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Varies in texture and length, can be straight, wavy, or curly Color Golden or shades of gold, ranging from light cream to dark golden Eyes Usually medium-sized and expressive, can be brown or hazel Ears Medium to long in length, hanging close to the head Tail Long and set at or near the level of the back It is important to note that individual Golden Labradoodles may deviate from these averages, as they are a mix of two different breeds, the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. The size and appearance can also be influenced by the specific size of the Poodle parent used in breeding, whether it's a Standard, Miniature, or Toy Poodle. When considering the appearance and size of a Golden Labradoodle, it is essential to choose a reputable breeder who can provide information about the specific traits and characteristics of the puppies. Factors such as exercise, diet, and grooming can also play a role in maintaining the optimal appearance and size of your Golden Labradoodle. Coat and Grooming The coat of a Golden Labradoodle typically exhibits a wavy or curly texture and is soft and dense. Maintaining their coat's health requires regular grooming practices. This includes consistent brushing to prevent matting and to ensure the coat remains neat and tidy. Golden Labradoodles boast a double coat, featuring a water-resistant outer layer and a soft undercoat. Regular baths are essential to keep the coat clean and free from dirt and debris, with the coat's length varying from short to medium to long among individual dogs. To maintain their appearance, professional grooming is recommended every weeks, including trimming around the face, paws, and tail. Golden Labradoodles are known for shedding minimally or not at all, making them a suitable choice for individuals with allergies. Additionally, regular nail trimming is crucial to prevent discomfort caused by overly long nails. Routine brushing also helps distribute the coat's natural oils, promoting a healthy and glossy appearance. Ensuring ear cleanliness through regular cleaning and checking for signs of infection is essential for their overall health. Good dental hygiene is vital as well; brushing the dog's teeth regularly prevents tartar buildup and gum disease. While professional grooming can be costly, adopting a consistent maintenance routine at home can help control grooming expenses. Keep in mind that grooming requirements may vary based on the specific crossbreeding of the Golden Retriever and Poodle. Furthermore, grooming sessions serve as an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog and reinforce positive behaviors. Temperament and Personality When it comes to the temperament and personality of a Golden Labradoodle, there are several traits that are commonly seen in this breed: Friendly: Golden Labradoodles are known for their friendly nature. They are typically outgoing and welcoming towards both strangers and other animals. Social: These dogs thrive on companionship and love being part of a family. They enjoy being around people and are usually good with children, making them a great choice for families. Intelligent: Golden Labradoodles have a temperament and personality that includes high intelligence. They are quick learners and are often eager to please their owners. This makes them relatively easy to train. Playful: These dogs have a playful and fun-loving nature. They enjoy engaging in various activities such as fetch or playing with toys. Their playful nature also makes them good companions for active individuals or families. Loyal: Golden Labradoodles are known for their loyalty. Once they form a bond with their owner, they are committed and devoted. They make excellent companions for those looking for a faithful and devoted pet. Trainability When it comes to the trainability of a Golden Labradoodle, there are some key factors to consider: Intelligence: Golden Labradoodles exhibit a remarkable level of trainability due to their inherent intelligence. They possess a quick learning ability and readily comprehend and execute commands. Positive Reinforcement: The most effective approach for training a Golden Labradoodle involves utilizing positive reinforcement techniques. Employing reward-based training methods such as treats, praise, and playtime yields highly favorable outcomes. Consistency: Consistency plays a pivotal role in the training process of Golden Labradoodles. These intelligent canines thrive on routine and exhibit superior responses when commands and expectations remain consistent. Socialization: The early socialization of Golden Labradoodles holds immense importance regarding their overall trainability. Introducing them to diverse individuals, animals, and environments aids in fostering confidence and adaptability in these dogs. Early Training: Initiating training at an early stage of a Golden Labradoodle's life is highly recommended. Due to their eager-to-please nature, they can commence learning basic commands and obedience training from a tender age. To enhance the trainability of your Golden Labradoodle, the following suggestions should be taken into consideration: Enroll in obedience classes: Professional training classes provide structure and guidance for both you and your dog. They offer an excellent opportunity to acquire effective training techniques and ensure that your Golden Labradoodle attains proper socialization. Exercise patience and maintain consistency: Training requires time and effort. It is crucial to remain consistent with your commands, rewards, and expectations. Patience is the key, as each dog learns at their own pace. Establish a positive and calm environment: Dogs respond most favorably to positive reinforcement and a serene training environment. Avoid punishments or negative reinforcement techniques, as these can impede progress and have adverse effects on their well-being. By considering these factors and implementing the aforementioned suggestions, you can cultivate the trainability of your Golden Labradoodle, thereby positioning them for success in their training journey. History and Origin of Golden Labradoodle The history and origin of the golden Labradoodle can be traced back to the s in Australia. The breed's history and origin are unique and not standardized, unlike purebred dogs. Each Labradoodle can have variations in appearance, temperament, and coat type, depending on the traits passed down from their parent breeds. This variability is what makes Labradoodles unique and endearing to many dog lovers. The golden Labradoodle is a hybrid breed obtained by crossing a Golden Retriever with a Poodle. Its history and origin lie in the purpose of developing a hypoallergenic guide dog for visually impaired individuals who also had allergies to dog hair and dander. This aim led to the combination of the intelligence, trainability, and friendliness of the Golden Retriever with the low-shedding coat of the Poodle. The result was a dog that not only had a hypoallergenic coat but also possessed the desirable qualities of both parent breeds. Due to its friendly and affectionate nature, intelligence, and adaptability to various lifestyles, the Labradoodle quickly gained popularity. It became a sought-after family pet, therapy dog, and service dog. Its popularity also extended internationally, and today, golden Labradoodles can be found in many countries around the world. An interesting fact about the golden Labradoodle is that the term "Labradoodle" was actually coined by Wally Conron, one of the breed's initial developers. The name was created by combining the names of the two parent breeds, Labrador Retriever and Poodle, resulting in the