrievers have a solid black or liver-colored coat, which is sleek, shiny, and lies flat against their body. They have a more refined and slightly longer head than Golden Retrievers, with a unique "Peter Pan" or "happy" expression. Both Flat-Coated Retrievers and Golden Retrievers were bred as hunting dogs with strong retrieving abilities. They share similarities in temperament, being friendly, intelligent, and outgoing. However, Flat-Coated Retrievers are often more exuberant and have a higher energy level than Golden Retrievers. Picking a Golden Retriever Puppy Color When picking a Golden Retriever puppy, the color should not be the primary factor in your decision-making process. The temperament, health, and overall compatibility with your lifestyle are far more important aspects to consider. However, if you have a preference for a specific coat color, here are a few things to keep in mind: Breeder reputation: Choose a reputable breeder who focuses on producing healthy, well-socialized golden retriever puppies with good temperaments. A responsible breeder will prioritize the health and well-being of the dogs over coat color. They should also provide health clearances for common genetic conditions, such as hip and elbow dysplasia. Breed standards: Familiarize yourself with the breed standards for Golden Retrievers in your country. Coat color and maintenance: All Golden Retrievers require regular grooming , regardless of their coat color. Be prepared to brush your dog's coat at least once or twice a week to reduce shedding and maintain coat health. Keep in mind that lighter-colored dogs may show dirt more easily, while darker-coated dogs may be more prone to overheating in hot weather. Personal preference: Ultimately, the choice of coat color of your golden retriever puppy is a matter of personal preference. Some people may prefer the classic golden shades, while others may be drawn to the darker red or lighter cream colors. Remember that coat color does not affect the dog's temperament or personality, so focus on finding a dog that suits your lifestyle and has a compatible personality. Final Thoughts on Golden Retriever Colors In conclusion, when choosing a Golden Retriever puppy, prioritize the dog's temperament, health, and compatibility with your lifestyle over coat color. If you have a preference for a specific coat color, work with a reputable breeder and consider factors such as grooming and maintenance. The most important thing is to find a dog that will become a beloved and well-suited companion for you and your family. For more helpful articles about pet-parenting tips, check out the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Want to know more about TryFi. This is the fastest way to find your dog after an escape. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Yet, cream is still a popular color in these dogs. To call these dogs anything but a Golden Retriever is wrong, though they get mistaken for Labradors all the time. The coat color of cream Golden Retrievers looks like an off-white. In other words, they might not accept cream Golden Retrievers in the show ring. They have the same great personality as any other Golden Retriever. In your specific country, they may be slightly more rare than elsewhere. For instance, cream Golden Retrievers generally have a thinner coat, so you may experience slightly less hair around the home. However, they shed just as much. Physically, the cream variations have rounder eyes with a stockier build. And similar to a cream colored Golden Retriever, the red variation is not recognized by the American Kennel Club and thus, not permitted to compete at shows. This dark red color can vary quite a bit from dog to dog. However, most of the top historians and researchers suspect that these red dogs originated from Ireland. A number of historians believe that breeders were able to achieve this color by crossbreeding standard Golden Retrievers with the Irish Setter , thus getting this magnificent mahogany color. It makes a lot of sense because the Irish Setter has this same hue of color. In addition, these red colored Goldens have a lot of physical features that resemble that of an Irish Setter. At least, more than a typical standard Golden. However, there are a few key differences in appearance — other than the coat color. Just like with the cream Golden Retrievers, these dogs tend to have shorter hair. Their hair can sometimes be straighter too — almost like a Labrador Retriever. You can also expect these dogs to have less feathering on the legs and tail. However, it can vary because there is no official breed standard with Red Golden Retrievers. Furthermore, Red Golden Retrievers also have a leaner and more compact frame than the standard Golden Retriever. As such, you are able to competitively show these dogs at AKC shows. And despite the dark color, you still get the lively energy, cheerful attitude and friendliness of these dogs. A good way to gauge how dark they will get is by looking at the color of the ears. Literally the only difference is the darker coat color, which is perfectly fine. In fact, many owners think this color is the most stunning of them all. For the most part, I agree with them. They may be the second most popular Goldens. The color is difficult to differentiate for the average person. However, dog enthusiasts and breeders will tell you that this color is somewhere between the standard classic gold and cream color variations of these dogs. The light Golden Retriever may be the second most common color for Golden Retrievers — second only to the standard gold. The light variation, like with the dark, also has