french bulldog puppies clearwater fl

Both of these proven, top working bloodlines have reliably and consistently produced quality working dogs! Very few breeders have these honors, especially in North America. Thank you for taking such care in your program that you can provide such an animal as this one. Rebekkah A lovely young Sapphire Shepherds female with owner, enjoying each other's company on the farm. Nov we take the tracking exam! He's an amazing dog, I am very grateful for you pairing us together. C" A multi generation bred dog from Sapphire Shepherds. This website documents our history of involvement in this beloved breed. We are blessed to have a long history of top representatives of Working German Shepherds grace our lives. Please reach out to Ramona with questions and thank you for your visit! This kennel name was chosen as Ramona grew up in the foothills of the beautiful Sapphire Mountain range in Montana. Sapphire is a gemstone associated with royalty. It is believed to attract abundance, blessings, good fortune and gifts. It has been used to protect against negative energies, bring calmness, strength and spiritual clarity. The below image of Sapphire Shepherds business logo was designed by Ramona. It incorporates her photo of Xurk of Sapphire Mountain, a male who is a work of art inside and out. We are very happy to speak or correspond with you about our German Shepherds via phone, email and allow appointments to view dogs on premises. We are not members of, nor do we post on forums and we are not on social media. But we found them to be reliable. So, in the rest of the article, we tell you what is unique about each and how you can contact them to learn more about their adoptable German Shepherds. Keep reading! Below are the details of what we found to be the best GSD rescues in the state. Rescued puppies and adult dogs go through a professional evaluation to determine their social skills and temperament. They then go through training to make them adoptable. Adoption Process and Contacts The adoption process at the Rescue commences with completing an adoption application. The approval of the application initiates the screening process. Screening an adopter involves an introductory phone call, a vet and personal references check, and a virtual home visit. Besides, you can visit the Rescue headquarters at Missoula, MT, , or email [email protected] for any inquiries. The Center is dedicated to sheltering abandoned dogs and cats in a caring, humane environment. The Center was constructed in and took its name after the donors who worked with other volunteers at the Animal Foundation of Great Falls to create a modern Center. From the onset, the adoption Center has worked to promote a community that values the welfare of animals. By educating and training the community, personnel at the Center strive to create a strong and lasting bond between humans and animals. The Center provides safe shelter, care, and fun for needy dogs and cats, with the hope that they can find a loving and lasting home someday. You could also donate or gift free services through one of these ways: Becoming a foster or volunteer. Making donations. You can do this for a specific cause and with naming rights. Sponsoring an animal. Adopting an animal. Attend a meet-and-greet once your application is accepted. If you have any queries about the adoption process, you can talk to an adoption counselor at .The Humane Society rescues and rehabilitates animals for adoption by working with communities of the Northwest Montana region. In addition to providing shelter and adoption services for abandoned animals, the Center runs other community services. These services are geared toward educating adults, students, and children on animal welfare and safety. Besides, they have other services that support pet owners in the community, including: An Injured Animal Fund that helps low-income pet owners pay vet expenses. A low-cost Microchip Clinic. A Pet Food Assistance Program that distributes pet food to needy families and animal rescues and shelters in the area. Wait for the Rescue personnel to assess your application and schedule an adoption date for you. Attend the adoption meeting to sign the adoption agreement and bring home your new furry friend. You could also post mail to Kalispell, MT , or email [email protected]. Where a German Shepherd Dog Club is hard to find, joining an all-breed club can connect you with other breed lovers and provide reliable info on GSD rescues. We recommend the Gallatin Dog Club in Bozeman. You can visit their website here. Helpful German Shepherd Articles If you just want to learn more about the amazing German Shepherd breed, our website has a wealth of resources that will help you become a better owner and build a stronger bond with your furry friend. Our articles offer valuable insights into topics such as nutrition, exercise, grooming, and behavior.

The information in the above list is provided courtesy of dogtime. Can Bulldogs Have Rawhide Bones? No cooked bones and now bones bought from the store. Maybe you can give your dog rawhide bones then? Unfortunately, the answer is, again, no. Dogs have been known to contract and suffer from Salmonella and E. Coli after chewing on rawhide bones. In addition, rawhide bones often contain gelatin, artificial sweeteners, and other additives and preservatives. These ingredients can be toxic to your dog. Rawhide bones have led to digestion problems, blockages, and cancer. All of this being said, your dog will in all likelihood not die if you give them a store bought bone or a rawhide bone to chew on. Although there are more dangers in presenting these bones to your dog versus presenting them with a raw bone, the dog bones that you can find in the store have to go through screening processes to make sure that they are safe. The best option, however, is still a raw bone or a raw recreational bone. Health Benefits of Chewing on Bones Chewing on bones is instinctual for dogs. They are a historically predatory species, and it is in their nature to gnaw on bones. Setting aside any physical health gains, a dog chewing on a bone is a happy dog. Bones are great sources of calcium and phosphorous, as well as a plenitude of other beneficial minerals that your dog needs in order to remain healthy and active. Chewing on bones strengthens stomach muscles, prevents bloating, and helps with bowel movements. Dangers to Watch Out for When Chewing Bones The biggest danger in letting your dog chew on a bone is the potential for the bone splintering and your dog ingesting a piece of the bone. While bigger dogs may be able to swallow a small piece of bone without batting an eye, smaller dogs can choke. However, even if your dog is quite large, swallowing a piece of bone can cause digestive issues. This is why small bones and cooked bones are such a problem because they have a higher likely hood of splintering when your dog chews on it. Make sure that your dog is chewing a bone that is proportional to their size. A large dog chewing a small bone can end up swallowing the bone and choking. Likewise, a small dog chewing a big bone can injure their teeth or jaw. A dog, especially a smaller breed of dog, can break one or more of its teeth chewing on a hard bone. Their teeth will be tender and more vulnerable to cracking or breaking. Do not give your dog a bone if they suffer from pancreatitis. The marrow in bones is high in fat, which can lead to diarrhea or a flare up in your dog. Watch to make sure that the bone does not splinter or that your dog does not swallow the bone whole. Give your dog a bone after they have already eaten their meal, as they are less likely to chew too vigorously when they are full. Once the bone becomes worn down, throw it out. Once a bone has become weak, it is more likely to splinter and cause damage. You need to know your dog and know how they eat. If you know that your dog is a particularly violent eater, then perhaps it is not the best idea to give them a bone that might break under pressure. Give your dog a bone that is longer than the length of their muzzle, as that makes it impossible for them to swallow the bone and choke. When the bone is cut, it becomes weaker and will break more easily. Bully Sticks are made out of one ingredient: beef muscle, meaning they are digestible and tasty. They are much easier to digest than rawhide and carry the additional benefit of not being full of chemicals, gelatin, or additives. If your dog is a particularly violent chewer, then you can even buy a braided Bully Stick that will last longer. There are also Bully Sticks made in fun patterns to stimulate your dog mentally while they chew. The only downside to using Bully Sticks in place of bones is that you lose the calcium and phosphorous that you get from bones. However, Bully Sticks are a very good alternative to bones if you are looking for one. You can buy them on Amazon here. Additional Questions Can dogs eat chicken bones? Dogs can eat chicken read Can Bulldogs Eat Chicken? Raw vs. Cooked and chicken bones, as long as they are raw and the bone is not too small for your dog breed. Cooked chicken bones will splinter and can injure your dog, and big dogs can end up swallowing small chicken bones. However, chicken bones can be quite beneficial to the health of your dog. Post Views: 1, Mostly, this toy is ideal for French Bulldogs that need to chew on something a bit firmer than a rubber toy. We like that Bullibone is made and packaged in the USA. This faux bone has a beef flavor throughout, which can help encourage chewing on the correct item—a major plus with a puppy in the house. What to Look for in a Good Toy for French Bulldogs French Bulldogs can drool a lot, so we prefer toys that can be wiped down or thrown in the dishwasher. You also want to remember that the blunt nose of a Frenchie makes their breather more labored than some dog breeds. Durable rubber or nylon toys can be excellent because a lot of Frenchies love to lay down and gnaw for a while. French Bulldogs are not the quintessential frisbee dog. Keep toys that can be rolled along the ground or tossed low, as this is how most Frenchies prefer to play, and they can keep this up a bit longer without getting winded. We love a decent ball or round roller-shaped toy for a French Bulldog. That means finding non-toxic rubber or nylon is crucial. Pin 11 Shares Rawhide is an incredibly popular dog chew that can go a long way to stopping your favorite Frenchie from chewing on items around the home that you would rather they keep out of their mouths. These topics have risen to the fore in recent years, with some people now saying rawhide is dangerous for dogs. Read on to find out the reasons why we no longer let our French Bulldog eat rawhide, and what you should do if your Frenchie has swallowed the bones. Can French Bulldogs have rawhide bones? French Bulldogs can have rawhide bones, but there are risks of choking and digestive blockages if the rawhide is swallowed. Rawhide can also produce allergic reactions in some Frenchies, and there are small risks of toxic contamination in the bones too. Millions of dogs the world over chew rawhide on a daily basis, so in terms of risks, they are very small. To do that, you should weigh up the risks versus the benefits and then make your own choice. However, there was one thing that I read which made my mind up for me a few months ago. It was on a Facebook post from a vet who was discussing whether rawhide safe for French bulldogs. They then run the risk of swallowing. Sometimes that can be completely accidental, just with one breath being taken. Once the French Bulldog swallows the chewed rawhide bone it can obstruct the airway, sometimes leading to a fatality. But is rawhide really safe for French Bulldogs? While the risks are rather low, there are still some safety hazards that come with these treats; including choking hazards, bacterial infections, digestive irritation, and even allergies. The risks and dangers of rawhide to Frenchies Unfortunately, there are always going to be risks with dogs putting anything in their mouths. Whilst it is impossible and unhealthy to keep them from chewing, there are ways to make sure that your dog is safe and healthy. Here are the three main risks associated with rawhide bone chewing that I have since researched online. Choking hazard Unlike bone and other hard things that dogs find to chew on, rawhide is designed to soften up as it is chewed. However, an overzealous Frenchie can literally bite off more than they can chew. The larger the piece of rawhide that your dog bites off, the harder it can be to swallow and can result in it getting caught in the oesophagus or digestive tract. While sometimes a blockage can be removed by a vet, it can require expensive and stressful surgery with unresolved blockages even posing a risk of death. There are several ways to help stop your French Bulldog from choking on rawhide. This include separating it from other dogs to stop it from eating too fast to avoid competition , supervising them when they are eating it, and taking the rawhide away from them once it is small enough for them to swallow whole. When taking any treat away from your dog, it is important that you exchange it for another toy or treat, as this stops them from becoming possessive over their treats in the future which can lead to biting and jumping up. Bacteria and contamination Because rawhide is made of meat mainly dried animal skin , they can suffer from the same kind of bacterial contamination as all other kinds of food, including Salmonella and E. There is the small risk that your Frenchie could suffer a bacterial infection. To prevent this, make sure the rawhide you buy is made within the country you reside in. That way you increase the chances that it is fresh and follows high safety standards. However, because Salmonella and E. Coli, as well as other bacteria, can also affect humans, it is recommended that you keep the rawhide away from any food preparation areas. Also make sure to wash your hands after handling the rawhide. In simple terms, some dogs have allergies to rawhide. My French Bulldog swallowed rawhide… Disclaimer: I am not a vet. All the opinion here is based on online research and my own personal views. If you are in any way concerned, you should use your own common sense. Soft and chewed up rawhide should in most cases digest and break down in their stomach eventually. Symptoms to watch out for If your dog shows any of these symptoms, take the rawhide away and speak to your vet: Gagging and repeated swallowing Sudden loss of appetite or weight loss Regurgitation or vomiting Lack of energy or any sudden change in temperament or behavior Fever Signs of pain If your Frenchie is showing any of these signs even if they have not had any rawhide it is always recommended that you take them to see a vet as soon as possible. If you leave any symptoms unresolved or unchecked, this can lead to further issues and even the possibility of death. How to keep them safe Always make sure that you supervise your Frenchie when they are chewing on rawhide or a similar chew. You will then be aware of how much of it they are swallowing and if they are in any difficulty. The general rule of thumb with anything related to your dog is: ask your vet. Like with human health, Googling an answer will only get you so far. The benefits of rawhide to Frenchies For complete impartiality, I also wanted to share with you some of the benefits of chewing rawhide. As I explained earlier, whilst there are risks, they are probably very small given how many dogs have this treat each day. There is a reason they are so popular with dogs and dog owners alike. Chewing is a natural instinct for all dogs, especially Frenchies; acting as a stress and anxiety reliever that helps to keep your dog calm on quiet days in between walks, as well as exercising their powerful jaw muscles. You may not realize it, but dental hygiene is not just important for you, but also for your dog. Foul breath can be a sign of poor dental hygiene, including cavities, tooth rot, and even gum disease, all of which can cost you a lot in vets bills to put right as well as causing stress and discomfort for your dog. Gum disease is actually 5 times more common in dogs than it is in humans. However, it has also been proven that dogs that chew on rawhide, bones, and toys have less plague build up on their teeth see some recommended toys , with the chewing helping dislodge food from their teeth before it can settle. In terms of entertainment, restless dogs often find relief in chewing on your favorite pair of shoes or an expensive piece of furniture; but a rawhide or other dog chew provides a far tastier alternative that keeps them from spoiling your belongings. If you are unsure what kind of rawhide to get your French Bulldog, asking the owner of your local pet store can prove a fountain of knowledge, they know their main clientele better than anyone and usually have the right product for all sizes of dog. Related questions What can I give my French Bulldog instead of rawhide? If you are worried about your Frenchie having rawhide, or if they have had issues with it in the past, then there are many rawhide alternatives available for you. Can you give French Bulldogs rawhide to eat? There are hundreds of dog chews on the market, each with their own health-benefits, flavors and ingredients. It is best to shop around, see what is best for your dog and if they enjoy it. However, I have put a list together of my recommended Frenchie teething and chew toys. Take a look at that to see which rawhide alternatives are popular right now. Every dog is different, so testing out a variety can go a long way. Always check the calorie content and sugars, so you know how many to give your dog and how often, so that they remain healthy. Frozen carrots are a peculiar alternative, but they are a great choice especially for teething puppies although be sure to wash them before freezing, and make sure that they are full-sized rather than baby carrots, as they are a choking hazard. Bully sticks are made of beef, are highly digestible and also help with oral health, but they do contain more calories than rawhide. Is rawhide digestible? Rawhide is mainly made of the inner layer of animal skin, often from a cow or horse, meaning that they are designed to be fully edible. Most rawhide will be easily digested and pass through the dog without any issues. However, as mentioned above, larger pieces can get caught in the digestive tract so it is recommended that you make sure you supervise your French Bulldog when it has a rawhide so that you are aware of how much it is chewing. When the rawhide gets small enough for it to fit entirely inside its mouth and potentially be swallowed whole, take the rawhide away in exchange for another treat or toy. What chews are safe for Frenchies? The dog-chew market is enormous, with all different kinds of chews available to you including edible chews, rubber chews, and rope chews. However, harder and inedible chews may be the route to go, but always be sure to keep an eye on them if they do have an edible chew. Handy Hint: Take a look at my recommended Frenchie gear pages to see what toys and chews we recommend. Bones may seem to be the classic choice, but before you throw whatever leftovers you have at your hound, do your research first. Cooked bones, poultry bones, and pork bones should NOT be given to your dog, as the bones can splinter and create dangerous shards that can cause damage and be a major choking hazard. After it has had it for about ten minutes, take it away and store it in the refrigerator to keep it fresh for tomorrow. However, it is best to dispose of it after a few days, to prevent bacterial contamination, and also keep it away from other raw meat and food. If you are ever unsure of what to give your dog, speak to your vet. What age can Frenchie puppies have rawhide? Puppies typically begin teething around 12 to 16 weeks old, so before that a rawhide will probably not really do much for them. Again, as with all dogs, keep an eye on your puppy when they are eating the rawhide and always take it away once it is small enough for them to swallow. If your puppy is taking larger bites, perhaps consider a softer option to prevent choking. Conclusion If your Frenchie likes to bite off large chunks of treats, or even just has a history of digestive issues or diarrhea, then I would not recommend you let them have rawhide. If you are unsure of what kind of treat is safe to give your dog, talk to your vet or local pet store and tell them what kind of dog you have as well as their size and any issues they may have had with chewable treats in the past. Ultimately though, the choice is yours. We made a decision to not give our French Bulldog rawhide anymore. Are you currently looking for the best chew bones for your French bulldog? If so, you have come to the right place! This article will give you some great tips for choosing one. Chew bones are a good thing for a French bulldog. They help keep their teeth clean and maintain good dental health. Here we provide you with our best chew bones for French Bulldogs, which make it easy to choose the one that suits your unique needs. Dogs love to chew! As a matter of fact, French Bulldog owners tend to have lots of fun by letting their French bulldogs chew on chewing treats, which can help keep their teeth clean. But what are the best chew bones for French Bulldogs? Having different types of bones in your home will also help keep things interesting for him which is always good! The Benebone Wishbone is the perfect solution! Made with tough material, these chew toys can last for weeks, even with aggressive chewers. The curved design of the Wishbone makes it easy for your pup to grip and start chewing. You can even place this chew toy in the freezer to provide added relief during teething. With its textured design, it promotes healthy chewing habits and helps reduce plaque and tartar buildup as your pup chews. So, if you want to give your pup a comfortable and healthy chewing experience, get them this puppy chew toy today! With its one-size-fits-all design, this chew toy is suitable for every type of dog. Not only will your pup love the delicious flavor, but it also helps improve their dental hygiene, keeping them healthy. The Bullibone Nylon Dog Chew Toy is made from a strong nylon material that can withstand tough chewers and last for a long time. It really depends on the dog, since they all have different preferences. To determine what is the best, we recommend familiarizing yourself with what makes a chew toy good in general. There are a few factors that you should look at when you consider the best chew bones for French Bulldogs. You will want to first take into consideration if the product that you get is safe for your pet to consume.

