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More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Regardless of generation, golden doodles have a consistent record of being extremely intelligent, easily trained, and most importantly, having a loving, friendly, outgoing temperament. F1 doodles possess all of the wonderful traits that make retrievers and poodles such desirable pets. This includes incredible intelligence, a loving demeanor, and hypoallergienic qualities. This makes them better for homes with only slight or moderate allergies. F1 doodles tend to have a shaggy or wavy coats, but can occasionally have a very curly coat. This generation has become the most popular generational breed for those looking for the most hypoallergenic dog. F1Bs are the best option for families with moderate to severe allergies. They are known to exhibit the same favorable personality traits and behaviors as F1 doodles with the exception of shedding! F1B doodles came in a wide range of colors depending on their family pedigree. We strive to produce puppies with the very best temperaments and personalities, and the health and overall condition of our puppies is a top priority. All of our puppies come with a two-year health guarantee, have been vet-checked, have received their first shots and have been wormed on a regular basis. We provide thorough socialization, as all of our puppies are raised in our home with our four children, our four goldendoodles and one bernedoodle furbabies, and loving extended family. Our puppies will be exceptional due to our high standard breeding methods, the intensive level of care we provide, and most importantly, the tremendous love we have for these amazingly intelligent, sweet, and loving furbabies. So, if you would like more information about our puppies, please fill out the puppy application on our website. We will call you to discuss your preferences and our upcoming litters. She weighs 42lbs and is red in color. She was bred with Enzo, and F1 miniature weighing 35lbs. Their pups will be F2b and should range between lbs. They will be ready to go home at the end of April. Pictures of Ana, Enzo, and their last litter are posted below. She weighs 78 lbs and has tri color markings like a Bernese Mountain Dog. She was bred with Charlie, and moyen poodle weighing 35lbs. Their pups will be F1b and should range between lbs. Pictures of Winnie, Charlie, and their last litter are posted below. If you are interested in a puppy, please fill out a puppy application and email it back to us at saratogagoldendoodles gmail. We will, however, refund the deposit if there is only one puppy left to choose from and this puppy is not a good match for your family! If this occurs you can switch your deposit to another puppy or litter, or we will refund the deposit for you. We do understand all too well that lives change and sometimes getting a puppy needs to wait. So if you are unable to take a puppy when we call, you may use your deposit for a future litter or depending on the circumstances, at our discretion, we may refund your deposit. We do reserve the right to refuse sale to any person whom we feel is not the best choice for one of our fur-babies. Please see the "Right of Refusal" section below. As soon as our puppies are born, I call all of the families on the deposit list. People chose their puppy in the order that their deposits arrived and based on our recommendations. We ultimately will decide if a puppy you are thinking of choosing is a best fit. We also reserve the right to hold certain puppies for individuals that have health related concerns severe allergies, anxiety, autism, to name a few that require a certain type of coat or personality. You can opt to take that spot or wait on another litter. Families will come in, one at a time according to their deposit order. Should you come and not fall in love with one of our fur-babies or find the right match, you can choose to pass to another litter. The remainder of the purchase price is paid on the day the puppy is picked up or delivered to you. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Albany New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted!
This is not true. They have a large, muscular build They have a fluffy tail Their ears are erect They have a double coat They are heavy shedders They are a solid black color They can be larger They often have a straighter back Their coat can be longer, sometimes with a flowing mane around the rear of the neck , skirting on either side of the body between the front and back legs and feathering long hair on the ears, backs of legs and beneath the tail 3. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black All German Shepherd puppies are either born black, gray or white and can change color as they grow. Their true coat color can usually be determined at about 8 weeks of age. Black German Shepherd puppies are born black and will stay black through adulthood. So, if you are looking for a solid Black German Shepherd puppy, you will want to get her at this age, and not before, in order to be sure she is indeed a solid black color. A German Shepherd that is, say, black and tan, can carry the recessive solid black gene and produce Black German Shepherd puppies. However, both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. It can happen. The second way solid Black German Shepherd puppies are produced is by mating two solid blacks. This mix can only produce a solid black litter. The color of this dog does not affect its temperament. The Black German Shepherd is just as loyal, alert, active and intelligent as the standard variety and is not predisposed to aggression. She is often aloof at first, but once you bond with her, she will be your companion for life. Black German Shepherds are also incredibly trainable and are used as police and military dogs, disability aid dogs, and obedience dogs. Look how obedient this month old Black Shepherd puppy is: Just like any German Shepherd, their protective instinct can be strong. These are dogs that were used to herd and protect livestock, and they will do the same with their human pack! In the case of your family coming into danger, have no doubt this dog will defend you. As a companion dog, however, you want her to recognize that not all people are a threat. Make sure you socialize her from a young age so that she gets on well with people in adulthood. They can be pricey Black German Shepherds are quite rare and for this reason tend to cost more, especially if they have the long, luxurious coat. Like all German Shepherds, they are prone to health problems The German Shepherd breed can, unfortunately, suffer from numerous health issues. The number one concern for this breed is hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. This condition occurs when the ball and socket joint is malformed and can result in arthritis or even lameness. This can be helped by maintaining a healthy weight in your dog. Other potential health problems include: Heart disease. It lacks the physical deformities bred into western show lines of German Shepherds and has become one of Russia's most popular dog types. It was developed in the s and s to correct behavioural and conformational issues that have been bred into modern German Shepherds, and was bred for its large size, length of back, temperament and soundness of hips. White-coated German Shepherds were once banned from registration in their native Germany, but in the United States and Canada the coloration gained a following and a breed club was formed specifically for white German Shepherds, calling their variety the White Shepherd. The variety is recognised as a separate breed by the United Kennel Club. It descends from the American White Shepherds; the first stud dog of what was to become the breed was an American dog born in and imported to Switzerland. They are especially well known for their police work, being used for tracking criminals, patrolling troubled areas and detection and holding of suspects. Additionally, thousands of German Shepherds have been used by the military. These military working dogs MWD are usually trained for scout duty, and they are used to warn soldiers to the presence of enemies or of booby traps or other hazards. They were used in World War II as messenger dogs, rescue dogs and personal guard dogs. These include search and rescue, cadaver searching , narcotics detection, explosives detection , accelerant detection and mine detection dog, among others. They are suited for these lines of work because of their keen sense of smell and their ability to work regardless of distractions. When formal guide dog training began in Switzerland in the s under the leadership of Dorothy Eustis , all of the dogs trained were German Shepherd females. These results suggested that Labrador Retrievers were more suited to guide dog work while German Shepherds were more suited to police work. They are expected to patrol the boundaries to keep sheep from trespassing and damaging the crops. In Germany and other places these skills are tested in utility dog trials also known as Herdengebrauchshund HGH herding utility dog trials. He is regarded to be the dog who has captured the most drugs in Mexican police and military history. You may improve this section , discuss the issue on the talk page , or create a new section, as appropriate. By this number had grown to over .Returning soldiers spoke highly of the breed and animal actors Rin Tin Tin and Strongheart popularised the breed further. Her offspring had defects as the result of poor breeding, which caused the breed to decline in popularity during the late s. As of [update] , the German Shepherd is the second most popular breed in the US. Degenerative myelopathy , a neurological disease, occurs with enough regularity specifically in the breed to suggest that the breed is predisposed to it. A very inexpensive DNA saliva test is now available to screen for degenerative myelopathy. The test screens for the mutated gene that has been seen in dogs with degenerative myelopathy. The test is only recommended for predisposed breeds, but can be performed on DNA samples from any dog, collected through swabbing the inside of the animal's cheek with a sterile cotton swab. Prospective German Shepherd buyers can now request the test from the breeder or buy from a breeder who is known to test their dogs. Skeletal health and supplementation[ edit ] Musculoskeletal disorders are debilitating conditions that are often associated with genetic makeup, malnutrition, and stress-related events. Canine hip dysplasia CHD is an orthopaedic condition resulting from abnormal development of the hip joint and surrounding tissue causing the instability and partial dislocation of the hip joint, resulting in pain, inflammation , lameness, and potentially osteoarthritis of the joint. Both have stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. A German Shepherd named Inspector Rex is the star of an Austrian Police procedural drama program of the same name, which won many awards, where German Shepherd Rex assists the Vienna Kriminalpolizei homicide unit. It became one of the staple productions of Hungarian television history, making German Shepherds the most popular dog breed in the country ever since. Some owners refer to them as black and champagne or fawn. Also, when a white German Shepherd has red in its background, it shows up as a cream color. It is possible for particular black and cream German Shepherd puppies to grow into a black and tan look as they get older. Still, you cannot guarantee how the colors will shift or if they will change in the first place. Dog shows aside, black and cream dogs do not have the same intimidating look as darker dogs and can make for great gateway pets for those looking to adopt their first dog but find the alternative looks more intimidating. Ideal for: Households with young children can adopt black and cream puppies as these GSDs are easier to accept for little kids. Black All Black German Shepherds have no shot at dog shows but are much better at something else: guarding. This perception comes with the added assumption that your black German Shepherd is well-trained to deal with intruders. Even though these dogs are great at discouraging intruders, they have excellent temperaments and empathy to be family dogs. Black GSDs are not more aggressive than other varieties. Unlike solid black, most puppies only show their actual color weeks after birth. They also make shedding less annoying as the black hairs are less visible. A recessive gene causes the black color. Some black dogs have gold eyes, as shown in the image. Large houses are also perfect spacious places where such dogs must exhaust their excess energy. A bi-color features two colors, one of which is often black. Most will appear all black with brown feet or legs, as shown in the image. The AKC pioneered this categorization and is most relevant to dog shows where solid colors and bi-color dogs are judged differently. Depending on the specifics of the color, the dog-and-owner fit can vary. Sable Sable is a pattern often seen as color because of its visual impact. The sable color is named after the mammal sable, which also has a similar color. This type of German Shepherd has black peppered across its fur, giving a deeply crimson color that looks nearly indistinguishable from black and liver. The sable coat pattern appears visibly black as each hair has a black tip. Sable colors include black sable, gray sable, tan sable, red sable, and silver sable. If you like the look of this color pattern, head over to this article to learn loads more about this gorgeous variety; Sable German Shepherd. Ideal for: This shepherd dog is best for those living in sun-kissed suburbs where the true color of sable German Shepherds shines. White Featuring the look of a bleached wolf, the all-white German Shepherd is entirely white and represents quite the irony. It is often purchased because of its exotic looks but is also seen as flawed enough to disqualify from the show ring. In other words, it represents the positive and the negative results of judging dogs by their looks, where they are simultaneously loved and discriminated against because of their color. Given that the first German Shepherd was black, this dog is visually the farthest from its ancestors. There is often a misconception that this type is a mixed breed. However, the white German Shepherd is definitely purebred. Ideal for: Families with young toddlers can benefit from getting a non-intimidating dog. This leaves behind bi-color German Shepherds featuring black and a specific hue of tan that gives an overall deep gray look. Ruskin House of Shepherds They are often gray sable. However, many gray dogs have no black pigmentation, differentiating them from the sable. They have an aesthetic appearance and can tip top between work and show, though they are best kept as multifunctional pets. They look intimidating enough for strangers but acceptable even for younger children who have never had a big dog as a family pet. Nonetheless, they are pretty rare, so you may have to find a specialized breeder to adopt one. The color is rare because it is improbable to guarantee when breeding a single blue stud and rare to occur spontaneously. And the ones who breed rare GSDs only charge a lot per puppy. Since blue is a manifestation of black, it can appear in all German Shepherd looks that feature the black color. Therefore, these dogs are bred mainly in the working line, where black and tan are the most common colors. That makes blue and tan the most common bi-color look of blue German Shepherds. Ideal for: Individuals looking for an exotic, rare dog with a story would love to have a blue German Shepherd. Liver Liver as a color term is used almost exclusively to describe dark brown dogs. The shades of dark brown can vary, but the term stands. It is no different for German Shepherds, who are also categorized as a liver for being dark brown. With black not really being seen as color — white as a complete lack of color, brown has the best shot of getting the highest points for color richness — except in the show world. This is because the American Kennel Club sees livers as faults, and they cannot enter the show ring. However, liver German Shepherds are highly sought-after, making them some of the priciest German Shepherds to acquire. Still, their price is artificially inflated because of demand. Ideal for: Those who love the deep brown aesthetic will love a liver German Shepherd. Liver and Tan As mentioned earlier, German Shepherds with liver parents are pretty often liver-colored. While mutations did occur to manifest this look into the otherwise black line of GSDs, the genes of these dogs are relatively stable, making them great studs. Ideal for: Owners with prominently brown wardrobes can get a kick by extending their color preference to their dogs. Isabella Isabella German Shepherds face the same ironic fate as white GSDs, where they are simultaneously admired and acquired for their beauty yet disqualified or marked down from shows for their looks. Similar to liver dogs, the AKC views them as a fault. Isabella GSDs look lavender-flavored cappuccino in that they are a light lilac color. They have a distinctly feminine appearance regardless of gender and can make a beautiful addition to the family. Because of their non-threatening looks, they are readily accepted in suburban communities, whereas new pets can often get scrutinized unfairly. Isabella GSDs are rare because they come from a combination of recessive traits that might not even manifest in studs. Studs often have desirable dominant features, including rich colors. The Isabella color comes from the combination of liver and blue, one of which is rarely used for breeding. This leaves room only for blue genes to pass through non-blue studs, which is not entirely likely. Ideal for: Those who want to make a statement with one of the rarest German Shepherds will be satisfied with an Isabella dog. However, they better be willing to pay the premium. You cannot have a Sable Shepherd without having reddish fur. But the distribution of red and black or silver and a lot of black is what matters: the lighter coat makes up the backdrop over which the darker fur is peppered. Ruskin House of Shepherds Sable shepherds are rarely sable all over, and portions of their body feature only one of the two colors that make up their sable pattern. In other words, given black and red as primary sable-makers, these dogs are more likely to be black and sable or red and sable. Sometimes you can get a rarer color sable, such as the liver sable in the image. Brindle German Shepherds are the closest to sable in that they also consist of one color peppered across another in tiger stripes or a marbled pattern. Instagram: alastian. Black is far more prominent, and these dogs are the closest to the second generation of German Shepherds. Panda A Panda German Shepherd looks like a white or bi-color dog who tried to apply eye shadow for the first time. The area around their eyes is black, reminiscent of a panda. They have white color featured across their chest, limbs, feet, and tail tip, similar to a Border Collie. Panda Shepherds do not have any other similarities with the panda; the dog has an active temperament compared to the lazy panda. The gene is dominant, meaning it only takes one parent to replicate the pattern. It is also seen as a fault for conformation. My German Shepherd Pup Willow Still, getting a German Shepherd puppy with many white spots is a risk if you plan to enter him in a dog show as an adult. But if you do not care about dog shows, the white markings can be charming. It is rarer to find white spotting in black GSDs. These spots are more common in black and red, black and cream, black and tan, and liver variations. However, they blended in with her adult coat in time. A German Shepherd can have a black, blue, silver, or brown saddle though other colors are not definitively excluded. Saddle-back German Shepherds have to be bi-color by definition because the saddle is visible only in contrast with another, often lighter, color. Blanket The blanket is yet another pattern independent of color. Just like with saddle GSDs, being bicolor is a prerequisite just to spot the blanket. The saddle pattern has a better shot at dog shows between saddle German Shepherds and blanket ones. Since the blanket is dark, dogs with this pattern have an intimidating presence and are often used by the police and protective patrols. This makes them excellent guard dogs as they carry the same connotations. Mask Mask refers to the face of a German Shepherd with visible contrast in the face compared to the surrounding region. On the one side, they can have black fur over their faces, which gives the appearance of a mask, but the rest of their body can feature stripes brindle or the sable pattern. This study of dogs with colored masks found that the mask is caused by a specific allele referred to as a melanistic mask. Mask German Shepherds have a unique appeal, which makes people go to great lengths to acquire them. The mask is almost always black. In case the mask is a lighter color, it is categorized differently. The area around the mouth can be lighter, making the German Shepherd look more like a wolf. Some reverse masks also have a dark stripe down the muzzle, as in the image shown. Needless to say, these German Shepherds can be pricey simply because of their resemblance with wolves. They also are intimidating again because of this similarity. All the connotations they have with wolves, and their wildness come in handy when scaring away intruders. However, this is a myth, as they are as easy or difficult to raise as regular dogs. To breed them, you must have both the mother and the father, who carry the same reverse mask look. Like the masked variety, German Shepherds with a reverse mask can have other patterns as the mask or the reverse has to do with their faces. Speaking of wolves, the closest a GSD can come to having a wolf-like appearance is to have a reverse mask look and be a blanketed silver sable. The rarest color of German Shepherd is Isabella, which is also known as lilac. Not only is this color visually appealing, but it is also difficult to predict when breeding. The recessive blue and liver getting combined are not very likely, which makes almost all Isabella shepherds pleasant surprises. Getting a lilac shepherd from a reputable breeder is advisable because unscrupulous breeders may repeatedly breed puppies and neglect the non-isabella dogs hoping to profit from the lilac pups. Black is prominent across most variations of GSDs. From black and tan, often working lines, to black and red for showing, most German Shepherds have a hint of black. If you are looking for the most common overall color of a German Shepherd, the two that come out on top are black and red and black and tan. The show line dog of this bicolor look will be the cheapest yet will command a price significantly higher than a working dog of the same pair of colors. Some German Shepherd colors, such as blue and white, are controversial because they have been linked to genetic health issues, such as skin problems and deafness. Breeders who prioritize these colors over health can perpetuate these issues. Yes, the color of a German Shepherd puppy can be predicted based on the colors of the parents and the genetic inheritance of the color genes. By understanding the basics of color genetics, breeders can make educated guesses about the colors of their puppies. Do German Shepherds Change Color? German Shepherds do change color, especially if they are bicolor. This happens when they mature and shed certain colored fur but never grow it back. The color change is most prominent in brindle GSDs and sable shepherds, as the decrease in one shade of fur leads to a change in the overall look of the dog. No, the color of a German Shepherd does not affect its temperament. Temperament is determined by genetics and upbringing, not color. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are descendants of dark dogs but have come a long way since they were first shown as the perfect cross between beautiful and work-ready. GSD colors can vary from lighter ones like the rare Isabella all the way to solid black. The pattern variations include mask, sable, brindle stripes, and saddle, whereas colors can be solid or pair from the pool of black, red, tan, blue, silver, cream, liver, white, and gray. With over 30 years of experience working with dogs, this former Police Officer has seen it all. Find her on Linkedin! Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Finding a responsible breeder is an important part of getting a dog. Why pricing matters, not all dog breeders charge the same prices. My Story, How it worked out for me, and what I learned about purchasing a puppy. The black German Shepherd was the first dog that I have ever owned. I just love how beautiful the solid back color looked. Is the black German Shepherd Right for you? He told me that the solid black German Shepherd was the color people were looking for along with the black and tan and black sable color. These were becoming the most popular color he was selling. Why, because more breeders were starting to see other GSD breeders selling more puppies with the popular colors. They decided they needed to start breeding these colors too. The more popular color, the more demand for breeding them. It makes sense to me. Now over the years of owning multiple German Shepherds, I have black, black, and tan colors and solid black. Now, I like to take you back to the year when I purchase my first black German Shepherd. Everywhere I went people stop and ask me questions about the color because they have never seen a black German Shepherd before. I have one guy ask me how much I pay for my dog, and I told him the cost was .But for me, I was happy to pay for the color. I got the exact temperament dog that I was looking for. Now you will pay anywhere from .The shipping cost runs around .Do black German shepherd puppies stay black? If you see a dark brown that would be a black sable color. Are all German Shepherd puppies born black? All puppies are born black and will stay black throughout their adulthood. This is a must-have Both parents must have the recessive gene for solid black to appear in the litter. This is why we get a lot of good mixes of both colors in our puppies. Black sable male puppy. Anywhere from 10 weeks to 14 weeks of age, the ears will start to stand on their own. How much does a German Shepherd cost? Anywhere from .My puppies sell for .This is important for you to understand before you buy a German Shepherd Puppy or adult trained German Shepherd dog. Now, I like to give you a good base price on what you and I would pay for a GSD puppy that was six months old to 12 months old, that already has been trained with basic obedience training and properly socialized and housebroken by a good trainer. The cost would be around six-month-old .There are a lot of breeders out there, who will charge more for a solid black puppy. In the last litter, I had four black and four black dark black sable color puppies. I sold my puppies for the same price. But a lot of German Shepherd breeders do. How many puppies do German shepherds have in their first litter? When it comes to breeding dogs, anything can happen. There are no guarantees. I have seen GSD dogs bred that sometimes only had one single puppy. The normal litter size is about 8 puppies. But I have seen some females that have bred up to 10 puppies at a time. The last litter I bred had 8 beautiful healthy puppies. A good friend of mine had bred his German Shepherd and had 12 puppies. But most of the time eight puppies are a normal litter size. Is a German Shepherd a good family dog? Are you considering bringing a puppy into your home? If so, you should do a fair amount of research into the hundreds of breeds that are available both for purchase and adoption. Considered by many to have the most beautiful coloration in the breed, the all-black GSD is quickly gaining popularity as a pet. If the stunning good looks of the black GSD are attractive to you, here are some things that you should consider before bringing that adorable puppy home. About the Breed The German shepherd dog originated in Germany in .A working dog in the herding group, the GSD was originally bred to herd and guard sheep. The breed is amazingly intelligent, fiercely loyal and protective of its human family. The breed is also extremely popular in the United Kingdom, with over 8, currently registered. The all-black German shepherd dog is a striking animal to look at and is becoming the popular variant of choice among new owners. Family The GSD is an excellent family dog, provided that it is well socialized and raised with children. Though these dogs bond deeply with children whom they have been raised with, they can be nervous and skittish around strange children and adults alike. If you choose to bring home a GSD puppy, be sure that you have a plan in place to socialize the dog. Additionally, if you choose to rescue an adult GSD, you should ensure that the dog has been raised with, or at least socialized with, people of all ages to ensure the safety of your family and friends. Teaching German shepherd dogs are incredibly smart and eager to learn. Teaching should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. The easiest way to begin teaching your black German shepherd puppy is to set a schedule and stick to it. Dogs, especially GSDs, thrive with routine and are happiest when they know what to expect. Training Because of their intelligence, high work drive, and loyalty, German Shepherds excel at obedience, agility, herding, protection, and even flyball. If you plan on bringing home a GSD, you must enroll in some type of formal training. If your GSD is not permitted to drain its energy, you will have a destructive, unruly dog in a matter of months. The type of training that you enroll your puppy in should be something that you can enjoy together; neither of you will have fun if training becomes a bothersome chore. Dark Black Sable. A black German shepherd dog can be an excellent choice for families of all types. You should have at least some experience with dogs before you choose to welcome this breed into your family. This is not a dog to be spoiled and coddled; it needs to be raised with a firm but gentle hand if it is to thrive. The dark black Sable German Shepherd is really popular in the Schutzhund training world today! Schutzhund is a dog training sport that was developed in Germany. The Germans use this for testing their dogs to see how far they could go in training as a temperament test for training the German Shepherd Dogs. It is a great dog sport. What does the word Schutzhund mean? This is the owner of Kraftwerk K9 kennels. Wayne has trained and handled many different dogs in competitions worldwide today. I highly recommend checking out his website. Conclusion: We cover a lot of information in this article about some of the most popular questions most people are searching for. If I miss anything that you were looking for. Please post in the comments. Talk, soon!