the same temperament as any other Golden Retrievers. Most owners raise them because of their personalities, before appearance. What else do you need in a family dog and companion? Though they do shed, especially during peak seasons, Golden Retrievers are relatively low maintenance — making them great for all types of owners. Like with most large dogs, they still require a moderate amount of physical activity on the daily basis. They are some of the best dogs in the world. The only decision you need to make is what color you want. Which color of the Golden Retriever do you like the best? And if you have on already, which color do you think your dog is? Leave a comment below! Posts you may like:. Unless you got your dog from a breeder who specializes in one of these types or breeds English Cream golden retrievers your golden is probably a mix of both. But here are some characteristics of these two dogs: Field Bred Golden Retrievers These are dogs that were bred to hunt. And the most interesting thing, as it pertains to this article, is that many field golden retrievers are red. These goldens still have that sweet, loving golden retriever personality we all love. Show Golden Retrievers Show golden retrievers are stockier than field golden retrievers with blocky heads and longer coats. They also tend to be a little more calm and need less mental stimulation and exercise. Read this article for more about different types of golden retrievers. But how common are each of these three colors? White and black. The big misconception here is black golden retrievers. Looks just like a golden, right?! Because of this, they will always be some shade of gold or red, and will never have a black coat. Your puppy will most likely be some blend of their parents. Sure, two dark gold golden retrievers may produce some lighter-color puppies, but the chances of two red goldens producing a cream-colored golden are unlikely. Does Color Matter? You can do that by ensuring the parents have their health clearances and meeting the parents beforehand to see if you like their personality. Golden Retrievers are a popular dog breed known for their friendly, loyal, and intelligent personalities. While they are all the same breed, they do come in three different types. All three types are similar, and there can be a lot of overlap between the types. This means that although some individual Goldens may be obviously of one type, others may not be easy to place into one of these types just by looking at them. The differences are mostly in how they look. The traits that define a Golden Retriever: loyalty, devotion to their family, intelligence, and fun-loving attitude are present in all the types. While each of the types above have their distinct colors, there are also many shades of each color. To learn how to quickly identify the difference between each type of Golden Retriever, be sure to read on! American Golden Retrievers Probably one of the most iconic types of Golden Retrievers, the American stands out against its counterparts as a delicate, family-friendly dog. This subcategory of the Golden Retriever family has quite a few physical aspects that make it recognizable. These aspects are: Overall Size — The overall size of the American Golden Retriever is usually more petite than its counterparts. They are categorized as having lankier and less muscular bodies. This darker coat is emphasized when compared directly to English and Canadian cousins. Trotting Gait — Oddly enough, the American Golden Retriever has a very specific gait or way of walking. Physical Requirements of American Golden Retriever This subcategory also has very specific physical requirements that have to be met before a dog can be officially deemed an American Golden Retriever. The specific measurements of the national standards for American Goldens are defined by the American Kennel Club. Nothing should be super prominent, especially the forehead or any sunken eyes. Neck — Should be strong in character with no obvious obtrusions and smoothly transition into the shoulders. Body — The body should be well-balanced and have no barrel-shaped ribs. Topline — The topline should be smooth and even with no bumps or out-of-place areas. Forequarters— A bit more on the muscular side, with everything still sitting relaxed. Hindquarters— Should be the most muscular part of the dog with a pelvic bone that sits at an angle of 30 degrees from the horizon. Almost indistinguishable from their American Golden Retriever counterparts, there are still a few main physical differences that set them apart. According to the Australian National Kennel Council , there are three main physical properties of an English Golden Retriever, but I have added a few more that are often noted. Skull Shape — The skull of an English Golden Retriever is usually broader with a balanced and chiseled muzzle. These are most likely remnants of the original breeding process with the now-extinct Tweed Water Spaniel. Coat Color — The coat color is usually lighter when compared to the American or Canadian counterparts. Even the light golden is brighter for the English Golden Retriever than the other nationalities! Eyes — English Golden Retrievers have a rounder eye shape, as well as a darker eye color. This can be emphasized when compared to the American standard for Golden Retrievers. Coat Type — English Golden Retrievers tend to have shorter waiver fur than American Golden Retrievers, although the difference can be subtle. According to Golden Rescue , there are three main physical differences between a Canadian Golden and an American or English Golden that will make them easier to differentiate