catchy and distinctive name we know today. Caring for a Golden Labradoodle If you've got a lively, bouncing golden labradoodle in your life, it's essential to understand how to properly care for them. Exercise Needs When it comes to the exercise needs of a Golden Labradoodle, it's important to provide them with regular physical activity to meet their exercise needs and keep them happy and healthy. Daily Walks: Taking your Golden Labradoodle for daily walks is essential for meeting their exercise needs. Aim for at least 30 minutes to an hour of walking each day. Playtime: Engage in regular play sessions with your Golden Labradoodle to meet their mental and physical exercise needs. This can include playing fetch, tug of war, or interactive puzzle toys. Outdoor Activities: Golden Labradoodles love outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, and running in an enclosed area. These activities provide them with an opportunity to burn off excess energy and meet their exercise needs. Training Exercises: Incorporate training exercises into your Golden Labradoodle's exercise routine. This not only helps them stay physically fit but also enhances their mental agility and fulfills their exercise needs. Dietary Requirements Golden Labradoodles Protein Golden Labradoodles require a diet that is rich in protein to support their active lifestyle and maintain healthy muscles. The diet should include high-quality sources of protein such as lean meats, fish, and eggs. Fat A moderate amount of healthy fats is essential for Golden Labradoodles. It provides them with energy and supports healthy skin and coat. Include sources of healthy fats like fish oil and flaxseed oil in their diet. Carbohydrates Carbohydrates are an important source of energy for Golden Labradoodles. Opt for complex carbohydrates like whole grains and vegetables, which provide a steady release of energy and are rich in fiber. Vitamins and Minerals Golden Labradoodles need a balanced mix of vitamins and minerals to support their overall health. Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in their diet to ensure they receive an adequate amount of essential nutrients. Water Water is crucial for Golden Labradoodles to stay hydrated and maintain proper bodily functions. Ensure fresh and clean water is always available for them to drink. Dietary Restrictions Some Golden Labradoodles may have specific dietary restrictions or sensitivities. It's important to consult with a veterinarian to determine if any special dietary considerations are necessary, such as avoiding certain ingredients or following a specific diet plan. Health Considerations When it comes to the health considerations of owning a Golden Labradoodle, there are a few important factors to keep in mind. Regular veterinary check-ups are essential to ensure the overall well-being of your furry friend. It is recommended to schedule annual examinations, vaccinations, and screenings for common health issues such as hip dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy PRA , and allergies. To address the health considerations, it is crucial to maintain a balanced diet and proper nutrition for your Golden Labradoodle. Consult with your veterinarian to determine the appropriate portion sizes and types of food that best meet their dietary requirements. In addition, regular exercise plays a vital role in keeping your Golden Labradoodle physically fit and mentally stimulated. Daily walks or playtime are necessary to prevent obesity and ensure their overall well-being. Grooming is another important aspect of their health. Regular brushing of their curly coat is essential to prevent matting and maintain their skin and coat in good condition. Don't forget to schedule regular bathing and grooming sessions to maintain their hygiene. It is important to be mindful of any changes in behavior or appearance and seek veterinary advice if any health concerns arise. Early detection and timely intervention can greatly contribute to the long-term health and happiness of your Golden Labradoodle. By incorporating these health considerations, you can help ensure that your Golden Labradoodle leads a healthy and fulfilling life. Training and Socialization for a Golden Labradoodle Ready to unleash the charm of your golden labradoodle? In this section, we'll dive into the key aspects of training and socialization. Discover the power of basic commands and obedience training, unlocking your dog's potential for good behavior. Basic Commands and Obedience Training Basic commands and obedience training are essential for a well-behaved and disciplined Golden Labradoodle. Here are some key aspects to consider: Start early: Begin training your Golden Labradoodle puppy as soon as you bring them home. Puppies have a natural curiosity and eagerness to learn, making it easier to teach them basic commands. Positive reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques, such as treats, praise, and affection, to reward your dog when they obey commands correctly. This positive association encourages them to repeat the desired behavior. Consistency: Be consistent with your training methods and commands. Use the same verbal cues and hand signals each time to avoid confusion. Consistency helps your dog understand what is expected of them and speeds up the learning process. Focus on essential commands: Teach your Golden Labradoodle basic commands like sit, stay, come, lie down, and leave it. These commands provide the foundation for obedience and ensure your dog's safety and control in various situations. Short and frequent training sessions: Keep training sessions short, around minutes, to maintain your dog's attention and prevent boredom. Regular, frequent training sessions throughout the day will yield better results than longer, infrequent sessions. Gradual progression: Once your dog has mastered the basic commands, you can gradually move on to more advanced obedience training, including leash walking, heel, and off-leash training. Build on their previous knowledge to expand their skills. Persistence and patience: Training takes time and patience. Dogs have different learning abilities, so be patient and understanding if your Golden Labradoodle takes longer to grasp certain commands. Stay consistent with training and celebrate their progress. Professional help if needed: If you're unsure about training techniques or facing challenges, consider seeking help from a professional dog trainer. They can provide guidance and tailor the training to suit your dog's specific needs. Remember, basic commands and obedience training are essential for a harmonious and well-behaved relationship with your Golden Labradoodle. With consistent training and positive reinforcement, your furry friend will become a well-mannered and obedient companion. Socializing with People and Other Animals When it comes to socializing with people and other animals, Golden Labradoodles thrive on interactions and companionship. Here are some important aspects to consider: Early socialization: It is crucial to start socializing your Golden Labradoodle from a young age. Expose them to various environments, people of different ages and backgrounds, as well as other animals. This helps them develop confidence, adaptability, and good behavior. Positive reinforcement: Use positive reinforcement techniques to reward your Golden Labradoodle for good behavior during social interactions. This can include treats, praise, or playtime. Avoid punishment or negative reinforcement, as it can hinder their socialization progress. Leash training: Ensure your Golden Labradoodle is comfortable and well-behaved on a leash. This will make it easier for them to interact with other dogs and people