Published on Copy link Are you looking for a furry best friend to take home? With their sweet demeanor and energetic personality, chocolate Labradors are perfect companions for any pet parent. Your puppy will go home with AKC registration papers, three generation pedigree, microchip, first puppy shot series, deworming, veterinary health certificate and written and signed guarantees. Erica and Carrie were wonderful to work with and super knowledgeable about their dogs. I highly suggest. You can find their available puppies here. You can find their upcoming litters, here. All of their breeding dogs are free of hip and elbow dysplasia and their eyes are certified through CERF. For more information and to get in touch, you can visit their website here or email jubett bellsouth. Mythic Labradors have been wonderful from the exceptional breeding process to answering questions throughout the puppy phase and to adulthood dietary needs. I love the honest commitment to the breed and the client. Riley is exceptional because of great breeding, training and love. And it all started with great breeding. They are dedicated to breeding for temperament, health and confirmation. Here is their list of available puppies. Before leaving, all puppies will have a veterinarian health certificate, AKC registration, their first shots and will have been wormed four times. All I can say is Buddy was definitely worth the wait. You can find their upcoming litters here. We love all of our fur family of animals as our own. Each one is a precious life who we raised for the joy of contribution as "YOUR" lifetime family member for you and yours. Here at our unique ranch, we breed Top Show Quality English Style Labradors, American Quarter Horses, Arabian Horses and a menagerie of fairytale like small animals in a certified wildlife habitat and preserve, with 47 years of agriculture and breeding experience. Our life and our home is dedicated to these beings and making life long lasting friends with our community. We don't own our animals, Our animals own us! Our dogs are part of our family, No mass production. They get the best quality feed and natural nursing. They are gently held and cared for as infant babies would be. They are loved and socialized with people and other animals. We will provide you with our recommendations from many years experience. Reserve your labrador puppy with select look, color, gender, temperament and perfect match! A Furever Friend Our lab puppies have been adopted as high quality pets, as contribution for other breeding programs, for service and therapy, for agility, hunting and great companionship! They love to cuddle for a good movie snuggled on the couch and play during the day. They care, they have feelings and they know what you require from them. What would it be like to have one of these puppies? We like yogurt!!! Around the clock for the first 8 weeks of their lives, we assure they are properly eating, exercising, give them lots of love, kisses and begin socialization. Introducing them to unusual sounds, activities, animals, toys, obstacles, etc. At 8 weeks, they are ready to be adopted and go home with their forever families! The fun begins! Or do you prefer black lab puppies? We evaluate our english lab puppies which are best for show, breeding, pet, service and therapy. Investing in a healthy breed quality Labrador puppy ensures a long life of optimal health enjoying every moment of your time together. He's our sweet stocky beautiful block head boy and is available at STUD. Proven as an ultimate producer of show english lab puppies. Breeding for the betterment of the breed is our primary focus. Outstanding Pedigree Rain Forest. Since Welcome to Tru-Heart Labradors! Tru-Heart Labradors is an established professional dog breeder situated between Jacksonville and Gainesville, Florida, that proudly produces the finest dual-purpose chocolate, yellow, and black Labrador Retriever puppies currently available in Florida. Our puppies are sold on a limited-registration basis to pet homes only, and we take pride in the fastidious, loving, and stimulating environment in which they are raised. Because we want every Tru-Heart puppy to find the best possible forever home, we ask that you submit an application before we discuss pricing or accept a deposit from you for one of our outstanding puppies. We do not inbreed. How do wild animal populations manage to remain healthy for thousands of generations without DNA testing? They don't lose important genes from the gene pool. In the wild, animals occasionally move from herd to herd, or flock to flock, which helps to restore genetic diversity to the population. If a particular group becomes isolated, and new individuals are prevented from entering the population, the gene pool is effectively closed. Breeders of other domestic animals understand this. Dogs are no different, and we put this truth into practice. By adhering to our scientifically-proven breeding philosophy, we ensure Tru-Heart puppies are born with sound temperaments, aesthetically-pleasing conformation, good bone, and genetic health and vigor. Please watch the following video on this subject from the Embark Canine Health Summit:. 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. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds of dogs in the United States. They are loyal, outgoing, friendly, and active. Affectionate and good with other dogs and children, they make wonderful additions to your family. There are plenty of reputable breeders in the Sunshine State to choose from. All the breeders mentioned in this list make sure the puppies are well cared for, including receiving all vaccinations, being thoroughly vet examined, and adhering to the Labrador Retriever Official Standard set by the American Kennel Club AKC. The 10 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Florida 1. No Lab has ever been returned for health or temperament issues, and each pup is raised in a home with 5 acres of land, plenty of love, attention, and care. All puppies are dewormed and thoroughly examined by a veterinarian. They also do not remove dewclaws. To get started, fill out the form under the contact link on the website. They focus on breeding pups of superior temperament and health. All puppies are vaccinated, microchipped, AKC registered, and come with a health certificate. They also offer a 1-year health guarantee. The bloodlines have a history of service dogs , companion, show, and hunting dogs. The pups are sold with limited AKC registration. The breeder socializes the pups, and they are raised in a loving environment. They are more focused on breeding for their own breeding stock and show lines but occasionally have pups available. They serve Florida, Georgia, and surrounding states. All puppies are AKC-registered and bred for companionship, show, field, and service work. All pups are examined and tested for top-quality breed assurance. They are happy to assist you with any questions; all you have to do is shoot them an email. Augustine and Jacksonville, Florida, this small hobby breeder raises AKC-limited-registered pups in the home. All puppies are bred according to the Labrador standard health and temperament and are ready to go home at 8 weeks. All parents are genetically tested for any joint issues and any signs of inbreeding. The British Labrador is primarily a sporting and hunting breed that holds the Labrador Retriever standard temperament. Their facility sits on 7, acres of land filled with wildlife and designed by nature experts, creating the perfect hunting-training scenario. They handpick from the finest British Labs in the world to produce the best hunting and sporting Labs. The puppies are sold with an AKC limited registration and are microchipped. You can take your new puppy home at 8 weeks, and the breeders raise them with love and plenty of attention. A unique fact about this breeder is they use an early socializing technique called early neurological stimulation , which improves cardiovascular health and other physical benefits. Duke is a perfect fit in our family. He loves our small children. He is medium in size. He is just like his momma Lacey.I highly recommend Penny Lane Labradors! Jennifer Sample: Duke I constantly get comments not just on how handsome he is but his temperament. My husband has had labs his entire life and I have owned one other lab with him for 10 years. Bosun is hands-down the best dog we've ever had. Thank you for breeding such great animals. He is a gem! She is adjusting well! Thank you for taking care of her for 8 weeks :! Charlotte Kountz: Dannie Thank you for our puppy muffin Juno. She is so sweet. She is definitely getting spoiled. She is a good little girl. We just adore her! Deanna Morrey: Delilah Lexi has the most adorable smile and is a little cuddle bug! Rachel Roberts: Lexi We named our little ball of joy Maisie. Thank you for such a wonderful pup! We love her so much!! He loves to swim at the beach and go on walks. Laura Watson: Sully Brady on his 11 wk birthday. He is very good - after the first night he has slept thru all of the nights. He is the perfect puppy!! Loves to get into the refrigerator- never seen anything like it! Took her to the beach first time Yesterday- she absolutely loves all the other dogs and people she meets, and they love her. She sleeps thru the night now in her kennel next to our bed. Thanks for raising such a fine puppy- she has stolen our hearts and filled our lives with joy! She is adjusting fine. She slept free in her own bed in our room till about then went straight back to sleep. Erika Foster: Olive.
This will help you to recognize the nature of the Sheprador a little better. This gave us the Labrador we have come to know and love in modern-day society. Your black Lab pup could weigh as much as 80 lbs, reaching heights of 24 inches. The black Labrador Retriever is an ideal companion because they are always eager to learn and a pleasure to train. These loyal fur babies come from a long line of useful working hounds. Did you know that up until the s, the lovable Labrador was pretty much only black and was intentionally bred to go along on hunting and shooting expeditions? Read next: black dog breeds. The Temperament of the Black Labrador Retriever These sweet-natured furballs are generally pretty active. They love to play and learn. They especially love meeting new people, and they have a strong sense of family loyalty. The American Labrador, or hunting Lab, is built with a daintier frame and tends to possess a bigger drive for retrieving. These doggos are successful at field trials and competitive activities such as hunting. Some Labs, however, are bred specifically for the show ring. Black Labradors are an asset in hunting and sporting communities, and although the popular choice was black, that has shifted slightly in recent years. Where hunting dog owners still do prefer a black coat, those wanting a Lab as a pet or in a show certainly have a preference for a lighter shade. Breeders today sell predominantly lighter-colored Labs, such as yellow, fox red, and chocolate. These good-tempered hounds can be proud members of your family for 12 years or even longer with a healthy diet and the right exercise regime. Standing tall at about 26 inches at shoulder height, this fuzzy friend is clad in a glossy coat and outlined with curvaceous, athletic proportions. A star student, the German Shepherd is delightfully reliable, courageous to the core, and a loyal companion to have by your side. Looking for more intelligent GSD mixes? Getting to Know the German Shepherd The beloved German Shepherds are loyal to the point of putting their own lives on the line when it concerns protecting their loved ones. German Shepherds are extremely courageous but are also one of the most intelligent dog breeds. But when they mean business, these hounds can give a cheetah a run for their money. Looking for a smaller companion? Read more about the most intelligent small dog breeds. The Temperament of the German Shepherd Stout-hearted German Shepherds have been described as the canines that lead the ranks of royalty. Moreover, their character is what sets them shoulders above the rest of the hairy hounds. They have, however, been noted to display a distant, cool quality that does not always bode well for making new friends. However, they still continue to be devoted guardians and valuable team members. Want a protective GSD mix? Yup, you guessed it. A hound that is a blend of two fantastic pups. Both bring enthusiasm and athletic abilities to the table. Labradors, for example, were originally bred as hunting hounds to retrieve fallen fowl from the water and aided as companions on the hunt. Two of the most popular doggos in America are the Labrador and the German Shepherd, so they make for a popular choice among breeders interested in exploring hybrid breeds. These designer pooches are the result of crossing two pure-blooded canines. The Nature of the Lab and German Shepherd Mix When mixing two different dog breeds, each with its own unique nature, there is a possibility for random and unexpected results. This is because traits are passed on and inherited randomly. We can, however, predict that a Sheprador puppy, much like any other hybrid, will inherit the best features from their parent dogs. Despite this, of the batch of hybrid Sheprador pups, some will display more of a German Shepherd personality, and others, more of a black Lab Retriever. Labradors are a very big success in the service and work industry, and to have as domesticated pets in the family home. Their gentle, laid-back nature was an asset to their human companions after a long day of hunting. Born and bred as herding dogs, German Shepherds make excellent security dogs and prefer to work at a distance from whoever is in charge. A handler or herder will get alerted by their German Shepherd whenever something suspicious poses a threat. Labradors are not similar in this regard. But like the lovely Lab, German Shepherds are incredibly versatile creatures and excel in any task they take on. Both doggos are gifted in service or military posts and even in the detection of narcotics. Socialization of the German Shepherd Labrador Mix An essential part of parenthood, when it comes to owning a dog, is socializing your pup. This process allows your pooch to get used to other animals and people. It also helps them to get to know new places and activities. Believe it or not, this is even more reason to prioritize socialization so as to ensure that when they do inevitably interact with other animals or people, they do so in the best way possible. The German Shepherds in your Sheprador will mean they are loyal to the end when it comes to their favorite humans, but they can definitely be wary of strangers. Luckily through early socialization during puppyhood, they can learn good habits. Socialization can even include having people over at your house so they can become used to new voices and faces. Getting them used to small children is also essential to avoid any unwanted accidents out of fear or nervousness. And, of course, if you have other pets, the earlier you introduce them to your Sheprador puppy, the better. Anything new should ideally be introduced earlier rather than later. German Shepherd Labs are likely to inherit this friendliness from both of their parents. Proper socialization will ensure that all parties are comfortable and that your pooch has the confidence to get out there and interact in a healthy way. Read more about why puppies whine so much and why puppies lick your face. Additionally, you should also be sure that you have lots of free time for games and activities that your dog can join in on, such as garden games or even jogging and hiking. These pups can get bored easily and become destructive if they are not properly stimulated. These dogs are really great with children, much like their parent breeds. If properly socialized as puppies, they are truly a joy to have around kids supervised, preferably. So if you have family members who can share the responsibility of entertaining these hounds, then that would be ideal. They are some of the least-aggressive dogs out there, thanks to the Lab in them. But, supervision is important because of their size and slight clumsiness. They can easily knock over a small child in the excitement of fun and games. As you can tell, these doggos are definitely on the needier side and require plenty of love, attention, and care. And not to mention, you are guaranteed a lifelong companion and proud family member. The Appearance of the German Shepherd Lab Mix When one combines these two brilliant pedigree pets, you are likely to end up with a lb hound offering servant-hearted companionship and a diligent, working spirit. Your German Shepherd mixed with Lab will stand tall at about 25 inches and will display the high intelligence and athletic ability of their parent breeds. However, predicting the coat pattern and color of the Sheprador puppy that will emerge from the breeding is not an easy feat. Predicting the inherited physical appearance of any dog is tricky enough as is. So, for the most part, the looks and personality of your Sheprador can be quite a gamble, as with any designer breed. This will simply make your precious pup all the more unique and special. But, if you are specific about the traits of your Sheprador pup, then a reputable breeder will be able to follow the genetic line of the parent breeds and make a rather accurate prediction. These physical and personality traits are a lot easier to predict when the parent dogs — in this case, German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever — are quite similar in nature, which they fortunately are. German Sheprador Coat Labradors have tight, short hair, while German Shepherds have a medium-length, double coat. They can also have longer coats that are wavy. Shepradors are not exactly low-maintenance dog breeds when it comes to grooming. True to its parent breeds, the Sheprador has a double coat consisting of a super warm undercoat and a coarser outer coat to protect them from the elements. These dogs historically worked outdoors, so adequate protection from the heat or the cold was essential. Due to the gene for long coats being recessive and very unusual among Labradors, your Black Lab German Shepherd Mix will most definitely have a neat, short coat like its Labrador parent. This means that even if their German Shepherd parent has a long coat, it is highly unlikely to be passed on to their puppies. However, a lint roller will definitely be your best friend when it comes to maintaining furniture and clothing. Consider also how this handsome hairball may affect any existing asthmatic or allergic conditions. The other main concern when it comes to apartment living is the exercise needs of these dogs. So, if you are available for a rigorous daily walk and plenty of playtime, then it can work. As long as these hounds have the opportunity for daily energy expenditure to keep them happy and healthy, all will be well. Other than that, they will be in their element if they can curl up on the couch for movies and naps with their favorite humans. Like most crossbreeds, mixed breeds are usually healthier than their purebred parents. So if your Sheprador takes after their German Shepherd parent, then you may encounter spinal problems that lead to arthritis and hip dysplasia as they get older. The silver lining is that the good health of the