from one another. It is also thinner than its counterparts. Denser Fur — Not only is a Canadian Golden Retriever coat shorter and thinner, but their fur is usually denser. Body Type- Typically, a Canadian Golden Retriever is taller and leaner than the other two types by as much as two full inches! Regardless of the type of Golden Retriever you have, they will all share the same gentle mouth, high intelligence, and a tendency for pleasing. The easiest way is to ask your Breeder which of the types of Golden Retrievers they breed. Luckily, there are a few key factors that can help determine the exact type American, English, or Canadian and color Light Golden, Golden, or Dark Golden your retriever could be! Check Their Build As stated before, each type of Golden Retriever will have its own unique build and general body size. Although it can be harder to distinguish between Canadian and American Golden Retrievers, you can usually tell by their eye shape. Today, Goldens continue to solidify their place as one of the best family dogs. Golden Retrievers are medium to large canines, often weighing around pounds kg and standing inches cm tall. Despite their size, this breed has a reputation for its own brand of fun docility. Simply put, Goldens are just as lovable as they are big! Much like your favorite potato chip, Goldens come in multiple varieties. Canadian Golden Retrievers tend to be taller than the other two types. Their coats are generally shorter with less fluff, as well. British or English Golden Retrievers are known for their long, wispy cream-colored coats. With a strong chest and large skull, British Goldens are good choices for owners who prefer a dog with a sturdier build. American Golden Retrievers are a bit more slender than their counterparts. They frequently sport a dark golden coat—a beautiful contrast to their light brown eyes. But what if we told you that this is just the tip of the proverbial iceberg? Can Golden Retrievers be different colors? Goldens tend to be one solid color, with lighter bellies, legs, and tails. There are an infinite number of golden tones and hues, and your pooch could be any one of them! Others have so little pigment, they look like four-legged, furry snowballs. We thought you might be. Also called English cream , light golden is an extremely popular Golden Retriever color in the UK hence the moniker. This variant is quite common the world over! Golden A young Golden Retriever dog with a toy bone Standard gold or just golden is arguably the most prevalent of the Golden Retriever shades. Bright and honey-toned, this is probably the color you think of when you envision a traditional Golden Retriever. Goldens with this coat color can actually be incredibly hard to differentiate from red Goldens. The easiest way to tell is to look for amber undertones. In reality, red Goldens are shades of mahogany, amber, red-gold, and dark brown. Historians theorize that interbreeding between Goldens and Irish Setters is what introduced the red hair gene to the Golden bloodline. Is one Golden Retriever color better than another? It all comes down to personal preference. If you intend to show your Golden competitively, stick to one of the AKC-approved colors: light golden or cream, golden, or dark golden. Otherwise, your pooch could either be barred from participating or hit with a penalty. If your Golden Retriever puppy is training for a life of couch cuddles and playtime, feel free to go for whichever color you like best. Which Golden Retriever colors cost more? In short, no color is more expensive than another. That said, some breeders coax unaware shoppers into paying more for English cream Goldens. Any Golden puppy that appears white is really just a very pale cream. Do Golden Retriever puppies really change color? If you were shocked to learn that there are red Golden Retrievers, you might want to have a seat for this one: Golden Retrievers do indeed change color. Goldens are canine chameleons. And to really spice things up, even Golden Retriever puppies from the same litter can look totally different! Looking at the group of snuggle muffins below, we can tell that the Golden Retriever puppy on the far right will likely stay a cream color into adulthood. The other pups, however, seem to have a deep golden coat brewing! Brush your Golden Retriever every day to prevent this. Daily brushing can help keep shedding at bay, too. Feel free to brush your Golden more often during spring and fall, their heaviest shedding seasons. Contrary to popular belief, shaving a Golden Retriever does far more harm than good. Which Golden Retriever color will you choose? If you appreciate the classics, look for a Golden with a traditional light to dark golden coat. Have a flair for the avant garde? A vibrant red Golden might be your jam! So, which of these shades catches your eye? Let us know in the comments! With a background in animal science, dog training, and behavior consulting, her hands-on experience and extensive knowledge make her a trusted source for dog owners. When not writing or leading the K9 Web content team, Cess can be found volunteering at local shelters and participating in dog-related events. Leave a Comment. Golden Retriever Colors Which color is the best? From the classic gold coat to the rarer variations, these colors add depth and character. Whether you prefer the traditional or the less common, the array of colors within the Golden Retriever family enriches the special bond between humans and their furry companions. Key Takeaways Golden retrievers come in three primary color shades: light golden, golden, and dark golden. Golden retriever puppies