There is a lot of talk about black Boxers dogs; some potential puppy buyers will actively seek out this colored puppy, but their searching is in vain. It may be hard to believe it when you see photos, but black boxers do not exist — the color gene responsible for black coat color does not exist within the breed. Brindle is a pattern of color, it is a striping effect. With most brindle Boxers, the dark stripes are clearly over a fawn background. However, with Boxer dogs that appear to have a black coat, this is due to super heavy reserve brindling. In fact, it can be so dark and so thick, that you cannot see any fawn beneath it. This gives the dog a very dark coat that does indeed appear to be black. Here, we'll go into the facts a bit more to talk about why black cannot exist with the breed and some myths are swirl about regarding this perceived coat color. Why Colors are Misinterpreted It is very easy to see a dog and immediately assume that he is a certain color, based on what your eyes are telling you. However, with some breeds, the Boxer included, you must take a second look. It is sometimes only when you realize how brindle can cause an effect of sorts, that makes a first impression of black, that it starts to make sense. In addition, some Boxers are given the term of black; however, in many cases, this is a shortened term that comes from longer 'black brindle'. The base color of all purebred Boxers is fawn. Brindles are actually fawn with a brindle marking. Those markings are made of a pattern for fur consisting of black striping which covers the fawn… Sometimes just a bit lightly brindled and sometimes a lot a heavily brindled dog. A black Boxer with white flash? Your eyes are playing tricks on you. This pup is super dark reverse brindle with white markings. Cassandra, 5 months old Photo couresty of Christopher Many wonder if perhaps there were black Boxers that were mostly bred out of the lines and that perhaps now and again a dog with a black coat shows up somewhere. However, if we look to the record keeping of the past century, we can see that this is not the case. In this year time period, a black Boxer appeared once, however there is a catch to this. In the Germany, in the late 's a Boxer was paired with a mixed dog that was part Bulldog and part Schnauzer. The resulting litter had puppies that had black coats. Since another breed was introduced into the bloodline, they were not purebreds. These dogs were not used for any further breeding and therefore did not have any influence on genetics going forward. Once in a while there will be a breeder that claims to have black Boxers and will point to this one incident long ago as evidence that black does indeed run in the bloodline. However, since those mixed dogs with black coats were never used for any sort of develop program this simply does not hold true. Another element that shows that this coloring does not exist in the Boxer line is the rule that the Munich Boxer Club created in .This group had stringent control over breeding and development of Boxers in Germany and set the guidelines for the standard, conformation and all elements regarding appearance including coloring. This group did not wish for any experimenting to be done that would introduce the color black and for this reason they made a clear rule that black Boxers would not be accepted. Some make the argument that programs may have ignored this ruling and still attempted to breed black Boxers. However it would have not been in their best interest to do so and additionally, any resulting dogs would have not been part of the Munich Boxer Club since they couldn't have been registered there. This means that any such hypothetical dogs could not have genetically been included in the Boxer's bloodline since they would have been barred from any programs that were developing and perfecting the breed. So, now that we know: This color does not exist in the line The only record of any black Boxer in the last century was a mixed dog and not a purebred Guidelines and strict rules of of the club in Munich that was the foundation of today's Boxers clearly excluded black Boxers.And it is also fair to say: The chance of there being some odd, rare gene mutation that brings black into the coat is extraordinarily rare; mathematically the odds are so low that this can be ruled out Black Boxer puppies cannot be born due to a hidden gene; this is because black is dominant over all other colors. It cannot be recessive, it always comes out over others Why are some people still adamant that this coloring exists? Diesel, at 2 years old Photo courtesy of Brittany Calvert This leads us to the conclusion of only two possibilities in this regard: A 'true' black Boxer simply cannot be a purebred. It is assumed that in this case, it would be done to sell the pups at a higher cost. Some elements to ponder.Their registration papers do not have that color code as an option. Therefore, even if someone verbally dubs a Boxer to have a black coat, the dog - if registered with a recognized club - would officially be another color; and that would most likely be brindle. Since the pup would be handed over to new owners with papers stating he was not black, how can they simultaneously claim to have black Boxer dogs? And this of course, is very unethical. In Summary Every being whether it is a mammal, like a dog, human, etc. These genes determine everything about the being, from skin color to the number legs to where the eyes are.Genes control coat color in dogs, too. In order for a dog to be black, that breed of dog must contain the gene for having a black coat. Boxer dogs do not have that gene. So, there cannot be any black Boxer dogs. It is genetically impossible. A Boxer that is black, or true black with brown points, for example, MUST be a mixed breed or a heavily brindled dog. Conclusion There is a lot of talk about black boxer dogs; some potential puppy buyers will actively seek out this colorful puppy, but their search is in vain. It may be hard to believe when you see pictures, but black Boxers do not exist! The color gene responsible for the black coat color does not exist within the breed. If you "see" a black Boxer, if he is a purebred Boxer, he must be a very dark tiger. In this case, what happens is that the animal is tiger - yes, with the same stripes that the tiger has. In the "black" boxer these stripes are so dark that it is almost impossible to see them with the naked eye. Because of this, many believe that this breed has black dogs, but genetically, they are tiger boxers. This gives the dog a very dark coat that, in fact, appears to be black. Here, we'll get into the facts a little more to talk about why black cannot exist with the breed and some myths regarding this perceived coat color. Why Colors are Misinterpreted It is very easy to see a dog and immediately assume it is a certain color based on what its eyes are telling you. However, with some breeds, the Boxer included, you should take a second look. Sometimes it's only when you realize how tigerish can cause an effect, that it makes a first impression of black, that it starts to make sense. Also, some boxers are given the term black; however, in many cases, this is a shorthand term that comes from "tiger black". Boxer Puppy Black Brindle The base color of all purebred Boxers is fawn a coloration between brown and yellow. Brindles are actually fawns with a brindle marking. These markings are made of a coat pattern consisting of black stripes covering the fawn.Black Boxer Coloring History Many wonder if perhaps there were black boxers who were largely bred off the lines and that maybe once in a while a dog in a black coat would show up somewhere. However, if we look at the record keeping of the last century, you can see that this is not the case. In this year period, a black Boxer has appeared once, but there is a problem with that. The resulting litter had puppies that had black coats. Once another breed was introduced into the lineage, they were not purebreds. These dogs were not used for any further breeding and therefore had no influence on the genetics hereafter. Once in a while there will be a breeder who claims to have black Boxers and will point to this long ago incident as evidence that black really does run in the bloodline. However, since these mixed dogs with black coats have never been used for any kind of development program, this is simply not true. Another element that shows that this coloration does not exist in the Boxer line is the rule that the Munich Boxer Club created in .This group had a strict control over the breeding and development of Boxers in Germany and established the guidelines for the standard, conformation and all appearance-related elements, including coloration. Some argue that the shows may have ignored this decision and still attempted to breed black Boxers. However, it would not have been in their interest to do so, and furthermore, the resulting dogs would not have been part of the Munich Club, as they could not have been registered there. This means that any of these hypothetical dogs could not have been genetically included in the Boxer lineage, as they would have been barred from any program that was developing and perfecting the breed. So, now that we know: This color does not exist in the line; The only record of any black Boxer in the last century was a mixed-breed dog, not a purebred; Strict guidelines and rules of the club in Munich, which was the basis of today Boxers clearly excluded black Boxers.And it's also fair to say: The chance that there is some strange and rare genetic mutation that brings black to the coat is extraordinarily rare; mathematically the chances are so low that this can be ruled out; Black Boxer puppies cannot be born due to a hidden gene; this is because black is dominant over all other colors. It cannot be recessive, it always comes out of the others. Why are some people still convinced that this coloration exists? This leads us to the conclusion of only two possibilities in this regard: A 'true' black Boxer simply cannot be a purebred, there must be another breed in the lineage; The Boxer is not black and is actually a very spotted dog or a reverse brindle; What about the breeders who claim to have massive blacks? It is always possible that some very inexperienced breeders who have a litter of dark puppies will simply call them black dogs; An unethical breeder may purposely be misleading to appear to have 'special' dogs that are 'rare'. It is assumed that in this case it would be done to sell the puppies at a higher cost. Some Elements to Consider Any puppy that is sold and verbally deemed to be a black Boxer cannot be registered as such. Here in Brazil there is still no regulation about it, but the international rules say a lot about it. Black Boxer Puppies Their registration documents do not have that color code as an option, so even if someone verbally nominates a Boxer to have a black coat, the dog - if registered with a recognized club - would officially be another color; and that would likely be brindle. Since the puppy would be given to new owners with documents saying he was not black, how can they claim to have black Boxer dogs? Keeping the above in mind, if a Boxer showed up with registration papers that showed he had a black coat, those papers would need to come from some little known club that was not reputable or the papers would have to be forged. And that, of course, is very unethical. Conclusion Every being be it a mammal, a dog, a human being, etc. Those genes determine everything about the being, from skin color to the number of legs to where the eyes are.Genes control coat color in dogs too. For a dog to be black, that breed of dog must contain the gene to have a black coat. Boxer dogs don't have that gene. So there can be no black Boxer dog, it's genetically impossible. A Boxer that is black, or true black with brown dots, for example, must be a mixed breed or a heavily spotted dog.

Prospective owners are sometimes shocked to learn that straight hair Goldendoodles exist! Goldendoodles with straight hair, sometimes called flat coat Goldendoodles, are often the subject of a lot of confusion. Is there anything wrong with them? Keep reading to get all your questions answered about this unique Goldendoodle coat texture! Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? While not as common as wavy or curly coats, Goldendoodles can have straight hair! As a mixed breed dog, Goldendoodles will take on some qualities of both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Naturally, some Goldendoodles will have a flat coat like the Golden Retriever and some will have a curlier coat similar to the Poodle. Breeders often strive to produce Goldendoodle puppies with curly coats, as they tend to be more allergy-friendly and have a lower potential for shedding. Photo courtesy of archiebgolden on Instagram. Are Goldendoodles Always Curly? Goldendoodle coat types can range from curly, to wavy, to completely straight. While there are plenty of straight hair Goldendoodles out there, curly coats are definitely more common in this breed. What coat type a Goldendoodle puppy has depends entirely on the DNA passed on from their parents. Straight hair comes from the Golden Retriever side and curly hair comes from the Poodle side. Photo courtesy of boopitsremy on Instagram. What is a Flat Coat Goldendoodle? A flat coat Goldendoodle is a term used to describe Goldendoodles with straight hair that lack furnishings. Whether or not a Goldendoodle has a flat coat is based on if they have furnishings. See how the one on the left has a more scruffy, teddy-bear look? Just like humans inherit traits from their parents, so do Goldendoodles! Coat texture is one example of a trait that can be passed along from either parent breed. Coat texture can differ not only between litters of puppies but between individual puppies from the same litter! In any given litter of Goldendoodles, some puppies may have flat coats while others have curly or wavy hair. Responsible breeders take great care to select dogs from well-known bloodlines and perform extensive genetic testing prior to breeding. This not not only reduces the likelihood of genetic health issues in Goldendoodles , but it can help increase the chances of a low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat. Breeders sometimes say that straight haired Goldendoodles have an improper coat. Photo courtesy of presleydoo on Instagram. This number indicates how far removed from the initial pairing of two purebred dogs a litter is. Still confused? The generations most likely to result in a straight hair Goldendoodle are F1 or F2 since they both contain the highest percentages of Golden Retriever DNA. Alternatively, you may find a breeder that backcrosses a Goldendoodle to a Golden Retriever resulting in puppies even more likely to have a flat coat. However, this is extremely rare to come across. Most people are hoping for a curly haired Goldendoodle. Are Straight Hair Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Straight hair Goldendoodles will NOT be hypoallergenic. Photo courtesy of remdog. Do Straight Coat Goldendoodles Shed? Straight coat Goldendoodles will usually shed moderately. The good news is that with the right knowledge and tools, Goldendoodle shedding can be effectively managed! It all starts with a healthy diet, frequent brushing and bathing, and using the proper equipment. Straight-haired Goldendoodle puppies take after the luxurious straight coat of their Golden Retriever parent. This is because they have more dominant Golden Retriever genes. On the other hand, curly-haired Goldendoodles have physical characteristics similar to their Poodle parents. So, how do Goldendoodle puppies develop straight hair , and what factors warrant this trait? Although the Goldendoodle inherits traits from both a Golden Retriever and a Poodle; no two puppies will develop identical characteristics. This is because each of the puppies will take after the dominant gene of the parent wired in their DNA. A cute Goldendoodle puppy waits for a treat Generations Other than genetics, the generations of crossbreed preceding a particular Goldendoodle puppy and the generation the puppy belongs to also determine its coat type. F1 Goldendoodles are the first-generation Goldendoodle puppies whose line comprises a purebred Poodle and Golden Retriever. In this case, the pup will inherit half of its genetic makeup from a Poodle and the other half from a Golden Retriever. F1B Goldendoodle puppies, on the other hand, come from one purebred Poodle and one F1 Goldendoodle parent. If you want the curlier and teddy bear looks of most Goldendoodles, then look for puppies with the F1B genes. If you adopted or bought an F2 Goldendoodle puppy, you should know that this gene strain is a cross between two Goldendoodle parents. The only difference of this strain is that they are the most unpredictable in terms of coat type, which means that their offspring can have the double gene of a Golden Retriever and can develop the straight and flat coat of a straight-haired Goldendoodle. At the same, they can also be bred by crossing a purebred Poodle to F2 Goldendoodle parents. This would mean that F2B Goldendoodle Puppies have .Because there is more Poodle in the genes of these tots, chances are puppies that have the F2B gene will come out curlier and have a higher degree of physical resemblance to the Poodle. Moyen Goldendoodles are smaller than Standard Goldendoodles, and larger than Miniatures. Grooming A Flat Coat Because of their straighter hair, flat-coated Goldendoodles are often confused with Golden Retrievers, and for good reasons. However, straight-haired Goldendoodles will often have shaggier manes than their Golden Retriever ancestors. As far as grooming goes, straight-haired Goldendoodle would need brushing as well with the use of a pin or a slicker brush every few times a week. This brushing will keep their coat from being tangled, while the occasional use of a grooming mitt could keep their coat looking and feeling shiny. Flat Coat Maintenance There are many benefits to owning a Goldendoodle with straight hair. First, their hair or coat is less likely to mat than their curlier-haired siblings, so they would require less maintenance. For dog owners who like more fun and minor cosmetic care for a dog, the straight-haired Goldendoodle is ideal. Another advantage to a straight-haired Goldendoodle is that leaves, dust, and other debris are less likely to catch on their mane, unlike wavy or curly-haired Goldendoodles. Goldendoodles with a flat coat would only need a bath once they start to smell, and this will solely depend on the environment they are living in or whether or not they are potty trained. All in all, the grooming that flat-coated Goldendoodle dogs and puppies require is very minimal and depends on the occasion. This is the perfect dog for families with a busy schedule but still would love to have a dog to play with and care for. A cute dog having a bath. Keep that smell under control! Do Flat-Coat Goldendoodles Shed? There are many benefits to a flat-coated Goldendoodle; however, there are also downsides to this adorable mixed breed compared to its other cousins, the wavy or the curly-haired Goldendoodles. The first is that the flat-coat Goldendoodle sheds more fur than its counterparts, the wavy and curly-haired Goldendoodles. This is because, genetically, a flat coat Goldendoodle is less Poodle than a Golden Retriever. The good news is, for lovers of Golden Retrievers who are allergic to the breed because of the amount of hair they tend to shed, the flat-coated Goldendoodle is a great option. It has the intelligence of the Golden Retriever but comes without the shedding! As Flat Coat Goldendoodles shed more, they are less hypoallergenic. There is a happy middle ground, but no dog breed can completely be hypoallergenic. This is the case for the breed Goldendoodle , which has the advantage of shedding less. Another fact to know is that dog hair is not what people are allergic to but the dander or the skin cells and saliva. It is correlated because dogs who shed more hair or fur also tend to shed more dander. A Goldendoodle looking up and tongue out. The most straightforward and surefire way to know what coat your Goldendoodle puppy will have once fully grown is by checking the hair around its mouth. A Goldendoodle puppy will grow a curly coat if the hair around its mouth is tight, curly, or kinky. In contrast, a wavy-haired Goldendoodle will have wavy hair once it matures if its hair is wavy around the mouth with loose curls. Straight-haired Goldendoodle are characterized by their short and straight hair on their face and around their mouth as a puppy. A red Goldendoodle puppy. A Goldendoodle is also known as a Groodle. Their size is not fixed and depends on their parents. They come in three sizes—miniature, medium, and standard. Goldendoodles are highly sociable and can live in a country or city setting. Just make sure that they go on walks for 20 to 30 minutes every day to get their daily dose of exercise. Although they need proper socialization to avoid aggressive or shy behavior, Goldendoodles are highly trainable. Aside from being an all-around excellent house dog, the Goldendoodle is also great as a working dog—they work as guide, service, therapy, and sniffer dogs. You are sure to find one trusty companion in a Goldendoodle. A tongue out Goldendoodle with a bandana. Goldendoodle Coat Types Many people desire Goldendoodles because of their health and temperament. However, this mixed breed is also preferred because of its little-to-no-shedding and hypoallergenic status, which is essential for dog lovers who are allergic or sensitive to shedding. A Goldendoodle puppy will develop one of three coats once grown—wavy, curly, or straight. Coats will depend on the genes the Goldendoodle has inherited from its parents. Keep reading to discover more about each potential Goldendoodle coat. Wavy Goldendoodle Coat The shaggy or wavy coat is the most common one. To get this kind of coat, the pup should have inherited one curl gene and one non-curl gene from its parents. Goldendoodles with this coat type will have hair on their body that grows anywhere from 4 to 7 inches or 10 to 18 centimeters if left ungroomed. In contrast, the hair around the face will typically be shorter. The wavy-coated Goldendoodle is low shedding but would still require regular brushing and grooming to prevent knots from developing in their fur. Maintaining them will be effortless just as long as the owner keeps brushing their coat at least once a week. Wavy coat Goldendoodles are typically low shedding. Curly Goldendoodle Coat The curly-haired Goldendoodle has the densest hair type. A curly coat develops when both the parents have the curly gene. These Goldendoodles take more on the Poodle side of their lineage. They are the non-shedding ones of the bunch and are more or less allergy-friendly; this is a plus for all sensitive dog lovers since curly-haired Goldendoodle can have really kinky curls or big barrel curls. Owners who live by the beach should be wary of sand getting caught in the curly fur of this dog. In terms of grooming, regular brushing once or twice a week will prevent knotting, while hair trimming twice or thrice a year will be all it needs. A Goldendoodle lie down on the couch. Straight Goldendoodle Coat [Flat Coat] The straight coat of a straight-haired Goldendoodle is most often called a loose hair coat. While the curly-haired Goldendoodle takes most from the Poodle line of parents, the straight-haired Goldendoodle takes more from the Golden Retriever line. Although the straight furs on these fur babies mean that they are generally low maintenance, this fur type makes them the top shedders among all Goldendoodles. This can be bad news for Goldendoodle lovers who are sensitive to dog hair. Straight-haired Goldendoodles require low maintenance but still need brushing like their other siblings. Brushing will prevent problems like knotting and premature shedding, especially if the Goldendoodle is wearing a dog collar. A Goldendoodle sitting on the grass. Final Thoughts That concludes our Goldendoodle guide, and we hope that you learned a lot from it. Just remember the basics of reading the hair on the sides of the mouth of a Goldendoodle puppy, and you will know what strain of mixed-breed you have as it enters adolescence. Flat-coat Goldendoodles will be more prone to shedding fur, sure, but they make up for it by needing less maintenance than their cousins. In contrast to the teddy bear likeness of a curly or wavy-haired Goldendoodle, the flat-coat Goldendoodle will have smoother and shaggier fur, which is also cute in itself. Whatever the genetic strain of the Goldendoodle, the owner must keep in mind that whether or not their dog looks like a bear, in the end, Goldendoodles will love their owners just the same. And this adorable breed definitely deserves to be loved back. 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. Breeds The link has been copied! Get ready to fall in love with the Straight Hair Goldendoodle - they are sure to bring a smile to your face and endless joy to your life! The Straight Hair Goldendoodle is a delightful and joyous breed that has captured the hearts of many. With their cheerful disposition, friendly personality and unique appearance, these dogs are the epitome of love, happiness and fun. They are a perfect blend of their Golden Retriever and Poodle parents , and have the best qualities of both breeds. Their straight hair adds a touch of elegance and grace, making them stand out in a crowd. These dogs are intelligent, playful, and affectionate, making them ideal family pets. Straight Hair Goldendoodle It's a common trait for this breed and is a result of their Poodle genes. The flat coat is low-shedding and low-maintenance, making it a popular choice for those with allergies or who don't want to spend a lot of time grooming their pet. However, it's important to note that the coat may require regular trims to maintain its shape and keep it looking neat. Whether a flat coat is good or bad is subjective and ultimately depends on individual preferences and needs. The important thing is to ensure the dog is healthy and well-cared for, regardless of its coat type. Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? Yes, Goldendoodles can have straight hair. Goldendoodles are a crossbreed of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, and the coat type of each individual dog will depend on the dominant genes it inherits from its parents. Some Goldendoodles have curly hair, which is typical of Poodles, while others have wavy or straight hair, which is more typical of Golden Retrievers. Are Goldendoodles Always Curly? No, Goldendoodles are not always curly haired. The coat can range from loose waves to tight ringlets and everything in between. It's important to note that the coat may change as the dog grows older and that regular grooming may be necessary to maintain the desired appearance of the coat. What Is a Flat Coat Goldendoodle? The "Flat Coat" refers to the coat type, which is less curly and wavier than other Goldendoodle coat types. This breed is known for being friendly, intelligent, and having a low-shedding coat. The Flat Coat Goldendoodle is a popular choice for families due to their friendly and affectionate nature. They are often described as sociable, outgoing and gentle dogs, making them great companions for children and adults alike. They are also highly trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, making them a great choice for first-time dog owners or those looking for a well-behaved pet. It's important to note that as a hybrid breed, the temperament and appearance of a Flat Coat Goldendoodle can vary widely, with traits from both parent breeds appearing in different combinations. This is why it's important to meet the individual dog and their parents before adoption to ensure a good match for your household. Goldendoodles with straight hair are relatively rare compared to their more curly-coated counterparts. This is because the curly coat is a dominant trait in Poodles, which is one of the breeds used to create the Goldendoodle. While some Goldendoodles may have a straighter coat, it is not a common or consistent characteristic of the breed. It's important to keep in mind that Goldendoodles can have a range of coat types, including wavy, curly, and even corded, and the coat type can vary even within the same litter. The coat type of a Goldendoodle is largely determined by the genes they inherit from their parents. When looking for a Goldendoodle with a straight coat, it may be helpful to work with a reputable breeder who can provide information about the coat type of the individual dog and their parents. However, it's also important to keep in mind that coat type should not be the only factor considered when choosing a Goldendoodle, as temperament and personality are just as important in determining if a dog will be a good fit for your household. The coat type of a Goldendoodle, including the flat coat, can vary widely depending on the specific genes that the dog inherits from its parents. However, it's generally believed that the coat type of a Goldendoodle can be influenced by the generation of the cross. F1 Goldendoodles , which are first generation crosses between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle, tend to have a wider range of coat types and textures, including flat coats. F1B Goldendoodles, which are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle and a Poodle, tend to have curlier coats due to the higher proportion of Poodle genes. It's important to keep in mind that the coat type of a Goldendoodle can be influenced by many factors, and that there is a great deal of variation within each generation. In general, the coat type of a Goldendoodle is largely determined by the genes that the dog inherits from its parents. When choosing a Goldendoodle, it's important to meet the individual dog and their parents to get a better idea of what coat type to expect. Are Straight Hair Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Goldendoodles, including those with straight hair, are often marketed as being hypoallergenic due to their Poodle heritage. However, it's important to note that no dog is truly hypoallergenic. All dogs produce dander, which is a major cause of allergies in some people, and some dogs also produce a protein in their saliva that can cause an allergic reaction. The idea that Poodles are hypoallergenic is based on the belief that their curly coat is less likely to shed and produce dander compared to other breeds. While this may be true to some extent, the coat type of a Goldendoodle, including straight hair, can still produce dander and trigger allergies in sensitive individuals. If you have allergies and are considering getting a Goldendoodle, it's recommended to spend time with the individual dog to see if they trigger your allergies before making a decision to adopt. Additionally, it may be helpful to work with a reputable breeder who can provide information about the health and temperament of the individual dog and their parents. Do Straight Coat Goldendoodles Shed? Yes, straight coat Goldendoodles can shed, just like any other breed of dog. While the Poodle, one of the breeds used to create the Goldendoodle, is known for having a low-shedding coat, the shedding of a Goldendoodle can vary depending on the genes they inherit from their parents. Goldendoodles with a straighter coat may shed more than those with a curly coat due to the hair being more loosely attached to the skin. However, the shedding can still be minimal compared to many other breeds of dogs, especially if they inherit more of the Poodle's low-shedding genes. It's important to keep in mind that all dogs shed to some extent, and that the amount of shedding can vary even within the same litter. When choosing a Goldendoodle, it may be helpful to spend time with the individual dog and their parents to get a better idea of their shedding tendencies. Additionally, regular grooming and brushing can help minimize shedding and keep the coat looking healthy and shiny. Yes, it is possible for F1b Goldendoodles to have straight hair, although it is not as common as the curly or wavy coats. F1b Goldendoodles are a cross between an F1 Goldendoodle Golden Retriever x Poodle and a Poodle, and as a result, they tend to have a higher proportion of Poodle genes and a curlier coat. However, coat type is determined by a complex interaction of genes and is not a guaranteed characteristic of a specific generation of Goldendoodle. While F1b Goldendoodles are often bred for their curly coats, some individuals may have a straighter coat due to the influence of other genes. Additionally, the coat type of a F1b Goldendoodle can vary even within the same litter. How Maintenance And Grooming Differs The maintenance and grooming requirements for a straight coat Goldendoodle may differ from those with curly or wavy coats. The amount and frequency of grooming needed can also vary depending on the individual dog's hair length, thickness, and rate of growth. Wavy Coat Maintenance Wavy coat Goldendoodles typically require more maintenance compared to those with straight coats, but less than those with curly coats. Wavy coat Goldendoodles need to be brushed regularly, at least once or twice a week, to prevent matting and tangling of the hair. A slicker brush or comb is a useful tool for removing loose hair and distributing natural oils throughout the coat. It's also important to avoid over-bathing a wavy coat Goldendoodle, as this can strip the coat of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and frizzy. When bathing is necessary, it's recommended to use a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo to keep the coat soft and shiny. Wavy coat Goldendoodles may also benefit from regular grooming sessions with a professional groomer to keep the coat in good condition and maintain its shape. These sessions can include trimming, shaping, and clipping to maintain the desired length and style of the hair. Curly Coat Maintenance Curly coat Goldendoodles require frequent brushing, at least once or twice a week, to prevent their fur from matting and tangling. This is because of their high maintenance coat and the fact that its length, thickness, and rate of growth can vary from dog to dog. For the best results, it's advised to use a slicker brush or comb to remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat. It's also important to limit the amount of baths for a curly coat Goldendoodle, as this can strip away the natural oils and make their fur dry and frizzy. If a bath is necessary, opt for a gentle, moisturizing dog shampoo to keep the coat soft and shiny. In addition to regular brushing, regular grooming sessions with a professional groomer can help to maintain the shape of the hair and keep it looking its best. These sessions may include trimming, shaping, and clipping. Finally, it's important not to brush a curly coat Goldendoodle's hair when it's wet, as this can cause matting and tangling. Instead, use a wide-tooth comb to detangle the hair and retain its beautiful curls. Straight Coat Maintenance Straight coat Goldendoodles typically require less grooming and maintenance compared to their curly or wavy coat counterparts. However, it's still important to keep their coats in good condition by brushing them regularly. A weekly brushing with a slicker brush or comb can help remove loose hair and distribute natural oils throughout the coat, keeping it shiny and healthy. This simple grooming routine will also prevent matting and tangling, which can be a problem for straight coated breeds. While trimming is not necessary for all straight coated Goldendoodles, some individuals may benefit from a regular trim to maintain the length and shape of their hair. This can be done by a professional groomer or with the help of clippers or scissors at home. It's also important to avoid over-bathing a straight coat Goldendoodle, as this can strip the coat of its natural oils and cause it to become dry and brittle. A straight coat Goldendoodle can make a great pet for many different families and individuals. Some reasons why you may want to consider getting a straight coat Goldendoodle include: Lower grooming needs: Straight coat Goldendoodles typically require less grooming and maintenance compared to their curly or wavy coat counterparts, making them a good choice for those who don't want to spend a lot of time and money on grooming. Minimal shedding: Goldendoodles are known for being low shedding dogs, and straight coated individuals are no exception. This can be a great benefit for those with allergies or who are looking for a pet that won't leave hair all over their furniture. Easy to care for: Straight coat Goldendoodles are relatively low maintenance, making them a good choice for busy families or individuals who want a pet that is easy to care for. Affectionate and playful: Goldendoodles are known for being affectionate and playful dogs, and straight coat individuals are no exception. They can make great companions and family pets for those who enjoy spending time with their pets. Ultimately, whether a straight coat Goldendoodle is the right choice for you will depend on your lifestyle, preferences, and individual needs. It's important to research the breed thoroughly and consider all factors before making a decision to ensure you find the right pet for you. Conclusion Straight Coat Goldendoodles are a unique and versatile breed that can make great pets for families and individuals looking for a low maintenance and low shedding pet. These dogs typically have lower grooming needs compared to their curly or wavy coat counterparts and are known for being affectionate, playful, and easy to care for. However, it's important to keep in mind that the needs and personality of each individual dog can vary, and thorough research and careful consideration is necessary to ensure you find the right pet for you. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. The Goldendoodle breed is generally known for its curly and wavy hair. It can be pretty surprising to discover a Goldendoodle with a flat coat. You can click here to get answers to common questions about flat coat Goldendoodles. A straight hair Goldendoodle is more like a golden retriever with a beard, mustache, and a typical Goldendoodle look. But what are the situations where a Goldendoodle gets a flat coat? In the case of F1 or first-generation Goldendoodle puppies, one purebred golden retriever parent and one purebred poodle parent are bred together. Therefore, puppies inherit 50 percent of their genetic composition from each parent. As a result, while some F1 Goldendoodles may get the curly coat of the poodle parent, others may have a flat, straight coat resembling a golden retriever. If the dogs are 2nd generation or F2 Goldendoodles, there are also substantial chances of acquiring straight hair or a flat coat. You can also try to find a breeder who backcrosses Goldendoodles with golden retrievers, which is rare. Genetics Despite having the qualities of both golden retrievers and poodles, no two Goldendoodle puppies will grow up with the same traits. This is because each puppy will inherit the dominant gene of the parent that gets imprinted into their DNA. Standard poodles are usually the source of the Cu locus gene in Goldendoodles. At five to seven months, they often begin to shed their coats and develop their adult coats. You may see changes in color fading at an early age. Even darker Goldendoodle puppies may lose some of their colors and become lighter as they age. And depending on the genes, a puppy will get flat or curly hair. Adult and puppy coats differ primarily in texture. In contrast, you can frequently see flat coats in F2 or F2b litters. Flat-coated doodles are less frequent because most Goldendoodle puppy buyers prefer the characteristic curly-coated doodle appearance. It is quite possible that if you see an adult doodle with a flat coat, you might not even recognize it as a Goldendoodle. You may consider it a golden retriever because of its appearance. These are more uncommon types of Goldendoodle. Genetic testing is the only way to tell with percent certainty which coat genes a pup has inherited. Apart from that, there are a few signs you can check. Looking at the hair around their mouth is a great way to predict the coat your puppy will have in adulthood. The last thing is to ask the breeder or kennel where you bought the puppy. Your puppy will have tightly curled hair around his mouth if he is likely to have a curly coat. Puppies with straight coats have short, straight hair around their mouths. How Do Maintenance and Grooming Differ? There are many benefits to maintaining and grooming a flat coat Goldendoodle. Below we have enclosed the grooming difference between flap, curly, and wavy Goldendoodles. READ - Labradoodle vs. Wavy Coat The most common and popular coat type in Goldendoodles is a shaggy and wavy coat. This coat has a fuzzy appearance and requires minor maintenance of all three types. You must frequently brush your furry companion to remove stray hairs and mats to keep its coat healthy and tangle-free. Such types of coats have low to no shedding. Curly Coat Your puppy will probably have a tight, curled coat if he generally resembles the poodle parent. As a result, you can have long barrel ringlets or tight, kinky poodle curls. It would be best if you did regular grooming for Goldendoodle dogs to prevent their coat from matting. Though a flat coat is easy to maintain, it sheds more than usual. The upside of this is that you will save time and money on grooming and maintenance. Furthermore, brush them a few times weekly to keep their coat beautiful. You can best schedule a bath accordingly. Downsides of a Flat Coat Goldendoodle Though getting a flat coat Goldendoodle puppy has many benefits, it also has some downsides. Shedding The main drawback of flat coat Goldendoodles is that they tend to shed more than curly and wavy Goldendoodles. This happens because the straight-haired Goldendoodle has a lower proportion of poodle DNA in its genetic makeup than the other two types. However, one thing to note is that flat-coat Goldendoodles still shed less than purebred golden retrievers do. So if you are planning to buy a flat coat Goldendoodle puppy, be ready for lots of hair on your floors and beds. You should set a regular brushing schedule, use the right kind of shampoo, give them balanced food, and utilize supplements as needed. Less Hypoallergenic Since flat coat Goldendoodles shed more, it goes without saying that they will be less hypoallergenic. The main reason is that they are more genetically similar to golden retrievers than poodles. A puppy is hypoallergenic if he has the qualities of a non-shedding and curly coat. Both are absent in flat coat Goldendoodles. The dander, a mixture of expelled skin cells and saliva, causes the allergy. Dogs that shed a lot of hair also tend to shed more dander. It is easily manageable. Additionally, they frequently represent the most affordable generations. You can buy them at a lower price than curly and wavy Goldendoodles. You may occasionally overlook flat-coated puppies since many dog owners prefer allergy-friendly curly coats over flat coats. It does not tangle as easily as curly hair. Also, they are less prone to matting. Low Litter Selection Competition Most pet owners prefer curly and wavy coats, so it is an excellent option for you to pick a flat-coat Goldendoodle. Great Health and Temperament If you buy any puppy, ensure they are healthy and have a great temperament. Flat Goldendoodle puppies are considered healthy with a great temperament. You can even train them quickly. They are gentle, loyal, and understanding and make you smile with their funny actions. Conclusion Flat coat Goldendoodle puppies can be excellent pets for homes. So if you are thinking of adopting a flat coat Goldendoodle puppy, we think it is a great decision. We hope this guide has helped you learn everything about flat coat Goldendoodles. We have thoroughly discussed straight-hair Goldendoodles, including genetics, maintenance, grooming, and the downsides of the breed. We have also made things easy for you by providing information on the essential things you must look at before adopting a flat-coat Goldendoodle puppy. Flat Coat Goldendoodle Puppy, also known as Straight Hair Goldendoodles , have become a popular dog type because many dog enthusiasts like the flat coat or straight hair that resembles a Golden Retriever. It makes these furry friends look more like teddy bears. If you are looking for a friendly temperament, non-shedding, and hypoallergenic dog, this is one of the best options. With this, you will maximize your chances of selecting a Goldendoodle with a flat coat. This article will discuss everything you need to know about a flat Coat Goldendoodle. Keep reading to learn more. So, how will your Goldendoodle end up with a straight or flat coat? The absence of this gene means that your Goldendoodle will have straight hair or a flat coat. The gene usually prevents keratin from binding together structural components, which leads to a curly coat. Therefore, if your Goldendoodle does not have keratin in its genetic structure, it will have a straight or flat coat. A DNA test can help you determine whether or not your furry friend has the presence of this gene. Generally, most Goldendoodles tend to have a wavy coat and will not have flat or straight coats. They are a hybrid dog breed of the Poodle and the Golden Retriever and usually get a mix of the Cu Locus gene. If you are looking for a flat or straight coat Goldendoodle, then you need to consider a 1st generation Goldendoodle or F1 Goldendoodle. There are also high chances of getting straight hair or flat coat Goldendoodle if they are 2nd generation Goldendoodle or F2 Goldendoodle. Because most Goldendoodles are backcrossed bred with a Poodle to become non-shedding and more hypoallergenic, you will not need backcrossed Goldendoodles. If you want straight hair or a flat coat Goldendoodle, then you will need more Golden Retriever genetics. The coats are typically wavy to curly. F1BB Goldendoodle: .The coats are typically curly. The highest chance of straight hair or flat coat Goldendoodle F2B Goldendoodle: .F2BB Goldendoodle: .Multi-generation Goldendoodle or F3 Goldendoodle: Various generations of Goldendoodles breeding typically back crossbreeding to the Standard Poodle. You can also try to find a dog breeder that backcrosses Goldendoodles with Golden Retrievers. Goldendoodle Coat Changes Goldendoodle puppies also change their coats while reaching adulthood. They will mostly start shedding their coats at the age of 5 to 7 months and transition into adult coats. The transition can happen gradually over a few months or suddenly. In addition, darker-colored Goldendoodle puppies may also fade their color and become lighter as they mature. Generally, the difference between adult and puppy coats is mostly textural. While a puppy coat is usually thinner and softer, an adult Goldendoodle coat often has a thicker and stiffer texture. Some puppies may have curlier and straighter hair and grow into a different coat type once they are adults. Less Daily Grooming Keeping a flat coat or straight hair Goldendoodle looking good and healthy will take less effort and time. Straight hair is regarded as one of the easiest to manage. Therefore, you will not have to spend a lot of time grooming your furry friend. Lower Price The F2 and F1 generations produce the most Goldendoodles with flat coats or straight hair. Besides, they tend to be the cheapest generations available. Since many prospective dog owners prefer allergy-friendly curly coats, puppies with flat coats may sometimes be discounted. Less Competitive Litter Selection Since many upcoming Goldendoodle owners want wavy and curly coats, it is less important for you to have the first few picks of any litter. There are chances that any puppy with straight hair or a flat coat will be passed up until it is your turn. Less Frequent Haircuts The silver lining to a Goldendoodle shedding means that they will require haircuts less frequently. It is less prone to matting and does not knot as easily as curly hair. Less frequent haircuts mean that you will be able to save some money. Less Poodle-Like Appearance Many dog enthusiasts prefer the original Golden Retriever appearance that flat coat Goldendoodles often have. These puppies still from less shedding and hybrid vigor but still look like their purebred Golden Retriever. Downsides Of A Flat Coat Goldendoodle Although getting a flat coat Goldendoodle comes with several benefits, it also has a few downsides compared to a wavy to curly-haired Goldendoodle. This is because flatter coats have less Poodle genetics, thus making the puppy have a curlier coat. If you consider bringing home a flat coat Goldendoodle, be prepared to have hair than will shed on your floor. However, Golden Retrievers tend to shed more than the flat coat Goldendoodles. Less Hypoallergenic Generally, flat coat Goldendoodles tend to be less hypoallergenic. This is because they have more Golden Retriever genetics but less Poodle genetics. The hypoallergenic feature usually comes from the non-shedding and curly coat features. How Maintenance And Grooming Differs There is a difference in the maintenance and grooming requirements of straight and curly coat Goldendoodles. Wavy Coat The shaggy or wavy coat is the most common coat among the Goldendoodles. It has a shaggy appearance and requires the least maintenance of the three types of coats. To keep this coat in good health and tangle-free, you will have to brush your furry friend regularly to get rid of loose hair and mats. Curly Coat If your Goldendoodle takes mostly after its Poodle parent, it will likely have a tight curly coat. The length and tightness of the curls usually vary depending on the parents. Therefore, you can have tight and kinky Poodle curls or loose and long barrel ringlets. Goldendoodles with curly coats require regular grooming to prevent their hair from matting. This is why most doodle owners consider having their canine friends shaved close in order to create a maintenance-free style. Flat Coats The straight-coated or flat-coated Goldendoodles are often mistaken for Golden Retrievers. Flat coat Goldendoodles do not have the furnishings of their curly-coated counterparts. However, they tend to shed a lot more. The flat coat is easy to maintain and does not tend to mat. This makes it very popular with dog owners who may not want to take a lot of time grooming their furry friends. You will need to brush your pet with a slicker or pin brush several times a week and wipe it over with a grooming mitt. This will ensure that their coat looks good throughout. Besides, these adorable furry friends do not have hairy feet that you will have to inspect and comb every day. You should never have a flat coat Goldendoodle clipped or shaved. Your flat coat Goldendoodle will require a bath only when it develops the unpleasant doggy odor that most pets develop after a while. Also, a bath will be necessary if your furry friend decides to roll in something unspeakably nasty. Their coat texture may change as that Poodle and Golden Retriever gene combination battle it out in the dog. Conclusion You are now answered if you have been asking yourself what a flat coat Goldendoodle is. This adorable coat can be an excellent addition to any family. If you target a flat coat Goldendoodle, you will have to focus on either an F2 Goldendoodle or an F1 Goldendoodle. Sharing is caring! If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More A Goldendoodle with straight hair might have been a rare sight in the recent past, but they are gaining much recognition in Doodle circles. Just as adorable as their curly and wavy counterparts, Goldendoodles with straight hair sport a less Poodle-like look while also benefiting from a less demanding coat care regimen. Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? The Goldendoodle is probably one of the most popular hybrid breeds thanks to its amazing personality, loving nature , and hypoallergenic coat. As the Goldendoodle is a mix of the Golden Retriever and Poodle, the puppies will inherit their genetic makeup from both of the parents. Consequently, this gives us a wide range of estimates about how the Goldendoodle puppies might turn out. Some pups will inherit their looks and traits from the Poodle parent, while others take after the Golden Retriever parent. By combining the genetics of the Golden Retriever and Poodle, Goldendoodles can come in four coat types — curly, wavy, straight, and flat coat. This makes them the perfect choice for people who struggle with allergies. People often refer to straight coat Goldendoodles as flat-coated. However, not all straight coat Goldendoodles have flat coats. If straight coat Goldendoodles have fluffy beards, eyebrows, and ears, then flat coat pups have short and smooth facial hair. In fact, they look very much like the Golden Retriever parent. After all, the purpose was to create a breed that has many of the same qualities as the Golden Retriever, but with an allergy-friendly coat. Although breeders often prefer to produce curlier Goldendoodles, straight haired Goldendoodles can just as well happen. Naturally, a Goldendoodle is more likely to have a straight coat if their lineage includes equal parts of the purebred parents. So, why exactly do some Goldendoodles have straight hair? Genetics Whether a Goldendoodle has straight hair or a curly coat, the biggest key factor is their genetic makeup. Naturally, the outcome is never the same. Some puppies exhibit dominant Poodle genes, others have more dominant Golden Retriever genes. What determines if a Goldendoodle pup gets curly, wavy, or straight coat is the presence and amount of curl genes. Additionally, genetics also determine if a puppy can get a flat coat. Many Goldendoodle breeders do genetic testing on their parent pups to know what coat types can be achieved. However, keep in mind that not all breeders have their dogs DNA tested.