Labrador balances out the potentially compromised health that German Shepherds sometimes have, and the result is a stellar, mostly-healthy Sheprador pup. Elbow Dysplasia: Elbow Dysplasia is characterized by lameness in the forelimb and results in limping. Progressive Retinal Atrophy : This ailment affects the photoreceptor cells of the dog which causes them to deteriorate over time. It eventually leads to blindness. In addition to these conditions, Labradors are also prone to allergies. However, there are no DNA tests to detect this predisposition, so your best bet is to check with your breeder about a family history of allergies. It results due to a lack of von Willebrand factor protein vWF. Hypothyroidism: Marked by an underactive thyroid condition, this endocrine disorder in dogs is rather common. It causes bodily functions to slow down, and warning signs include lethargy and weight gain. Cataracts: German Shepherds are prone to eye problems like Cataracts. It occurs when the dog develops cloudiness in the eye, which disturbs its vision. It causes abnormal blood clot formation. More About the Health of Your Black Lab and German Shepherd Mix While this breed has some health concerns in its parent breeds, these can be detected early on with screenings. Other than that, conditions like obesity can be prevented by pet owners. The best thing you can do with your Sheprador puppy is to find a reputable breeder and ask many questions. Find out about the parent breeds, what their health and medical histories are, and be sure to ask for health screening certificates. Life Expectancy of the Sheprador Now that we know what health issues to look out for, what is the lifespan of these hounds? Labrador Retrievers live between 10 and 14 years, whereas German Shepherds typically live less long, between 9 and 12 years. Exercise Regime for the German Shepherd and Lab Mix With black Labs and German Shepherds being high-energy, athletic animals, combining the two of them results in a grown Sheprador in need of at least 2 hours of walking a day. These two types of dogs were bred with the initial purpose of being active and physical for several hours each day. They are excellent work dogs and will likely chew your furniture or dig up your rose garden if left ignored or indoors for prolonged periods of time. In addition to going for walks or runs, playtime with your Sheprador can include tug of war, fetch, and working on developing scent detection. In addition to needing lots of playtime and physical stimulation, they also need a lot of mental stimulation. This can include dog puzzles and dog toys — they are very mouthy pups, so multiple chew toys, or anything to clutch in their jaw, for that matter, will suffice. Not to mention, these hounds will be in their element with doggy sports like obedience training, agility work, and fieldwork. They are hard-working and love any opportunity to learn something new while pleasing their favorite humans. Both parents of the Sheprador were bred to spend several hours a day being mentally and physically challenged. And take note that no amount of fetch games with a ball launcher will be too much for these playful canines. Dietary Requirements of the Labrador and German Shepherd Mix In order to ensure you have a Sheprador with a happy and healthy life, you should be sure that you feed your pooch the right dog food. Not all dog food on the market is high quality, so carefully selecting the right brand is important. In general, a good rule of thumb is to opt for food with all-natural ingredients and high-fiber dog food that includes fruits and vegetables. Also, make sure they have a diet high in protein. You should also avoid food with filler ingredients, artificial flavoring, and preservatives. The Labrador side of these hounds will certainly mean they come with a big appetite and a love for snacking. Due to this, Shepradors are very prone to weight gain and overeating. To avoid gulping down their dinner, it may be best to invest in a slow feeder. If Shepradors are allowed to become overweight, they will suffer from joint problems, hip dysplasia, and, later on, arthritis. This mixed breed is quite widely accessible and is luckily not as pricey as other, more fashionable crossbreeds. The best route is to research reputable breeders and follow recommendations. Shepradors are not extremely expensive dog breeds. Adopting a Sheprador If you are struggling to find a reputable breeder or you simply have your heart set on a Black Lab German Shepherd, then rescuing is a great option. Be sure to check out your local shelters and adoption agencies. These pups have so much love to give and deserve a second chance at a happy home. They are also easily adaptable and should slot into their new environment and family without too much fuss. Remember that they flourish on positive reinforcement and rely on learning and training in order to thrive. Like with any relationship, there will be highs and lows. But, for the most part, the pros will likely outweigh the cons when it comes to the Black Lab mixed with German Shepherd. Cons of Owning a Sheprador They can inherit serious health issues: this is emotionally and financially stressful, but health screenings can, fortunately, help predict and prevent inherited issues. They need lots of exercise: without sufficient exercise and a generally active lifestyle, these hounds will grow restless, bored, and unhappy. They are likely to shed heavily: without a frequent brushing and sweeping routine, your pooch will leave your home in a blanket of hair. Pros of Owning a Sheprador Shepradors are outgoing with loyal personalities: your Sheprador is always eager to play, engage, learn, and meet new people, which makes them great companions. They are great family pets: affectionate and loving, Shepradors want to belong in your family and feel needed on the team. The dogs are excellent security dogs: the Sheprador is innately a protector and a watchdog and will alert you of any threats to your safety. Final Thoughts on the Sheprador There you have it, folks — the brilliant, blended Sheprador that we all adore. This razor-sharp, athletically-inclined hound is a sure companion to have at your side. They are eager to please and easy to train, which will make them a pleasure to have around in the home or on the job. You cannot go wrong with parenting one of these fur babies unless, of course, you have a problem with too much loyalty and brilliance. Looking for more GSD crossbreeds? Take a look at these posts next:. 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? 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. However, the black German Shepherd is much less well-known. This coloration is extremely rare and not currently recognized by most major kennel clubs. But they have since grown significantly in popularity. Usually, German Shepherds have a single coat pattern — black and tan. However, fully black German Shepherds do exist. This is not due to crossbreeding; the gene for completely black coats is carried by purebred German Shepherds. It is much rarer than the usual coloration, though. They have the same build and grow to be the about same size as a purebred German Shepherd. Males usually weight between 65 to 90 pounds, while females are 50 to 75 pounds. These are considered medium-to-large dogs, so consider whether you have the space before adopting one. Their height is around inches. This is correct for both males and females. Black German Shepherds are completely black. Most German Shepherds have at least a little bit of black on them. However, German Shepherds have nothing but black. Their coat is generally the same besides for their different in coloration. Their double-coat helps them stay clean and warm. As working dogs, these canines are built to work, and it shows. This coat color is accepted by the AKC. It is also not the result of crossbreeding, as some misinformation may state. Instead, it is simply a rare color that very few German Shepherds end up with. It only showed up recently and is sometimes encouraged through selective breeding. While the gene for a solid black coat was once though to be recessive, many people now consider it to be dominant. These dogs always have dark-colored eyes. Blue eyes are extremely rare and usually a sign that a dog has other breeds in his pedigree, such as Huskies. Other than the color, the body of black German Shepherds looks just like his black and tan cousins. As in all German Shepherds, the ears are typically erect, though floppy ears in adult can be seen occasionally. History By , the generalized herding dogs of Europe had split themselves into a few different distinctive breeds, including the German Shepherd. During the s, there was an attempt to standardize dog breeds and promote traits that encouraged sheep herding, including speed, strength, endurance, and intelligence. However, varieties still existed from place to place. Slight breeding difference had led to slightly different shepherds. During the industrial revolution, the need for sheepdogs decreased along with the predator population. Luckily, by this point, people were already recognizing the intelligence and ability of the previous herding dogs. From this dog the breed standard grew. In just a few generations, the German Shepherd was one of the most populous in the world. Honrand fathered many puppies. Nearly all German Shepherds today are descended from him. There was quite a bit of inbreeding that occurred to produce the German Shepherd breed we know today. The Black German Shepherd has likely existed to some extent since the breed was produced. However, many dogs do not carry the completely black gene. Many completely black German Shepherds in the past were likely culled at birth due to the defect. Today, the gene is seeing a reoccurrence. Personality and Temperament The German Shepherd is often considered to be an aggressive dog. However, this is not completely true. They do have significant protective instincts, as they were originally bred to guard flocks of sheep. For instance, the German Shepherd has a bite force of over 1, newtons. But there are several dogs that rank around this as well, including the Rottweiler, Pit Bull, and Labrador Retriever. Most dogs at about this size are going to have a similar bite strength. German Shepherds are considered to be moderately active. They need just about as much exercise as dogs of a similar size. This breed is well-known for being heavily devoted to their people and easy to train. When trained properly, they will absolutely listen. However, they do have innate protective instincts. If you want to dog that is going to be protective of their family, this is a great choice. These canines do need extensive socialization starting at a young age, though. Otherwise, they can become a bit too protective of their family and territory. These canines are not the friendliest. They are people-oriented, but not with strangers. They tend to be quite unsure with strangers. At best, they usually ignore them completely. Other times, they may be obviously uncomfortable. German Shepherds have high prey drive. On the one hand that means that you can easily motivate them with a ball or tug toy. On the other hand, it requires a lot of supervision for owners that have small dogs or cats in addition to their shepherd. While your dog might not outright try to fight with a cat or smaller dog, he could even accidentally hurt them during play. They are extremely intelligent and devoted to their owners. Unlike some dog breeds, they will listen to their owners in most real-life situations. They can learn a variety of different commands very easily and will actually do them when asked. However, these dogs do need the training. Without it, they can be overly protective and even potentially dangerous. Their ease of training does make fulfilling this need quite easy, though. We do recommend puppy classes starting at a very young age. These classes provide the extra socialization that your dog needs, as well as allows you to jumpstart their training. We only recommend private classes for dogs that are too reactive around strangers and other dogs to thrive in a group class. Usually, only German Shepherds who were not properly socialized as puppies will fit into this category. If you adopt an older German Shepherd that seems in need of socialization, we recommend taking private classes with an experienced trainer. You can work your dog through some basic commands and then work on socializing them with safe people and dogs. The trainer should be able to help you in this regard. The German Shepherd is a more active breed, and completely black German Shepherds are not different. While there are more active dog breeds out there, these canines are best for those that are quite active. They need at least two medium-to-long walks per day. Puppies will likely need some extra play sessions as well. Health and Care German Shepherds are pretty healthy as far as purebred dogs come. However, they are prone to some health problems. Many of these are due to the inbreeding that occurred early in the breed, which made some previously rare traits more common. Black German Shepherds are not known to have any more health problems than their black-and-tan cousins. Their coat coloration is not associated with any particular health issues or anything of that sort. It is important to purchase these dogs from a qualified breeder, as they tend to perform plenty of health testing on any dog they plan on breeding. This helps them recognize health problems and pick only the healthiest dogs possible for producing litters. We do recommend purchasing a German Shepherd that was bred as a working dog — not one produced as a show dog. These two lines of dogs are somewhat distinct as they have been bred for two very different purposes. Show dogs tend to confirm to an extreme extent to the breed standard, which increase the amount of health problems they develop. On the other hand, working dogs were bred with practicality in mind. Many German Shepherds have hip and elbow dysplasia. This disease occurs when the ball and socket of the joint do not line up correctly, leading to excess wear-and-tear. Eventually, this cause arthritis-like symptoms, but at a much earlier age than arthritis typically shows up. Usually, this damage occurs during puppyhood when the dog is growing, but they may not show symptoms until a few years later. There are a few things pet owners can do to reduce the chance of hip and elbow dysplasia in their German Shepherd. Many of these dogs are also affected by degenerative spinal stenosis. However, this study had a notably small sample size, so it may not be entirely accurate. On a good note, German Shepherds are actually less likely to get ear infections than other dogs. Degenerative myelopathy occurs often enough in German Shepherds that they are likely predispositioned to it. This test is very expensive, so many breeders perform it on their dogs before breeding as well as on the puppies after they are born. Once the test is used regularly, it becomes very easy to remove it from the breed. Von Willebrand disease also occurs at a higher level in German Shepherds than in the normal dog population. It is likely that they are genetically predispositioned to it. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency occurs in German Shepherds as well. This condition is usually treated with medication and pancreatic supplements. It is most likely genetic, so health testing and keeping track of pedigrees is important to eliminating it in the breed. Medium-coated dogs will only need brush two to three times a week. Long coats will need combed through at least once a day to prevent mats. Because of their double coat, dogs of all coat types will shed profusely. Do not adopt a black German Shepherd unless you can deal with a lot of extra hair. Even if you brush your dog daily, they will still shed everywhere. Usually, this occurs in the spring and fall, but it can depend on your local climate. Shedding is also tied to hormones — not just the weather. There is little you can do to reduce the overall amount of shedding your dog does. However, anti-shedding shampoos and a high-quality diet can help. It is usually not too difficult to find a normal German Shepherd breeder somewhere near you. However, not all breeders produce black dogs. Most will also be significantly more expensive than a black-and-tan German Shepherd due to their rarity. Many people want a black German Shepherd, which means that you often have to be prepared to pay a bit extra. However, this is still much cheaper than you might expect for a large dog. As a common breed, they are usually cheaper than most. It may be tempting to cut corners and purchase a cheaper puppy. However, this is not recommended, especially when it comes to German Shepherds. These puppies need socialized from the moment they are born. Often, breeders put in this time and effort. We highly recommend only purchasing puppies form very experienced breeders. Otherwise, you may end up with an unsocialized puppy and a troublesome temperament. You should always ask about the pedigree of the parents, as well as the health testing the breeder has done. Ask to see the parents if at all possible. Sometimes, the father will be located somewhere else, so only the mother will be at the breeder. In this case, it is usually fine to just see the mother. You can tell a lot about a breeder form how they keep the mother and the puppies, so be absolutely sure to ask to see their living conditions. The parents should be AKC registered, so you should ask for registration. But AKC registration does not mean that the dog is high-quality. Every German Shepherd can be registered — even those with no health testing. Preferably, you should have owned at least one dog before. It is recommended that you have some experience with more active dogs, as well. These dogs are quite active and tend to be high-energy. Without the appropriate amount of exercise, they can easily become destructive. In fact, most of the destructive behavior associated with a German Shepherd is due to a lack of stimulation. German Shepherds require extensive training as well, so it is best if they have a handler that has previously trained dogs. They will take up a few hours a day as puppies and require as much as an hour or two of exercise alone. Many of these canines are more expensive than their black-and-tan counterparts. However, they have won the hearts of many pet owners. It will often take you a little bit before you locate a completely black puppy, so be prepared to sit on a few waiting lists. Despite their unusual colorations, these dogs are very similar to all other German Shepherds. They have the same temperament and work great as guard dogs. You have to prepare to train and socialize them properly. They require quite a bit more work than other breeds, but it is absolutely worth it in the end. We recommend these dogs for serious dog owners who have previously owned dogs. German Shepherds are not for the casual dog owner. They need someone who can commit to their training and activity needs. Author: Kristin Kristin was born in Tennessee and currently lives there with her husband and children. She is passionate about educating pet parents and helping them make the best possible decisions for their pets. She currently owns one dog, two cats, a lizard, and a variety of fish. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.
