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Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. It also tends to be high in protein. Food that is high in protein and calories will provide your puppy with the energy that they need and help them gain the right amount of weight as they grow up. Most puppy food also includes vitamin and mineral supplements, such as calcium and phosphorus, for healthy and strong bones and teeth. You should speak to your vet to ensure that you have the right food and are feeding your puppy the proper amount. We hope that these reviews have helped you decide on the right food for your German Shepherd puppy. Remember to stick with large-breed food because it usually has the correct ratio of vitamins and minerals to give your GSD puppy all the suitable nutrition that they need so they can grow up strong, healthy, and happy. Featured Image Credit: Victoria Antonova, Shutterstock Written by Kathryn Copeland Author Kathryn was a librarian in a previous lifetime and is currently a writer about all things pets. When she was a child, she hoped to work in zoos or with wildlife in some way, thanks to her all-consuming love for animals. Unfortunately, she's not strong in the sciences, so she fills her days with researching and writing about all kinds of animals and spends time playing with her adorable but terribly naughty tabby cat, Bella. Kathryn is hoping to add to her family in the near future — maybe another cat and a dog.Read more Advertisement. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

Dedicated to a Healthy Legacy. Boxer Puppies and Young Boxers pictured. Subscribe to get news on litters! We own a farm on 29 acres in Morriston, Florida, near Ocala. We moved to Florida in .Throughout my life I've had boxers. Had other breeds but always came back to the Boxer for their unmistakable loyalty and dedication. My Boxers are champions and their heritage is champions or have been in the show ring. Made in America. All of our puppies are proudly made in America. All the food and everything we use to raise up our puppies is made in America. All products in our kennels are made in America. God bless our troops. Proud to be American citizens. Jesus is Lord! He is featured on our MALE page. To have our boxers be everything they are meant to be we knew we must start with a good foundation. We believe we have achieved this with our boxers. We have spent time and research on choosing all our boxers. Boxers are born to show off and they do plenty of that. AKC Boxer Breeder. Florida, the sunshine state, the perfect place to own a AKC Boxer puppy. Looking forward to working with you. Enjoy the journey! Files coming soon. A new look for: americanboxerpuppies. We have been a K9 breeder for over 20 years and have been breeding boxers for over 12 years. Our boxers are raised in a social, healthy and loving environment. Through my life I've had boxers. Had other breeds but always came back to the boxer. For their unmistakable loyalty and dedication. My boxers are champions and their heritage is champions or have been in the show ring. God bless our troop! Listons Boxers. AKC Boxer breeder. Florida, the sunshine state, the perfect place to own a AKC boxer puppy. Our web site americanboxerpuppies. They have areas to exercise and play. We have top of the line breeding. Our boxers are related to one of the top boxers in the US. From our home to yours we strive to have you bring home a healthy and well balanced puppy. A Furever Friend Boxers are fun loving, playful and ready for a venture. They love to snuggle and great with children. Email Address. My husband is no stranger to boxers, as his parents were boxer breeders in Killduff, Iowa. I was introduced to my first boxer in .In an office conversation, I mentioned my husband's love for boxers. Shortly after, a co-worker showed me an ad for a boxer for a 1-year old boxer. We interviewed twice with the family and were awarded the privilege of owning the dog--Bogie. We tragically lost him shortly after. I swore off dogs-especially boxers. It was a painful experience for our family. In October , on a trip to Cow Palace, I stopped to visit my brother who had a litter of 4-week old boxer puppies. I should have never fallen for his trap. One look at those boxer puppies and I had to have one. Being the first to see them, I got first choice. I took many pictures of Kadie to bring home to the family, and of course, they too were smitten. Kadie will always be our special girl. We love to take every opportunity to educate boxer families on the breed. We feel very blessed to have had great success in the years we have been breeding professionally. Our thanks to the extended CinniBon family members and families who have adopted puppies from us. Since

While it is our goal on this website to only include listings of responsible and ethical breeders of purebred dogs, and there is certain criteria that must be met in order to be listed, we can only rely on the honesty of those submitting the request. Therefore, we cannot recommend, nor do we endorse or support any one of these listings. If you are looking to purchase a puppy, it is your responsibility to do your research in learning what to look for in a breeder. In addition to the Breeders listed here, the Breed Clubs generally include listings of member Breeders on their web sites and, if not, then a listing can usually be obtained either by e-mail or telephone. We do not randomly add Breeders to any listing. All Breeders listed have requested to be included either via a general link or paid advertising. If a young pup is not an absolute requirement for you, then considering the adoption of a dog from a rescue organization or shelter is strongly recommended. In addition, Breeders occasionally have young adults available and many also take in rescued dogs. This section includes several articles and general information along with listings of shelters and rescue organizations that are not breed specific from across Canada. The purchase or sale of any dog is strictly between the buyer and seller. Accuracy of information for all advertisements is the sole responsiblity of the advertiser and we cannot be held responsible for any misrepresentation. Quick Links. She is very sweet and cuddly. She loves playing with her toys and getting spoiled. She loves attention.Presa canario english bulldog mixed. Gray color. Deworming done, he already started solid food, loving and playful. He will be ready for his new home on september.There are 3 girls available. They will come fully vet checked with first and second shots, de worming and a clear bill of health.Please Contact Pocket Puppies Belleville I have a gorgeous litter of pocket puppies ready for their new homes. They will come fully vet checked with first shots, de worming and a clear bill of health from a.There are 3 girls and 2 boys available. Puppies will be ready to go home on August 11th. They will come fully vet checked.Some of my favorite things are to play in the backyard with my ball, Dam and Sire are both great companions with great temperaments, both available to meet, pictured in last.Hamilton Beautiful puppies ready now! No shots. Puppies are raised around chickens, ducks, kids and.He is very bonded to me, but he is not great with my children. Showing 1 - 40 of resultsPage 1 - results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. Champion blood line They were born on June 26th and are now ready for their forever homes. We have both males and females. Please text me for more.Puppies are ready to go to their new homes. We have 2 males and 1 female available. All our puppies are very happy.Interacts with our family daily and are pee pad trained. They have been exposed to all kinds of snuggles and extra love that.They come from a CKC mom and dad! They have already been taken to vet for first shot and have been fully dewormed. They are a beautiful chocolate color with.Both parents are small and compact. Nous offrons un an de garantie pour toutes maladies.Website : Georgianbayfrenchies. Please Contact American bulldog puppies pockets Malton Hello we have new born American pockets available Picture update weekly First 4 pictures are males Next 3 pictures are females Contact Alex call or text for any other information about.We are a reputable and well known, established breeder with over 10 years of dedication to the breed. We currently have 2 puppies available from a small litter.Litter 2 was born July 1 and has 7 puppies 3 girls 4 boys. My puppies are raised under.Best offer. Hamilton We have a beautiful litter of 7 French Bulldogs. Here is what left: 1. Blue boy. Merle boy blue eyes. Merle boy. Shots and deworming are done. Puppies will come with the starter kit.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our dogs have OFA certifications, and Pennhips passing results. Puppies are sold with limited registration. Puppy choosing order is based on the order of deposit received. Two year guarantee: Covers such defects as severe hip dysplasia, severe heart defects and serious life altering genetic defects, as these are disorders that greatly affect the quality of a dogs' life due to pain or weakness. Terms to be discussed with breeder. Puppy must be fed premium quality dog food, and NuVet vitamins must be given daily to promote optimal health! We truly believe in nutrition as the number one priority for your new pup. We have done countless research and nothing on the market compares to NuVet Plus vitamins. Our goal is to help you keep your new family member as healthy as can be for his or her entire life. This is why we have incorporated this into our guarantee. Puppies are susceptible to joint diseases and other ailments just like humans so we want to start boosting their immune system as soon as possible! Feeding premium food is not enough because all dry food needs to be processed to destroy bacteria, in return killing all of the heat sensitive nutrients. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. Size: inches tall and lbs— so essentially a very large Teddy bear. Lifespan: of the best years of your life! Energy Level: Active Coat: Thick, silky, and luxurious. Shedding: Moderately heavy. Hypoallergenic: Unfortunately, English Cream Goldens are not hypoallergenic. What is an English Cream Golden Retriever? Ah, the English Cream Golden Retriever, also known as the striking ivory white counterpart to the traditional Goldens we all know and love. And with a name like that, it comes as no surprise that these dogs are so sought after! Basically, an English Cream is a subtype of the Golden Retriever breed—more specifically a variation of the British Golden. English Cream Goldens gained their namesake as a result of, well, their elegant pale coats, which can range in color from a delicate cream shade to white. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the British Golden subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. Oh, and we can thank years of selective breeding for that wonderful and uniquely white coat of theirs, too. Because their temperament is friendly, fun-loving, and obedient. These pups are known for being loyal, intelligent, and attentive. Like all Goldens, they are playful and excitable. In short, their great, balanced temperament makes them a great addition to any home! Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are English Cream Goldens more expensive? What is the difference between English Cream and Golden Retriever? The British Goldens including the English Cream are very similar to their American Golden relatives; however, they do tend to sport slightly lighter colored coats overall and are about 2 inches shorter on average. How big is a full-grown English Cream Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. Do English Cream Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the English Cream Goldens often have a coat that is slightly thicker and shorter than the American Goldens, some owners claim they shed less overall. Problem solved! Are English Cream Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, English Cream Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature. In fact, their sweet, calm, and lovable disposition make them a fantastic addition to any family including yours. Are English Cream Goldens more calm? Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Life Span Did You Know? The English Cream Golden Retriever is not a separate dog breed from the Golden Retriever ; it is simply a rarer coat color variation. These Golden Retrievers tend to have light white or cream-colored coats instead of honey, golden-brown, or reddish coats. As they are still standard Golden Retrievers, they are recognized by the AKC and other canine organizations and can be registered. An English Cream Golden Retriever has all the same traits as any other Golden Retriever; they are one of the most popular dog breeds and tend to be open, friendly, and make great family pets. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. As long as they are socialized and trained, Goldens tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. They are even known for being open and friendly with strangers. As one of the kid-friendly dog breeds , Golden Retrievers love attention. These dogs tend to be energetic, full of personality, and are devoted to their families. They also tend to be excitable, which means they can be prone to barking. Training your dog to stop barking early on can help curb this habit and help prevent it from becoming a nuisance. Due to their friendly, gentle nature and intelligence, Goldens can often be found working as service, therapy, or search and rescue dogs. English Cream Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. Their high energy and exuberance make them better suited for homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living, but you will need to dedicate a lot of time every day to ensure they get enough attention, mental stimulation, and exercise. Goldens fare well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they bond so closely with their families and are one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. Some potential health concerns to be aware of in an English Cream Golden Retriever can include canine cataracts, progressive retinal atrophy, hip dysplasia, and elbow dysplasia. Good breeding practices reduce the risk of these health issues and make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. The national breed club recommends hip and elbow evaluations, an NCL DNA test, an ophthalmologist evaluation, and a cardiac exam at a minimum. English Cream Golden Retrievers are intelligent and eager to please. This makes them highly trainable dogs that are a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Not only are they one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners , but they also tend to excel at obedience competitions and other dog sports. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered basic commands , move on to other activities or more advanced commands. Anything you learn will help and will only strengthen the bond you are building with your puppy. Plus, there are several other benefits of puppy training classes including socialization. English Cream Goldens may have a lighter-colored coat, but they still have the classic longer Golden Retriever coat that will shed a big year-round and heavier as the seasons change. You will want to bathe them as needed and get your Golden professionally groomed a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Trimming nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing is ideal to keep tartar buildup at bay. This, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is good dental care for dogs and can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Golden Retrievers are known for being high-energy dogs. Like Labrador Retrievers , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They do tend to calm down a little as they grow into adulthood, but will still have a lot of energy. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep this dog happy and healthy. Goldens tend to be athletic and versatile dogs. So, once they are done growing and the vet has cleared them for higher-impact activities, you can take them running with you, play frisbee, go hiking, train for dog sports, and more. As one of the most active dog breeds , you will likely run out of energy before they do and they will likely be up for even more activity if you are. An English Cream Golden Retriever generally lives for years on average. Golden Retrievers are one of the dog breeds of famous dogs. Last Updated: April 26, This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links, at no cost to you. English Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds in the world, known for their friendly, gentle, and loving personalities. They have long been a favorite of families and individuals who want a loyal, affectionate companion, especially their American counterparts, American Goldens. But with so many different types of Golden Retrievers out there, it can be tough to know which one is right for you. In particular, many people are curious about English Cream Golden Retriever puppies with their beautiful cream-colored coats. English Cream Golden Retrievers are a type of Golden Retriever among many subtypes of golden retriever that originated in Scotland in the midth century. They can be referred to via many different names, including English Cream Goldens, white Goldens, and more. They were created by a man named Lord Tweedmouth, who bred them from a Tweed Water Spaniel and existing retriever breeds. The goal was to run a breeding program to create a medium-sized dog with a gentle temperament, good behavior, excellent retrieving skills, and a white coat. Over time, the breed gained popularity across Europe and eventually made its way to the United States. Characteristics One of the most striking things about English Cream Golden Retrievers is their coat color. As the name suggests, these dogs have cream-colored coat that ranges from almost white to pale gold. This rare white European retriever is in contrast to American Golden Retrievers, which have a more golden or reddish color. They are known as family dogs, great with young children, as well as adult dogs are great for dog shows. Some other things to consider are supplies. No matter the breed, temperament, or age of your pup, you will need a few items to get started. Here are some of our recommendations to get started:. On your first visit to the vet, the vet will suggest a range of tests and health screenings for your dog. This will include the basics such as physical examination, fecal sample tests, vaccines and parasite prevention treatments. The vet will request further testing and schedule follow-up visits based on the test results. Ideally, a large breed dog like the English Cream Retriever is ready for sterilization when it is closer to 12 months of age. Some veterinary clinics will perform the procedure for a lower cost without any post-op care. So be mindful of what you choose. Note that spaying or neutering your dog is an optional cost. So you can choose to do it when you want or not do it all. But performing this surgery can prevent any reproductive-related issues from developing. Veterinary Care During the Adult Years Visiting the vet during the first year to ensure your puppy is alright and returning to the vet only when your dog gets sick again is not how proper veterinary care works. You have to commit your time and finance to veterinary care. This will ensure your dog is maintained in a healthy state. For an average dog in good health condition, the vet will recommend around follow-up visits throughout the year. These visits will cover the basics like physical examinations, vaccine updates and any required blood work. Depending on the findings, your vet may request further testing if required. Pet Insurance Pet insurance is one of the most essential investments you make for your pet. Pet insurance will cover major medical bills due to emergencies and expensive medical procedures. Many companies offer affordable and extensive plans for accident and illness coverage. Some even extend to complete health coverage which will cost much heavier. No matter what breed your dog is. Grooming Cost English Cream retrievers are easy to groom dogs. Every months, it is recommended that you get a professional grooming session to trim your Retrievers coat at the ears, feet, neck and tail to keep them smart. Training Cost English Cream retrievers are sociable and friendly dogs who are relatively easy to train. Although they have a friendly nature, we recommend professional training sessions for house manners, potty training, basic behavior and command training during the early stages. English Cream Retrievers rarely need private sessions. They are ideal for dogs who lack socialization around other dogs. Other Potential Costs Apart from the basic costs listed above, it would be best if you were also prepared to face additional costs in raising your English Cream Retriever. You may not necessarily be in a situation where you have to incur some of these expenses. But at the same time, some of these costs are unavoidable in certain circumstances. Microchip Microchipping your dog comes in super handy if your dog happens to get lost. When your dog is found and returned to a shelter, a vet can easily identify the owner using the microchip scanner. Dog License A dog license serves a similar purpose as a microchip. Dog Walking Your English Cream retriever will definitely benefit from exercise as they are energetic and playful dogs. So on days, you cannot take your dog for a walk, you can hire a dog walker. If you expect to use this service in the long run, you can multiply and add the respective cost to the annual basic total cost. Traveling If you want your dog to accompany you on your travels, there are options for that too. Many airlines, train companies and hotels do allow the facility of accommodating your pet with you. But this will no doubt come at a hefty price. So check ahead of time and plan your travels accordingly. Training tools dog owners must have for their dogs:. As the name suggests, these dogs are more popular in the UK. Because of their rarity and the specificity of the bloodline, these dogs are very expensive. There are some outliers on either end of this range. This is far more than most other breeds costs. This covers everything, including food, grooming, preventative vet care, and microchipping. Optional things are not included, like pet insurance and dog walking. Your costs can vary widely depending on where you get your dog from. When you compare this to a breeder that charges thousands, the huge savings are pretty obvious. Occasionally, you may be able to find these dogs advertised on places like Craigslist. However, there are many problems with going this route. However, they may occasionally. Generally, dogs on Craigslist are not produced by breeders; this causes a variety of different problems. Firstly, the adult dogs are usually not health tested, which means that they may pass on a variety of different conditions to their puppies. Secondly, most of the puppies do not receive the proper health care. As you might imagine, this can be an obvious problem. Some of these puppies are produced by puppy mills. These focus on producing as many puppies as possible or as cheaply as possible. Typically, this translates into taking many different shortcuts, such as not giving the dogs any medical care and spending very little time socializing with them. As you might imagine, puppies from these breeders are not particularly healthy or well-behaved. Most have never been in a home before their adoption. Some puppy mills produce a number of different breeds, so you might even end up with a mix instead of a pure-bred English Cream Retriever. Your puppy might be a Goldendoodle or similar cross. Getting a puppy from a rescue These dogs are much too rare to be common at rescues. There is simply no other place to find them. The majority of these breeders have contracts with buyers that require them to return the dog if they can no longer take care of it. Therefore, the dogs never end up in an animal shelter. The cost is sometimes based on the amount of vet care that particular dog had to receive. Puppies are usually more expensive than adults, as they tend to be adopted faster. Getting a puppy from a breeder While getting a puppy from a breeder can be expensive, this is mostly because you get a lot with