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Age Age is one of the most common reasons for pets going gray. This is a very similar process to the one we see in humans as we age. The majority of graying will happen around the muzzle and face. Graying usually starts with a salt-and-pepper look in dogs. Dogs that are naturally gray can also show signs of aging, but you might have a more difficult time spotting these changes. Also, gray dogs might start to turn more white than gray as they age. While the reason is unknown, it is possible that stress somehow causes the body to stop producing pigment in the same manner as it used to. Do you have a friend that started graying before 30? Think of your dog in the same way. Even perfectly healthy dogs might be genetically predisposed to early graying. In fact, even puppies can have graying hair, and it can start to become more silvery with age. A few breeds are more likely to be genetically predisposed to graying. Schnauzers are known for their gray beards, while greyhounds and Weimaraners are naturally gray in color. It is also common for black dogs to start showing gray earlier than lighter colored dogs. Vitiligo is a rare skin condition that can cause pigment loss in certain patches of skin and fur. While the causes of vitiligo are unknown, many scientists believe that the condition is hereditary. Vitiligo affects all dogs a little differently. Some dogs will lose pigmentation on their entire body, while others will only be affected in certain spots. Vitiligo can also cause skin lesions and dandruff. Fortunately, all of the symptoms of vitiligo are painless for your pooch. While vitiligo is very rare, the following breeds are the most likely to have vitiligo: Rottweiler. The characteristics that the Labradoodle inherits are through the dominant genes or a cross between certain characters of the parent breed. When it comes to the color of the coat, there are two pigments that play a key role — phaeomelanin and eumelanin. Eumelanin is responsible for the black color and pheomelanin is responsible for the red color. When these two pigment genes interact with other pigment genes, it changes these basic black and red colors into different shades. One of these other genes is the S gene, also called the spotting gene or the self gene. The S gene is a dominant gene, so even if the puppy inherits it from one parent, it will still develop a snowy white coat. And since Labradors do not have an S gene, if the Labradoodle puppy is white, that means it inherited the color from its Poodle parent. A white coat is essentially the result of a lack of melanin or pigment in the Labradoodle. However, white Labradoodles still have pigment in their nose and eyes, which is what distinguishes them from a dog with albinism. Most of the time a cross between a light-colored Labrador Retriever with a white, cream , or yellow coat and a lighter-colored Poodle with a white, silver, apricot, or gray coat results in a white-colored Labradoodle. Albinism Albinism is a genetic condition that affects pigment production. A dog with albinism will have absolutely no pigment production and thus no color or white color on their skin and fur. Albino Labradoodles will have a pink nose, paws, and lips. Even the skin surrounding the eyes is pink. If you suspect the white coat of your dog is because of the albino gene, you can get your genetically tested. However, albinism is quite rare. So, if your Labradoodle has a white coat, it is most likely due to the S gene and not albinism. Alternatively, a dog may appear to be albino because of significant coat color dilution, and some breeds only have parts of their bodies affected by the albino gene such as the Doberman. Dilute Gene There are often instances where a Labradoodle may appear white, but it is not. This happens due to the presence of dilute genes. The dilute gene will dilute a pigment and make the color paler, especially with lighter colors. So, a yellow, cream, or apricot coat combined with a dilute gene will appear white. One example of a dilute gene is the Champagne Labrador. Labradoodles with the dilute gene may have beautiful coat colors, but it also makes them more prone to health conditions like alopecia. The G gene is dominant, so inheriting it from either of its parent breeds is enough for the expression of the gene. This may result in graying or whitening in the case of light-colored coats of the coats. Thus, a light-colored Labradoodle with the G gene may develop a white coat early in life. Health Problems Apart from genetics, there are other factors that can determine the coat color of your dog. Here are the two major health concerns that can cause your Labradoodle to have a white coat. Vitiligo Vitiligo is a skin disease that can affect many dog breeds. It is typically hereditary and affects the pigment in the skin. The disease starts at an early age, just after puppyhood. The dog starts losing color from the face first, followed by loss of color in other areas of the body. There is a higher risk of a Labradoodle inheriting this disease if the Labrador Retriever parent has a yellow coat. Systemic Stress or Anxiety While Labradoodles are highly intelligent and social animals, like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to stress and anxiety. And although stress is unlikely to cause a change in coat color, it can impact the health and shine of the coat. Are White Labradoodles Healthy? Usually, there is no correlation between the coat color of a dog and its health. A running white Labradoodle For white Labradoodles, whether their white coat is genetically inherited or is the result of a health condition will determine their overall health. One of the most common genetic health problems of white dogs is albinism, which also includes several complications. Albino dogs thus need extra care and protection. If your white Labrador has albinism, he will not be able to tolerate the hot rays of the sun and will have to be protected. These tumors can remain benign or develop into cancerous cells. The absence of pigment in the eyes also makes their eyes more sensitive. Studies have also shown that albino dogs are at a higher risk of developing deafness and other hearing-related health problems. White Labradoodles may also develop partial or complete deafness because of lack of pigmentation, but this is quite rare. Labradoodles, and any other dog breed, with a darker shade of coat are known to lose their colors because of genetic or health-related issues. Labradoodle hair regrows fairly quickly, give it 8 weeks and you will be back to fluffy. With dogs with darker coats, there is always the risk of the puppy developing a lighter shade as it grows up. However, dogs with lighter coats are not susceptible to such changes. The temperament of a Labradoodle will be a reflection of how the puppy is raised, socialized, and treated and not the color of his coat. F3 Labradoodle [Complete Guide] with Photos Since it is a crossbreed, the characteristics of the parent breeds also play a very important role in the temperament of the dog. Apart from a few quirks inherited from the parent breeds, Labradoodles are generally affectionate, lovely, and friendly. They usually do not display aggressive tendencies and are friendly and warm to strangers, children, and other dogs. It thus becomes very important to choose a good responsible and ethical breeder to get your pet from. Meeting the parent dogs gives you further insight into the temperament that the puppy may develop. Training A White Labradoodle Labradoodles are an enthusiastic, playful, and energetic dog breed. They are eager to please their humans and smother them with love and affection. However, it is important to start training Labradoodles from an early age to ensure the development of positive characteristics. A white Labradoodle with tongue out after rigorous training! Owning a Labradoodle also involves daily exercising as this breed has high energy levels and requires at least minutes of exercise every day. Without regular exercise, your Labradoodle may develop aggressive behavior, which can lead to further behavioral issues. Exercise and training are a must for any dog, and especially for highly energetic dog breeds like the Labradoodle. Early socialization and positive reinforcement are some of the best ways to train a Labradoodle puppy to ensure good behavior and a balanced temperament. Most Labradoodles need to be groomed every weeks. Usually, this is enough to keep the tangles and knots away and preserve the natural shine and gloss of their coats. Dog grooming tools for your dog. However, with a white coat, the grooming requirement changes. The white wavy and curly coat will require regular bathing and brushing, more often than other colored coats. This is also because the white coat is more easily stained and even a small patch of mud will look very unpleasant. Other than that, hair clipping every weeks is also a must. You should also consider taking your dog to a professional groomer every few months. Owning any dog comes with its set of responsibilities and expenses, and owning a Labradoodle is no different. White Labradoodle sits in the garden with its tongue out. Labradoodles need to be regularly groomed and require plenty of exercises, along with a healthy nutritious diet and proper training. White Labradoodles also have certain specific health concerns that you will need to be prepared to handle. If you are someone who stays away from home too often, owning a white Labradoodle may not be a good decision for you. Many breeders provide Labradoodle puppies but not all follow ethical breeding practices. Make sure you avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders at all costs; they are in it only for monetary gains and breed for quantity and not quality. A panting white Labradoodle rests after an intense play at the park! When buying a white Labradoodle from a breeder , research the breeder properly. Make sure they follow ethical breeding practices, are registered with a Labradoodle organization, and are experienced with the breed. Some of the Labradoodle organizations to look for are: Australian Labradoodle Association of America Worldwide Australian Labradoodle Association Australian Labradoodle Club of America These organizations make sure the breeders follow ethical breeding practices and that the parent dogs used in the breeding programs are of sound health. You can ask the breeder for genetic coat testing of the parent dogs to determine the possibility of having a white-colored puppy. And remember that the S gene comes from the Poodle parent. So, there is a higher chance of a white Labradoodle if the Poodle parent had a white coat rather than the Labrador Retriever parent. However, even with genetic testing, there is still no guarantee of a white Labradoodle. But, you can have your name on the wishlist of breeders so that whenever a white Labradoodle comes along, you will be contacted. Conclusion White Labradoodles are rare but an absolute joy to have around. However, like any other dog, owning a white Labradoodle is a big responsibility. 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. Toggle Menu This Is Why Your Labradoodle Puppy Is Going Grey Your labradoodle puppy was either black or chocolate brown when you added the new family member, and now he or she seems to be changing color. Why is my labradoodle puppy going grey? The genetic influence of the poodle tends to fade the coat to a lighter shade as the puppy matures. When you get a Doodle puppy it is very rare that you know exactly what color coat you will get, but you will always love whatever you end up with! Coat color is, of course, affected by parentage, and the colors can range from a single, even color to a wide multi-colored fur. Did you know that the colors can skip a generation or two? The grandparents and great-grandparents can have an effect on the final mature coat pigmentation. As mentioned earlier, coat color is determined genetically and there are several genes that are involved. Genes occur in pairs, one gene being contributed by each parent. This combination of genes will have some being dominant and some being recessive. The combination of the two determines what color the dog will be. Taking the Labrador Retriever as an example, colors that can occur are yellow, chocolate, or black. A black coat will appear charcoal, chocolate will appear silvery, and yellow will appear light gold or champagne. What Is Kemp Hair? Kemp hairs, when they appear, are usually found in a fleece-type coat of the labradoodle. The hair has a hollow middle and a comparatively thin outer layer so that it is quite brittle and breaks easily. Usually, kemp hairs appear in mature Labradoodles around the eyes and along the spine but have been known to appear in puppies as young as 4 or 5 months old. Stress or anxiety Stress and anxiety can cause fur or hair to go white. Although the reasons are debatable, sometimes stress can cause the body to stop producing pigmentation as well as it used to. Health Issues Although rare, hypothyroidism is a condition that can cause your Labradoodle to start greying. This condition is a result of the thyroid gland underperforming. Getting treatment for this disease from your vet should reverse the greying. There are a variety of liver and kidney diseases that can cause grey hair but are very rare. Always check with your vet if you suspect a health problem. I am a dog parent in Hot Springs Village, Ar. I created this site to help fellow Doodle owners with up-to-date information and tips for raising your puppy right! Post navigation. Joined: Tue Aug 22, pm Location: Surrey My 8 month labradoodle has loads and loads of grey hair! Post by loi » Sun Mar 11, pm Hi is anyone else sharing in my experience? I have a beautiful 8 month old male chocolate Labradoodle, which we purchased when he was 9 weeks old. He has been an absolute pleasure from the day we got him, easy to train and he has a lovely nature. He is playful and bouncy when in the garden and on walks, but has a lovely gentle and calm way around the house. He is now nearly fully grown and has that lovely puppy way about him, but has loads and loads of grey hair. If he didnt have that bouncy way about him, to look at you would think he was a much older. He started showing some grey hair at around 6 months the odd one here and there like some get, but by the time he was 7 months he had loads of grey hair around his eyes, and two very big patches on his back. One close to his neck and one close to his back end. He also has a large patch of grey on his tail. Do you own a young Labradoodle that also has lots of grey hair, or do you have any suggestions, I would love to hear from you. I love my dog dearly, but wonder why he is going so grey when he is just a puppy? Is there anything I can do? A white Labradoodle is a Labrador Retriever and Poodle mix dog, with a white coat. White Labradoodles always inherit their snowy coat purely from their Poodle parent. Besides their color, a white Labradoodle is not distinct from other Labradoodles. Choosing a White Labradoodle Have you been thinking about adding a white Labradoodle to your home? Labradoodles are beautiful and popular dogs. There are more than 15 different coat colors possible for a Labradoodle! So read on and find out if the white Labradoodle is the dog for you. What is a White Labradoodle? This term refers to when two breeds combine to accentuate the best traits in both breeds. The Labradoodle stemmed from the need for an allergy-friendly guide dog. Labrador Retrievers, on the other hand, make perfect guide dogs. But their fur sheds and holds dander that aggravates allergies. That makes it difficult for anyone who has allergies in their household. In the s, breeders combined Poodles and Labrador Retrievers to solve this problem. This resulted in the Labradoodle that we know today, and are still popular as guide dogs and therapy dogs. But that is unlikely, as albinism is very rare in both pets and people. All color found on dogs comes from two different pigments. As dogs grow, cells called melanocytes add these two melanins to their hair. There is still pigmentation in the nose and they eyes, but none in the fur. Pigmentation in the eyes and nose is what officially qualifies white Labradoodles according to the ALAA. This pigmentation also sets white Labradoodles apart from dogs with albinism. Albinism is the complete lack of pigmentation. White Poodles get their color or lack of it from the S gene. Labradors do not carry the S gene. Although very occasionally they might have small areas of the white trim in their coat. So, white Labradoodles always inherit their color from their Poodle parent. White Labradoodle Temperament It can be difficult to pinpoint the personality of a mixed breed dog. Both breeds are known as family-friendly dogs. Labradoodles can be high-energy and friendly. How friendly they are will depend on whether they take after the Poodle or Labrador parent more. Poodles seem to be a bit more aloof, whereas Labradors are often extremely friendly. You can help temperament with proper socialization, adequate exercise and lots of attention. White Labradoodle Health Every breed of dog will have their own health risks. Many issues that could arise are genetic. DNA tests are available for this gene, and it takes two faulty genes to pass the disorder along. Good breeders will have their dogs tested to avoid breeding two carriers together. Sebaceous Adenitis Sebaceous glands can become inflamed, affecting skin and hair follicle lubrication. This results in itchy skin, scaling, hair loss and even infection. At present, there is no DNA test. But you should talk to your breeder about whether they have seen it in the lineage. Epilepsy Poodles can suffer from idiopathic epilepsy, which is inherited. Here are some of the health concerns that they share. Some cases are mild, requiring only proper diet and exercise to maintain. Whereas, other cases are more severe, and may even need surgery to help. Bloat Sometimes with large dogs, their stomachs can grow too large with gas and rotate. This hinders their ability to release the gas. And also restricts blood supply. If this happens, it is life-threatening and an emergency vet visit is necessary. Progressive Retinal Atrophy This is a genetic disease that almost always leads to blindness. Luckily, a DNA test can identify this. Good breeders should be able to provide proof of testing for the parents. But one study suggests that it depends on the disease more than the pedigree. Labrador Health Issues The only major concern outside what Labradors share with Poodles is their risk of cancer. While Labradors are not the highest at-risk breed for cancer, the issue is still there. But with early detection, it could be manageable. If a dog lacks these melanocytes, it will also lack the proper hearing cells. This will result in a high chance of congenital deafness. This makes your White Labradoodle more susceptible to poor eyesight than other colors. Their white coat also means they likely have sensitive skin. Their time in the sun should be closely monitored. Labradors are shedding dogs, so your Labradoodle may leave lots of hair around. Their fur is thick, coarse and double-layered. They have a water-resistant outer layer and an insulating undercoat. They have a single layer coat. It could have the thick, curly wool-like fur of a Poodle. They may also have loose or no curls, with a lot more shedding. Labradoodle Coat Care You will need to brush your Labradoodle once or twice weekly. This may even mean daily brushing. They will need regular clipping to keep the coat from matting. A fine-tooth comb, brush, and detangling spray will help you care for them. White Labradoodle Coat Care As with most things, white means even more maintenance. White fur may mean your dog has sensitive skin. Choose a gentle shampoo, and keep full baths to a minimum. If your white Labradoodle gets dirty, wait until the dirt is dry and brush it out. You can also use cleaning cloths to remove stains. Pay special attention to areas prone to staining: around the eyes and mouth. Selecting a Reputable Breeder Lastly, regardless of coat color or breed, you should always look for a reputable breeder. Good breeders work towards the betterment of the species and the breed. They take important qualities such as health, temperament and more into account. These breeders are looking for quick money. So they take advantage of the popularity of designer breeds like Labradoodles. They do this by over-breeding dogs. That means the temperament of a Labradoodle from a backyard breeder can vary wildly. Properly bred Labradoodles are a little easier to predict. A white Labradoodle puppy may not be the most low maintenance dog that you can find. But there is a reason that this breed is so loved. Will you talk with your breeder about possible health concerns? Are willing to work a little harder with their coat? Then a white Labradoodle could be the perfect dog for you! Do you already have a white Labradoodle at home? Or are you still deciding whether or not to take one home? Readers Also Liked. Gray Labradoodle puppies may also be sold as blue or silver Labradoodles. So, finding a grey Labradoodle puppy can be quite a challenge. Your best bet is to work with breeders that specialize in this shade. What is a Grey Labradoodle? A grey Labradoodle is simply a Labrador Poodle mix with a gray coat. The exact shade of gray can vary from one Doodle to the next. Labradoodles of all colors come from two distinct lines: Australian and American. But, the Australian line also includes the Cocker Spaniel breed. There are two ways that a Labradoodle can get a grey coat. They will either inherit a dilute gene from each parent to weaken the black color to grey. Or, they will inherit the greying gene from their Poodle parent. Sadly, there are some health conditions that can affect the grey Labradoodle, depending on what causes their coat color. Genetics Behind the Gray Labradoodle Color Out of the parent dogs that combine to make the Labradoodle, the Poodle is the only dog with a standard, show-accepted grey coat color. And highly controversial to many purebred advocates. The two ways your Labradoodle can get a gray coat are: Inheriting the greying gene Inheriting two copies of the dilute gene All dogs have two basic pigments: eumelanin black and phaeomelanin red. When other genes interact with eumelanin, this basic black color can fade to grey. The Greying Gene The G greying gene is relatively rare in the world of canine coat color genetics. In fact, the Poodle is one of just 14 purebred dog breeds confirmed to carry it. So, a Labradoodle with the graying gene will have inherited it from their Poodle parent. Any Poodle — and any Labradoodle — can go grey over time. But, dogs that go gray from age can look quite different to Doodles with the graying gene. Labradoodles with the greying gene will often have a darker coat in puppyhood. But, as they grow it will fade to grey or silver. This means finding a grey puppy is harder, because they may turn grey as they get older, rather than being this color from the offset. The Dilute Gene The other way a Labradoodle can get a grey coat is by inheriting the dilute gene from both parents. Two copies of this gene will turn a black coat to gray. Altered black is calle d dilute because the interaction with other genes dilutes the full-strength black into a milder shade. Some may also call this silver or blue. The dilute gene is a recessive gene. So, a Labradoodle puppy who inherits only one copy of the gene will be a carrier, they will not be grey. A Labradoodle puppy will need to inherit a copy of the dilute gene from each parent dog in order to express it and grow up to have a grey coat. Other Ways a Labradoodle Gets a Gray Coat The greying gene and dilute genes are the two main ways for your Labradoodle to get a grey coat. But, other things can cause this coat color. Three other factors that can potentially cause a grey coat in the Labradoodle breed are: Age And health Age Just as people tend to get gray hair as they age, dogs can also go gray with age. This will usually start around their mouth and eyes. The extent a dog will grey from age will vary. So, if you want a grey dog from puppyhood, look for one with the dilute gene. Health Issues A number of canine health issues can influence coat color. One of the best known is thyroid dysfunction. Kidney and liver damage can sometimes cause premature greying. Dogs with dilute gray coats can suffer from color dilution alopecia, giving them patches of dry skin, thin fur, and poor hair regrowth. Finding Grey Labradoodle Puppies Canine genetics is a very young field. What we have learned is still dwarfed by what we have yet to learn. But researchers have developed some DNA tests that can identify whether a Labradoodle has inherited the dilute gene as a carrier to pass along or to express. So, if your heart is set on a gray Labradoodle, search for a breeder who is knowledgeable about canine coat color genetics. This gives you the best possible chance of selecting a Labradoodle puppy who will grow up to have a grey adult coat. These sellers are often much less concerned about selling healthy puppies. Puppies from these places can suffer from behavioral issues as well as health problems. Choosing a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder should always be your top priority. This may mean that you have to wait a little longer for a grey Labradoodle, but the wait will be worth it in the long run. Grey Labradoodle Rescue Another way to find a grey Labradoodle is to look in rescue centers. Labradoodles with the greying gene may not appear gray in puppyhood. But, dogs in rescue centers are usually a little older. Rescue dogs are usually cheaper than puppies from reputable breeders. Do You Have a Grey Labradoodle? The grey Labradoodle is an uncommon and beautiful coat color. Do you have one of these dogs at home, or are you currently searching for one? References and Resources. February 10, Table of Contents The Labradoodle is next to the Goldendoodle the most well-known type of Doodle dog. A cross of Labrador Retriever and Poodle, he is a large, goofy and always happy dog. While this Doodle mix can come in a variety of colors, the most popular one by far is black. Today we want to look at black Labradoodles in particular. How much can you expect to pay for a black Labradoodle? Are they hypoallergenic? Do they turn grey with age? Origin The black Labradoodle comes — like Labradoodles of all colors — from a pairing of Labrador and Poodle. The Poodle parent is typically a Standard Poodle. Labradors themselves come in three distinct colors: Black, yellow and chocolate. Poodles have a larger color variety: They can be black, apricot, brown, grey, silver, white … and also have irregular patterns, such as in the Phantom Poodle or Parti Poodle. Color genetics can be complicated. The best way to guaranteed get black Labradoodle puppies is to cross a black Labrador and a black Poodle. In such a litter, most of the puppies should be black. Are Black Labradoodles hypoallergenic? If you have spent any time researching Doodle breeds yet, you know that this is not an easily answered question. On the one hand, there is no such thing as a guaranteed hypoallergenic dog. On the other hand, chances are that your Labradoodle will be a lot more hypoallergenic than most other dogs out there. Whether your Labradoodle is black or a different color does not play a big role when it comes to their coat qualities — a black Labradoodle will be as hypoallergenic as a yellow Labradoodle. Training Labradoodles require consistent and positive training in order to turn into well-behaved companions, regardless of their color! As very energetic and outgoing dogs, it is crucial to teach them to be calm and focused in public and have good leash manners. Since these dogs become invisible at night due to their color, it is advisable to walk them on an LED collar in the dark. Coming when called is a very important skill to add to the list, as well as politely sitting and greeting visitors. You should not delay getting started in training your Labradoodle — the early you begin, the faster your dog will learn. Labradoodles are typically very food-driven. Use high-quality treats and food for your Labradoodle , and he will happily learn any trick you want to teach him! Do Black Labradoodles shed? As a Doodle breed, Labradoodles will not shed — or only shed minimally. If you are not a fan of dog hair around the house, a black Labradoodle certainly fits the bill. This is not true! You can either buy some clippers and groom your dog at home or take him to a local groomer. It goes without saying that this will be tied to daily brushing and monthly baths with a good shampoo. Do not let it mat or your dog will suffer from painful skin sores! Here you can find our recommendations for the best brushes for Labradoodles. Do Black Labradoodles turn gray? You might have gotten a black Labradoodle puppy, but within the first year he seems to become more and more grey. This dilute gene can be passed on without being expressed. Dilute puppies often look black when first born and start to lighten during the first year of their life. This might appear as if your black Labradoodle is turning grey — but in fact, he was just a grey Labradoodle all along who looked to be darker as a young puppy. If you have a true genetically black Labradoodle, he might start to get grey and white hair around his muzzle in his older years. Do they get hot in the sun? If you live in a hot climate you should consider keeping your dog in a short coat. Both the Labrador and the Poodle are waterdogs — meaning that your Labradoodle will probably gladly cool off in any kind of pool, puddle, pond or stream he can find. By wetting him down frequently you can prevent him from overheating in the sun. Remember that dogs cannot sweat and panting can only regulate their body temperature so much. Providing shade and cool water is crucial for keeping your black Labradoodle happy and healthy in the sun. How much is a black Labradoodle? Black Labradoodles will cost around the same as brown or cream Labradoodles. Yes — they are not cheap. However, it is really important that you do not price-shop when looking for a puppy! It is impossible to breed and raise healthy, well-mannered puppies with a good temperament for low prices. Labradoodles are prone to inheritable conditions such as hip dysplasia, and you need to make absolutely sure that your breeder tested both parents for potential issues. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.