How to help my German Shepherd with Separation Anxiety? November 3, November 3, Anyone who has a German Shepherd knows that they are exceptionally intelligent, loyal and confident. Separation anxiety is common in dogs and especially German Shepherds. We all know that German Shepherds are extremely affectionate and loyal to their family. They love spending time with their owners and protect them from threats. There are certain traits only linked to German Shepherds such as a want to chase things, they can be very aloof toward strangers, be territorial, and have an exceptional ability to focus. This intelligent and playful breed can quickly get bored and anxious when they are separated from their owners for long periods. Shepherds have shown signs of aggression and bad behavior due to being alone and feeling anxious and stressed. Dealing with separation anxiety with Shepherds can be different than other breeds because of their size and intelligence. With a small dog you can pick them up, cuddle, walk around with them in your arms, this is not an option with a shepherd. Other dogs can be content with classical music in the background to calm them while a shepherd need more mental stimulation to bring comfort. You know your dog best so changes in behavior or body language should be addressed. Lip licking Whites of the eyes are visible Shaking Looking away and avoidance behavior This issue can be worse for rescue German Shepherds because of the potential for pre-existing abandonment issues. If you recently brought your new dog home from the shelter, you might find that separation anxiety is a big problem. They have previous experience with being abandoned or left at a shelter. It is also important to remember that your German Shepherd can develop separation anxiety issues later in life even if they were previously fine. German Shepherds are sensitive to changes in their lives. For example, some dog owners will notice increased anxiety in their dogs after moving to another house. Your pet merely needs time to get used to their new surroundings and will find comfort in your presence. A change in routine, such as a new job, could also have an impact. Sometimes just getting older can mean a newly developed case of separation anxiety. The behavioral symptoms of separation anxiety in German Shepherds: The symptoms that you will be most aware of as a dog owner are the more destructive behaviors and their impact on your home. If your dog has the freedom to roam around the house and take out their frustrations, damage may occur. Dogs can become more inclined to chew to comfort themselves, often legs of chairs, corners of couches…even walls! How should you react when your dog pees or poops in the house while you are away? You might find unfortunate accidents on the floor when you get home, as though your dog forgot all about their house-breaking training. When this happens, your dog should never be yelled at or punished. Your dog connects the accident to your behavior. So, if you normally would yell at your dog when there is an accident, then your dog would relate the actual accident to yelling, not that they were the cause of this accident. This could mean that they start whining a lot more as they pace the home looking for you. Or they might start barking. If the latter is the case, you might find your neighbors knocking on your door complaining about the noise. That is because they might not manifest themselves until you leave home. Some German Shepherd will start to drool excessively, while others may pant and shake. There can be a big difference in the symptoms exhibited, with some dogs becoming quite active in their anxiety and others more lethargic and depressed. Click here to learn more about the signs of separation anxiety in dogs What can you do to prevent separation anxiety in German Shepherds? The impact of these tools will always depend on the personality of your dog, the severity of the condition, and your efforts in using them consistently. Therefore, some dog owners will see results with greater speed and ease than others. Renowned as the Queen of Calm, it relieves anxiety, helps with sleep and lifts moods. Lavender can help de-stress and calm your anxious dog safely. It can not only quiet a nervous and agitated pooch, but also help them sleep better, and can even cheer up a depressed pet. One of the gentlest oils around, lavender is well-known as a natural sedative, calming and soothing the nerves, easing anxiety and depression, and promoting deeper and more restful sleep. Lavender's calming sedative-like effects were confirmed in a study Pubmed article Link with dogs who had a history of car ride anxiety. The study found that dogs spent significantly more time resting and sitting and less time moving and vocalizing when exposed to the scent. Another study Shelter Dog Study link on diffusing lavender in a dog shelter showed similar results. Your Scent. Neuroscientist Gregory Berns and his team at Emory University's Center for Neuropolicy used advanced brain-imaging to demonstrate that dogs recognize scents even when the source isn't present. One of the most interesting findings of his study published in the journal Behavioral Processes is how canine brains responded differently to the odor of unfamiliar dogs and humans compared to their own family. You are your dog's favorite smell. While we might expect that dogs should be highly tuned to the smell of other dogs, it seems that the 'reward response' is reserved for their humans. Whether this is based on food, play, innate genetic predisposition or something else remains an area for future investigation. They don't call man "dog's best friend" for nothing. Click here to learn more about the powerful effects that your smell has on your dog SPACE: Give them space where they can be happy and entertained while you are gone. If you want to stop your anxious German Shepherd from exploring the home in search of you or destroying things out of boredom or worry, make sure that they are secure and entertained. Train your pup to be safe in a crate or a pen. Give them a safe designated area that is all theirs where they can sleep and play. A crate can become a cozy little den with their blankets and toys. A nap here in the afternoon can be soothing. The destructive side of separation anxiety can subside if your dog is tired and would much rather have a good sleep. You can enjoy some quality time together and get plenty of exercise on a long walk. Then, when they are settled back at home and content, you can leave without a fuss. How do we get your actual scent into our products? When you order, we send you a scent collection kit in the mail. When you mail back your collected scent in the prepaid envelope provide, our labs extract your scent molecules in a highly concentrated format, which is then blended to create the ultimate calming spray for your dog. It is all natural, drug and chemical free. To stop separation anxiety in German Shepherds, socialize and train your dog from an early age and exercise him before leaving. Leave him where he feels relaxed and comfy, keeping departures low-key, and leave lots of toys and distractions. Practice short trips first and never use punishment. Puppies should be exposed to different stimuli as often as possible from an early age. Start by introducing your pup to your family and friends, taking him to many different places where he can encounter other dogs and experience various scenarios, such as traffic noise, lots of people, children playing, etc. Puppies need a routine and a training schedule. Check out my article, German Shepherd Puppy Training Schedule , for a month-by-month plan on what to teach and when. Just understand it may take a little longer. For both puppies and older dogs, obedience classes are always an excellent idea. Exercise helps to keep them healthy and prevents boredom. This study found that dogs with separation anxiety exercised less compared with dogs that did not have separation anxiety. The same study also found that unsocialized dogs were more at risk see above. Always exercise your German Shepherd before you leave him. He will be tired and will want to sleep while you are away. A tired dog is also a happy dog. When you return home, exercise him again. A healthy adult German Shepherd needs at least two periods of between 45 to minutes of daily exercise. Walking him on the lead every day without any variety will not be sufficient. Puppies have different exercise requirements as they are still growing, and too much or the wrong type of exercise can be harmful to pups. So, here are my 7 fun ways how to exercise a German Shepherd puppy. If your German Shepherd stays indoors and is crate trained, you should leave him in his crate as he will feel safe and secure. However, a point to note is that some dogs with already developed separation anxiety do not do well in a crate. Other options are to leave him in a designated room or use dog gates to segregate an area or use a playpen. Making a big fuss about departures and arrivals detracts from this purpose. The same applies when you return, so wait a few minutes before petting him and showing him affection. It makes a great chew toy, has a crazy fun bounce, and you can fill it with peanut butter or treats for your doggo to enjoy. Puzzle toys are mentally and physically stimulating, which helps to reduce stress and anxiety. This cool toy will keep your pup busy while he tries to find all the tasty treats. It encourages positive play and gets thousands of great reviews. Another tip is to leave the TV on or have some gentle music playing. So start by leaving him for a few minutes at a time as soon as you bring him home, which is usually around eight weeks old. Gradually build this up over the next few weeks, increasing his time alone little by little. A rough guideline is that puppies should be left no more than one hour per month of age up to a maximum of four hours. You can read more info on how long German Shepherds can be left alone in my guilt-free guide. When my German Shepherd was a young pup, even if I had nowhere to go, I would sneak upstairs to another room and stay silent for a few minutes so that she could get used to being alone in her crate. However, you should try to avoid this step if you notice that your German Shepherd is beginning to feel quite comfortable alone. It should only be attempted if your dog is experiencing separation anxiety or you need to be away for more than four hours. Otherwise, you could end up reversing your progress. German Shepherds are all about you and will stress very easily! One way to stop separation anxiety in German Shepherds is to show your doggo that you love him and he is important to you. You should allow him to have some time alone as you might inadvertently be making him too clingy. A GSDs strong bond can become a problem if you allow it! Ensure you show him affection at the right times, such as during training or when he deserves praise. There are also other ways to show affection rather than constantly petting, such as extra walks or playtime or offering special treats or toys as rewards. Never Discipline Your GSD If you come home to destroyed cushions, scratches on the door, or a chewed table leg, you cannot discipline or punish your pup. They are, in fact, part of a panic response. You should discipline dogs at the precise moment they perform the unwanted behavior. But why? This is because dogs have a 2-minute short-term memory and will not remember what happened a few minutes earlier, never mind an hour ago! But they will recall your training commands through associative memory. This means they can remember associations between commands, situations, and behavior. This is why positive reinforcement as a method of training works. Consider a Second Dog to be a Friend One solution to prevent separation anxiety in German Shepherds is to consider getting a second dog. However, this is a massive commitment, and you need to carefully think about how much extra time, work, and expense it will involve. If your family is truly set on a second dog, bear in mind that adult German Shepherds often have difficulty accepting new dogs. This problem stems from their intense bond with you. However, a young adolescent dog will likely receive a new friend with open paws! It can lower his recovery rate and add up to his trauma. This can increase the nervousness. Sometimes, there can only be one trigger point to address and this can get them rid of fear. Rework on your routine to spend some more time with your German Shepherd. Every dog takes his own pace to recover. It can reduce boredom, sensitize your absence, and also promote coping skills of your German Shepherd. German Shepherd Separation Anxiety Training If your German Shepherd suffers from severe separation anxiety or you have adopted a rescue with clear signs of this psychological problem, and the above recommendations are clearly not working, it may be time to start more advanced separation anxiety training. So, can you train separation anxiety out of a German Shephard? You can train separation anxiety out of a German Shepherd. German Shepherd separation anxiety training consists of behavior modification techniques such as counterconditioning and desensitization, which can be supplemented with medication in the initial phases if the anxiety is severe. Interestingly, I found some recent research suggesting that understanding the root cause of separation anxiety could be the key to effective treatment. The research conducted by a team of scientists at the University of Lincoln, UK, stated that separation-related behavior SRB should be seen as a symptom of inherent frustrations instead of a diagnosis. The idea is to condition your German Shepherd to look forward to your departure by learning to associate the sound of your keys and other departure cues with getting something pleasant, such as a treat or a toy. Desensitization Another training technique is desensitization. This is when you gradually teach your dog to cope with a situation by carefully exposing him to that situation in tiny steps. For example, you can start by practicing progressive departures of minutes when you leave your German Shepherd. For example, if he starts to panic after just 30 seconds of you leaving, then that is your starting point. You will start by walking through the door and leaving him for, say, 15 seconds. But, if you know that he starts to exhibit symptoms after 10 minutes, try leaving him for 5 minutes. Do you get me? Slowly but surely is the key. Doggy cams are excellent for this as you just operate them from your smartphone. This one has over 20, positive reviews, and you can even get it to toss out treats to your dog. But that is not for now! As behavior modification training is not a quick solution, you may need to consider additional treatment options, such as conventional or alternative medication, especially if your GSDs anxiety is severe. To treat separation anxiety in your German Shepherd, consider anti-anxiety medication from your vet whilst you continue behavior modification training. You can also use dog appeasing pheromone DAP , which has therapeutic calming effects. CBD oil is also becoming more popular, albeit not clinically proven. Medication is only a temporary fix and should always be used in conjunction with the training techniques described above. This is a synthetic copy of the natural comforting pheromone secreted by a dam to reassure her puppies. Dog-appeasing pheromone has therapeutic effects of calming and reducing some forms of anxiety in both young and adult dogs. Nonetheless, there has been little research to support the use of DAP for canine separation anxiety, and its long-term effectiveness is unknown. However, this study suggested that DAP improved separation anxiety in hospitalized dogs. Adaptil is the brand recommended, most trusted, and used by vets and expert animal behaviorists. I have never needed to try this for my German Shepherd. CBD oil is available in drops, capsules, and a range of treats. Some dog owners claim that their dogs benefit from using it as it helps to fight their separation anxiety by relaxing them and keeping them calm when alone. This study suggested that the main reasons owners choose cannabis products were to use them alongside other therapies, and they were perceived as a natural substance. Before you give any supplement to your German Shepherd, you should contact your veterinarian for advice. Here are the key takeaways of this guide: Early socialization and training can prevent separation-related behavior Get your pup accustomed to being alone from a young age Thoroughly exercise your German Shepherd before leaving him Never punish your dog for destructive behavior due to SRB In extreme cases, work on behavior modification training Remember, you need to be patient and consistent as behavior modification training techniques can take weeks or months, depending on the dog and the extent of the problem. Related Posts You May Like:. Training - Separation Anxiety Reducing Separation Anxiety in Dogs You can download this article as a PDF by clicking here and keep it handy for yourself or share it with someone you know. The most common of these behaviors are: Digging, chewing, and scratching at doors or windows in an attempt to escape and reunite with their owners Howling, barking, and crying in an attempt to get their owners to return Urination and defecation even with housetrained dogs as a result of distress Why Do Dogs Suffer from Separation Anxiety? In reality, they are part of a panic response. He displays effusive, frantic greeting behaviors. He reacts with excitement, depression, or anxiety to your preparations to leave the house. He dislikes spending time outdoors by himself. For more severe problems, these techniques should be used along with the desensitization process described in the next section. Keep arrivals and departures low-key. For example, when you arrive home, ignore your dog for the first few minutes, then calmly pet him. Dogs usually learn to associate certain cues with short absences by their owners. Use your safety cue during practice sessions with your dog. Be sure to avoid presenting your dog with the safety cue when you leave for a period of time longer than he can tolerate; if you do, the value of the safety cue will be lost. If your dog engages in destructive chewing as part of his separation distress, offering him a chewing item as a safety cue is a good idea. Desensitization Techniques for More Severe Cases of Separation Anxiety The primary treatment for more severe cases of separation anxiety is a systematic process of getting your dog used to being alone. We recommend the following procedure: Begin by engaging in your normal departure activities getting your keys, putting on your coat , then sit back down. Repeat this step until your dog shows no distress in response to your activities. Next, engage in your normal departure activities and go to the door and open it, then sit back down. Next, step outside the door, leaving the door open, then return. Finally, step outside, close the door, then immediately return. Slowly get your dog accustomed to being alone with the door closed between you for several seconds. Proceed very gradually from step to step, repeating each step until your dog shows no signs of distress. The number of repetitions will vary depending on the severity of the problem. Return to an earlier step in the process and practice this step until the dog shows no distress response, then proceed to the next step. Once your dog is tolerating your being on the other side of the door for several seconds, begin short-duration absences. Your return must be low-key: Either ignore your dog or greet him quietly and calmly. If he shows no signs of distress, repeat the exercise. If he appears anxious, wait until he relaxes to repeat the exercise. Practice as many absences as possible that last less than 10 minutes. You can do many departures within one session if your dog relaxes sufficiently between departures. You should also scatter practice departures and short-duration absences throughout the day. The hard part is at the beginning, but the job gets easier as you go along. Nevertheless, you must go slowly at first. How long it takes to condition your dog to being alone depends on the severity of his problem. To do this, you gradually increase the distance you move away from your dog. As you progress, you can do this during the course of your normal daily activities. When you come back, give him a treat or praise him quietly. Never punish your dog during these training sessions. Interim Solutions Because the treatments described above can take a while, and because a dog with separation anxiety can do serious damage to himself or your home in the interim, consider these suggestions to help you and your dog cope in the short term. Consult your veterinarian about the possibility of drug therapy. Such medication is a temporary measure and should be used in conjunction with behavior modification techniques. Take your dog to a dog day care facility or boarding kennel. Leave your dog with a friend, family member, or neighbor. Take your dog to work with you, even for half a day, if possible. Punishment is not an effective way to treat separation anxiety. In fact, punishing your dog after you return home may actually increase his separation anxiety. Getting another pet as a companion for your dog. Crating your dog. Your dog will still engage in anxiety responses in the crate. He may urinate, defecate, howl, or even injure himself in an attempt to escape from the crate. Training your dog. You can download this as a PDF here and keep it handy for yourself or share it with someone you know. Adapted from material originally developed by applied animal behaviorists at the Dumb Friends League, Denver, Colorado. All rights reserved. The separation anxiety can be triggered by the dog seeing signs that the owner is leaving. Depending on how severe the anxiety is, your German Shepherd will most likely present the following symptoms: Howling is arguably the most common sign of separation anxiety in German Shepherds. Giving treats and toys to chew on during alone time can go a long way in resolving the issue. Remember not to show them too much affection at these moments as it only makes matters worse. Frequent accidents and misbehavior despite being trained. Excessive licking. Attempting to escape from home, especially after your departure, is one of the most common signs that your dog is experiencing separation anxiety. Some German Shepherds exhibit separation anxiety by biting their paws often. Frequent change of position or pacing can also show signs of separation in a German Shepherd. The German Shepherd is famous for being one of the most loyal dog breeds. This, however, comes at a price since the dogs could get sensitive and emotional about being left behind. German shepherds are among the most affectionate dog breeds in the world. If not well managed, the anxiety problem can grow from barking to other kinds of unpleasant behavior such as aggression towards other dogs or destroying furniture. What causes separation anxiety in German Shepherds? It is not properly understood why dogs experience separation anxiety. There are, however, a few likely scenarios. First, wolves and dogs are natural pack animals. They grow fond of each other and their master much faster than other animals like cats. It is not, therefore, hard to imagine how difficult it is for your dog to feel alone, as they might be afraid of being hurt or lost. Another possible reason for this behavior is previous experiences with abandonment. Dogs adopted from shelters are particularly vulnerable to these experiences. According to The German Shepherder , the issue is also quite rampant in older dogs who have had to survive the passing or departure of their owners and had to be re-homed. While you might get a sense of affection by knowing that your dog is anxious for your return, it might be dangerous for your dog to be upset every time you leave. It is therefore best to tackle the problem head-on. This is only possible by making changes to the routine that your German Shepherd is used to. Make sure your dog gets enough exercise every day before you leave. According to GermanShepherdProblems , most German Shepherd dogs will not become anxious if they do not panic at the departure of their master. Try to give the dog something to do while you are away. A chew toy works best in German Shepherds. However, these remedies are only useful if the dog is not experiencing severe anxiety. Otherwise, if your dog is severely anxious, these activities might not be enough to capture their attention in order to get over your absence. Do this by going through your leaving routine daily without actually leaving, or just occasionally get up and leave without giving the dog any warning. By not giving much affection to the German Shepherd right before you go and mixing up your leaving routine, they might be less likely to panic when you leave. Also, try your best to ignore the dog when it starts to whine or whimper. It is really tough to ignore them when they start to sound displeased. However, showing more affection to your dog when it gets upset only makes things worse. You need to do your best to keep a distance between your dog and your act of leaving. In most cases, just re-planning your routine will work great at solving the issue of separation anxiety. Positive reinforcements Puppies are more like children, as they learn much faster when they are rewarded for a behavior. The idea only works in mild anxiety cases. If bad behavior has already taken hold, positive reinforcements might not be a favorable option. The goal of positive reinforcements is to reward calm behaviors and discourage anxious behaviors such as chewing and barking. Some professionals may refer to it as counter-conditioning since it teaches your dog to embrace its fears for a treat. If you are not calm around your dog, especially at the time of departure, you might be the cause of the problem. It is not advisable to pour love or make a big deal at the moment of your departure. Stay calm when preparing to depart. We are not, however, forbidding you from saying goodbye to your dog. Just try to not make a fuss out of it. Medication might help at times If you have tried all the ways listed above but none seem to be working, you might want to try some medication for your German Shepherd. It is always advisable to have a personal veterinary professional for your dog. Getting them checked immediately when symptoms arise could help a vet alleviate the issue early on. While medication should not be your first choice, it is sometimes essential that your German Shepherd receives medical attention for cases of severe anxiety. What to Avoid Doing to an Anxious German Shepherd Now that we know what to do to an anxious German Shepherd let us look at the things you should avoid doing around them. Do Not Yell at Your Dog! According to AboutGermanShepherddogs , yelling at your dog will only make the situation worse. Figure out which parts of the schedule to change and stick to it if it works. Do Not Ignore Training Some people simply let the dogs rest if they show signs of separation anxiety. It is essential that the dog gets regular training and new exercises to keep their mind off your departure. German Shepherd Separation Anxiety: Final Thoughts It is essential to recognize the signs of separation anxiety early on. This will not be difficult with most German Shepherd breeds as they will chew up just about anything when stressed enough! When you understand what exactly is keeping your pal anxious, you can take the steps discussed above to resolve it quickly. Some cases of separation anxiety can begin as early as puppyhood, others develop over time and multiple negative exposures. What Causes Separation Anxiety in Dogs? Instinctually, pack animals know that there is safety in numbers. When an anxious dog is left alone, they may fear being hurt or lost. Another possible cause is past experience with abandonment. This is especially true for dogs who were adopted from shelters. Here is the quick list of things that can trigger separation anxiety in German Shepherds. Moving to a new home Changing families or guardians New household schedule, including new work or school hours Additions to the household such as a new baby, new roommate, or new pet Subtractions from the household such as a family member moving away or a pet passing away What Are the Signs of Separation Anxiety? First rule out things like barking at birds or cats outside, barking at the mail carrier, or barking at cars as they drive by. Destructive behavior is one of the hallmarks of separation anxiety. This can be especially devastating with a German Shepherd due to their size and strength. If your GSD has been chewing shoes, tearing up the furniture, or ripping the curtains down, she may be stressed out and suffering from separation anxiety. Some anxious GSDs even end up chewing the walls, doors, or floors! Escaping from confinement can be a sign of separation anxiety, but it can also just be a naughty dog behavior. Pacing or frequent position changes can indicate separation anxiety in a German Shepherd. As a working dog, GSDs already have lots of energy, but if your dog seems to pace or change positions frequently in your absence, she may be feeling anxious. This is often accompanied by panting, whining, and intense attention out a window or listening in the distance. Some dogs will exhibit these behaviors in front of their humans. When ruling out other causes of strange or upsetting behaviors, pay close attention to the details since many of the following issues can mimic separation anxiety in German Shepherds. Barking or Howling As mentioned above, some German Shepherds may like spending their days barking or howling at neighborhood cats, other dogs barking nearby, pedestrians, or even the phone ringing next door. This reactive barking or howling is not the same as separation anxiety. In these instances, the dog is either eliciting great joy in the barking and howling, or they are showing protective and alerting behaviors. You can tell if this is an anxiety-related issue in one simple way. Urination in the Wrong Place If your German Shepherd has started urinating all over the house or on the furniture, it could be separation anxiety. Or it could just be incomplete or incorrect potty training. It may also indicate a bladder infection or other urinary problems. Instead, look for lapses in your potty training or the bathroom routine. Maybe she needs a few extra trips outdoors each day or an indoor potty option. Untreated bladder infection or infections of the urinary tract can have serious complications. Urinating Out of Fear or Excitement Another urination issue to keep an eye out for is fear or excitement urination. These accidents happen quickly, without warning, and often in quick spurts or sprinkles. Some dogs do empty their whole bladder in these cases, but not always. If your dog is frightened—thunder, yelling in the household, for example—or is very excited to see you, they may have a small accident. This is uncontrolled and often seems to surprise the dog as much as the humans. Marking This is usually a male behavior, but females have been known to mark their territory with urine, too. Boredom By far, the most common cause of separation anxiety in German Shepherds is boredom. Imagine being stuck at home all day, every day, all alone, waiting for your favorite person to come home. Without the ability to leave or to create entertainment on their own, many GSDs resort to boredom behaviors. This can include barking, urinating, chewing, and pacing. Whether alone or with you, we have a great, in-depth article right here that covers ways to alleviate the boredom. Likely, your dog is eager for relief too! Positive Reinforcement As with human children, positive reinforcement of preferred behaviors is a stellar way to help a German Shepherd prevent or cope with separation anxiety. Your goal is to slowly change the fearful, anxious behaviors and reactions to calm and relaxed ones. You do so by rewarding calm behaviors and ignoring the negative ones. This works best for mild cases of separation anxiety, usually well before the bad behaviors have really taken hold. It also works with other behavior issues, not just separation anxiety. By gradually exposing your GSD to the trigger of their anxiety being alone , and rewarding the dog with pleasant things such as treats , you will begin to change the emotional reaction to the trigger. It can take some time to fully change the anxiety response to a calm one, but stick with it. Anything your GSD really loves can work in this situation. Give the dog 20 — 30 minutes to finish the treat, then come back. In this method, you gradually expose the dog to the fear trigger being alone , but not for a long enough period that they feel the full force of the anxiety. The best way to accomplish this is to first train your dog to perform the stay command while you step out of the room. Call him to you, reward, then repeat. You can start using the bathroom door or a bedroom door to separate you, then opening the door and calling him to you. Pre-departure Anxiety Be sure your dog is relaxed when you do start to leave the house. Many German Shepherds begin their anxiety behaviors even before you step outside the door. By watching for these signs and reacting appropriately, you can nip this in the bud right away. Figure out what the anxiety cue is for your dog. For others, it may be seeing a lunch box or bag sitting on the counter. Whatever it is for your dog, begin desensitizing her to that object or ritual. You do this by disrupting the negative association. Sit back on the couch with your shoes on, petting your dog, and acting calm. Stay Calm This advice is for you. Give her a positive trigger the toy or treat , and then simply leave the house. Set a Routine This may be one of the most important ways to help an anxious German Shepherd feel calmer. Changes in routine and schedules can be a huge upsetting influence on a dog. Try to keep to the same routine and schedule, even on your days off. This will help your German Shepherd feel more in control and less afraid. If he knows you wake at 7 in the morning, take him for a walk, feed him breakfast, and then leave for the day, be sure to follow that schedule every day as closely as possible. Routines bring peace and safety. You can eventually make some changes to the routine, slowly, once your dog is feeling less anxious. This advice is an offshoot of the counterconditioning and positive reinforcement section above. It could be a new toy, a puzzle, or a game to play in your absence. Medication may help You may have tried everything listed above, plus a million other creative ideas, and yet your dog is still anxious when you leave. There is no shame in helping a dog feel less anxious via medical intervention. Just as some humans need a little help from their doctors, so too do some German Shepherds. Ideally, medication would not be your first choice. And in a perfect world, you would not need to provide the medication forever. Medication is the right choice for some dogs. Do not yell at, scold, or discipline your dog. This will only exacerbate his fear and may make things even worse down the road. Do not ignore separation anxiety either. This is not a behavior that will get better all on its own. You need to figure out what works for your dog and then stick with it. Not just the training you already do, but new training, too. You may find some great tips from a local dog meet-up or by contacting a dog trainer that specializes in anxiety. Final Thoughts Understanding what separation anxiety is, what to look for, and how to treat it at home are all important ways to show love to your German Shepherd. When you can understand what causes your sweet pup to be so afraid or so anxious, you can take steps to remove the issue or to make the trigger less scary to begin with. By employing one or more of the strategies listed above you can help your GSD live a happier, healthier, and more confident life.