your purchase of the puppy. Most puppies receive their first vaccinations and vet exam before being adopted. Quite a few puppies also come with some basic training before they are adopted out. This may include house training and simple commands. Some breeders do this themselves, while others hire a trainer. All of these extras add to the cost of your puppy. You may end up spending less on these puppies overall when you factor in all of these savings. Plus, many breeders also get their dogs health tested. This lowers the chance that an adult dog will pass on genetic issues to their puppies, resulting in a healthier litter. Costs of health tests One of the main reasons puppies from breeders are so expensive is due to health testing. A big factor in the cost is geographical location, as well as whether or not the dog needs sedation. This issue is common in all large dog breeds, especially retrievers. Flat-Coated Retrievers and Labradors also often show hip dysplasia. Many breeders also do testing for progressive retinal atrophy. This causes the eye to break down over time, which eventually leads to blindness. It simply depends on how the disease progresses. Other eye tests may be done as well, depending on the particular breeder. Their costs are very similar to other Golden Retrievers. A large portion of this will be the supplies your puppy needs when you bring them home, such as a dog bed and bowl. Of course, puppies also need quite a bit of vet care and training as well. All preventative vet care is included in this estimate, as is food, toys, grooming, and other regular costs. This includes all the preventative care your dog will need, like a physical exam, vaccinations, and basic blood tests. Puppies will need to visit the vet more often during their first year to receive all of their vaccinations. The first visit is usually around eight weeks and may be covered by your breeder. If this is the case, you can likely expect to pay on the lower end of the range for vet bills. Adults will only need one preventative appointment a year, but more work will need to be done at this single appointment. Therefore, you probably will pay about the same for adults and puppies. Often, vets will recommend certain diagnostic tests on older adults to catch potential health problems early. Food and toys Because these pups grow to be large dogs , they will require more food. Older dogs are simply larger and eat more, hence the increased cost as your dog ages. This covers high-quality food with plenty of meat and protein. You can save a bit of money by purchasing lower-quality foods, but this is not recommended. Just like people, dogs are what they eat. Because these dogs are quite active, you will be spending quite a bit on toys. While you may save a little bit upfront by purchasing lower-quality toys, your dog will typically be able to tear those up quite quickly. Training costs While these dogs are easy to train, we still recommend taking them to a professional — at least in the beginning. This is likely all that your dog needs. This breed rarely needs private lessons. Private lessons are great for dogs that cannot be around other canines due to a lack of socialization. However, the aim is always to get them into a group class. This breed is very sociable, so they usually have no problem being around other dogs. We highly recommend skipping the private classes, therefore. This assumes your dog is okay being around other canines, of course. Factors influencing the price These dogs vary a bit in pricing. They are all quite expensive, but some are more expensive than others. If a dog is more expensive, it is likely because they have more champions in their bloodline and will perform better in the show ring. Puppies with a direct lineage back to England are also usually more expensive. The amount of training and socialization a puppy also receives matters. Some breeders will charge a few thousand dollars extra for training — which you may or may not be able to opt-out of. All breeders socialize their puppies within their homes. But some will provide more socialization than others. Medical expenses also play a role. If the puppy has already received their first vaccinations, then you will likely pay extra for that puppy. However, you will not have to pay for these vaccinations, so you may end up spending less in the long run. Health testing can be expensive, so these puppies will likely be more expensive as well. Price considerations These dogs can be extremely expensive to adopt. For this reason, your main budgeting will be towards the actual price of a puppy. However, you should also budget appropriately for the annual price of a puppy. The bottom line Due to their rarity, this breed is very expensive to adopt. This includes annual costs and one-time purchases for the puppy. This will cost you a few more thousand dollars a year. Be sure you budget appropriately for this breed before you decide to purchase one. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

We have four exquisite, very red young females available now. Two are extra big girls for those that want something larger. These girls have the sweetest, fun loving temperaments. They have finished all of their puppy vaccines and are ready to go out on family outings and to training classes with you. Great early socialization, started leash training now as well. We repeated it! We have two red sable long coat males available now in the litter. They have excellent temperaments, great early socialization, and they come to you with their first two puppy vaccinations, current deworming, microchip and vet checked. He was the only male in the litter and his sisters have already found their new homes. He comes to you with great early socialization, his first two puppy vaccinations, current deworming, microchip and will be vet checked. This is Blossom's final litter before retirement so if you've wanted a sibling to your Blossom puppy this is your last chance! We are retaining one female from this great pairing as we were so impressed with their previous litter together. Puppies had super temperaments and great coloring and conformation. They will come to you with great early socialization, their first two puppy vaccinations, current deworming, microchip and will be vet checked. We are conveniently located in Wisconsin, two hours from Chicago. This makes us easily accessible to animal lovers all around the country. Shipping is also an option and our location means cross country shipments are not a problem. We also provide stud services in East Troy, WI. The Roche family has been raising and providing show quality German Shepherd puppies for sale since .Each of our dogs is raised in our home which socializes the animals and gives them a stable environment as they are starting their lives. We introduce the puppies to the outdoors at four weeks. At six weeks of age we begin their NuVet supplements which gives them an advantage as they begin their lives. German Shepherds are known as an exceptionally smart breed of dog. They are frequently utilized as bomb sniffing dogs as well as K-9 officers and for search and rescue operations. Because they possess such a good nature, they are also excellent pets for families with kids. For these reasons and more, German Shepherds are the most popular breed of dog in the world. Because of our strict breeding standards and excellent bloodlines, our dogs are highly sought after. They are extremely trainable, loyal, and hearty. We are also members of the American Kennel Club. Because we are a relatively small kennel, we are able to treat each animal with the individual attention it deserves. This ensures that the quality of our dogs is of the highest standard. Upcoming Litters What customers say about our puppies "Dedicated to a fault is only one way I would describe her, there are so many positives.Dedication, patience, and caring are truly not strong enough words. Audrey and I discussed her breeding line and I was most impressed! She took the time to explain her dog's lines, what some of them had gone on to do : police, detection, protections, pets - it was impressive. I was beyond happy that Audrey not only had the experience, but also had the educational degrees to back up what she was saying. I did not meet Audrey when this litter was born but instead there were a few male puppies available black and sable but none had been actually chosen yet. Audrey put me down for a sable male per my request. I knew I would not see whatever puppy was to be mine except through videos, pictures, etc….She would send videos, pictures, and just general updates. Audrey was always available and responded quickly to any correspondence. I sometimes wondered when she slept with all these clients and pups. Dedicated to a fault is only one way I would describe her, there are so many positives. One day Audrey sent a particular video and I fell in love. It is the fairest way to allow clients to choose. Audrey and I continued to correspond sometimes daily and she was amazing. A day or so later, Audrey let me know that this little guy was mine. I believe that Audrey does everything within her power to ensure that clients do receive the puppy they want if the fit is correct. Now, we had to transport this little man. Audrey and I communicated a lot! I had never had a puppy brought to my door physically unseen. This was completely new to me yet, I know dogs are flown all over the world. Together, Audrey and I navigated this last leg of the journey and I could not have asked for more from her. Dedication, patience, and caring are truly not strong enough words to use when describing how Audrey was during this process. Audrey ended up keeping my pup who was named Malachi for an extra week. While he was there, she taught him his name and sent pictures and videos often. They certainly made my day! Since Malachi has arrived home, he is nothing short of amazing! He is exactly as Audrey described him and the litter Daisy x Maverick focused, well behaved, eager to learn, and dark stunning sable! Exactly what a great breeder should do. My experience with North Mountain Kennels was wonderful. If you are looking for a well bred high quality working German Shepherd l highly recommend North Mountain Kennels. Audrey is in a class all of her own and I am grateful that the stars aligned so that I was able to be blessed with one of her pups. He is a true gift and I look forward to all the days ahead with him. Thank you Audrey! Currently Available Puppies. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!

Photo courtesy of littlerudyray on Instagram. As a rule of thumb, a Goldendoodle puppy should get about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day. Toy Goldendoodles should start out with short, 10 minute exercise sessions times per day as puppies. At 3 months in age, this can be increased to 15 minutes, at 4 months to 20 minutes, at 5 months to 25 minutes, and at 6 months to 30 minutes. Mini Goldendoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements Many prospective owners underestimate how much exercise mini Goldendoodles will need…they can be quite active! As an 8-week old puppy, you should start them off slow with 10 minute activity sessions, times per day. This can be short potty walks or small games of tug or fetch. When your miniature Goldendoodle reaches 4 months in age, you can increase their physical activity to 15 minute sessions, still occurring times daily. At 5 months, increase session lengths another 5 minutes. At 6 months, do the same again for a total of 25 minutes, times a day. Once your mini Goldendoodle is one, they can exercise in minute sessions, times daily. Around minutes, times per day is usually a good amount. Standard Goldendoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements Standard Goldendoodles require the most exercise of any size of this breed. Because of their large stature, however, you need to gradually increase the amount of physical activity extremely slowly as they grow up. At 6 months this amount can increase to 20 minutes and at 12 months it can increase to 25 minutes. At 18 months, a standard Goldendoodle should be getting minutes of exercise, times each day. This is a big range, but it depends on the personality and individual needs of your dog. For best results, combine walks with games of fetch and other fun activities! Once your standard Goldendoodle reaches years old, you can begin to lower their total amount of physical activity slightly. Photo courtesy of bodethedoodle on Instagram. Everyone knows that walks are a great option for getting your pup some exercise, but there are a lot of other great ways too! Just as important as how long your Goldendoodle puppy exercises for is what kind of exercise they do. This is fantastic mental stimulation for them! Puppy Play Dates — This makes for a great socialization opportunity as well as a chance for physical activity! Playtime — Games such as fetch and tug of war are fun options many Goldendoodles love. Keep games in control and avoid lots of jumping or high-impact movements. Climbing or Jumping — This applies to both indoor and outdoor activities. Even climbing stairs on a daily basis can do damage to developing bones. Opt to carry your dog instead. Extended Hiking Trips — Long distances with uneven trails combine to make hiking an unsafe activity while your puppy is still growing. How do you use up all that energy and wear out your Goldendoodle on days like these? Here are some of my favorite indoor activity ideas for Goldendoodles! Snuffle Ball or Mat Snuffle balls or snuffle mats are great ways to turn dinnertime into a fun challenge for your Goldendoodle! They then have to use their creativity and sense of smell to find and eat them! While not physically taxing, studies show that mental stimulation can have the same tiring effect on dogs that exercise does. Otherwise, there are plenty of great options available on Amazon, Chewy. Hide and Seek Trust me, this game will be fun and take you back to your childhood days! Start easy and work your way to harder hiding spots as your dog attempts to find you! They combine practical training concepts with fun activities making it a blast for your dog! How Far Can a Goldendoodle Walk? Keep in mind that standard Goldendoodles with their longer legs can walk further than toy or mini Goldendoodles can. More About Goldendoodles…. Goldendoodles need at least two hours of exercise every day to burn off any excess energy these dogs are generally known for having. If you find that you often have to leave your Goldendoodle home by itself for a longer amount of time due to work commitments, try to schedule the first walk before you leave home heading for work. There are several factors that will determine the time required to walk a pup. If you happen to live in an apartment with your Goldendoodle, the lack of room and no easy access to the outside world, mean that three walks a day are probably necessary. Dogs also require exercise to help support cardiovascular fitness, making their muscles and bones stronger, as well as securing the overall well-being of your dog. Routine As with every other dog breed, Goldendoodles prefers routines. As I mentioned above, if you have to leave early in the morning, go on a walk with him before leaving. When you get back home from going on a walk with your dog, you should wait around thirty minutes before you give him anything to eat. If you decide to feed your pup before going outside for their daily exercise, a good idea is to not bring them out until at least an hour has passed. Exercising a Goldendoodle just before or straight after eating a meal could end up giving your dog a bloat. Mixing it Up If you constantly take your Goldendoodle to the exact same place day in and day out for his walks, I can guarantee you it will quickly become boring for both your pup and you. The solution to this is to vary the walks once or twice a week. If you have no other option but to go to the same few places every time, at least try and take a different route once in a while to break up the monotony. A good idea can be to bring a ball, or perhaps even a frisbee with you. And that brings us to the next section. But can you count on the opposite also being the case? The first dogs that were ever bred, were because humans needed something that was loyal and could work for them every day. The tasks these dogs were put on could be anything from being guard dogs to tracking or hunting dogs. But no matter what job they had, there was one thing all the dogs always had in common, they needed a purpose with their lives, and being able to do the tasks they were meant for, gave them a lot of pride and joy every day. And while most dog owners do a pretty good job of stimulating their dogs physically, the mental aspect of training is often overlooked. A lot of dog owners have the inaccurate idea that as long as their pup just gets their sleep, food, and physical exercise, they will end up having a happy and satisfied dog. But dogs are intelligent animals. A Goldendoodle is one of the smartest dogs, and they have a need for mental stimulation that is equal to their need for physical exercise. Mental Stimulation Is Very Important If you can allocate an adequate amount of mental training, getting a happy and joyful dog is probably never going to happen, and instead you might end up with a pup with some serious behavior issues. Allow me to give you an example of why a lack of mental stimulation can lead to big problems. If you frequently go on long walks or hiking with your dog, his physical demands will be met quite easily. All creatures on earth need a certain amount of physical exercise to perform to their best, but we certainly also need to have our minds stimulated. When we need to do that, we can choose to read a book, solve a puzzle, watch a movie, or simply by surrounding ourselves and having conversations with other humans. Or going on a hiking adventure instead of having a lovely dinner with some awesome food and wine? I doubt a lot of people would think of those as excellent alternatives. Her program has some pretty awesome ways of looking at dog training, and a special focus on the mental part. There are quite a few ways where you can combine mental training with physical training. Public trips Try bringing your pup to a busy area such as the local supermarket or something like the parking lot of your nearest mall, and try spending 15 minutes there before going back home. Just by being in these places for some time, a dog will receive a lot of new impressions from hearing, smelling, and simply seeing numerous new and exciting things. Perhaps you can even add some different fetch and hide-and-seek games to the afternoon walk. All of these are things that will help stimulate a Goldendoodle both mentally and physically. Take your dog with you Have you ever considered bringing your dog with you if you have to go for a short drive to put gas on your car or going to buy those winning Powerball numbers? For most of us, a minute drive seems boring and something you have to get over with as soon as possible, but to a dog, this is a fantastic way to discover a whole new world of sounds and smells. Try bringing your dog out of the car when you arrive at your destination, and allow him to go number one in a bush somewhere in that area. This will also allow your Goldendoodle to leave a few of his own interesting smells for the next dog that might feel like dropping by. So even though a Goldendoodle has quite high exercise needs, if you follow the guidelines given above you should have some tips on how you can best handle any pup. If you walk your Goldendoodle times a day, at around minutes each time, you will end up with a happy and satisfied dog. And on top of that, I can almost guarantee that you will personally also end up as a much healthier and happier person. Just as your Goldendoodle will. 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. The exact amount of exercise your dog needs will depend on roughly how old they are. A small puppy will need minute walks or playtime several times a day. An adult Goldendoodle will still need at least minutes of exercise every day, even into their senior years. Goldendoodles come from two extremely active breeds. Expect this designer breed to be an active dog. Golden Retrievers were bred to gather waterfowl shot down in a hunt and so require lots of time outdoors and love being in and around the water. The Poodle parent was bred for much the same reason, although they originate in France or Germany according to popular theory while Golden Retrievers originate in England. Because of this, your Goldendoodle is going to be chock-full of energy and excitement! Goldendoodles with wavy or curly coats shed less — making them often the best pick for kids with allergies or asthma triggered by dogs. Goldendoodles love exploring, so hit your local trail and spend the day finding new paths. Not much of a hiker? No problem! Take your Goldendoodle on a quick jaunt around your neighborhood. Dog Parks. Socializing your puppy is extremely important, so taking them to a dog park is both a way to socialize and burn off energy. Plus, it lets your dog make some new friends to run around with! Obstacle Courses. This is a great way to get your dog moving and mentally stimulated at the same time! This can give them hours and hours of fun. If they are good then you can get professional dog training and even compete! Goldendoodles love the water! They also love going to the beach or lake. Whether it is a mini Goldendoodle or a larger dog — they will most likely take the the water or beach. Indoor Activities for Goldendoodles So going outside is a huge plus for Goldendoodles. You want a dog clicker sound to be loud but also not irritating Hide-the-Treat. Goldendoodles are clever, natural hunters that love to sniff out a problem… literally! Did I mention that your Goldendoodle loves you a lot? Like, a lot. Make sure you give them lots of love and maybe a treat or two after such dedicated detective work. Teach them new tricks. Goldendoodles are more than capable of learning new tricks, so pick a trick and spend the day teaching them to do it! It might sound goofy, but rolling around on the floor with your Goldendoodle is actually an awesome way to get them to exercise! Littermates will wrestle with each other all the time, so your puppy will naturally want to play around with you. Just be careful to show them where the limits are with nipping. A senior Goldendoodle might be less keen for the rough and tumble. Play with toys. Grab a rope toy and play tug-of-war , throw a stuffed toy down the hall for them to run after, or toss a ball in the air for them to catch! Not only is your doodle puppy getting exercise, so are you! This can lead to problems with their joints, digestive system, heart, and blood sugar. It can also make genetic conditions like hip dysplasia more intense or painful. That being said, getting too much exercise can wear on their joints as well. It might cause a thinning of the cartilage around the joint that might lead to arthritis or pain. Goldendoodles are also prone to genetic conditions. Hip dysplasia, again, is a major one, which can be worsened by excessive movement and hard impact landings. Make sure that as the Goldendoodle owner you take your pet in for regular checkups and caring for their joints as they age. An older Goldendoodle might enjoy the low-impact fun of going for a swim or a walk rather than running around like their younger counterparts love to do. If they do display any health problems, make sure to get them seen right away to prevent them from developing into anything serious. Goldendoodles are going to want to run around outside, chase things down, and get in the water whenever they can. This might be a problem for owners of very young puppies. They might get into a lot of trouble because of this natural curiosity. Keeping a close eye on your doodle puppy and making sure they have the proper training early on is absolutely essential. It keeps not only your Goldendoodle dog safe and happy but every dog and person they interact with. Puppy owners are also going to want to play with them often! This shows your dog that you care about them and that they can trust you. Can Goldendoodles swim? Do they like pools and beaches? The Best Environments for Goldendoodles Goldendoodles are an extremely social breed. They love being around people and other animals, so are perfect for families with other pets especially ones that can keep up with a Goldendoodle! Fortunately, homes with a fenced-in yard can be perfect for a Goldendoodle pup. They also do well as farm dogs, with plenty of room to run around and other animals to interact with. Goldendoodles Love to Move Like with any other kind of dog, owning a Goldendoodle means being dedicated to keeping them happy and healthy for a long time to come. Goldendoodles are fun, friendly dogs. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. With age, your dog will slowly have less energy and become prone to more medical problems. Maintaining an active lifestyle is still essential to keep them healthy and happy. After your dog reaches 7 to 9 years old, you should start slightly reducing how much exercise you provide him with. In general, a senior Goldendoodle will probably need from 30 to 45 minutes of low-impact physical activity. This can include gentle walking, swimming, or any other joint-friendly workout. This mixed-breed is generally healthy, but they are still prone to certain problems. He might have specific conditions that can restrict him from doing too much or too vigorous physical activity. Goldendoodles are extremely active and playful companions. However, some of them are much more hyper than others. Each dog has a different level of energy, even those of the same breed. To determine how much exercise your Goldendoodle needs, you should consider his capacity to sustain physical activity. The more energy he has, the more workouts you should provide him to spend it. Mixed-breed dogs have drastically different temperaments and traits depending on their breeding. As you might have noticed, there are many variations in a Goldendoodle. There are so many sizes and types of Goldendoodles. In general, the larger they are, the more exercise they need. However, their personality and fitness level can still influence their requirements. His weight, temperament, and many other factors determined by his type of Goldendoodle breeding can help you figure out how much exercise he needs. As they are much smaller than the standard Goldendoodle, their exercise requirements are proportional to their size. Thus, anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes of physical activity should be fine to keep your Mini Goldendoodle healthy and happy. Overall, there are many elements to consider if you want to keep your Goldendoodle healthy and happy. Keep in mind that every dog has unique needs and conditions. Now let me share with you the three main ways to exercise him. Mental Stimulation. For pets, daily walks are much more than potty breaks. In general, a healthy adult Goldendoodle should get at least 15 to 30 minutes of walking every day. Nonetheless, such an active mixed-dog breed can be able to walk much longer. Up to 8 miles You should ideally provide your Goldendoodle with 2 daily walks totaling between 30 and 60 minutes. More vigorous exercise such as running, hiking, and fetch is also essential for his well-being. Goldendoodles: what are they? Goldendoodles are a popular hybrid breed resulting from the crossbreeding of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They were originally bred to create a hypoallergenic and non-shedding dog that possesses the friendly and intelligent traits of both parent breeds. Goldendoodles come in different sizes, including standard, medium, and miniature. The average height of a standard Goldendoodle can range from 53 to 63 cm, while miniatures stand at about 38 to 48 cm. They typically weigh between 11 to 32 kg, depending on their size. The life expectancy of a Goldendoodle is generally between 10 and 15 years. What is the temperament of Goldendoodles like? Goldendoodles are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They tend to be outgoing, affectionate, and eager to please, making them great companions for individuals and families alike. With their intelligence and willingness to learn, they are highly trainable and excel in activities such as obedience training, agility, and even therapy work. Goldendoodles are generally good with children and other pets, although early socialisation and proper training are still important. Arnie, the Goldendoodle How much exercise do Goldendoodles need? Goldendoodles are energetic and active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They benefit from approximately 1 to 2 hours of exercise each day. This can include activities like brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, or engaging in interactive games. Mental stimulation is also crucial for Goldendoodles, so puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive play sessions are highly recommended. However, keep in mind that individual exercise needs may vary depending on the dog's age, size, and overall health. Consulting with your vet can provide tailored advice for your Goldendoodle's exercise routine. Puppies have specific exercise requirements that should be adjusted according to their age and physical development. For Goldendoodle puppies, short, controlled playtime and gentle exercise are ideal to prevent injury and strain on growing joints. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of exercise as your puppy grows. Avoid strenuous activities and excessive jumping until their skeletal system is fully developed, which typically occurs around 12 to 18 months of age. Your vet can advise on an exercise regime for your individual Doodle. Daisy, the Goldendoodle Do Goldendoodles need a lot of grooming? Goldendoodles have a variety of coat types, including wavy, curly, or straight. Their coat is usually low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a good option for individuals with allergies, but always remember that hypoallergenic does not mean they will cause no allergic reaction. Borrowing a dog is a great way to get an idea if your allergies are affected by a Goldendoodle before you take on your own. However, grooming requirements can vary depending on the type of coat. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and keep the coat clean and tangle-free. Aim for brushing sessions at least 2 to 3 times a week. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks may be required to maintain the coat's length and overall appearance. Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. Millie, the Goldendoodle Are Goldendoodles easy to train? Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and eager to please, which contributes to their trainability. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. Start training from an early age to establish good behaviour and socialisation skills. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when training Goldendoodles. Keep training sessions engaging and fun to prevent boredom. Goldendoodles thrive in environments where they receive mental stimulation and have a job to do. With the right approach, they can excel in various training activities and become well-behaved, obedient companions. Tommy, the Goldendoodle What do Goldendoodles eat? Feeding your Goldendoodle a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Choose high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. Puppies should be fed puppy-specific food until they reach around 12 months of age to support their growth and development. Puppies should be fed times a day until they are 6 months old, then twice daily. At around 12 months old, depending on the brand of food and vet recommendations, gradual change on to an adult dog food. Monitor their weight and adjust their portions accordingly to prevent obesity. Are Goldendoodles healthy? Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions. It's important to be aware of potential health concerns, which can include: Bones and Joints Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis Eyes Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA - this is when the retina of the eye breaks down, leading to blindness Skin Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation. Ear infections - the ear canal, and sometimes the ears flaps have an overgrowth of bacteria, yeast etc. BorrowMyDoggy loves Goldendoodles BorrowMyDoggy has Goldendoodle members Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet. Poodle Guides. November 7, Uncategorized How much exercise does a puppy need? A Goldendoodle puppy loves to play, but even the most playful puppy has a finite amount of energy. Should you let sleeping dogs lie, or should you make sure that your puppy get as much exercise as possible? Here are some things to consider when planning activity for your Goldendoodle puppy. It can help improve their behavior and help them sleep better at night. A little bit at a time Young puppies need playtime in small amounts throughout the day. The Kennel Club — the oldest recognized kennel club in the world — suggests that you give your puppy five minutes of exercise per month of age, twice a day. If your puppy is two months old, play outside for ten minutes at a time. If your puppy is 6 months of age, you can take him on a couple of 30 minute walks without trouble. Goldendoodles are active dogs A Goldendoodle puppy can be more active for longer periods of time than a Pug, Bulldog, or other less active dog breeds. If your puppy has an endless supply of energy, increase the number of times he goes for a walk or plays in the yard rather than increase the duration of playtime. Be careful with larger dogs Too much exercise at a young age can lead to bone and joint problems in large breed dogs. A Goldendoodle puppy can grow up to be anywhere between 45 to 90 pounds. If your Goldendoodle is on the larger end of the spectrum, be mindful about playtime. Avoid long walks and hikes. Keep the distance below one to two miles, and the time below 30 minutes to one hour for the first few months. Some dogs need to let more energy out than others. Does your pup start sitting down or lying down instead of running, chasing, and retrieving? Does your dog run and romp even after playtime? Maybe he needs more playtime. A Goldendoodle puppy is one of the easiest dogs you can raise. They are sweet, loving, smart, and easy to train. They love to play and they also love to relax. Looking for a Goldendoodle puppy in Arkansas? Call or contact Platinum Goldendoodles today! By Kern Campbell This article is about how far a mini Goldendoodle can walk? Does it seem each day there is a new breed of canine? With each new breed, there comes a new set of rules for exercise, nutrition, and health concerns. This breed gives you the best of each with a splash of mischief. As you settle in with your new pup, it is always wise to start the bonding process. Walking your puppy is a good start in achieving a strong bond between the two of you. On average, about eight 8 miles a week. Of course, this depends on age, daily activity, and diet. Goldendoodles are known for being active always attempting to entertain the family. Daily exercise is always important, as this will keep your puppy in great shape. Walking your Goldenpoo which is another name, will assist is socialization with other animals and people. Exercising is only part of giving proper care to your canine. Diet plays a major role in the health of your puppy, as well. Mini Goldendoodle has an abundance of energy, especially when they are puppies. Usually, a daily walk of up to minutes is good to exert that energy. However, if your pup still shows signs of pent up energy a fun game of catch for about 15 minutes will take of it. The daily walk you have with your pup is an excellent way of bonding for you both. Is a Goldendoodle a good running partner? Check out this popular article to find out more. The age of the dog will factor in the length of your daily walks or exercise. We all know a puppy has an endless amount of energy, while an older dog may prefer to bask in the sun. For an older dog, a good 10 minutes of walking or even a quick 5 minute game of fetch will provide some good exercise. If your older dog has health issues and unable to engage in a prolonged physical activity, then a nice doggie body massage will be greatly beneficial for them. Daily exercise loosens up their joints, keeps them alert, and sharp. Regardless of age, every dog can benefit from daily exercise. Each type of canine breed has a unique nutrition regime that is designed for its pedigree. For instance, Golden Retrievers have high energy, so their diet must meet the needs to maintain. Different breeds will metabolize food differently therefore the ingredients of their food are key in their nutrition. This is no different for the Mini Goldendoodle. Daily caloric intake is usually between calories for a miniature Goldendoodle. Of course, depending on the size and activity level of your pup will be a factor. An older dog requires fewer calories since they are less active. Older miniatures prefer to cuddle up with you while you watch tv or read a good book. The best nutrition for any breed is a clean diet. This is also known as a raw diet. You must be careful since any additives such as hormones and preservatives will interfere in the digestion. Be sure to maintain the same diet as changing their food frequently can lead to intestine issues. When you change their food or diet, do it gradually to ensure a proper transition. Whether you choose traditional dry food or a raw diet, there are many wonderful options from budget-friendly to high dollar for you and your beloved dog. Every dog should be exercised daily or have some type of activity throughout the day. This can be walking, some basic training, swimming , game of fetch, or even putting them on a treadmill. The best exercise should involve the bonding process between the two of you. However, some households are busy and exercising their pup daily may go to the wayside. It is unfortunate yet sometimes it is unavoidable. The consequences for a lack of exercise can have serious consequences on your dog regardless of breed. However, a Mini Goldendoodle is extremely social and active. Without exercise this can lead to anxiety, restlessness, aggression, chewing, and become anti-social. If you are unable to provide exercise, then at least allow them to have engaging toys in which they will be able to work their minds in problem-solving. Toys will also assist in them learning how to play by themselves. Of course, this should not be a replacement for exercise but for the short term, it is an excellent alternative. Toys are excellent for dogs in developing important social, mental, and behavioral skills. The type of toy is important since it depends on the disposition of your mini. Is your put active or laid back? An active dog will enjoy toys that utilize their cognitive skills. Puzzles are excellent for a dog that bores easily or manages to get into mischief. Mini Goldendoodles are intelligent. If they are bored, they can be destructive as they are looking for mental stimulation. They are natural problem solvers so they need to remain mentally active. Here are some toy suggestions for your mini. Goldendoodles were created to combine the even temperament and sweet nature of Golden Retrievers with the uncanny intelligence and allergy-friendly coat of the Poodle into one extraordinary crossbreed. The resulting puppies are the best of both breeds and usually packed with energy! How much exercise does a Goldendoodle puppy need? Goldendoodles are fairly energetic and growing puppies will need daily exercise and play. Experts often suggest using the rule-of-thumb of 5 minutes for every month of age up to two times per day. So for a 4-month-old puppy, 20 minutes of exercise twice each day would be sufficient. They love jumping, but try to limit them jumping on and off couches, beds, stairs, and other high surfaces. New to Goldendoodles and still trying to find answers to all your questions? We have the perfect solution! Topics such as generations, coat types, shedding, health concerns, and grooming that gorgeous coat are all thoroughly addressed, because as you know by now, Goldendoodles are not your average dogs. Take the guesswork out of the equation and start raising your Doodle with confidence. Pick up your copy today! Suitable Types of Exercises for Puppies Puppies learn all about the world around them and figure out their part in it through play. They learn which items are acceptable to play with and which ones get them into trouble. Proper puppy etiquette is learned through play, as well as the relationship between cause and effect drop toy in water, toy gets soggy. Aside from short walks around the block, how can you make sure that your puppy is getting enough daily exercise without risking permanent injury to his fragile little body? Believe it or not, the answer is quite simple. Play with him! Puppies Love Playtime! Well, games such as hide-and-seek will provide a good workout for your pup and mentally stimulate him as well. Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Mental Stimulation for a complete explanation and useful tips and ideas. A toned-down version of fetch is appropriate too. Tug-of-war is always fun, but remember to let your puppy do all the tugging. You just hold the other end and enjoy watching him exert all his little might into pulling that toy out of your grasp. Be sure to let him win occasionally to boost his confidence. Check Price on Amazon Gentle wrestling matches are a natural occurrence among littermates, so recreate this game with your Goldendoodle. Perfect for Puppies Walks around the block on a leash, keeping it casual and fun. Jogging or biking for any significant stretch might be too much for a smaller puppy. Free play in the yard with some toys. Let them run and play and have fun with them! If things get too exciting, try and calm them a bit. Long stretches of running and really vigorous play at the puppy stage might be too much. Walking around the house is always fine for a pup, you can guide him or her along with you to get some exercise. Climbing stairs, hills, or really long stretches of strenuous activity, you need to watch for signs they are okay. A fun game of fetch or tug-of-war is a popular way to get in some exercise with puppies around the world! Again watch for signs of too much. Puppies are still growing and developing. Too much can put strain on their joints at this age. Understandably, many new Goldendoodle owners are eager to take their puppy on long walks to show him off to as many people as possible. Two short walks per day is plenty. You see, when puppies are actively growing, their joints and skeletal systems are not yet fully developed. Bones have not yet fully solidified and the growth plates found at the ends of the long leg bones are still open, soft, and prone to injury. Activities that involve repetitive, jarring movements, such as landing after catching an airborne Frisbee, should be put off until the puppy is at least 12 months old. High-impact exercises that put pressure on joints, like agility weave poles, should be avoided as well. Also, refrain from forced exercise, like biking with your leashed puppy. Bear in mind the general rule of 5 minutes of exercise for each month of age up to two times per day, and remember that going for a walk is exercise. This means that if you walk your 2-month-old puppy for 10 minutes in the morning and again that evening, his exercise needs have been met. Playtime is critical to puppy development and does indeed count as exercise. Get Your Copy Today! As Goldendoodles mature, the amount of daily exercise needed increases because they are not spending as much energy growing as they once were. On average, an adult Goldendoodle needs at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise every day to stay fit and in good condition. Exercise not only keeps your Goldendoodle in tip-top shape but also: prevents obesity. Try to teach them to keep all their feet on the floor when they are running and playing. If they love to jump, try to limit them from jumping on and off furniture, couches, beds, stairs, and other high surfaces. This repetitive high-impact motion can cause lots of problems and can damage their developing joints What are suitable types of exercises for a Goldendoodle puppy Your Goldendoodle puppy will learn about the world around them and find out their part in the world through play. They will learn what things are good to play with and which things get them into trouble. Correct puppy etiquette is usually learned through play, as well as cause-and-effect relationships, such as if I put my toy in my water bowl, it gets wet. Other than a short walk around the block, there are many things that you can do to make sure that your Goldendoodle puppy is getting enough daily exercise without risking permanent injury to their little body. By just playing with your Goldendoodle puppy, they will usually get plenty of exercise. Goldendoodle Puppies Love Playtime! How often and what kinds of activities should you play with your Goldendoodle puppy? These are some fun games that you can play with your Goldendoodle puppy that will help keep them safe yet let them burn off some of their energy. Hide and seek: Games such as hide-and-seek will provide a great workout for you and your puppy and will also mentally stimulate them as well. Fetch: A slow version of fetch is also appropriate. Do not throw the ball very far or play until they drop from exhaustion. Tug-of-war: Tug-of-war is always a lot of fun, but remember to let your puppy do all the tugging. If you pull too hard, you can hurt your Goldendoodle puppy. You will just hold the other end of the rope toy and enjoy watching them exert all their little might into pulling that toy out of your hands. Make sure to let your Goldendoodle puppy occasionally win to boost their confidence. Wrestling: Gentle wrestling matches are a normal occurrence among littermates. Recreating this game with your Goldendoodle puppy will give them a great way to play. Remember that most puppies are always testing their limits. If your Goldendoodle puppy becomes a little too rambunctious or biting during wrestling, you need to teach them that this is not acceptable behavior. Puppies are great at letting you know when they have had enough. You will notice them lying down to rest, overall slowing down or panting. This is the time that they need a break. Some puppies will even refuse to continue playing or walk away when they are tired. The younger your Goldendoodle puppy is, the more time they will need to rest after playing. Goldendoodle puppies should dictate what exercise and for how long you do them. These are a few suggestions of great activities and not-so-good activities to do with your Goldendoodle Puppy Good Exercises for Goldendoodle Puppies Walks around the block on a leash. Make sure that this is at a slow enjoyable pace. Playtime in the backyard with some toys. Let your Goldendoodle run and play while you are having fun with them! Sometimes they can get too excited. Try to keep them calm. Play a fun game of fetch or tug of war. This is a great way to get in some exercise with your Goldendoodle puppy Bad Exercises For Goldendoodle Puppies Long jogs or bike rides for any significant length might be too much for a small puppy. Do not make your Goldendoodle try to keep up with you; go at their pace. Long runs and very vigorous playtimes at the puppy stage may be too much for your Goldendoodle. Climbing stairs, hills, or very long stretches of strenuous activity. During these activities, you will need to watch for signs that your Goldendoodle puppy is okay. Let your dog dictate the intensity and length of your exercise. Puppies are still growing and developing. Too much exercise can put a strain on their joints when they are a puppy. Your Goldendoodle puppy will only need about two short walks a day. Most Goldendoodle owners want to take their puppies for walks and show them off to their friends and neighbors. This usually is not the best for your Goldendoodle. Goldendoodle puppies are very quickly growing. Their joints and bones are not fully developed. There are growth plates that are found at the end of the long bones in their legs that are soft and susceptible to injuries. Any activity that involves repetitive, jarring movements, such as landing after catching a Frisbee or tennis ball in the air, should not be done until your Goldendoodle puppy is at least 12 months old. Other high-impact exercises that can put pressure on their joints, like agility weave poles, should be avoided. It is also best not to force your Goldendoodle puppy to exercise or force them to keep up with you during a bike ride. Remember that any playtime is considered exercise. Even going