may change color as they grow, which can be a delightful surprise. This shade is a gentle reminder of the golden fields where these pups love to frolic. Category Description Visual Characteristics Light goldens flaunt a pale, almost cream-colored coat that seems to radiate warmth. Common Variations You might spot light goldens with slightly darker ears or a hint of apricot on their paws. Genetics Light golden color is often a result of various genetic factors that contribute to the lighter pigmentation. Care and Grooming Their lighter coats might need a bit more care under the sun to prevent sunburn. Regular brushing keeps their fur looking its radiant best. Golden Ah, the classic golden retriever — like a loyal friend who always brings a smile to your face. Description Visual Characteristics The golden shade exudes warmth and friendliness, with a coat that ranges from rich, deep gold to a lighter, sun-kissed hue. Common Variations Some golden retrievers might have a slightly reddish tinge, enhancing their striking appearance. Genetics The genetic recipe for the golden color is a combination of melanin pigmentation and the interplay of various alleles. Their rich, deep tones are a sight to behold. Common Variations Dark goldens might exhibit variations in shade, from deep amber to a lustrous coppery tone. Genetic Factors Contributing to Dark Golden Color The interplay of genes affects the balance between eumelanin and pheomelanin, resulting in their distinctive dark shade. Care and Grooming Their darker coats can make shedding less noticeable, but regular grooming sessions ensure their fur remains luscious and velvety. Check out our Golden Retriever puppies for sale. Golden retrievers come in three shades, but their personalities remain as golden as ever. Dark goldens, for example, might shed less visibly than their lighter counterparts. But remember, these differences are as minor as picking between a strawberry or blueberry muffin — both are delicious in their own right! The Impact of Age on Color Changes Golden retriever puppies often exhibit a light, almost white, coat in their early days. Eventually, your golden retriever pup might go through a bit of an awkward phase in terms of their coat color. This usually happens around the 6 to month mark, which coincides with their adolescent stage. The colors might darken or lighten, leading to a playful guessing game — will they end up golden, light golden, or dark golden? By the time your golden retriever reaches their first birthday, their adult coat colors should have settled in, resembling their permanent shade. Some pups might undergo subtle changes in hue as they age, but by and large, the transformation is done. The most popular Golden Retriever color is largely claimed by the classic shade of gold, which ranges from a light cream to a rich, deep gold hue. Golden Retrievers adorned in these warm, golden tones tend to capture the hearts of many dog enthusiasts. What is the Rarest Golden Retriever Color? Dark Golden Retrievers resemble red-coated counterparts but lack the distinct amber undertone, adding a touch of uniqueness to the spectrum of Golden Retriever colors. Predicting the exact color of a Golden Retriever puppy can be challenging, as their coat colors can change as they mature. Browse Our Available Puppies. In fact, they have a few different coat colors although not all of them are acceptable in traditional dog shows. Do not fall for these traps. Standard Golden Retriever Colors There are five typical Golden Retriever Colors, although these can be mixed and matched into different combinations. Standard Golden Retrievers Image Credit: lecreusois, Pixabay This is probably the first thing that comes to mind when picturing a Golden Retriever color. Be sure to give them a good proper brushing at least twice a week to keep their golden coats shining their best. Another key to keeping their coats at their peak condition is to ensure that your Golden maintains a healthy diet full of Omega-3s. They fall between the cream Golden Retrievers and the standards on the color spectrum. This is the second variety of Golden Retriever color that is accepted by International Kennel Clubs for show. These are often among the most striking of Goldens with their deep gold coats. One thing to note about their color is that while they do bear a close semblance to the Red Golden Retriever—more on them later—they lack the amber or red hues found on the former. Their golden coat is a pure gold color just deeper than that of the standard variation. Often, the ears will be darker than the rest of the coat, and a good sign of how dark these pups will get as they mature. But there are also some different peculiarities about this color when compared to the rest. Cream Colored Retrievers normally have a thinner coat than their darker-haired relatives. However, they shed just as much. However, these are just shameless marketing tactics. The origin of this breed is believed to come from Ireland where standard Golden Retrievers were crossbred with Irish Setters. This theory does make sense as the dogs are generally leaner and more compact than other Golden Retrievers. They also have less feathering around their legs and tail. However, that may change in the future. Golden Retrievers shed a lot , especially during peak seasons. Your Golden may require two or three brushings a week when they start blowing their coat. And the best way to do this is with a slicker brush. A slicker brush is normally a wide, rectangular brush with firm wire bristles. These are absolutely perfect for grooming Golden Retrievers as the brush is designed to easily pull out tangles without causing any damage to their skin. Conclusion There are 5 true Golden Retriever colors, each of which shares the same wonderful, loving temperament. For more info, check out:. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. There are also different personality and physical characteristics that coincide with the different coat colors. They tend to be calmer and more docile than other Goldens. If you plan on showing your dog in the U. The American Kennel Club breed standard states that extremely pale or extremely dark body colors are undesirable. However, gold or cream are preferred instead of red if you live in the U. Differences in Cream Golden Retrievers Other than color, there are a few minor differences between cream Golden Retrievers and their Golden counterparts. Their hair is usually thinner, and they have rounder eyes and a stockier build. Sometimes they have a longer neck and a broader head. They are also slightly shorter than other Goldens. Gold-colored Golden Retrievers can have a variety of physical characteristics and temperaments. Some are slender and athletic, while others are stocky with thin coats. Red Golden Retrievers are often field-bred Goldens that are bred for their hunting instincts. They have a higher energy level and prey drive than other Golden Retrievers, as they are bred as working dogs. The hair is also straighter and more closely resembles the coat of a Labrador Retriever than a typical Golden Retriever. Red dogs usually have less feathering on their tail and legs, but since there is no breed standard for red Golden Retrievers, this can vary significantly. Their frame tends to be smaller and leaner than other Goldens due to their working dog nature. Cream Goldens are a very light gold, while red Goldens are a very dark shade of gold. Golden Retrievers do not come in white or black — assuming that they are a purebred dog. If you find a black Golden Retriever, they are a crossbreed. Flat-Coated Retrievers look similar to Goldens and are often mistaken for them. They can have a black coat. Does Color Matter? Your primary goal is to obtain a dog or puppy that is healthy and has a personality that will mesh well in your household. This should also be the goal of any reputable breeder. The only circumstance where you may want to consider the color of your Golden Retriever is if you intend to use them as a show dog. Conclusion Golden Retrievers come in three primary colors: cream, gold, and red. Gold is the most common color, and red is the least common. Red Golden Retrievers are primarily bred as working dogs and have slightly different energy levels and temperaments than the other two colors. Featured Image Credit: Rala, Shutterstock Written by Chelsie Fraser Author Chelsie is a freelance writer who is passionate about helping owners and pets live their best lives. She resides in rural Alberta, Canada with her husband and two sons, and is currently a pet parent to four horses, four cats, and a border collie.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Our list of the highest rated Labradoodle Breeders in New York features ethical facilities whose main focus is producing healthy Labradoodle pups. More breeders are taking on the huge responsibility of breeding Labradoodle puppies in New York, which is naturally a great thing. However, the high demand has also attracted Doodle scammers and puppy mills. See Also: Click the image Although Doodle scammers will leave you empty-handed with no money or puppy, puppy mills are a different story. Namely, their lower prices are used to attract unknowing buyers while selling them unhealthy puppies from overbred parents. Oftentimes, the kennels are in horrible conditions, the dogs are malnourished, and come with a wide set of health problems. You can always ask the breeder for proof of health testing, as reputable breeders have no problems providing you with the documentation. For more on issues that can plague Labradoodles take a look at our article Doodle Health Issues and Diseases. Another great indicator is that a breeder is recommended by Gooddog. All of these organizations require their certified breeders to follow high standards of health and genetic testing. In addition to that, the breeders have to follow ethical breeding practices and provide a safe, clean, and nurturing environment for the breeding dogs and puppies. See Also:. We ensured that none of the Labradoodle breeders mentioned here has a bad reputation and that no breeders with unethical procedures or puppy mills were listed. Secondly, PuppySpot offers a range of resources and services to make the process of bringing your new Labradoodle home as easy as possible. Lastly, PuppySpot is committed to responsible pet ownership and animal welfare. They have a strict policy against working with puppy mills or substandard breeders and partner with animal welfare organizations to support their mission. They make the process easy, and their commitment to responsible pet ownership and animal welfare is something to be proud of! You can trust this breeder, who has been breeding Australian multigenerational miniature and standard-sized Labradoodles since , to do everything she can to raise healthy and happy puppies. All puppies have been vaccinated, microchipped, and checked their health. You can also request health and genetic tests from this breeder. Hips, eyes, and other joints are among the most common health examinations. Furthermore, genetic testing guarantees that your dog will be free of inherited disorders. You will get a Labradoodle puppy that will share your home for the rest of its life. Each breeding parent has undergone