If your dog has behavioral issues allowing them on the bed might not benefit you. This was the first thing a dog expert pointed out to me. Dogs need boundaries and that includes boundaries around allowing them on the bed. Golden Retriever Sleeping in Bed Before you let your Golden Retriever sleep on your bed you should consider a few factors. This is a red flag to the idea of letting them sleep with you at night. I have two dogs, they are not Golden Retrievers , one has guarding and aggression issues so she is not allowed on my bed because she sees it as her territory. Talk to a dog trainer about how to correct such behaviors before allowing them to sleep on your bed. Age of your Golden Retriever It is not a good idea to keep dogs on your bed as this may be dangerous to them. Also, it may not be ideal for keeping your old dogs on your bed as they may have a hard time getting up there at their fragile age. Getting down quickly from the bed, if need be, may also be challenging. Allergies If you or your partner is mildly allergic, it is best not to keep them on your bed as this can worsen your symptoms and make it difficult for you or your partner to function correctly. It might be challenging to break the habit when started. When the Golden Retriever gets used to sleeping on a bed at night, bringing it to a stop may be somewhat tricky. Where can my Golden Retriever Sleep? You might have questions about Golden Retrievers sleeping. If you feel it is not a good idea for your Golden Retriever to sleep in your bed at night, there are other options. Lots of people have their dogs sleep in dog beds in their bedroom. Golden Retrievers can be comfortable in different locations in your home. One crucial factor is to know your dog. Some may be pretty okay sleeping on the living room couch with a warm blanket, or some prefer crates. It is also essential to take into account their age or personality. Golden Retriever puppies need more attention. It is, therefore, better to have them sleep in your room in a crate. They can sleep in a dog bed in another room They can sleep on the sofa They can sleep in a crate in another room Reasons you should let your dog sleep in your bed? You probably have decided to let your Golden Retriever sleep on your bed, but you want to know the impact this will have. Studies have shown that there are many benefits associated with the act, not just for your Golden Retriever but for you — the owner as well. Separation Anxiety Decreases Separation anxiety is common in some dogs; however, it is unclear why this happens. Studies have shown it may be an emotional response to a traumatic experience in the past. When your Golden Retriever spends adequate fun time with you and the experience being close to you most of the time, including during bedtime, they would less likely to develop separation anxiety because of the feeling of being with them most times. Bonding and Companionship Golden Retrievers are attention seekers; they were bred to accompany their owners. It is no surprise that this trait has been passed to newer generations of Golden Retrievers. Sleeping with them in bed at night is a great way to ensure companionship and improve bonding. Helping them Feel Safe Most dogs are scared of thunderclaps and lightning flashes, and your Golden Retriever may be no different. When your dog sleeps with you at night, it gives them the feeling of safety and extra warmth. It probably gives you a feeling of safety too! Also, most Golden Retrievers are heavy sleepers; they tend to sleep upwards of 10 hours a day and will most likely not move around a lot during the night. How many hours do golden retrievers sleep? Golden Retrievers need 10 hours of sleep a day. Give them somewhere they are comfortable sleeping. Still, should you let your golden retriever sleep in bed with you at night? Despite the debate among dog owners surrounding this question, the answer is YES. You can let your golden retriever sleep in bed with you. Generally, doing so offers you loads of benefits, including building a better relationship with your Golden and making both of you feel safer when sleeping. Having said that, you must know all the facts to understand both sides of this debate. Then, you can make a well-informed decision for yourself and your Golden Retriever. This article will help you with that by answering a few common questions surrounding the discussion. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Before we go on about whether or not we should let our Golden Retrievers sleep with us, it would be a good idea to figure out if they want to sleep in our beds, to begin with. Well, the answer to that is almost always a resounding YES! Dogs of all breeds would love nothing more than to share the same bed with their owners. But why is that? Your Golden Retriever has several reasons why they want to share your bed. Firstly, it comes from a place of warmth and love. They just want to be as close to you as possible, even at night when both of you are sleeping. Because of that, they stay close to you in the hopes of protecting you and vice versa. Letting them rest beside you at night will help you bond with your Golden and improve your relationship with him or her in the long run. On the other hand, science also tells us that doing so is also good for your overall physical and emotional health. For example, keeping your dog nearby while you sleep can lower your stress levels, potentially reducing the risk of hypertension and high blood pressure. That can lead to improved sleep quality and lower stress, which can then snowball to more significant improvements in your mental and emotional health! Still, there are some situations where that may not be such a good idea. So, if you or your partner are prone to allergic reactions because of this, keeping your Golden in your bed is not the best idea. If your dog is a digger, mud puddle diver or enjoys rolling in dead things on a regular basis, you may want to reconsider the sleeping arrangements. Honey, the Golden Retriever, wants to spoon with this pet owner. Sleep Problems Besides, having an extra four-legged occupant in the bed may also interrupt your sleep in the night. Having your Golden Retriever there with you may compromise your sleep, leaving you feeling tired or irritable throughout the day. You may sleep perfectly well with your Golden next to you, but your spouse may not have the same experience. That could put a strain on your relationship, which, left unchecked, could lead to a lot of friction. What about Golden Retriever puppies? Is it a good idea to let them sleep in your bed as well? When you first welcome a Golden Retriever puppy into your home, the puppy needs to adjust to its surroundings. Unfortunately, that means the puppy will need some time before it can sleep comfortably at night in its new home. Also, the sleep patterns of a young pup may still be developing, and they may not slumber through the night, causing you to be awakened several times each evening. For both those reasons, letting your Golden Retriever puppy spend its early life in a sleeping place like a crate is the best way to do things. On the plus side, you could place that crate inside your room so the puppy will sleep near you, just not on your bed. While having an adult dog sleep in your bed is no problem, issues may develop with an old golden retriever. While a Golden will generally just jump up onto the bed, senior dogs may reach a point where this is not physically possible anymore. There are two approaches you can take to alleviate this problem. The first would be to provide steps or a ramp to make it possible for your furry friend to get into bed. The Pet Gear Easy Steps Amazon are extra wide steps you can place next to your bed to make things easier. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! The other option is to set up a different sleeping arrangement altogether. Also, adding a blanket to your older dogs bed may be a good idea as well. A blanket will help them keep warm and add to their level of comfort. Still, you might be wondering what the other best places are for Golden Retrievers to get their rest at night? Besides your bed, plenty of Golden owners also train their dogs to sleep on the floor next to bed instead. In many ways, that offers you and the dog the best of both worlds. They get to stay nearby in their own sleeping space, while you get to enjoy the full comfort of your cozy bed without having to share. Beyond that, another great place for your dog to sleep is in a crate. As mentioned earlier, a crate makes the dog feel safe, and it helps you potty-train them. With a crate, you still have a choice to make, though. You can put the crate in your room where the dog can be near you, or you can place it in a separate room. That will depend entirely on which options provide you with more comfort. With all of that said, many owners of Golden Retrievers have one more option that they say gives their dogs the best sleep. They let them sleep wherever they want. Some Golden owners let their dogs sleep wherever they want throughout the house, so the dog gets to choose where to lay their head at night. Which one is the best of the best? Well, try all of those different approaches and see which one makes you and your Golden the happiest. What works for other people may not work for you, so a little bit of trial and error will go a very long way. When a brand new puppy, full of life and fun, joins your household, it quickly becomes one of the family. Dogs are pack animals, and they love to sleep with the other members of the pack and hang out together all day! Letting your dog sleep in your bed with you will stop them from suffering from separation anxiety during the night. It should stop them from crying or barking in the next-door room and potentially keeping you and your neighbors awake! However, there are many other advantages of allowing your Golden Retriever to sleep in your bed at night. Golden Retrievers sleep for an average of between hours a day! This is almost double what the average person sleeps, but our furry friends really do need it. Puppies need even more sleep than older dogs, though, and can often sleep for 18 hours a day while they are growing pups. Dogs also have a very different type of sleeping pattern to humans. When humans fall asleep they drift into a light sleep, then fall into the deep sleep and REM dreaming phases of the night. Dogs only have light sleep and REM dreams phases, which means they wake up at the slightest sound and pretty much sleep at any time of the day! They Bring You Comfort and Warmth. Having your dog curled up in the bed with you will let you sleep more deeply, and having a snuggle in the morning is the nicest way to start the day! If facing the prospect of a long cold winter is daunting, then having a furry companion to share the nights with will keep you warm and stop the shivering! A Golden Retriever is far better than an electric blanket or a hot water bottle! Plus, you get the extra benefit of their friendly personalities! Having the warmth of your dog at night is even more important in cold climates and can be a lifesaver during a winter power outage. No matter how chilly it gets, your dog will rapidly warm up the bed for you and keep it nice and cozy throughout the night. This can be especially important for people who have hypertension or chronically high blood pressure. Keeping your blood pressure down is one of the best indicators for living a long life. You can talk to your dog if you need a shoulder to cry on or just feel some emotional support. Insomnia can make it impossible to have a productive life and reach your full potential. Insomnia can lead to other health problems, including diabetes, so tackling it as soon as possible is crucial to good long-term health. Beat Depression. Depression can be one of the most debilitating conditions that can last for years at a time. All pets have been shown to have an amazing impact on mental health conditions such as depression, and so spending as much time as possible with them can be the path to better mental health! Having a pet dog, especially such a loving one as a Golden Retriever, can help build structure into your daily routine. They can also give you a reason to get out of bed in the morning to go for a walk — which has also been shown to improve your mental health. Feel Safe And Secure. This will make you feel safe and secure in your bed at night just by knowing that your dog is by your side as you snooze. Spending time with your dog is vital to creating the kind of strong, lifelong bonds that all pet owners want to develop. Dogs know that humans are also social animals, which is one reason why they make such good pets. Whatever You Decide Be Consistent. After your dog has learned its routine, you should try to stick to it as closely as possible. Golden Retrievers and Your Children. Of all the fantastic breeds of dogs, no dog is more trustworthy, loving, and safe around children. Your Golden Retriever will protect your children from strangers and be a wonderful childhood companion for them as they grow up. Children who have pets, especially dogs, are much less likely to suffer from allergies in the future and are more resilient to chronic conditions such as asthma. Your dog will also help your children to stay in good physical shape by encouraging them to play outdoors and throw sticks for them to chase. Your Golden Retriever has an unlimited reserve of energy, and its fun-loving nature is ideal for your children to grow up with. Every child and situation is different, but once your child is a bit older, you can let their pet dog sleep in the room or bed. A pet dog is a reliable, steady, and loving friend and your children will go from strength to strength as they grow up with their Golden Retriever. Dogs can have invaluable therapeutic effects on children and so if they experience stress at school, depression, or anxiety, then a dog can be the factor that helps them to be their very best selves! Having a pet dog in their lives can boost their self-esteem and give them the confidence they need to succeed in life. It can change your life for the better to allow your Golden Retriever to share the bed with you. If you are sleeping with your dog in the bed at night, be aware that they can overheat, so keep an eye out for the symptoms, including sweating through the paws and panting. Always make sure that there is a bowl of water that your dog can get to during the night in case they get too hot and need to cool down. Allowing your Golden Retriever to sleep in your bed with you has so many benefits that cannot be ignored; however, once you choose to allow your dog to do so, you need to be consistent and stick with your decision.