while on walks or in public spaces. Introduce gradually: When introducing your Golden Labradoodle to new people or animals, do it gradually and in a controlled environment. Start with calm and friendly individuals before progressing to more challenging or stimulating situations. Supervision: Always supervise your Golden Labradoodle's interactions with people and animals, especially in the beginning stages of socialization. This ensures their safety and allows you to intervene if any issues arise. Consistency: Be consistent in your socialization efforts. Regularly expose your Golden Labradoodle to different social situations, and reinforce positive behavior and manners consistently. Remember, every dog is unique, so individual temperaments and preferences may vary. Also, seek guidance from a professional dog trainer or behaviorist if you encounter any challenges during the socialization process. Pros and Cons of Owning a Golden Labradoodle Considering the pros and cons of owning a golden Labradoodle, it's essential to weigh the advantages and disadvantages. On one hand, you'll discover the perks of having a loving and sociable furry companion by your side. On the other hand, there are certain drawbacks that come with this unique breed. So, let's delve into the details and uncover what makes owning a golden Labradoodle such a mixed bag of blessings and challenges. Advantages Advantages of owning a Golden Labradoodle include their low-shedding coat. This is great for individuals who are allergic to pet dander or for those who prefer a cleaner living environment. You won't have to worry about constantly cleaning up fur around the house. Intelligent and trainable: Golden Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and trainability. They are quick learners and enjoy pleasing their owners, making them ideal for obedience training and learning various commands. Whether you want them to perform tricks or just follow basic obedience, they will quickly pick up on what you're teaching them. Gentle and friendly temperament: With their Golden Retriever and Poodle heritage, Golden Labradoodles are known for their gentle and friendly temperament. They are typically good-natured and get along well with people of all ages, including children. Their friendly nature makes them excellent family pets. Versatile companion: Golden Labradoodles make excellent companions for individuals or families. They are adaptable to different living situations, whether you live in an apartment or a house with a large yard. They are also great for outdoor adventures like hiking or going to the beach. Therapy and service dog potential: Due to their intelligence, temperament, and trainability, Golden Labradoodles have the potential to be excellent therapy or service dogs. They can provide emotional support and assistance to individuals with disabilities or special needs. Disadvantages When considering owning a Golden Labradoodle, it's important to be aware of the potential disadvantages that come with this breed: High Energy Levels: Golden Labradoodles are known for their high energy levels and need for regular exercise. Without enough physical and mental stimulation, they can become bored and may exhibit destructive behaviors. Grooming Requirements: The coat of a Golden Labradoodle is dense and curly, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting. This can be time-consuming and may require professional grooming services. Health Concerns: Like all dog breeds, Golden Labradoodles are susceptible to certain health issues. Some common health concerns in this breed include hip dysplasia, allergies, and eye problems. Regular veterinary care and health screenings are essential to ensure their well-being. Separation Anxiety: Golden Labradoodles are sociable and affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. They can experience separation anxiety when left alone for long periods, which may lead to destructive behaviors or excessive barking. Finding and Choosing a Golden Labradoodle When it comes to finding and choosing a golden Labradoodle, there are a few key factors to consider. In this section, we'll explore how to find a reputable breeder, the importance of health testing and certifications, and the crucial steps in selecting the right puppy. Finding a Reputable Breeder When finding a reputable breeder for a Golden Labradoodle, it is important to consider several factors to ensure you are making the right choice: Reputation: Do your research and look for breeders with a good reputation. Read reviews, talk to other dog owners, and join online communities to gather information about reputable breeders. Breeding practices: A reputable breeder will follow ethical breeding practices. They will prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs and will conduct health tests to ensure the puppies are healthy and free from genetic diseases. Transparency: A reputable breeder will be open and transparent about their breeding program. They will provide you with all the necessary information about the parents of the puppies, including their health records, pedigree, and temperament. Interaction with the puppies: A reputable breeder will allow you to meet the puppies and their parents. They will encourage you to spend time with them to assess their temperament and confirm that they are well-socialized. Contract and health guarantee: A reputable breeder will provide you with a written contract that outlines the responsibilities of both parties. They will also offer a health guarantee for the puppies, ensuring that they are free from any genetic or hereditary defects. By considering these factors, you can find a reputable breeder who will provide you with a healthy and well-socialized Golden Labradoodle. Health Testing and Certifications By conducting health tests and obtaining certifications, breeders can identify potential genetic health issues and prevent them from being passed on to future generations. This helps in maintaining the health and longevity of the breed. Health testing and certifications indicate that the breeder is committed to producing healthy and genetically sound puppies. They give assurance to potential owners that the puppy they are considering is less likely to develop hereditary health issues. One example of a crucial health test for Golden Labradoodles is the hip and elbow dysplasia evaluation. This test determines the structural soundness of the dog's hips and elbows, reducing the risk of joint problems. Selecting the Right Puppy When it comes to selecting the right puppy for your family, there are a few important factors to consider: Breeder reputation: It is crucial to find a reputable breeder who follows ethical practices and cares for the well-being of their dogs. Take the time to research breeders, read reviews, and ask for recommendations from trusted sources. Health testing and certifications: Ensure that the breeder conducts necessary health tests on their adult dogs to identify any potential genetic health issues. Ask for certifications or documentation to verify the health of the puppy and its parents. Temperament assessment: Request information about the temperament of the puppy and its parents. A responsible breeder will provide insights into the puppy's behavioral tendencies and match you with a suitable companion based on your lifestyle and preferences. Observation and interaction: Spend time observing and interacting with the litter of puppies. Observe their behavior, social interactions, and how they respond to stimuli. This will give you an idea of their personalities and help you select a puppy that aligns with your expectations. Physical health: Examine the overall health of the puppies. Look