Share via Email Here in the United States, we love our pets! Dogs and cats are the most popular pets and data shows that a sizable chunk of households keep dogs. Golden retrievers are among the more popular breeds, as they are great, sweet, family-friendly dogs. Unfortunately, many Americans suffer from dog allergies. This leads to people who are allergic to dogs searching for so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds. Hypoallergenic dog breeds are advertised as not causing allergic reactions or greatly reducing allergic reactions in dogs. Are golden retrievers one of these hypoallergenic breeds? Read on to learn more! What Does Hypoallergenic Mean? Hypoallergenic means that something is unlikely to cause an allergic response. Often, when a dog breed is referred to as hypoallergenic, it means that a dog is less likely to cause a person with pet allergies to have a reaction. Is Hypoallergenic Really Even a Thing? Several popular dog breeds are called hypoallergenic, including poodles, bichon frises, Yorkshire terriers, and schnauzers. Do these popular dogs actually reduce allergic reactions? Unfortunately, no dog breed causes zero allergic responses. According to one study , there is a lack of data showing that so-called hypoallergenic dog breeds actually reduce allergic reactions. Every dog produces proteins in saliva and dead skin cells that cause allergies, so even hairless breeds can cause allergies. People with allergies to dogs are actually allergic to proteins made by the dog. There are several different dog proteins. Sometimes a person can be allergic to one kind of protein, but not others. There is research showing that this protein is only made by male dogs. If you are allergic to this protein, you can avoid it by adopting female dogs only. Sometimes it is difficult to know what proteins you are allergic to. There are a few things dog allergy sufferers should try to avoid. Saliva and urine, fur, dead skin flakes, and carpets and furniture covered with dog hair should all be avoided if possible. A large amount of dander and fur in your home is a common trigger. There are several things you can do so that you can keep your canine companion even though you have allergies. Try some of the following things to reduce your allergic responses: Use a high quality air filter in your home Conduct regular house cleaning sessions Vacuum regularly to get rid of pet hair Keep over-the-counter allergy medication on hand for allergic reactions Consider choosing a dog breed that sheds less Ask your doctor about getting allergy shots to reduce attacks Wash your dog frequently. Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic Dogs? So, are golden retrievers hypoallergenic? Unfortunately, no. In fact, golden retrievers have a double coat and typically shed twice yearly. More shedding means more fur and dander in your home, which means more allergy attacks for you if you have this breed. There are a few ways you can help reduce your allergies and still have one as a pet. Follow this advice if you are allergic to golden retrievers: 1. Make sure you bath the dog regularly Bathing helps get rid of dead skin cells 2. Keep him groomed and brushed regularly 3. Do your grooming outside, and use gloves if needed 4. Stay on top of pests; more scratching means more dander flying everywhere 5. These dog breeds are considered to be the most hypoallergenic, according to the AKC. Chinese crested. However, they also shed quite a bit, which means that Golden Retrievers are often not considered hypoallergenic. According to Mayo Clinic, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog 1. All dogs produce proteins that can cause allergies, though some dogs produce different proteins than others. Some dogs are less likely to spread these allergens around, though, especially if you take specific steps to prevent the spread of dander and saliva. How Do Dog Allergies Work? Most of us come into contact with the proteins dogs make without any problem. However, in some people, their immune system improperly labels these proteins as foreign invaders and seeks to destroy them whenever they get into the body. All dogs make these same proteins. Image Credit: otsphoto, Shutterstock However, there are several different types of proteins dogs make. These proteins make up different parts of the dog and are made in different places. Some people are allergic to one protein, while others are allergic to several. The same proteins someone is allergic to will affect which dogs are suitable for them. Because only male dogs have a prostate gland, only male dogs produce this protein. Those allergic to only Can f 5 are usually perfectly fine with female dogs. Usually, allergy tests lump all the dog proteins together. Many people who are allergic to dogs are also affected by the Can f 1 protein. This is the major protein produced by all dogs. What are Hypoallergenic Dogs? Many breeders will advertise their canines as hypoallergenic. However, this is misleading. All dogs make proteins, as we have discussed. Science does not seem to support the idea of a hypoallergenic dog. One study took a look at several hypoallergenic dog breeds to see if they produced less Can f 1 protein than non-hypoallergenic dogs. They collected hair and coat samples from the dog and dust samples from around the homes. However, the study found little difference between hypoallergenic dogs and non-hypoallergenic dogs in terms of the amount of protein found on their skin and around their home. The homes with Poodles had the highest dander concentration, while those with Labrador Retrievers had the lowest. The study also took a look at several mixed breeds and found that the Labradoodle seemed to spread less dander around the home than other dogs. They did not study the Golden Retriever in this particular study. However, this study gives us some idea of what dogs are actually hypoallergenic and not. Golden Retrievers shed quite a bit. Furthermore, they will produce all the kinds of protein that other dogs produce. Males will produce the Can f 5 protein, though females will not. However you look at it, Golden Retrievers are not incredibly hypoallergenic. Some only have minor allergies, while others have extensive allergies. So even though Golden Retrievers are not hypoallergenic, you can do quite a few things to lessen the effect the dog has on your allergy symptoms. But, if you do decide to adopt a dog anyway, there are a few things you can do to lessen your symptoms. Keep the dog out of your bedroom. You may be able to significantly reduce your allergy symptoms if you keep your dog out of the bedroom. Wash your hands. Wash your hands anytime you come into contact with your dog. Our hands act as vehicles for pet dander to enter our nose and eyes. When we rub our face after playing with our dog, we will transfer the allergy-causing dander. Washing your hands can prevent this. Avoid carpeted floors. You should avoid carpeted floors, as they tend to hold onto allergens. Instead, opt for easy-to-clean wood floors. Wear a mask when you are vacuuming or sweeping, as these activities tend to throw the dust into the air, which can worsen your allergies. Use HEPA filters. You should install HEPA filters throughout your home, particularly in your bedroom and places where your dog tends to spend the most time. Are golden retrievers hypoallergenic? There are many great reasons to consider adopting a golden retriever. But is this a good breed for allergy sufferers? Are golden retrievers hypoallergenic, or will they trigger an allergy attack? For all their great qualities, golden retrievers are not hypoallergenic. What Does Hypoallergenic Mean, Exactly? But it turns out that the term is a little more complicated than it seems. However, these lower shedding breeds tend to spread fewer allergens. If you have pet allergies, your immune system sees these proteins in pet dander as a foreign invader. Every dog produces these proteins, even hypoallergenic breeds. But because dander attaches itself to pet hair, the more a dog sheds, the less hypoallergenic it is. The amount of hair, and therefore the amount of dander, that your golden will spread around your home is relatively significant — especially when compared to a dog that is considered hypoallergenic, like a poodle. That means their coat consists of two layers: a dense undercoat and a longer topcoat. And that means even more allergens floating around your home. How to Live With a Golden Retriever If You Have Allergies Golden retrievers are not hypoallergenic — but what if you already care for one or you have your heart set on adopting this beautiful dog? So, what options do dog owners have? Groom Your Dog Grooming your golden regularly will help to keep shedding at a minimum and ultimately result in less dander in your home. Brush your dog on a regular basis or have a non-allergy suffering family member do it for you to remove loose hair. Bathing your dog with a deshedding shampoo is another good way to keep all that hair controlled. Browse Amazon to check the selection or visit your local pet store. Keep Things Clean A big part of keeping your allergies to a minimum if you live with a golden retriever will be keeping the home clear of dog fur. A robot vacuum can work wonders! Additionally, consider using HEPA air filters , which are designed to catch even the most microscopic of particles, including tiny dander particles. Set these up in the rooms where your dog spends the most time. This keeps hair from entering the vents and blowing into other rooms. Feed Fido Well You might not think that what your dog eats has an impact on your allergies, but it does. This will eventually lead to an increase in shedding, resulting in more exposure to allergens. Feeding your golden a high-quality food will help keep their skin and fur healthy, which can reduce your allergic reactions. Set Boundaries Does your golden retriever hop up on the family couch whenever they please? Do they sleep in bed with you? Cute as it may be, these behaviors expose you to more dog hair — and more allergy-causing dander. Train your dog not to get up on the furniture, or keep them out of places like the bedroom. Consider a Mixed Breed If your allergies are giving you second thoughts about adopting a golden retriever, you might want to consider adopting a mixed breed golden from a reputable breeder or shelter. The goldendoodle, for example, is a golden retriever crossed with a poodle — and their poodle genes help them shed less than a purebred golden retriever. See Your Doctor While the above methods can help you manage your allergy symptoms, they may not be enough to fully avoid them. In this case, visit your doctor. Antihistamines and immunotherapy allergy shots help allergic pet parents live comfortably with their beloved animal companions. Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic or Not? The golden retriever is one of the most popular dog breeds. But golden retrievers are not hypoallergenic. Because dog allergies are caused by a protein in dander that commonly attaches itself to fur, a moderate to heavy shedder like the golden retriever tends to cause allergic reactions for people who are sensitive to pet dander. Taking steps to manage dog allergens — regularly grooming your pet, frequently cleaning the house, feeding your dog high-quality food, and setting boundaries in the home — goes a long way toward reducing symptoms. Otherwise, you can always consider a mixed breed that may shed less than a purebred golden retriever. Talking to your doctor about medication or immunotherapy shots can also be a good option. Read more. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. Important Info By Last updated: Jun 08 We get a lot of questions about which dog breeds are hypoallergenic. Unfortunately, Goldens do not possess this quality, but not for the reason you probably expect. Golden Retrievers do shed quite a bit, which automatically makes them quite un-hypoallergenic, according to popular knowledge. However, things are a bit more complicated than that. Truthfully, there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog at all. All dogs create dander, and therefore all dogs will cause allergies. Dog Allergies When someone has dog allergies, their immune system mistakenly attacks the proteins dogs make as if they were a foreign invader. But, for one reason or another, the immune system thinks they are. All dogs make proteins. Because all dogs make these proteins, all dogs will cause allergies. Furthermore, some hypoallergenic dogs produce more of Can f 1 — which is the protein that most of those with dog allergies are allergic to. Therefore, some dogs that are labeled as hypoallergenic may be the opposite of hypoallergenic. In all likelihood, it still will. However, there is a golden lining. There are many things you can do to reduce your allergy symptoms to your particular dog. These methods work with all dogs, including Golden Retrievers. Because all dogs produce about the same level of allergens, there is little reason to get a low-shedding breed instead of a Golden Retriever. Both shedding and non-shedding dogs can have their allergen levels controlled somewhat. However, when you have dog allergies, washing your dog can help remove many of these allergens. This protein is the most common allergen. However, studies have found that you need to wash the dog at least twice a week to keep their allergen level low. We highly recommend using a sensitive-skin shampoo to reduce how much drying your dog experiences from these repeated baths, as too much bathing can cause their coats to be stripped of beneficial oils. Therefore, their symptoms will often decrease as well. Air filters can also be handy for those suffering from allergies. A HEPA filter can capture much of the allergens before they have a chance to cause any problems. You will need to keep on track with cleaning the filter, though. Furthermore, those who suffer from allergies often have more than one trigger. If you can reduce their contact with other allergens, you may reduce their symptoms around the dog as well. Those with lots of different allergens often suffer the worst. You can also try a medical treatment, such as antihistamine pills. There are technically six different allergens that dogs can make. However, not all dogs make the same allergens. For instance, only intact male dogs produce Can f 5. This protein is created in their prostate. One-third of all allergy sufferers are allergic to this protein specifically. However, you need to fix the male before they reach maturity, as they will start producing the protein. For this reason, we highly recommend females when possible. However, if you have a male dog, getting them fixed could solve many of your problems. With all that said, there can be some difficulty figuring out if you are specifically allergic to this protein or another one. Therefore, you often need to ask to be tested for each protein specifically. This is possible, but it often needs to be explicitly requested. Of course, it is possible to be allergic to Can f 1 and Can f 5 simultaneously. Therefore, you need to get tested for all of them before deciding to adopt a female Golden Retriever, as they do produce all the other canine proteins. Golden Retrievers are not specifically worse for allergies than any other canine out there. If you can keep up with some essential maintenance, such as grooming, then you can often successfully keep a Golden Retriever if you have allergies. They are not specifically worse for allergies than other dogs, though they can cause reactions. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are not hypoallergenic. However, no dog is truly hypoallergenic. Despite the common myth, people are not allergic to dog hair — they are allergic to the proteins that their dog produces. The dog produces these proteins as skin, saliva, and urine. All dogs produce skin. Therefore, all dogs also produce allergens. They spread these allergens around at equal rates as well. Therefore, someone with allergies is just as likely to have an allergic reaction to the Golden Retriever as they are the Poodle. However, this is excellent news if you want to own a Golden Retriever and have dog allergies. Luckily, there is a lot you can do to prevent dog allergens from bothering you — even if you have dog allergies. Bathing your dog twice a week almost wholly reduces the allergens on their coat, for instance. If you have dog allergies and want to keep a Golden Retriever, it is entirely possible. Featured Image Credit: tanatat, Shutterstock Written by Kristin Hitchcock Author Kristin is passionate about helping pet parents create a fulfilling life with their pets by informing them on the latest scientific research and helping them choose the best products for their pets. She currently resides in Tennessee with four dogs, three cats, two fish, and a lizard, though she has dreams of owning chickens one day! Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic? Read the full disclosure here. If you are a pet lover, nothing can be as frustrating as having a furry friend that causes allergies. This is why many owners want to know whether their golden retrievers are hypoallergenic. Golden retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. That means that a hypoallergenic dog usually releases a low amount of allergens. Pet dander refers to a skin flake released when your dog sheds. The coat and dander are only carriers of these proteins. Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic Dogs? What differs is the amount of dander produced by a given dog species. All mammals, including humans, have the dead flakes of skin known as dander when they sweat, grow, or heal from wounds. Even dogs considered to be hypoallergenic still produce a considerable amount of dander. An excellent example of such fur is that displayed by breeds such as the bichon frise and poodle. Given that information, is a golden retriever hypoallergenic? The answer is no. While golden retrievers are great pets, they are among the many dog breeds that shed excessively during certain times of the year. As we get close to summer and winter, these dogs shed their existing coat and prepare for the growth of a new jacket. As golden retrievers shed , more dander accumulates in the air. Golden retrievers also have what is called a double coat. The inner coat sheds more than the outer coat as it responds to the temperature and other factors in the environment. When it sheds, the dander that causes allergies also falls off. The outer coat is typically long and smooth. Not all golden retrievers produce the same allergens. Dogs produce six different types of allergens, so if you are only allergic to one allergen you can still find a golden retriever to keep. For instance, only male golden retrievers produce the type of protein Can f 5 that causes a third of all allergies. If you are allergic to this protein, you can get a female golden retriever without fear. All you need to do is take the necessary precautions to keep the dander in your home to a minimum. Suppose you have already decided to acquire a golden retriever, and you or your family members suffer from dog allergies. In that case, there are some steps that you can take to make your environment more allergy-friendly. These include: Grooming Using a gentle dog shampoo to wash your dog can reduce the amount of dander produced by your golden retriever. You can also reduce the shedding by taking your canine friend to a professional groomer. Removing the long hair and the shed undercoat will prevent unnecessary tugging on the healthy hair follicles. This way, you can keep the shedding to the minimum. To keep the allergens level low, you should wash your dog at least twice a week. Ensure that you use a sensitive skin shampoo to reduce the drying your dog is likely to experience from these frequent baths. This is important, as too much bathing can strip the coat of its beneficial oils. After bathing your golden retriever, you should brush them to remove excess fur, using a good quality dog brush. Environment You will need to keep your environment clean. Ensure that you regularly clean the furniture that your golden retriever comes into contact with to get rid of dander. You will need to put a good house cleaning regimen in place that includes carpet steam cleaning every month. You should avoid having carpets in the best-case scenario, as these are likely to hold dander. Ensure that you can stick to your cleaning plan long-term. You may also need to have a room in your home that is off limits to your golden retrievers. This will provide you with a relaxation spot without having to be wary of whether or not you will react to your dog. The filter will capture most of the allergens before triggering an allergic reaction; however, you must remember to clean the filter, too. Consider dander as dust and apply the same cleaning regimen you use to get rid of that. Pest Control Golden retrievers have long hair, making them the perfect breeding ground for ticks and fleas. Their long coat provides pests with the right places to hide, breed, and reproduce. When they bite your dog, the scratching causes more dander to fly off the skin into your home. It is best to work with your vet to put a good pest control regimen in place to stop the cycle. This could be medication or topical treatments and accessories, such as a flea collar once a month. Interactions You should be careful about how you interact with your golden retriever. The dander will accumulate on the sheets causing an allergic reaction. Instead, it would be best to get them a comfortable dog bed. By creating an allergen-free zone, you can reduce the number of allergens you encounter. Medical Treatment There are certain drugs such as antihistamines that can help to reduce an allergic reaction. If you feed your furry friend a high-quality diet made of natural ingredients and consisting of formulas backed by science, it can help to eliminate food-related sensitivities, coat issues, and excessive shedding. The signs of allergic reactions to a golden retriever often take the form of: Itching or swelling around the nose membranes or around the eyes Skin redness Coughing, shortness of breath and wheezing within 30 minutes of exposure to the golden retriever Rashes on the face, neck or chest Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Most goldendoodles are hypoallergenic, as they do not shed. This makes them a good choice for people with allergies. Final Thoughts So is the golden retriever hypoallergenic? According to the American Kennel Club, no dog is entirely hypoallergenic so even choosing a different breed might not eliminate your allergy suffering completely. If you are allergic to dogs and you still want a golden retriever, we advise that you talk to your doctor. Your physician may conduct tests to determine how severe your allergies are and therefore how well you will manage with a golden retriever. You can use the above steps to ensure that you can keep the cases of allergies caused by your golden retrievers low. You May Also Like. Previous Next Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic For dog-loving pet owners, few things are more devastating than an allergy to their pet. Golden Retrievers are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds in US homes, but is a Golden Retriever a hypoallergenic dog? The term is applied to any product — even dogs! All mammals with skin, humans included, will produce dander — dead flakes of skin — as their skin grows, changes, heals from wounds, sweats, and so on. Consequently, the shedding hair and dander are carriers of said fluids — so oftentimes, a breed that sheds more can make an allergy-prone person more apt to experience an attack, since the proteins are more present in the atmosphere. Additionally, many experts have noted that allergies are unique from person to person, and may even change for an individual with allergies over the course of their lifetime. While some attributed this quality to a low-shedding coat, the reality of hypoallergenic dogs is a little more complicated. The shape of the hair follicle means that, rather than falling away from the body, the healthy follicles hold onto the shed fur strands like Velcro. Another dog is known for its hypoallergenic properties, the Portuguese Water Dog, enjoyed a bit of celebrity status in the Obama-era White House. While they are wonderful, obedient, and loving dogs, the Golden Retriever is not, unfortunately, considered a hypoallergenic dog breed. The undercoat on a Golden is made up of fine, soft hair — think of it as the stuffing in a bed pillow, rather than the threads that make up the pillowcase. This layer acts as insulation for this water-loving breed and works very well — right up until temperatures start to creep up. This keeps the dog cool but is very bad news for owners with dog allergies since it ramps up the amount of dander in the atmosphere. If you or a family member struggle with dog allergies but your heart is set on a Golden Retriever, here are some easy measures you can take to make your environment more allergy-friendly: Grooming. The most important part of keeping doggie dander down is to wash as much of it away as possible with gentle dog shampoo. Washing your dog with shampoo every couple of weeks will also keep the dander to a minimum for the Golden Retriever breed. Pest Control. Fleas and ticks love long-haired breeds like the Golden Retriever, as the coat quality gives them plenty of places to burrow, hide, and reproduce. Their biting behaviors trigger your dog to scratch more often, and every scratch sends dander flying off of their coat and into your home. Work with your vet to find and stay on a good pest control regimen to stop this cycle, whether it be a once-a-month pill, topical treatments, or accessories like a flea collar. A good house-cleaning regimen might involve a monthly carpet steam-cleaning, a HEPA-filtered vacuum, and similar measures for preserving indoor air quality. Think of dander as dust — it essentially is — and tackle it accordingly in your cleaning routines. Personal Health. Because dander is the culprit behind canine allergies, good hygiene habits with hand, face and even hair-washing especially for dog owners with long hair will assist in keeping dander away from the nose and mouth — this is especially important if you let your pet sleep in your bed. You may also want to discuss allergy-fighting options with your doctor, including allergy shots or daily allergy medication to keep histamine reactions under control. The Puppy-Versus-Adult Allergy Some Golden Retrievers and their owners end up in an untenable allergy situation because the same puppy that fit well in the household causes severe allergies as an adult. The hormones and heightened immune responses triggered by pregnancy can react strongly to dog dander, but this will likely only occur during the pregnancy itself. In fact, a study published in the journal Clinical and Experimental Allergy revealed that exposure to pets and their dander actually increased the number of beneficial antibodies found in the cord blood of the fetus. So, while sneezing while pregnant might not be ideal, there may actually be some long-term benefits in the process for the baby-to-be. These problems all equate to additional dander: a dog with dry, flaky skin will scratch more often, for example, and send all that dander out into their environment. Lucy Pet offers a range of premium grain-free dog kibble products that are not only healthy but feature high-quality, natural ingredients with formulas that are backed by science and years of careful research. In fact, our precisely-formulated dog foods may eliminate common food sensitivities correlated to coat issues and excessive shedding — which is especially good news for allergy sufferers! In addition to feeding your Golden a well-balanced diet and plenty of fresh water at all times, a tasty dog treat or two can also help keep their scratching and gnawing focused on their edible goodies, rather than their fur. Accessed December 13, .Newcomer, Lori. Moore, Cindy. Manzotti, Roberto. Are Golden Retrievers Hypoallergenic? They are a breed that frequently sheds and are not a suitable match for people with bad allergies. Unfortunately, the loving, energetic and playful Golden Retriever does not fall on that list. There are a few myths to bust when it comes to hypoallergenic dogs. First, contrary to popular belief, no dog breed can actually be hypoallergenic. Dander is the flecks of skin that are shed by dogs and can cause allergic reactions. Those loose particles of dander are what causes your allergies to flare up. Hypoallergenic Dog Breeds There are plenty of dog breeds that are well suited for allergy prone individuals. Even if you do have moderate to strong dog allergies, many people can still own breeds without suffering from any sort of irritation. Smaller dogs are typically more hypoallergenic as they are very infrequent shedders. Since they do not typically produce dander, they are all great dogs to own for people with allergies. However, if you only suffer from mild dog allergies, it is possible to still own these breeds without having daily irritation. Check out the tips below on ways to reduce your dog allergies. Ways to Reduce Dog Allergies Aside from owning a hypoallergenic breed, there are other things you can do to reduce your irritation. Using a high-efficiency particulate air HEPA purifier and vent filters helps to reduce airborne pet allergens. In addition, keeping your pet out of your bedroom or other rooms that have furniture will help to reduce your chance of an irritation. Bathing your dog once a week will help remove the dander from its coat, making an allergic reaction less likely. Also, choosing a house without carpet will significantly reduce your chance of allergies, however, if you already have carpet in your home, shampooing it regularly will do the trick. Lastly, if you are able to keep your dog outside for a few hours during the day, you can allow the air in your home to clear.