With over 40 years of experience, Shawn trains people to properly establish and maintain leadership roles with their canine companions. Shawn has trained with several acclaimed canine experts and refined The Dog Way training methods through experience and observation of dogs' natural interactions within their groups. Deciding you want to purchase a pug puppy is exciting. However, you want to make sure you find the right puppy for you. Make sure you seek out reputable breeders so your puppy does not come with any health problems. Visit the puppies in person and choose the one that suits your needs. Ask the breeder plenty of questions about the puppy's current health and pedigree. Before bringing your new friend home, make sure your house is puppy proofed. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Pug puppies come with a unique set of needs. Puppies in general require more care than an adult dog. Before embarking on your journey to find a pug puppy, consider whether you can accommodate one at the moment. Make sure you have time for a puppy. Puppies need extra feeding, as well socialization and training. If you have a very busy schedule, you may want to wait for things to settle down before getting a puppy. Pugs, as a pet, require some maintenance. The folds in their faces need regular cleaning, and they're also prone to a great deal of shedding. Make sure you can live with frequent grooming, and accept the fact your house will never quite be hair-free. Like all breeds, pugs are prone to certain health problems. While a good breeder is adept at breeding out such problems, there are certain problems that are hard to breed out. These are usually simply due to how a pug is built. Learn the risks associated with pugs and make sure you're prepared to deal with them down the road. All pugs, regardless of breeding, are prone to eye problems. Pug's distinctive, bulging eyes expose a large area of their corneas, which puts their eyes at risk of drying out or forming ulcers. You may have to deal with frequent vet visits to deal with eye issues. Pugs are very prone to overheating because their flattened faces makes it hard for them to breathe. This problem can be even worse in hot weather, and overheating can cause serious health issues for a pug. Behaviorally, pugs are a more social breed. They are more prone to separation anxiety issues than other breeds. If you're gone a lot, a pug may not be the right dog for you. When searching for a breeder, there are a few places to scratch off your list right away. Puppy mills and very obviously bad breeders should be avoided. You're more likely to get a pug with existing health problems, or the risk of developing health problems down the road. In general, do not trust a breeder who simply sells dogs online from any given buyer. A breeder who does not ask any questions is probably not a good breeder. Responsible breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes. Puppy mills sometimes sell puppies to pet stores, so avoid buying a pug from a pet store. Puppy mills may also sell pugs online. If you can simply look at a picture of a puppy and purchase it, this is probably a puppy mill. Start your search locally. If you're lucky, you will be able to find a breeder who lives nearby. Look for ads in the newspaper, online, at local pet stores and veterinary clinics, and at any local pet clubs. A breeder in your area is convenient, as you will not have to travel far to see the puppies. Just because someone is a local breeder, do not assume they are an ethical one. Make sure to visit any breeder in person and look at the puppies physically before purchasing one. Unfortunately, not all areas have pug breeders close by. In some cases, you may have to travel to meet and select a puppy. There are many places you can look online to locate the nearest pug breeder. The Pug Dog Club keeps a list of reputable breeders online. You can search for the closest breeder there. The American Kennel Club also has a database of dog breeders. You can search there by breed. Remember to have patience. Even if you find a good breeder relatively close to you, they may not have puppies available for a while. You may have to wait a few months before taking home your pug puppy. Call a few breeders during your search. Pay close attention to your interactions. Learn the signs of a good breeder. Only work with breeders who are responsible and care about their dogs. Their facilities should be clean and spacious. They will be flexible in scheduling a time for you to see the puppies. A solid breeder will usually only breed one type of dog, or only a few types of dogs. The breeder should be very knowledgeable of pugs. During your initial conversation, the breeder will want to go over some basic pug care information with you. Good breeders do not have anything to hide. Not only will the be willing to let you see the dog's pedigree and meet their parents, they will actually encourage this. When you select a breeder to meet up with, make sure to ask a variety of questions. You want to make sure their puppies are a good match for you and your home. You also want to make sure the breeder is responsible and that the puppies are in good health. Interacting with a dog's mother and father can give you a sense of your puppy's future temperament. Ask questions about the breeder's credentials. Ask how long they've been breeding pugs. A more experienced breeder is more likely to produce healthier puppies. Ask about the puppy's parents. Make sure the parents do not have any inheritable diseases. Ask if you can see the health certificates for the parents on request. You should also ask about what treatment the puppies have received. Have they been vaccinated or de-wormed? Have they been spayed or neutered yet? When you get a chance to interact with the puppies, look closely at the puppy's you like. Pugs are prone to certain abnormalities. You can detect a potential issue by examining the dog's eyes, as well as how it breathes and moves. Watery eyes, squinted eyes, or glazed over eyes are signs of poor health. Hold the puppy close to you to hear it breathe. Raspy, labored breathing is generally a bad sign. Watch the puppy moving and at rest. It's not uncommon for pugs to breathe through their mouths when running around. However, a resting puppy should be able to comfortably breathe through its nose. There should be no signs of limping or an uneven gain if the puppies are old enough to walk. If you notice a puppy walking funny, listen for a clicking noise from the hips. This indicates the dog may develop hip problems later in life. As you interact with the puppies, aim for one with a good temperament. You want a puppy that's not too shy, but also one that's not overly rambunctious. You want a puppy that allows you to pick it up without squirming. A very aggressive or very standoffish puppy can be a problem. Once you've selected two or three pugs you like, request one-on-one time with them. You want a puppy that is friendly away from its litter. A friendly puppy will wag its tail, allow you to pet it, and look at you when you talk. A good breeder will be as scrutinizing of you as you are of them. Breeders want to make sure their dogs go to good homes, so don't be put off if a breeder asks you a lot of questions. This is a good sign. The breeder wants to make sure you will take good care of the puppy. They will also want to know about your general lifestyle and how you plan to care for the dog. If this is your first pug, don't panic. A breeder is unlikely to reject you simply because you don't have specific experience with pugs. As long as you've done some research on the breed, the breeder will probably be willing to sell to you if you're responsible. A good breeder will always be willing to provide this information. After selecting the puppy you want, ask for its pedigree as well as a certificate of health. These papers should assure you the puppy is in good health, and that its family tree is relatively free of inheritable conditions. Puppies need frequent vet visits. You should have a certification on hand showing what vaccinations and other treatments your dog has already received. As you prepare to bring your puppy home, make sure you're ready. Your puppy should enter your home with all the supplies it needs to thrive ready. You will need the following: [7] X Research source A crate to transport your puppy home and for crate training later Bedding Collar, leash, and identification tag Toys Grooming supplies i. Before bringing your dog home, you will need to pug proof your house. Pugs are inquisitive animals and prone to getting into things. You want to make sure your pug cannot get into any dangerous substances or places. Make sure all electrical wires are covered or out of reach. Keep things like household cleaners and detergents out of reach. Place them in high kitchen cabinets. Prevent access to staircases, as young pugs can easily slip and fall on the stairs. A good breeder will present you with a contract prior to purchase. This outlines your basic responsibilities and the breeder's return policy. Read the contract carefully before signing. If there's anything you don't understand, ask the breeder. You want the option of returning a dog in the event it has a health problem you cannot afford to treat. Once the contract is signed and your home is ready, you can bring your new friend home. You can now enjoy your pug puppy, and begin the process of training and caring for your new lifelong friend. Why Is My Dog Shaking? Dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship, but when they start shaking, it can be a cause for concern for pet owners. Shaking in dogs can be a sign of various issues, from dog anxiety and dog fear to dog medical conditions. In this blog post, we will explore the common causes of a dog shaking and what pet owners can do to identify and treat the problem. We will also offer tips for preventing dog shaking and ensuring.By doing regular grooming at home, you can help your dog look its best between visits to the groomer. You also get to bond more closely and build stronger trust with your dog. Routine grooming sessions will keep your dog clean and feeling fresh, but it will also.Their personality is lively, their nature fun-loving, and their disposition affectionate. As even-tempered, sweet, and playful dogs, Pugs make wonderful playmates for kids of all ages and lovely companion pets for couples, singles, and seniors. These little joy bringers love to cuddle and are generous with their Pug love. When it comes to their family, Pugs attach like magnets. They are known to happily shadow their humans in every activity and are just as happy lazing on the couch all day as they are going for a long evening stroll around the neighborhood. Should I buy a pug puppy at a pet store? Before you start: Before you start looking for pug breeders, there are a few things you should do to improve your experience. Understand breed standards — Not all pugs are created equal. Some are show quality and bred to match breed standards, while others may be off on a few aesthetic details. Have patience — The process of finding a pug breeder, waiting for a litter and bringing your puppy home can take months! How to find pug breeders Finding breeders to reach out to is step one. There are a number of ways of find reputable breeders: Reach out to friends — Have a friend or acquaintance with a pug? Reach out to them about their experience and breeder info. Slide into their DMs and ask about their breeder. Attend one to get the low down on litters. More on this below. Be prepared to do your research and ask lots of questions. Here are questions the breeder should be prepared to answer: What requirements do you have of people looking to take home one of your puppies? Breeders should be as interested in you as you are in them. They should ask about you, your family and your household. Can I meet the parents? Plus, seeing the parents will give you an idea of what their puppies will be like both in terms of temperament and looks. Have health tests been performed on the parents? This will ensure both parents are healthy and free of genetic diseases common to the pug breed. How long have you been breeding and what is your experience with this breed? Breeders should have a deep understanding of the breed and a history that includes either showing dogs or being part of a breed club. How do you socialize your puppies? Puppies should be well socialized in a home environment so they grow to be well-adjusted dogs. When will I be able to take the puppy home? Responsible breeders will not allow puppies to be taken home until they are at least ten weeks old. Puppies should be up-to-date on vaccinations and come with a health guarantee and contract for you to sign. Many breeders will also require you to agree to spay or neuter the dog, unless you plan to show them. A breeder should welcome back any dog that you can no longer care for. Can we speak to references and your vet? The breeder should be willing to provide references from others who have purchased their puppies, as well as the contact information for their veterinarian. Are you available as a resource after I take the puppy home? They should provide care instructions and be available as a resource. Reputable breeders are interested in you, your family and your household. Pug puppy scams Puppy scams are rampant all across the internet. In many cases, the puppy advertised never even existed. According to the Better Business Bureau, 3. You can learn ways to avoid puppy scams by checking for the following breeder red flags. Pug breeder red flags If you pay attention, you can avoid puppy scams and backyard breeders. If the pug breeder does any of the following things, run the other way. Absolutely not. Pet stores get their puppies from puppy mills, commercial dog breeding facilities that keeps dogs in cruel and unsafe conditions. Remember those sad dog commercials with the Sarah McLaughlin music? Those are puppy mills. There are an estimated 10, puppy mills in the United States. All they care about is money and churning out puppies. Dogs are kept in horrid conditions, receive no veterinary care, and are often sick and underfed. The majority of puppies sold in pet stores come from puppy mills. Click here to learn more about pug prices. Click here to learn more about pug stuff. Pin for later! Wyoming Pug Rescue Be patient! It might take months to find the perfect pug for you. Be patient with the process. Do your research. Before agreeing to work with a rescue, read their reviews, their policies, and check their c 3 status. You can do a search for their records here. The adoption process can take anywhere from days, to weeks, to months. Does the rescue adopt out of state? What is the adoption fee? Is the application open or do you have to apply for a specific dog? Are you allowed to meet available dogs before adopting? Be Kind Pug rescues are run by dedicated volunteers who spend their free time helping needy pugs. Always be kind and respectful. They work hard so that you can bring home your new pup. Common Pug Rescue Questions Are there pug puppies for adoption? Pug puppies are incredibly popular, so getting your hands on one available for adoption might be difficult. The best way to have a chance at adopting a pug puppy is to turn in an adoption application and become approved for adoption early, if possible. Then wait for a puppy to become available. Is there a pug shelter? Are there black pugs for adoption? Pug rescues rescue pugs of all sizes, ages, mixes, and colors. There tend to be more fawn pugs available, but there are also black pugs, apricot pugs, and more. No pug rescue in your area? Use Petfinder to locate an adoptable pug near you. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament ACA delightful blend of dignity and comedy, the Pug is an amiable, playful, and confident companion. They can be stubborn and headstrong, but they are pleasant and generally willing to please. They love to cavort and show off. Upkeep The Pug needs daily exercise, either in the form of a lively game or a moderate walk. They do not do well in heat and humidity. They needs minimal coat care but daily cleaning of facial wrinkles. Their smooth coat needs only occasional brushing to remove dead hairs; however, the wrinkles need regular cleaning and drying to prevent skin infections. The Pug may often wheeze and snore. Health Major concerns: Pug dog encephalitis, CHD, brachycephalic syndrome Minor concerns: elongated palate, stenotic nares, patellar luxation, Legg-Perthes, entropion, KCS, skin infections, hemivertebra Occasionally seen: seizures, nerve degeneration, distichiasis, allergies, demodicosis Suggested tests: eye, hip, knee, DNA Pug dog encephalitis Life span: 12—15 years Note: The Pug cannot tolerate heat and is sensitive to anesthesia. They are prone to corneal abrasion and obesity. The Pug is somewhat of an exception in the Toy Group because they are perhaps the only one to be descended from mastiff forebears. Although their exact ancestry has been lost in antiquity, the Pug retains many mastiff characteristics. The Pug is an ancient breed, one of several miniaturized in the Orient, where they were a favorite pet of Buddhist monasteries in Tibet many centuries ago. Here they became quite popular and were recognized as the official dog of the House of Orange after one saved the life of Prince William by sounding an alarm at the approach of Spanish soldiers in .Pugs were first brought to England during Victorian times and became incredibly popular with the wealthy, displacing the King Charles Spaniel as the favored royal breed. Several Pugs were brought to England from China in .A year earlier, the breed had been recognized by the AKC. Since that time, they have remained popular a pet. Related Content.
Learn more » Dogs are intelligent creatures, often full of curiosity. Sometimes their curiosity can get the better of them and you may suddenly find your pet with their nose in the trash, rummaging through the rubbish and working their way through a pile of dirty paper towels. What do you do when you realize your dog ate a paper towel? This is a guide on how to deal with your overly curious pet and the incident of paper towel snacking. Please note: if you discover that your pet has eaten something potentially harmful, it is always best to call your veterinarian immediately. Paper towels, toilet rolls, and tissues like Kleenex are all made from wood pulp. Dogs cannot digest paper towels. This means that paper towels and tissues can form a blockage in a dog. Whether this blockage forms depends on the amount eaten, how small the pieces were, and the size of your dog—as well as some luck. The other danger of dogs eating paper towels is that they may contain harmful substances, depending on what they were used for. Cleaning products, bleach, nail varnish remover, and rubbing alcohol can all be dangerous to dogs if eaten. If your dog ate paper towels, this information is vital to share with your vet as it will affect the treatment plan for your dog. Is it a small piece of clean paper towel fresh off the roll? Or is it a scrunched-up pile of kitchen roll used to wipe up the bacon grease from breakfast this morning? Or it is a handful of toilet roll that was used to clean up a bleach spill in the bathroom? However, this is a really important step, particularly if the paper towel was used to clean up spills of things like grease, bleach, or nail varnish remover, which can be harmful to dogs if consumed. Find Out When It Was Eaten Hopefully, if your dog ate a paper towel, you caught them in the act, so you know exactly when they ate the paper towel. However, some dogs prefer a little privacy for their snacking, and you may only notice an upturned bin or a mess by the kitchen counter when you return to the scene of the crime hours later. If they have eaten something that could cause harm, there are a couple of time-sensitive treatment options that your vet may perform. For instance, for some types of towels, removing them before it gets into the guts is best—either by causing vomiting or using a long, flexible camera called an endoscope. The contents of the stomach move into the guts within around 2 hours, meaning if you wait rather than call your vet, you might miss out on these easy and safe treatment options. Check Your Dog Depending on the amount and content of the paper towel consumed, dogs may react very differently. Some may appear perfectly fine and continue their day as normal, including eating and drinking without difficulty. Others may start to vomit, particularly if they have eaten a large volume of paper towel, or if it contains substances such as grease or bleach. They can be quiet, appear uncomfortable and unable to settle, and refuse to drink water or eat food. If they have eaten a lot of paper towel, their bellies can look bloated, which may be tender when touched. If several hours have passed after eating the paper towel, your dog may have diarrhea since it can irritate the lining of the intestines as it passes through the digestive tract. They can strain to go to the toilet and may pass small pieces of the paper towel in their stool. No matter how your dog is currently behaving, it is always best to contact your vet for advice as sometimes, it can take a few hours for the damage to be noticeable, especially if your dog is stoical. Image Credit: Gladskikh Tatiana, Shutterstock 4. Ring Your Veterinarian Once you have done some detective work and figured out what and how much your dog ate, when they ate it, and how they are looking, call your vet. They will ask you the questions that have been mentioned above so they can provide the best care possible for your dog. If it is a small amount of clean kitchen roll or toilet paper, you may not need to take them in. However, if your dog ate a large amount of paper towel, has eaten any amount of paper towel with a harmful substance, or is unwell, vomiting, or having diarrhea, your vet will probably want to see your dog immediately. If they have a blockage caused by the paper towel, this may cause them to start vomiting. And if your vet decides your dog needs an anesthetic for an X-ray or surgery, it is best that they have not eaten beforehand. The more information your vet has, the better. They may call a specialist poison unit that will offer information on how to deal with different chemicals so your dog can receive the best treatment. Your vet may recommend several options, depending on all the factors mentioned above. Some things your vet may want to do include: 1. Giving Your Dog an Injection to Make Them Sick Image Credit: Photographee, Shutterstock Your vet can give your dog an injection to make them sick as long as the paper towel was eaten within the last 2—3 hours. Admitting Your Dog to Hospitalize and Monitor Them Your veterinarian might recommend that your dog is hospitalized so they can keep a close eye on their symptoms and be ready to react if the paper towel begins to cause a problem. This involves taking a blood sample from the arm or neck and running it through a machine. The machine measures levels of enzymes and chemicals in the blood that might indicate a problem with the organs. This involves putting a needle into their veins and giving them fluids to rehydrate them. This is especially important for vomiting dogs who might not be able to keep water down. Taking an X-ray can help. Performing Surgery to Remove the Paper Towel If your dog does get a blockage, removing the blockage by surgery is the only option. You cannot get a dog to pass a blockage any other way. Your veterinary surgeon can open the guts and remove the blockage and may even need to take some damaged gut out as well. It is important to stay calm and seek veterinary help as soon as you discover that your dog ate a paper towel so they can receive the right treatment promptly and be back to causing trouble as soon as possible! You may also like:. Pawing at the mouth or throat Hacking cough Loss of appetite Trouble breathing The nature and severity of these symptoms will vary and depend on the object that is stuck in the dog's esophagus. Coughing is often among the first signs. While dogs may cough, vomit or show the other symptoms on this list for different reasons, it is always a good idea to rule out esophageal obstruction, that is something stuck in their throat. Another important thing to keep in mind if you are trying to determine whether something is stuck in your dog's throat is to consider the breed. Some dog breeds are greedier than others or anatomically more prone to choking. Among the naturally gluttonous breeds are Labradors, Golden Retrievers and Beagles which may be more likely to eat something they shouldn't and end up choking. There are other dog breeds which are more likely to suffer problems related to choking. These are known as brachycephalic dogs and include breeds such as Bulldogs, Pugs and some breeds of mastiff. Due to breeding for certain aesthetic traits, these animals have an elongated soft palate, narrowed nostrils and a reduced trachea. This means that they have shorter throats which often leads to difficulty breathing. This causes them to make wheezing sounds even if they are not choking, and experience airway obstruction even without swallowing foreign objects. While we may love individual dogs in this breed, there have been many calls by veterinary experts recommending that we stop encouraging these types of breeds due to the risks they pose to a dog's health [1]. What you can do to help If your dog has something stuck in their throat you can try these steps to help remove the object: Try to remove the object by hand: immediately open their mouth to take a look at the entire cavity. See if you can remove the object by hand. Much will depend on what type of object has been swallowed. Sometimes you cannot remove the object yourself, and the dog will require veterinary attention. It is not advisable to remove objects with sharp points or edges, such as splintered bones or scissors, as you could hurt the dog. Likewise, if you feel any resistance, stop at once as you may do more damage by trying to remove the object yourself. Use gravity: you can also try use the help of gravity to get your dog to cough the object out by themselves. If you have a small dog, you can hold them head facing down and pat their back as you would do with a human choking. In the case of large dogs, raising their