for signs of alertness, cleanliness, and proper growth. Ensure that the puppy has received appropriate vaccinations and has been dewormed. Remember, selecting the right puppy is a decision that requires careful consideration. Take the time to thoroughly evaluate the breeder, assess the puppy's health and temperament, and trust your instincts. By doing so, you can increase the likelihood of finding a happy and healthy Golden Labradoodle that will be a perfect fit for your family. The Golden Labradoodle is a popular pedigree dog breed due to its gorgeous appearance, intelligence, trainability, and gentle nature. It is known for being sweet, loyal, and excellent with families and children. What are the characteristics of a Labradoodle's coat? The Labradoodle's coat can be wavy or curly, and it is soft, silky, and low shedding. This makes it a great choice for individuals who prefer a dog with minimal shedding. How small can a Golden Labradoodle get? If you prefer a smaller companion dog, a Mini Golden Labradoodle may be more suitable. Mini Golden Labradoodles are created by using a Miniature Poodle in the mix and typically weigh less than 40 pounds. What are some favorite activities for Golden Labradoodles? Golden Labradoodles enjoy various activities such as agility competitions, playing with digging toys, and even participating in fun Tik Tok videos. They have natural dirt scraping behaviors and retrieving instincts, making them highly versatile and entertaining companions. What are the recommended dog toys for a Golden Labradoodle? For a Golden Labradoodle with a gentle nature, self-fetch dog toys and aesthetic dog beds are great options. Self-fetch toys allow dogs to play without the owner needing to do much, and aesthetic dog beds provide a comfortable and cozy den-like space for them to relax. The link has been copied! The famous Golden Labradoodle, which is one of the finest breeds of dogs, was created in Australia as a hypoallergenic pattern dog. The very first hybridization between a Labrador Retriever and a regular Poodle was done by a famous Australian breeder, Wally Conron, in .This man is also considered as accountable for the breeding plan at the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia. Sultan, himself was a magnificent and intelligent creature and had a hypoallergenic sheet along with the abilities, intellect, and character to be a capable model dog. In Hawaii, Sultan got a lot of progress in his job by working along with a woman. After seeing such results, this ignited a new spark in the breeders, and many of them started discerning this astonishing dog and determined to start incorporating these two varieties. The popularity of Labradoodles swiftly expanded because of the Labrador Retrievers, and it has finished up as the most solicited after Doodle dogs. The Golden Labradoodle, which is a mixture of two different species, is generally created by crossing a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle. After that, multi-gen breeding got much adhesion to create an enduring and noticeable specie. To modify this fantastic creation to be identified as a thoroughbred race in the coming few years, both the Australian Labradoodle Association and The Australian Labradoodle Association of America are trying their best and taking all possible actions in this course. There has been an ongoing massive effort by these groups to let breeders come closer mutually and assist them in accomplishing a basic standard of Labradoodles with multi-gen breeding. Poodle Although the Poodle is recognized as a national symbol in France and it has been awarded the honor of national dog and the French are very much passionate about this dog, but, it does not mean that the poodle was originated in France. It is considered as one of the most pristine discovered breeds which, in the initial years, were formerly utilized for bird shooting in Germany. Because of this reason, the Poodle had this amazing and outstanding trait of running over the water, particularly. It is the place where it can run swiftly and with no trouble, and it also determines the bird hit by the hunter. The word poodle is an English that has been derived from the German term pudel or pudelin, which means to splatter in the water. It took a lot of time for this race to developed into its particular race in France. But, even in those days, there was this trend where Poodle-owners would tonsure the legs, collars, and tailpieces of their dogs in Germany just like we can see it nowadays. There is a practical reason behind: They would shave those parts that would reduce the weight of the dogs. They would leave the thick cover that would shield the dog throughout its limbs and organs towards the cool water. It was not until the recent 14th ages that breeders began to produce shorter versions of the Poodle. Even in the 14th century, the large poodles were still in use by the French, which is also recognized as the primary and approved Poodle for bird shooting. The ordinary Poodle takes jobs like exploring for truffles in the forests, and the smaller species of the Poodle was considered as a sign or element of decoration and was normally utilized as more of an embellishing dog by the wealthy people at that time. Labrador Retriever The Labrador Retriever was created on the island of Newfoundland outside the northeastern shore of Canada. Incipiently named St. Except for the fact that their legacy is anonymous, many people still consider that the St. John dogs fraternized with the Newfoundland race and other local wandering town dogs. The breed was facing the fear of being wiped out and facing the threat of extinction at one time. But it is believed that the Malmesbury class and some other English dog lovers and followers who were fond of this breed, they started preserving the remaining living dogs of this specie. That is why they are attributed with the credit of having kept the race in the s. The race gradually started to disperse from Newfoundland because of the restrictions and regulations established by the state and several tax authorities. Families were just permitted to have one dog at a time, and keeping a female dog would mean that the owner will have to pay a huge amount of tax. Hence, the female pups were mostly faced with killing or disposal at the time of birth. Nowadays, Labrador Retrievers are frequently operating in many different areas such as medicines and drugs, bomb detection, rescue and search operations, providing therapies to the injured dogs, and also working as hunter dogs. Not only this, but these intelligent dogs are also performing exceedingly well in other fields such as different competitions of dogs, fieldwork, exhibiting intelligence, and adapting accordingly, showing affection and obedience towards the trainer and owners. How Big do Golden Labradoodles Get The standard size of a Golden Labradoodle can vary quite a lot, seeing as Labradors Retrievers are bred with a Poodle that can have of all sorts of shapes and sizes. A miniature Golden Labradoodle is normally around 12 to 16 inches. And their weight is around 15 to 25 pounds. A medium Golden Labradoodle is typically around 16 to 20 inches, weighing in at 30 to 45 pounds. And a standard Golden Labradoodle usually is 20 to 24 inches with a weight of 55 to 65 pounds. Traits of Golden Labradoodles Since a Golden Labradoodle is a crossbred dog, there is only one fact about which you can be sure about, and that is its color. You can only be sure about its color that it will be golden. Otherwise, you cannot predict any other traits that a dog will possess. Everything from size, weight type of coat, and so on, will be impossible to predict. And even though Labradors and