Submit to Stumbleupon Opens in new window Crystal the standard poodle had 16 puppies in her first litter, a number owner Kelli Hewitt of Lancaster, Minn. The puppies shown here are 9 weeks old and are healthy. The Hewitts believe the birth has tied a record for the largest standard poodle litter. Another poodle named Charlie from British Columbia previously gave birth to 16 puppies in , with the owner, Deborah Bridgman, saying she was up for 23 hours helping with delivery, according to a report from The Province, a newspaper based in British Columbia. The record for the largest litter for any dog breed goes to Tia, a Neapolitan mastiff who had 24 puppies in by Cesarean section, according to Guinness World Records. The owners, Damian Ward of the United Kingdom and Anne Kellegher of Ireland, said the dog gave birth to nine female and 15 male puppies. Forum News Service photo submitted by Kelli Hewitt Though Tia lost four puppies, all of the Hewitt puppies from Crystal survived the natural birth and are healthy, Hewitt said. The mother is doing fine as well. The family watched over the poodle as she gave birth over a hour period, doing everything they could to make the puppies comfortable, making sure they were properly fed and ensuring they survived. The Hewitts, who started breeding dogs five years ago under the name Rockadoodles, are used to having a lot of puppies running around since they are licensed through the Minnesota Board of Animal Health, but they have never had this many in one batch. Crystal was bred via artificial insemination to a miniature poodle named Rusty of Rockadoodles, making their offspring moyen, or medium, poodles. The Hewitts also cross poodles with sheepdogs, Australian shepherds, golden retrievers and other breeds. Not only that, but they have a big family of their own. Hewitt and her husband, James, have 10 biological children and 18 adopted children — 15 from Haiti, one from Ethiopia, one from China and another from Ukraine. Twelve are adults with some in college, Hewitt said, and an 11th grandchild is on the way. The children help with the business, Hewitt said, adding they put a lot of love and care into the operation. The puppies get a lot of attention and playtime with our kids. They would tie strings around the pups to tell which ones were on which schedule, she said. Some of the dogs they previously raised have gone to homes as therapy animals for traumatized children and those with special needs. By Chris Poodles are a fantastic breed of dog — they are intelligent, loyal, and adorable. These dogs are some of the most popular species in America for a good reason. How many puppies can a Poodle have? There are two parts to the question of how many puppies a poodle can have. The first is how many puppies are in a poodle litter. This answer varies, depending on the size, health, and age of your dog. Poodle litters can be anywhere from a single puppy to upwards of ten—these dogs have been known to surprise breeders with their litters! With the number of litters in mind, a standard poodle can generally have anywhere from twenty to thirty puppies in her lifetime. A miniature poodle will have twelve to twenty puppies throughout her breeding career, and a toy poodle can birth four to ten puppies total. These numbers vary, of course, but they are accurate estimates. There are different shades of black coat. How Many Puppies are in a Poodle Litter? As a general rule, the smaller the dog, the fewer puppies she will have. Toy poodles tend to have between one and three puppies per litter, rarely going above three. Most toy poodles give birth to one puppy at a time and are more prone to health issues after breeding. Miniature poodles can have three to five puppies in a litter. Miniature poodles are pretty sturdy breeding dogs. Of course, full-size poodles can have larger litters. These poodles have the largest litter size and have been known to birth from two to fourteen puppies. More than five litters can hurt a dog and increase their chances of post-birth injury and unhealthy puppies. However, if your dog is healthy and well cared for, it will be able to breed up to five times with ease. This rule is especially true for smaller dogs, whose bodies are more fragile and sensitive to pregnancy. Factors That Affect Litter Count Of course, many factors affect how many puppies are born in each litter. These are generally related to the genetics of both parent dogs and the atmosphere surrounding the pregnancy. A healthier, happier dog is more likely to give birth to more puppies because she is surrounded by love and peace. While these factors affect each litter individually, they are only guidelines for taking the best care of your breeder dog. However, it will improve the overall health and happiness of both mothers and babies. Choosing the best dog food for Poodles is tricky — got to look after that coat! Breeder Which breeder you choose can increase the health of your dog. A reputable breeder will have all the information you need to make a decision. You need to be able to trust the breeder with these things. The healthier and happier a mother dog is, the greater her odds of delivering large and healthy litters. Most dog breeds go into heat about twice a year, and it lasts for a week or more. The process can affect how many puppies are in the litter. Does a dog have to be in heat to get pregnant? Yes, but it is a little more complicated than you might think — see our article on dog heat that explains everything you need to know. Some breeders will couple the dogs a few times over these days to ensure that the result is successful. After two heats, a poodle will be fully grown and ready to give birth. The ideal age for a mother is between two and four years old. Dogs become less able to have puppies as they grow older, much like humans. It can also affect how many puppies are in each litter and how many litters the breed dog can have. A healthier sire will decrease risks in pregnancy and birth. The healthier a dog is, the more puppies she could potentially have. A professional breeder knows this and pairs sires and dams based on mutual age, health, genetics, and sometimes even personality. A Miniature gray Poodle enjoying the outdoors. Some breeders can also run tests for potential fur color and ancestry. Good genetics will not only increase the health of the puppies but could also increase the litter size. Healthier poodle mamas will be able to have more puppies and more litters without risking their health. Time of Year Believe it or not, the time of the year that the puppies are born can impact the size of the litter. This phenomenon is one of the great mysteries of breeding dogs, but the trend continues year after year. If your dog is going into heat for a winter litter, be aware that it may be smaller than her spring or summer heat. Plus you will need to consider a heated whelping pad. Final Thoughts Poodles, depending on their size, can birth up to ten puppies in a litter. 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. Final Thoughts How many puppies can a miniature poodle have? Expect 5 to 7 puppies for a Miniature Poodle. Toy Poodles are the tiniest of the Poodle breeds, with the fewest number of pups in one litter. Expect about 3 — although singleton litters meaning a litter with only one puppy occur quite often. How many puppies can a miniature poodle have in a litter? A typically standard Poodle litter may contain up to seven puppies, whereas a Miniature Poodle litter will average around five, and a Toy Poodle litter will have about three. Factors That Affect Litter Count Several factors can affect litter size in miniature poodles, including the health and genetics of the parents, as well as nutrition and environmental conditions. Litters of six to eight puppies are considered average, but some litters may have as many as twelve puppies or as few as one. How long is a poodle in labor? A pregnant dog will typically go into labor within a few days of her due date. However, some dogs will not go into labor until they are a few days overdue. Once a dog begins to show signs of labor, the process will typically last for 12 to 24 hours. How long does it take for a small dog to have puppies? Small dogs tend to have shorter pregnancies than larger dogs, so they typically go into labor sooner. Most small dogs will give birth within 12 to 24 hours of showing signs of labor. How many times can a toy poodle give birth? Toy Poodles are the tiniest of the Poodle breeds, and they typically have the fewest number of pups in one litter. However, it is not unusual for them to have three or four puppies. Some Toy Poodles have as many as six puppies, but this is rare. Toy Poodles can give birth multiple times, but the average is two to three litters. Does the male or female dog determine the size of the puppies? The gender of the dog does not determine the size of the puppies. It is the genetics of the parents that determines how many puppies a dog will have. Some dogs may have a larger litter if they have a genetic disposition for it. However, the average litter size for tiny dogs is four to six puppies regardless of the gender of the parents. Expect about three puppies from a Toy Poodle litter. Miniature Poodles will have an average of five to seven puppies, while Standard Poodles typically have six to seven puppies in a litter. Some dogs may only have one or two puppies if they suffer from dwarfism. In general, the size of the litter is determined by the genetics of the parents and not by their gender. How long is the gestation period for a poodle? The gestation period for a poodle is typically around 63 days. An ultra sound is inconclusive until around 30 days and a x-ray will not show anything till around 45 days when the calcium in the puppies bones solidifies. This leaves very little time to get prepared. So let's discuss some important Poodle pregnancy facts. This is Curly, who is 19 months old and 51 days pregnant. Let's first clear up some myths and look at some Poodle pregnancy facts. A female Poodle may become pregnant: Any time after her 1st heat, no matter how young she is At any age, no matter how old she is, as long as she is still entering heat.Starting at about week 2 it will become firm. By week 4 it will be noticeably swollen. Her mammary glands will become enlarged Some inverted nipples that you may not have even noticed will "pop out" She will clean herself more thoroughly than usual Nesting behavior may begin. Some dogs will gather toys and other articles from around the house, showing maternal instincts toward them. She may also drag pillows, blankets and other soft materials to a quiet corner of a room to build a 'nest'. Her appetite should increase There may be minor to moderate clear discharge. This usually begins by week 4 or 5. Litter Size The average size litter for a Toy Poodle is: 3 pups The average size litter for a Miniature Poodle is: 5 pups The average size litter for a Standard Poodle is: 6 pups Do keep in mind that these are averages. It is common for a Toy Poodle to have just 1 puppy and while it is rare, she may have up to 5. The largest Poodle litter ever recorded is.Charlie named for Charlie's Angels was in labor for 23 hours, giving birth to 10 female puppies and 6 males. And believe it or not, this was an unplanned breeding. The sire, Magnum another standard Poodle broke through 2 wooden fences to get to Charlie when she was in heat. Caring for a Pregnant Poodle Once you suspect that your Poodle may be pregnant, you will want to have this confirmed. There are several ways that the veterinarian can do this, at different stages: A blood test can test for pregnancy and will be most reliable by day .An ultrasound can pick up fetal heartbeats by day day .An x-ray should be performed to determine exactly how many fetus are growing so that you will know how many to expect. This is not done until late in the pregnancy, usually after day 45, since bones are not sufficiently calcified until this time. Moderate daily exercise should continue throughout the pregnancy while excluding any more intense activity. Walking will allow the dam to maintain muscle mass and keep her body in top shape in preparation for labor. Her appetite will increase by week 2 or 3 and by week 5 nutritional needs nearly double. While food should not be denied, the focus should be on offering a well-balanced, healthy diet. Adding an egg once per day as well as a scoop or two of cottage cheese is a good way to offer a bit more protein. Pregnant dogs should not be given any extra calcium via supplements as this can predispose a dam to the dangerous health condition of eclampsia a life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels that can happen when the dam is nursing. The home environment should be as stress free as possible and the pregnant Poodle should be allowed to retreat and rest as she pleases. You may wonder how much weight a pregnant Poodle gains. For example, a toy Poodle that was 8 lbs. A standard Poodle that was 55 lbs .While the majority of delivers are without complications, you will want to be prepared for any situation. You will need: 1. A thermometer 2. Sheets, towels or clean newspapers 3. Floss or thread 4. A whelping box - This can be a cardboard box, lined child's wading pool for standards or even a canine bed Perla beds work quite nicely 6. Heating pad 7. Having an assistant be there with you is always a good idea. How to Know it is Time All dog breeds carry the puppies on average for 63 days; however a Poodle pregnancy can last anywhere from 59 to 65 days and still be considered normal. You will know that labor is to begin in approximately 24 hours when your dog's internal body temperature drops. For this reason, at least one week before the due date, start taking your Poodle's temperature twice per day. While some digital thermometers will beep, if you are using a standard type, leave it in for 3 minutes. At this time, you should be prepared to remain with your Poodle, set her up in the whelping area and separate any males dogs in the house so that they cannot reach her. If your Poodle does not go into labor within 24 hours after her body temperature drops to below F, you will want to alert the veterinarian. Stages of Labor There are 3 main stages of canine labor. Stage 1 During the first stage of labor the cervix will dilate and contractions will begin. This element of Poodle labor can be painful and a dog may express this by: Acting restless. Your browser does not support the audio tag. It is approximately the same length as the height at the withers. The skull is moderately rounded with a slight but definite stop. It has a long, straight muzzle. The dark, oval-shaped eyes are set somewhat far apart and are black or brown. The ears hang close to the head and are long and flat. Both the front and back legs are in proportion with the size of the dog. The topline is level. The tail is set and carried high. It is sometimes docked to half its length or less to make the dog look more balanced. Note: Docking tails is illegal in most European countries. Dewclaws may be removed. The oval-shaped feet are rather small and the toes are arched. The coat is either curly or corded. While it does not make the written show standard, some breeders are breeding parti-colored Poodles. See grooming for different types of Poodle clips. Temperament The Miniature Poodle is an intelligent, joyful companion dog. It can be trained to a high degree and is very willing and happy to please its handler. Comical and clever, it is often used as a circus dog. The more intelligent a dog is, the more it needs its mind occupied. This breed cannot live outside in a kennel. It needs to be part of the family. It can be high-strung if not given the proper type and amount of exercise. Do not allow this dog to develop Small Dog Syndrome , where the dog is led to believe it is alpha over humans. It can cause the dog to become sensitive and nervous , and not very trustworthy with children and possibly strangers, along with many other behavior issues. Socialize your dog well. This is a very good watchdog for its size, seldom becoming aggressive. Dogs may start to bark a lot without proper human to canine communication , rules to follow and limits to what they are allowed to do. Poodles are friendly with other dogs and non-canine pets. Height, Weight Height: 11 - 15 inches 28 - 38 cm Weight: 15 - 17 pounds 7 - 8 kg The sizes of the official AKC-recognized Poodle breeds are determined by height, not by weight. The Miniature Poodle must be over 10 inches and 15 inches or less at the highest point of the shoulder. Any Poodle which is over 15 inches or is less than 10 inches at the highest point of the shoulder cannot compete in the AKC show ring as a Miniature Poodle. Brown Poodles tend to become prematurely gray. Living Conditions The Miniature Poodle is good for apartment life. It will be calm indoors if it receives enough exercise. It will do okay without a yard. Exercise Miniature Poodles need a daily walk. While out on the walk make sure the dog heels beside or behind the person holding the lead, never in front, as instinct tells a dog the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. As with all breeds, play will not fulfill their primal instinct to walk. Dogs that do not get to go on daily walks are more likely to display behavior problems. They will also enjoy a good romp in a safe, open area off lead, such as a large, fenced-in yard. They adore water and love sessions of play. They are a very versatile breed with a hunting and retrieving beginning, although they excel in any performance event you offer them, including agility, obedience, rally and conformation showing, and often one will leave one ring and go directly to another to compete again. Since they love water they are great dock diving dogs and love water retrieving. Life Expectancy. Final Thoughts Does Size Matter? Although toy, miniature, and standard Poodles are all the same breed, they have some differences. There are also mixed breeds and non-official Poodle classifications, such as Goldendoodles. On average, larger breeds tend to have more puppies than small breeds. Depending on the official breed, here are how many puppies a Poodle can have. A brown Mini Poodle sitting on a lap. Poodles are one of the greatest lap dogs. Standard Poodles Standard Poodles are the largest recognized breed. On average, standards will weigh pounds and reach an average height of inches. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! See Poodle Puppies Available Generally speaking, large dog breeds tend to have more puppies than smaller breeds. Standards will have an average of seven puppies per litter. Although standard poodles can have more per litter, they have a shorter life expectancy, roughly years. Pregnancy can be demanding of dogs, especially later in life, so they may not give birth to as many litters as smaller breeds. Miniature Poodles Miniature Poodles are one size smaller than standard poodles. They weigh an average of pounds and typically weigh between pounds. These small or medium-sized dogs will have fewer pups per litter than the Standard Poodle but more than a toy poodle. Usually, you can expect a Miniature Poodle to have five puppies. Because Miniature Poodles are smaller, they have a greater life expectancy of about years. The curly black coat of a Poodle at the beach. These small dogs will only reach about pounds and will be under a foot tall. As with Miniature Poodles, Toy Poodles will live an average life span of years. Unlike Miniatures, Toys will have around three puppies in each litter. Because the litters are much smaller than other Poodle breeds , they are rare and more in demand. As a Poodle gets older, its litter size will get smaller. Even if the mom is in her prime years, her health will play an essential role in litter size and health. If the female Poodle is unhealthy prior to pregnancy or once she is pregnant, there tend to be fewer puppies. Poodle owners need to ensure the mom is healthy. Poodles should always get plenty of exercise, mental stimulation through play, and nutritious foods for optimal health. Overweight or unhealthy poodles will yield smaller litters. After a male Poodle reaches five years old, his sperm count starts to decrease. Ideally, the Poodle dad will be at least one and half years old and under five years old. Not only does this give the mom a greater probability of a big litter, but a better chance of having puppies at all. Additionally, the health of the male dog may affect its sperm count. A male dog may struggle with infertility if it has diseases such as arthritis. Cavapoo dog resting in the sun at the park. A female Poodle will usually go into heat for the first time within the first year, sometimes as young as six months old. Once she enters heat , she will be able to get pregnant. However, it would be best if you waited until the Poodle is two years or older to breed for her safety. You may have heard that a female dog should give birth at least once in her life. At most, breed one female Poodle three times. There are a couple of methods Poodle breeders use. Some breeders will breed every other heat, while others will breed twice in a row before giving her a break. Additionally, you should not breed a female Poodle after she is years old. Although she can get pregnant, it will be harder on her older body. Make sure they are ethical, and put importance on the health of their dogs. A young Veterinarian doctor listens to the heartbeat of a happy gray Poodle Frequently Asked Questions Here are the most frequently asked questions regarding how many puppies a Poodle can have. What is the largest known Poodle litter? Despite the average Poodle litter being puppies, one Standard Poodle gave birth to a whopping 16 puppies. Charlie, the female dog who gave birth to the large litter, was very healthy at a prime age. The healthier the pup, the better the chance of a large litter. How long is a Poodle pregnant? Dogs will be pregnant for an average of 63 days, which is similar to that of a Poodle. She may have a pregnancy that lasts as little as 59 days or as much as 65 days, both of which are normal. Get ready; a decreased body temperature signals that she will likely be in labor within the next 24 hours. How often do Poodles go into heat? On average, toys and Miniatures will go into heat times per year. Standard Poodles will likely go into heat once or twice each year. How do you know if your Poodle is pregnant? At what age do Poodles calm down? Dogs have similar pregnancy symptoms to that humans. You may notice that your Poodle is taking more naps or seems tired more than usual. Exhaustion is one of the first signs your Poodle is pregnant. Depending on where she is at in her pregnancy, she may have a smaller appetite or even vomit. Throwing up is similar to morning sickness that human mothers experience. Note that human pregnancy tests do NOT work for Poodle or any dogs. They measure HCG which is a hormone that dogs do not produce. On the other hand, she may be hungrier and show a desire for more food. As her hormones fluctuate, her appetite will likely fluctuate. A pregnant Poodle may have some behavioral changes. She may want to snuggle up to you more often, or she may want more time alone. If you notice weight gain, this is a signal to take her to the vet. You may notice her gather blankets, pillows, or other bedding to create a nest-like area. You may need to give her some space and keep her away from any children until she gives birth. Larger dogs have larger litters, while small-sized dogs will have smaller litters. Poodles are a highly sought-after dog, so breeders hope for a large litter. Healthy poodles between 1. Similar Posts. Whether this is your first litter of puppies or you have been breeding dogs for decades, every litter is a unique and wonderful experience. Today we will look at everything related to Poodle conception, pregnancy and birth. Table of Contents Do female Poodles have periods? Poodles — and all female dogs — do not have periods that are comparable to human cycles. During this heat cycle your Poodle will have discharge, probably be irritable and, of course — be able to get pregnant! If a dog is spayed, she will have her uterus and ovaries removed and as a result not go into heat anymore. How long do Poodles stay in heat? A regular heat is about weeks long. Your Poodle is not fertile during the entire time however. During the first days your dog is not fertile, only after 1. The heat goes along with the much-dreaded discharge. Many Poodle owners opt for doggy diapers when their Poodle is in season to keep their floors and furniture clean. How do I find a good baby daddy? Depending on your breeding goals, you will be searching for the perfect match for your Poodle. If you are planning to breed a pure-bred Poodle litter like Parti Poodles , choose a registered and health-tested Poodle as the sire. The American Kennel Club will help you get in touch with other Poodle owners. If you are planning to have a Doodle litter, the choice of dad might for example be: a Schnauzer for Schnoodle puppies a Bernese Mountain Dog for Bernedoodle pups a Golden Retriever for Goldendoodle , Mini Goldendoodle or F1b Mini Goldendoodle offspring an Old English Sheepdog for Sheepadoodle pups You should always make sure that both parents have passed breed-specific health tests so that the babies can have the best possible start into a long and healthy life! How can I tell if my Poodle is pregnant? If you hope that your Poodle to be pregnant, she has probably been in season and has been around an intact male. Whether you chose a purebred Poodle daddy or a different breed to create adorable Doodle babies, you probably cannot wait to know if the pregnancy took! If you want to know for sure, visit a vet on days from the probable day of conception. Your vet will be able to do an ultrasound on your Poodle just like on a human momma-to-be! If you do not want to take your dog to the vet, there is no way to accurately tell until about 5 weeks after conception, at which point pregnant Poodles start to visible gain weight and might show nesting behaviors. How many days are Poodles pregnant? This might vary by a couple days however. Smaller dogs tend to give birth a bit earlier than larger breeds If you are breeding Miniature or Toy Poodles, or crosses such as a Mini Goldendoodle or F1b Mini Goldendoodle , your dog may already give birth after days. He can take an x-ray to determine how many pups she is carrying. This will help make a better plan for the whelping. How many puppies will my Poodle have? The number of pups you can expect will depend on the size of the parents. As a general rule, large breeds have litters with higher numbers of pups than small breeds. Standard Poodle If the mom of your litter is a Standard Poodle, expect around 7 puppies. Fun fact: in , a Standard Poodle named Crystal made history when she gave birth to 16 puppies! Miniature Poodle For Miniature Poodles expect around 5 puppies. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles are the smallest type of Poodle and will have the smallest number of puppies in one litter. Plan for around 3 — though also singelton litters meaning a litter with only one single puppy happen regularly. Are Poodles good mothers? Most Poodles are good mother dogs. How well prepared you are You need to set the mom up for success and make puppy raising easy for her. Get her a spacious and soft whelping box. Clip the hair on her stomach so that the pups can nurse easily. Ensure that she is healthy and had prenatal veterinary care. How safe mom feels Being pregnant with, birthing and caring for a litter of puppies is a big task! Your Poodle mom needs to feel safe and cared for in order to be a great mom. If you have any other dogs, they should not be allowed to access the whelping box or disturb the female. She needs a lot of peace and quiet. Your support Prepare to spend a lot of time and effort supporting your Poodle as she is raising her pups. She will need a lot of specialized nutrition , especially as she is nursing. You are responsible for making sure nobody disturbs her — this also applies to small kids in the household! How often should I breed my female? First of all, it is a myth that every female dog needs to have at least one litter. Do not breed your Poodle just because you think this is required. Female dogs can live a long and healthy life without ever having puppies. Only if you are ready to raise a litter responsibly and with a lot of time and effort you should breed. If you decide to do this, three times should be the maximum amount of litters your female has. Every pregnancy and whelping will wear on your Poodle. While Poodles have a long lifespan , you should not breed a dog over the age of 8 or 9 years old. Even though your female could still get pregnant, this is too old to have puppies. Some owners breed their females 5 or 6 times. Do not do this! It is not fair to the momma dog and borders on puppy mill practice. It is a much better approach to have few litters, but to make them the best they can be. The Bottom Line Supporting your Poodle through pregnancy, birth and puppy raising can be a wonderful experience. Only commit to it if you are ready to spend time, money and effort though. Always make sure that the parents of any litter have passed breed-specific health test and never breed more than 3 litter off of one female! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Characteristics Life Span As pointed out in the intro paragraph Shepradors generally live between 10 and 12 years, and sometimes they can reach the age of .However, they tend to be cautious with strangers, thanks to their German Shepherd ancestors. Caring Grooming: their shorthaired coat needs regular brushing: every day in the shedding season spring and autumn and three-to-five times a week in the rest of the year. Activity level With two highly energetic parent breeds, these dogs need an active life, so be ready to spend several hours a day keeping your pet busy. A Labrador Shepherd is generally 20 to 26 inches tall cm. Besides being active, you should have a large house, with a yard to provide her with enough space to move around. The Labrador Shepherd likes cold climates rather than hot weather, so be sure to have the ability to keep her comfortable all year. Further Reading Top 10 Dog Sports 2. They have it in their blood, and can successfully do police work, including searching, tracking, rescue, or guard work. If you care about your flowers and plants, you should also consider building an enclosure to keep your dog away from them. When you bring her inside, provide her with toys and games to keep her busy. She will enjoy any activity that stimulates her mind, such as dog puzzles or training sessions. The vacuum cleaner will be your new best friend German Shepherd Lab Mix is a double-coated breed, which means they have an undercoat next to the skin with longer hair over the top. Dogs from this crossbreed shed a lot, especially when the seasons change. If you want to keep her hair shiny and healthy, you should take time to brush her for at least minutes, three-to-five times a week. A consistent brushing schedule will help you reduce the amount of hair around the house. Besides brushing, you should include in your schedule: cleaning her ears once a week , brushing her teeth at least three times a week , and cleaning her eyes when needed. While this sounds like a lot, on the other hand, she only needs to take a bath about once a month. Exercising her on a concrete surface could help you keep her nails in good shape and reduce the number of visits to the vet. Always buy non-toxic toys, and substitute them with new ones as soon as they start deteriorating to avoid accidents. Your dog will need some strong toys, adapted to her age. Most hybrids tend to have a balanced personality, but as your puppy could be the result of more crosses , she may not inherit the exact characteristics you want in a dog; your future dog is prone to a series of health issues, caused by her bloodline. Obesity, hip and elbow dysplasia, eye diseases and diabetes are a lot more common with these dogs, but she could also develop epilepsy, skin allergies, bloat or cardiovascular diseases, these being common among Labradors and German Shepherds. From my point of view, most estimations work well for average dogs. You should buy your dog from a responsible breeder In most cases, a Labrador Shepherd has high potential and is a great candidate for the title of the perfect family dog. However, as mentioned before, hybrid dogs could have unpredictable coat colors, personalities, and health issues, so buying your puppy from a reliable source is as close as you can get to a clear image about your future dog. Generally, this hybrid can be 26 inches 66 cm tall and can weigh up to 88 pounds 40 kg. Taking into account the height and weight of its German Shepherd and Labrador mix parents, this crossbreed is a medium to a large-sized dog. So measurements can still vary more or less from that range. Good news for you! It will shower you with love and loyalty, and make you proud with its intelligence and playfulness. Do you think you can deal with this? Shepradors has a life expectancy of 10 to 12 years, but some of them can reach this age. We all want our pets to live longer and spend more years with us, so read this section to avoid and better prepare against genetic illnesses. Conclusion As you could see above, when buying a Sheprador you get the best of two great breeds. I think that this mix of German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever makes for the perfect family dog — kind, loyal, patient with children, and protective. However, they have endless energy and require a lot of time and attention, which makes them suitable for active families only. So are you ready to handle such a dog? Leave us a comment below and tell us about your personal experience with this unique crossbreed. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. But I adopted my little Hank recently and he seems both very playful and very cuddly. He likes to snuggle a lot but is very active too. Just wondering if I should expect him to go crazy one of these days? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. It is, therefore, no surprise that some breeders are starting to mix the two. Considering whether a German Shepherd Lab Mix is right for you? Read on for everything you need to know about this amazing mixed-breed dog. Lab German Shepherd Mix Overview Size — 22 to 25 inches tall and 50 to 80 pounds Coat — Medium length, double coat, color varies Shedding — Yes Temperament — Intelligent, active, and loyal, but can be wary of strangers Trainable — Highly, but prone to destructive behavior when bored Activity — Highly active needs two hours of activity per day Best For — Families and people with active lifestyles and lots of time to spend with them What is a German Shepherd Lab Mix? As these dogs are roughly the same size, the mother can be of either breed as long as she is larger than the father, to ensure against any difficulty in the birthing process. Sheprador Appearance As is the case for most mix-breed dogs, it is a bit of a gamble what you will get when these two come together. They might have the pointed ears of a German Shepherd or the floppy ears of a Labrador. There is nothing to do but wait and see. But luckily, both German Shepherds and Labradors are attractive dogs, so however they turn out they should be handsome. That said, we can make a few generalizations about the appearance of Shepradors. Size As both German Shepherds and Labradors are medium- to large-sized dogs, you can expect their mixed offspring to be the same. German Shepherds are the larger of the two and are usually between 50 and 90 pounds and 22 to 26 inches tall. Labradors are only a little bit smaller, at 50 to 80 pounds and 22 to 25 inches tall. So expect your German Shepherd Lab Mix to stand between 22 and 25 inches tall and weigh 50 to 80 pounds. You can narrow this range down a bit by looking at the size of the parents. Color The color of these gorgeous mixed-breed dogs is also highly variable, and you might end up with a pooch of a solid coat color, like Labs, or striking mixed coloring, like German Shepherds. A lot of this depends on the color of the Labrador parent, whether they are yellow, black, or chocolate. As a general rule, the darker the lab parent, the darker the coat of the pup. But you also get white German Shepherd Dogs, which can result in striking white Shepradors. Coat When it comes to coat length, you should expect in most cases that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will have a shorter coat, like that of a Labrador. This seems to be a dominant gene, and the vast majority of German Shepherd Lab Mixes end up with this type of coat. The dog will certainly have a double coat, as this is a feature of both breeds. The undercoat will be soft and fluffy, and the guard coat rough. This does mean that they shed—a lot. This is not the type of dog to have at home if anyone in the household suffers from allergies. Shepherd Lab Mix Puppy Lab German Shepherd Mix Character While temperament is again unpredictable with mix-breeds, both German Shepherds and Labradors are intelligent, active, and loyal dogs, so you can expect their offspring to share these traits. German Shepherds are very intelligent and have a natural protective instinct. They have a tendency to guard whatever they consider to be theirs. Labradors were originally bred as gun dogs, to retrieve the wild game of hunters. As such, they are very obedient and tend to be pleasers, and they like nothing more than spending time with their humans. As both breeds are intelligent and highly trainable, you can expect these characteristics to appear in a Sheprador. However, whether they will be a guard dog that can be aggressive with strangers, or a pleaser that is great with children, you will have to wait and see. While dogs are a mix of nature and nurture, if you want to take a Lab German Shepherd mix into a family home, or if you are a first-time dog owner, you will want to be careful about which individual dog you choose. Activity Levels However their personality turns out, you are going to have a dog with a lot of energy. These larger dogs that are used to working need around two hours of exercise each day. Their intelligence also means they get bored easily, and when they do get bored, they can have a tendency toward destructive behavior, which means digging and chewing. They do best with active owners with whom they can go walking, hiking, and running. Whether these dogs will like swimming is a coin toss. While Labradors love the water, German Shepherds are a bit more wary. But their size and adventurous nature mean they can be trained to love the water. So you have a good chance that your Lab German Shepherd Mix will be a swimmer. These dogs are loyal and love being around their humans. You will find them at their happiest and healthiest when you make them part of the family and shower them with love. Exercise Ideally, your Sheprador will need around two hours of exercise per day. This might be more than just a long walk, as their high energy levels mean they will like to run as well. They will enjoy tackling tough trails with you at their side, and the retriever nature of Labradors also means this breed is likely to enjoy a good game of fetch. Bear in mind that these dogs will need this level of exercise rain or shine, or they will become frustrated and start engaging in destructive behavior. This is not only bad for them in general, but can put excess pressure on their hips, which are also prone to issues. Intellectual Stimulation German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs are invariably highly intelligent, which makes them easy to train but also means they get bored very easily. When they do get bored, they are smart enough to find trouble, and you may come home to quite the scene. These dogs need to spend time with people to occupy their minds, and they also benefit from intellectually stimulating games. But expect them to make short work of these challenges, as they are chewers. You will be getting them new games quite often. Companionship Labradors need a lot of companionship, and this is a trait their offspring with German Shepherds are likely to share. Not only will they get bored and start acting up, but they can become depressed. Grooming Both German Shepherds and Labradors are shedders, so you can be sure their Sheprador offspring will be as well. This is just a fact of life with Shepradors. They will need to be brushed at least twice a week, and as often as once a day during the shedding seasons fall and spring. As well as brushing, invest in a good quality vacuum cleaner that has special functionality to help you pick up dog hair. These dogs are also likely to enjoy jumping up on the couch for a snuggle and a snooze. Invest in coverings and be sure your swanky vacuum cleaner has an attachment for upholstery. Their coat is not the only part of their grooming to attend to. You need to clean their teeth three times a week, with a brush or with dental treats. Finally, trim their nails every three months. This is both for their health and the health of your home, as their nails can damage your floors. For a big dog like this, it can be a good idea to take them to the vet to get their nails clipped. But if you feel confident to do this at home, check out our list of the best nail clippers. Diet German Shepherd Lab Mixes are big dogs that have lots of energy, but they also have a tendency toward obesity, which means they have to get their energy from good sources. This means high-quality protein and fats over carbohydrates. Preferably this means meals made from quality meats rather than meals or byproducts. When looking at the ingredient list, look for named meats at the first ingredient. Lab German Shepherd Mixes also benefit from novel proteins in their diet, as they can be prone to allergies. Dogs tend to develop allergies to the meats they eat the most, which often means beef and chicken. When they are puppies, Shepradors should be fed three times a day, and this should be cut down to two times a day from about four months of age. As a rule, dogs need 25 to 30 calories per pound of their weight per day, though you should watch their individual weight and energy level to see if you need to adjust their meals up or down. You can also check the label on your dog food to get a rough estimate of how much you should be feeding your Sheprador. Of course the amount will also vary depending on how often you exercise your dog. Known Health Problems While there is no limit to the number of health problems that a dog of any breed can develop, or they might not develop any at all, some dog breeds are more prone to some conditions than others. German Shepherd Lab Mix dogs have the potential to develop the health problems that are common in goth German Shepherds and Labradors. These include: Hip and Elbow Dysplasia — This is a condition where the hip and elbow joints do not develop normally and that can cause extreme pain and arthritis in later life. For more information check out our list of Glucosamine for Dogs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy — This is a group of degenerative diseases that affect the eyes and can lead to blindness. Shepradors are also prone to eat whatever is put in front of them, so you need to be conscious of what you are feeding them. Gastric Dilatation Volvulus — Poor diet can lead the stomach to dilate and expand, in turn leading to a twisting of the stomach that is life-threatening. It can block the flow of blood to the abdomen, leading to rupture of the stomach walls, and put pressure on the diaphragm thereby inhibiting the lungs. Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy — This is a condition that affects the spinal cord and leads to progressive weakness of the hind limbs, and eventually paralysis. Panosteitis — This is an inflammation of the outer surface of the long bones in the legs, resulting in a shifting lameness and making bones more susceptible to breaks. Allergies — Dogs can be born with allergies or develop them over time. Dogs often develop allergies if they eat the same foods consistently. Underactive Thyroid — The thyroid manages hormones, and an underactive thyroid is unable to secrete the required hormones. This can result in weight gain, lethargy, and cold intolerance. At this time, their energy levels will drop and they will need some changes in their diet and exercise. GSD Lab Mix Puppy But no matter how well trained they are, if they are left to get bored for too long, they can engage in some pretty destructive behavior, such as digging and chewing everything in sight. You have been forewarned. The highly assertive nature of German Shepherds means they do not respond well to domination training. They are likely to revolt when subjected to punishment. The best way to train a Labrador German Shepherd Mix is through positive reinforcement. Labradors are pleasers that love to make their humans happy. This means their offspring are also likely to feel the same way. So they will respond rapidly to training based on rewards for positive behavior. Deal with this behavior early, with specific training for dealing with children and strangers. They are very active and need lots of attention, so they need to be in households that support this. But they do great with adults and kids, so they can be a great family pet. Remember that German Shepherd Labrador Mixes need around two hours of exercise every day, so they need someone who can commit to that level of activity. But at the same time, it means they are the type of dog you can take on all of your adventures if you like hiking and trailing. They also need attention and stimulation throughout the day. If anyone in the house suffers with pet hair allergies, this is another reason Labrador German Shepherd Mixes are not the right dog for you, as they shed a lot. Consider something like a Labradoodle or Goldendoodle instead. Also, ask for medical records of the parents, to see what health conditions the pup might be prone to in the future. If you decide to adopt a mature dog, spend a bit of time with them to see what their temperament is like. History of the Breeds German Shepherd German Shepherds originated in Germany in the late 19th century as a sheep herding dog. But, because they are very intelligent, trainable, obedient, and strong, they have since moved into many different working roles including police, military, search and rescue, and disability assistance. German Shepherds can have a reputation for being aggressive, but they are more alert and wary than aggressive. They can have a tendency to become overprotective of family and territory. But if socialized and trained properly, this tendency should be highly manageable. German Shepherds are the second-most popular dog in the United States and the seventh-most popular dog in the United Kingdom. Labrador Labradors, also known as Labrador Retrievers, were initially used in Newfoundland as fishing dogs to retrieve fish that had gotten away. Because they are incredibly friendly but also intelligent and therefore easy to train, today Labradors are favored as disability assistance dogs, often helping individuals with blindness, ptsd, mobility issues and autism. Labradors are the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are intelligent and therefore easy to train, and loving and loyal, so they will quickly feel like part of the family. However, they do need a lot of exercise and attention, so adopting a Sheprador into your family is a commitment. German Shepherds have a reputation for being aggressive, but it is not really deserved. They are natural watchdogs and reserved around strangers, but they are not aggressive dogs that are likely to attack. They are also intelligent and easy to train, which means easy to control. Beagles, Poodles, Boxers, Golden Retrievers and Spaniels are all extremely friendly dogs as well, many specifically bred to be companions. They do best with active people or families who are full of people to love them. Like all dogs, they will do their best when they are cared for properly. This means training them appropriately, exercising them, keeping them mentally stimulated, and feeding them well. But these loyal pooches will repay your care and commitment with a lot of love and affection. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. For a dog to qualify as a German shepherd labrador mix, its parents must be a purebred Labrador and a purebred German shepherd. Parent Breeds This breed is a crossbreed between German shepherd and Labrador retriever parents. As these parent breeds are both large dogs with similar appearances, the resulting mix displays similar looks and personality traits. German Shepherd The German shepherd, or Alsatian, is a large, black-and-tan-colored dog hailing from Germany in the late s. This large breed is good with children and is best suited to active families. Labrador Retriever The Labrador retriever is a large British dog with cream, tan, or black coloring. This friendly, affectionate dog breed was developed from fishing dogs imported to the UK from Newfoundland in the s. Lifespan The German shepherd Labrador mix lives for 10—12 years. Healthy, active dogs that eat nutritious foods and live stress-free lifestyles are likely to live longer. German Shepherd Lab Mix Appearance German shepherd lab mixes are large dogs with medium-dense, short-to-medium-length fur. The dogs are usually black, brown, tan, or a combination of several colors. Height and Weight German shepherd lab mixes are considered large dogs, with a height at the withers of 20—27 inches, and a weight of 75—95 pounds. The size and weight of the dog depend on which parent the mix takes after most — German shepherds are taller and heavier than Labrador retrievers. Colors German shepherd lab mixes are typically black, brown, or tan. Patches of white are common on the neck and muzzle. Blue and red are uncommon colors for a labrashepherd. Occasionally, labrashepherds are all-black, all-brown, or all-cream, resembling the Labrador retriever. Coat The German shepherd lab mix has a medium-dense, double coat that sheds frequently. The outer layer of the coat is long and wiry, and the inner coat is short, thick, and soft. The coat comes in a variety of colors, and the undercoat is a lighter shade than the outer coat. Personality and Temperament German shepherd lab mixes have the combined temperament of the watchful German shepherd and the easygoing Labrador retriever. According to the American Kennel Club temperament guide , Labradors are eager to please, adaptable, outgoing, and intelligent. Meanwhile, German shepherds are fearless, confident, eager, and alert. German shepherds are known to be aloof with strangers, and Labradors suffer from separation anxiety. These two traits are often passed on to the German shepherd lab mix. The confident, loyal, eager nature of the labrashepherd makes it a loyal family pet. Barking The German shepherd lab mix has a low barking tendency. A properly-trained dog will only bark to alert its owners of a potential threat. Keeping a labrashepherd entertained with daily walks and playtime should prevent the dog from barking out of boredom. German Shepherd Lab Mix Care Caring for a German shepherd lab mix is easy as long as you have the budget and the energy to look after a big dog. Labrashepherds need daily long walks, a nutritious diet, and plenty of mental stimulation to live happy, healthy lives. Food Needs Provide your German shepherd lab mix with a high-protein diet suitable for large, high-energy dogs. On average, German shepherd lab mixes need about 3 cups of kibble per day. Use a slicker brush and brush in the direction of hair growth, applying fine strokes that remove dead hairs and mats. Exercise Needs The German shepherd lab mix is an energetic breed that needs at least one hour of daily exercise, divided into two or more walks. Ideally, give your labrashepherd access to your backyard throughout the day between walks to allow your dog to run around and let out energy. Mental Needs Provide at least 30 minutes of daily mental stimulation to keep your German shepherd lab mix happy and satisfied. The breed is intelligent and enjoys playing hide-and-seek, fetch games, and puzzle games with food release toys. Common Health Concerns German shepherd lab mixes inherit some of the common health issues affecting their parent breeds. Obesity Like Labrador retrievers, labrashepherds are prone to overeating and obesity. Lab results have found that Labradors are missing all or part of the POMC gene, which senses body fat storage and regulates appetite. Give this mix plenty of exercise to prevent weight gain. Skin Allergies German shepherd lab mixes are sensitive to mites, dust, pollen, and chemicals, which cause itchy skin and skin allergies. Redness, rashes, persistent itching, infections especially around the ears , and hair loss are all common signs of skin allergies in dogs. Treatment for skin allergies includes diet changes, avoiding triggers, and medication to reduce itching. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a common hereditary condition in large dog breeds, including the Labrador retriever and the German shepherd. The condition causes the hip ball and socket to deteriorate and lose function. This issue commonly affects overweight or under-exercised dogs. Symptoms of hip dysplasia in dogs include decreased range of motion in the back legs, decreased activity, lameness, and limping. The condition is treated with physical therapy, weight reduction, and surgery. Consistent training is important for this breed, so train your dog for at least 15 minutes every day. Start training your puppy from the age of eight weeks old. To prevent this, train your dog during or after a long walk. While the breed mix is affordable to buy, the expense of feeding a large dog is high. The upfront cost of a German shepherd lab mix depends on whether you buy from a reader or adopt the dog from a shelter. Factors that affect the cost of the dog are age, coloring, and whether the dog is adopted or bought from a breeder. Dogs with rare coat colors are more expensive than dogs with common colors. Additional, optional costs are dog sitting and boarding, professional dog grooming, and dog training classes. The German shepherd lab mix is an affectionate, loyal, energetic dog that makes a great family pet. However, this dog has traits that make it unsuitable for some people and lifestyles. Labrashepherds are high-energy dogs that are ideal for active, outdoorsy households. German shepherd lab mixes are responsive to training if proper boundaries are established, so this mix is best suited to people who have the time to train the dogs from an early age. Check out these other hybrid dog breeds: German Shepherd Mixes. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic German Sheprador Highlights The German Sheprador is a mixed breed dog. The main colors of German Shepradors are black, white, red, cream, blue, and grey. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors. While they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job. Many German Shepradors absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also help to keep them cool during hot summer months. German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. Protective in nature, they will alert when strangers approach. They can easily become board, depressed, and frustrated, which will result in unwanted behaviors. German Sheprador History The German Sheprador dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing German Shepherds and Labradors in North America, possibly in the s. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to minimize health problems that affect many purebreds as well as create an ultimate family companion and watchdog. They continued to create German Shepradors as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the German Sheprador got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the dog for you. Check your local shelters, look up German Sheprador rescues, or check with breed-specific German Shepherd and Labrador rescues, as they sometimes help to re-home mixed breeds. German Sheprador Size As the German Sheprador is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between German Shepherd and Labrador parents, you can expect the German Sheprador to be on the large side. Most weigh in at 60 to 95 pounds and range in height from 20 to 27 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. German Sheprador Personality German Shepradors make excellent family companions and watchdogs. However, once they befriend you, you have a friend for life. These pups hail from a line of two working parents. Their German Shepherd parents regularly work as military, police, and guard dogs, while their Labrador Retriever parents have jobs as hunting and guide dogs. German Shepradors like to work and need to have a job to do, whether big or small. Give them a sense of purpose, and this dog will earn their keep ten fold. They are highly trainable, and thrive on positive reenforcement. Do not leave them alone for long periods. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. German Shepradors are prone to weight gain, and they have high energy levels. Make sure your dog gets at least one hour long walk per day with several shorter walks mixed in. Hiking and other adventurous activities are also recommended. Check their ears for debris and pests daily and clean them as recommended by your vet. They should not be clicking against the floor. Your groomer can help with this. You should brush their teeth daily, as this mixed breed is prone to tartar build-up. Normal play on grass is fine, as is puppy agility with its one-inch jumps. Crate and kennel training should start in puppyhood. German Sheprador Feeding An ideal German Sheprador diet should be formulated for a large breed with high energy. They have a tendency to gain weight if they are overfed, so you should stick to a regular feeding schedule and not leave food out during the day. Limit their amount of treats, as well. They usually have medium length, dense coats, and while they are not a good choice of dog for allergy sufferers, their coats are pretty easy to care for. A good brushing per week will probably do the job and bathing is recommended every few months with a mild shampoo. Too much bathing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Their double coats do shed quite a bit. You will definitely want a vacuum on hand. You will need it. Have you tried robot vacuums? See if the Eufy RoboVac is right for you! Their double coat gives them an edge when it comes to extreme weather. Many of these dogs absolutely love to run and play in the snow. Their double coats also helps to keep them cool during hot summer months. Keep in mind they are an indoor dog and need to live indoors. Like all dogs, however, German Shepradors need to be trained how to behave around children and vice versa. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Learn more about this awesome breed by reading about their parent breeds the German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever. German Sheprador Rescue Groups It may be hard to find a breed-specific rescue for German Shepradors because they are a mixed breed. However, you may want to try German Shepherd Dog or Labrador Retriever breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. There is no way to find out if your puppy will develop any of these conditions. All you can do is to take care of your dog properly to prevent some of these severe medical conditions. Your growing dog should maintain a healthy weight because extra weight can be an additional weight on its spine. The ideal dog nutrition will also depend on any nutritional needs of your dog. If you are training your dog, never give treats as a reward. This encourages obesity and will only cause more problems for your dog. Here are top dog food brands that your German Shepherd Lab will surely love. Its core ingredients include ground brown rice, lamb meal, white rice, and chicken. It is all natural and contains no preservatives. Even a picky puppy will surely love this dog food. Precise Holistic Complete Large Breed Adult Formula Precise Holistic contains chicken, brown rice, chicken fat, and oatmeal and is considered the best organic dog food for large dogs. This comes with extra calcium and phosphorus needed by dogs to achieve its full, large size. This is a portion of irresistible dog food for large breed dogs such as your Lab German Shepherd mix. Just like any other dog, never give your German Shepherd Lab the following human food. Not all human food is safe for dogs. Alcohol Chicken bones or cooked chicken bones Grapes or raisins Salty foods and junk food Chocolate, coffee, or tea Onions, chives, and garlic If you want your dog to grow strong and healthy, you need to give them the best care in the world. So, start with their nutrition! That means you need to stay away from the worst dry dog food, and try out the best dry dog food instead. Your hairy friend comes from different parents and therefore you can experiment with the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. Our puppy friends need nutrition that is full of proteins and easy to digest. You can look for some ideas in the best puppy food brands. Senior dogs, in their grandpa style, need food which contains moderate protein levels as in the best senior dry dog food. Because of this, you need to spend ample time in a day to exercise and to walk this dog otherwise; it can develop destructive behavior. Play with your dog regularly to develop a strong bond with your pet. Remember that this dog will love to swim because of its Labrador Retriever lineage. A local dog pool or a pond would work great with your dog. If you have a large yard, an old, large vat will work great just for him to play and cool off. All dogs love to fetch and play Frisbee. Use other kinds of toys like large ropes so you can play pulling games. Use a giant ball for fetches like an old football or a tennis ball. Here are a few ideas 1. This is available in six sizes so you will surely find the best size for your medium to large-sized Lab German Shepherd mix. It is indestructible so your dog will undoubtedly spend hours playing with it. It is made from durable materials that will never break or chip. This is indestructible, and your dog will surely love to play with this over and over again. It is soft but is made to be indestructible. Your pet will surely love to chew on this soft bone. This will be his favorite toy in no time. Lab German Shepherd Mix Training The Lab crossed with a German Shepherd is a brilliant dog, but it may need more than simple traditional training techniques to train this dog. The following tricks will help you make your dog obey you in no time. The Clicker Technique Learn how to train your dog using a clicker. Press this, and you will hear an audible click, a sound that dog loves very much. The clicker may be used in all kinds of tricks, but the most common is for positive reinforcement. Just click the clicker when your dog can follow the trick and then click again if you want to repeat the behavior. Invest in a good clicker which is available in most pet stores online. This can contribute to obesity and other health problems related to being overweight. Reward good behavior by patting your dog, playing with him or giving him a good scratch. Tell your dog what a good dog he is and combines this with a lot of pats as reinforcement. Every dog takes his time so you must be patient. His bed should at the same place where he found it the first time while his food bowls should also be in the same area. Consistency is the key to training dogs important stuff. Also, consider talking to everyone at home regarding your rules and commands to reinforce consistency in training your dog. Train Your Dog In A Familiar Environment Dogs like the Lab are easily distracted; therefore you must train your pup in a quiet and familiar environment first before you take him out for further training. Start inside a quiet room with only you and him. You can train him outdoors once he is less distracted to noise and the presence of other pets and people. You may also opt for professional training for your Lab German Shepherd mix dog if you want your pup to grow up and become a service dog or police dog. German Shepherd Lab Mix and Families Lab German Shepherds can be great family dogs because these dogs love to be with their masters and to please them every way they can. These are patient with children and will never roughhouse or bite. They can even tolerate toddlers and very intense games like dress up and role play games. Lab German Shepherd mix dogs will love to be with other pets and even other dogs. They are not domineering and will never cause a fight. The Lab German Shepherd mix may become anti-social and may become aggressive with people or other dogs when they are not introduced to people and other pets early on. Your dog should be trained first and exposed to other dogs and people to prevent this untoward behavior. Origin of the Black Lab German Shepherd Mix Designer dogs — the result of deliberately crossing two different pedigrees — are a relatively recent phenomenon. But the Labrador and German Shepherd pedigrees both go right back to the 19th century. And understanding their individual histories provides important insights into German Sheprador temperament. Labrador history Labradors were originally bred as hunting dogs, to retrieve fallen waterfowl from the water. Breeders selected breeding dogs for traits which made them great at this job: a strong build, a thick waterproof coat, and an enthusiasm to learn and work in a team with their handler. The best Labs were also gentle and chilled out companions once the hunting day was over. Which is why Labradors exploded so successfully onto the pet scene, and into service roles as well. Unlike Labs, GSDs needed to be able to work confidently at a distance from their handler. They also used to double up as watch dogs and guard dogs, alerting their owner to the arrival of anything unfamiliar, which might be a threat to their flock. Like Labradors, they also proved to be remarkably versatile, and succeed in a wide variety of roles — including police work, military work, narcotics detection, and service roles. What to Expect From a Black Lab German Shepherd Mix The whole purpose of establishing pedigrees for purebred dogs is to ensure that all the puppies descended from that pedigree look and behave in a reliable way. Inevitably, mixing breeds creates possibilities for unpredictable results. Puppies inherit traits from both of their parents at random. Designer dogs with parents who have a lot in common are easier to predict. Puppies from parents who either look very different, or were bred for very different purposes, are more variable. Black Labs can also carry the genes for chocolate and yellow coloring. Some Labs also silently carry the genes for markings like tan points. These genes hark back to when Gordon Setters contributed to the foundation of the breed. So a black Lab German Shepherd mix puppy might be black or dark brown, and have markings including sable shading or tan points. How big do German Shepherd black Lab mixes get? Labradors and German Shepherds are both medium to large sized dogs. Labs weigh 55 to 80 pounds, and GSDs weigh 50 to 90 pounds. For both breeds, females tend to occupy the bottom end of the weight range, and males the upper end. So, a black Lab German Shepherd mix could weigh anything between 50 and 90 pounds too. Their weight will be partly determined by all of the following: the general parameters of the breed the size of their parents their sex and environmental factors, like receiving adequate nutrition in puppyhood. Do black Lab German Shepherd mix dogs shed? Labs and GSDs both have thick double coats — ideal for insulating them against harsh weather conditions whilst working. So, one thing we can say for sure about the black Lab German Shepherd is that they too will be high-shedding dogs. Regular brushing, and seasonal grooming with specialist tools like a Furminator can help to keep your house clear of discarded fur. They also have a strong retrieving instinct — or in other words they like to carry things around in their mouths! Black Labs in particular have traditionally been favored for working roles, so they tend to be focussed and easily motivated to engage in training. German Shepherds are often described as courageous and loyal. They have strong herding and guarding instincts. Part of this is an innate distrust of unfamiliar people. Although, they are devoted and affectionate to their human family and regular guests. They are also very smart, and capable of picking up new cues quickly. But they are both talented problem solvers and quick learners. Sheprador puppies are sure to be smart and trainable too. So, the training and socialization you do with them while they are young will be very important. Puppies under 12 weeks old readily form positive associations with new things, if they have a good first encounter with them. Socialization is particularly important for German Shepherds and their mixes, because they are naturally inclined to be wary of strangers. It gives them the confidence to interact calmly with the world when they are older. Typically friendly breeds like Labs still need socializing too. And very friendly individuals will also need teaching how to greet people calmly, without jumping up or getting over excited. German Shepradors also need methodical leash training from a young age — being dragged along the sidewalk by a large dog is no fun! Exercise Labs and GSDs are both athletic dogs which have been bred to be mentally and physically active for several hours a day. An adult Lab GSD mix dog needs at least 2 hours of walking per day. At home, they enjoy additional games of fetch, tug and scent work. Training and puzzle feeders like Kongs and sniffle mats are valuable for providing mental exercise. A Sheprador is also likely to enjoy dog sports like fieldwork and advanced obedience training. Black Lab German Shepherd Mix Health Just like in every other respect, Sheprador health is a mixed inheritance from both of their parent breeds. Labrador Health.