hind legs can be a great help. If your dog is too large or heavy, don't try this as you could injure yourself and the dog. Heimlich manoeuvre: place yourself behind the dog, either standing or kneeling. Wrap your arms around them and and support their legs with your own legs. Apply pressure behind the ribs, inwards and upwards, so that they start to cough or retch. The more they salivate the better, as this will make it easier for the object dislodge from their throat and slide out. Visit the vet: finally, even if you've managed to remove the object through either of these techniques, you should go to your vet to assess any internal injuries and possible treatments. Swallowing a foreign object can cause your dog serious digestive problems , even if they do not choke on it. Therefore, the final and most important step is to take your dog to the vet for a check up. The Heimlich manoeuvre can be useful if your dog has something stuck in their throat, but it can be dangerous if the coughing has a different cause. Be careful not to exert too much pressure or cause any trauma. Those with dogs who may have a higher chance of choking should consider doing a canine first aid course to be well prepared to help their pet. Treatment for objects stuck in a dog's throat Even if the dog doesn't seem otherwise ill, getting something stuck in their throat or swallowing a foreign object can be a veterinary emergency. If you have tried all of the above without success you need to go to the vet. The more time that passes, the harder it will be to treat. The vet may even have to resort to surgery to remove the object from the dog's esophagus. First of all, they will try to locate the foreign body. This is done by performing an x-ray as soon as possible. Treatment will be determined depending on a number of factors the vet will consider, including the nature of the object and overall health of the dog. Here are some of the most common treatments: If less than 48 hours have passed since the object got stuck, and depending on its location and position, the vet might be able to remove using an endoscopy. The dog is sedated, a tube with a camera is inserted into the throat, and a pincer can remove the object. The vet may also try orally applying liquid vaseline if they think the object is more easily reachable. If 48 hours have already passed, the vet will assess the need for surgery to remove the foreign body. Part of the problem is that by this time there will already be adhesions in the digestive tract. It is very important to consult the vet and not to medicate your pet with antidiarrheals, antiemetics or painkillers, because these will only hide the symptoms, not solve the problem. Prevention Finally, it is important to emphasize the role of prevention. This is the best way to keep your dog from suffering the ordeal of something lodged in their throat. Although you cannot supervise your dog at all times, here are some ways to lessen the risk of your furry friend chocking: Don't leave small objects lying around which your dog might accidentally swallow, especially in places where they can reach or are left unsupervised. Be careful what you feed your dog. Cooked bones , for example, can be very dangerous as they shatter easily and can get stuck in the throat. Avoid large chunks in their food, so that it is easier to chew and swallow. My dog is coughing - other possible reasons It is important to remember that a foreign object in a dog's throat isn't the only reason they may make choking sounds or start coughing. The sound of a dog asphyxiating may not be too dissimilar to a dog coughing for an underlying health reason. Some of them may include: The cold or flu: while dogs cannot get our colds and vice versa, but there are many canine cold and flu viruses which can lead to coughing. Look at other symptoms such as a runny nose , sneezing or shivering. Distemper: another viral infection, canine distemper is unfortunately much more serious than a cold. A key early symptom is watery or pus discharge from the dog's eyes. Immediate veterinary treatment is needed and it can be fatal if not addressed quickly enough. Kennel cough: scientifically known as canine infectious tracheobronchitis , this is often passed on by dogs in close proximity to each other. Its symptoms include a hacking cough which mimics the sound of something stuck in the throat. Heart disease: when a dog has heart disease, coughing can be one of the many symptoms. Make sure you look at other symptoms of heart problems in dogs and take them to the vet for diagnosis. Strangulation: strangulation of asphyxiation in dogs is usually due to neglect and sometimes even abuse from an owner. If a dog's collar gets caught, it can lead to strangulation. Unfortunately, many children who do not know any better may engage in this practice thinking they are only playing. Heartworm: this is a parasitical infection which affects the dog's heart. Its symptoms include coughing, accelerated breathing, weight loss and even fainting. Heartworm in dogs is very dangerous and requires immediate veterinary treatment. It is important to know whether your dog is choking due to something stuck in their throat or for another reason, so keep an eye out for other symptoms. This also means considering the circumstance in which you first see the dog coughing. Is there a child nearby who could have done something? Are there pieces of a possible foreign object lying around or traces of food? Answering these questions will help you determine whether your dog has something stuck in their throat, so that you can act appropriately. This article is purely informative. AnimalWised does not have the authority to prescribe any veterinary treatment or create a diagnosis. We invite you to take your pet to the veterinarian if they are suffering from any condition or pain. References Packer, R. Impact of facial conformation on canine health: brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome. PloS One, 10 .Written by: Dr. Katy Nelson March 29, If you have ever had a dog, no matter the age, size or breed, you know that going to the restroom is a joint activity. And with those big, beady eyes looking at you looking at all of you things can sometimes be a bit awkward. Here are 18 things only people who share their bathroom with their dog understand…. The first time your pup followed you in the bathroom it was quite an event. You had to teach your pup some boundaries. Your bath mat has a completely different purpose now. Would it be weird to get a bathroom bed? Your pup has peer pressured you to play ball at some inopportune moments Certain bathroom visits require all our attention. Come back! That was the last toilet paper roll! Because, for some reason, you feel the need to entertain your pup! You try to cover up your unmentionables. To maintain a shred of privacy. But you definitely cover your butt. You feel judged if you happen to be taking awhile. You never rush them …usually. You never feel judged for anything else, though. Except when you have guests over, then things get awkward. With just a little bit of training, you could have your own toilet butler! Dreams DO come true! Going to the bathroom alone has become a distant memory We are in this together! Please leave this field blank. By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from:. We use cookies for our legitimate interests of providing you with personalized content, enabling you to more easily use our website, evaluating use of our website, and assisting with ad reporting functions. For more detailed information about how we use cookies, please review our Privacy Policy. By checking the "I agree" box, you consent to our use of cookies on this website. You may revoke this consent by contacting SafetyCall at privacy safetycall. Certain cookies are necessary for the website to function. I agree to Pet Poison Helpline's use of cookies on this website. Out of these, the cookies that are categorized as necessary are stored on your browser as they are essential for the working of basic functionalities of the website. We also use third-party cookies that help us analyze and understand how you use this website. These cookies will be stored in your browser only with your consent. You also have the option to opt-out of these cookies. But opting out of some of these cookies may affect your browsing experience. Necessary Always Enabled Necessary cookies are absolutely essential for the website to function properly. This category only includes cookies that ensures basic functionalities and security features of the website. These cookies do not store any personal information. Non-necessary Non-necessary Any cookies that may not be particularly necessary for the website to function and is used specifically to collect user personal data via analytics, ads, other embedded contents are termed as non-necessary cookies. It is mandatory to procure user consent prior to running these cookies on your website. Diarrhoea Dehydration Of course, eating toilet paper is not the only reason for these kinds of symptoms to appear in dogs, but they are all indicative of intestinal blockage, which is always a medical emergency. If you are in doubt at all, please go to your vet straight away. Here are my top tips you can use to get your dog to stop eating toilet paper making all that mess around your home! Keep the bathroom door closed! The simplest answer is to make sure that your bathroom door is always shut. That brings an end to the game and will stop your pooch from getting to the toilet roll holder. This is essential because there is one thing worse than chewed toilet paper… a toilet door that is getting scratched to pieces! Some of the best toys for big chewers are things like the popular Kong view on Amazon. An alternative could be a game that requires more mental dexterity, such as a puzzle. Either of these toys will keep your dog busy and should alleviate the boredom which is often at the root of why dogs eat toilet paper. Keep your dog exercised Bored and inactive dogs will look to entertain themselves, and this can manifest itself in many different ways. Some dogs like to chew through partition walls , others like to eat paper towels. You can stop your dog from eating toilet paper and forming destructive habits by keeping them well exercised. We try to walk our own dog at least twice a day which helps to tire him out and keep his mind active. Spend more time with your dog If your dog is eating toilet rolls to get your attention, then you could give your dog what he or she wants… more of you! Get a vet to check for an underlying issue I mentioned earlier what the issues could be, and often it will take a vet examination to confirm what the exact problem is. Your dog could be hungry which will be simple to spot, but for more complex things like nutrient deficiencies, pica, stress, and illness may need a professional diagnosis. Conclusion Dogs are simple creatures and often the most plausible and obvious thing will be the reason for a behavior… and this applies to toilet roll eating too where most dogs do it just because they can! He wanted to get involved, it became a funny game, and he loved the attention. Accidental ingestion is one of the most common emergencies at Tier 1. Whether your pet consumes an indigestible object or a toxic substance, please bring them to the vet as soon as possible. Early intervention can prevent a potentially life-threatening situation. Foreign Objects If your pet ingests something like a sock, part of a toy, or some other type of fabric or plastic that may get stuck in the lower intestine, we encourage you to get your pet to the vet as soon as possible. Socks or Other Fabric Some animal GI experts argue that dogs eat socks and underwear because of an underlying GI issue such as a food allergy or intolerance. There is likely a behavioral component to the act of consuming fabric as well. Just like some dogs like the chew and eat sticks, others enjoy socks. The issue with animals eating fabric is that textiles are not able to be broken down and passed through the digestive system like a stick. Depending on the size of your dog and the size of the sock, they may be able to vomit it back up or eventually pass it through their excretions. Smaller dogs have more difficulty passing non-digestible objects. In this case, your vet may use an endoscope to remove the object, or they may have to perform surgery. Toys or Other Plastic Objects Similar to fabric, plastic objects can also cause complications when accidentally ingested by your pet. This creates a choking hazard. If your pet has a habit of chewing vigorously on their toys, only allow them to play with those toys under supervision. If you have children who play with blocks, toy cars, or other small knick-knacks, make a habit of cleaning them up after use. Toxic Substances In addition to your pet ingesting foreign objects, accidental ingestion of toxic substances also presents complications. Some of the most common toxicities that we see are raisins, THC products, human pharmaceuticals, mushrooms, and chocolate. Raisins Sometimes people think that grapes or raisins are a fun, bite-sized treat for their pet. In reality, they are toxic. Although the substance in grapes and raisins that makes them toxic to dogs is not confirmed, we do know that consuming them can be potentially fatal. Canine ingestion of grapes or raisins causes kidney damage and can result in the following symptoms: Decreased urine production.
Emotional Sensitivity Several elements influence the price of a toy poodle. It is necessary to determine if you want to adopt a rehomed toy poodle or acquire a puppy. The cost of rehoming a toy poodle puppy is significantly less than the initial purchase price. The following are some factors that have an impact on the cost of toy poodles. Lineage The lineage of the toy poodle puppy is another aspect that influences the price of a toy poodle puppy. Puppies whose parents, grandparents, or any other parent in his lineage has won a dog show award are more valuable. Health Examinations Health and genetic testing will be performed on the puppies and their parents by ethical, respected breeders. That is expensive and necessitates considerable risk on the part of the breeder. That is a reflection of the price of their puppies. The breeder will conduct genetic testing on the parent dogs to offer you a companion that is the least prone to acquire problems. Location The cost of a toy poodle puppy is also affected by your location. A greater cost of living indicates that raising litter will be more expensive. Toy poodles, on the other hand, are significantly less expensive in the Midwest, where the cost of living is much lower. You must, however, consider the expense of getting the toy poodle puppy from that location to your home. Some hues are more scarce than others. Some owners are looking for a one-of-a-kind hue in a toy poodle. Because there are so few special toy poodles, breeders typically demand a premium for them. Phantom black with brown paws and eyebrows , Sable a reddish-brown , red and white party white with red patches , and tri-colored are some of the most unusual and costly hues black and white party with brown eyebrows and paws. These hues are likely to be more expensive than more popular colors like black, brown, cream, white, grey, and silver. Important Characteristics of a Toy Poodle Toy poodles are charming household dogs who like being in the spotlight. They are bright and respond well to obedience training, although their companionable temperament might cause separation anxiety. They get along well with youngsters and other pets, and their diminutive stature makes them ideal for living in small settings. Some of the basic features of a toy poodle are discussed below. Appearance The height and weight of a toy Poodle and a standard Poodle are the only major differences. They have the same coat colors, markings, and characteristics as a standard-sized Poodle. They were made for friendship and called toys since they are less than 10 inches. This dog looks to be well-built and proportioned. Their nostrils will be black, and their eyes will be incredibly dark and sparkling. Males should stand between 7 and 10 inches tall and weigh pounds. Females should be inches tall with a weight of pounds. Colors and Coat They come in a range of hues, making it difficult to pick just one. Blues, greys, browns, creams, and more tones in between make up this palette. The red toy Poodle and the black toy Poodle are the most popular. There is almost no shedding in their coat, which is fantastic for allergy sufferers. It will, however, take longer and demand more work than other dog breeds. Their coat is prone to matting. That leads to unpleasant illnesses if not properly cared for them. Every four to six weeks, the coat should be groomed. Temperament Poodles are extremely intelligent dogs. They have strong personalities and learn things quickly and believe themselves to be an important member of the family. They believe that they are being left out of family events, they will become irritated. This temperament is, of course, a double-edged sword. Toy poodles are loyal family dogs who like being the center of attention, learning new skills, and going on walks. Emotional Sensitivity When it comes to stress, Toy Poodles are particularly sensitive. If the folks in their house are experiencing family troubles, they may become sick to their stomachs, with digestive disturbances and worry. Toy Poodles are calm and sensitive canines that love to live in a serene and happy environment. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Although she stands no more than 10 inches tall and weighs between 4—6 pounds, the Toy Poodle has a big, playful personality that can fill up a room. While frequently associated with France, Standard Poodles were first developed in Germany, where they were used in duck hunting. They have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Poodles of all sizes have curly coats with extensive grooming needs. Their coat grows continuously, calling for a trim every four to six weeks. However, there is no such thing as a completely "hypoallergenic" dog. People with allergies should spend time with the breed before officially bringing home a Toy Poodle puppy. But during this long life , they are predisposed to a few health issues that may require care. Pet parents may benefit from investing in pet insurance early in life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy Progressive retinal atrophy PRA is a group of diseases that cause a breakdown of the photoreceptor cells rods and cones on the retina. Initially, the dog may have difficulty seeing in the dark, but the condition can cause blindness over time. PRA is an inherited disease and there are currently no effective treatments available. Patellar Luxation The patella kneecap is a small bone that normally sits in a groove within the femur at the knee. In dogs with patellar luxation, the patella moves luxates outside of its assigned groove when the knee is flexed. This movement can cause discomfort and may eventually lead to arthritis. Many pets will skip or run on three legs when the patella is out of place. While some cases will correct themselves, in more severe cases the patella remains out of place. In mild cases, joint supplements such as fish oils and glucosamine or anti-inflammatory medications are used to control pain and prevent arthritis. In more severely affected dogs, surgery may be recommended. This causes pain and limping occur as the bone breaks down. In some cases, pain can be controlled with medications. In severe cases, surgery to remove the head of the femur may be recommended. Symptoms include visible debris, redness, odor, head shaking, and scratching. If any of these signs are noted, take your dog to the veterinarian for an exam. In most cases, ear infections can be resolved by cleaning the ear and with topical medications. Toy Poodles develop ear infections more often than most other breeds. This may be partly due to Poodles having long ear canals with excess curly hair to trap in moisture and debris. Trimming not plucking the hair from the ear may help reduce the incidence of ear infections. Dogs with chronic or recurring ear infections frequently have allergies that should be addressed. Dental Disease Dental disease is one of the most common conditions seen in dogs as they age, especially in small breeds like the Toy Poodle. Dental disease occurs when bacterial tartar and plaque build up, leading to inflammation of the tissues around the teeth—and eventually to tooth and bone decay. Daily tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste is the best way to prevent dental disease, though some diets, treats, and chew toys also help prevent plaque and tartar. Tracheal Collapse Tracheal collapse occurs when the trachea commonly called the windpipe flattens. This happens due to weak cartilage rings or the sagging of a membrane along the trachea. Most cases are treated using medications, but in severe cases where breathing is impeded, surgery may be necessary. Toy poodles are likely genetically predisposed to tracheal collapse. When on walks, use a harness instead of a collar, as pressure on the trachea can cause further damage. The condition causes a deficiency in a protein called the von Willebrand factor, which is necessary for platelets to stick together and form a clot. In dogs that are deficient in this protein, the blood may have difficulty clotting, which can lead to bleeding from the nose, vulva, bladder, or gums. Additionally, dogs with this condition may bleed for a long time after trauma or surgery. If there is concern about VWD, a screening test may be performed. This test measures how long it takes for a small cut in the mouth to stop bleeding. If the time is longer than usual, additional testing is needed to confirm VWD. Because some dogs with VWD do not have notably prolonged bleeding until later in adulthood, blood levels of von Willebrand factor can be measured to help with diagnosis. Most veterinarians recommend testing for VWD prior to any planned surgery, including spays, neuters, and dewclaw removals. Puppies should be fed a diet formulated specifically for puppies or designated for all life stages. For Toy Poodle adults, dental-focused diets may be recommended by your veterinarian to help prevent dental disease. Toy poodle puppies, however, should eat three to four small meals per day on a consistent schedule to help maintain their blood sugar. Additionally, the feeding guide labels on the dog food provides valuable information for pet parents. Just remember: In small breeds like the Toy Poodle, calories in treats add up quickly. Omega-3 fatty acids can be found in skin and joint supplements , fish oil, and even in some specially formulated dog foods. These fatty acids act as natural anti-inflammatories that help support the skin, coat, kidneys, joints, and heart. They are playful and self-confident when socialized at a young age. While relatively calm, Toy Poodles enjoy playtime and exercise with the family. The breed is gentle with children and other pets, though all interactions between dogs and kids should be supervised. Because these pups are so tiny, they can accidentally be hurt during playtime. Toy Poodles have lower exercise needs than many other dog breeds, but still benefit from a daily walk and play session. Toy Poodle Behavior Toy Poodles bond closely to their families and may develop separation anxiety if left alone for extended periods. They can also be sensitive to stress, and sudden changes in the home environment may lead to gastrointestinal upset. Additionally, because Poodles are so smart, they need mental stimulation to keep themselves entertained—and out of trouble. Bored dogs are more likely to bark, jump, be destructive, or misbehave. Toy Poodle Training Toy poodles want to please their owners. Paired with their smarts, this makes them an easy breed to train. As always, training is most successful when based on positive reinforcement with praise and tasty treats. Fun Activities for Toy Poodle Obedience training. How much do Toy Poodle puppies for sale cost? The cost for a Toy Poodle puppy for sale varies greatly and depends on many factors such as the breeders' location, reputation, litter size, lineage of the puppy, breed popularity supply and demand , training, socialization efforts, breed lines and much more. Before searching "Toy Poodle puppies for sale near me", review their average cost below. This is the price you can expect to budget for a Toy Poodle with papers but without breeding rights nor show quality. Expect to pay less for a Toy Poodle puppy for sale without papers, however, we do not recommend buying a puppy without papers. Looking for a Toy Poodle puppy with a superior lineage? Are you trying to determine how much a Toy Poodle with breeding rights and papers would cost? You should expect to pay a premium for a Toy Poodle puppy with breeding rights or even Toy Poodles for sale advertised as show quality with papers. What can I expect to pay for a Toy Poodle puppy near me? Annual cost of owning a Toy Poodle puppy for sale When googling "Toy Poodle puppy for sale near me" it is important to understand the associated costs of owning a dog. The annual cost or "upkeep" is often overlooked when determining a Toy Poodles true ownership cost. In this section, we will explore some of these factors, including breeder reputation and experience, pedigree and bloodlines, health testing and genetic screening, and location and demand. Breeder Reputation and Experience A reputable and experienced breeder will typically charge more for their toy poodles. This is because they invest time and resources into providing proper care and socialization for their dogs, ensuring they produce happy, healthy puppies. Toy Poodle sits calmly at the garden. Pedigree and Bloodlines Toy poodles from champion bloodlines or with strong pedigrees will typically cost more than those without. This is because a high-quality pedigree is an indicator of potential show or breeding success, and these dogs often have a higher demand. You can expect to pay a premium for puppies with distinguished bloodlines. Health Testing and Genetic Screening Breeders who perform extensive health testing and genetic screening on their breeding dogs will likely charge more for their puppies. This is because such testing helps to minimize the risk of passing