You can bet on laying out a lot of cash for a dog like this. But purebred dogs, just like any other breed, can end up in rescue homes and shelters. Check out our list of the best Bernedoodle rescues in the USA and Canada — your best bets to finding a Bernedoodle to adopt or rehome These days, there are increasingly more options for Bernedoodle rescues around the United States. Some of these are single locations, some serve a certain state or multistate region, and some are remote networks of foster homes. If you are looking to provide a Bernedoodle with a happy home and want to work with a trustworthy rescue organization, these are some of the best options in the country. What Is a Bernedoodle? These larger-than-average dogs are gentle, affectionate, and playful. Unfortunately, because they are technically classified as a designer breed, they are often found in shelters once they have served their purpose. Best Bernedoodle Rescues 1. Doodle Rescue Collective Inc. This network is extensive, with more than locations. The goal of the collective is to save all the Doodle breeds possible. That includes Bernedoodles as well as other cross-breeds. Their website offers you the chance to apply for a dog when it needs a home. When they get a pool of applicants, the staff carefully reviews them to find the best match for the animal in need. For this reason, you might be waiting a bit longer for a Bernedoodle from the Rescue Collective than from other rescues. But the result is a pet that is perfect for you and your living situation. The team rescues unwanted and abandoned animals all around the country, including ones from puppy mills, unethical breeders, and kill shelters. Since they were formed in , the team at All 4 Paws has saved the lives of more than 12, animals. Many of the animals they foster come from commercial breeding facilities, where they are forcibly bred and then dumped when they no longer are useful. The animals rescued through All 4 Paws are placed in foster homes. If you are interested in helping, you can volunteer as a foster home or fill out an adoption form for a particular pet on their website. They are headquartered in Houston, Texas, but work with organizations around the country to help save the dogs and find them new homes. The dogs at IDOG Rescue are a mix of shelter dogs and dogs that have been voluntarily surrendered by their former owners. The mission is to find them a safe foster home until the right person can provide them with a new and permanent life. Because the network has foster families throughout the United States, it might be easier to find a Bernedoodle up for adoption in your area than you might think. You will have to apply for a specific animal to be considered. It is funded entirely through donations and staffed by volunteers. Although they mostly focus on Labradoodles, you will also find a good number of Bernedoodles at this organization. Doodle Rock Rescue operates throughout the wider Dallas area to rescue, treat, and rehome Doodle breeds. The organization was just opened in and is still a work in progress. Though their rescue efforts are based around Doodle breeds, organizers hope to open an all-animal clinic soon. Since opening its door in , the nonprofit has rescued more than dogs. If you live within miles of Dallas, this is a rescue you should consider. The organization rescues poodles and poodle mixes throughout the tri-state area and finds them homes. This smaller but dedicated effort is a great choice for anyone living in one of these three states. Mid-Atlantic Poodle Rescue screens applicants very carefully to make sure they can provide a good home for their rescue dogs. These usually include having a fenced-in yard and not having any children under the age of five. Oodles of Doodles Rescue Collective Oodles of Doodles Rescue Collective is a bit unique in that it does not operate out of a physical shelter or facility. Instead, it is simply a nationwide network of foster homes. This makes it more likely that you might find an adoptable dog since there are bound to be options in your area. With such a wide rescue effort, you can find Doodle breeds of every variety in almost every state around the country. These dogs have been rescued from abandonment, kill shelters, puppy mills, and other inhumane situations. While they wait for a forever home, they are sheltered by a foster family. Oodles of Doodles also offers a rehoming service for people who need to surrender their dog but want to avoid putting it in a shelter or a bad home. This non-profit organization operates on donations and is run by volunteers. The organization works with many dog breeds, but Bernedoodles make frequent appearances. You can chalk this up to the mountainous region, which is perfect for a mountain altitude-loving dog. This is to ensure that all the dogs go to families that will give them the time and attention that they need. The organization works with a team of adoption coordinators whose job is to match each dog with the perfect home. This extensive network of volunteers works to rescue, foster, and rehome Doodle breeds of all kinds. Anyone who lives within five hours of Dallas is eligible to apply. You will have to fill out an application for a specific dog. The good news is that you will find detailed animal bios with pictures, personal histories, videos, and more. The rescue makes sure you get a solid idea of a dog before you apply to adopt them. Doodle Dandy Rescue operates within a controlled radius for a good reason. The organization offers rehoming services for poodles and poodle mixes, which include Bernedoodles. It hosts frequent adoption events and tends to be very quick about finding dogs their forever homes. If you are approved, someone will contact you over the phone to talk about the dogs that might be a good choice for you. Like many other rescue networks, it does not have a physical location. Instead, it operates remotely to help rescue, foster, and rehome poodles and poodle mixes. Finding a Bernedoodle through an organization like this is not a guarantee. Georgia Poodle Rescue Georgia Poodle Rescue is a nonprofit organization dedicated to rescuing poodles and poodle mixes throughout the state. The organization is unique in the amount of training they offer for dogs and adoptive families alike. At Georgia Poodle Rescue, all the dogs receive basic obedience training as well as leash training. They are also housebroken and socialized before being listed for adoption. Anyone who wants to continue training sessions after the adoption is welcome to do so. Note: You can also check them out on YouTube and Instagram. NorCal Poodle Rescue — California This non-profit organization is focused on taking in unwanted and abused Poodles and mixes such as the Bernedoodles in Northern California. Being the third-largest Poodle rescue in the United States, NorCal Poodle Rescue has a wide network of volunteers and foster families in various states in the country. An important factor in their adoption process is being the right fit for the rescued pooch. How do they assess this? Usually, a volunteer takes a look at your application and if they deem you a perfect match then they will contact you for further details. Rest assured that this fee is used mostly to keep your cross-breed healthy before it goes home with you. Like most Bernedoodle rescues, Summit Dog has a stringent adoption procedure but they are set apart by a few requirements. If you live around the area, this Bernedoodle rescue may be a good place to start looking. Thus, they need a more patient and careful companion and guardian. You can check out their online contact form or review their contact details below. This, alongside the Bernedoodle rescue options from our directory, will increase your chances of bringing home the dog you desire. This rescue focuses on rehoming Poodles, Poodle-mixes, and other low-shedding dogs. You can check out their website for available Bernedoodles to take home. Oodles of Doodles Rescue Collective — Working to collect and match Doodles to their forever homes, this volunteer-run organization has been working tirelessly since .You can check out their available dogs for adoption on their website. Petfinder — Being one of the largest pet adoption websites, Pet finder allows you to browse through a wide array of dogs nationwide. One of the best things about Pet finder is that they have a search filter that allows you to narrow down your Bernedoodle search. Adopt-a-Pet — Similarly, Adopt-a-Pet is a platform that allows you to search across state lines for the Bernedoodle of your dreams. Local Animal Shelters and Rescue Organizations — Of course, the best places to look are right around the corner. Their primary owners are moving to a house with less space or accommodation without a backyard. The family went through personal problems or issues leading to their incapability to take care of the dog. The primary owner might have died and no family members want to take the dog in. The owners no longer want to put in the effort for their grooming needs. Their financial situation may have forced them to let go of their pooch as they can no longer shoulder its expenses. The family may have added a new member that is sensitive or not well adjusted to dogs. The owners could not keep up with its high exercise needs. No matter the reason, Bernedoodles end up in shelters through no fault of their own. Bernedoodles are a loyal and gentle breed that serves as a great family dog due to their innate Poodle intelligence and outgoing Bernese Mountain Dog temperament. However, breaking your bank is not a requirement to take home a Bernedoodle. This is relatively cheaper than buying from registered breeders. To provide you with a reference, provided below is a breakdown of where the Bernedoodle adoption fee goes: Expenses. Email: [email protected] Arizona Poodle Rescue is a collection of private foster homes in the Phoenix area and does not operate a physical shelter. This Bernedoodle rescue Arizona is even putting more focus recently into helping Standard Poodles and Poodle mixes so you have an even better shot at finding your Bernedoodle companion! Here are the steps we recommend taking to give yourself the best shot at finding Bernedoodles for adoption in your area… 1. Start with our list of rescues and shelters above. If they require you to apply in advance, do so. See our complete directory of doodle rescues! There is a chance that any of these organizations may have a Bernedoodle available. If not, there could be dogs of other doodle breeds that you may fall in love with! Search on Petfinder. This is a fantastic resource that lets you search for rescue dogs near you and filter based on breed, shelter, age, and more! Reach out to local shelters, human society, and doodle owner groups. It never hurts to ask around. You may even find a local doodle owner that needs to re-home their dog. Beware of Bernedoodle Adoption Scams Always do your research and thoroughly investigate any Bernedoodle adoption organization before accepting a puppy or offering payment of any kind. There are two main red flags you want to lookout for when searching for a Bernedoodle to adopt…scammers and deceptive marketing from breeders. Scammers will attempt to act as a rescue organization or charity while asking you for donations, adoption fees, or application fees. In addition to outright scammers there are breeders who attempt to be deceptive with their marketing to confuse and trick people into thinking they are rescuing a Bernedoodle puppy rather than buying one. What is the Process of Rescuing a Bernedoodle? Usually their adoption process is laid out in detail on their website. Some rescues have you submit a general application that they review each time a new Bernedoodles arrives at their shelter. Other rescues ask you to keep an eye on their website, Facebook, or Petfinder profile to be alerted when new Bernedoodles are in need of a home. At that point you would then apply. One thing that all good rescues have in common is that their application process is fairly extensive and in-depth. This helps increase the odds that the rescue Bernedoodles will only have to go through this stressful experience once. Some steps that may be involved are background checks, calling personal references, calling veterinarian and groomer references, a phone interview, and a home visit. Should You Adopt a Bernedoodle? This is why the application process is extremely important to ensure a successful experience for both dog and owner. You save money on puppy vaccinations and spaying or neutering. All rescue Bernedoodles will come with these veterinary appointments taken care of already. While this helps avoid as many upsetting surprises, you can never be too prepared for the large veterinary expenses that come with accidents and illnesses. Cons Due to their personality and history, many rescue dogs have specific adoption requirements like a fenced back yard, no children, no cats, or a multi-dog house. It may take longer for you to find the right dog for your family and the process is a lot more work. At the end of the day, choosing to rescue a Bernedoodle or purchase one from a breeder is a big decision. Learn More About Bernedoodles…. Doodle Rescue Collective Inc Lovebugs Doodle Rescue The Lovebugs Doodle Rescue has been in operation for over 10 years, and while they focus on Doodles, they do also deal with other breeds of dogs that need to be rescued and helped in some way. One thing to be aware of is that the application process with Lovebugs Doodle Rescue is one of the most involved in the country, but that is a good thing rather than something to be frowned upon. It just means they know in advance that their dogs are going to a new loving home rather than sending the dog back into a horrible situation. Based in Corona Del Mar, they always have a number of Doodle dogs in their care at any given time. We would recommend getting in touch with this organization and let them know of your desire to adopt a Bernedoodle. They can even get started with the application process in advance. That means checking you out, and that will speed things up when the perfect dog for you does indeed come into their organization. However, they cover a huge area when it comes to offering Doodles up for adoption. This organization has a tendency to bring a large number of Doodle-type dogs into their care. That does mean you will have a number of dogs to choose from at any given time. Now, we cannot guarantee that there will be a large number of Bernedoodles at any time. At least you stand a good chance of being able to find a dog that you would love to bring into your family. Also, they are breeders of Doodle dogs. However, the adoption and rescue aspect is a big part of what they do. Be aware that they do tend to ask for more money for the adoption process than what you will often find elsewhere. They simply look to get back the money they have spent on having them checked by a vet. But to deal with this organization, will involve getting in touch with them directly. You must make sure that they know you are looking to adopt a rescue in advance. This is instead of one of the litters that they have bred themselves. While they do deal with any breed of dog, this is going to clearly include a Bernedoodle, along with other Doodle dogs as well. This organization has managed to help thousands of dogs find their new forever home. They will work closely with you to identify and find the right dog for your own unique situation. This does involve you having to pass a number of checks with the organization. However, they simply want to make sure that you are capable of caring for the dog in advance. It makes sense to do this before the adoption process is completed. They will spend time checking over your own individual situation. Next, they will also spend a lot of time checking the dogs themselves before adoption. This makes sure they are healthy before being adopted out. All of the tests and vaccinations are then covered in the adoption fee, and we recommend contacting them to learn more about the current rates. Finally, make sure you tell them you are looking for a Bernedoodle to adopt. Your name will then be added to a list. However, keep in mind that they will then determine if you are the perfect match for the dog. Additional Info:. Thanks for stopping by! If you are a first time visitor, then congratulations on your decision to adopt a dog! Your are about to improve and potentially save! Every state page here on Local Dog Rescues contains a complete list of all the local rescue organizations that we have identified in each state. You will be able to see all their current contact information, as well as a link to their website, so you can check and see what dogs they currently have available for adoption. We provide all this information to help you identify ALL the available dogs for rescue near you, so you can find your perfect pup. It is jam packed with awesome info that will help you on your adoption journey! If you are considering getting a Bernedoodle, you'll want to check out the incredible book "The Complete Guide to Bernedoodles". It's written in an easy-to-understand way but still has the expert knowledge to help any new owner successfully raise their Bernedoodle from puppy to old-age. It's widely available, so pick up a copy if you see one, or click here to grab one on Amazon. This breed blends the silliness of a Poodle with the easygoing loyalty of a Bernese Mountain Dog. They are a companion dog through and through and love nothing more than to be around you. Overall, the Bernedoodle is a wonderful companion for anyone. We are so grateful that we are able to help you rescue the dog of your dreams. In addition to coming back here, you can also check us out on Facebook , Twitter , and Pinterest for additional info on rescue groups near you, current posts, and pictures! Bernedoodle Rescues in California. For instance, you can expect the adoption fee for a Mini Bernedoodle rescue dog to be slightly higher than Standard-sized dogs. In addition, younger puppies tend to be more expensive than adult and senior dogs. Most Bernedoodles live between 12 to 18 years without major health complications, so you can expect them to be a significant part of your life for several years. It Can Take Time for Your Bernedoodle to Get Along with Your Other Pets Bernedoodles for adoption might have an unknown background, so it might be difficult to tell if they can get along with other dogs, cats, or other pets in their new homes. Before applying to adopt a dog, be sure to ask the rescue if the dog is good around other animals. If your new dog is good around other pets, consider introducing them to each other in neutral territory. Keep their interactions brief, but gradually increase their time together and reward your pets if they express positive reactions to each other. This process can take longer for some dogs, so you should remain patient and monitor them whenever possible. Yearly and monthly pet budgets can differ from owner to owner, but you can expect to spend thousands of dollars a year to keep your Bernedoodle happy and healthy. However, the organization sees hundreds of volunteer workers dedicating their time at the shelter. Why Should You Adopt from a Rescue? There are many wonderful reasons new owners should adopt a Bernedoodle from a rescue. Statistics show that every year, an estimated 1 million dogs get euthanized. The number of dogs euthanized drops significantly when people adopt from rescues and shelters rather than puppy mills. The National Humane Education Society explains that puppy mills are factory-style breeding facilities that substantially harm puppies and dogs. The conditions are notoriously bad and the mills do not provide proper healthcare. This leads to ill puppies and dogs that often have issues with behavior. Puppies in mills come from adult female dogs that live in cages and spend their lives breeding without a home. When a dog gets too old and can no longer breed, puppy mills will kill or abandon the dog. Benefits for You When you adopt from a rescue, you will receive a Bernedoodle that has been well-taken care of and usually already trained. In addition, adopting from a rescue is usually much cheaper than other options. They also are wonderful, lifelong sources of dog owner tips and information. More often than not, dogs that are adopted from rescues have already had their vaccines, have been fixed, and are overall healthier because they receive adequate care. For you, this means less work and trips to the vet. You can also remind others of your good deed when discussing your dog with your friends! You must know if you will be able to handle the responsibilities associated with taking care of an animal. Consider the following areas and tips while researching Bernedoodle rescues. Know the Bernedoodle Breed Needs Every dog breed manifests different personalities and needs. When it comes to Bernedoodles, they need a lot of food, exercise, and grooming. Keep in mind that their size ranges from 40 to 90 pounds, and their height ranges inches. Most Bernedoodles will not shed that much because of their breed mix. However, they will still need to be brushed several times a week to maintain a healthy-looking coat. Their nails will need trimming once every 3 to 4 weeks. Bernedoodles do well with children and active young families. They also live decently long for a dog with an average life span of years. These dogs can be incredibly energetic and need an owner willing to be active with them. When young, Bernedoodles can be boisterous, playful, and sometimes headstrong. Relatively easy to train, the Bernedoodle does well with an owner willing to keep up with them. Usually, Bernedoodles will be quite eager to please during training. Remove all wires, shoes, and anything that your puppy may damage, chew, or that risk injury. Regardless of age, make sure that you have a collar, leash, bed, food, water, and everything necessary to make sure your dog is comfortable. Do not forget to give your puppy some new toys as a welcome home gift, and start training your Bernedoodle from day one. Do your research on each type of food before giving it to your dog. Each dog food type comes with health risks and benefits. Kibble, also called dry dog food, is the least expensive and easiest to store. Canned food is wet food and easy to store since it has a long shelf life. However, wet food is expensive and does not provide many health benefits for your dog. If you want to give your Bernedoodle dog food, make sure that you check the nutritional label to see how balanced the food is. Sometimes, canned dog food holds too much water or proteins that may not be healthy for your pup. Semi-moist foods unfortunately have a lot of preservatives, colorings, and flavors that are not healthy for your puppy. Most dogs enjoy this food type on special occasions. Food prepared by owners usually offers the most nutritional value. As always, talk to your vet about the best diet for your dog. Be Aware of Separation Anxiety Dogs and puppies are like children and need lots of attention. However, they need to be able to handle themselves on their own. At the same time, all dogs deserve an owner who does not leave them constantly. When dogs have separation anxiety, behavioral problems form. They may chew, whine, or urinate inside your home. At first, every dog will have some separation anxiety, and Bernedoodles as a breed are particularly prone to developing separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. To combat and prevent separation anxiety in your Bernedoodle, start by talking to your dog in a soft voice while leaving or returning. Then, establish a routine or action that you do every time you leave that lets your dog know that you will be back home shortly. Many other techniques for addressing separation anxiety in dogs exist that you can investigate. The vet will be able to prescribe medication for your dog that can ease anxiety. You might also like: Top Sheepadoodle Rescues For Adoption Conclusion Remember, adopting a Bernedoodle dog from a rescue requires a lot of responsibility, time, and money on your part. However, everyone who owns a dog will tell you that their furry friends are worth it. Have you enjoyed our list of Bernadoodle rescues? Tell us what you think in the comments and share this article with your friends and family if you liked it. Meet our writer Jen Clifford is an animal behaviorist and veterinary technician with more than a decade of hands-on experience working in small animal and specialty veterinary clinics. Leave a Comment.