extensive health checks and genetic testing. Before you can be approved as a breeder, both organizations need you to undergo health tests on your dogs. This breeder spends time exposing puppies to various stimuli and lifelong conditions such as nail trimming and bathing. Most Labradoodle breeders in New York will not provide their puppies with this additional training and stimulation. All puppies are vet-checked, given their first set of immunizations, dewormed, and come with a health guarantee. Parent dogs are health-tested and genetically checked, providing you peace of mind when choosing a Labradoodle puppy. This breeder is known for its multigeneration medium-sized Labradoodles. All pups come with a health guarantee of 2-years, up-to-date immunizations, microchipping, and free pet insurance for an initial period of 30 days. All breeding parents are entirely healthy and have had their eyes, hearts, knees, elbows, and hips examined by the OFA. This breeder is known for its multigenerational medium and standard-size Labradoodles. They only have a limited amount of certified therapy and service dogs available each year, so talk to them if you want your Labradoodle to be more than just a family pet or a companion dog. In New York, Guardianship initiatives are an excellent method to receive a low-cost Labradoodle pup. Within one week of the buyer receiving the puppy, a veterinarian will inspect the puppy. They breed F2B standard-sized Labradoodle puppies. At 6 weeks of age, the puppies will get their first checkup and vaccinations with the Country Side doctor. We usually suggest contacting each breeder individually and asking them a range of questions. Choose a breeder willing to address your issues and choose the best dog on the basis of temperament rather than appearance. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. They have puppies that come from very good bloodlines and they focus mostly on Australian Labradoodles, Multi-Generational Labradoodles F3 , Goldendoodles, and double doodles. Johnson raises them like their own within their own home and they teach them basics from a young age until they go home. They socialize the puppies with people and other dogs so they are ready to go to their forever homes. Tips for New Puppy Owners Congratulations on your new puppy! That tip is to take the time to prepare your puppy for his first visit to the grooming salon! Most puppies have their first grooming experience at around 11 or 12 weeks of age when their course of vaccinations is complete. Daily Brushing First of all, you must get into the routine of combing and brushing your Doodle pup every day. After a few days of wriggling and attempting to steal the grooming tools, Raffles has now gotten used to the whole rigmarole and accepts it without too much protest. Blow Dry Many dogs find the sound and sensation of a blow dryer quite alarming, so I started to introduce my puppy to that from day one. When I dried my hair, I simply put Raffles on the bed next to me, set the dryer onto its lowest, coolest setting, and gently allowed the air to pass over him. Here is a Labradoodle puppy checklist to help your puppy settle in during their first month in your home: Make sure you have a safe place for your puppy to sleep. This could be a crate or an exercise pen with a soft bed inside. Puppies need to eat three to four times a day, so make sure you have a regular feeding schedule of good quality pet food for the healthiest puppy possible. Puppies should be taken outside frequently to go to the bathroom. They may not hold it for long at first, so be prepared for accidents. Happy puppies need a lot of exercise, so make sure you have time for long walks or play sessions every day. Start with basic commands like sit, stay, and come, and be consistent with your rewards and corrections. Remember to be patient! Enjoy this time and create lots of happy memories with your new furry friend. Puppy mills are large-scale commercial dog breeding operations that churn out puppies for profit without regard to the welfare of the animals. The puppies are often raised in horrible conditions and may not receive proper vet care or socialization. The breeder seems more interested in making a sale than answering your questions or getting to know you. The breeder has multiple breeds of puppies available. The breeder has puppies that are very young less than eight weeks old. We made a list of ethical Labradoodle breeders from nearby states, so you will not fall into the hands of these puppy mills. Check these out:. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in New York? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in New York. Unlike many other types of dogs, Australian Labradoodles are totally non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Doodles are the perfect pick for people who love dogs but hate sneezing, coughing, and picking up clumps of fur every day. Our dogs are soft, cuddly and photogenic, which is probably why so many have their own Instagram followings! Friendliest Dispositions Doodles are famous for being patient and friendly. Perfect Family Pet Australian Labradoodles are adaptable, which means they fit in with so many types of homes and families. Labradoodles love other pets, kids, quiet people, outgoing people, relaxed people, active people.Labradoodles just love people. Premium Network of Labradoodle Breeders in New York Our premium network of breeders allows us to better meet the high demand for our dogs while still maintaining the integrity and high standards that keep our puppies happy and healthy. Highest New York Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our system of guardian homes and limitations on litter count and breeding age keeps our mommy Labradoodles healthy and happy, while our breeders also maintain exceptional living conditions for our puppies, too!