Poodles are somewhat similar when it comes to their temperamental trains, they are fairly different types of dogs otherwise. The Poodle is basically a hypoallergenic type of dog along with a coat that hardly sheds even the slightest bit. While, on the other hand, a Labrador is recognized for possessing a dense, and silky coat that has this tendency of shedding. Both races are categorized into three distinct colors. The Poodle can be found in various colors like apricot, black and rust-colored, and the Labrador is either Golden, chocolate, or yellowish in color. Poodle and Labrador, both are considered water dogs with strong and powerful structural built. As a likely expected master of Golden Labradoodle, one can assume this crossbreed to have a similar type of strongly built body, which also includes floppy ears, a tall tailpiece, and a pleasant and charming expression. Golden Labradoodles With Kids and Other Pets Golden Labradoodles are frequently wonderful with children because they are considered as friendly and caring partners. Although they are much more active dogs, they might beat over tinny little toddlers by collision, but this race will cherish your children wholeheartedly. As with each other dog race, you should also educate children on how to act nearby a dog, and you should perpetually have a keen eye on any cooperation between a dog and children to be assured that neither your dog nor children do anything that would agitate or beat the equivalent. You should clearly instruct your children nearby your dog that the dog must not be disturbed or irritated when it is feeding or resting, and also, they should not try to snatch the food of dogs. Most importantly, It does not matter how kind and loving your dog is; it should never be left with a child alone. This race is very friendly and is particularly great around other dogs in a house. But this woolly friend needs some coaching and socialization, like every other dog, to get the whole experience of being with other pets. Care and Grooming of the Golden Labradoodle The desire for supervision and grooming can diversify quite a little because it usually depends on the length and kind of cover in your dog. In general terms, you should develop a habit of brushing your Golden Labradoodle a few times per week, and trim or shave it at least once a month to keep the coat soft enough to manage easily. They should only be washed when it is necessary because a bad smell or odor is not really associated with these dogs generally. Dogs have this tendency to develop ear infections, and the Golden Labradoodle is also highly vulnerable to ear contaminations, so be sure that you pay immediate attention to take care of their ears. You must regularly wipe and brush them after you have finished bathing with them. You must inspect them for at least once in a week for any dust or heavy smell which will show contamination. You must wipe them with cotton paper once in a week while utilizing a moderate sort of ear detergent just to get rid of any possible threats of contamination. Brush the teeth of your dogs about times a week to kill bacteria. Regular brushing is much more useful if you want to be assured to bypass any critical breath. Cut the nails of your dogs once or twice in a period as your dogs cannot trim them directly by themselves. When you hear the sound of clicking made by the dog while walking on the floor, it means that its nails are growing too much and need to be trimmed immediately. It is a fact that there are blood vessels inside the nails of your dogs. So, if you cut them too much down, you may provoke bleeding, and hence your dog will presumably be not reliable for assistance the next time when you trim its nails. So, if you are not satisfied by cutting the nails of your Golden dog, you must see a vet and have him take the responsibility. You should begin teaching your dog to be cleaned and inspected when it is quite just a puppy. This is the reason that you must be assured that common concern will be an emphatic experience for the dog full of cheering and comments. It will be a lot simpler for you, but also for the conditions where the dog has to attend the vet or any other study when it is growing more timeless. When monitoring your dog, you should be assured to examine any bruising, redness, or symbols of viruses, like soreness or swellings on any part of the body. The eyes must be clear without any redness. Your accurate weekly analysis of your Golden Labradoodle will assist you in finding any possible health problems. Golden Labradoodle Life Expectancy The average life expectancy for a Golden Labradoodle is 12 to 15 years where heredity and lineage, and overall lifestyle decisions have a significant impact. The basic dilemma with standards is that they are just average. Any Golden Labradoodle can live a long life well if you are providing him with good food and exercise. Health Issues of the Golden Labradoodle The Golden Doodle is a strong race, but because of being in collaboration with other races, the Doodle is more jeopardized to develop several problems. This is a pretty great list of attributes. No wonder people love Labradoodles so much! What About Undesirable Traits? Be that the nervousness of some Poodles. Or the destructive chewing habit of some Labradors. But with so many positive traits, it makes sense that the Labradoodle was first bred to be a guide dog in service. In fact, Labradoodles continue to be in high demand as service dogs worldwide. This is because of their friendly, happy, intelligent, loving temperament. Does Coat Color Impact Temperament? The Labradoodle hybrid dog breed as a whole is still quite young and has not got a great deal of temperament or genetic history. They will try to take advantage of the demand. They do this by passing off poorly-bred or unverifiable puppies as true Labradoodles. Here, it truly will be up to you, the owner, to thoroughly research any Labradoodle breeder you want to work with. Or perhaps you want to adopt a Labradoodle from a rescue shelter or charity. Rescue golden Labradoodles may have none, some, or all of the characteristics of any dog who has been abandoned or given up for any number of reasons. In this case, taking the help of expert dog trainers can ease the transition for you both. Golden Labradoodle Health There is no evidence to date that suggests the golden Labradoodle coat color is directly associated with any breed-specific health issues. But, both the Labrador Retriever and the Standard Poodle dog breeds have known heritable genetic health issues. It is impossible to know in advance how two sets of genes will mix to influence a particular puppy in any litter. Reputable breeders will always ensure prospective parent dogs are health-tested for all known genetic diseases. This helps to avoid breeding puppies with genetic or other health defects. What are these Health Problems? Then you can ask your Labradoodle breeder for verification that both parent dogs have been cleared of all known genetic health issues. But, we will also look briefly at these problems here. Make sure your potential breeder does these health tests. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This condition is where the hip or elbow sockets form abnormally. It is a painful issue that can lead to difficulty walking, and arthritis. Labradors are prone to this, especially if they are overweight. Fortunately, breeders can carry out x-rays on potential parents to assess the quality of their joints. Testing for eye problems is important. Especially as PRA causes vision loss and eventually blindness. The severity of this can vary. But it involves muscle weakness and inability to move after intense periods of exercise. Cardiac Problems Heart issues are another common health problem in Labrador Retrievers that can be tested. Many larger breeds are prone to this. It is a fatal condition. The CHIC database for Standard Poodle dogs states that all breeding stock should be pre-tested for the following genetic health conditions. Hip Dysplasia We have looked at this briefly above. But Poodles are also prone to hip dysplasia and malformed joints. So, it is even more important that both parent breeds get tested for this problem. Hip scores are tested. So eye exams are another important test to ensure the healthiest puppies. This breed is also prone to eye issues like cataracts. There is no specific test for this. But eye examinations are still important. DNA tests are available for this. So, ensure your breeder tests for this disease. Epilepsy Another potential problem Standard Poodles can face is idiopathic epilepsy. Sebaceous Adenitis This is a skin disorder that has been seen in Poodles. There is no DNA test. So make sure parent dogs have no history of skin problems. Sebaceous Adenitis can cause blistering, itching, hair-loss, and infections. It is a hormone disorder that unfortunately has no DNA test. So, once again, breeders must know the family history of the dogs they want to breed. Not All Problems can be Tested For Not all genetic or idiopathic of unknown origin health issues can be tested for in advance. So, it is also important to learn as much as you can about the individual health and temperament history of each parent dog involved in breeding your puppy. If at all possible, arrange with the breeder to meet and interact with each parent dog. This will help you get a good idea of the temperament your Labradoodle puppy might inherit. Do this and also verify that all testable health issues have been performed on each parent dog. This will give you the best possible chance of bringing home a healthy, happy golden Labradoodle puppy. Golden Labradoodle Grooming All Labradoodle puppies will have a puppy coat for at least the first six months of their life. An adult Golden Labradoodle dog can have three different coat types: fleece, wool, or hair. You might wonder how this could be possible! But the answer boils down to the amount of genetic influence each purebred parent dog has over each puppy in a litter. And these two purebred dog breeds have very different coat types. It sheds seasonally and year-round, to hear most Lab owners tell it. Rather, it means that shed hair gets caught in the surrounding coat and must be brushed out manually. Dog Allergies If you have an allergy to dog dander, you will want to select a Labradoodle with a coat type more like the Standard Poodle parent. But, it can be hard to know in the first six months of life what coat type a given Labradoodle puppy may have inherited. So, if it is very important that your Labradoodle puppy grow up to have a non-shedding coat, ask the breeder about DNA coat testing. Golden Labradoodle with Fleece Coat This Labradoodle has fairly equal influence from each parent dog. It tends to arise most frequently in F1b litters one hybrid Labradoodle parent dog and one purebred Standard Poodle parent dog or F2 and later litters both parent dogs are hybrid Labradoodles. If your puppy grows up to have a fleece coat type as an adult, the coat will be very soft to the touch. Just like angora goat fleece. The coat will either be wavy or have soft spiral curls. If your puppy grows up to have a wool coat type as an adult, the coat will look and feel much like a Standard Poodle coat. It will be wiry and dense with tight curls. The wool coat needs a lot of grooming to brush out shed, dead hair before it can turn into skin-damaging tangles and mats. Owners often take wool-coated Labradoodles for professional grooming and clipping every six weeks to keep coat growth manageable. Often puppies with hair coats come from F1 generation litters one purebred Labrador Retriever parent dog and one purebred Standard Poodle parent dog. If your puppy grows up to have a hair coat type as an adult, the coat will look like a straight or wavy much longer and shaggier version of the Labrador Retriever coat. This hair coat type is fairly wash-and-wear. Plus lots of vacuuming to keep your home from being blanketed in dead, shed dog hair. And if you have dog dander allergies this is not the coat type for you! Your Golden Labradoodle We hope you have enjoyed learning more about all the factors that contribute to creating the most wonderful of hybrid dog breeds, the golden Labradoodle! Are you sharing your life with a golden Labradoodle now? Or are you thinking of adding a Doodle dog to your family? Please post a comment below to share your questions and experiences with the whole community! Take a look at a few of them below! If you are anything like us, the Golden Labradoodle might have recently caught your eye. But before bringing your little guy home, you might want to ask yourself a few questions. Maybe even make a list of the pros and cons of a Golden Labradoodle? That is the reason most people label Doodles as hypoallergenic. For example, if you have seasonal allergies, shedding dogs can set off sneezing fits. Hypoallergenic coats are also great for people with asthma and eczema. So which coats are the most hypoallergenic? Most Golden Labradoodles have either a curly, wavy, or straight hair type. But these types of coats can be the pros and cons of a Golden Labradoodle depending on how you view it. Temperament The Double Doodle is the best of everything you know about Doodles. They have the sweet and gentle spirits of the Goldendoodle, but they are also adventure-seeking like the Labradoodle. When you bring a Goldendoodle Labradoodle mix into your home, there will never be a dull moment. Your dog will love to cuddle and spend every waking moment with you. But these Doodles are also great for people who love to get out and be active. And when you combine this with their social natures, you will see that the Double Doodle lights up the room. Trainability Golden Labradoodles are some of the smartest dogs you will ever meet. They live to serve and make you happy, which means that your puppy is willing to do anything to make you proud. Anything from potty training to basic commands and tricks is a breeze. Colors You might think that Golden Labradoodles only come in golden colors. Sure, golds and creams are more popular, but they also come in blacks, chocolates, and tan. So if your ideal Doodle is black with curly hair, nothing will be in your way. These Minis are anything under 40 pounds and are perfect for those who want a medium-sized dog. Each breeder has an ideal weight that they aim for when mixing hybrids. Long Lifespans The Goldendoodle Labradoodle mix has a long and healthy lifespan. You will have anywhere between years with your family pet if they stay healthy. So what can you do to make sure that you get this, or even more? A great diet , exercise , and check-ups can do a world of wonders to keep your dog healthy. Their sweet characters and gentle spirits make them great family pets. You might even find that your dog understands how fragile younger children are. Your Doodle will stay calmer and act with caution to take care of your babies. The only times your dog will bark is when they get antsy for something. Whether they need a walk, food, or just entertainment, these Doodles will let you know what they need. But you will never see your Double Doodle barking aimlessly at small noises or things in the yard. But this is another one that can also be a con, depending on your optimism. Seeing all the good in a pet is the easy part. But in this next section, you will have to decide if each con is something you