His main purpose is for hunting large game. But this dog breed was also useful in guarding and driving livestock. It is said that he got his name due to using his front paws for just about anything. Boxer dogs look intimidating with their stern-looking faces and powerful bodies. But they are actually very loving family dogs that get along with children and other animals. They love being with their families, and being separated from them can lead them to develop separation anxiety. Since this working dog is highly intelligent but stubborn in nature, he is better suited for experienced owners. The average lifespan of the breed is 9—10 years. Look for a boxer puppies for sale Columbia South Carolina? Here is a brief background of this protective dog with a good sense of humour. History of the Boxer The Boxer dog breed is a descendant of the now-extinct Bullenbeisser a fighting dog with Mastiff ancestry and the Old English Bulldog. He was developed in Germany in the 19th century as hunters of deer, wild boar, and bear. Later on, he was used to guard and drive cattle. The man responsible for the creation of the Boxer breed was Georg Alt, who was from Munich. He crossed a brindle-coloured female Bullenbeisser named Flora with a local dog of unknown breed. In , the first German Boxer dog named Flocki joined a dog show in Munich. After winning the dog show, he was the first-ever Boxer dog to be listed down in the German Studbook. Modern Boxer dogs were believed to be the descendants of Flocki. Boxer puppies for sale in Columbia SC The Boxer dog breed slowly gained popularity throughout Europe in the late s. He was then imported to the United States in and was accepted by the American Kennel Club the following year. The American Boxer Club was established in .In both world wars, various military tasks were given to Boxer dogs including guard dogs, attack dogs, and messenger dogs. The British Boxer Dog Club was then formed in .The Boxer breed was recognised by the Kennel Club shortly thereafter and classified under the Working Group. Versatile and hard-working, these dogs are capable of carrying out different canine work. Boxers are good choices for protection dogs, police dogs, service dogs, and guide dogs for the blind. Temperament and Intelligence of the Boxer puppies Columbia for sale Extremely patient and gentle, the Boxer breed is good with children. But he is recommended for families with older children as he may accidentally knock over toddlers. Befriending other pets is possible if the Boxer dog is properly socialised at a young age. It will keep him from viewing small animals as prey and reduce his tendency to dominate same-sex dogs. Is a Boxer a good family dog? Yes, the Boxer breed is a good family dog. He may look noble and intimidating, but he is actually considered the Joker of the Dog World. Boxer dogs are playful and fun-loving. They love to be part of family activities and be the centre of attention. Are Boxer dogs dangerous? Boxer dogs may be tough-looking, but they are not generally aggressive. But they will stand guard and defend their families if necessary. Boxer dogs are initially wary of strangers, but they eventually warm up to them if no danger is detected. Their protective and loyal nature makes them good guard dogs as well as watchdogs. Are Boxers easy to train? Yes, Boxer dogs are easy to train if you are already experienced in handling the breed. They are intelligent but tend to be independent and stubborn. Due to this, they are not suited for first-time owners. Boxer dogs respond better to people that are firm and consistent. However, firm does not mean harsh. Instead of strict training methods, positive reinforcements are more effective in teaching this breed basic dog manners and tricks. Boxer Breed Highlights The Boxer dog breed is a loving, loyal, and protective companion. Boxer dogs are comical companions despite their intimidating appearance. The Boxer breed has low-maintenance grooming needs. As an energetic working dog, he has high exercise needs. Boxer dogs tend to be destructive when they are left alone or unable to let off steam. Are there miniature boxers? Yes, but they are rare. Miniature boxers are either a product of mating purebred runts or cross-breeding small dogs that have similar characteristics to boxers, such as Boston terriers, pugs, rat terriers, and fox terriers. While some of these minis may closely resemble their larger counterparts, they may not act similarly. Are boxers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, boxers are not hypoallergenic. What problems do Boxers have? Boxer dogs are brachycephalic, which means they have flat faces. This trait narrows their airway and causes breathing problems. As a result, Boxers should not be out in the sun for a long time as it can lead to heatstroke. Overexercising them must be avoided too to avoid triggering breathing difficulties. How long do Boxer dogs live? The Boxer dog breed has a short lifespan compared to other dogs. He can only live up to 9—10 years, and this is due to the prevalence of health issues in the breed. When buying a Boxer puppy, look for a reputable breeder whose breeding stock and litters are health-screened. This will help you determine how likely is your chosen Boxer puppy going to develop certain health conditions. Columbia SC Columbia is the capital of the U. With a population of , as of the U. Census, it is the second-largest city in South Carolina. It is the center of the Columbia metropolitan statistical area, which had a population of , and is the 72nd-largest metropolitan statistical area in the nation. Columbia is often abbreviated as Cola, leading to its nickname as 'Soda City. We will not send you unnecessary notices in the future. My name is Tetyana and I am glad to welcome you on the site of the breed nursery. Look no further! We have a network of trusted breeders who ensure that our puppies are healthy, happy, and ready to be your new furry best friend. What are Boxer puppies? Boxer puppies trace their origin to 19th-century Germany, where they were developed as versatile working dogs. Around the mids, German breeders aimed to create a loyal and courageous dog capable of performing various tasks. They crossed Bullenbeissers with Bulldogs and selected for traits like strength, intelligence, and agility. The result was the Boxer we know today. Boxers quickly gained popularity as police and military dogs due to their loyalty, trainability, and protective instincts. They were officially recognized by the American Kennel Club AKC in , solidifying their status as a distinct breed. Over time, Boxers transitioned from working roles to beloved companions and show dogs. Their friendly demeanor, boundless energy, and affectionate nature make them cherished family pets worldwide. The origin of Boxer puppies is a testament to the careful breeding and selection that have crafted a breed known for its remarkable combination of strength, intelligence, and affection. Temperament of Boxers Boxers are known for their playful and energetic temperament. They are intelligent dogs that are eager to please and love to learn new things. Boxers are loyal and protective of their family, making them great watchdogs. They are also affectionate and make great companions for children and adults alike. With proper training and socialization, Boxers make great family pets. We offer a vast selection of healthy and happy Boxer puppies that will make excellent family pets. With our commitment to quality and affordability, we make it easy for you to find your new furry best friend. About Vincent Hello! Are you looking for a lifelong companion? Look no further. I am here and just perfect for you. Trust me! I am very loyal, and I can make you smile with just the way I wag my tail. I have a wonderful disposition. Oh, silly me! Well, choose me today!
An 8 week old German Shepherd puppy is a bundle of antics and endless energy! Your 8 Week Old German Shepherd Puppy An 8 week old your puppy requires a daily routine and training to help them become the dog of your dreams. This article will not only help you understand your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy but will also explain to you why your little puppy has certain behaviors. Raising a German Shepherd puppy can feel like an overwhelming task at first! Just remember, your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is also adjusting to its new life with you. You should expect your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy to feel stressed and uncertain. They may seem timid and unsure of their surroundings. They might cry, whine, and not want your attention. Having structure and consistency will help create a bond and help you both in getting along more peacefully and calmly. Introducing A Puppy Crate Many dog owners choose to use a crate when it comes to caring for their 8-week-old puppy. While some people consider crates unnecessary, or even cruel, crate training is a useful skill to offer your dog. With the right training your pup will see its crate as their private safe space and will even go there to relax. Leaving your puppy at home unsupervised can get them and you into a heap of trouble. Crate training helps prevent your home from being a destruction zone. This useful guide to crate training a German Shepherd puppy gets you on the right track to success! Crate training your puppy can: help speed up housetraining teach your dog to settle calm down offer your dog privacy But you must introduce the crate slowly and positively so your puppy builds a strong connection to the benefits of the crate. Never just shove or push your young German Shepherd into the crate without using positive training. Your new dog also needs a routine and schedule to help them through the early days with you and set the expectations you have for them. Having a schedule helps your puppy to know what to expect in their daily routines. It keeps you from losing your mind and helps ease a worried puppy. While you might work from home or have other obligations, try to follow a schedule that looks similar to this: Early morning: Take your puppy out for the first potty break of the day! So, they may need to go outside even before the sun rises. Breakfast time: Your puppy may want to go back to sleep after going outside and this is perfectly normal. On the other hand, some puppies are wide awake and ready for their breakfast. Either way, always take your puppy back outside shortly after their breakfast so they can sniff and have another potty break. Mid-morning: Puppies should eat 3 — 4 small meals a day. Mid-morning is a good time for another small meal. Afternoon: This is a good time for their lunch followed by a potty break and plenty of sniffing time to work off some of their energy. Late afternoon: Puppies need another potty break in the afternoon, and some puppies need more breaks outside. Evening: Their dinner meal and their evening potty time. Remember to let them explore outdoors in a safe area to help build their confidence. Scheduling exercise, potty breaks, and play at the same times every day helps ensure that your puppy learns their daily routine more quickly and settles in nicely. And, even young puppies can learn basic training in their first weeks with you. Try training your German Shepherd puppy at home to start with. In the beginning, you may find a few accidents in the house. But, stick with your potty training and remember to always watch your puppy to keep them from having messes in the house. When you stick to a regular potty schedule, the likelihood of potty training mishaps decreases, and you and your puppy are less stressed. Always, always, always… Supervise your puppy indoors when you are potty training. Your toughest time together with your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy might be the first few nights. Your puppy has only known the comfort of his mother and siblings before. Having your puppy sleep away from you will only scare them more. And, although they are little, their cry is loud! Having a place for them near your bed is the best way to avoid a night full of tearful cries and howling. Can I let my German Shepherd puppy sleep in bed with me? Plus, when your puppy is an adult and tries to sleep in bed with you there will be no room for you! A full-grown German Shepherd can weigh up to pounds and will push you right out of your own sheets. Your puppy sleeps most of the day. A new puppy sleeps more often than they are awake. An 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy may sleep as many as 18 hours a day! Sleeping this much allows your puppy to have the energy they need to grow and keeps them ready to explore their new world. Feeding An 8 Week Old German Shepherd Your puppy should stay on the same food they were eating before you brought them home to keep them less stressed. This helps keeps your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy from having an upset stomach and becoming ill. Sometimes, you might want to switch them over to a different food. If you choose this route, do it slowly and in stages over a few weeks. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should eat 3 to 4 small meals per day. Although their stomachs are small if you overfeed them they could get sick and have stomach problems. Spreading their meals out throughout the day in regular intervals is best to avoid any upsets. Look for a balanced, complete puppy food for large breed dogs. As a large breed dog, your German Shepherd you should only feed your puppy food that is specially formulated for large breed puppies. Large breed puppies have different nutritional needs that are not found in ordinary puppy food. Feeding a commercially available food that is formulated for large breed puppies helps them to grow at a sustained rate. Steady growth in a large breed puppy helps to avoid stress on their bones and gives them a strong skeletal foundation for their athletic muscles. Limiting food intake in growing German Shepherd puppies has also been associated with fewer signs of hip dysplasia. This is of extreme importance in this breed due to the high incidence of hip problems and the pain associated with this joint disorder. A growing puppy is best fed a proprietary pet food that has been specifically formulated to meet its nutritional needs. Foods that are available as dry kibble are especially suitable to rear even the youngest of puppies. Opt for this specially formulated food for large breed puppies to keep your dog growing at a healthy rate that helps them stay strong. It is a complete balanced diet so nothing is missing. Within the first few days of arriving to their new home with you is a stressful time. Your puppy has just made a drastic life change and left everything they knew to be with you. Diarrhea and other stomach issues are sometimes stress induced. You can help your puppy by keeping to a regular feeding schedule and feeding them the same food they were on before coming to you. Sometimes diarrhea is also a sign of an underlying health issue and, if left untreated, can become life-threatening. If your puppy vomits blood, has bloody stools and diarrhea, becomes lethargic, or refuses to drink, call your vet immediately! To an 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy biting and nipping are all part of playing with their siblings. And, your puppy will most likely bite and nip you at some point too. They may even growl at you and tug at your hands or nip your ankles. This is all part of puppy play. But… It can really hurt you or make you bleed! Understanding bite inhibition means they know how to control the power of their play bites and how hard or soft they nip you. Preventing Nips and Bites If you know the right way to prevent and stop German Shepherd puppy biting, you can train your puppy to understand how to keep their razor-sharp tiny teeth from sinking into you. Instead… Offer them plenty of puppy-safe chew toys appropriate for their size. When they bite or nip you, calmly show them the toy to chew instead. Get their attention by moving the toy in a playful way around them so they begin to chase and bite the toy, instead of you or your furniture. Use these links to help you stay on the right track throughout their life. Can a German Shepherd puppy start training at 8 months? How to Potty Train Your 8-week-old German Shepherd Puppy Potty training your 8-week-old German Shepherd can be stressful at first, but with a bit of persistence and patience, your puppy will learn correct behavior in no time. The potty area can be outdoors or indoors. Having a designated potty place will help your dog understand that this is the only place they should go to poop or pee. Watch Out for Signs One of the first signs is usually an increased awareness of their surroundings. You may notice that your puppy starts sniffing around more often or seems particularly interested in certain places of the house. Watch out also for changes in behavior. If your pup suddenly starts having accidents inside or seems antsy and restless, they may be trying to tell you that they need to go outside. Use Cue Words One way to help your new puppy understand what you want him to do is to use cue words. Cue words will help your German Shepherd puppy learn the connection between the words and the action. You can also use cue words when rewarding him for going in the right spot. Give Training Treats When potty training your puppy, use treats as a form of positive reinforcement. Doing this teaches your puppy that good things happen when they go outside to do their business. When choosing treats for potty training, select something small and easy to eat. This way, the puppy can eat the treat quickly and then get back to playing. It would be best if you also chose training treats that your puppy finds irresistible. Otherwise, they may not be motivated to keep trying. Puppy Crate It is an enclosure to confine your new puppy for short periods. It is also helpful in transporting puppies from one place to another. German Shepherd owners use it for crate training as they can also help with separation anxiety and boredom. Puppy crates usually have a removable tray on the bottom for easy cleaning. They also have wire, plastic, or fabric as the primary materials, and they typically come in different sizes to accommodate puppies of different ages and breeds. When buying a crate, it must be big enough for the puppy to stand up, turn around, and lie down but small enough so that the puppy does not have too much space to eliminate in one corner and sleep in the other. When used correctly, it can provide a safe, comfortable space for your new furry friend. Early Morning: Bring your Puppy Outside When your German Shepherd is a still puppy, he may have trouble holding his bladder throughout the night. If you do not let your puppy out early enough, it might create potty accidents because he cannot control their bladder. Morning: Time for a Nutritious Breakfast Puppies need a lot of nutrients to grow up healthy and strong. A nutritious breakfast helps them get the energy they need to start the day. Even though puppies spend most of their time sleeping and cuddling, puppies require several daily feedings. Place your puppy on your lap and snuggle while sleeping. It would be best if you also let them rest throughout the day. Afternoon: Lunchtime Take your puppy outside after lunch to relieve themselves. Allow your puppy time to exercise and release any built-up energy. Feeding your puppy .Between naps, you can do playtime and training activities to help release energy, encourage physical activity, and develop a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd. Evening: Last meal of the Day During the evening, feed your puppy their fourth and last meal. Afterward, take your puppy for a short stroll. Before returning, have your puppy go potty outside, then snuggle up on the sofa for some quality time. Night: Potty Break Before Bedtime Take your puppy out for one more potty time before putting him to bed. Remember that you should establish a reasonable bedtime for your puppy early on. Moreover, an 8-week-old German Shepherd may develop a better appetite for other solid meals. These include constipation, bloating, and diarrhea. Diarrhea Diarrhea is a common problem that many German Shepherd puppies face. This condition has several possible causes, including dietary indiscretion, viral infections, and intestinal parasites. In most cases, diarrhea is not a serious concern and will resolve itself within a few days. However, seek veterinary care if your puppy displays other symptoms such as lethargy, vomiting, or lack of appetite. Constipation A young German Shepherd is particularly susceptible to constipation due to their large, muscular build and fast metabolism. If your puppy is constipated, you may notice that he has difficulty passing stool and seems uncomfortable or restless. If your puppy is constipated, take him to the vet for treatment. The vet may give him a laxative or enema to help relieve constipation. Bloating Bloating occurs when the stomach fills with gas, causing it to swell. German Shepherds are especially prone to bloating because of their deep chests. There are several possible causes of bloating, including eating too fast, drinking too much water, and exercising immediately after eating. Stress can also be a factor. To prevent bloating, feed your German Shepherd several small meals daily instead of one large meal. It is also important to avoid exercising immediately after eating and ensure that your dog has access to fresh water. Yes, a German Shepherd puppy can start training at eight months. But remember that every puppy is different and will learn at its own pace. Consistency is key, and with patience, your puppy will get the hang of obedience training in no time. Training should be a bonding experience for you and your pup! Remember to have fun and keep it light. At eight weeks old, a German Shepherd puppy sleeps for around 18 hours daily. It may seem like a lot, but puppies need a lot of sleep to grow and develop properly. As they get older, German Shepherds will sleep for less time each day. German Shepherd puppies use their mouths to explore their surroundings and socialize with other dogs and people. In addition, puppies typically start teething around eight weeks old, which can cause them to bite more as they try to relieve the discomfort caused by their emerging teeth. Puppies also explore the world with their mouths, and biting is a way for them to learn about their environment. In addition, puppies may bite out of excitement or frustration, especially if they are not getting enough exercise. If your puppy is biting excessively, provide him with plenty of chew toys and opportunities to run and play. Also read:. This article is designed to help you along your way. This is completely normal. Every new puppy owner has their moments of frustration and doubt. Remember that your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is going through a big life change, too. She may be feeling stressed and out of sorts when you first bring her home. Consistency and structure will go a long way toward helping both of you. Introducing The Puppy Crate A crate can be your best friend when it comes to caring for your 8-week-old puppy. While some people think of crates as cruel, the reality is that with the right training, your puppy will think of her crate as a safe, quiet space where she can go to relax. If you leave your puppy unsupervised at home, you may come back to find a whole lot of destruction. Puppies can get into all kinds of trouble on their own, with their natural curiosity and desire to chomp down on just about everything in their path. A crate can help you keep your German Shepherd puppy — and your belongings! While every puppy is different, chances are your daily schedule for the first week will look a little bit like this: Early morning: Time for the first potty break of the day! Breakfast time: You can feed your puppy breakfast right after her first potty break, or wait a little longer and let her go back to sleep first. Mid-morning: Time for another small meal, and another potty break. Afternoon: Lunchtime followed by a potty break. Late afternoon: Another potty break! Evening: Dinner, and then — you guessed it — potty time. Just before bed: One last trip outside before you turn in for the night. In between potty and mealtimes, your puppy will probably be playing or napping. Scheduling play and exercise at the same times every day can help ensure that you get that nice, quiet naptime right on schedule, too. Potty Training an 8 Week Old German Shepherd Potty training can be one of the most daunting tasks of raising a brand new puppy. It may take a bit longer than you expected for your puppy to get the hang of things! Your puppy has never been apart from her siblings and mother before. The best way to avoid a night full of mournful wailing is to let your puppy sleep in your room, at least in the beginning. Safer ways to keep your puppy comfortable and contained at night include keeping her crate beside your bed, setting up a puppy playpen, or even just using a tall cardboard box. In fact, an 8-week-old puppy can spend as many as 18 hours a day sleeping! This helps keep some element of consistency in her routine and her stomach. If you do decide to switch over to a different food after a few weeks, do so in stages. You can then increase that slowly over time. At 8 weeks old, German Shepherd puppies should be fed three to four times per day. Because the German Shepherd is a large breed, you should also feed your puppy a diet formulated specifically for large breed puppies. There are many commercially available diets made to help large breed puppies grow at the right rate. This helps to avoid skeletal abnormalities like hip dysplasia. Want more information on what to feed your 8-week-old German Shepherd, and how to change her diet as she gets older? We have everything you need to know right here in our guide to feeding a German Shepherd puppy. The stress of such a drastic life change can manifest in different ways, and an upset stomach is a pretty common reaction. You can give your pup a better chance of having a settled stomach by keeping her on the food she was eating before you brought her home, and feeding on a consistent schedule. Diarrhea can also be a sign of an underlying issue besides stress, however, and severe diarrhea can be life-threatening if left untreated. Your 8-week-old German Shepherd puppy is likely to bite you too, for exactly the same reason. She may even growl. And it really can hurt! Your Growing Dog As your German Shepherd puppy grows, our guides will help you care for her throughout her life. Here are a few links to get you started:.
Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for El Paso Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in San Diego? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in San Diego? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. In this healthy, loving and natural environment, our adult dogs and puppies run freely and thrive. All of our dogs are healthy, sweet, loving, gentle, and well behaved. All are fantastic family companion dogs and are very well socialized before they go home. Families often visit our ranch and feel very safe allowing their children to visit with our dogs, puppies, horses, and barn cats. Our ranch is a very peaceful environment. Love, consistent training, and patience is what we provide to our animals every day. Long life, well being, safety, and loving homes is what we strive for when we screen our new homes. Several years ago as we began looking for a female to breed to our Harley, we spent endless hours and days researching our best options and making sure that the puppy we would bring home would be healthy, smart, and sweet. That philosophy continues and we are so happy to share our puppies with families who are looking for a new family member. We raise all of our dogs from the age of eight weeks old and we do not rush to breed. We enjoy every stage of life with them and every day with them. Each one of them has their own personality, likes, and dislikes. We know our dogs. Not having to work away from home anymore gives us the opportunity to spend every day with our dogs, horses, and barn cats. It really is a beautiful life. We also are very proud that we have been able to maintain contact and receive updates about our pups over the years. The longevity of our puppy relationships is a testament to our commitment to the life of our pups. Facebook, Instagram, texting, emailing, and other forms of technology have been amazing tools to keep in touch and see how our pups are doing. This has been even more important as some of our pups are in different States all over the United States. Every puppy and dog on this site is either our dog or a puppy from our ranch. Please see the guestbook as there are several testimonials from families who have had our pups over the years. There are several pictures of these families with their pups who live in several states all over the United States. Thank you so much for visiting. Feel free to contact us via this site, our Facebook page, our google business page, Instagram, or a simple phone call. We welcome visitors by appointment. We have answers. San Diego Golden Retriever puppies will be listed for different prices online depending on a number of things like coat color, pedigree, breeder experience and more. Because we know that cost is an important factor when choosing a breeder, part of our MatchMaker experience is connecting you with litters who fit your budget, too. What if that are no Golden Retriever for sale San Diego nearby? Our network includes companies and breeders from all over the Lower 48 States, all with experience in making travel arrangements for puppies to major airports across the US. We have strict standards in place regarding our partner breeders and businesses, covering all facets of the breeding process—including animal health and care, legal compliance, facility maintenance and more. Have a look at our point Breeder Pledge to see exactly what goes into a quality breeder. How many are actually puppy mills? Just about anyone can sell dogs on the internet, but screening and vetting is almost impossible. What is a puppy mill? Unfortunately, there are many people in the world who see dogs as nothing more than products to be sold. Puppy mill dogs are more likely to get sick, to cost owners a fortune in vet bills, and to die at a young age. Are there any San Diego Golden Retriever puppies for sale near me right now? Our MatchMaker system is uniquely designed to make the dog-finding process easy, fast and fun. How do I know I can trust you? We know you have tons of choices for Golden Retriever puppies for sale in San Diego County, and we want to help narrow down your search to only the best options possible. Just take a peek at some of our reviews and Puppy Alumni to see the difference a little love can make—we promise to never work with unethical breeders and puppy mills.
However, that price can increase significantly, even into five figures, depending on the location and reputation of the breeder. Reproducing requires artificial insemination. These factors increase the investment for French bulldog breeders. The more investment a breeder makes into producing healthy high-quality dogs in good environments, the higher the price will be. The rarer the color is, such as blue, lilac or chocolate, the more you can expect to pay. Certain coat patterns, such as pied, merle or brindle, will also be more expensive. Female French bulldogs and those with blue eyes are pricier as well. Adopting through the French Bulldog Rescue Network is a more affordable way to acquire a new puppy or adult Frenchie. The French bulldog breed is exceptional with many rare characteristics that make them popular among dog owners. But there are also some challenges and things to watch out for. French Bulldog Size Fully grown French bulldogs average 12 inches tall. Adult females often weigh between 16 and 24 pounds, and males reach 20 to 24 pounds. Most French bulldogs will continue to gain weight until about 14 months old but stop gaining height between nine and 12 months. There are also mini Frenchies, also known as teacup French bulldogs. These are bred to be miniature versions of standard French bulldogs, weighing between five and 14 pounds. They typically shed in spring and fall, so you should increase coat brushing during that time to help reduce hair in your home. This can help you save on grooming costs. French Bulldog Appearance Along with breeds like English Bulldogs and pugs, French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a shortened snout. Their faces are wrinkly and scrunched, giving them a distinct look, even as puppies. French Bulldog Colors French bulldogs come in many different coat colors. These include neutral colors — such as cream, gray, tan and black — as well as more rare colors like lilac, blue and chocolate. The rarer the color, the more expensive the price of a French bulldog will be. French Bulldog Temperament These pups are affectionate and playful, making them great companions. Training is recommended for French bulldogs since they can march to the beat of their own drum without guidance. Most Frenchies respond well to training, especially when treats are involved. Trainers believe French bulldogs understand commands but are moody and will respond as they feel like it. Frenchies are great family dogs, do well around other pets and prefer companionship. A companion will also allow you to leave them alone for longer periods of time without them getting frustrated. But, of course, another pet will come with its own costs. French Bulldog Activity Level Frenchies are not the best dog if you want a jogging companion. French Bulldog Life Expectancy French bulldogs have an average lifespan of 12 years if well taken care of. If they remain in great health, they can live as long as 15 years. Your veterinarian will periodically examine your Frenchie to ensure he or she is growing properly. Due to their flat faces and short necks, it can be difficult for French bulldogs to use standard feeding bowls. You can instead provide elevated dog food and water bowls to help your pet eat and drink more comfortably. Buying treats, toys or a comfortable dog bed can also help your Frenchie feel welcome in its new home. And does the breeding of the dog drive up the price? When we were originally considering getting a Frenchie, we quickly discovered that blue French Bulldogs were far more expensive than any other color. We ended up opting for a standard colored Frenchie instead and we love him, of course. However, this process did give us a very good insight into how much Blue French Bulldog costs, so I wanted to share that with you today. How much are Blue French Bulldogs? Part of the reason that blue Frenchies are one of the most expensive dog breeds is because of the medical costs involved in the breeding process. Like all dog breeds, if you are looking for a pure-bred Frenchie then adopting a puppy from a professional breeder is recommended. Because of this, professional breeders often forgo natural birth altogether and instead choose to have C-sections performed see how much this costs to remove the puppies safely with minimal risk to their breeding dog. Breeders also often use artificial insemination to impregnate their dogs. This does tend to result in large vet bills which only help in driving up the price of blue French Bulldogs, although you should get the peace of mind the puppy you are buying is safe and healthy, with no repercussions of a difficult natural birth. Another factor when it comes to price is actually dependant on the color of the dog. Because of the high demand for these colors, it does mean that dogs and puppies with blue, tan and black fur are more expensive. Are blue French Bulldogs healthy? Many associations, however, do not recognize the blue Frenchie as an official member of the breed when it comes to competitions. This is because they believe that it suffers from too many different health issues ; but the fact of the matter is that while some Blue Frenchies do develop alopecia hair loss , many other variations of Frenchie are also affected. In reality, most blue French Bulldogs do not suffer from health issues any more than any other kind of Frenchie. I base this opinion on having spoken to owners of blue Frenchies as part of this research, rather than any scientific study. Do blue French Bulldogs shed more hair? French Bulldogs tend to shed their undercoat about twice a year. These guys are not hypoallergenic despite what you might have been told. How long do blue French Bulldogs live for? A healthy, well-bred dog is going to have a longer lifespan than one that had less than stellar origins, which is yet another reason why you should only consider buying puppies from reputable breeders rather than illegal puppy farms or unqualified breeders. Related questions If you are thinking about buying a blue French Bulldogs and are comfortable which how much they might cost, you should consider the following aspects too. What health issues do blue French Bulldogs have? As mentioned above, Blue Frenchies are not really any different to other types of French Bulldog, but that does mean that they may be susceptible to similar health conditions. Because of their breeding history and small, compact anatomy, French Bulldogs do unfortunately have a disposition towards physical and genetic health issues. Should I get a rescue blue French Bulldog? Getting a rescue dog is always a fantastic option and is always recommended especially if you are not looking for a pure-bred. As they are in high demand, blue Frenchie puppies are snapped up very quickly than more common pi-bald or brindle colors, but why not consider getting a slightly older pooch? Adult blue French Bulldogs are far calmer than hyperactive teenage dogs and are an excellent alternative if you are looking for a steady but loyal companion. In fact, if you do buy an adult from rescue, chances are how much you pay for a blue French Bulldog could be considerably less than the average. They are also quiet and often polite, although they can get a little territorial. Dogs are not born fully trained, so getting your puppy trained quickly can go a long way to unlearn their more negative traits. Conclusion Buying any dog is a huge commitment. Our experiences of Frenchies has given us a great insight into how well suited they can be to an owner, and vice versa. The following guides will offer some essential insight:. You can recognise these dogs with their distinct appearance such as the bat ears, short coat, a smushed face and a great expression on their faces. The only thing different about a Blue French bulldog is their rare bluish grey color and their price. These dogs are flat faced dogs and are known for their looks and their great personality. The French Bulldog has become one of the most popular dogs in the United States and has become the 4th most popular dog in the United States. How were Blue French Bulldogs Bred Blue French Bulldogs are widely popular for their fur and are also associated with lots of health issues in their lineage. There are some common misconceptions about Blue French bulldogs not being healthy. Blue French bulldogs are healthy if they are bred properly and carefully by an experienced breeder. Their genes are responsible for this change in their beautiful coat color. People often believe that Blue French bulldogs are not healthy and get sick more often than the standard colors of the breed. It is important to choose the best dogs for breeding for a really good litter. A majority of Blue French bulldog puppies come out very healthy and have a really beautiful coat color. If both the dam and the sire carry this dilute gene then it is very likely that the litter will have a bluish grey coat. The dilute gene will also turn their nose and their eyes blue. Breeders have to look out for these dams every step of the way. The litter is unexpected like any other breed. Frenchies tend to have puppies in a litter. Blue French bulldog puppies are difficult to breed because the breeders have to find suitable dogs that carry the dilute gene. These are some of the variations of the Blue French bulldog. Blue Fawn French bulldog This type of blue French bulldog can look a little dusky in color. They not only carry double recessive genes as the pied and blue ones but also the genes for the fawn color. Blue fawn French bulldog for sale can be hard to find as they are pretty rare. There is a very high chance that the French Bulldog litter will turn out to be a Blue Merle French Bulldog litter as it is a dominant gene. The gene dilutes the colors of the coat to a color which is lighter than the original. These genes give the puppy a very different color with patches of different shapes and sizes. The cost is very high for this pup if you want to buy a Merle french bulldog for sale. These can be visible when the puppy is around 4 weeks old. This is a very adaptable dog who can also be comfortable with small apartments. You need to be able to dish out some money to take care of Blue French bulldogs as they can be high maintenance. They require regular health checkups and a great diet to keep their coat healthy and beautiful. Blue French bulldogs are a great choice if you are considering buying Blue French bulldog puppies for sale. They are the same as a standard French Bulldog but with a beautiful looking coat. They were bred to be smaller versions of the larger bulldog and quickly became popular companions for Parisians living in small spaces. They have bat-like ears, can have a range of colors, and boast a short, smooth coat. They tend to weigh 28 pounds or less and are easily trainable. This is something to consider before bringing one into your home. The cost of a French bulldog varies based on where you buy it, as well as other unique factors about the dog. Purchasing a French bulldog from a breeder will typically cost more than adopting one from a shelter or rescue. How much does it cost to buy a French bulldog from a breeder? How much does it cost to adopt a French bulldog from a rescue? Sometimes, adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization is free. Why are French bulldogs so expensive? French bulldogs have long been one of the most popular dog breeds in the country. French bulldogs are also difficult to breed. They typically require artificial insemination and C-sections upon delivery. This can increase the cost for breeders, who pass those expenses onto the consumer via high prices. Factors that affect the price of a French bulldog Many factors can make a Frenchie — or any dog, for that matter — more expensive than the next. Some colors are very common, including white, cream, and black. Rare colors, like merle, blue, brindle, and lilac, are more unique and typically fetch a higher price. Gender: Female dogs usually cost more than males since they have the ability to produce future generations — and future income if you decide to sell any of her puppies. Bloodline and genetics: If a dog has parents or grandparents who've won shows, have other accolades, or were AKC-registered, this can increase their price. Dogs with health guarantees may also cost more. Breeder: The location and quality of a breeder — as well as the animals, methods, and facilities they use — can vary widely. You can expect a highly regarded, long-time breeder with a great reputation to charge more than someone with less experience breeding French bulldogs. Sometimes their price can be double that of a Frenchie in a common color like white or black. Boarding or pet sitting If you send your pup to doggie daycare, have them boarded while traveling, or hire a pet sitter, this will add to your ongoing costs. Ongoing classes may cost more than this, though. Pet insurance — if you decide to purchase it — may offset some of these costs, as well as other medical expenses. The American Kennel Club claims that Frenchies need coat grooming only once per month. What are some common French bulldog health problems? Hemivertebrae: Hemivertebrae can cause your dog to develop triangle-shaped vertebrae that can result in pain, weakness, and paralysis. Hip dysplasia: This is when the hip joint degenerates and no longer fits properly into the socket. It can often occur in Frenchies that are over-exercised. Patellar luxation: This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. It can cause walking problems and arthritis. Your Frenchie may also develop issues outside of these breed-specific problems that may also need treatment. What is the best insurance plan for your Frenchie? Some pet insurance plans cover only accidents and injuries, while others include preventative care, dental care, vaccinations, and other services. Consider your lifestyle and what activities you plan to do with your Frenchie before selecting a plan. Additional coverages may cost more. Asking for referrals from friends, family members, or colleagues who have bought Frenchies is one place to start. This can help you gauge the conditions the dog will be born into and the genetic line they come from. You can also look out for the signs of a responsible dog breeder, as outlined by the Humane Society of the United States. Is a French bulldog the right dog breed for you? French bulldogs might be right for you if you can afford the potentially high initial investment and are willing to spend time playing and socializing with your pup, as they are affectionate, playful, and active animals. The American Kennel Club says this breed is good with young children, good with other dogs, and overall very trainable. French bulldog FAQs French bulldogs are a unique and popular breed. What is the life expectancy of a French bulldog? French bulldogs have a life expectancy of nine to 12 years. This is slightly less than the average dog, which lives an average of 10 to 13 years. Do French bulldogs bark a lot? French bulldogs are not big barkers. A short daily walk should be enough for this small breed, making them a good fit for apartment and city life, where yards and large lots can be hard to find. What is the cheapest French bulldog? Purebred dogs represent only a small portion of shelter animals, so you may find yourself with a mixed Frenchie if you adopt one. What is the most expensive Frenchie? The rarest Frenchies tend to be the most expensive. How much is a French bulldog worth? Related articles. Facts Blue Frenchies are charming, fun, and have become one of the most popular dog breeds in America. They have a friendly temperament and casual laid-back attitude. Today there are more Blue French Bulldogs registered with the American Kennel Club than ever before, and their numbers are growing more and more every year. Breed Overview Small to medium 11 — 12 inches Weight: 20 — 28 pounds for males, pounds for females Lifespan: 10 — 12 years Colors: Fawn, fawn and white, fawn brindle, brindle, brindle and white, cream, white and brindle, white and fawn Suitable for: Families looking for a playful, easy-to-groom lapdogs that does not require a lot of space. Whatever the reason, these beautiful bullies are easy to love and one of the most beloved breeds nowadays, which explains their exceptionally high price tag. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. They were brought to France by English workers and later bred along with French Terriers, which resulted in the first French Bulldogs. Due to their small muscular build , they were used for dog fighting and other blood sports such as bear and bull baiting. However, this quickly died down once the practices were made illegal. Believe it or not, Blue French Bulldogs actually have a genetic mutation, which is why they have such unique coloring. The socialites fell in love with these beautiful animals and quickly stole the heart of the French. Even popular figures such as the Morgans and the Rockefellers owned Frenchies, and the breed was recognized in as an official one by the American Kennel Club. They Are Usually Born Via Artificial Insemination Due to their build, which causes the males to be disproportionate to the females in terms of genital location, these bulldogs often have trouble mating. This can make things pretty exhausting, and breeders usually go to artificial insemination as a preferred method of helping these pups out a bit. It also makes each procedure a little more expensive, but it allows the breeders to monitor for any potential issues. In some cases, they may doggy paddle a bit, but they will give out fairly quickly due to their weight. Pool owners need to be vigilant about these dogs, especially in the summertime. However, American breeders loved the distinctive bat ears, and it became a thing after a rose-eared bulldog appeared at a British kennel club in the s. Image Credit: Angyalosi Beata, Shutterstock 4. These bullies are brachycephalic, which means they have shorter noses than other breeds—which explains their scrunched-up faces and profile. This is actually a breeding deformity and can cause a number of breathing difficulties. Dogs with small snouts can have trouble going for long walks or runs and may not do well in uncomfortably high temperatures. Issues such as heat stroke and heat stress are also very common for these dogs, as they will usually have more difficulty cooling themselves in hot weather. French Bulldog babies are laid-back, calm, and generally well-mannered dogs. They love to get belly rubs, and massages, and make for great kid pets. Frenchies love to be included in family activities. They are super affectionate and eager to give attention to their owners. But they can also be playful, active dogs that enjoy fetching toys, playing hide-and-seek with treats of course , and going for short walks. These dogs are gentle, kind, and known for being very patient with children and toddlers. Grooming the Blue French Bulldog Regular brushing is necessary to keep their thin coats shiny. Regular cleaning of their ears, facial folds, and anal sacs will help prevent them from becoming inflamed. General Health Care Similar to any of the dog breeds, Frenchies need routine vaccinations in addition to checks for intestinal parasites and heartworm. There are also treats that can help with this. However, you should consult your vet if your bulldog exhibits signs of stress, such as spitting up foam, or other irregular behavior. These dogs should stay active because weight problems such as obesity can be an issue for them, especially as they age. Just make sure not to push your bullie past its limit. Blue bullies, like other dwarf breeds of dogs, may have abnormal vertebrae or premature degeneration in their intervertebral disks. Although their spine is supported by strong musculature and generally good posture, degenerated discs can cause serious problems. Most symptomatic back issues are caused by disc disease—not abnormal vertebrae. However, most Frenchies are able to safely exercise moderately, which is important for maintaining a healthy weight and good physical health. They work hard to please their owners and will train with food, treats, or other motivations. Many Blue French Bulldogs are now able to compete in some agility and obedience contests. They are also excellent therapy dogs in a variety of settings, such as nursing homes, hospitals, and schools. In fact, many veterinarians actually recommend getting insurance for these dogs due to their propensity for certain health issues. Conclusion Blue French Bulldogs are beautiful, friendly, and very easy to love. These dogs are on the expensive side due to their rarity and can be prone to certain medical issues. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. Blue French bulldog is considered the fourth most famous breed in the world. Another reason why this breed is among the favourite of dog lovers is because of its wonderful temperament. Are you interested in owning this dog breed? You are in the right place. We will provide you with the best details that will guide you about this puppy. This article is best for you. This dog breed is quite expensive, but it is worth it. Its cost can be determined by different factors like breeding history and location. You may wonder why Blue French Bulldog puppies are too expensive. We will reveal to you the answer. One reason why this breed comes with a high price tag is due to its medical costs during the breeding process. The dog has compact and small anatomy, and its hips are commonly too narrow. It can be hard for them to give birth naturally without risks to the mother and puppy. Breeders utilize artificial insemination for impregnating their dogs. Professional breeders also conduct C-sections to safely remove the puppies with minimal risk to their breeding dog. This can lead to higher vet bills, which can be a factor in the high price of Blue French bulldog puppies. Another factor for its high price is its unique colour. The most popular colours for this dog breed include black, tan, grey, and blue. These colours have a high demand, which makes them more expensive. Now you have learned how much is Blue French bulldog puppies. Let us know more about this breed. What is the Lifespan of Blue French Bulldogs? As a pet lover, it is natural that you want to spend with your dog for a longer time. If you wish your Blue French bulldog to live longer, you must be responsible for keeping it healthy and happy. Providing your pet with the best care can help her or him to live about 10 to 14 years on average, and the oldest can live around 16 years old. You must offer them their basic needs to enjoy a healthier and longer life. It is friendly and has an affable nature. Unlike other dog breeds, it is not quick to anger. They are polite and quiet, but sometimes a little bit territorial. However, it is also important to offer them proper training to develop their personality and temperament. It has double recessive dilute genes like pied and blue ones. They have the brindle gene that is visible around their eyes, muzzle, ears, and on their back. It is among the most popular among Frenchie dog owners. It is a dominant gene and is denoted by the capital letter M. Its gene dilutes different sections of the coat to a lighter colour. The edge and patches of this dog can be torn and jagged. They have light-coloured fur on their legs, chest, and cheeks. Sometimes, the pied pattern can cover one side of its face. This brindle striping can usually appear when they are 4 weeks old. The colour of their eyes can vary from brown to yellow, grey, and blue. Are Blue French Bulldogs Healthy? In general, Blue French Bulldogs are healthy. Meanwhile, you must also take responsibility to keep them healthy and strong. With that, they can avoid illnesses that can be detrimental to their health. Some French bulldogs can develop alopecia or hair loss. Fortunately, you can manage it by offering them a healthy lifestyle. Conclusion To sum it up, the cost of Blue French Bulldogs is expensive due to some factors. You must remember that purchasing this dog breed is a big commitment. You must have time and dedication to offer them with their basic needs for their overall health. Do you want to have your own Blue French Bulldog puppy? Then, you must have the budget and commitment to give them the proper care that they need to live longer life. You can also offer them with the best training to improve their behaviour and temperament. You must also be ready for the vet expenses to help them avoid illnesses and infections. Blue French Bulldogs are bred to be friendly animals. So, it can be your perfect companion in your home. They also have funny and quiet personalities which can make you smile. The only warning that we can give you is that they are famed for their snoring. They are noisy sleepers, so you must be patient with this pet. This dog breed is also good with kids and other pets. They can be your best friend.
For the complete list please see our Resource Page page. Because the boxer is so popular, the price for one will vary depending on where you are looking. For example, if you live near Detroit or Lansing, you should be able to find a boxer puppy around the middle of that price range. If you want one from a reputable breeder, however, it could cost significantly more. Prices may also vary because of the age of the boxer. Puppies are cheaper than older dogs, so you will want to shop around and compare prices before committing to a purchase. If you would like to adopt a boxer instead of buying one from a breeder, check out some local shelters or organizations that place rescue animals in homes. How to Find A Responsible Boxer Breeder in Michigan When choosing a boxer breeder, you will want to be sure that they are reputable and that your puppy is being cared for properly. If they have one, this should give you an idea of how much work goes into breeding boxers responsibly which can give you confidence in your choice of breeder. Although anyone can call themselves a dog breeder, it takes dedicated breeders with years of experience to truly take care of their dogs. The Michigan Boxer Club has approved member breeders who put health above all else when breeding their dogs. You should contact them if you are looking for someone who breeds responsibly and cares about the health and happiness of their dogs. In addition to checking out the parent club, you can find a list of member breeders in Michigan on our site below. Visit Your Michigan Boxer Breeder in Person Once you have found a few reputable members, take the time to visit them in person. This will give you an opportunity to see what kind of environment your puppy is coming from and should provide some peace of mind that he or she has been properly cared for. Not only does this give you a chance to interact with the puppies, but it also helps you get comfortable with the parent club members and gives them a chance to meet you as well. Taking these first steps can help build a relationship between all parties involved which will hopefully lead to successful future transactions. Now that you know how important it is to find a responsible breeder, where do you begin? ReadPlease is dedicated to making your search easier by helping connect potential breeders and responsible dog owners. Take a look at our list of approved boxer breeders in Michigan below to get started on your search today. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in Michigan When meeting your Michigan boxer breeder for the first time, you should be sure to ask them if they have any references for you. They should realize that you will want some sort of contact information, this is important information to gather before deciding on a breeder. Once you have some references, contact them to get their honest opinion about working with one another and how it went overall. The more references you talk to, the better your chances are going to be satisfied with your choice in breeder. If you are satisfied with all of your references, then it is time to put in an application for that adorable puppy. You want to make sure that you are getting a healthy dog with no genetic problems. Not only will meeting past customers give you peace of mind, but it can also help build a lasting relationship between all parties involved which in turn helps their next potential sale. Just like normal references, ask if they have any other people who have purchased from them within the last year or two that you can talk to about their experience with the breeder. This gives you a chance to really get into detail about how everything went and start building a rapport with these future friends of yours who just happen to own adorable boxers Does Your Michigan Boxer Breeder Have A Good Veterinarian They Use? There is nothing worse than having a sick puppy and not knowing what to do about it. This is why it is important to find out if your breeder has a good veterinarian they use and trust before you purchase your boxer from them. Not only does this help build a relationship between everyone, but it can provide you with someone who will be there for you when problems arise with your dog. The veterinarian can also offer advice on how to care for your boxer as well as give you the chance to ask any questions that come up about their health or behavior. Look out for The Signs of An Unethical Boxer Dog Breeder in Michigan When looking for a boxer breeder in Michigan, it is important to note the signs of an unethical breeder before visiting them. You should be wary if they refuse to show any paperwork for your future puppy such as the AKC papers, pedigree information, vaccine records, etc. Another big sign would be if they ask for money upfront before giving you any information on the potential parents, puppies themselves. Just like with anything else, you want to be wary of any contracts that are too long or confusing. Having these questions ready can help you quickly screen the different Michigan boxer dog breeders. As with any other dog, problems could arise at any time because of the genetic makeup of their parents. Things such as hip dysplasia or heart disease can be passed down from one generation to the next which is why it is important to ask your breeder about these potential genetic problems in your future puppy. This will help you avoid expensive vet bills until you know more information on what exactly is wrong with your new pup. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before bringing your new boxer puppy home, you will need to make sure that their designated area is ready for them. This includes having dog crates that are large enough for them to grow into as well as newspapers or pads on the floor where they can use the bathroom. Making certain areas of your home puppy-proof is very important. Make sure there are no chemicals, cleaning products, or small objects available for them to swallow or play with. They could cause serious injury to your dog which is why it is so crucial for their safety. Finally, make sure to keep a close eye on them until you know they are comfortable in their new home. There are a few things that you can do to help with this process though, including crate training which is seen more often in puppies. Potty training your new boxer puppy is a big job, but with the proper guidance and patience, you can teach them to go to the bathroom outside just like any other dog. Good luck finding your next loving companion! I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Welcome to the Michigan state page on TrustedPuppies. Nestled in the heart of the Midwest, Michigan is renowned for its stunning lakeshores, vibrant cities, and variety of dog-friendly activities. Our goal is to connect you with the most exceptional Boxer breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the ideal companion for your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable Michigan breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our MI breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Discover the dynamic dog-friendly scene in Michigan, featuring inviting restaurants, spacious dog parks, and engaging dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the West Michigan Harvest Cluster Dog Show provide an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of Boxer canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. Michigan claims the 7th position in U. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable Boxer breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in Michigan. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your Boxer puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect Boxer puppy on TrustedPuppies.
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Wish your golden retriever puppy would stop biting so much? Puppy nipping is one of the most frustrating things about raising a new puppy—their teeth are razor-sharp, it hurts when they bite, and they can ruin your clothes! But why do puppies bite so much? Puppies bite to learn acquired bite inhibition, or ABI. What exactly is ABI? He might leap up and bite you because you hurt him and scared him. But the important thing is this: how hard will they bite? This is where ABI comes in. So ABI is really important. Now the question is, how do they learn it? The only way for puppies to learn ABI is to bite, and bite often. The best teachers are other dogs. Next time they bite a little less hard and playtime continues. This is how they learn ABI. Obviously, it takes a lot of repetition of this scenario to happen for a puppy to learn not to bite so hard, but this is essentially how it works out. Yes, you will need to help teach your puppy ABI. You can do this two ways: Set up puppy playdates and take them to puppy kindergarten so other puppies can teach them ABI. You actually want them to bite a little bit and learn to control how hard they bite. That being said, letting them go on a biting rampage is not helping the situation, so here are five tips to help you stop your puppy from biting so much: 1. Socialize your puppy Other dogs are the best teachers of ABI so make sure to get your puppy in kindergarten and set up playdates with dogs that you know are vaccinated. Remove yourself from the situation Puppies can often be over-stimulated or over-tired. One thing we did with our puppy, Oliver, when he got in these moods was to go sit at our high-top table in the kitchen and ignore him until he calmed down or distracted himself with a chew toy. Exercise your puppy A tired puppy is a good puppy. Young puppies have weak jaws, so if they had dull teeth, a bite from them would be no big deal. Most adult golden retrievers bite out of fear and a professional can help you properly handle it. Puppy Biting vs. Chewing Puppy biting or nipping is when a dog purposefully bites you. As we already talked about, they need to do this to learn ABI. Puppy chewing, on the other hand, is when puppies chew on things to relieve the pressure in their mouths from their adult teeth coming in. Since puppies bite and chew for different reasons, you need to handle these problems differently. Mentally wear them by out by training them, going for long walks and letting them sniff around, and giving them puzzle toys or frozen kongs. Remember that a tired puppy is a good puppy. A: It can take up to six weeks or more for your puppy to learn ABI and what is appropriate to bite or not. If it takes longer than six weeks, just remember to be consistent with the steps to stop it and have faith that it will slow down soon. Q: Is puppy biting an act of aggression? A: Most puppy biting is a form of play. It helps them learn ABI. If you think your puppy is biting out of aggression, then you should talk to a professional. Q: Why are puppy teeth so sharp? Q: What is ABI? A: ABI is acquired bite inhibition, or the natural ability for a dog to not bite so hard. Q: Do all puppies bite? A: Yes! Instead, they need to learn to control their bite force, then learn to bite less. Have any questions about puppy biting? Let me know in the comments below! Related articles:. You are bound to want to know when your biting puppy will grow out of this phase and how you can speed that process up. Biting, as you will have discovered is usually accompanied by lots of noise! Why do puppies bite? So why do puppies bite? My puppy is biting hard Puppies do bite hard and it does hurt. But I want to reassure you that even at 8 weeks old, your puppy has learned to moderate his bite in play. Puppies have powerful jaws designed to tear through flesh and crush bones. Those of you who feed your puppy a raw diet will know that even an 8 week old puppy from a medium sized breed can crush bones the size of your little finger. He is deliberately attempting to be gentle. Puppy Biting — Bite inhibition This ability, that your puppy has, to moderate the power of his jaws in play, is called bite inhibition. It is something that his mother started to teach him when he was just a few weeks old. And now it is your turn to take over and complete the training process. Growling and Puppy biting One thing that often worries people who have a new puppy in the family, is the growling that accompanies puppy biting. It sounds horrific. Great snarls and snaps accompany the biting and the puppy can appear quite demonic as he grabs onto your skin, or clothes. Tugging away with all the strength he can muster. Ninety nine times out of a hundred this is completely normal play biting. Is my puppy biting aggressive? You cannot determine whether or not a puppy is biting aggressively by how hard he bites or by the volume of the noise he makes. Play biting puppies bite hard and growl fiercely. Some puppies do occasionally draw blood. But these are not normally savage or crushing bites and the puppy is clearly enjoying himself. Fierce but fun! The play biting puppy will launch himself at the target of his bite. Whether it is your slippers or your fingers, with equal tail-wagging enthusiasm, hanging on grimly and grabbing repeatedly when the item is removed from him. All this, shocking though it may seem, is normal, and is not a sign that your puppy is going to be an aggressive dog! In fact some of the gentlest and most amiable breeds the labrador for example are the worst and fiercest play biters. The puppy that is a cause for concern is the puppy that is frightened. Because although puppies rarely bite through aggression, the nervous puppy may become aggressive as he matures Is my puppy afraid? A scared puppy may bite and scared puppies can grow into scared adult dogs so this is something you need to address quickly. You will know that your puppy is scared because he will try to avoid whatever it is he is scared of. A really frightened puppy will sometimes give off a distinctive musky smell. This hiding, and retreating, and the scared smell are warning signs that you have scared your puppy badly, or purchased a poorly socialised puppy. In this situation you need to get specialist help right away. Your vet should be able to advise you. For the vast majority of puppy owners then, biting is normal puppy behavior. Will my puppy biting stop naturally? To some extent biting is a phase caused by natural puppy playfulness and teething. Some puppies do stop biting with very little input from their family. Which is great. You may feel he should have grown out of it by now. We can physically prevent puppies from biting and we can train puppies not to bite. Both of these are good strategies. Or when children are getting upset, or visitors are winding your puppy up. Prevention usually involves interrupting the biting behavior, then redirecting the puppy into an alternative and more acceptable behavior, such as chewing on a toy. Or, it may involve temporarily separating him from his playmates. Interrupting the puppy biting In mild cases you may simply be able to put a toy in your biting puppy's mouth and get him tugging on that instead of on your fingers. If you are on the floor with the puppy stand up. And if you are standing up, turn and walk away from the puppy. This is where dog gates come in very handy with small puppies. A standard baby gate works fine for most breeds of dog. Managing the puppy You may have to pick up your biting puppy to remove him from the scene if he is biting your children for example, rather than you If he bites your hands and clothes as you try to restrain him, put him on the other side of a barrier or in his crate or puppy playpen for a short while. Although the puppy does learn from them, these are useful management techniques to enable you to control the situation. They help you to keep your puppy calm, and prevent the biting escalating through over excitement. Over-excited puppies Puppy play biting is directly linked to excitement. The more excited your puppy gets, the more and the harder he will bite. And the harder it will be to interrupt and distract him. Rough play excites puppies and noisy play does too. Children tend to squeal when they play and get very physical with puppies. One of the first rules they need to learn when playing with dogs, especially big dogs, is to stand up and stand still when the game gets too much. Limit such play and call a halt to it if your puppy is biting. With medium to large breed dogs, physical rough and tumble play is not a great idea. It can lead to dogs bowling people over or humping them, neither of which is very pleasant. Stopping play when it gets rough is a good management strategy and it is a form of training too. Over time, your puppy learns that biting and rough play loses him his playmates and that people simply leave if he is being mean. When do puppies stop biting? Many puppies have stopped biting completely by six months of age and biting is usually subsiding by the time that the puppy is heading towards five months old. This is if the puppy has been managed appropriately If people have been exciting him, or rewarding him for attention seeking behavior then biting can persist And it can be much more of a problem in bigger stronger puppies than in little ones. Training Puppies Not To Bite The idea of this exercise is to teach a puppy to accept being stroked and handled in any way, without touching us with his teeth. The event marker is a distinctive sound. Even around his mouth, without him making any attempt to bite you. You can also make it easier for him by starting this training when he is calm