for a walk is exercise. Your adult Goldendoodle will not demand as much exercise and playtime as a puppy. Generally, a walk once every day or two is enough exercise for an adult Goldendoodle. They can usually entertain themselves, play with toys, or run around the backyard. Taking your adult Goldendoodle for a walk is a wonderful exercise for both you and your dog. Daily walks should not be the only form of exercise your Goldendoodle receives. Just like people, your dog can grow bored very quickly with the same routine day after day. Make sure to spice up his exercise program now and then with some variety. Even changing up the walking route can help keep your Goldendoodle from getting bored. Playing games such as fetch, hide-and-seek, Frisbee, and tug-of-war with your adult Goldendoodle are also a great way to give your dog a healthy workout while having a lot of fun at the same time. This will really help change their workout routine and liven things up. There are usually many different jogging and hiking trails that you can take with your Goldendoodle. These different routes can usually add a bit of variety as well. Adult Goldendoodles love to be active in different dog sports. You can look into dog sports such as agility or flyball. You can easily set up your own version of these courses in your backyard. Dog sports not only provide plenty of exercise for your Goldendoodle but also provides a lot of mental stimulation that your Goldendoodle will need. Dog sport can help strengthen the bond between you and your Goldendoodle and give you a fun activity that you both can participate in. The amount of exercise you should give your senior Goldendoodle depends on their mobility and general health. You should encourage them to stay active, but you should consciously make sure they play less hard and less often than they did when they were young. As your Goldendoodle gets older, their mobility is also going to decline. But this does not mean senior Goldendoodle does not need to exercise. Keeping your Goldendoodle active can also keep them healthier for longer. Even though your senior Goldendoodle may not be running as far or playing as long as they used to, there are many things you can do to help keep them healthy and active. Exercising your Goldendoodle will not only help keep their mind active but also help keep them at a healthy weight with a strong body. No matter what physical limitation your older Goldendoodle has, there is always something fun that they can be doing to help keep them happy and healthy. These are some common things you can do with your senior Goldendoodle. This does not change based on their age. Walking is a great low-impact exercise that you can do with your older Goldendoodle. As your Goldendoodle gets older, you will have to pay attention to the speed that you walk and the weather. Older dogs are more sensitive to the sudden changes in temperature and usually cannot keep up with the same pace they did when they were a puppy. Make sure that the time of day you take your older Goldendoodle will allow them to be comfortable the whole walk. Early in the morning and later in the afternoon are best for hot summer days, whereas the middle of the day would be best during the winter months. When taking your senior Goldendoodle for a walk, the type of terrain that they are walking on will affect their balance. It is best to walk them on soft surfaces such as grass or sand. Monitor your dog during and after a walk. If your Goldendoodle is stiff after a walk or seems like they do not want to continue the walk, decrease the speed and the distance that you are walking. Make sure that your Goldendoodle is enjoying their walk and having fun. Taking Your Senior Goldendoodle For A Swim If you have a swimming pool or a lake that you can take your Goldendoodle to for exercise, it will help your older Goldendoodle be able to exercise. Swimming is a great way for your senior Goldendoodle to exercise. This is a great whole-body workout that is also easy on the joints. Swimming is an easy and safe way to let your dog strengthen their muscles while still providing comfort to their joints. This is commonly used in physical therapy for dogs who have had major orthopedic surgeries. There may be a local rehab center that would allow you to bring your dog to their pool for a swim. If you do take your older Goldendoodle to the lake, it is best for them to wear a life vest. They can get out into the deep water and be in trouble before you can get there to save them. This is also great for dogs who are not advanced swimmers. Some dogs are afraid of water and should never be put in a situation where they are scared. If your dog loves water, swimming is a great way to exercise your senior Goldendoodle. There are many other low-impact exercises you can do with your Goldendoodle. Yoga for dogs and dog Pilates are becoming very popular. These activities provide a lot of mental and physical stimulation. There are many local yoga and Pilates places that offer classes for you and your dog. Your dog can also benefit from many indoor activities. Dog puzzles or tug of war will help keep your dog entertained and active. If your older Goldendoodle is suffering from a medical problem, you will want to make sure that the physical activity that you are doing does not cause any extra stress on these muscles or joints. If you need help with exercises for your older Goldendoodle, consult with your vet. Always watch your dog while exercising and make sure that they are not overdoing it. If you notice things are becoming more difficult or painful, do not do it. How To Exercise Your Goldendoodle A lot of pet owners tend to solely rely on walks when exercising their dogs. Technically, anything that gets your dog actively moving would qualify as exercise. Feel free to make adjustments based on your schedule as well as the needs of your pup. Try the following types of exercises with your Goldendoodle. City Parks Your local city park is the perfect place to take your dog out regularly. This kind of environment provides your Goldendoodle with plenty of excitement and things to sniff. Most parks require you to keep your dog leashed — whereas others allow you to take them off and let them run around. If you can take the leash off, bringing a ball or frisbee with you is a great way to give your dog some additional physical activity. Dog Parks The best thing about taking your Goldendoodle to an official dog park is that you can let it run wild without having to monitor it constantly. There should be plenty of furry friends around for your Goldendoodle to entertain itself with. This is a great way to tire out your dog, as well as socialize it with other pups at the park. You may find that dog park days offer more than enough excitement for your Goldendoodle to be tired for the whole day afterward. Naturally, you can change up the length of your walks based on your schedule, making this one of the most flexible ways to exercise your four-legged friend. Play Dates If you have friends with dogs, feel free to organize a play session with them so that your pups can meet and tire each other out together. Alternatively, when you notice that your Goldendoodle gets along with another dog at the park, exchange contacts and ask to arrange a meeting time that works for both of you. You can meet people within your community and exercise your pup in one fell swoop. Jogging Getting enough exercise in our own lives can often be a challenge, especially when we need to dedicate two hours of physical activity to our Goldendoodles each day. If you are an active runner, feel free to take out your Goldendoodle with you on your daily jogs. This is a great way to exercise your Goldendoodle, but you should not overdo it. Young Goldendoodles and senior Goldendoodles in particular will not handle this kind of physical activity very well. Goldendoodles in their prime between the age of 2 to 8 years will benefit greatly from this kind of vigorous exercise. Just make sure not to run for more than 5 to 10 miles per day with your Goldendoodle. So does your Goldendoodle! Your four-legged friend is itching to explore uncharted territory, and there is no better place to do it than a nature trail. Hiking trails are an excellent way to give you and your dog the exercise you both need. Nature provides plenty of excitement for your dog and its senses will be stimulated in more ways than one. In addition to the physical benefits of hiking with your pup, your Goldendoodle also gets to sniff out new places. If you end up liking a local trail, make it a weekly stop and incorporate it into your exercise routine. A trip to the ocean is never a bad idea, and your pup will love this variation in its routine. Most dog beaches allow you to take your Goldendoodle off the leash so that it can run around without being restrained. This allows you to calmly stroll down the beach with your pup or sit back and watch it entertain itself. You may not always be in the mood to take your dog on a two-hour walk, and understandably so. After a long day of work, a solid indoor play session will suffice for quality exercise. In addition, bad weather can sometimes be a limitation. Toys Keeping some toys around the house to entertain your Goldendoodle is essential. While you should normally try to participate in playtime with your pup, just leaving toys out for your dog to enjoy can also technically qualify as some form of physical activity. Interactive squeaky toys give your pup mental stimulation and keep them engaged. However, if you really want to give your dog some legitimate exercise without lifting a finger, I recommend buying an automatic ball thrower. Your Goldendoodle will quickly learn how to use this machine and this allows your furry friend to play fetch all by itself. This is a great option for anyone with a busy schedule who is struggling to find time for the full two hours of exercise each day. Although exercise is very important for your Goldendoodle, too much of it is also not good. Daily Goldendoodle exercise should not exceed 2 hours unless your dog is giving you signals that it wants more physical activity. While your dog needs to exercise too much can cause some problems. These are common problems seen with a Goldendoodle who has exercised too much. They are limping. If your dog has gone for a walk, bike, or hike and is now limping, they may have been exercising too much. For the next few days, take very short walks or skip them altogether. This will allow your dog to heal and be able to go for long walks again. It is best to work up to more strenuous exercises slowly. Your Goldendoodle may just be lazy, but if they do not want to go outside and play, do not force them. Some dogs are perfectly happy being couch potatoes, and you will have to force them to exercise each day. If your dog is suddenly refusing exercise, they may have gotten too much exercise for that day They are sick. If your dog is sick, they will not want to go for a walk. If you notice anything off with your Goldendoodle, it is best to take them to see your vet. They can make sure that your dog does not have anything serious going on, causing them not to want to exercise. They are panting. If your dog is panting when you come back in from exercising, they may have overworked themselves. Some panting is okay, but if they have a hard time cooling down, the next time you take them out, decrease the amount of time that they spend exercising. Also, if it is summertime and very hot outside, try exercising early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Signs Your Goldendoodle Needs More Exercise If your Goldendoodle is not getting enough exercise, there are some signs that you can look for. These signs are: Weight gain: Most Goldendoodles are happy just lying around the house and not outside playing. Most of these dogs can quickly become couch potatoes if you let them. If you notice that your Goldendoodle has become lazier and is putting on a few extra pounds, they could benefit from some added exercise time. Destructive Behavior: Destructive behavior is another sign that your Goldendoodle is not getting enough of a workout each day. Because of the Golden Retriever in their breed, a Goldendoodle can start to chew on things that are off-limits, especially when they are bored or frustrated by extra stored energy. Excessive energy: Excessive amounts of energy are a common sign that your Goldendoodle needs more physical activity. Every dog has a certain energy level. Some dogs need more exercise than others do in order to burn off that extra energy. When you let your Goldendoodle out to play, and they explode out the door and wildly dashes around the yard in endless laps, consider adding another walk or increasing the length of the walks that you take your Goldendoodle on. Also, consider adding another vigorous play session each day. Out of Shape: If your Goldendoodle has trouble keeping up with you on a walk or they get tired very quickly when playing might be out of shape. It is always best to take them to the vet to make sure that there are no medical issues causing this lack of stamina. If not, your Goldendoodle may just be out of shape. You can gradually increase the amount of exercise until they are fit once again.

A fox red and traditional yellow Lab, flanked by a pair of black Labs. Black, yellow, and chocolate are the three traditional coat colors recognized by the AKC. If you ask the American Kennel Club , those are the only acceptable colors for a Labrador. And even then, those dogs must have other specific color features like dark noses and lips to count as true Labradors. But lately, non-traditional Labrador retriever colors have increased in popularity. The coats on these dogs look like faded versions of the traditional colors. Charcoal, silver, champagne, and white Labs have all emerged on the scene. So where did these new colors come from? Are they associated with health problems? A yellow Lab rests with her black pups. The dogs that Labs originate from, St. Once multiple generations of Labrador retrievers reproduced, recessive-gene colors like chocolate and yellow emerged from other bloodlines. The sire and dam that produce the litter of puppies pass down those genes to the offspring. Natalie Krebs The black coat color gene is dominant, Wilson explains. The chocolate coat gene, on the other hand, is recessive. Say two black Labs breed and produce a litter of pups. If just one of the parents—in this example, the sire—has all-black genes, none of their puppies will be chocolate. All the pups will be black Labs. Chocolate Labrador retrievers carry the recessive gene for coat color. If two chocolate Labs produce a litter, all the pups will be chocolate, too. The same is true for a black Lab that breeds a chocolate Lab. If the black Lab only has black genes to pass down, all their puppies will be black. But if that black Lab has a recessive chocolate gene to pass down, the litter could include both black and chocolate pups. Two chocolate Labs can only produce a chocolate litter, Wilson explains. All these dogs—the parents and the offspring—only have recessive chocolate genes. This yellow Lab was bred from a black female and a fox red male. Natalie Krebs Yellow coats come from an entirely different pair of genes than black or brown coats. Yellow Labs have the widest range in coat color while remaining within the AKC breed standard, Wilson says. Yellow Labs must have dark, heavily-pigmented noses, eyes, and lips, but their fur can range from a lighter vanilla to fox red. But in reality, the earliest yellow Labs were fox red, Wilson says. The color was first documented toward the end of the 19th century, and today, this coat variation is well within the AKC breed standard for yellow Labs. One of the more common falters is the light brown or pink nose, lips, and eyes. But from a health perspective, says Wilson, yellow Labs with light features are more prone to complications. Yellow Labs fall outside the AKC breed standard when their lips, nose, and skin around the eyes is pink, rather than black. These types of Labs are often referred to as Dudley Labs. This can make the skin more prone to sunburn or melanoma. Lighter, more sensitive eyes also make it harder for the dog to work properly in the field. Black Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular bird dogs in the country. Alex Robinson The best traditional Labrador retriever color is, of course, a matter of personal preference. Each color has their pros and cons. Yellow Labs Are harder to disguise in marsh and timber Are tougher to keep track of during an upland bird hunt since they tend to blend into grassy cover Identifying ticks, cuts, and abrasions is easier on their light coats Black Labs Are easier to disguise in many waterfowl environments, including marsh and timber Are easier to spot while working thick upland cover Their dark coat makes it harder to notice ticks, blood, and thorns Chocolate Labs Are the least traditional of the traditional Labrador retriever colors Have amassed a loyal following over the years Blend well into most habitat types and environments Non-Traditional Labrador Retriever Colors If a puppy inherits the recessive dilute gene from both parents, its coat will be diluted, or lighter in color. Chocolate Labs will turn silver in appearance. Black Labs will become charcoal, chocolate Labs will turn silver, and yellow Labs will turn either champagne or what is known as polar white. Dilute breeding to produce non-traditional Labrador retriever coat colors has its controversies. The practice is particularly frustrating to the traditional Labrador retriever community that strictly adheres to AKC purebred standards. Wilson rehashes a story of the first documented silver Lab, which she says was supposedly born in Wisconsin in to a chocolate Lab female and a chocolate Lab male. But the breeder, who Wilson says she knew about through a friend, was having trouble with a Weimaraner on his property at the time. When the litter arrived, some of the pups were chocolate Labs and some were silver. Silver Labrador retrievers have become wildly popular across the country. They forwarded the information to the AKC, who dispatched a field inspector to determine the genetics of the pups. This was a tricky assignment in the era before modern DNA testing and microchips. The breeder presented a chocolate female as the dam and said the sire, which had been on loan as a stud, was back in the northern part of the state. Silver Labs can have the exact same personalities and capabilities as traditional-colored Labs. Courtesy of Peggy Stalnaker Stalnaker, who breeds dilute Labs at DuckCreek, doubts this version of the silver Lab origin story, given what she knows about dilute genetics. Her hunch is that a few true recessive dilute puppies were born by accident. Stalnaker points out that this book was published well before the first documented cases of dilute Labs in the United States. The charcoal Labrador retriever is darker than silver and comes from a black Lab with the dilute gene. When dilute Labs became popular, she explains, attempts to meet consumer demand resulted in some problematic inbreeding. This resulted in dilute Labs that were less genetically diverse and had higher chances of genetic health issues. But Stalnaker puts all her dogs through extensive genetic testing to determine any predispositions for these issues, which range from dwarfism to exercise-induced collapse syndrome to excessively dry noses. Their fur would be really thin. She has avoided this by breeding in non-diluted Labs that possess the dilute gene. This means some of her puppies are traditional colors and some are diluted. But the diluted Labs have less disorder-prone genetic codes thanks to the genetic diversity from the non-diluted sire and dam. Her customers have been happy with their DuckCreek Labs. She recalls one man who flew to Kansas from south Georgia to pick up a silver puppy and fly it home. She cites the time commitment as a barrier. Despite criticism from traditional Labrador loyalists like Wilson, some owners still register dilute Labs under traditional AKC colors. Choosing a certain color Lab is really a matter of personal preference. If anybody is nasty, I just block them. The new variety of Labrador retriever colors is probably here to stay, since the consumer demand is high. But the dilute Labs will probably remain on the outskirts of the Lab community for the foreseeable future, while the traditional Labrador retriever colors of black, chocolate, and yellow continue to win hearts and field trials alike. Katie Hill Katie Hill is a staff writer for Outdoor Life where she covers outdoor news, hunting, and conservation in the West. She still lives in Missoula. Articles When we think of Labrador Retrievers, the classic triad of black, yellow, and chocolate coat options. However, this popular dog breed actually comes in more colors and patterns than that. Besides the common Black Labrador you normally see, there are actually 13 different aesthetic options Labrador Retrievers can come in, in terms of coat type, colors, and patterns. These include rarer variations like the Dudley Labrador and Merle Labrador variations. In the sections below, we shall take a closer look at all these variations in terms of how to spot them and anything else that makes each unique. Dudley Image from Best Bully Sticks Dudley Labradors are a variation of the Labrador breed born without any pigment on their nose, eyes, or paw pads. These surfaces appear pink, red, or a very light shade of pinkish-brown. Dudley Labradors are usually light-colored and may either be a very light shade of yellow or all-white. Their eyes are also a characteristically light shade of brown. The genes responsible for the Dudley trait on Labradors are generally unproblematic. However, the lack of pigmentation leaves the nose of the Labrador exposed to sunburns. Merle Image from Instagram: smillasdogdiary Merle Labradors are some of the most unique-looking dogs in general and not just in the Labrador breed. They can be recognized by the presence of dark, mottled patches on a white or other light-colored coat. The patches on a Merle Labrador are of different sizes and distributed randomly. The merle gene responsible for this trait also affects pigmentation and can give the Labrador blue eyes, especially if they are bred from two Merle Labs. Unfortunately, the gene is also associated with eye and ear diseases which are also more commonly found in double-merle settings. What makes them common is the fact that there are several genetic combinations that give this trait. They are also unique in that Black Labrador puppies can result from breeding yellow or even chocolate-colored Labs. Due to their wide availability, Black Labradors are arguably the most popular variation. They are also believed to be smarter and more hardworking than the other variations, even though there is no scientific basis for this. They have a predominantly black coat with tan markings. The markings are usually distributed in a predictable manner over the body. This includes markings over the eyes, on the snout, neck, chest, and limbs. However, these will have mixed features and may not fully look like typical Labs. It appears as a dark shade of brown, very similar to chocolate or liver. Among the 3 most acceptable Labrador colors, Chocolate Labs are the rarest. This is because the genetic combination responsible for the trait only appears rarely. Even with breeding between 2 Chocolate Labradors, there is always the risk the puppies may not all be chocolate. What makes them different is that their shade of chocolate brown is a bit lighter and has a rusty red quality to it. In some cases, the shade is so light that they look almost earthy brown, like that of a fox. No matter how light or dark the shade of red is, it is important for it to be a solid color so that the Lab can be considered a true red variation. Like Chocolate Labradors, the red variety also has a reddish-brown-colored nose. Yellow Image from Paw. The shade of yellow varies from a rich, almost golden yellow to a light tinge of yellow that can easily be mistaken for white from a distance. The shade of yellow on Yellow Labradors is also nowhere near as intense as that on Goldies. This is different from really pale Yellow Labradors, which may sometimes have more pigmented fur on the ears, paws, and snout. Contrary to popular belief, White Labradors are actually not all suffering from albinism. They get their white coat from a rare and recessive leucistic gene. They get their grayish-blue shade from a dilution gene that waters down the intensity of what would have been a black coat. This dilution gene on Blue Labradors affects not only the fur but also other black-pigmented surfaces like the nose. At first glance, it may appear black, but on closer inspection, you will notice even its nose has the same slightly watered-down shade. They are not as common as the single solid-tone coat types. However, they are way more common than the other patterns that Labradors could possibly come in. The markings occur mainly with Black Labradors and Yellow Labradors. The white fur, in these cases, is distributed mainly to the neck, chest, belly area, and paws. They are best appreciated on Yellow Labradors or brown Chocolate Labradors due to the contrast. The stripes are most pronounced over the back, torso, and limbs. It is also common to find Brindle Labradors with a combination of patterns, in which case white markings are the most common pairing. Short Haired Image from YuMove According to the American Kennel Club breed standards for the Labrador Retriever , the short-haired variety is the only recognized and accepted coat type. Thus the fur is straight and coarse to the touch. The short-haired Labrador has a double coat with a softer undercoat that offers protection from simple injuries. Interestingly, short-haired Labradors tend to shed a bit more than their longer-haired companions and thus need more attentive coat care. However, their faces typically have shorter fur. Despite long-haired Labradors being so gorgeous, the trait is considered undesirable and is a result of recessive genes in the dog breed. The fact that it is recessive means that two long-haired Labs have to breed to produce puppies with the same trait. When comparing the three classic variations, the Chocolate Labrador is the rarest among the rest, Black Labrador and Yellow Labrador. This is because the chances for the required chocolate gene combination to manifest are much lower. In general, blue and white are two of the rare Labrador colors, whereas the merle pattern is considered to be very rare in purebred Labs. What Color Lab Sheds Least? There is no single Labrador color that sheds any more or less than the other varieties. The myth that Yellow Labradors shed more than black or chocolate ones is commonly busted from the fact that yellow fur strands are a lot more visible and easier to spot on clothes and furniture than the darker strands. The intelligence of a Labrador has nothing to do with its coat type, color, or pattern. However, there is this belief that Black Labs are the smartest. This is simply due to the fact that they are the most commonly found around the world. However, you can encounter several other Labrador colors thanks to genetic variation and different breeding practices. Below are six of the most common color varieties. Black Labrador Since four out of nine potential Labrador color gene variations result in a black coat, black Labs are the most common coat color in Labradors. So, the takeaway here is that black Labs are always the dominant coat color. People love black Labs for their soft, shiny coats. The black Labrador pose for a photoshoot! Yellow Labrador Yellow Labs come in as the second most common color after black Labradors. Unlike black Labs, which have an unmistakable, predictable color, yellow Labs can come in many different shades. The genetic makeup of yellow Labradors includes one-third of the possible Lab color combinations. The genetic codes include eeBB, eeBb, and eebb. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 3. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three primary Labrador colors. There are only two genes that will produce these dogs—EEbb and Eebb. As with yellow Labs, chocolate labs vary significantly in their coat color. Some chocolate labs have a light brown coat, others a medium brown, and some are even so dark that they appear mixed with black and brown. Aside from their genetic predisposition to an earlier death, these dogs can also suffer from the same issues as other Labs, including patellar luxation, osteochondritis dissecans, and canine hip dysplasia. So, if you have your heart set on buying a chocolate Lab, keep in mind that you may lose your best four-legged friend about 1. A chocolate Labrador Retriever having its coat brushed 4. They get their dark, reddish coat from the same gene as yellow Labs. But since yellow Lab genes can present a wide variation in yellow colors, it causes some puppies to enter the world with an almost red coat. Red Fox Labrador Retriever looks up. Silver Labrador You might have trouble recognizing a silver Lab as a Labrador when they walk by, given that this is such a distinct color deviating from the three primary colors. And, unfortunately for silver Labs, these dogs are a color variation from chocolate Labs. Another issue that silver Labs frequently face is color dilution alopecia. Alopecia is a condition when the immune system harms hair follicles, which leads to skin issues and hair loss. So, should you be interested in breeding your Labrador, please be responsible and never breed a silver Lab. Silver Labrador Retriever sitting in the forest. Like red fox Labradors, white Labs have the same genetic makeup as yellow Labs. Nevertheless, no one will mistake these dogs for pure white; they almost always retain a light cream-colored look, thanks to some yellow fur. Albinism is a life-threatening and rare genetic condition resulting from a lack of pigmentation. Albino Labs often die young and suffer from conditions like blindness and deafness. A white Labrador Retriever sits quietly. If you think mating two black Labradors is a guarantee for producing black Lab puppies, think again. Black is a dominant gene in Labs, but the color yellow always overrides black and chocolate. Instead, check out the chart below to see the puppy colors from mating different colored Lab parents. Parent Colors. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Updated: Nov 15, When it comes to coat color of Labrador puppies, there are three colors recognized by the American Kennel Club. Black Labs, yellow Labs, and brown Labs often called chocolate Labs are the three main varieties of Labrador retriever, however these puppies often exhibit different shades of black, yellow, and brown fur. So with so much variation, what causes a difference in color? Where it begins to get tricky is when we discuss the genetics of black labs and chocolate labs when compared to yellow lab. Allele: One of two or more versions of a gene. When it comes to the coats of Labrador puppies, fur color is determined by one of two different genes, as well as a variety of alleles. When it comes to black lab puppies and chocolate lab puppies, both varieties inherit their fur color from a single gene, known as "Tyrosinase-related protein 1. Here we have two dominant genes for black fur, obviously resulting in a black lab puppy. In a situation in which either parent passes on the dominant allele and the other passes on the recessive, the lab puppy will still have a black coat. When both parents pass on the recessive allele, only then do we see a chocolate lab puppy. So, Where Does Yellow Come from? Yellow Labrador puppies get their hair color from a gene entirely different from the gene that determines black or brown fur. Melanocortin 1 receptor MC1R is the gene responsible for yellow lab puppies, but can still result in fur coats of black and brown. As you may have deduced, the allele for yellow lab puppies is recessive. Both parents pass on dominant alleles for black or chocolate fur, resulting in a black or chocolate puppy. Only in a situation in which both parents pass on alleles coding for yellow fur is the TYRP1 gene overridden and yellow lab puppies are produced. What is also interesting about the creation of yellow lab puppies is the fact that while their fur coat is without black or brown pigment, their skin will still exhibit the same color pigment as that of black or chocolate lab puppies. Labrador Retrievers Care and Maintenance 1. Black Labrador Retrievers A Black labrador is the most popular coat among all variations. Their pure shiny black coating allows them to move swiftly and secretly in the field, making them a good hunting companion. Historically, black labs were purposely bred for hunting, and they used to euthanize other labradors. Fortunately, they are all in the past, and the strong hunting instincts of black labs are now being used and trained for security, search, and rescue jobs as a service dogs. Their dark, pure shiny black fur coats are what makes them so handsome and appealing to all dog lovers. However, not all black labrador retrievers are pure black. Some are mixed with white spots on their fur caused by a gene interruption from their ancestor, the St. Nevertheless, all black labrador retrievers are attractive in their smooth and sleek fur. Personality: Black labs are very reliable and focused as service dogs. The Dog Training Agencies normally pick their kind because of their intelligence, loyalty, and strong hunting skills. Aside from that, black labs are wonderful pets, too, because of their warm and comforting personality. Out of all breeds, black labs are the most affectionate and caring; and they love to show it to their owners. This is why most people admire black labradors; even though they look so strong and sturdy physically, they still have a soft and kind personality that captivates our hearts. Health Condition: Another good news about black labradors is that they are healthy dogs who live within the average lifespan of a labrador retriever years. Nonetheless, they are still prone to bacterial or viral infections, so an owner needs to watch them, make sure that they eat healthily, and receive the guidance and affection they need. Yellow Labrador Retrievers Yellow labrador retrievers are not the famous type of labrador. Due to this exposure, many labrador lovers have adored the unique color of yellow labs. Their color ranges from light brown to a lemon-like yellow. In this spectrum, a fawn labrador yellowish-brown color is included as well. This is a darker shade of yellow but not as dark as a red labrador. A cream-colored labrador is also considered to be part of yellow labrador retrievers. Yellow labs have the widest variety of color spectrum among all six labrador colors. They are recognized as therapy dogs for they love to show warm and comforting affection as well. Aside from that, yellow labs are highly trainable and equipped to work as service or search and rescue dogs as they are considered hardworking like black labradors. However, the lightness of their fur and extroverted attitude does not make them qualified for hunting. Health Condition: The yellow labrador retrievers are part of the healthy breeds as well. They live longer than other breed coats, and their health issues only occur in their old age. These health issues normally include dysplasia, blindness, or deafness. The weakening of their body is only a worry when they get old, but it is necessary to maintain their good health while still young. Chocolate Labrador Retrievers Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are the rarest one among the three major colors black, yellow, and chocolate. Most people adore this chocolate-like coating of their fur as they are shiny and attractive. Nonetheless, the color of chocolate labs varies in terms of intensity. Their color widely ranges from light brown to a combination of brown and black lab coats. Personality: As said before, chocolate labs are known for their energetic vibes. Their cuteness is derived from their uncontrollably cheerful and goofy personality. At times, they may be naughty, but they are just as caring and affectionate as any other labrador retriever. Health Condition: The only downside of chocolate labradors is that they are more prone to health issues and have shorter lifespans than other color types of labrador retrievers. Among their health concerns are skin irritation hot spots , ear inflammation, and sight defection. Based on research, their average lifetime is about a year and a half shorter than other labradors. They are known to be genetically associated with yellow labradors, just like red fox labs. Thus, an extremely light shade of yellow can be seen on their fur, and they tend to have the light brown or yellow shade of ears and paws. But the whiteness of their fur overpowers the yellowish shade under sunlight, which also gives the majestic aura of white labs. The fur around their ears and paws are normally white in the majority, but some parts have darker shades of light brown. Plus, they enjoy pleasing people with their charming personalities. Additionally, white labs are trusting and gullible hence, and it makes them poor security guard dogs. But owners love to cuddle and pamper them because of their innocent, delightful attitude. Health Condition: Just like chocolate labradors, white labs are prone to health problems too. Their white coloration may develop into albinism which is common for their kind. Some assume that red fox labs are mixed with golden retrievers — which is not true because the only similarity is the shade of color. Color Characteristic: Like white labradors, red labs are part of the color spectrum of yellow labs. While the white labs are in the lighter part of the yellow spectrum, the red labs are on the other end. Therefore, red fox labs are just darker coats of yellow labs perceived in the reddish version. The distinctiveness and vibrates of their rugged brownish red shade are what captures the heart of most dog lovers. Personality: Red labrador retrievers have a sociable personality as well. They can be easily trained to help other people, and they are natural when it comes to being playful. Just like chocolate labrador retrievers, red labs are active and outgoing! They are also considered gentle and lovable, which is a good characteristic for a family dog. Health Condition: In terms of health, red fox labradors are in good shapes, like yellow and black labs. They are not prone to any sickness or diseases, and their lifespans are in the normal timeline. For owners with red fox labs, just provide the proper care a normal dog needs to keep them healthy and prolong their happy life. Silver Labrador Retrievers The Silver Labrador Retrievers are the rarest among all the six recognized labrador coatings. Frequently, people mistake silver labs as being mixed with the Weimaraner breed. However, the silver labs are purebred and one of the six recognized labrador coat colors based on researchers. Color Characteristic: The color of silver labs ranges from light gray to silver-blue color. When they are exposed to sunlight, the silver shade is more vibrant and distinct. According to researchers, silver labs are in the same color spectrum as the chocolate labs. Silver Labradors are just like chocolate labradors but in diluted genes. Instead of being chocolate in color, their genes can potentially override all the other colors subtly and result in a stunning silver coating. Thus, silver labradors have recessive genotypes, which sets them apart from other labrador coatings. They are sociable, energetic, and adorable, yet soft and loyal at the same time. They are wonderful family pets and can bond with each family member. Training them for household activities is plausible as well because of their energetic personality. They love to run, swim, walk and play with their owners; thus, life is never too boring by having them around. Health Condition: The unique color of silver labradors makes them vulnerable in terms of health. They are prone to skin diseases and tend to develop skin itch or patchy fur due to the dilution of their genes, creating alopecia. Importance of Coat Color of Labrador Retrievers According to breeders and owners, each coat color is linked to the behavior and personality of labrador retrievers. Although this statement is not scientifically proven, the breeders have recorded the variety in the behavior of all the color coatings of labrador retrievers. It has been observed that: The calmest, most focused, and skillful are the Black Labrador Retrievers. Yellow, Silver, and White Labrador Retrievers are friendly and gentle to people and children. They love to be part of a family. The Fox Red and Chocolate Labrador Retrievers are known as the playful and most active kind of labrador. All types of labrador retrievers are loving and very affectionate. Thus, choosing the right one should be based on your personality. If you are sporty or athletic, a black lab is a perfect match for you because they can join you in training and exercises. A chocolate lab or a red fox lab will be a great companion if you are outgoing, playful, and competitive! And if you have a big family or starting a new one, the best choice is either a white lab, a yellow lab, or a silver lab. These labradors are soft and kind to everyone they meet, and they can easily create a bond with people. Labrador Retrievers Care and Maintenance All labrador retrievers are physically fit, strong, and healthy. Here is some important information that you need to know in nourishing and petting a Labrador Retriever: 1. Diet and Nutrition — it is vital to feed your labs with high-quality manufactured food or a home-cooked meal that does not contain poisonous ingredients. You must study what is the appropriate food for a dog and what food can harm them. There is no problem with shedding their double water-repellent coating because they occasionally shed on their own. Training and Exercise — training a lab puppy from 7 weeks to 4 months is essential so they would grow up with skills and a sociable personality. At an early age, enrolling them to puppy training classes would help in enhancing their obedience, socialization, and agility. Their fun-loving and positive personalities combined with their gentleness and willingness to please their owners makes them the perfect family pet. Statistically speaking, Black Labs are the most common of all Labrador color variations. This is due to how coat color is inherited in this breed. Without getting too far into a scientific explanation for this, there are nine different possible gene combinations for coat color. Four of these lead to a black coat, three to yellow, and only two to chocolate. Due to random chance, Black Labs make up nearly half of all Labradors. Yellow Labs often have a very light brown or tan colored coat that can appear yellowish. Chocolate Labrador Image Credit: skeeze, Pixabay The rarest of the three major Labrador colors, the Chocolate Lab is beautiful and adorable with a deep brown, chocolate-colored coat. Chocolate Labs are regarded as the most energetic and hardest to train, and while there is no research-based evidence to support this, Chocolate Labs are the only Labs not used as service dogs by the leading dog training organizations. This is possibly due to a higher energy level. Their absence from service dog institutions may also be due to the fact that Chocolate Labs experience more health problems and tend to have shorter lifespans than their Black and Yellow counterparts. On average, Chocolate Labs live about a year and a half shorter than other colored Labs. Simply put, they have the genetics of a Yellow Lab but present a darker coat that appears reddish. White Labs usually have very pale brown fur that can appear purely white, especially in the sun. Their fur normally has light brown or yellowish tinges around the ears and paws. Albino Labs do carry additional health problems such as deafness, blindness, and other eye issues. Austin, Shutterstock Silver Labs are stunning, regal, and sleek. Their light grey coat shines beautifully in the sun, and their appearance is as striking as it is adorable. These pups are similar to Red Labs in that they have the same genetics as one of the major three Lab colors. Silver Labs are really Chocolate Labs, even though they may look more like Blue Labs, but their coat is light or diluted, and the result is a silvery appearance. Like their chocolate siblings, Silver Labs, unfortunately, inherit some additional health issues and tend to live shorter lives than Black and Yellow Labradors. Defining Physical Characteristics What is it that makes this breed so recognizable? Labs are often stocky and athletic with a broad chest and a thick, wide skull. Labs have short, dense fur that is water-resistant. In fact, they were named after the Labrador Sea off of Newfoundland where they were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl. No matter where they go, Labs seem to bring joy and happiness with them. They are loyal, loving, and affectionate. What more could you ask for in a dog? Labs have short, dense fur that is prone to heavy shedding and matting, so you should plan to brush your Labrador at least two or three times a week to cut down on shedding and keep their fur looking sleek. Labradors of all coat colors should be bathed about once every other month with a dog-friendly shampoo. Bathing more often can eliminate those healthy skin oils we mentioned, so avoid giving your pup a bath more often unless they find their way into some mud. Final Thoughts Labs come in three main colors but can have lots of different coat shading that makes them appear unique and especially striking. See also:. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Original Labrador Retriever Color Black is the original, archetypal Labrador color, and genetically the most dominant. Chocolate and yellow puppies were frequently euthanized at birth. To understand that we have to look at the genetic difference between black and chocolate Labs. Labrador Retriever Color Genetics Both types get their color from a pigment called eumelanin. Labs with lots of eumelanin pigment in their coat are black. If they have a little less, they appear brown instead. We use letters to tell each place apart — a bit like giving each locus its own zip code! The B locus is home to a pair of genes called B genes. There are two types of B gene your Lab can get in their pair: One we call big B — it contains an instruction to make lots of eumelanin, and causes a black Labrador coat. And one we call little b — it contains an instruction for less eumelanin, and causes a brown or chocolate coat. Big B is a dominant gene, and little b is a recessive gene. Dominant genes to switch off, or override, recessive genes. So dog with BB genes will be black, because he has two genes for a black coat. And a Bb dog will be black too, because the dominant B genethe recessive b gene. Only a dog with a matching pair of bb genes will express the instruction for less eumelanin in their coat, and be brown. Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog with two copies of the b gene will actually look brown. But the dominance of the black color enabled our chocolate friends to remain hidden and rare with the breed, for many decades. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. In fact, it would take two black Labs both carrying the little b gene to produce chocolate puppies. Like this: Statistically, one quarter of their litter would be chocolate colored. And of course, some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. These genes are located at the E locus. And — you guessed it — we call them E genes. Just like B genes there are two versions of the E gene, big E and little e. Big E is the dominant gene. It does not interfere with the B genes. Little e is the recessive gene. It has the potential to mask the B genes that would otherwise give us black or brown coats. And the result is a yellow dog. How Yellow Overrides Black and Chocolate Only the little e gene can mask the instructions for black or chocolate fur. There are three possible combinations of E gene that a dog can inherit. It could have two dominant genes EE two masking genes ee or one of each Ee. Only the middle of these three dogs will be yellow. Nine Different Possible Labrador Genotypes! Every Labrador has a combination of B and E genes — called their genotype. There are nine different possible genotypes. Here they are in full: Can you see why each combination of genes turns out the way it does? Because as you can see, the second dog down the list may look black but he could throw brown puppies, and the fourth dog down the list may look black, but he could throw yellow puppies. The fifth dog down the list is also black but he could throw yellow and brown puppies. Puppy colors are easier to predict when both parents owe their appearance to the recessive genes b or e. Mating Two Yellow Labradors Two yellow Labradors mated together will never throw brown or black puppies. All their offspring will be yellow. This is because yellow dogs do not possess the big E gene which is needed to switch off the masking effect. Mating Two Chocolate Labradors Two brown Labs mated together will never throw black puppies because brown dogs do not have the big B gene. But two chocolate Labs can produce yellow puppies, if each of the parents carries the little e gene — like this: In the mixed litter, statistically one of half of the puppies will be chocolate and one half yellow. Depending on their genotype, two black Labradors can indeed have yellow or chocolate puppies. Remember from our grid above that there are four different possible genotypes for a black Labrador. The genotype refers to the genetic code that the dog carries. And the four different possible black genotypes down the side to represent the father. Inside the grid are the puppies that could be born from each combination. If and only if, both parents carry a little e gene, then some of the puppies may be yellow. Remember that your puppy needs two little e genes one from each parent in order to be yellow. If only one of two black dogs carries the little e gene, all their puppies will be black. Yes it is, check out the bottom right hand square in the diagram above! Notice that it can only happen if both parents dogs have this genotype: EeBb. In other words, they both carry a little e and a little b. This is good example of how complicated, and unexpected, Labrador colors can be. There are six different possibilities for litter color combinations depending on the genotype of the parents. You can even get a litter of all black puppies from a chocolate mother and a yellow father or vice versa! Here are the color possibilities: yellow, black, and chocolate puppies yellow and black puppies. Labrador Colors 1. Black Labrador Most black Labs are entirely black. But, some have one or two white spots on their fur. This interruption in their solid black coat is due to genetic traces left from their late ancestor, the St. The black Labrador Retriever was historically the most common coat color. Even today, nearly half of all Labs are black! When Retrievers were first bred, black coated dogs were the only pups deemed acceptable. Their popularity was driven by two reasons: Black is the favorite coat color for hunting. Four out of nine gene combinations result in a black coat. Sadly, until the 20th century, all other Lab colors would be euthanized shortly after birth. They were not valued the same way black Labradors were. Black Labradors were perfect for their original purpose, hunting. Their dark coat color helped them blend in and move stealthily while hunting or participating in field trials. These Labs tend to have the strongest hunting instincts as their black coats were historically bred for hunting. Even to this day, they are focused, diligent workers. These shiny, sleek dogs are not only beloved in the field, but they also make wonderful pets. Many owners regard black Labs as the calmest and most affectionate of all Lab colors. However, there is no scientific evidence to back up this claim. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three major Lab colors. These dogs are rarely used for hunting or working, but are champions in the show ring! Their color stuns judges and earns high marks in conformation shows. The shade of brown that chocolate Labradors can come in varies. Some are a rich chocolate while others are a dark brown color known as liver. Some even have a beautiful red hue within their brown fur! The chocolate color exists on a spectrum and can vary greatly due to genetics. Some of these assumptions have become widely accepted in the Labrador community. Chocolate Labs are regarded as the most rambunctious with a bit too much energy for their bodies! These pups are spunky and often hard to train, which may explain why they are not used as service dogs. Even if these Labs are a bit energetic and naughty at times, they are just as beloved due to their affectionate nature and goofy personality. The unfortunate truth about chocolate Labradors is that they often suffer from more health problems than other types of Labs. Some of these health concerns are minor and include hot spots skin irritation and ear inflammation. However, some are more serious and can shorten their lifespan. They often live a year and a half less than the other Labradors. Yellow Labrador Yellow Labradors may not be the most popular Labrador Retriever color, but they are the most beloved. Many owners claim that yellow Labs are the friendliest and most outgoing. Their outstanding reputation is reinforced by their heavy presence in daily life! Yellow Labs are often seen in movies such as the adorable Lab who played Marley in Marley and Me or the sweetheart who acted as Old Yeller. The media have also boosted their popularity as has their recognition as common service, search and rescue, and therapy dogs. Similar to chocolate, the yellow coat color exists on a spectrum. Some yellow Labs are a light brown or tan, others are yellow like a lemon, and then there are cream-colored Labs. There are also fawn Labradors. Fawn Labs are darker, but are not quite red. The yellow Lab may be the Labrador Retriever with the most variation in its coat color! Yellow Labs are just as hard-working as black Labs, although they are not as commonly used for hunting. They are very similar to black Labs and are just as highly trainable, affectionate, and hard-working. Silver Labrador Silver Labradors are by far the rarest of all colors. These dogs are a light gray to blue color that looks silver in the sunlight. These Labradors are often mistaken for Weimaraner mixes because of their silver coat. Silver Labs actually have the same genetics as any type of Lab, despite looking very different. They are just as smart, fun, and loving as any other Retriever. They have a dilute gene that overrides the designated chocolate coat color. Rather than being chocolate, these dogs have a silver or blue coat color. This same coat color dilution can occur in yellow Labs and in black Labs. Diluted yellow Labs are known as champagne and diluted black Labs are known as charcoal. However, Silver is the most unique. Not many silver Labs exist due to the recessive nature of the dilute gene. Silver Labs are undoubtedly stunning, but they have a higher potential of developing health issues. They often develop color dilution alopecia which presents as itchy skin or patchy fur. Fox Red Labradors have the same genetics as a yellow Lab, but just have a deep yellow or brown hue to their coat. This deep brown looks rusty red and makes them look just like a fox. Labrador Retriever fans adore fox red Labs because of their friendly personalities. They have lovingly nicknamed these dogs Ruby Labradors. Clifford, the beloved big red dog, is even based off a fox red Labrador. The red color gives them a rugged look that many owners love! However, this love does not extend to the American Kennel Club. The American Kennel Club does not recognize fox reds as a unique color and registers these Labrador Retrievers as yellow labs. Judges often view this dark pigmentation as a serious fault, so it is unlikely that a fox red Lab would ever win a conformation show. Some people are highly suspicious of the fox red color. They often argue that fox reds are not purebred and that they are mixed with Golden Retrievers. This is not true. It is all the beauty of a Golden Retriever without the high maintenance and long coat that Goldens are known for. White Labrador White Labradors are just a variation of the yellow Lab. They have the same genetics as a yellow Lab, they just happen to be much paler. White Labs are the lightest shade of yellow possible. This color exists on the opposite end of the spectrum than fox red Labs do. The shade of their fur is typically a pale yellow that looks white in the sunlight. They may also have brown or yellow ears and paws that are darker than the rest of their coat. Their white fur gives them an aura of royalty. Just like any yellow Labrador, white Labs are regarded as kind dogs who love everyone they meet. They make horrible guard dogs as they make friends with everyone and are quick to trust every stranger they meet! They are often pampered and spoiled beyond belief. There are no known health issues associated with this color. Most white labs are healthy because they are just a pale yellow, not true white. Albino Labradors are rarer and also sensitive to bright sunlight. Merle labs may suffer from deafness, blindness, and shortened lifespans. Discussing Labrador Retriever colors can be controversial. Are silver and red Labs purebred? Do personality traits differ between different colored Labs? Should silver, red, and white have their own color category? The answers to these questions are not simple. They say that behavior is determined by genetics, socialization, training, and health. In their opinion coat color is just cosmetic. On the other hand, there are owners and breeders who argue that coat color affects the personality of a Lab. These owners and breeders have lived and interacted with Labs of all colors. In their opinion coat color is linked to characteristic personality traits. These Lab lovers have agreed that: Black Labs are the calmest and most skilled at hunting. Yellow Labs are the friendliest and best with people and children. Chocolate Labs are the rowdiest, most energetic, and difficult to train. On the side of science, color does not affect the behavior of a Labrador Retriever. However, breeders and owners have recorded the behavior traits associated with each coat color. It is up to you whether to decide if color matters for Labrador Retrievers or not! Which Is The Rarest Color? Silver is the rarest Lab color. Silver is rare because it can only come from a unique genetic makeup. The dilution gene needed to produce this silver hue is a recessive gene and is often masked by the genes for a chocolate coat. If you ever happen to see one of these silver beauties, take the time to really admire them as you may never see another one again! Which Color Is The Best? This is definitely an opinion question that has no right answer! Each color of Labrador suits a specific type of owner: Athletic, hunting owners will want a black Lab. Yellow Lab owners claim that their dogs are the best due to their friendly personalities. Chocolate Labs win the most prizes in conformation shows. Silver Labs are the rarest, to complicate the argument even more. It is up to each owner to decide which color they love the best. An argument can be made for each Labrador color as to why that color is the best. Among Labrador owners it is widely accepted that black Labs are the calmest. This could be a result of their hard-working, hunting instincts which cause them to be much more focused and level-headed. Chocolate Labs who parade around show rings are often the most rambunctious. If you ask the experts, you will get the answer that coat color has no effect on Labrador behavior. However, if you read various Labrador Retriever websites and forums, or talk to Lab owners, you may hear a different story. Whether you decide to believe this claim is up to you! There is no scientific evidence to back the claim up that black Labs are the calmest Labradors. Summary Each color of Labrador Retriever is beautiful and unique in its own way. Silver Labs are rare, black Labs are sleek and elegant, yellow Labs have an aura of kindness, white Labs are elegant, red Labs are devoted to their work, and chocolate Labs are gorgeous and show ready! Labrador coat colors are the perfect example that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. Want to learn more about Labs? Read: English vs. American Labrador: Top 10 Differences. Which coat color is your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments below! She is a passionate dog lover and was raised with an affectionate, calm Yellow Lab Golden Retriever mix that fostered her love for her canine companions. Kelsie is actively involved with multiple humane societies and has cared for the dogs of over 45 different families. You May Also Like.

Temperament: Jolly, smart and affectionate. Bichon Poodle Mix Appearance There is no true breed standard for this dog as they are a mix. However with luck, it will have the best features of both the Bichon and the Poodle. These merry souls have dark gentle eyes, a black button nose and a friendly face that is always smiling. They have small bodies with short, stubby legs. Height and Weight These small dogs stand between inches tall. Weight should range from pounds, with Teacup Bichon Poodles weighing pounds. There is no major difference in size between males and females. Breed Colors and Coat Bichon Poodles are usually brown, white or tan colored. However, they can occur in cream or even ginger colors. Darker colored ones can have white markings on their undersides. The Bichon Poo has a medium length, curly single coat. They need plenty of care and grooming to keep looking clean and neat. This pooch hardly sheds at all and does not produce a lot of dander. Now those with dog allergies can have a furry friend too. Despite their low shed frequency they must be brushed daily to keep their fur from becoming matted. They will also need a haircut every month or two. Smaller dogs usually have smaller litter sizes — this dog can have a litter of up to 5 puppies. They are one of the best possible first puppies for children of all ages, and a great opportunity to teach kids about how to care for a dog. Since its parent breeds are so highly intelligent, it excels at brain games and learning tricks. The word Bichon refers to a variety of different toy dogs , including the more well-known Maltese. They are are social butterflies that love to make new friends. Their natural friendliness makes them one of the easier breeds to socialize. Bichon Poos are very smart and playful and love games that keep their minds working. They will love a trip to the park or a run around the yard. Their high intelligence means that they learn quickly, but also means that they are easily bored. They can be very annoying when under-stimulated. Unfortunately this breed can be loud and yappy. They may yap or whine if they are bored, and may bark excitably when they see a new friend. These dogs will actively engage their owners by bringing them their favorite toys or showing off their favorite new tricks. Every owner of any age and skill level can take care of one. All in all they are natural people dogs who want nothing more than to keep you amused and happy. This breed is one of the very best family dogs around. Caring for a Bichon Poodle A Bichon Frise Poodle mix is easy to care for which makes them great for first time owners. They do not need much beyond the basics that any dog needs. Keeping them clean and well groomed is the most important and intensive part of their care. Exercise Requirements This mix has sudden energy bursts. They will want to be on their feet one moment and all curled up the next. You can take them on up to 3 short 10 minute walks a day. A walk through the dog park or around the yard is just fine for distance. They can be trained to walk off leash but be sure to watch them carefully. In addition to their walks they should have at least 10 minutes of off leash play. They enjoy all of the classic doggie games, including fetch and Frisbee. Number of Walks Per Day: 3. Grooming and Shedding Grooming is the most demanding aspect of caring for this breed. Without regular grooming their fur will become a tangled mess. Keeping their fur neat and trimmed will be entirely up to you. They will need monthly trips to a professional groomer in addition to their daily brushing. They will also need shampooing and a haircut at least every 2 months. Small dog breeds are especially prone to dental health problems. Feeding and Diet Many owners will make the mistake of feeding this small dog the same kind of food as a larger and more active breed. These dogs have different caloric needs for their small bodies. Bichon Poodles should be given kibble made specifically for small and toy breeds. You can give them up to 3 meals a day, at a half-cup of kibble per meal. Foods for toy dog breeds contain less fat and carbs than those for larger dogs. However, they are much more calorie dense. This makes eating very painful, and it can even lead to heart disease. Progressive retinal atrophy is an eye problem inherited from both parent breeds. It usually occurs when the dog reaches middle age. If we want to learn anything about their offspring, we must review certain genetic facts and statistics beforehand. This is the dog that carries it. The Bichon Frise looks like a vanilla cupcake or cream puff with a height of 9 — 12 inches 23 — 30 cm and a weight of 6. It has an affectionate, playful, and cheerful temperament, with a slice of feistiness and sensitivity on the side. The primary health concerns to look out for are epilepsy, White Shaker Syndrome which causes the dog to shake uncontrollably , and dyskinesia — a type of movement disorder. But the vet will be able to make a proper diagnosis. A healthy Bichon Frise has a life expectancy of 12 — 15 years. Brief Overview Of The Poodle Poodles of all sizes toy , mini, and standard have two universal crowd-pleasing traits. The height and weight of a Poodle can be broken down into three categories. Across the mini, toy, and standard growth charts, the height fluctuates between 9 — 24 inches 21 — 61 cm. The weight between 6 — 60 pounds 3 — 27 kg. All sizes are intelligent, active, and faithful, and live between 12 years. Like the Bichon Frise, the Poodle may suffer from epilepsy at some point in its life. It may also experience the following health issues. The Poodle and the Bichon Frise have identical lifespans, so their offspring are predicted to live between 12 — 15 years as well. A full-grown Bichon Poodle should be about 9 to 15 inches cm tall at the withers with a weight of 6 — 17 pounds 3 — 8 kg. The Bichpoo can also be found in cream, black, blue, and apricot. There are certain arguments in life that will never be settled. Blonde vs. When it comes to dogs, there is no definitive, black and white answer. There will always be at least one exception. Although, the point of cross-breeding is to eliminate certain health concerns. So, what predictions can we make about hybrid dogs? The first generation of the Bichon Poodle Mix is healthier than its parent breeds. The second generation is not as healthy as the first, and any issues that arise in round two will most likely carry on in round three and so forth. With alert and active parents, the Poochon will be no different. This mix needs daily exercise preferably outside for at least 30 minutes. It has a lot of energy to burn. Keep in mind that mental and physical stimulation are different, and the Bichon Poodle Mix needs both. A bored Bichpoo will bark and whine or turn your shoes into a chew toy of its own with your permission. OK, we get it. The Bichpoo is smart, but can it be taught to play dead? Or roll over? Or give a high-5? And Yes. This breed is capable of learning a solid amount of tricks. Just make sure to have plenty of treats on-hand for positive reinforcement. Watch how well this Bichpoo gives its owner a high-5 and pay attention to how she rewards her dog! Every breed comes with at least one trait we wish we could alter. This comes from the Poodle side. If your Bichon Poodle Mix is not socialized at an early age, it can develop separation anxiety when left alone for hours. The Bichpoo can show moments of mild aggression around unfamiliar dogs. The Bichon Poodle is a loving companion for adults, children, and strangers, which makes it one of the best family dogs. Haircuts every two months are a necessity to keep its coat tame. If that sounds like too much responsibility or money, you can shave your Bichpoo in the summertime. Its coat causes minimal shedding, which makes it a good option for owners with allergies or who want a clean house. The last part of grooming requires occasional teeth brushing to keep mouth infections at bay. Bichon Poodle owner Sandy Rothra recommends feeding your mix canned dog food because it contains a higher percentage of meat protein. This counts for all dog breeds: if your pup gets sick with a kidney or heart issue, you will need to change its diet. You should never feed any dog chocolate, onions, grapes, and raisins. The difference between these variants lies in their size, when full-grown. While the former weighs about 6 to 12 pounds, the weight of the latter is 13 to 18 pounds. By height, they stand between 9 and 14 inches. Temperament Respectively, both the cheerful, cuddly, loving personality and the playful, intelligent and charismatic characteristics of the Bichon Frise and the Poodle have been inherited by this Poodle Bichon mix. Care Exercise The moderately active, very small bichon poo do not need vigorous exercise, but taking them to a regular walk and allowing them to play, especially being crazy about reflections in the mirror, is enough. But increase the session-time if your pet lives mostly indoors. Grooming Although not much maintenance is necessary for their very little hair loss, but their hair being long and curly gets entangled easily, hence they need regular brushing to retain a smooth coat, just like a haircut is, if it is too long, but by experienced hands approximately every 6 to 8 weeks. Bathe them if only needed, but do keep an eye for ear infections and brush their teeth few times weekly to avoid tooth decay. Health Problems As a cross, bichon poo does not have much health issues, except genetic disorders and common dog diseases like ear problems and infections, PRA, epilepsy, diabetes, cataracts, allergies and other skin disorders. Training Inheriting the intelligence of the Poodle, the Bichon Poodle puppies would be difficult to housetrain. You should also impart socialization and obedience training to your pets without being harsh and intolerant. In order to make the learning process interesting and fulfilling, you can incorporate positive reinforcement tricks. Feeding Do not feed your dog with chocolate, grapes, raisins or onions. Feed them with the correct proportions of high-quality protein, carbohydrates, vegetables and fats. They also need vitamins, calcium and other minerals in their diet chart. Eliminate harmful additives or preservatives. Homemade dog foods that are cooked can contain brown rice, chicken or other types of red meats and a variety of green, yellow and orange vegetables. If you want to include raw foods, give your bichon poo skinless chicken or other lean meats, green and orange vegetables and bones as a part of their meals. Dry dog food is also readily available in the market, but that has to be high-quality, meant for small-size, moderately active dogs. Interesting Facts Bichon Poos are tolerant with other animals. They make a good companion dog and love to be around its owner and his family. Bichpoos possess double coat. The inner coat is soft and silky but the outer coat is bigger and curly. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. Poochons have high energy and are prone to weight gain. Make sure your dog gets frequent walks and play sessions through out the day. If you keep a hanky near by to wipe their eyes when they get moist, it can help minimize the tear stains that their breed is prone to getting. Multiple dogs sometimes clean each others eyes, but dogs typically do not clean their own eyes. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking loudly against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as small breeds are prone to dental issues. Poochon Feeding An ideal Poochon diet should be formulated for a small breed with moderate to high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. The main colors of Poochons are cream, tan, and apricot. Usually their coats are solid, and sometimes they have blend of colors. Less common colors are black or grey. Both parent breeds are high maintenance when it comes to grooming, and you can expect the same from the Poochon. These pups will most likely require daily brushing along with shampooing every few weeks with a mild product and monthly grooming. Poochons are prone to tear stains. If you decide to adopt a Poochon, keep a cloth tissue on hand to dab their eyes regularly. It helps manage the tear staining quite a bit. Poochon Children And Other Pets Poochons adore kids and families and the endless noise and commotion that comes with them. However, because the Poochon is a small dog, they can be easily injured by overly excited children. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. The Poochon enjoys the company of other dogs, as long as they receive their fair share of attention from their owner. Since Poochons have a social nature, a family with lots of animals could be ideal. For an active, social person, the Poochon could be your perfect co-pilot for life. Poochon Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for Poochons because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try Poodle or Bichon Frise breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. What Is the History of Bichon Poodles? In order to understand what a poochon might be like, we need to know more about the history of the bichon frise and the poodle. The bichon frise hails from Tenerife in the Canary Islands and was popular among the nobility of France, Spain, and Italy from about the 13th century onward. After the French Revolution in , these little dogs lost their noble benefactors. They ended up performing tricks, first as street performers, then in circuses. Just like bichon frises, poodles found popularity amongst French nobility and even spent some time in European circuses. However, their roots have nothing to do with luxury or the performing arts. Instead, poodles were duck hunters that originated in Germany. Even today, standard poodles are used for hunting fowl. As for the bichon poodle, this mix cropped up around the late s in Australia. It is believed that breeders were attempting to create an active but affectionate pet that would make a wonderful companion for families with kids. Though poodles come in three sizes, only miniature and toy poodles are typically chosen to mate with bichon frises. Poochons are small dogs with long curly hair often clipped short , fluffy tails, and cute button noses. They can come in various colors, but some of the most popular are apricot, cream, white, and red. Most bichpoos will be toy to miniature sized. What Size Is a Bichon Poodle? Bichon poodles are 9 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 6 and 17 pounds on average. Bichpoos with a toy poodle parent are more likely to be on the smaller side of this scale, whereas those with a miniature poodle parent may be on the larger end of this range. Both bichon frises and poodles have hair that is curly and grows long. Therefore, you can expect the same from a bichon poodle mix. Bichon poodles are happy-go-lucky dogs that see everyone as their friend. They make lovely family pets as they are great with children and enjoy activity and play. Bichpoos are very affectionate with their families and enjoy cuddling and being petted. Are Bichon Poodles Affectionate? Bichon frises were bred to be companion dogs, and poodles are known to be affectionate toward their families. Therefore, you can expect a mix of the two to be an absolutely loving dog. If you want a dog you can cuddle with; there is a high chance that a bichpoo will want to cuddle with you, too. They are wonderful little lapdogs who welcome physical touch. Bichon poodles are also quite friendly toward strangers. In fact, they tend to view everyone as friends and are quick to warm up to new people. This mixed breed is both gentle and playful. That said, it is important to always supervise kids and dogs. Because the bichon poodle is diminutive, children must be taught how to safely handle and respect this breed so as not to cause injury. While bichon frises have a low prey drive, the same cannot be said of the poodle, who was originally bred for hunting. So it would not be a total surprise should they enjoy chasing squirrels in the yard. If you have small animals like rabbits, guinea pigs, or the like, be aware of the possibility that a bichpoo may see them as prey. Socializing a bichon poodle mix puppy with small animals can help, but it is recommended that you exercise caution if you decide to keep small pets in a home with a bichpoo. Though small animals may be out, other dogs are not. Bichon poodles tend to be quite friendly toward fellow dogs. Are Bichon Poodles Aggressive? Though it is possible for any dog of any breed to become aggressive, this is definitely not the norm for the bichon poodle. This breed is generally very friendly and happy-go-lucky toward everyone they meet. Fear can be a cause of aggression. Do Bichon Poodles Bark a Lot? Bichon poodles are not known for being quiet. How much a dog barks will vary by individual, but it is not uncommon for bichpoos to bark a lot. This may not make them the best option if you live in an apartment with noise restrictions. However, if you are dedicated to putting in the effort, you can teach them to bark less. This training can work especially well if you start it during puppyhood, but training at any age can still be effective. Are Bichon Poodles Intelligent? Bichon Poodles are very smart little dogs. Poodles themselves are considered one of the smartest dog breeds, and we know that bichons frises are more than capable of learning complex tricks — after all, they did spend time in the circus! So a dog born of these two intelligent breeds is likely to be a smarty-pants. Are Bichon Poodles Easy to Train? Training is a joy when you have an intelligent dog that enjoys learning. This is definitely true of the bichon poodle. These little dogs are eager to please as they love receiving praise and treats from their favorite people. Because they are smart, they can also learn a plethora of interesting cues, including complicated tricks. We always recommend that dog owners take their pups to a training class of some sort because it keeps you on task with your training, allows you to ask questions, provides socialization, and offers a new or distracting environment for your dog to learn in. However, the bichon poodle is relatively easy to train, so hiring a professional trainer, while helpful, is not necessary. Similarly, you do not need to be an experienced trainer to successfully teach your bichon poodle new skills. Do your research, be clear and consistent, and use positive reinforcement techniques. Respect your dog and remember that training should be fun, and your bichpoo will be trained before you know it. Are Bichon Poodles Energetic? The bichon poodle is considered a high-energy breed, which is no surprise since one of their parents, the poodle, was originally bred for hunting. You should definitely walk a poochon daily as well as engage in play. Bichon poodles will enjoy a romp around a yard but are also happy to play indoors. Most bichon poodles are satisfied with about an hour of exercise per day. If your poochon seems bored, then you may need to provide even more exercise. Aside from their barking habits, bichon poodles can be a great option for apartment living. They can easily get their exercise via walks or even indoor games on rainy days. Are Bichon Poodles Good Watchdogs? A bichon poodle will alert you to the presence of someone at the door or anything else they find out of place. For this reason, they can be considered good watchdogs. However, they are very friendly toward strangers and, of course, are quite small, so they cannot offer you much more than a four-legged alarm system. Bichon poodles are too small to fit every service niche for instance, they could not guide the blind , but they can make for talented service dogs in general. Their loving, affectionate nature would also make them a great option for someone who is looking to get an emotional support animal. For those who want to bring joy to others, a bichon poodle would likely excel as a therapy dog because they tend to be quite friendly and do well with children and adults. How to Care for a Bichon Poodle The bichon poodle usually requires visits to a groomer every four to six weeks to have their coat clipped. Otherwise, they require brushing at least weekly and should have their ears checked for infection regularly. Perhaps the most vital care for a bichon poodle is dental care. You must brush their teeth every single day. This is because the bichon poodle is predisposed to periodontal disease, and it is not uncommon for this breed to lose teeth because of it. This is because the bacteria growing in an unhealthy mouth can spread, often leading to systemic issues in the heart, kidneys, or liver. As their hair grows back out, you should brush even more frequently to prevent matting. Mats make it difficult for groomers to give the dog a neat clip, and severe matting is painful. Bathing once a month is enough for a poochon, but you can also choose to bathe as needed. Do Bichon Poodles Shed? The bichon poodle mix is a minimal shedder. This is because their hair grows long and continuously. This cycle of growth can take years, which is why the breed is considered low shedding and hypoallergenic. What Should a Bichon Poodle Eat? Bichon poodles should eat the highest quality small breed dog food you can afford. The best dog foods meet AAFCO guidelines, are formulated by a veterinary nutritionist, and undergo feeding trials. To determine how much to feed your bichon poodle, check the guidelines on your preferred dog food. Bichon poodles are at risk for all the same diseases for which poodles and bichon frises are at risk. Though these health risks may seem scary, there are ways to increase your chances of getting a healthy pup who will live a long, happy life. The best option is to get your bichon poodle puppy from a responsible breeder who health tests their dogs. These health tests ensure that the parent dogs do not have any identifiable diseases that could be passed on to the offspring. Responsible breeders not only health test their dogs but are also more than willing to share the results with potential adopters. Poodles live between 10 and 18 years whereas bichon frises live about 14 to 15 years. Therefore, you can expect a bichpoo to have a similar lifespan. Are Bichon Poodles Expensive? Your recurring monthly expenses for a bichpoo will mostly consist of grooming and food. How to Find a Bichon Poodle Breeder? What are your credentials? You should learn about how long the breeder has been in business and how familiar they are with bichon poodles. Have the parent animals undergone health testing? Ask to see these tests. Can I see where the dogs are kept? Can I meet the parent? How do you socialize your puppies? Socialization is important for puppies to become friendly and confident. Are the puppies up-to-date on vaccinations? Do you offer a health guarantee with a contract? Some breeders guarantee the health of their puppies: should your puppy come down with a serious illness early on, the breeder may offer to reimburse the purchase price of the dog or even take the puppy back. This will also help you avoid irresponsible breeders. What do you require of potential adopters? Many breeders want to make sure their puppies are going to homes where they will be treated well and kept for life. Therefore, breeders may ask a number of questions about you, your situation, and your experience as a dog owner. Can You Adopt a Bichon Poodle? These shelters typically rescue mixes of their designated breeds. You should also keep an eye on small breed rescues. Are Bichon Poodles Purebred? Bichon poodles are not purebred. Rather, they are the offspring of two purebred dogs: the poodle and the bichon frise. Some bichon poodles may also have two bichon poodle parents. Can You Show Bichon Poodles? Unfortunately, only purebred dogs are allowed to be shown. This is partly because purebreds have a set standard for how each breed should look and be proportioned. No such standard exists for mixed breeds like the bichon poodle, so they cannot participate in dog shows. The bichon poodle would make a great first dog for a new dog owner. The bichon poodle is a wonderful dog with many desirable traits. The Bichon poodle may be right for you if: You want a dog you can cuddle with. You have children and want a family dog. You want a dog that has low-maintenance grooming needs. It is considered a designer dog breed. The mix originated in Australia and started appearing in the late s. The goal was to breed a low or non-shedding dog that was sturdy and active with a temperament for families with children. The Bich-Poo is charming, affectionate, highly intelligent, and eager to please. They tend to get along well with other pets and with children, which makes them a great fit for families. Bich-Poos are also alert watchdogs. They can be prone to excessive barking, but training and socialization as a puppy can curb this tendency. Although they will alert you as a watchdog, they are more interested in making friends, so will not make a good guard dog. Bich-Poos are highly adaptable. They do well in apartments or larger homes as long as they get enough exercise and fit right in with families with children, other pets, or both. They do well in most climates and, as with most dog breeds, caution should be taken with extreme heat or cold. With this first generation cross, many of the health issues associated with the parent breeds are often not a concern. However, there is always the potential for inherited issues. Some of the potential breed-related health concerns are allergies, patella luxation, and progressive retinal atrophy. Because they are a small dog breed, they are also prone to breaks and fractures if dropped. This designer dog breed tends to be highly intelligent. That, paired with their eagerness to please their owner, makes them quick learners and fairly easy to train. They tend to be a good fit for owners of any experience level. Novice owners may want to enroll in obedience and training classes to ensure training and socialization is going as it should. A professional trainer can also help you put a plan in place to eliminate any potential issues with separation anxiety or the nipping that can become a common fear or anxiety response in small dogs. A Bich-Poo will often have a soft and curly coat. If their coat takes on Poodle properties, then it will be low-shedding and hypoallergenic. Common coat colors are typically light, like white or apricot, but can appear in other colors like tan, brown, black, or gray. Professional grooming every six to eight weeks is also a good idea for a healthy coat. You will also want to trim their nails monthly and clean their eyes and ears regularly. Although small, these dogs are robust and energetic. They tend to have bouts of high energy and require regular exercise throughout the day. Although they are active dogs, moderate levels of exercise will be enough to tire them out. Regular exercise, like daily walks and active playtime, will help immensely when your pup gets a sudden spike of energy and starts racing. Some of their energy bursts can seem endless, but, due to their smaller size, they do tend to tire quickly, so these bouts of energy will likely be on the shorter side. After that, your Bich-Poo will likely be ready for a nap and some cuddles. Keeping your dog well-exercised and engaged is key. A bored dog is one that can become restless and start to whine, chew, or bark. This designer dog breed usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and can weigh between pounds. A Bichpoo will generally live between years. Featured Bich-poo Article.

They tend to sleep for long periods, making many people wonder if their Golden retriever puppy is healthy. So, how much sleep does a Golden Retriever puppy need? In general, Golden Retriever puppies need to sleep between 15 and 20 hours each day. A Golden puppy is a ball of energy when awake, and needs several hours of sleep after each play session. A young Golden retriever puppy is growing rapidly, and needs all that sleep to grow and build their muscles. Be sure to keep reading if you have a young Golden retriever pup at home! This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! How Much Sleep Your Golden Retriever Puppy Needs Adult Golden retrievers tend to spend more time asleep up to 12 hours a day than many other dog breeds because they are big dogs and expend a lot of energy. You can expect your Golden retriever puppy to sleep much more than that! It is not uncommon for a new Golden puppy to sleep between 18 and 20 hours each day. When your new puppy is awake, it is burning a lot of energy, as they are always on the move! They are also growing a lot during this time, which requires plenty of sleep. Golden Retriever Puppies: Factors That Impact Sleep In addition to needing sleep to grow, there are several other factors that could cause your Golden retriever puppy to want to take naps more often, such as: The weather: Hot weather can make dogs feel fatigued. You can help keep your puppy cool by taking them on morning walks when the sun is low. Also, you can keep your Golden cool by letting them play in the water. Golden retrievers love water and can even learn to swim if introduced to it at a young age. And Is It Safe? Their diet: Problems with their diet can also cause puppies to feel extra sleepy, a puppy needs a high quality puppy food like Blue Buffalo Natural Puppy Amazon to provide plenty of energy throughout the day. Poor quality foods are full of ingredients that will sap your pups energy as they try to digest it. Sickness: If your puppy is sick, he or she may start to sleep even more. Keep an eye out for other symptoms, such as vomiting. They are bored: An older puppy 6 months to a year might be taking naps if there is nothing else for it to do. Make sure that you play with them often and get them to exercise every day. Try to have plenty of puppy toys around the house to keep them engaged. Overall, it is normal for a golden retriever puppy to sleep a lot as they are growing rapidly, and need sleep to grow and develop. The above factors could also be causing them to take more naps, which is normal. You can try changing their food and getting them onto a better sleep schedule if you are concerned they are sleeping too much. Even if your young puppy is sleeping for 20 hours a day, they are likely healthy. How To Put Your Golden Retriever Puppy on a Sleep Schedule If your Golden retriever puppy is waking up during the night or being disruptive when they should be asleep, you will need to put them on a sleep schedule. Like human babies, puppies have to learn to sleep through the night. Having a consistent routine can help your puppy get more restful sleep, which will keep them healthy and happy! Feel free to make any changes that will fit your lifestyle better. Just remember that consistency is the key. Weather Health All these factors can contribute to how much your Golden Retriever puppy sleeps, either increasing or decreasing the amount of sleep. Knowing which factors affect sleep is important because your Golden Retriever puppy must get enough sleep to grow and develop normally. So, understanding how to create the best sleep environment for your puppy ensures that it gets enough sleep and quality sleep. Age Age is typically the single most significant factor in the amount of sleep. As your puppy grows, it will require little less sleep. The amount of sleep should get down to about 14 — 16 hours a day as the Golden Retriever grows in adulthood. The younger the puppy, the more they sleep Puppies play a lot when not sleeping and often at a furious pace. As well, they grow and develop rapidly. That all requires a lot more sleep. As they slow in growth, their amount of sleep trends down slightly as they age. However, even adult Golden Retrievers spend the majority of their day sleeping. Activity Level Next to age for puppies, activity level is often the most significant contributor to sleep volume. Although puppies spend a good portion of the day and night sleeping, they still require activity, such as physical exercise, and mental stimulation e. How much activity they need is discussed below in the tips section. However, consider that more play and exercise means a more tired puppy and more sleep. Weather When temperatures rise in the summertime, it may be uncomfortable for a young puppy to sleep. Dogs typically have a much harder time dealing with hotter temperatures than we do. So, during hot summer nights, your puppy might find it difficult to cool down and sleep, especially if you lack air conditioning. Ceiling fans work well for circulating heat and keeping the room cooler. You can also sleep on the main floor or in the basement, which is often cooler than sleeping upstairs. For example, I have a mattress topper that I carry to the main floor during hot summer nights. Health Sick puppies or puppies with medical conditions might need more sleep. As well, some medications can impact sleep. If your puppy is sick, the extra rest helps it recuperate. If the puppy has a medical condition or one that requires medication, then make sure to discuss potential sleep impacts with your vet. It is essential to be informed and know what to do. Sleep during the day and night can differ, but both are important. Dogs, including puppies, very much live their lives by their internal clocks or circadian rhythms. While a sleep schedule is often most important through the night, ensuring the puppy has adequate sleep when it needs it during the day is also essential. Just like babies and toddlers need naps for healthy development and growth and to not be cranky or overtired , puppies also need to nap for the same reasons. Consider these tips to ensure your Golden Retriever puppy can sleep through the day. Do Not Disturb the Puppy When Napping Puppies are adorable, and often we are tempted to pick them up or play with them. However, it is essential to not disturb a puppy when napping. They are sleeping because their bodies need it. Consider how you feel when abruptly woken from a deep nap or sleep. For example, teach children to wait for a puppy to wake up before playing or cuddling. Try not to wake a puppy while napping — their growing body and minds need that sleep Schedule Nap Times Earlier, we touched on how important consistent sleep is to a puppy and how they sleep naturally based on a circadian rhythm. Typically, puppies will nap after a bout of exercise and play during the day. A natural routine may look like this; they eat, go potty, play, then nap for 30 minutes to two hours. Understanding that they typically sleep after an activity ensures that you can set aside quality time for napping. It also allows you to schedule some of YOUR activities during this time. For example, cooking and cleaning are much more difficult with an underfoot puppy that is eager to play. Teaching your Golden Retriever to settle to a mat or elevated bed helps in this regard. Scheduling activities can also ensure your puppy tires at the appropriate time. For example, understanding that puppies like to play after a meal, make sure your puppy gets plenty of exercise in the evening after supper. This will help expend his energy into the evening, so he sleeps through the night and helps him settle during the time you usually compress in the evening to watch TV. Teach the Puppy to Self-Soothe Like children, puppies can become overstimulated, making it difficult to wind down. While play and exercise are essential, too much can be overwhelming. Disrupting nap times may cause the puppy to be overtired. As noted in the first tip, do not disturb the puppy when napping. This is the first step to teaching a puppy how to self-soothe. In this way, it gets the largest block of quality sleep during the night, which coincides with when we need our best sleep as well. So, how do you ensure that your Golden puppy sleeps through the night? Below are some suggestions to help with that goal. Give It Enough Exercise During the Day While overstimulating a puppy can impact sleep, so can understimulating a puppy. All that pent-up energy from lack of physical and mental activity during the day means you might have a puppy that is energetic well into the evening and gets up frequently during the night. How much activity do puppies need? In addition to playing and mental stimulation, puppies need their month in age x 5 minutes of physical exercise twice per day. So, for example, take a 3-month-old Golden Retriever puppy. It would need 15 minutes of exercise twice per day or 30 minutes total. Lack of physical and mental stimulation can affect both the quantity and quality of sleep. For example, a small puppy that does not get enough physical or mental stimulation will have pent-up energy. As a result, you may find a puppy that not only