can live with. Grooming Are Golden Labradoodles high maintenance? If you are looking strictly at grooming needs, then yes. You will need to prepare for lots of brushing and grooming appointments with a Double Doodle. The curlier and silkier the hair is, the more it will need to be brushed. And curly and wavy coats need a trim every weeks. So you will spend a lot of time and money to keep up with the hypoallergenic coats. But they can inherit more characteristics of one breed over the other because genetics can be fickle. Your dog might act more like a Poodle but have the hair of a Lab. Activity Needs If you are an athletic person, the Golden Labradoodle will have no problems fitting into your schedule. They love to tag along on any outdoor activity you enjoy. Your Doodle will need to have at least an hour of exercise a day. You can rotate between intense play, dog parks, and walks to give your dog something to look forward to. Lots Of Attention With great intelligence in a dog comes great responsibility. Your Golden Labradoodle will need to have lots of attention and interaction to thrive. Unfortunately, that means that if you work long hours, this breed may not be for you. But there are a few ways to get around this. Hiring a dog walker for a midday stroll will help your Doodle feel loved and entertained. Another great option is Doggie Daycare , where your pup can also socialize with other dogs. Your dog will never feel alone and will have a home away from home. Health Most Golden Labradoodles are healthy and hearty dogs. But disease does not discriminate against breeds. Your Golden Labradoodle is more prone to: Joint problems. Gold Labradoodle puppies The Labradoodle is an equal blend of its Poodle and Labrador Retriever parents with a yellow coat. This mixed breed has become increasingly popular as a family pet due to its adorable looks and kind, loving temperament. But although their golden coat is a standard color for Labradoodles, they can come in various shades of gold depending on genetics. What is a Gold Labradoodle? The gold Labradoodle is a color variation of the Labradoodle hybrid designer dog. As it comes from two different parent breeds of the Poodle and Labrador Retriever, puppies will not all have the same characteristics, and it is difficult to predict the outcome. As well as gold, you can find Labradoodles in various other colors and shades. Gold Labradoodle vs Goldendoodle People often confuse the gold Labradoodle as being the same as the Goldendoodle. However, the Goldendoodle is another hybrid designer dog, a Poodle and Golden Retriever mix, while the gold Labradoodle is a Poodle and Labrador Retriever mix with a golden-colored coat. Checkout our guide to read more about the differences between Labradoodles and Goldendoodles Grooming a Gold Labradoodle Because the Labradoodle comes from the non-shedding Poodle and the double-coated Labrador, they can have three coat types: hair, fleece, and wool. A hair coat will shed all year round, while a fleece or wool coat will require frequent trips to the groomer for clipping and trimming. Gold Labradoodle Color Genetics It is quite fascinating to understand how genetics work to create the beautiful gold color coat of a Labradoodle. But you may wonder how a Labradoodle ends up with a gold coat based on these pigments? Because although the base color is red, it defaults to a yellow color when no other genetic influence is present to change it. But neither of the parent breeds comes in a standard gold color. Therefore, the genes a puppy inherits from its parents can impact how light or dark the shade of gold is in its coat. The nose is usually black for a gold Labradoodle, while the eyes can be brown or hazel. Dominant and Recessive Genes Every coat color of a dog is the work of either a dominant or recessive gene. For example, black is a dominant color, whereas brown is a recessive color. A puppy inherits a coat color gene from each of its parents, so it will have two coat color genes. Dominant genes will always overpower the recessive gene, meaning they will be the ones expressed. But to express a recessive gene, a puppy will need a recessive gene from each parent. The Recessive Gene of the Gold Labradoodle Coat For a Labradoodle to end up with a gold coat, it must inherit particular gene variants from its parents, which in this case are the E Locus and the D Locus. To produce a gold coat, the Labradoodle must inherit a copy from each parent breed. A Labradoodle must have this gene from both parents, resulting in a lighter gold coat. You can probably now see why it is difficult for breeders to breed Labradoodles with a gold coat. Are Gold Labradoodles Friendly? Labradoodles have a great reputation for having an open and happy temperament. There are no findings yet to suggest that the gold-colored coat affects the temperament of the Labradoodle. These dogs have a kind and playful nature and are easy to train. Gold Labradoodle Health The lifespan of a Labradoodle is 12 to 15 years. A reputable breeder will test their breeding dogs for genetic diseases associated with the Poodle and the Labrador. There is no evidence of any specific health issues linked to the Labradoodle. Your dog may be prone to some health conditions common in the parent breeds, which include: Hip and elbow dysplasia. Other Grooming Activities In addition to the grooming steps we mentioned above, you should also keep track of other activities like nail trimming , ear cleaning , and teeth brushing. They get along well with people of all ages, including young children. They come in multiple sizes, so you can adopt a pup according to your preference and living arrangement. Golden Labradoodles are generally healthy with a longer life expectancy when compared to purebred Retrievers. Cons Of Golden Labradoodles: Not all Golden Labradoodles are hypoallergenic, so you must carefully choose one based on their coat type. Getting a healthy and happy puppy is more than worth the investment! Neither of them is better than the other, as both Labradoodles and Goldendoodles are wonderful companions with many amazing traits. Additionally, they both have the same requirements when it comes to grooming, training, and exercise. However, based on our survey results , some people note that the Labradoodle can be a bit more laid back compared to the slightly more hyper Goldendoodle. Golden Labradoodle: Final Thoughts We hope this in-depth guide about the Goldendoodle-Labradoodle mix has shed some light onto this wonderful Double Doodle. Just make sure to research the breeder carefully before committing so that you can be sure your puppy is coming from an ethical source. Take matters into your own hands and learn to give your Doodle the exact haircut YOU want with this valuable online course!