We will give you some of the best NJ pugs rescues. It is an NJ nonprofit corporation rescuing abandoned or surrendered pugs since .We hope you can consider this shelter. Because it is a place of refuge and love for animals awaiting a forever home. Moreover, Jersey Shore Animal Center offers low-cost vaccines, microchips, spay, and neuter. Also, this shelter helps educate the community about responsible ownership. This team also instructs school children on choosing the right pets for their homes. Sometimes, they provide pet therapy, too. Adopting a pug at the Jersey Shore Animal Center will help the shelter rescue more pets. Usually, most animals came from owner surrenders, overcrowded shelters, or abuse. The team is very proud and happy to let you meet these fur babies. The Jersey Shore Animal Center has strict adoption policies. They strongly implement inspection to ensure responsible and educated pug ownership. Usually, applications take 24 to 48 hours. If you want a new pet, please contact the team via phone call. This way, they can guide you on what to do. It is an NJ nonprofit corporation. It rescues abandoned or surrendered pugs. They focus on animals facing euthanasia and victims of neglect. It has been operating since .They also offer basic veterinary care, such as spaying and neutering. This way, we can prevent overpopulation. Animal Alliance is a non-profit organization. Thus, they solely rely on volunteers and donations. If you want to donate, you have many options to choose from. You can give in-kind donations. Examples are blankets, carriers, laundry detergents, collars, and more. Animal Alliance also has an Amazon Wishlist. There, you can select an item to order and ship it directly to their address. This pugs rescue also appreciates volunteers. They need people who can help rescue dogs during adoption days. They also need someone to walk the dogs and provide temporary foster care. The team also needs creative writers for special projects. There, fill out the application form if you want to volunteer. Afterward, you need to download and sign a waiver. You have to bring this document in your first volunteer assignment. If you leave near the area, we recommend you to visit this pugs rescue. It is a no-kill animal shelter that saves surrenders, strays, and neglect. They also offer veterinary services for Caldwell, Nutley, and Glen Ridge. Its mission is to provide the best veterinary care for all rescued animals. Each fur baby undergoes evaluation before putting up for adoption. After evaluation, volunteers will give excellent care like socialization, training, and daily walks. It will help the shelter match the pet to an appropriate adoptive family. It is more affordable and buying from breeders. Before adoption, the team will assess your living conditions, financial situation, and lifestyle. Do you work full-time? Do you enjoy exercising outside? Do you want a small or large pet? These questions will help both parties to decide the best fur baby. Ensure you have the financial security to pay for veterinary care and food. This pugs rescue promotes domestic animal population control. They also support the community and assist in animal welfare emergencies. They partner with different organizations in Jersey City. It helps in providing low-cost spay and neuter surgeries. Ramapo-Bergen Animal Refuge supports domestic animal population control. This way, they can help stop the cycle of homelessness. It can also prevent many animals from suffering from abuse. They offer behavioral and medical care for dogs and cats. RBARI focuses more on rejected animals, especially seniors. Also, they regularly pull from local facilities to prevent euthanasia. If you want to adopt a new pet here, you can view available pugs and pug mixes on their official website. If you think you found the right match, please apply for an adoption application. If you have other queries, you can contact the team by phone or email. Wrapping Up You can give pug pals a second chance for a better future when you adopt. Yet, we suggest you think carefully before adoption. Remember that these fur babies need a loyal companion around them all the time. It is also important to meet their daily needs. This way, you can prevent behavioral problems caused by boredom or loneliness. For new pug owners or those planning to get a pug , please talk to one of the adoption counselors. We want you to understand the importance of responsible pug ownership. This way, we can guarantee that your future pet will be happy and safe. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards, We come from many walks of life, and have agreed to donate our many and varied talents so that pugs everywhere can live out their lives with comfort, love and care. We are all volunteers, with no paid employees. Each person serves in the way best suited to their lifestyle and individual skills. We are proud of the way we have built this organization. We have determined that our common welfare and the welfare of the pug breed must come first. Our leaders are but trusted servants, in that they do not govern. There is no power structure, just a service structure. The only requirement for membership is a desire to help homeless pugs and promote education about the breed and the need for domestic animal population control. We allow, and strongly encourage participation in other groups, rescues, and shelters, as it is the best way