seeks more attention but will sleep less than a more stimulated and tired puppy. A well-exercised puppy is a tired puppy Keep a Regular Schedule It is crucial to put puppies on a consistent and regular sleep schedule. The goal is to teach the puppy to hold its bladder through the night and get the most extensive single block of its sleep through the night when you are sleeping. An erratic and inconsistent schedule during the night can affect how much your puppy sleeps. For example, if you are constantly up to all hours, and your puppy is often up with you, it may impact your ability to get your puppy on a consistent sleep schedule. Dogs, including puppies, do not live their lives by a clock. So, the last thing you want is a puppy that is up during the night and sleeping all day, because that is what it is accustomed to. And as discussed earlier, puppies need both enough sleep and good quality sleep for healthy brain and body development. Establish a Routine Puppie catches on to routines very quickly. Often they will know when you are getting ready to leave in the morning when you brush your teeth and start getting dressed. Bedtimes can be similar. He then goes out for a potty break, gets a treat, and then immediately runs up and jumps on my bed, and goes to sleep. He knows his routine because it was taught as a puppy. Someplace where you can hear the puppy is beneficial should the puppy need to go potty during the night. Also, make sure the room is dark, cool, and quiet. Night Is Not for Play Your puppy may need a potty break during the night, or it may not be ready to sleep yet. In addition, they often want to play afterward or do not need to go potty but rather want attention. Then, bring the puppy back to its bed or crate and go to sleep. Resist the temptation if it whines or tries to engage you in play. The puppy needs to learn that nighttime is for sleep. The same patient and positive rules apply. Keep putting the puppy in its bed calmly and with lots of praise. Crates work well because they can be closed, which prevents the puppy from escaping and engaging you. Most puppies, once accustomed to crates, will love them! Bailey slept in his crate as a puppy, but now sleeps on my bed Just be prepared to ignore whining, barking, and crying as the puppy tries to get you to give in to your guilt by playing on your heartstrings. Training a puppy, especially during the night, can be challenging. So, if you need training help I reviewed the best online dog training courses to determine the best ones. The link is in the big gold box at the end of this post. Expect your Golden Retriever puppy to sleep upwards of 16 to 20 hours per day. Most of all, enjoy those times of sleep. When the puppy is not sleeping, it can be a whirling tornado of crazy activity. Raising Goldens: Recommendations and Resources. Evening Puppy Exercise Spend a good 10—20 minutes playing with your pup outside or inside a couple of times during the evening. Play a game of tug or get them interested in chasing a flirt pole. Not only will this tire them out, but it will also give them some important physical exercise. Evening Brain Games and Training Use the commercials during your evening television shows to practice some basic training cues with your puppy. Not only does this work their brains and take the edge off, but it builds your relationship with your puppy and promotes a solid training foundation. A puppy's attention span is pretty short, so keep training sessions short and sweet and spread them out throughout the day. Ditch the regular food bowl and use a puzzle feeder for your puppy's evening meal. Below are some of my favorite food puzzles and interactive feeders. They're fun for dogs and tricky enough to engage their brains, yet not so difficult that a dog will become frustrated and give up. I recommend starting with the West Paw Toppl featured below for your puppy's first interactive feeder , as the opening is wider than a Kong toy — making it easier to de-stuff and for you to stuff and then clean afterward! As your puppy is successful with easier stuffed toys, they can move up to more difficult puzzles! You can see my puppy Fozzie Bear going to town on his Toppl toy during crate acclimation in this video: West Paw Toppl Interactive Feeder Available at: Available at: Difflife Snuffle Mat This snuffle mat provides a variety of hiding spots for dry food or treats, encouraging your dog to use their nose to find their meal and helping to slow down eating. The repetitive nature of these things is self-soothing to your puppy much how activities like knitting are for us. The snuffle mat I recommended above is a great way to work their nose indoors, or you can scatter their food in the grass of your yard for them to sniff out. Freeze your puppy's meal in their Toppl to make it last longer or use a licking mat smeared with a tiny bit of peanut butter or wet food for a good lick session. Hyper Pet IQ Treat Lick Mat Spread a bit of your dog's wet food, peanut butter, pureed pumpkin, or low-fat greek yogurt on this mat to provide a soothing enrichment activity. Take your puppy out for a bathroom break as late as possible — ideally, the last person to bed should also take your pup to their potty spot. This helps empty them out, decreasing the chance of them needing to go in the middle of the night. Keep this last potty break calm and boring. You don't want your sleepy puppy finding their second wind! On this note, consider your puppy's evening mealtime. You don't want to feed your puppy too late in the evening that they need to go 2 in the middle of the night. However, if you feed them too early, they may be hungry at bedtime and that can make them restless. One way to prevent late-night hunger is to use food puzzles with small "snack-sized" portions of food as their pre-bedtime enrichment. When it comes to leaving water in your puppy's crate, I always recommend free access to water at all times. Water is a "primary resource" — meaning your puppy needs it to survive. And there are some medical conditions that require access to drinking water at all times. But, if your puppy is waking up continually during the night because they need to urinate, speak with your veterinarian to first rule out medical reasons such as a urinary tract infection and then discuss with them whether restricting access to water before and during the night is a good choice for your puppy. Keeping a puppy potty log can really help you determine your puppy's natural potty schedule, which can help you adjust feeding times to increase longer sleep time at night. Download our free potty log template. PRO TIP: It can be helpful to set an alarm for yourself during the night to wake up and take your puppy for a quick potty break. It's all about being proactive — with an alarm, your puppy won't wake up feeling like they're ready to burst and start whining or crying in their crate. As they mature, your alarm can be set later and later as they can physically hold it longer. For more tips on potty training, check out "How to Potty Train a Puppy. The transition from sleeping in close proximity skin-to-skin.The reviews and photos people have submitted for this product are absolutely heartwarming, you really should check them out. I like to believe that he found having a familiar scent paired with the heartbeat sound and heat pack very comforting as he learned to sleep in his crate. He certainly loved to cuddle with it, and even after he transitioned to sleeping outside of the crate once he was old enough, he still carried the Snuggle Puppy around to use as a pillow, as you can see in the inset photo. The Snuggle Puppy can last for years. Even when your dog doesn't need it at night, just take out the batteries and heating pack and your dog will still carry it around! Another important feature of the Snuggle Puppy is that it's washable just don't forget to remove the batteries first! Another Preventive Vet staff review: "Mary Berry was having a difficult time sleeping alone in her crate — our guess was that she was missing her mom and littermates. She slept so soundly with the Snuggle Puppy, we would bring it with us when visiting friends so she had a comfortable piece of home to rest with. I highly recommend the Snuggle Puppy to help your new puppy sleep through the night! If your dog's idea of "snuggling" this toy involves mouthing, chewing, or disemboweling, be sure to take the toy away from them. Batteries are very dangerous for dogs if they are swallowed. Soothing Scents for Your Puppy Using dog-appeasing pheromones also called DAP can help your puppy feel secure and calm, as these mimic the pheromones their mother emits during nursing. Pheromones work for many puppies, but not all. But there's no downside to trying it out with your pup, so it's something I regularly recommend. The Adaptil pheromone diffuser covers a large space and lasts for 30 days before needing a refill. You might even try a spritz from an Adaptil spray on bedding shortly before placing your puppy in their crate. Just one or two spritzes are all you need! Adaptil Pheromone Diffuser. Why a Puppy Sleeping at Night is Important There are a few reasons why puppies should sleep through the night. One reason is that it will help them to adjust to a regular sleep schedule. It will also help them to develop and grow properly and will keep them healthy. In general, a puppy needs to sleep as much as possible since it is growing and developing really fast. If the puppy learns from the beginning that sleeping at night is a natural thing, this will improve your life in so many ways. A rested dog is easier to handle and more socialized. Meanwhile, the dog and owner bond becomes stronger. The dog is also more relaxed and obedient during the daytime. By teaching the puppy its sleep times, you will solve a lot of problems. The most common reason is that the puppy is not tired at night. The second reason might be that the dog wakes up because it is hungry or thirsty. This can be fixed by feeding or giving water to your puppy at specific times during the day. Puppies have small bladders and will wake up frequently at night until their bladder becomes more developed. If this is the case, you can try taking your dog outside in the middle of the night so they can relieve themselves. If your puppy is still restless at night, you might want to visit the veterinarian. This will help rule out any serious problems that may be bothering your pup. A lot of puppies can sleep through the whole night after two weeks of training. But there are some puppies that it will take a little bit longer. As a general rule, you can expect your pup to sleep through the night after weeks of training. Nobody knows exactly how long an individual puppy will take because every dog is different. Especially if you know what wakes the dog up during the night, it is easier to train the puppy to sleep through the night: Establish a bedtime routine A routine will help your dog to get into a rhythm, making it easier to fall asleep. At a specific time each day, make sure to take your puppy outside for a walk or some playtime. Make sure the room is dark enough During the nighttime, it should be as dark as possible. Make sure that any light in the room is turned off, and use blackout curtains to cover the window. Create a comfortable sleeping environment The puppy needs to be comfortable in order to sleep. Make sure that the bed is warm enough, but not too hot. The temperature should be around degrees Fahrenheit. Also, make sure that there are no noise disturbances during the night. Be patient Some puppies will take longer than others to get used to sleeping through the night. Regular feeding times will help your dog get into a routine and know when to expect food. At first, the puppy may whine or bark when you put it to sleep. It takes time for them to understand that it is bedtime and they need to sleep. Keep training sessions short and positive. Your dog will eventually come around so long as you are patient. If your dog is up and about during the night, there are a few things you can do to help them calm down and get back to sleep. A little bit of exercise will help them wear themselves out and get back to sleep. If your dog is restless or seems agitated, try playing some calming music for them or use a white noise machine to soothe them. Make sure they have plenty of water and access to their bed or favorite spot in the house so they can relax comfortably. A puppy can feel most secure when sleeping in a crate. They will also be comfortable and feel safe if they know that a crate is a sleeping place. The crate should be big enough for your puppy to stand up and turn around in. The puppy should also be able to lay down comfortably without having his or her head pushed into the bars of the cage. However, during the first days, you will need to assist the puppy with getting into the crate. Make sure that the crate is also safe, with nothing on the inside of it which could hurt your puppy if he or she would decide to chew on it. It is important that this location is easily accessible for both the dog and its owner. Also make sure not to place it in a spot that would be harmful to your dogs, such as an area with too much sunlight or a cold floor. Most puppies require hours of sleep at night, as well as 20 hours during the day. Young puppies up to 3 months old need the most sleep, and as they get older they need less and less. During sleep, puppies grow and develop physically and mentally. Lack of sleep can lead to problems such as obesity, impaired socialization, and an increased risk of developing behavioral problems. Ideally, your puppy should have a regular sleep schedule so he can develop good sleeping habits. Try putting your puppy in his crate for scheduled naps and bedtimes — this will help him learn to relax and get some restorative Zs. Bottom Line For a puppy who is up and about during the night, there are a few things you can do to help them calm down and get back to sleep. Puppies need six to ten hours of good quality sleep every day in order to grow and develop properly. Try putting your dog in its crate during scheduled naps and bedtimes so it can learn to relax and get the restorative sleep it needs. Share this post:. By: Author Jennifer Seegmiller If you are a new proud owner of a Golden Retriever puppy you may think and wonder how can this little puppy be so full of life and energy one minute, and then completely asleep and dead to the world the next. You may wonder what is a normal amount of sleep for your puppy or full-grown Golden Retriever. Adult Golden Retrievers will sleep on average hours a day. Golden Retriever puppies will sleep hours a day in a hour period. How much your Golden Retriever sleeps depends a lot on their personality. Golden Retrievers are high-energy dogs so they may sleep a little less than other breeds. If you are fit and active your Golden Retriever will likely be also. If you are relaxed and laid back, your dog may be similar to you. Continue reading to find out. How much sleep does a Golden Retriever need? Puppies, adults, seniors Golden Retriever Newborn Sleep Patterns This stage of life is very short and full of lots of shut-eye! Newborns generally nurse every 2 hours but even while doing so they will have their eyes shut and look as though they are eating in their sleep. As they grow they will slowly start to spend more time awake. Around 3 weeks old they will have around hours of active time a day broken up into small spurts of energy and exploring their world. They need plenty of sleep to fuel and recharge their growing bodies. From months old, Golden Retriever puppies will generally sleep around hours in a hour period. This includes sleeping at night and daytime naps. Your puppy will sleep in longer stretches at night, but will still need to get up to relieve its small bladder and stretch. He may even have a burst of energy and seem like he wants to play. With some patience and guidance, your puppy can learn to sleep through the night by 4 months old, maybe even sooner. Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. We only recommend high-quality products that are used and recommended by real owners. If you use these links to buy something we earn a small commission. Older puppies from around months old will sleep about hours throughout a 24 hour period. At this point, they should be more active and inquisitive during the day and will be better about sleeping through the night in hour stretches. They will also take multiple naps during the day, as well as times of rest when they appear to be just lying around, but somewhat alert as well as high energy awake time when they will want to play and train. When will my Golden Retriever puppy sleep through the night? Golden Retriever puppies will generally sleep through the night by about 4 months old, but it can range from 8 or 9 weeks old all the way through 6 months old. Some puppies may also go through a sleep regression when going through a growth spurt or teething. Towards the end of this article, we will discuss those in the heading sleep problems and solutions. Fun fact: Senior dogs, as well as puppies, tend to twitch more in their sleep! This is due to a part of their brain called the Pons which regulates muscles and keeps them still while they sleep. Golden Retriever Adult Sleep Patterns Your adult Golden Retriever will normally sleep around hours in a 24 hour period, but more as he ages. In this study, researchers found that older and middle-aged dogs slept more during the day than young adult dogs. This was because they took more naps, not because their naps were longer. They tend to run out of energy and need to rest more often than the younger group. Older and middle-aged dogs also slept more at night than younger dogs because they had long stretches of sleep at night waking up later and woke up fewer times during the night. Golden Retrievers are bred to hunt and herd. It is ingrained in them to want to do a job! They tend to be pretty high-energy and love to be kept busy with games and exercise. Because they may have a bit more energy than other breeds, they may sleep a little less than other breeds as well. Some owners I talked to said that if their Golden Retrievers are left home alone all day they tend to just sleep since there is no one there to engage them with play or give them a reason to exercise. So as you can see their sleep schedule greatly depend on the kinds of habits you develop for your dog. At this time you will probably start to see your dog slowly increasing the amount of time it is resting and sleeping. Senior Golden retrievers will sleep hours a day on average as they get to be years old and older they could be sleeping up to 18 hours a day. For older Golden Retrievers, these could be signs of more serious issues such as dementia, arthritis, hypothyroidism, or other conditions associated with older age. Your Golden Retriever may be waking up more at night because its bladder is getting older and they need to use the potty more often. You can try and help with this by taking them out right before bed and limiting their water intake just before bed as well. Can Golden Retrievers sleep outside? Golden Retrievers can sleep outside if they are provided with adequate shelter and brought inside in extreme weather. However, it is not recommended that Golden Retrievers sleep outside. Golden Retrievers thrive on relationships and being close to their owners; sleeping outdoors can be lonely for this social breed. Even though sleeping outside may not be the ideal solution for your Golden Retriever, your dog most likely loves being outdoors! Many Golden Retrievers may have a desire to live outdoors all day long, and some may even ask to be outside at night. If your dog is comfortable with this and you live in a temperate climate, there is really nothing wrong with your dog living and playing outdoors, as long as your dog has adequate shelter and socialization it needs to thrive. After speaking to many Golden Retriever owners I found that the majority of them have their dog sleep inside. Most owners state their hot or humid climate as being the reason their dogs sleep indoors with them as well as their dogs need to be by their side following them around day and night. Some owners who have a dog door allow their Golden Retriever to choose whether to sleep indoors or outdoors. Why does my Golden Retriever sleep so much? Many factors could contribute to your Golden Retriever sleeping a lot. Puppies and senior dogs sleep more than adult Golden Retrievers. Stress, anxiety, boredom, diet, or disease can all be factors for why your dog is sleeping more than usual. In most cases, it is normal for dogs to sleep 12 or more hours a day. Lethargy or a lack of energy and enthusiasm can be a sign that your dog is being affected by something more than just laziness or a bit tired. If this describes your dog then definitely consult with your vet. Many diseases and age-related problems can come with a change in sleeping patterns. Some dogs will sleep more in the wintertime because the days are shorter and colder. You can read this article I wrote to learn more about that. Do Dogs Hibernate? Winter Weather Questions Answered If you think your dog is sleeping a lot because of boredom you can always make an effort to have more playtime and exercise sessions with your dog. You could hire a dog walker we have a neighborhood teen that loves to walk dogs for a very reasonable rate! Or join a fun program you can work on together like this popular brain training for dogs course! Sleep problems and solutions for puppies and adults If you are struggling with getting your Golden Retriever to settle down and sleep at night you are not alone. Things that may be making this challenging can range from crying or whining at night, waking up in the middle of the night, struggling to settle down, or waking up too early in the morning. Some dogs will start to sleep well through the night then a few weeks or months later start to wake up again. This is called a sleep regression and can be normal. Similar to human babies when puppies are teething or going through growth spurts it could cause them to wake up at night or have difficulties sleeping. This routine can include using the restroom, bringing the noise level down, dimming the light, creating a relaxing and calm atmosphere. Give them plenty of exercise: Since Golden Retrievers are bred to herd and work on a farm or ranch. Golden Retrievers need plenty of stimulation and exercise each day. Two hours a day for a high-energy Golden Retriever should be the minimum. The best time for a good exercise session is about 2 hours before bedtime. Try to include high cardio exercise as well and engaging brain activities so that your Golden Retriever will be both physically tired as well as mentally tired. If your dog sleeps in his own bed, or in a crate, having something that smells like you and a small stuffed animal to snuggle with can help him feel more safe and secure. This is especially true for puppies. One Golden Retriever owner said that the only way to get their dog to settle down and sleep is to put him in his crate in a quiet place with a blanket draped over the crate. Try changing meal times or limiting food and water: Take up their water after a certain time of the evening. If your Golden Retriever seems to need a bathroom break in the middle of the night all the time you can try changing his meal time to be a few hours earlier so he will get the poop out before bed or a few hours later so he can hold it until tomorrow. Either way, you may want to slowly adjust the time of his meals to see if that will help with the late-night bathroom breaks. If early morning waking is a problem, try figuring out what it is that may be waking them up: Is the sun coming up? Try adding some darkening curtains. Are there noises such as birds or early morning traffic? Try adding some white noise by using a noise machine like this one from Amazon affiliate link. All it takes is some investigative work to try and figure out what may be causing the problem. If nothing seems to be working, your dog has changed his sleep patterns suddenly, he seems very lethargic and low on energy all the time, or he has other symptoms like vomiting, diarrhea, blood in his stool, or other concerns then you should take him to the vet immediately to get checked out. Pro Tip: If you are not able to get a hold of a vet near you, or you want to avoid an unnecessary ER trip, there are online resources that you can turn to. Here is our best recommendation:.