on hereditary health issues, ensuring you bring home a healthy toy poodle. Location and Demand The cost of a toy poodle can also vary depending on your location and the overall demand for the breed in your area. In regions where toy poodles are particularly popular, you may find that prices are higher due to increased competition among buyers. Keep in mind that these factors can all impact the cost of a toy poodle, but the most important consideration should always be the health and well-being of the puppy. Be willing to invest in a quality toy poodle from a reputable breeder, as it will pay off in a happy, healthy companion. The owner carries her Toy Poodle. Price Ranges for Toy Poodles When looking to purchase a toy poodle, there are different price ranges depending on factors, such as quality, breeder reputation, and location. This section will discuss two specific categories of toy poodles: pet quality and show quality. Pet Quality Pet quality toy poodles are those which may not meet the breed standards or possess minor faults. However, they make lovely pets and companions. Show Quality Show quality toy poodles adhere to strict breed standards and are often bred for dog shows and competitions. However, this level of quality ensures a well-bred puppy with good lineage. When is a Toy Poodle full grown? Ongoing Expenses While the initial cost of purchasing a Toy Poodle is a significant expense, it is also important to consider the ongoing costs associated with owning one of these small and intelligent dogs. Food and Nutrition Feeding your Toy Poodle a well-balanced, high-quality diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. The cost of food will vary depending on the brand, ingredients, and size of the bag you buy. Before You Adopt Healthcare and Vaccinations Regular veterinary check-ups and vaccinations are necessary to keep your Toy Poodle healthy. Grooming costs can vary based on the services you choose to provide for your dog. A Poodle playing with a toy in the grass. Tips for Purchasing a Toy Poodle When considering the purchase of a toy poodle, there are several key factors you should take into account prior to making your decision. This section will discuss four essential considerations to guide you in your search for a healthy and happy pup. Research Reputable Breeders First and foremost, always select a reputable breeder for your toy poodle. Conduct thorough research by checking online reviews, asking for recommendations, and verifying awards and recognitions if applicable. Be cautious of red flags like: Irregularities in communication. If you want to get a show dog from champion bloodlines, expect to spend more. Purchasing the purebred Miniature or Toy type of Poodle is pricier than buying other dog breeds from a backyard dog breeder. The Standard Poodles are typically less expensive than Toy Poodles since they deliver more purebred puppies per litter. The price of a Standard Poodle, as well as Miniature and Toy Poodles, does not often change between male and female dogs, but larger dogs are associated with a higher maintenance cost compared to smaller Poodles. A premium price tag also usually means you have a high-quality Poodle puppy from purebred breeders which could save you a lot of money in the long run. Female Poodle: Which Is Better? Factors Affecting the Cost of a Poodle Puppy Many people find Poodles expensive, but what is it about Poodles that makes them so costly? Well, there are many reasons why these fluffy dogs cost thousands of dollars. The size, age, health, lineage, and AKC registration of a Poodle puppy are essential considerations when determining puppy prices. Here are other factors affecting the price of a purebred Poodle: Age: Younger purebred Poodle puppies are far more costly than older puppies on average. This is due to the high demand for young pups. Meanwhile, purchasing an adult Poodle could save you at the very least a few hundred dollars. Appearance: Purebred Poodles that sport rare Poodles coats color are priced higher than others. Purebred Poodle breeders dedicate years to learning how to breed high-quality puppies. Those that gained recognition for their hard work often put higher price tags on their Poodles than others. Bloodline: Since they are bred for exhibition, champion Poodles will be the priciest. These are the canines that compete in athletics and breed representation. Health Screenings: Purebred Poodles are at risk of health issues, such as seizures. This means Poodle breeders must take measures to ensure the health of their pups. As a result, they will have to invest additional money to nurture proper Poodle health. Registration Papers: Your Poodle must have the required registration papers to be registered with a kennel club. This list contains the significant factors that influence the price of a Poodle. When purchasing a Standard Poodle puppy, keep them in mind and any additional fees that may be associated with it. A purebred backyard breeder might ask you for things like reservation charges, pet delivery, vaccines, and pup accessories that are not included in the Standard Poodle price range. Poodle costs of adoption will vary depending on where you get your dog. If you choose a senior or special needs adult Standard Poodle, the fee is significantly reduced or even free entirely in these cases. Poodle puppies can be found in abundance in local shelters. If you decide to adopt a Poodle, you can be assured that you will get a dog that has been well-cared for, unlike the ones found in a puppy mill. Here is the list of the essential things that people who love Poodles must prepare for: Food and Treats: Poodles can be picky eaters. Hence, it is important to invest in the right kind of high-quality food upfront. Poodles will need a diet high in fats and proteins. Bed: Because the Poodles are active dogs, it will require a nice bed. The size of your Poodle will determine which mattress is appropriate. Crate: A crate is a must-have for required vet visits or crate-training your Poodle properly. This is a must-have item for Poodles that enjoy running and playing. Toys: Teething is unavoidable for young pups, and restlessness can lead to destructive behavior. These toys are a great approach to alleviating these concerns while keeping your dog happy. A slick brush to clear unkempt hair and knots, a metallic greyhound comb to remove tangles and separate hair strands, a blow dryer, grooming clippers, nail clippers, and a toothbrush to maintain proper oral hygiene are all you need. Furthermore, deworming is a crucial step in keeping healthy pups. Initial Vaccine Shots: If you opt to purchase an unvaccinated Poodle puppy, you will be responsible for the expense of their first round of vaccinations. This is also another way of keeping your Poodle healthy. Neutering and Spaying: If you purchase Standard Poodle puppies, most likely, it is still intact. It is suggested that the puppy be spayed or neutered between six and nine months. Microchip: A microchip, about the size of a rice grain, should be implanted on your Poodle. This can be scanned by vets or other canine specialists for your contact info, health records, and health problems. Miscellaneous Supplies: Useful goods such as poop scoopers, cleaning materials, and urine pads could make Poodle care much more manageable. Agility classes are another fantastic entertainment opportunity for your toy poodle. This breed is a miniature athlete, excelling in agility courses. However, the costs of caring for your pup may be more or less based on the area you live in and the things your dog needs in any given month. For example, you might not need to buy cleaning supplies or get your dog groomed every month, but the above estimates should give you a good idea of what you could be spending. Costs such as dog walking, obedience classes, pet sitters, and boarding facilities can add up fast. If you choose not to invest in pet insurance, you should create an emergency fund for unforeseeable incidences. You can cut down on some of the high costs by shopping for the best store to buy your food and supplies. You can even take grooming lessons or watch YouTube videos for tips on how to groom your toy poodle yourself to save on high grooming costs. Use couponing apps for your phone or internet browser to find the best deals on pet supplies. Honey is a great Chrome extension that finds all the best coupon codes for nearly any website. Rakuten is another extension you can use to earn cash back on your purchases. We consulted different breeders and pet adoption centers for the most accurate price range. During the interviews, we collected data on what affects the cost of each dog despite them being the same breed and the recurring costs of owning a toy poodle. By the end of the post, you will clearly see how much financial investment a toy poodle is. Like any other pet, the toy poodle requires a considerable financial commitment upfront and throughout their life. Several variables affect how much a toy poodle costs, which explains the huge price variation. A few factors that justify the price variation are: Color Some toy poodle colors are rarer than others. Some people may be looking for a toy poodle in a standout shade that is not easy to find. Since there is a small number of these special colored puppies, their price will increase. For example, Phantom will likely be pricier than others like black, silver, or brown, which are more frequently available. Whether You Are Adopting, Buying, or Rehoming Rehoming a pet is different from adopting one in that you either acquire a puppy that has been abandoned or are given one by someone unable to keep the dog for their reasons. On the other hand, you can receive a pet through adoption by going to a dog adoption facility. Although there may still be a fee to fund their time at the facility, it will usually be considerably cheaper than purchasing one. Additionally, your adoption price will probably include vaccinations, neutering, and microchipping costs, saving you a few more bucks. Buying puppies is usually expensive because the breeder has already incurred the cost of veterinary care and breeding the pups to ensure they come out perfectly. Lineage The bloodline of a toy poodle puppy is another significant factor that affects the pricing. Puppies are more priced if anyone in their line of descent has received any kind of recognition, say a competition. Costs differ between canines with a clean medical record and those with underlying or inherited health issues. Pets with any health issues will be cheaper than those in tip-top condition. Breeder If you buy from a reputable, high-end breeder, prices will generally be higher. This is because the breeder incurs significant costs related to maintaining their business, which is paid for by selling puppies. It is assumed that a high-end breeder will produce pups of a higher caliber than their cheaper counterparts. While this argument may have some truth, it is not always true. You can also get pups that are healthy from a start-up breeder. In addition to having less going on than an established breeder, new breeders must set fair prices to attract more clients. Extra Costs Of Owning A Toy Poodle The decision to get a new puppy is exhilarating, but frequently people fail to consider the financial obligations that come with it adequately. In fact, you may take this as your starting point. You might not realize how expensive it is to raise a puppy. Here are some extra costs to factor in your decision to get a toy poodle: Spaying or neutering Consider having your dog spayed or neutered if you intend to use it for breeding. Spaying a pet is more expensive than neutering it. Toys And Treats The well-being of your dog depends on toys. Negative behaviors can be delayed by using toys. Treats help reinforce good behavior in your furry buddy. Deworming Deworming is another factor that should not be overlooked when considering the additional costs of owning a pet. In fact, puppy age is the age range most susceptible to worm infection. To keep your dog healthy, ensure you deworm your puppy thrice a year. Vaccinations Immunizations are crucial because they will protect your puppy from illnesses and infections. Your veterinarian will determine the cost of the puppy immunizations. The first shot is administered between 6 and 8 weeks, while the second is a week or two later. Suppose you buy your toy poodle from a reputable breeder or rescue organization. In that case, the vaccinations will already be done before you pick up your new pet. Remember, you must give your dog a booster vaccination every year. Training Costs Depending on your demands, puppy training sessions might range in price. If you want an intensive training program that will teach your furry buddy all the essentials in a matter of days, that will be more expensive. Private lessons are also more expensive than group training. Services for dog walking and dog daycare are commonly available. Ensure you know what works for your pet because not every dog should go to doggie daycare, especially if they have trouble mingling with other dogs or lack social skills. However, there are occasions when it is vital to avoid boredom and give dogs that would otherwise spend long days alone the human-canine connection they require. All in all, do not leave your pup alone for long hours. Apart from avoiding a mess in your house, your dog needs to go outside and play. While making your decision, understand that dog walking is cheaper than daycare. Insurance Pet insurance will help you save money on your total veterinary expenses if your dog gets hurt or becomes ill. If you have pet insurance, you may relax knowing that you will be covered financially if your dog or cat is sick or wounded. Without pet insurance, you face the risk of being hit with a hefty bill in the unfortunate event of the worst-case scenario because veterinary visits have unexpected costs. Make sure the service provider you choose caters to the specific breed you have, covers any underlying issues your pet may have, and is within your budget. Where You Live The cost of a puppy also depends on where you reside; in California, for example, since it is among the most expensive states, the price for a toy poodle will be higher than in Massachusetts due to the drastically lower cost of living there. You may opt to get your pup from a cheaper state; however, you also need to account for the price of getting the toy poodle puppy there and back to your residence. In the excitement of getting ready to bring a new puppy into your home, it can be easy to overlook how much of a financial commitment the dog involves. Making a budget for your new animal family member is a great way to prepare yourself for unforeseen costs. Less - The Toy Poodles have a shoulder height of up to 25 cm 10 in and weigh kg lbs. Poodles are very elegant in appearance. They have a long, narrow muzzle, slight stop point at which the forehead meets the muzzle , dark eyes, and wide ears. Toy Poodles have flat backs, straight, docked tails and small, oval feet. Their length is approximately the same as their height. The Toy Poodle is sensitive, intelligent, lively, playful, proud, and elegant. It bonds closely with family and makes a great companion. Toy Poodles are very smart, obedient, and graceful, which makes them one of the most popular pets in the world. The Toy Poodle is bouncy, alert, and usually eager to play. Toy Poodles are more energetic than Standard Poodles, and more likely to bark. In 18th and 19th century Europe, the Poodle served a wide variety of purposes, including duck hunting, guiding, and later circus performing, from whence the modern grooming style likely arose. The Poodle became a popular pet for the French aristocracy, and in time was officially adopted as the national dog. Poodles were imported to America in the 20th century. The origins of the poodles are still discussed with a dispute over whether the poodle descends from the old French Barbet breed or from Germany as a type of water dog. Giving your dog time and attention, making sure they have plenty of toys and opportunities to run around and play outside, and working on training regularly are all things that you can do to keep your dog entertained each day. It is a good idea to plan ahead and consider starting a savings account, where you can put away a portion of your paycheck so you can pay for unexpected vet costs. Your dog might end up damaging something in your household as they learn obedience training, so you may incur extra costs unexpectedly for this reason. These are just more reasons to consider maintaining a savings account for your dog. Owning a Toy Poodle on a Budget If you can find a Toy Poodle for free or at a rescue center, utilize state-funded service programs like those for spaying and neutering , and if you opt for less expensive commercial food, you can take care of a Toy Poodle on a budget. However, costs should never be cut when it comes to checkups, vaccinations, illness treatment, and items for nutrition and comfort. Learn how to potty and obedience train your dog yourself instead of hiring a professional trainer. You can find training books at the library and training videos online for guidance. Instead of utilizing a grooming service, buy clippers and a good brush, and do the grooming yourself. Instead of buying expensive toys, make them out of old clothes and unbreakable objects that you find around the house. Go on long walks rather than gas-guzzling drives. Spend time at the dog park instead of using electricity at home watching television. Make your own doggy treats utilizing food in your kitchen instead of buying commercial ones. Daily exercise, a proper diet, and plenty of attention will go a long way. Regular checkups can help catch problems before they become too expensive to address. Conclusion Toy Poodles are adorable little dogs that deserve plenty of love and attention throughout their lives. Featured Image Credit: NDAB Creativity, Shutterstock Written by Rachael Gerkensmeyer Author Rachael has been a freelance writer since , in which time she has had an opportunity to research and write about many different topics while working to master the art of fusing high-quality content with effective content marketing strategies. She is an artist at heart and loves to read, paint, and make jewelry in her spare time. As a vegan, Rachael is obsessed with helping animals in need both in her community and anywhere in the world where she feels she can make a difference. Animals also happen to be her favorite topic to write about! She lives off the grid in Hawaii with her husband, her garden, and her rescue animals including 5 dogs, a cat, a goat, and dozens of chickens.Read more Advertisement.
french bulldog puppies in pennsylvania - Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide.
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french bulldog puppies in pennsylvania - To prepare for your 8 wk old puppy we recommend the purchase of - An extra large metal crate, with lifetime benefit. A Cambridge Kuranda Series dog bed From therian. An order required for this non-stock item. Two D feeder troughs by IPetz. During this time your puppy should be safely exposed to other dogs vacced , random people, roads, traffic and machinery, without trauma. Care must be taken to restrict a puppies activity until the growth plates and joint structures are adequately formed at approx mths of age. The first indication that a girl is on heat is the observable blood spotting. And the timing of her heat can be delayed by as much as 8wks. Weather, health and general life dynamics will all influence the timing of the her next heat. Receipt of your Pawling labrador pup is 18wks away. Mother Nature has the final word. We weigh the puppies daily, every morning until release at 8 weeks of age. The litter is wormed fortnightly from 2 weeks of age. And from 4 weeks of age, the puppies have access to a controlled outdoor area to explore, smell and experience life. In conjunction with this, we begin temperament testing the puppies. These activities are part of the process of building confidence. We encourage problem solving. We are looking for experienced pawrents who understand the impawtance of exercise, nutrition, routine, mental stimulation as well as affection. You will also need to patiently introduce your older dog to his or her new surroundings whether it be rural, urban, the beach, a houseboat etc. If you are free to hang at home, enjoy a daily walk, can throw a ball and have access to a large body of water, you might be the perfect pawrent for a Pawling Labrador! In certain circumstances, we also enter into fostering arrangements with prospective owners. Please call us for more information and to register your interest. We own a house at the beach with a 2 metre high fence. Jemima is having coffee at Noosa, we recommend a gentle leader. Graduation day. Our dogs attend Puppy Pre School and attain level 4 Dog Obebience Training Samson's is our chocolate labrador sire and his great delight is to fetch, Samson loves to fetch. We make sure both parents are hip and elbow scored and test the parents for genetic diseases to ensure all the puppies are unaffected from these known genetic diseases. All our dogs live with us in the house and are part of our family. They love to help us raising the puppies. For a full list of genetic diseases and traits please check out the Orivet Full Breed Profile for Labrador Retrievers. What temperament are you looking for and why? What is your activity level and experience with dogs? Do you think you are able to match your lifestyle? Are you aware of the costs involved in veterinary care, buying quality dog food, boarding the dog when away? Where will the dog sleep? Is there accessible shade at all times outside during the day? Is somebody staying at home for the first few weeks to settle puppy in? How many hours will the adult dog be alone? Preferred sex and colour? Your full address and phone number? Guardianship We are looking for guardians for a female puppy. If you are interested please send me an email to info gclabradors. Please find some more information about our guardianship program. We ensure all our breeding females and males have a high quality of life. They live in our house and are part of our family. Because we could not rehome our dogs after their breeding career we have setup a guardian program. Our guardian females and males life with their forever families. We aim to breed quality Labradors, with beautiful temperaments and personalities. Our girls have been hip and elbow.We are a family based breeder and our girls are part of our family and go everywhere with us. Pups are.We make sure both parents are hip and elbow scored and test the parents for genetic diseases to ensure all the puppies are.I hold a Championship judge's licence in Retrieveing Trials and.We have been breeding and exhibiting show dogs with a focus on true and beautiful looks while also maintaining versatility as a retrieving dog, Our dogs are part of the family and puppies are house reared. All pups are vet checked, vaccinated and micro chipped.We no longer compete in obedience as most of our time we are out.Our Labradors and puppies are raised in a loving family environment with children.We select breeding lines.We breed for temperament and soundness and aim for quality not quantity in puppies that are true to breed. Our puppies are.We are a small family based, Registered breeder. Our aim is to keep within every aspect that makes a Labrador so special, from their loving nature.Canine Elliptocytosis Genetic Test Canine Elliptocytosis is a rare genetic disease causing the red blood cells to be abnormally elliptical in shape, rather than round. It generally does not cause a clinical problem to affected dogs, but puppies may be mildly anaemic and smaller than others. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It is a blood disease resulting in low numbers of very large platelets. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Cystinuria Genetic Test This condition mainly affects Newfoundlands although other breeds can be affected. It is a genetic condition which results in the production of kidney and bladder stones. There is a DNA test available to confirm that breeding dogs are not carrying this condition. Degenerative Myelopathy DM Genetic Test This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It causes very dry and crusty skin around the nose that predisposes to infections. There is a DNA test available to determine whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. HUU Genetic Test Hyperuricosuria HUU is a genetic disease that causes a build-up of uric acid in the urine, predisposing to painful bladder and kidney stones. It can occur in a range of breeds. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It causes cloudy eyes and potential vision impairment. Affected puppies are small and lack coordination. Within weeks, the puppies may have difficulty holding their head up or standing and may collapse after exertion. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog might be carrying this condition. Narcolepsy Genetic Test Narcolepsy is a genetic disease which causes affected animals to fall asleep suddenly following periods of excitement, such a feeding or play. These dogs might collapse and appear drowsy or might completely fall asleep. They usually grow out of the condition after about one year of age. Affected dogs can experience lethargy, exercise intolerance and severe anaemia. There is a DNA available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Skeletal Dysplasia Genetic Test Skeletal Dysplasia is an inherited form of dwarfism which causes the leg bones to grow much shorter than is proportional for the body. Affected legs will be short and slightly bowed outwards. Often the forelimbs are more affected than the hindlimbs, which can make the condition more difficult to spot in subtle cases. Why we got involved in breeding Having worked in pet shops from a young age, I visited a few puppy farms in my time which left me completely horrified and wanting to change the way that dogs are brought into the world. My love of dogs took me into the pedigree world, where I met some great mentors who inspired me to continue the great work and… Read more Our special touch We are a small scale family breeder who takes pride in getting to know all our prospective new owners well. Connect with us.