to strengthen the rescue effort and make sure that our motto is upheld: "Let no pug go unloved. We give rescued pugs veterinary care, a nurturing foster environment, and permanent placement into a loving home. In addition, we offer education to the public on the special responsibilities of pug ownership and the need for domestic animal population control. Make a donation today! Pugs are vetted and some need rehab until placed in forever homes. HELP for a Pug? Support Pug Rescue Efforts! There are plenty of ways to help pug rescue efforts! In addition to our hard work and dedication to Pug rescue it does comes with a never ending financial issue we face. Some pugs can cost hundreds even thousands to vet and rehabilitate depending on each pugs circumstance. We appreciate support for our efforts in order to continue helping pugs that are in need. Online Gift Cards to help our rescue needs are appreciated and can be sent to us online via Chewy. The pug you are interested in may be in the process of adoption by the time your application is approved and may already have applications in "review and pending adoption". Adopting from a rescue can take longer due to many steps we take to ensure a successful adoption. Please NOTE: Submitting an application or a home visit does not mean you are approved to adopt the pet you have applied for. You will be notified if we feel you are a candidate for the pug you have applied for. Our Goal is to match each pugs needs in finding a forever home for every rescued pug. The pug you apply for may not be the best candidate for your lifestyle or living situation. Remember a rescued pug is coming from a home or shelter maybe even multiple times. The last thing we want is to put them into yet another rehoming situation! WE want a successful adoption and ultimately what is best for our rescued pugs therefore, It is the decision of the rescue and that pugs foster parent s to decide. Adopting from a rescue can take longer due to many steps taken to ensure a successful adoption. Assists Owners in finding a new and forever home for each pug. .We are a small all volunteer group that works off of foster homes with each pug. .Pug Rescue adoption assistance of south jersey. .Pug Rescue Assistance of South Jersey,assists owners who can no longer keep there pugs, we have many people on a wait lists for pugs,so the keep is not long.We are not breeders no do we sell dogs. This is not a shelter. .All rules on adopting is usually listed on each of our pugs put up for adoption. .Thank you. We spend a lot of time making sure that when an animal is adopted it is a good match for both the new owner and the animal. We require a home visit prior to adoption and references. We do not follow a first come first serve process. We make follow-up visits too, and provide counseling if needed on advice with each pug. .A long-term committment such as pet adoption is not one that we feel should be made hastily and without thought. Animals bond to new owners quickly and it is sad for everyone if an animal must be returned. Sometimes, however, a new owner finds that the animal after all is not a good match, or there is a life change that makes it hard to give the animal proper care. Policy is that any of its dogs can be returned at any time, no matter how long since adopted. .Great choice. Pugs are popular pets for a reason. This delightful, friendly breed makes a wonderful family pet or companion. But these in-demand pooches can be tricky to track down. Our team has put together a list of top Pug breeders in New Jersey. We know exactly what to look for in a breeder. They have over 25 years of experience breeding Mastiffs and have also been breeding Pugs since .All Agincourt dogs are bred selectively. She is now in the process of becoming an American Kennel Club judge herself and has already participated in numerous educational seminars and workshops. They produce standard and rare Pugs of color including black, fawn, apricot, brindle, reverse brindle, silver, silver brindle, platinum white, and white Pugs. All their puppies are healthy with a certificate and guarantee. Their dogs are all AKC registered with strong genetic lines. Christina and Richard love their dogs and make sure to socialize them with other dogs, cats, and young children. They also come with a health guarantee, first shots, and deworming. Please note that Happy Pugs does not ship their dogs due to the associated risks. They are raised indoors around small children and fed both wet and dry food. Nicole picks only good, safe homes for her pups and does not ship due to the associated risks. MeshugaDogs Phone: Website: meshugadogs. They own, breed, and inseminate themselves. Some of their dogs have even featured in commercials. Meshuga has black, fawn, white, brindle, silver, and apricot Pugs. All their pups have excellent temperaments, health lines, and all studs are PDE tested. They raise and breed AKC standard black and fawn Pug pedigrees only. Pugz Pawz strives to keep their Pug breed top-quality, healthy, and happy. Puppies are raised at home, not in kennels. Pugz Pawz always prioritizes finding safe, loving homes for their pups. To offer the finest Pug-specific products to the world. Pug Envy has litters available at various points throughout the year. Due to high demand, they operate on a first-come, first-serve basis. Tracy is a registered AKC breeder who has been working with Pugs for nineteen years. She prioritizes the health and wellbeing of her dogs to guarantee you well-socialized, loving, healthy pets. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

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