How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. When considering bringing a new dog into your life, it is always important to consider how long that dog is likely to live. In this article, we will go through exactly how long you should expect your Labradoodle to live, which is largely determined by whether their poodle parent was a standard, miniature, or toy poodle. We will also go through all the different life stages of a Labradoodle and what to expect in each. What Is A Labradoodle? Labradoodles are crossbreed dogs that you get when you mix a Labrador retriever with a poodle. They are varieties that are a mix between a Lab and all the different poodle sizes including standard, miniature, and toy. They were bred because, while the temperament, intelligence, and trainability of Labrador retrievers make them excellent service dogs, they shed—a lot. This can be a huge problem when it comes to taking them into hospitals, public places such as restaurants, and even cleaning up after them at home. Poodles were chosen to crossbreed because they have a low-shedding coat. Their tight, curly coats mean that instead of leaving hair wherever they go, it gets caught up in their coat. Poodles are also highly intelligent dogs, even more intelligent than Labradors, and also very friendly, having been bred as companion animals. They are less outgoing than Labradors, but overall it was thought that they would add to, rather than subtract from, the characteristics that make Labradors excellent service dogs. You can read more about the Labradoodle coat and shedding in this article. How Long Do Labradoodles Live? All Labradoodles have a lifespan of roughly 12 to 14 years. Various factors influence where each dog is likely to fall within this scale. Labrador retrievers and standard poodles both tend to live around 12 years. So if you have a standard Labradoodle, you should probably expect them to have a slightly shorter lifespan at around the year mark. Miniature and toy poodles often live longer, as small dogs tend to live longer in general. So if you have a Lab that is mixed with one of these smaller breeds, you might expect them to live for an additional year or so. While these expectations are based on the average lifespan of their parent pups, some research suggests that crossbreed dogs live longer than their parents, by about a year or two. There are plenty of examples of Labradoodles living well into their late teens. Labradoodle Life Stages Throughout their lives, you can expect your Labradoodle to pass through five main life stages: puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle age, and senior. Exactly when they will pass through each of these stages again depends on whether the Labradoodle is a standard, miniature, or toy cross. Smaller dogs tend to grow to maturity more quickly but then live longer. Conversely, larger dogs stay puppies longer but have shorter overall life expectancies. Puppyhood Labradoodles tend to be classified as puppies for the first five months of their lives. But just like with human babies, because they are growing so quickly at this time, they will pass through a number of different puppy stages. It is during this stage that you will find that littermates love to cuddle up and spend the day sleeping one on top of one another. During this stage, they are more interested in their mother and siblings than there are in people, but they do begin to learn that there is a bigger world and might start to explore a little in the later weeks. It is around this stage that they can also start to move onto dog food. This is often a necessity, as the mother will refuse to suckle them as their growing teeth cause her pain. This is a very important time, as they are also very impressionable. So they need plenty of attention, praise, and love. Training them at this stage will also teach them about action and reward, which will make them easier to train to do other things as adults. They will already understand that correct behavior can result in good things. At this stage, you can also start to expose the puppy to new people and new experiences. This is essential to the socialization process, so that they learn what to do when confronted by the unknown. This is a great time to try to take the puppy with you most everywhere you go. Essential training should continue throughout this stage. Adolescence Much like humans, during this stage Labradoodle puppies seem like they are either eating or sleeping all the time to manage big growth spurts, or getting into trouble. This period tends to last from around five or six months until about two years of age. But they also become more unpredictable as hormones start to play a role. Expect them to want to play all the time, to jump up a lot, and to do things that test your limits. Nevertheless, at this stage your Labradoodle should be fully housebroken, should have passed through that biting phase, and should be better at paying attention to you. They also lose their awkwardness around this age and seem more coordinated. Labradoodles in particular will start to show quite a bit of strength and agility at this stage. They should have all their adult teeth, but they still love to chew! This is something they inherit from the Labrador parent. Make sure to have an abundance of chew toys available to focus their otherwise destructive chewing. It is also during adolescence that territorial behavior tends to kick in. Your pup may become protective of their possessions, territorial of their home, and could start to bark at strangers. Also be aware that at some stage during adolescence—it can vary quite a bit—your dog will become sexually mature. Adulthood Depending on the particular type of Labradoodle that you have, you can expect them to settle down into adulthood at between two and three years of age. They should be about fully grown at this stage. So instead of getting bigger, you need to worry about them getting fatter! While it is natural for them to fill out a bit in the early stages of adulthood, it is important to keep an eye on their weight and their diet at this time. They will enter their physical and mental prime during this period, as they are much calmer and more tranquil. If they are being trained as a service dog, they can start working once they reach adulthood. None of this is to say that Labradoodles cannot continue to develop and learn new things at this time. Labradors and Labradoodles are very easy to train and can be taught new skills and behaviors at almost any age. Middle Age Your dog will start to enter the later stages of their life at about the ripe old age of seven years. At this point, Labradoodles still tend to be active and healthy dogs, but they do start to slow down a bit. It is also at this time that their joints might start to become stiff, and they can begin to develop more serious joint problems. You can try and alleviate this by feeding them supplements to support their joints. You can read more about joint supplements here. Senior When your Labradoodle hits nine or 10 years, they are truly senior and they will probably start to need a bit of extra care and attention. Joint pain is a common problem for Labradoodles, so you may need to make some adjustments to your home to accommodate them. Labradoodles also have a tendency to lose their eyesight in later years, and to feel the cold more intensely. Their appetite is also likely to change as this time, as is their metabolism. So again, watch their weight and what they are eating to maintain them at a healthy weight. This is especially important if they are suffering with joint issues, as excess weight will just make mobility even more challenging. Labradoodles are inclined toward a variety of health conditions, inherited from both their Labrador and poodle parents. The main Labradoodle health conditions to be aware of are: Allergies Labradoodles often develop food allergies, usually in their early years before they reach two years of age. This can often be caused by eating too much of certain foods in these formative months. But Labradoodles can also develop allergies in later life, and you might find that at age eight they are suddenly reacting to something that they have eaten their entire life. Labradoodles usually show an allergic reaction with skin itchiness and an upset stomach. If you notice these signs, visit your vet to try to identify what might be causing the problem. Ear Infections Labradoodles have floppy ears that cover the ear tracts. This means they are generally moist, dark spaces, which means breeding grounds for infections. This is also a common problem for Labradors but can be worse for Labradoodles because the curly hair in their ears can also trap moisture and foreign bodies. If they seem to have itchy ears, or if you notice smells coming from their ears, this is a sign that something is not quite right. This will mean a trip to the vet to determine the type of ear infection and the best treatment. Regular ear cleaning, especially after sleeping or bathing, is the best way to reduce the prevalence of ear infections in Labradoodles. Epilepsy Epilepsy is a neurological condition, of which one of the main symptoms is seizures. Labradoodles are quite prone to this condition. There is no cure, and treatment depends on the severity of the seizures and how often they occur. If your dog rarely has seizures, your vet will probably avoid medication, as it is not worth the risk. You may need to do some things to make your home safer for your dog, making it less likely that they will accidentally hurt themselves in the event of a seizure. Joint Issues Another issue inherited from their Labrador parents, Labradoodles often develop joint issues, especially in the hips, but it can be anywhere. Over time, what was an uncomfortable twinge can develop into serious pain, arthritis, and even lameness. Treatment depends on the severity of the condition. Sometimes joint supplements can be enough to keep your dog comfortable, while in other cases they might need serious pain medication. Progressive Retinal Atrophy This is a condition where a portion of the eye degenerates, eventually leading to blindness. This is quite common in Labradoodles and will usually affect both eyes, resulting in complete blindness. However, it is known to occasionally occur in puppies as well. There is no known treatment, though it is thought that a diet high in antioxidants may be able to help slow the progression of the condition. Signs of the disease include excessive bleeding and bruising where the dog is injured, but also spontaneos bleeds, for example nosebleeds, or blood in their urine or stool. This poses a risk to your Labradoodle throughout their lives, as they may need to avoid certain medications that can further thin the blood, as well as activities where they are at risk of getting injured. If they need surgery for some reason, such as when they are neutered, they will probably also require a platelet transfusion before the surgery. The Verdict When you decide to bring a Labradoodle puppy in your life, you are committing to love and care for that dog for about 12 to 14 years, which is the average lifespan of this crossbreed. During that time, they will pass through a number of different life stages, from being adorable puppies, naughty adolescents appropriately called the terrible twos , intelligent adults, and vulnerable seniors. But throughout all these life stages, a Labradoodle should give you a great deal of love and fulfilment. Do you have a Labradoodle? What is your experience living with these wonderful dogs? Share your thoughts in the comments section below or via our social media. Related Article. Older Labradoodle Puppies for Sale Puppies with a little training and Older dogs ready for new homes. Many reasons lead people to look for an older puppy or a dog that will require less training or time commitment than an 8 week old puppy. We are lucky at Great Day Labradoodles to have some options available to meet these needs. When possible we send a pup or two off to trainers to live with them from age 8 weeks to 10 or 12 weeks old. These pups will be posted here along with their ready date and price. Pictures and videos updated weekly with their achievements. They will have completed temperament testing and we can match them to your application then they can be reserved at any point throughout their training process. Additional time with the trainer is possible. Older dogs listed here have come about for any number of reasons. Our puppy contract requires that anytime a customer cannot keep their dog, it comes back to Great Day for re-homing. We will do our best to describe the dogs temperament, quirks and ideal situation. They will go to a new home with a mandatory 10 day trial period to make sure we have a good fit. Typically when re-homing a dog over 2 years old we like to keep them local and make that trial period convenient. All puppies and dogs require direction in their new homes. Months of training will not teach them where your doggy door is where to go when you tell them to lie down. Spending a little time with the trainer and understanding how to communicate to them will vastly improve results. A 30 minute session at time of pick up is included with purchase price. If you would like to contact Laura about training your dog of any age you can reach her at .Available Australian Bernedoodles Puppies born June 1, they will be mediums with a curly fleece like Gypsy or soft fleece like Sarge. Gypsy weighs 30 lbs, and Sarge is 35 lbs. Sarge is a mini F1 Bernedoodle, so these pups will be Australian Bernedoodles, our first litter! He has a beautiful, thick structure and will add some nice bulk to the pups in his litter. Looking forward to very steady pups, extra kid friendly and easygoing. These pups now sleep through the night, have been well socialized on the farm and gaining new skills daily. He is medium size approx 30 to 35lbs , with a loose curl non shedding silky soft fleece coat. He is dark chocolate colored He is a laid back and very sweet, he is a goofy boy. He is a fun loving comical young dog, he will have you laughing. He is doing very well with his puppy training and eager to please. He would make a great family companion in any household. He is crate trained and knows how to use a dog door. He is good for the groomer and up to date on all puppy care. We do not leave him unattended in our home as he is still a puppy. He will need redirecting in his new home as he has only know our home our family and friends, this will take about a week or two. Her parents are Charlie and Hero. She is a very happy go lucky little girl, with a loving personality. She is well socialized and she is good with children. Buttons is doing well with puppy training and she is eager to please which has made her easy to train. She is crate trained and knows how to use a dog door. She sits, comes when called and we are working on the leash. She is very easy to groom and up to date on all shots and puppy care. We do not leave her unattended in our home as she is still much a puppy. She will need redirecting in her new home as she has only know our home our family and friends, this will take about a week or two. She can be spayed at 8 month. He is standard size approx 50 to 60lbs , with a wavy curl non shedding fleece coat and he is beautiful blue merle color. He has a very laid back disposition and a goofy but sweet personality. He is doing well with his puppy training and eager to please. She is a mini to small medium size approx 25lbs , with a loose curl non shedding fleece coat. She is a chocolate merle with a white chest,one green eye and one blue eye. Blossom is a happy playful little girl with comical personality. She loves playing in the water and she is a very social with everyone she meets. She is very smart and eager to learn which has made her easy to train. Blossom is crate trained and knows how to use a dog door. She does very well for the groomer and she is easy to bathe. She comes when called sits and she is walking on a harness and leash. She is also doing well in our home however I do not leave her unattended in our home as she is still a puppy. Blossom is up-to-date on all shots and worming and she can be spayed at 8 months of age. He is medium size approx 35 to 40lbs , with a curly non shedding coat. He is a red phantom with a with white on his chest. He is a very laid back little lover boy. He is medium size 35 to 40 lbs with a curly non shedding coat. Cyress is doing well with his puppy training, eager to please. He would make a great therapy companion. He is good for the groomer and eager to please. Why choose an older puppy? We have raised these puppies in our home from birth and are much further in their development. Depending on the age, they may already be crate trained, doing well with potty training, basic puppy training, etc. They are very well socialized with other dogs and lots of people. Many bad habits that puppies form from age eight weeks on will be avoided, such as chewing, barking, jumping on you, etc. Why do we have these puppies? Often times they are breeding prospects held back as potentials and then released. A few are selected to be raised into older puppies for people wishing for a puppy that has started training as a family member or as therapy and service companions. Older dogs available: Why choose an adult dog? Trained, loving dogs! Why do we have adult dogs available? These dogs are awesome! Raised by a family or us in their home as a guardian family. Additionally, we are committed to a lifetime of support for our dogs and their families. Please fill out our online puppy application if you are interested in one of our puppies. To adopt a puppy, please fill out our online application ; no deposit is required until your application has been reviewed and approved. These puppies are priced according to their age and level of training. All older puppies are in excellent health and will be spayed or neutered according to age. Our puppies have a 3-year health guarantee and are up to date on age-appropriate vaccinations, worming, grooming, and a flea treatment. You may qualify for guardianship. There are often older dogs and puppies available in our guardian program. It takes traits from both breeds, and new puppy owners will quickly see this combination was chosen intentionally. The Labrador retriever is an intelligent, loyal breed with an excellent temperament for nearly any family or living situation. Unfortunately, these dogs also shed a lot, which can be a hassle. It also makes a Labrador a poor choice for public social situations, such as outdoor dining at dog-friendly patios. Instead, the coat traps dirt, allergens, loose hair and other debris inside it. This means less shedding but also means daily brushing is required. The poodle is also an intelligent breed that makes a perfect addition to most homes since it was bred to be a companion animal. Any puppy is a lifelong commitment. Understanding what to expect at every life stage will help you prepare to give your cute little puppy a long, prosperous, happy life. A normal-sized labradoodle will live an average of 12 to 14 years. Smaller labradoodles resulting from a miniature or toy poodle crossbreed will generally live a little longer. However, you must remember that this lifespan is only an average. There are plenty of labradoodles who live into their late teens. A healthy diet, regular exercise and periodic vet visits are crucial to your labradoodle puppy living a long, healthy life. These main life stages include puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood, middle-aged and senior. Each life stage is discussed in more detail below. Puppyhood If you adopt a labradoodle puppy, this will be the first stage you get to witness. A labradoodle puppy will remain in this life stage from birth until five or six months. Birth to 7 Weeks From birth until about seven weeks of age, labradoodle puppies stay close to their mother. They spend all their time eating, sleeping, growing and cuddling with their littermates. As they get closer to seven weeks of age, they may begin exploring their world a little. Around seven weeks of age, a labradoodle puppy will start becoming more interested in people. This is also when it begins forming bonds with you and other humans in the home or family. These adorable puppies will become more playful and curious at about eight weeks old. Instead, you want to create only positive experiences during this time to ensure it grows into a secure young adult dog. This is the perfect time to start positive training techniques. Teaching your labradoodle puppy about action and reward now will benefit its lifelong training. During this stage of puppy development, socialization is crucial. Now is the perfect time to take it to new places, introduce it to new people and provide it with new experiences. The most important part of this stage of puppy development is that your pup becomes a free and independent thinker. With its curiosity at an all-time high, this is the perfect time to bring your new companion everywhere. Socialization and bonding are other vital aspects of this stage of puppy development. Pet owners will find their puppy wants to be with them all the time and may become mildly anxious when separated from them. Most of its time will be spent eating, sleeping or getting into trouble. Your growing canine should have lost its baby teeth, have all its adult teeth and be out of the biting stage it may have had during puppyhood. Thanks to the Labrador genes, your labradoodle will always love to chew. You can stop destructive chewing behaviors by providing a chew toy or two or 20 to keep it occupied. It may become territorial, but regular socialization can help ease these issues. Your labradoodle will also begin showing quite a bit of strength, so continuing its training during this time is crucial. Acting out, wandering and even behaving aggressively are all normal during this time. Adulthood For a labradoodle, adulthood starts somewhere between two or three years of age and lasts until around its seventh birthday. During adulthood, labradoodles are at their prime. Their adult coat will grow in, which may be thicker or denser than their puppy coat. This breed is very intelligent and easy to train, so if you want to keep teaching it new tricks, you can. Weight Management Your labradoodle will reach its adult size between two and three years old. They can tell you if your dog is a normal size or needs diet and exercise. Middle-Aged Your doodle puppy will turn middle-aged around seven years old. This life stage is relatively brief and only lasts until the dog turns nine or .During middle age, most dogs are still active and overall healthy. It may exercise less and sleep a little more as it transitions between adulthood and its golden years. A middle-aged dog may begin to develop some health problems, especially as it gets closer to its senior years. The primary issues of concern are obesity, joints and teeth. The teeth and joints will become especially vulnerable during this stage, so you must take your dog for regular teeth cleaning and wellness visits. In addition, your vet may recommend supplements to protect the joints. Extra weight will also place unnecessary additional stress on the joints and heart of your dog. Senior Your dog will officially be considered a senior from around nine to 10 years of age until the end of its life. During their golden years, your labradoodle will require extra care and attention. Health problems are most likely to occur during these years, and your vet may suggest two annual well visits instead of only one. After 10 years of age, your dog will likely encounter issues staying warm. You might consider a heating blanket in their bed, keeping the house slightly warmer during winter or providing extra blankets to snuggle under. Your dog may also have problems with its eyesight. The most common issue for senior labradoodles is their joints, which tend to ache as they get older. In addition, they may have mobility problems caused by sore and stiff joints. For example, consider a ramp to help it get into the car or up your porch steps. Developing one or more health problems could mean a shorter lifespan for your labradoodle. A few of the most common health problems affecting labradoodle puppies or adults include: Allergies usually to food Ear infections which can lead to hearing loss after repeat infections Epilepsy. Most 12 week old Labradoodle puppies can wait two hours between pees. If your puppy is having accidents before this time, go back to an easier schedule for a while for them. This stage is one of the most full on for puppies. Their confidence has grown and they are easily excited. Try not to play physically with your puppy, rough housing and wrestling are not likely to end well. Instead use toys and training to build up your bond. If your puppy bites your hands, stand up and walk away. Put them into their crate if you can do so, or just leave the room so that there is a barrier between you. Over time their bite inhibition will improve if you stay calm and never allow them to be rewarded for their mouthing. Chewing and Destructive Behavior Chewing and destructive behavior are very common with puppies, and the best way to tackle this is with prevention. If there is a type of material your puppy is focussing on, like your wooden furniture, make sure that they have a toy of the same material that you can direct their attention onto. Labradoodle Puppy Socialization Puppies need to be exposed to lots of new experiences before they are four months old. This helps them to happily accept new people, places, sounds and smells as they grow older and become more cautious. At twelve weeks old you should aim to have four different sets of guests over to your home and backyard during the week. And try to visit four totally varied new places with your puppy. Good locations to take them include bus stations, pet stores, and the school gates. They spend a lot of their day running around and playing, burning off lots of energy and building up those little muscles. Your main focus should be on getting off on the right foot with training. Think about the way you want your puppy to behave around your home and when you take them out as an older dog. Most owners want their dogs to be able to have fun in the dog park or backyard, but to relax indoors and around their human family. Reward the Relax You can encourage calm behavior by rewarding your pup for relaxing. Catch them in the act whenever they are laying down resting or sitting relaxing, by popping a few bits of kibble calmly by their feet. Early stages of sit can be taught from this stage by capturing the position using a clicker. Click and treat when they sit down, and start to build up those positive associations before adding your sit cue. Come Here! Help your dog to start developing a good recall early by blowing their recall whistle when you give them their dinner. When outdoors blow the whistle whenever they are running full pelt towards you, and give them lots of treats when they arrive. If they are reluctant make sure you are unpredictable in your movements to keep them interested, and try falling to the floor to encourage them to pounce up to you! Heelwork We prefer to teach a dog to walk nicely next to you without the leash to begin with. This is a great age to reward your dog for getting into heel, using a clicker to mark the position. Feeding your 12 week old Labradoodle At twelve weeks old your Labradoodle should be eating a high protein, high fat food with minimum fillers, designed for medium to large breed puppies. You will need to be careful not to get them too excited, and have a good schedule for mealtimes and potty training. Socialization is nearing its end for your puppy now, so make sure that you use these last few weeks wisely and help them to have lots of varied experiences. This will help them to grow into a confident, happy member of your family. More On Labradoodle Growth and Development.

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