and not distracted. But for now, keep things simple. It can be a good way of getting the training started so that you have chance to say YES and give the puppy the opportunity to learn what you want him to do. Over the next few sessions, you can work on getting your hand closer and closer to the puppy. Until you are brushing the sides of his face without him making any attempt to mouth or bite at you Progress to touching and holding his collar, stroking his ears, grooming him, examining his paws and so on, all the time rewarding him for the correct behavior. Anytime the mouthing returns, back up to a point where he can succeed and move forward more slowly again Bite Inhibition Training Some experts feel that puppies should be allowed to mouth and even bite gently for a week or two before being prevented from biting altogether. Simply follow the instructions for managing your puppy above when he bites hard. But allow him to mouth you when he bites gently without much pressure. This is a great way to teach a dog excellent control over his mouth. After a couple of weeks of this, you can progress to the training exercise I outlined in the previous section. Older puppies that bite in play have often learned that this gets them a lot of attention. They have discovered that people squeal and shout and get quite cross. Sometimes these people push and shove the dog around which young dogs quite enjoy when they are playing. For these dogs it is important that you stop all physical play, with all family members If a puppy is biting hard at your hands when you try to interrupt his game. Or an older puppy is getting out of hand biting at clothing, you need to put your puppy on a harness and house-line a short trailing leash. This will enable you to control your puppy, and take him to a calming place, without handling him. You can just pick up the end of the line and lead him away. Older biting puppies are often bright and bored. And the best approach to avoiding future episodes of bad behavior is a structured programme of training and interesting activities. A professional dog trainer using modern positive training methods will be able to help you with these. Summary So now you know some tips on how to stop your puppy from biting. The first few weeks can be tough with a determined biter in the house, but you will get through this and come out the other side. A few months from now, this difficult period will be a distant memory In the meantime, focus on keeping your biting puppy calm, avoiding too much rough play, and redirecting his biting onto appropriate toys and activities. Spend some time on the training exercise set out above. Are you a proud new golden retriever puppy parent or considering getting a furry friend? While puppies are adorable and full of energy, they can also be a handful, especially when it comes to biting. This article will cover practical strategies to manage puppy biting and help you and your pup develop a solid and loving relationship. Thus biting is natural. Their bites will become softer as they practice and learn to manage their bite strength. They will eventually stop biting entirely. While biting is a natural part of the learning process, it is essential to train your puppy not to bite excessively. Here are a few tips to get you started: Providing Chew Toys for Redirecting Biting Behavior Providing chew toys is an excellent approach to help your puppy stop biting. When your puppy begins to bite you, remove your hand or foot and replace it with a chew toy. This teaches them that biting is acceptable, but only when done with toys, not people. It is essential to keep an eye on your puppy when they play with chew toys to ensure they do not consume anything toxic. By exposing your puppy to a variety of people, animals, and environments in a controlled and positive manner, you can help them develop proper social skills and reduce biting tendencies. Socialization helps puppies learn appropriate bite inhibition and establishes boundaries for acceptable behavior during interactions. Through well-planned socialization experiences, you can guide your puppy towards becoming a well-behaved and gentle companion. Employing the Time-Out Strategy for Persistent Biting Use the time-out strategy when other methods fail to stop your puppy from biting. If your puppy continues to bite, place him on a time-out for 30 seconds before allowing him to return to play. This teaches your puppy that biting is unacceptable and will result in a loss of playtime or attention. Again, use a gentle tone and avoid shouting or scolding your puppy. When your puppy plays gently with their toys instead of biting you, shower them with praise and perhaps even a tasty gift! This teaches your puppy that good behavior leads to beautiful things. Instead, concentrate on encouraging appropriate behavior and redirecting any inappropriate biting. Your puppy will learn to control their biting and play in a friendly and safe manner with time, patience, and positive reinforcement. This entails repeating the same commands, techniques, and rewards each time you train. When you do this, your puppy learns what is expected of them and how to get rewarded. On the other hand, if you are inconsistent, your puppy may get confused and unsure of what they need to do to please you. This can make training more difficult and frustrating for you and your puppy. So, strive to be consistent in your training. However, they can get nippy during their fun exploration of the world around them. The good news is that this is a natural habit for pups, and there are ways to deal with it. Puppies prefer to bite to initiate play, learn more about their surroundings, and adjust their bite pressure, especially when they are teething. These actions are part of how they play, interact, and learn about their environment. First, however, puppies must be taught how to control their biting pressure and redirect their biting to appropriate toys and chew objects, which we will discuss later. Puppy bites, for example, can become more painful and even harmful as they increase in size. Additionally, it might lead to destructive chewing if you do not divert their biting habit to appropriate chew items. As a result, it is critical to address this habit early on through regular teaching and positive reinforcement. Understand what motivates them and what makes them more likely to engage in biting. Adjust your training methods: Not all puppies respond to the same training techniques. Some may respond better to positive reinforcement, while others may require more redirection and distraction. Consider their energy levels: Golden Retrievers are known for their energy and enthusiasm. Be patient and consistent: Training takes time, and each puppy learns at their own pace. Be patient with your puppy and provide consistent guidance. Remember, every Golden Retriever puppy is an individual, and what works for one may not work for another. With a customized approach, you can effectively address biting behavior and set your unique puppy on the path to becoming a well-behaved and happy companion. So, most puppies begin to bite and mouth less frequently when they are 8 to 10 months old. However, this varies greatly depending on the individual pup. Some may stop sooner, while others may take a little longer. Golden retrievers, for example, love using their tongues. At the same time, herding dogs such as border collies or corgis may continue to nip at ankles as they age. Just keep working with your pet and providing the guidance they require to create positive habits! Conclusion As you begin the joyful road of raising your Golden Retriever puppy, keep in mind that training and socialization are essential for producing a happy and well-behaved dog. You can teach your puppy what is expected of them and create healthy behaviors that will last a lifetime using consistent and positive reinforcement techniques. Remember that each puppy is unique, and what works for one may not work for another. You will be rewarded with a devoted and well-behaved companion if you are patient and committed to the training process. Remember to give your puppy enough exercise and mental stimulation and to continuously reward positive behavior. You can help your puppy grow into a happy and healthy adult dog who will provide you happiness for many years by doing so. By the time your puppy reaches around three months of age, they should start to develop bite inhibition and learn to control the force of their bites during play. As you continue to interact and train with your puppy, you can gradually increase your sensitivity to the level of bites you find acceptable. By the age of four or five months, their play bites should no longer exert any force. Can I use physical punishment to stop my puppy from biting? Certainly not! To stop a puppy from biting, never use physical punishment. It is not only ineffective, but it can also be harmful and cause long-term behavioral issues. Instead, train your puppy using positive reinforcement techniques, including redirection, time-outs, and excellent rewarding behavior. What can I do? Puppies frequently nip and bite while playing with other dogs, but teaching them to control their bite force is essential. My puppy is teething. What can I do to stop them from biting? Teething is a normal developmental stage for puppies , and they naturally want to chew and bite things. Similar to what we discussed earlier. 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. Read the full disclosure here. Tasty finger! Your golden retriever puppy is as friendly as can be — great with kids, respectful of other dogs, and not overly attentive to your cat. Yes, golden retrievers are known for their good-natured demeanor, but they are still dogs — not so very far removed from their wild cousins, and they can be unpredictable when faced with stressful, disturbing, or frightening situations. One of our jobs as responsible dog owners, of course, is to keep our dogs safe, but we may not always be able to protect them, and we may not always be able to prevent them from biting through fear or when in pain. What is Bite Inhibition? Puppies begin learning this from their mother and siblings as soon as they start to tumble around with each other in play. If they bite too hard, they are scolded by their mother or alerted with a yelp from their siblings. Eventually, they learn how hard is too hard, and they use their teeth more gently in play. Human Sensitive or Advanced Bite Inhibition By the time your puppy moves into your home, they will have been using their bite inhibition skills for weeks. Your puppy needs to learn that human beings are fragile and should be treated with care. There are many professional trainers who recommend that you simply train your puppy not to bite. This seems like a practical course of action, and it does work — in the short term. Teaching a puppy not to bite will give you quick results, but it may mean they never learn how much force is safe to use on people when they are forced to bite in an emergency. So if they do eventually bite, they will know to hold back the pressure safely and will not cause anywhere near as much pain or damage as they otherwise might. Why is Bite Inhibition Important? Believe it or not, even the most gentle dog that has been trained from a young age never to bite, can react to certain triggers. Those triggers are fear and pain. Consider these situations: Your dog has been suffering from chronic ear infections and hates to have his ears handled. The neighbor stops by with her toddler, who immediately runs to your dog and fondles his sensitive ears roughly. What will he do? You and your dog are walking down the road like you do every morning when out of nowhere comes a huge dog who attacks your dog without thinking twice. You manage to pull your dog away, but in the process, your frightened dog bites your arm. Your sweet golden retriever has gotten themself tangled in some barbed wire while hiking. As you loosen the wire from her skin and fur, she snaps at you, biting your hand. You may never experience any of these situations. By teaching bite inhibition while your puppy is young, you will be far safer and ready for any of these situations should they occur. Teaching Advanced Bite Inhibition Following is a general guide to the bite inhibition skills your puppy learns and when, as well as where you should aim for their skills to be at certain ages. She will start the puppies off by teaching them how rough is too rough during nursing and play. These lessons begin when the puppies start nursing day 1 and continue until the day you pick your puppy up from the breeder. This works for some puppies, but for others, it just seems to arouse the pup and make matters worse. You will have to experiment to find out what works for you and your pup. You should withdraw all of your attention from your puppy for very hard bites. Do not over-correct your puppy so they become afraid of biting. After your puppy has calmed down, use a chew toy as a reward and let them chew it in your lap or lying by your side. This teaches you puppy that there are other ways to keep their mouths and teeth busy. By four or five months, all force behind play bites should be eliminated. Kids tend to play rough with puppies, and puppies will get rough right back. Your puppy needs to know that every human being is sensitive to their bites, not just you. It is a process that sometimes lasts months, depending on your puppy. Be prepared for this, and remember that long-term results in your adult dog are more important than curtailing puppy bites as painful as they may be. Supervise your puppy around children — If you have young children at home, you will have to think carefully about how you will protect them and your puppy. Little puppy teeth can cause a lot of pain, especially when your pup is still learning to control those urges. Young children can also cause a lot of pain to small puppies. Always supervise very carefully when your pup and children are together. A tired puppy is a happy puppy — It will be much easier to teach bite inhibition if your puppy is not bouncing off the walls. Make sure they get enough exercise every day. Not only will this help with training, but it will also help prevent all kinds of other destructive behavior. Conclusion Teaching bite inhibition to your golden retriever puppy is a gift you give to your pup that will last forever. They Are Naturally Mouthy Golden Retrievers are a mouthy breed, to begin with, they are naturally inclined to pick up and hold anything and everything in their mouths. While it may seem like there is something wrong with your puppy to cause him or her to bite so much, rest assured, all puppies bite, not just Golden Retriever puppies. Play Behaviour When you see a litter of pups play together, they often nip and bite at one another. It is their way of socializing and initiating play. Your puppy will bite and nip at you during playtime with you because it is a natural behaviour to them. They Are Teething Many people associate puppy biting with teething, however when a puppy is teething they will resort to chewing and mouthing in order to relieve their pain. They may chew or mouth on your hands and fingers, but teething is not the cause of biting that every puppy owner experiences. Puppy biting is most often just play. To summarize, puppy biting is normal and should be expected as a puppy owner. In general, biting will naturally subside in Golden Retriever puppies around the age of months. This is around the time that their adult teeth have come in. Puppies at this age usually already know how to moderate their bite, and will not bite or nip at you as much as they did when they were younger. While biting anything and everything is normal behaviour to your puppy, it is not something that you want your puppy to continue to do. It is up to you to teach your puppy not to bite humans, especially children. Take a look at the common mistakes puppy owners often make, and learn to avoid them. Puppies who are excited bite more. Children often fall victim to the most puppy bites because they get very excited around puppies and this just gets the puppy going which results in biting. Any attention that you give your puppy after they bite you will seem like a reward to your puppy, and the biting will just continue. Yelling at your puppy, pushing them away, talking to your puppy, or even looking at them is giving them the attention that they want. Bite inhibition is when your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite. Puppies learn this skill when they are with their littermates, which is why they need to stay with them and their mother until they are 8 weeks old. Playing with their littermates teaches puppies that biting too hard hurts and will end playtime. The puppy then learns to bite softer. When your puppy comes home with you, it is up to you to teach your puppy how to control the force of their bite. Biting down on the thick fur coat of his mother or littermates is a lot different than biting down on human skin. By not teaching your puppy bite inhibition, you will risk your puppy turning into a dangerous adult. Puppy bites are a lot different than adult dog bites. Once your puppy learns how to control the strength of his bite, eventually the bites become gentler, and in time, your puppy will learn to stop biting altogether. This is part of teaching your puppy bite inhibition. This is a way to mimic how puppies play together, when one puppy bites another puppy too hard, that puppy yelps in pain, and will walk away. In some cases, puppies could get even more worked up by the noise and keep on biting. This is when you need to walk away. When your puppy has calmed down, you can resume playing with your puppy. When your puppy bites you again, repeat the steps of yelping and walking away. Eventually, your puppy will learn to soften his bite, because biting too hard ends playtime. The following video discusses why puppies bite, how to teach bite inhibition and how to survive puppy biting. It is a good idea to have a few chew toys on hand to offer up as a distraction from your skin. Check out this list of the best teething toys for puppies. This will get your puppy to stop and focus on being obedient. A great way to solve boredom is by going for a walk with your puppy. How much exercise should you give your Golden Retriever puppy? A good rule of thumb is 5 minutes of exercise for every month that your puppy is alive. So a 3-month-old puppy should get 15 minutes of exercise a day, a 5-month-old puppy should get 25 minutes per day, and so on. This is in addition to and not instead of playtime. Bitter Apple Spray can also be used to prevent your puppy from nipping and biting at you. Before you interact with your puppy, spray it on your arms, legs, pant legs, or sleeves, anywhere that your puppy likes to nip at you. Once your puppy bites at you, he will get a bad taste in his mouth and will stop. Bitter Apple Spray may not work on all puppies, some may actually develop a taste for it. I know that when my Golden Retriever Ellie was a pup this stuff worked amazingly well, but as she got older she developed a taste for bitter things such as crab apples which are extremely sour and she once sucked on a vinegar packet that was lying on the ground! Reward Good Behaviour Every time your puppy stops biting and nipping at you, you need to see this as positive behaviour. Good behaviour should be rewarded so that your puppy learns that he did something good. Rewarding good behaviour with affection and praise is great, you can also use treats, or toys, sometimes the best reward for your puppy is just spending time with them. Be Patient and Consistent Owning a puppy requires a lot of patience! It is so easy to lose your patience at times, but you need to know that your puppy is learning what is right and wrong, and that takes time. It might not happen overnight, but as long as you remain consistent and patient, your pup will learn good behaviour. If your puppy is nipping at your pant legs or sleeves, chances are he is loving the tugging feeling and is actually already playing tug-of-war. Instead of using your clothing, redirect his attention to a rope toy. One thing to be careful of is being too rough with tug-of-war, especially when your puppy is going through his teething phase. A game of fetch offers your pup a distraction from biting, and Golden Retriever puppies naturally love to retrieve things. This is a great way to also teach your puppy to drop it, by offering a treat when your puppy drops the ball or rope toy. A well-socialized puppy will be less likely to exhibit any unwanted behaviours later on. Enrolling your pup in puppy kindergarten or arranging some play dates with other dogs who are friendly and vaccinated is a great way for your pup to learn social skills. Other dogs are sometimes the best teachers for a puppy because they will let your puppy know what is okay for play and what is not okay, in terms of biting and nipping. Always supervise your puppy while playing with other dogs. Yelling at your puppy will only make your puppy scared and confused as well as lose trust and respect for you. Common mistakes people make when their puppy is biting are pushing them away, clamping down on their mouths or spraying them in the face with water. All of these are a bad idea! Your puppy could see this behaviour as a form of play and continue biting and nipping at you even harder. If you remain calm and use a firm voice not yelling , your pup will see you as in charge. Puppies and dogs often exhibit the same behaviour as we do, if you get upset and start yelling, your puppy will just get even more excited. As unpleasant as puppy biting is, it is normal behaviour. Your puppy biting and nipping at you with a mouth full of shark teeth may seem aggressive, but it is most often just out of curiosity and play behaviour. Golden Retrievers are known for their calm and gentle demeanour, but there are rare instances where you may have an aggressive puppy on your hands. Puppies who have been taken away from their litter earlier than weeks, bad breeding, being abused, a chemical imbalance, and not being socialized are all reasons for aggression in puppies. Signs of an aggressive puppy include barking, growling, lunging at you or another dog, a stiff posture, and showing teeth. If you think your puppy is aggressive, it is important to work with a professional dog trainer or behaviourist in order to find out the reasons for aggression and work on correcting the behaviour before it gets worse. It is important to keep your calm and work with your puppy to teach him the important skill of bite inhibition, and to redirect his biting to more appropriate behaviour. Socializing your puppy, as well as rewarding good behaviour will all help to turn your puppy into a well-behaved dog. Have you tried any of the tips mentioned above? Do you have any other tips to stop Golden Retriever puppy biting? Share your thoughts and comments below, as well as any questions you may have. I would love to hear from you. Jenny I am the proud owner of a Golden Retriever named Ellie. She keeps me busy, and when she is resting, you can find me working on my blog. She is always close by though. I live in Stirling, ON Canada with my husband, and we both enjoy the never a dull moment life with our Ellie. Spread the love.
The most common kind of crossbred or crossbreed dog is one purebred dog bred to another purebred dog of a different breed. For example, a Golden Retriever crossed with a Standard Poodle produces crossbred offspring called "Goldendoodles. You only get a hybrid when you cross two different species. For example, a horse bred to a donkey produces a hybrid we call a "mule". Dog breeds are NOT different species. A dog "breed" is simply an inbred family of dogs within the same species: canis familiaris. The inbreeding doubling up of the same genes is what makes a dog breed look alike. Some people call crossbred dogs designer dogs. But that's kind of silly, because purebred dogs are just as much designed as crossbred dogs. For example, breeders designed Border Collies by choosing specific traits that would help their dogs to be expert herders. Border Collies are just as much designed as Goldendoodles. Some crossbreeds have been given "names" You may have seen crossbred dogs marketed with cutesy names: Labradoodle Labrador Retriever crossed with Poodle Cockapoo Cocker Spaniel crossed with Poodle Schnoodle Miniature Schnauzer crossed with Poodle Puggle Pug crossed with Beagle Whether a cross has been given a name or not doesn't matter. It's still a crossbred dog. For example, if a Siberian Husky mates with a Dalmatian, the resulting puppies will be crossbred even though no specific name has been coined for a Siberian-Dalmatian cross. Sibermatian, anyone? No cutesy names required. Often called a "Puggle, this is a cross between a Pug and a Beagle. Beware: lots of shedding! Two more ways to get a crossbred dog A purebred Pug crossed with a purebred Beagle produces crossbred puppies. That one's easy. But also.So the pups inherit Pug and Beagle genes. That makes them crossbreeds. Many owners think they have a crossbred dog.But unless they know for a fact who bred the dog, and unless that person can guarantee who the parents were, such declarations are simply speculation. And it makes little difference who's doing the speculating. Many owners ask their vet, but just as veterinarians know very little about dog training and behavior, they know very little about dog breeds. Similarly, animal shelters love putting breed names on cages, but they also know very little about the breeds. If it's medium-large with shortish black hair, they'll guess "Lab cross. Why is it more likely that a dog is a mixed breed rather than a crossbreed? Because the chances are slim that a male purebred dog wandering around twon found another purebred dog, of a different breed, who happened to be female, who happened to be in heat which occurs only twice a year for three weeks , AND whose heat period was within the limited fertile window only a few days within that 3-week heat period. Now of course such coincidences do happen sometimes. And some people breed crossbred dogs deliberately. Other people happen to own, say, an unneutered male Bloodhound and an unspayed female Labrador, and the dogs accidentally "hook up" and voila — crossbred "Blabador" pups. Do they bark incessantly? There's only one way to do that. You can have his DNA tested. There's a veterinary company called Embark that will test your dog's DNA and tell you which breed s are in his ancestry. You can do this right from your own home. No vet visit. No blood tests. Embark will mail you a little kit with cotton swabs, which you simply swirl inside your dog's cheek. His saliva contains his DNA. Mail the swabs back, and the company will tell you whether your dog is a crossbred or mixed breed, and which breeds are in his genetic make-up. I think it's a lot of fun to find this out. Does it help to know which breeds are "in" a crossbred or mixed breed dog? Let's say you've just gotten a puppy who isn't purebred. Will finding out his breed composition mean you can predict what he will grow up to look like or act like? Will it help you raise or train your dog? Not much. Because even if you know which breeds are in him, you don't know whether those individual DOGS were typical for their breed. There are many purebred dogs who don't look or act like their breed is supposed to. For example, many Rottweilers love strangers. Many Pit Bulls love other dogs. Some Labrador Retrievers are shy or aggressive instead of friendly. Some Chihuahuas weigh 15 pounds instead of 6. If these atypical dogs produce puppies, their atypical genes and traits can be passed on and you might have one of their puppies. So just because your puppy "has pure breeds" in his ancestry doesn't tell you what those individual dogs were like. Therefore you don't know which genes and traits they had available to pass on. Finally, when a puppy's ancestors include two or more breeds, many of their genes may be conflicting. For example, suppose one of your dog's breeds has genes for friendliness. Another has genes for standoffishness. Another has genes for aggression. When your puppy inherits a jumble of conflicting genes, you don't know which genes will "trump" the others, or which ones will blend together to form some intermediate result. Advantages of crossbred dogs Crossbred dogs tend to have a moderate appearance. In The Truth About Purebred Dogs , I explain about the deformities that have been inflicted on many purebred dogs — tiny size, giant size, pushed-in face, protruding eyes, short legs, long back, floppy lips, long heavy ears, wrinkled folds of skin. On the other hand, when a purebred dog with a deformity is bred to a purebred dog without that deformity, the crossbred puppies tend to have an intermediate look. For example, a Pug crossed with a Beagle produces puppies with more natural-looking faces better for breathing , compared with purebred Pugs. Crossbred dogs tend to have a moderate personality. Labradoodles are a cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. They can make good family dogs — IF you provide enough exercise and training, because they are energetic. Crossbreeding tends to produce a middle-of-the-road temperament that often fits better into the average household than the more "extreme" temperaments of many purebred dogs. In The Truth About Purebred Dogs , you learned that most breeds were developed to do some type of work, such as herding, hunting, guarding. They needed traits that helped them accomplish their work, such as high energy, aggression, chasing, digging, barking, and independent thinking. Unfortunately those traits can be, well, a bit of a nuisance when you just want a family pet. But if you cross a breed with a certain "working behavior" with a breed that doesn't have it, the chances are good that at least some of the puppies won't have it or will have it in a watered-down form that's easier to live with. Crossbred dogs tend to be healthier. All dogs have defective genes. In fact, all living creatures do, including you and me! But often a defective gene doesn't cause any problems unless you have TWO copies of it — one from your mother and one from your father. A purebred puppy has a higher risk of inheriting two copies, since his parents belong to the same breed and share so many of the same genes, including the same defective ones. But parents of different breeds assuming those breeds are not similar to each other tend to have different defective genes. This minimizes the risk of their puppies getting two copies of the same bad gene. That's good. Not only that, but the greater variety of genes that a crossbred puppy inherits tends to result in a stronger immune system and better physical and mental health. It's called genetic diversity and it is a healthy thing. Should you get a crossbred dog? So now you might be thinking, "Yup, a dog with a moderate appearance, moderate temperament, and good health is exactly what I'm looking for. And that might be a huge mistake. Because I haven't told you yet about the DISadvantages of crossbred dogs. Oh yes, there are disadvantages. Also we haven't talked about the misleading hype that many crossbred breeders have spread across the Internet. You need to know how to pick your way through this minefield of misinformation, or else you're going to end up with a crossbred dog who does NOT have a moderate appearance, moderate temperament, and good health. I'll explain how to tell whether a particular cross such as Labradoodle, Cockapoo, Schnoodle, Puggle.You'll learn how to tell which breeders are good sources from which to buy — and which breeders you should run away from, as fast as you can! You'll learn how to adopt a crossbred dog from the animal shelter or from rescue.And if you should decide, that you might want a purebred dog instead, or even a mixed breed, you're covered. In fact, Dog Quest is perfect for helping you sort out whether a purebred, crossbred, or mixed breed is right for you. Learn more about Dog Quest. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. Check out my other articles on finding a good dog. It is a cross between the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. Note: there are two totally different types of Labradoodles, the Australian Labradoodle and the American Labradoodle. The Australian Labradoodle is a purebred dog, while the American Labradoodle is a hybrid dog. There are a few different ways breeders are producing American Labradoodles. This is not the best cross for people with severe allergies. Health Problems Prone to hip dysplasia and genetic eye problems. She's happy to get it thinned, but it doesn't last long it grows back fast. We caught them in the flower pots and started to shoo them away, but had to take a picture first.Labradoodles make amazing pets. We have been socializing them and exercising them faithfully every day and can see their excellent temperaments developing. His coat is less curly, more shaggy and scruffy looking. He is cool, laid back and more mellow than most other Labradoodles. It could be his age. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. Is my Labradoodle purebred? The simple answer to this question is no, unless they are an Australian Labradoodle. There are a few reasons why Labradoodles and other mixed breed dogs are not referred to as purebred. And why Australian Labradoodles may be an exception. What does it mean to be purebred? And their family tree consists only of dogs which also match that type, going back for many generations. To keep track of these requirements, dog breeders write a breed standard to decide what qualities define their breed. And then they use pedigree records to keep track of all the puppies which descend from the founding dogs which met that standard. Are Labradoodles purebred dogs? Labradoodles are usually a first generation cross. First generation Labradoodles have one Labrador Retriever parent, and one Poodle parent. Because their parents do not belong to the same type. What about Australian Labradoodles? Australian Labradoodles are the result of a breeding project to standardize Labradoodles, and establish them as a pedigree breed in their own right. They can be bred in any country, and not every Labradoodle bred in Australia is an Australian Labradoodle. Much like German Shepherds and Yorkshire Terriers. Aussie Labradoodle breeders have written a breed standard to describe the qualities they think an ideal Australian Labradoodle should have. And an Australian Labradoodle can be purebred if they are descended from many generations of previous Australian Labradoodles. The Australian Labradoodle Association maintains pedigree records of qualifying purebred dogs. But they are not yet recognized by the AKC. Does being purebred matter? This is a thorny subject. First-generation crosses of two different dogs breeds also known as designer dogs have surged in popularity in recent years. But some people disapprove of them. The reality is that both purebred and mixed breed dog have drawbacks, and things that recommend them, and disadvantages. You can decide for yourself whether having a purebred dog matters to you. But one thing that should matter to everyone is responsible breeding. And unfortunately whenever any kind of dog becomes popular, it also become vulnerable to exploitations by bad breeders. Why is this important? Responsible Labradoodle breeders will make sure that the Labradoodles they sell are as healthy as possible. Both the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle can pass on genetic health conditions to their offspring, so you should always look for a breeder who tests for good health. Good breeders also socialize puppies carefully from a young age, to help them grow into well-adjusted adults. If you buy a Labradoodle puppy from an online website or retail pet store, it is likely that your dog comes from a large scale, for profit breeding operation known as a puppy mill. Dogs reared in puppy mills are more likely to be in poor health, have underlying hereditary diseases, and display unwanted behavior like fear-based aggression. This can make them expensive and stressful pets. Puppy mills are likely to breed Labradoodles because they are highly sought after, and easy to sell. Fortunately, there are organizations that work with breeders to maintain standards and ethics for Labradoodle breeding. Regional Labradoodle clubs and associations usually maintain lists of vetted and approved breeders. Once you narrow your search to legitimate Labradoodle breeders your choices may be more limited, but you will end up with a healthier dog. What should you look for in a breeder? Whether you are getting a Labradoodle or any other purebred or mixed breed dog, there are a few simple things to keep in mind when searching for a breeder. Most breeders should also be able to provide you with referrals from previous clients. Check for signs of quality care like space and cleanliness. A responsible breeder who cares about where their puppies go will have as many questions for you as you have for them. Expect questions about your home, lifestyle, veterinarian, and experience with other pets. Look for a breeder who shares all health information with you. A reputable breeder will provide you with a written contract and health guarantee. Expect to sign a contract saying you will return the dog to the breeder if you can no longer care for it. A health guarantee ensures that the breeder will take the puppy back and provide you with a refund if a health problem is diagnosed within a specified timeframe after purchase. This is general advice that applies to any dog breed. Are there any special considerations for Labradoodles? How to Find a Quality Labradoodle Breeder What do you need to know to make sure that your new Labradoodle is healthy and comes from a caring environment? Your can start looking for that perfect Labradoodle puppy by checking out the websites of the various Labradoodle associations. The Australian Labradoodle Association of America maintains a list of member breeders on their website. They emphasize responsible breeding practices and health testing and expect member breeders to follow their code of ethics. There is also an Australian Labradoodle Club of America. You can search for accredited breeders on their website. They also ask member breeders to sign a code of ethics. They also have a code of ethics and expect members to follow all rules and regulations, including health testing. Proper health testing is an important component of responsible Labradoodle breeding. Because the Labradoodle is such a popular dog, many unscrupulous breeders will offer them for sale via websites, online ads, and in pet stores. Here are a few warning signs for puppy mill dogs: Avoid breeders who do not let you make on-site visits and will only ship their puppies to you or say they will show you one puppy at an off-site location. Be wary of any breeding operation that offers multiple breeds of dog for sale, especially if they are all trendy breeds or trendy mixed breeds. If a breeder says they have many litters of puppy available for immediate purchase, this is a sign that they are a puppy mill. Puppies on display in pet stores usually come from mills. First generation Labradoodles are not purebred, but Australian Labradoodles may be. However, neither kind are currently accepted by any of the main breed registries. The pros and cons of maintaining purebred pedigrees vs intentional mixed breeding are fiercely debated. Working with a breeder who is affiliated with an Australian Labradoodle association is the best way to ensure you are getting a quality dog. If you choose to get a first generation cross, look for a puppy from health tested parents, and which have been carefully socialized as puppies. What kind of Labradoodle do you have? Let un know in the comments box down below! Accessed June .February 20, Labradoodles are a mixed breed, which means that they are not AKC registered. The AKC only registers purebred dogs that follow the proper registration procedure. Labradoodles would not fall into this category. Therefore, they are not considered purebred and cannot be registered with the AKC. There are a few that take Labradoodles and register them. Many people seem to think that registering a dog provides more allowances than it does. To register a dog at the AKC, all you have to do is claim that both their parents are two dogs that are already registered under that breed. For instance, puppy mills may often have two dogs of the same breed in their facility. But, if both parents are AKC registered, they could very well claim any puppy they breed belongs to that breed simply by listing those two dogs as their parents. They could be completely unhealthy, and without any of the health testing that good breeders do. None of that matters. The only thing that matters is their family tree. In fact, there are many dogs out there that are registered to the AKC and rife with health problems. Just look at any Pug. Health checks are not performed for registration purposes. Do Labradoodles Have Pedigrees? While Labradoodles do not have registration papers, Labradoodles do still have a pedigree. One of the most important benefits of a pedigree is that it will let you know whether or not the puppy is inbred. Sadly, this occurs quite often with purebred dogs. In fact, that is how they make purebred dogs — by breeding a small group of dogs with similar traits together. Because Labradoodles are a mixed breed, this is less of a problem. Too much inbreeding can lead to serious health problems — and even temperament problems in some cases. Inbreeding is the main cause of many canine health problems. For the most part, this is mostly for those that are planning on breeding the dog, as it helps them avoid further inbreeding. Is a Labradoodle a Purebred? Labradoodles are a mix between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. There are different generations of Labradoodles, though. Puppies that are the result of breeding a Labrador Retriever and Poodle together directly are first-generation Labradoodles. However, if you breed two first-generation Labradoodles together, you end up with a second-generation Labradoodle. For the most part, there is little reason to focus heavily on the exact generation of Labradoodle your prospective puppy belongs to. There are other things that are far more important like health and temperament. However, later generations are more likely to exhibit all the common Labradoodle traits, while the first-generation puppies can technically inherit any trait from any parent. With that said, no matter how many generations you get, a Labradoodle is not counted as a purebred dog by any kennel club. While there is some chance that these dogs will develop into purebred in the future when dogs mostly come from later generations , that is not the case today. There is some confusion over what exactly a purebred dog is and what it means to own a purebred dog. Many people claim that purebred dogs are automatically better than mixed breeds. Purebred dogs are created when a group of dogs with certain traits is continuously bred together. Typically, this involves some level of inbreeding. Most purebred dogs were bred once upon a time for work of some sort. Therefore, these dogs usually have some level of working behaviors that can be difficult to handle for some people. For instance, purebred dogs that were bred to chase will chase — even if they have never been hunting in their life. Herding dogs will try to herd just about anything that moves. These dogs have innate instincts that just are. Furthermore, because most purebred dogs were inbred at some point, they are also more prone to health issues. After all, the negative health traits get concentrated when all of these dogs are bred together over and over again. In the end, it is sometimes impossible to find certain breeds without health problems, as it is sometimes built into their genetics just take a look at Pugs, for instance. However, purebred dogs do have very specific traits. This can be both a good thing and a bad thing. A Golden Retriever is always going to shed. Mixed breeds? Not so much. These dogs can technically inherit any trait from any parent. Therefore, mixed breeds can act like either parent and have any mixture of traits between them. You may not end up with a dog that sheds much, or your canine may shed a lot. Genetics are not set in stone, and we do not understand all of them thoroughly. Furthermore, these dogs are more likely to end up as pets since they would not be eligible for breeding. Therefore, those looking for companion animals are more likely to end up with dogs that differ a bit from the norm. Of course, for mixed breeds, there is no norm. Labradoodles may usually inherit certain traits, but that is far from certain. They can have several coat types, for instance. In reality, they are all quite different. In other words, purebred dogs have set traits. A Husky is a Husky is a Husky. However, you are giving up a bit for this predictability. For one, the dog is likely to have some sort of instincts that can be difficult to handle as a companion animal. Furthermore, they are more likely to have health problems since they are often produced through inbreeding. There are some advertisements online for registered Labradoodles. While most people assume that this means AKC registered Labradoodles, this typically is not the case in the least. Instead, they are usually registered through a different kennel club. There are quite a few different kennel clubs out there that will register mixed breed dogs. However, these agencies typically do not have very strict standards. The breeder usually simply requests that the dog be registered as a particular mixed breed, and then the kennel club registers the dog. Usually, they do not require any proof that the dog belongs to that specific mixed breed. Choosing a Labradoodle Breeder While an AKC registration is not something you should expect from a Labradoodle breeder , there are several other factors that you should look for. The large majority of breeders are not professionals. Instead, they simply breed two dogs together and then attempt to trade the puppies for money. Many of these breedings are accidents. When looking for a Labradoodle, you should look for a breeder that is knowledgeable and responsible. But, how do you determine this? Look for these basic factors: Both parents have a stable temperament. They should be friendly and polite. Nervous parents produce nervous puppies. Under no circumstances should the Labradoodle parents have a bite history or show any signs of aggression. Both parents are trained and taken care of. The puppies should stay with the mother for at least seven weeks. If the breeder is trying to sell puppies younger than that, you should be cautious about proceeding. The parents should have been tested for common health conditions. Many people skip this step with Labradoodles because they are a mixed breed, but it is still absolutely necessary. The parent dogs should be obviously healthy. Their coat and skin should be clean and soft. Their hair should be well-brushed. Ask the breeder to show you their teeth to ensure that they are white and strong. Bad teeth can be inherited. The breeder should preferably have already gotten the puppy their first shots before they are sent home. Most breeders will also take the puppies for at least one checkup. However, many breeders register them with other kennel clubs. A registered Labradoodle is not necessarily better than an unregistered one; it just means that the breeder paid extra money for a piece of paper. Health certificates and health tests that were run by vets are often more telling. For instance, always meet the parents if possible. They should be happy and healthy. 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. Unleash the real potential of your companion! 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dark golden retriever puppies for sale uk - Buying from backyard breeders and puppy mills is highly discouraged. On the other hand, when adopting a Malinois X, keep in mind that these dogs may exhibit difficulty or misbehavior. You can browse through their website and check out their currently available dogs. They have been breeding dogs for 18 years now. All their German Shepherds come from working backgrounds, so rest assured that their dogs are fantastic protection canines! Keystone Puppies — Keystone Puppies is a platform where breeders can put their puppies up for adoption. Visit their website to find Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix puppies. If you need more options, consider going through our guide on the best German Shepherd breeders and the best Belgian Malinois breeders. Some breeders on these lists also raise and sell Malinois X mixes! On the flip side, if you fancy adoption, below are some rescues where you might find German Malinois puppies for adoption: American Belgian Malinois Rescue — The American Belgian Malinois Rescue is dedicated to rehoming purebred and mixed Belgian Malinois. They are based in Stevens Point, Wisconsin. Check out their website right now, as they have available German Shepherd Malinois mix puppies all the time. Make sure you visit their webpage to know their adoption days and hours and contact information. Malinois X mixes are frequently found in this rescue, so keep an eye out! German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — This non-profit organization aims to save neglected purebred and mixed German Shepherds. In addition to these, look at our guide on the best German Shepherd rescues. For sure, many pet lovers will help you find the Malinois X of your dreams! There will be upsides and downsides to any pet, just like with the German Shepherd Malinois mixes. In this section, we will take a look at the pros and cons of owning a Malinois X. Hopefully, this will help you decide whether or not this hybrid dog is for you. Here are some advantages of owning a German Malinois: Highly intelligent: Thanks to its German Shepherd parent, the German Malinois is a bright, highly trainable dog. That is, of course, if you have already established yourself as a leader to them. Great guardian dogs: The Malinois X come from parent breeds that were originally trained as guards and herding dogs. Thus, the German Malinois mix has a reliable guard dog instinct! This is an excellent dog for busy people! On the other hand, owning a Malinois X is not all rainbows and sunshine. There are also some things that may be deal-breakers for you. Here are some disadvantages of owning a German Malinois: Can be aggressive: The German Malinois may show aggression against strangers or smaller animals. Socialize them early and put them through obedience training to minimize this tendency. It could often be difficult to trace the origin of each individual German Malinois. Frequent shedders: While they are relatively easy to maintain, German Malinois are still shedders. They are not suitable for people with allergies as they tend to shed moderately. Whether or not the pros outweigh the cons depends entirely on your lifestyle and preferences. That said, it is important to consider the aforementioned points carefully before getting a Malinois X. What do you call a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix? The easiest way to refer to this cross is Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix. However, these dogs can also be referred to as a Malinois X. Other names include German Malinois and Shepinois. The breed is thought to have been developed in the late s along with the Tervuren, the Groenendael and the Laekonois. They were developed by trainers and working competitors which perhaps explains why Belgian Malinois make great service and working dogs within our society. An ex-German military capital Max von Stephanitz set about attempting to create his perfect working dog. He encountered a dog named Hektor Linksrhein at a dog show in which left such an impression that he bought the dog immediately. He renamed Hektor to Horand von Grafrath, becoming the founder member of the dog breed. German Shepherds are often used by the military, police, drug detection and much more due to their high IQ, impressive obedience and ability to learn. German Shepherds have an identical height range of 22 to 26 inches but they usually weigh a little more between 49 and 88 pounds. So we can deduce that a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix can grow to between 22 and 26 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 90 pounds. Their coat color is reflect of both breeds, with incorporating shades of black, brown, fawn, blue and white. A Malinois X should have a muzzle that is relatively long with a black nose. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will have a double coat which sheds. The German Malinois are athletic, good-natured loyal and protective, which are all personality traits that both Belgian Malinois and German Shepherds have. Belgian Malinois have an innate desire to protect their family members, which can make this hybrid a good family pet. However, Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix will require socialization and training from a young age. This gives you the best chance to have a happy, level-headed and well-balanced dog. Although there is no such thing as a per cent hypoallergenic dog, the American Kennel Club outlines that there are some breeds that shed less. Malinois X owners will be required to brush their dogs at least twice a week to remove debris and dead hair. This will help to maintain the health and quality of their coat. Most members of the cross breed will blow out their coats twice a year at the changing of the seasons. Belgian Malinois German Shepherd Mix exercise requirements German Malinois are high energy dogs, so owners will need to ensure their pet is getting sufficient exercise in order to prevent destructive or unwanted behaviour due to frustration. Dog walking service provider Wag recommend up to minutes a day for a Belgian Malinois German Shepherd mix. That equates to around 10 miles per week. German Shepherds, on the other hand, can live to between nine and 13 years. The average price of this mix can vary. Other Potential costs include dog food, pet insurance, grooming, vet trips and much more. You can inquire about the availability of this cross. Alternatively, you could contact Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd dedicated rescue organisations for further help. Belgian Malinois and German Shepherd Mix to follow on Instagram If you want to learn more about the cross breed, you can always head to social media to find out more. Dog owners will usually be quite forthcoming with advice and information to followers interested in learning more about the breed. Lifespan Sociability Like any dog, the cost for these pups can vary depending on the breeder and the pedigree of the puppy. Although this is not one of the most common hybrid dogs, there is always a chance that you will be able to provide a wonderful home for a dog in need. This is especially so in the case of any German Shepherd hybrid since they have been bred to be some of the most trainable, obedient dogs known today. The German Malinois can be trained much earlier in life than most other dog breeds. The German Malinois is a cross of two incredible obedient, level-headed dogs. It is because of these traits that their astounding intelligence manifests much earlier. Training can start with these pups much earlier than is typical. They have often completed house training as young as three months old. Many new owners appreciate this aspect of the breed when it comes to purchasing a new puppy. Both the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois are experienced police dogs. German Shepherds were first developed in the s by the Germans. They were bred with several different breeds to try and obtain the most trainable dog at that time. The result was successful, and the German Shepherd still stands out today as one of the most trainable dog breeds. Their temperament was another significant facet of their breeding. The goal was to have a level-headed dog that was obedient and protective. Since the beginning, their breeding may have changed their bone structure and stature slightly, but they still act similarly to the way that they were initially bred. They have become the second most popular dog breed in the U. The Belgian Malinois was bred at approximately the same time as the German Shepherd. The Belgian Malinois has a slightly more confusing timeline because their breed was first recognized as the Belgian Shepherd. Then, the breed was steadily split into three separate dog breeds, with the Belgian Malinois having a short coat and fawn coloring. Both dogs, especially since being imported to America, have been actively and consistently used in the police force. They have the perfect temperament for reliability, a balance of aggressiveness and obedience, and medium to large stature. The German Malinois has a high prey drive. Since both of the dogs involved in the parenting of the German Malinois were bred to be herding dogs, the German Malinois has the drive in their DNA. Watch out for their urge to herd beings smaller than themselves. It is a behavior that you can train out if they are primarily a family dog. If you have any cats, small mammals, or other smaller dogs, make sure the German Malinois is trained, so they know how to behave around these other animals. Unlike small puppies, most would not describe them as energetic dogs because they are also quite serious and controlled. To be content in their living situation, they must have plenty of space to run around in. Beyond their activity levels, they are highly intelligent dogs. Both the Belgian Malinois and the German Shepherd are incredibly smart, with the latter being ranked for intelligence right after the Poodle and the Border Collie. These pups have a strong desire to please their master or trainer, which is a large part of their acknowledged obedience. Occasionally, they exhibit more difficult tendencies in training, such as stubbornness or overexcitement. However, this is relatively rare and may signify a change in training style is needed. The German Malinois can be aloof toward new animals and humans. Their protective instinct is sometimes too strong for them to have the capacity to accept anything into their trust readily. This feature makes them an excellent guard dog and watchdog. Watch out for any unwanted aggressive behavior, particularly between two male dogs. Are These Dogs Good for Families? The reason for this is their heightened prey drive from years of being a herding dog. The German Shepherd side of them is generally good with kids, whereas the Belgian Malinois often is not as friendly, especially if they are pushed or pulled around. Keep a close eye on them around little kids. Due to their overall attitude concerning new animals and humans, it is best to get them accustomed to strangers by having them visit your home or go to the dog park. This will teach them how to act around others appropriately. Although these dogs are quite reserved, they are also social creatures. For the best behavior, it is good to adopt two at once, or at least another pup with these dogs. They need 3—4 cups of food each day. They should have a balanced diet to make sure that they are receiving plenty of nutrients and calories to sustain them. Instead, feed them two or three meals a day. Stick to feeding them during your mealtimes. They can snack a bit in the middle of the day. Make sure that they receive plenty of calcium each day to offset these issues for as long as possible. They need at least 45 minutes of highly engaging activity each day but prefer to receive a mixed amount of exercise for minutes every day. Keeping this in mind, German Malinois are not good dogs to keep in an apartment unless they can go out with you for most of the day. Paired with their high level of intelligence, they pick things up quickly and happily, with few repetitions. They have a high desire to please their trainer, especially if the trainer has positively established dominance. Training is an excellent time to do two things at once, such as working a training session into an agility course. They are quick, with fast reactions and a quicker mind. Either way, they do shed frequently and even more so during changes in the seasons, particularly into spring and autumn. They need to be brushed daily to reduce the amount of hair getting everywhere. Avoid bathing these dogs too often, as the water strips them from natural essential oils produced by their skin. To avoid dental issues, brush their teeth every day. Since the German Shepherd is known to have many spinal and joint issues, it is best to verify. Minor Conditions. It is a cross between the German Shepherd and the Belgian Malinois. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. She has the intelligence and loyalty of a Belgian Malinois. She already knows how to sit and lie down, and can walk off the leash. Piper is one of the greatest dogs we have owned. She gets a long with our cats and my young nieces. This is definitely a breed that needs to be brought up with children in order for them to have a good temperament with them. She is loyal and very protective, yet sociable once warmed up to people. She will remain petite, which she got from her dad, the Malinois. She is currently 35lbs and will mature no more than 10 more pounds. She has a double coat and medium-long hair, no shedding though. Still has her puppy hair, especially behind her ears. She loves the water and the snow, and has a very willing temperament. This is a great mix to own as they are a low maintenance and easy keeper. The only problem with her right now is she had a breakout of mange on her muzzle which the vet said is normal and is treatable. It is common to appear on pups around 6 months in age. This is a picture of her under my desk at work. His dad is a German Shepherd and his mom is a Belgian Malinois. We've never had a Mal before but we have had a GSD. He loves everyone. He's wary of new people. He loves our .Our GSD was my momma's boy. Rhemy can't pick a favorite! It's really sweet that he loves my husband as much as me! Tracked himself home on a walk at 3 months old! In the first picture I sent he was about 4 months old, in this picture he is now 4 years old!! Super smart and a real lover boy. Look at that beautiful face!! He came from a breeder in Cream Ridge, NJ. She said he was a "breeder mistake," but we think he is just perfect!! He is a real clown and loves to lounge on this blanket. He is 4 months old in this picture and is a real face washer!! She has exceptional intelligence. She understands sit, lie down, shake, speak and high-five by both verbal command and hand signals. We're still working on several other commands, of which 'stay' seems to be the hardest. At .She must constantly have something to chew on , otherwise she will shred anything within reach in record time, so rawhide chewbones are a necessity. She also replaced my broken paper shredder. Her herding instincts are very strong and will chase anything that moves, including a leaf blowing across the yard, butterflies, birds, etc. She has a variety of toys, but prefers the stuffed animal ones that squeak or make noise. She loves to play tug-of-war with her toys, be chased and chase you. Her love of water and mud puddles is exceptional and if you have a walk-in shower, don't leave the door open with the water running! She amuses herself by playing with her toys when left alone, but if someone is around, she has to be with them. When she needs to go out, she will find someone and lick their hand kisses until they take her out, otherwise she will lick and nip at your toes and heels to get you moving. She's very alert and will bark and growl at anything unfamiliar as long as she is standing behind your legs. Her worst fault is that if she is out in the open, she does not want to come when you call her. She wants you to come after her and just as you get within reach, she bolts off like a jackrabbit, and there's no catching her. We've learned the best way to get her attention is to ignore her and walk off like we're leaving her. The other fault is her constant attempts to get your attention to play with her, especially if you're trying to get ready for work. She waits until you get one leg into your jeans and then grabs the other, making you hop around on one leg trying to get the other pants leg back. As you pull on a sock, she either grabs the end and pulls it off, or she takes off with the other one so you'll have to chase her down. After you've gone through this same scenario with the shoes, she then follows you around pulling the laces to untie them or pulls back the Velcro straps. Her antics are limitless as is her energy level. The positives include intelligence, determination, and loyalty. At the same time, German Malinois can be standoffish, potential to be aggressive, and less suited for young children, much like the Belgian Malinois. With this in mind, you need to weigh whether or not a German Malinois is right for you very carefully. If you are debating getting this unique breed, keep reading. In this article, we help you decide if this dog is right for you, or if you should opt for a less energetic dog. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. German Malinois Puppies Image Credit: Alina Ziabrieva, Shutterstock German Malinois puppies are known for their intelligence and trainability, making them a popular choice for those looking for a highly active and intelligent companion. German Malinois puppies are full of energy and require plenty of physical and mental stimulation to help them reach their full potential. Early socialization is crucial to help them develop into confident, well-rounded dogs. In terms of appearance, German Malinois puppies can resemble either parent breed, and their coat color and pattern can vary. They typically have a muscular and athletic build, with a medium-length, dense coat that requires regular grooming. Feeding a high-quality diet and providing plenty of exercise will help them grow into healthy, active dogs. With proper care and attention, German Malinois puppies can grow into loyal, loving companions that form strong bonds with their owners. German Malinois is not suitable for many homes, especially homes with young children. These dogs are also not great for homes that already have other pets. Are These Dogs Good for Families? German Malinois tend to take after the Belgian Malinois, making them a bit more aggressive, but their temperament can be unpredictable. This is why socialization at a young age is important. Some German Malinois can be less tolerant of young children due to their intense herding and hunting instincts. At the same time, other German Malinois take after the German Shepherds, making them relatively calm and tolerant around young children. Because this breed is unpredictable and their tendencies are not shown until they are adults, it is best to avoid getting a German Malinois if you are considering having children or already have young children. Older children will be fine with this breed since German Malinois get along just fine with adults. Although certain German Malinois can be okay with children and other family members, most are not compatible with other pets. Their herding and hunting tendencies mean that they want to herd or hunt small animals, including cats. With other dogs, they can be aggressive and incredibly territorial. This is especially true if both dogs are males and were not introduced to one another at a very young age. For these reasons, a German Malinois is best as the sole pet in the household. Its high energy means that it is best suited for homes with large yards and people who are very active. For this reason, you should feed your German Malinois about 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day. Select a dog food specifically for large dogs and dogs of its specific age group. This breed has a high activity level, meaning they need about 14 miles of walking a week and minutes of playtime a day. Incorporating mental activities into their playtime can make a huge difference. For example, playing fetch, retrieving, and tracking can be a great choice for keeping your German Malinois active. If you are unable to commit to minutes of playtime a day, do not get a German Malinois. This breed needs a whole lot of activity. If you do not exercise it properly, the dog can become mischievous and bored, making you an irresponsible dog owner. The best way to train a German Malinois is by using positive reinforcement but having a strong and firm voice at the same time. By integrating positive reinforcement with a firm voice, the German Malinois will start to listen since you show the dog you mean business. Since this breed is eager to please, using the right technique can make training a breeze. These dogs have coarse fur and shed. This dog breed often develops too much earwax, leading to infections and other ear issues. Cleaning out the earwax frequently will prevent these issues from occurring. As a result, German Malinois are really healthy too. These dogs can live quite a few years and live so healthily. Providing your German Malinois with proper exercise, food, and grooming will help prevent the most common health conditions for this breed. Minor Conditions. We chose the Shepinois name for it's simplicity. But they are truly the best of both breeds. They typically have the physical characteristics of the Malinois, they tend to be flat coated with a fawn or mahogany coloring with a a dark overlay. The weight for a female is typically pounds and a male is pds. They have the extreme good health and orthopedics of the malinois as well. They have the athleticism of the Malinois, but not the extreme drive. They are good natured and have the general disposition of a German shepherd. They tend to be a little more level headed like the German shepherd. They are not as overly active as the malinois and they are much easier to live with as a house pet. They make for an excellent family dog and companion, but also a great protection dog or competition dog. They are a loyal and devoted companion. They are good with children; they do well with other animals. They are very affectionate and love to be the center of attention. They thrive in a family environment and are very protective of their home and family. They love to travel and be a part of any activity that involves their family. They are very quick to pick up anything and tend to train at the level of a malinois. They are more like the malinois in their training ability and pick up any type of training very quickly. They also have the tenacity of the malinois and can work for long periods of time without becoming winded. They need daily exercise not only to stay healthy, but to burn off energy. The Shepinois needs exercise daily, not just once a week. The Shepinois is quick to alert you of any strangers or visitors making them excellent, loyal Protection dog. We feel that the overall genetics behind both breeds in very important to making sure this cross turns out the best of both breeds, although the malinois breed does not tend to have hip and elbow problems, we still do the hip and elbow certification on all of our dogs and by doing so we hope to continue to produce the best quality of both breeds as well as this new cross. At Camelot Shepherds we believe in orthopedic soundness, solid nerve and overall temperament. We want your family companion to live a long and healthy life and to bring you many years of love and dedication. Here are some pictures of the previous Shepinois puppies: About.
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dark golden retriever puppies for sale uk - All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Print The dreaded 3-month-old puppy I really enjoy young puppies. Seven- to week-old puppies can be so much fun and while they can be trouble, it is easy to contain them. But when a puppy turns weeks-old…. Three-month-old puppies start feeling good about themselves. They think they have the world all figured out and they will get into everything and run circles around you, even after being scolded or punished. Here is what you need to know about training your week-old Labrador puppy. About this series of posts This is post five of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba at 12 weeks old Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week five home Bubba should have been named Spunky because she is a handful. She runs around our home with her head and tail high, like she is all that. She pulls our shoes out of the organizer, chews on closet doors and digs and splashes in her water dish. So is the life of a 3-month-old Lab puppy. Patience is required to raise young lab pups. They will give you a run for the money. Even the well-behaved ones. No one escapes the terror of the 3-month-old Lab. So, how can you survive this time. Firm and well-defined boundaries that are enforced endlessly. Now is not the time to give up on training your puppy. It is the time to buckle down and show your puppy that there are rules and boundaries, and they must be obeyed. You puppy can and will learn the rules if you are firm and consistent in your corrections. Whatever you do, do not allow the puppy to do whatever it wants with no corrections. That is not being a good puppy mama or dad and it is really not fair to the dog, because training will require much more pressure and correction when the dog is bigger and stronger. Here are the things we worked on this week for training of Bubba. Crate training Bubba is now completely at home in her crate. She remains in her crate a full 4-hours at a time without accidents, is quiet while in there and walks into her crate on a KENNEL command from feet in front of the crate. Bubba will come to me when called, even when she knows that she is going into the crate. While there are still some consistency issues to work on, Bubba is well crate trained at this point. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking is such a difficult job. You will have periods when the puppy is doing so well that you will think you are done. And then, when you least expect it, your puppy will have an accident right in front of you. Bubba has been good at housebreaking. She has had less than a half-dozen accidents in the house and all of them pee accidents. She has never pooped in the house. So, we thought she was pretty much house broke. Then suddenly, she just up and peed right on the dog bed. Housebreaking is always an ongoing process, and we know that over time the accidents will become less and less. Looking for more information on housebreaking? Obedience training your week-old puppy With any dog training, obedience is key! She will SIT on command about 90 percent of the time. The only time we really have issues is when there is a lot of distractions. That is normal for a puppy of her age, but that does not mean that we just allow her to be disobedient when there are distractions. Rather, we look for distractions and then train through them. This is very important because you do not want your dog to just be obedient when everything is calm. You want, even need, your puppy to be obedient when the everyday distractions happen. HERE command As I have already stated, twelve-week-old puppies are cute, but they can also be little terrors. This is the age when they start to get very independent. With that independence comes the desire to run away from you, run around you, play keep-a-way and just generally terrorize your life. We get lots of calls from owners of puppies this age. They all want to know if we can take their dog now for training instead of at the usual months of age that we usually require for hunting dog training. This is very hard, even for professional trainers. But that is almost always a mistake since Bubba will decide to make a game out of not coming to us. Getting your puppy to come to you There are some techniques to help with this matter. Sometimes this is a good time to start treat-training your dog on HERE. This is a short-term fix that we will not continue for long, but it can sometimes help to get us through the next month or two. Labs are almost always driven by food, so it can help you get a better response to the HERE command. You can also have the dog drag a long check cord. The check cord gives you something to grab onto if the dog tries to make a game of coming to you, but you must be careful since the lead can get caught on something and injure your dog. Remember that each time you say HERE, you need to pull your puppy towards you. You need to associate the HERE command with coming towards you. You need your puppy to understand that coming to you is a good thing. That is why treats can help with this. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. Last week we introduced Bubba to water and got her swimming. Since then, she has been swimming a couple more times and she is very comfortable retrieving in the water. We also introduced her to decoys on land. Introduction to live birds This week we introduced Bubba to a live bird. We do this using a pigeon with the flight feathers pulled out. The pigeon can walk around and flap its wings, but it cannot fly. We ultimately would love to see the puppy chase down the bird, grab it in their mouth and bring it to us or at least prance around with it a bit. For some dogs, this can take a bit of encouragement the first time. But generally, once the puppy grabs hold of the bird, we see their whole demeanor change. This was the case for Bubba. Once Bubba picked up the pigeon, she pranced around the yard with her tail high and a spring in her step. She was so excited and proud of herself. This is a great response. Introduction to gun fire As I stated in last weeks post, we do not want to rush the introduction to gunfire. We have never had a dog we have raised and trained become gun shy and that is because we introduce gunfire is a very slow and painfully methodical way. The first step is that the dog or puppy is in a box on our dog trailer. While in this box, our other dogs are getting marks in the field. The gunners for these marks are anywhere from yards away from the dog trailer and they are using primers or starter pistols. The puppy is hearing these shots, but they are a long way away and are muted by being in the dog trailer. Our puppies hear these shots for weeks, or months before they ever hear anything closer. This is our first introduction to gun fire. Bubba was exposed to this last week and will be every week for a while before we move anything closer to her. Learn more about introducing your dog to gunfire. Continuation of assistant marks Bubba will continue to get assistant marks most days from now until she is done her training. The marks will continue to increase in distance and complexity but all our marking scenarios for our afternoon sessions involved gunners out in the field throwing marks for Bubba. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy You are really in the thick of it if your puppy is around the week mark. The next month or two will likely be the most challenging of your time raising a Labrador puppy. That will make obedience training easier and faster, but that is still a bit of a ways out. Hang in there and push through. Keep your commands and corrections firm and consistent and you will make progress with your puppy. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Training your week-old Labrador puppy? Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.