So it sounds as if the 2am bathroom break went well, but at 5am, she had decide it was morning and wanted to get up. For that we'd usually recommend you set your alarm half an hour earlier to pre-empt the noise and work your way forwards from there. But it's clear that your puppy is quite muddled about night and day and doesn't feel very at home in her crate. Plus three weeks of sleepless nights has got to be taking its toll on you. And your puppy almost certainly could last six or seven hours during the night from a physical point of view at this age. So the waking and disturbing you is more of an emotional thing - she's figured out that crying gets you up. If she's peeing very frequently during the day though, do get a pee sample over to your vet to check for a bladder infection. If she doesn't have a UTI You have several options really. One is to take her back into your bedroom at night and start again with daytime crate conditioning. Getting her to love the crate and never leaving her alone in there during the day until she can settle happily in it with you in the room, whenever you put her in there. Another is to visit your neighbours with flowers or wine and chocolates and tell them there will be some noise for the next two or three nights, let her out at before she starts to cry. Then leave her to cry at 5 am and get up immediately she stops. So as to break out of the cycle of reinforcing the yelling with your very desirable company. The third option is to put a play pen around the crate with puppy pads inside the playpen outside the crate and leave her all night. Let her pee on the pads. I'd probably go for that one at this stage in the game, but it all depends on how well you can function without a decent sleep. You'll still require chocolates for option three. Most people will not object if you show you are really sorry to be disturbing them. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Your puppy is almost 3-months old! It really is crazy how fast puppies grow and develop that first year. It feels like that for us too. Learn about training your week-old Labrador puppy. Get the full story! This is post four of a step-by-step training and socialization program for Labrador puppies. If you read our first post , you know that this series follows our training of Bubba, a female chocolate lab puppy. Bubba is already sold as one of our Custom Trained Retrievers, so it is our responsibility to raise and train her until she has progressed to the level of training the owner has requested. In this case, Bubba will be with us for almost a year and a half. Bubba Training and socialization for week-old Labrador puppy — week four home Your week-old puppy has been with your family for almost a month. Besides growing bigger each day, you should be seeing some other changes in your Lab puppy. Bubba is as feisty as she is sweet. She is testing the rules every day but is also quick to heed a command of warning. This shows me that she knows the rules, knows when something is off-limits, but just wants to check and see if anything has changed since yesterday. This is a healthy attitude and behavior for her. Here are the things we worked on this week for training. Crate training Bubba is doing great at crate training. We follow this by one hour of play time or time out on the tie out. She understands the routine and is fairly compliant with going back in her kennel after a time out. We had to move Bubba into a larger crate this week. This crate should work until she is ready for her full-sized kennel. But it is now time to expect more from her. The next step is getting her to go into her crate by herself on command. We will accomplish this in a series of steps. If Bubba moves toward the door and goes into the crate, we will praise her. Then over time we will move her further and further from the crate door until she is going into the crate by herself. At this age, you need to hover over the puppy and be ready for them to make a run for it. Looking for more information on crate training? Housebreaking Housebreaking Bubba is going well. She often sits in front of the outside door when she needs to go out, and we quickly take her out when she does this behavior. We want her to understand that outside is the right place to go when you need to go potty, so we praise and reward her for sitting in front of the door or scratching at the door with taking her outside. Looking for more information on housebreaking? Commands we use in week four We continue to use the commands from week one , the commands from week two , and the commands from week three. There are no new commands for week 4. Obedience commands We continue to work on obedience commands this week and next week we will start some formal obedience training. She sits nicely while I put the leash on her and take it off. She is also sitting quickly on command before she is given permission to eat. It always surprises me how fast dogs learn this command when it comes to food. She is starting to understand and rarely pulls when we go on walks, although she still does not prefer to walk in the proper HEEL position. No worries, that will come. This is always a struggle with young puppies, there is a lot of distractions, and they seem to forget what they are doing mid-way through running to you. One safety note. Make sure the check cord does not have a loop on the end you hold. If your puppy is dragging the check cord, that loop may get caught on something and hurt your puppy. Either buy a check cord that is simply a straight long rope or cut the loop off. The long check cord is important for teaching HERE because it gives you something to grab a hold of or step on if your puppy decides to play games instead of being obedient. Never use a HERE command if you are not in the position of being able to enforce the command. If every time your puppy comes to you, you put her away or take something away from her, soon your puppy will not want to come to you. You must work hard to make coming to you a good experience for your puppy. So, call her, praise her when she comes and release. Socialization, socialization, socialization You can never do too much socialization. Anything you can think of. The more things and situations you expose your puppy to, the better your puppy will be equipped to adjust and learn in the future. Just a few days ago I was walking Bubba and I slipped and ended up dragging my shoe along the road. Bubba jumped a foot in the air and tried to bolt away. This new noise was something Bubba was unprepared for. This is why you can never do enough socialization; you want to prepare your puppy to handle as many new situations as possible. Learn more about socialization. But not ALL hunting elements. Please do not start shooting a gun around your puppy just yet. Introduction to gun fire is the very last element that we introduce hunting dogs to. And when we do, there has been a lot of pre-work done so that we have removed much of the likelihood that the puppy will respond negatively. Learn more about how and when to introduce your dog to gunfire. Water introduction If the weather is cooperating, now is a great time to get your puppy swimming. Find a pond with a slow gradual decline into the water. Throw a puppy bumper next to shore and if your puppy retrieves it, then the next throw should be just a few inches into the water, then about a foot out and then 2 feet out, etc. Some puppies get a little panicked by the first time the ground falls away and they need to swim. Just praise your puppy and keep going. Decoy introduction Our first introduction to decoys is done very simply. We have decoys set out for training and we move them around occasionally. We simply let Bubba run around while we pick up and move the decoys from one side of the field to the other. This gives her the opportunity to smell the decoys, paw at them and learn that they are not much fun. In a week or so, we will start doing some puppy marks in the decoys, but not yet. Continuation of assistant marks Bubba will continue to get assistant marks most days from now until she is done her training. The marks will continue to increase in distance and complexity but all our marking scenarios for our afternoon sessions involved gunners out in the field. For now, we will continue marks on short grass with white plugs so that Bubba can clearly see the item on the ground. Not too far down the road we will start incorporating some other marking concepts such as crossing deeper strips of cover and longer marks, but right now we are teaching the puppy to mark, to watch where the bumper falls and to run to the bumper. If we move to deeper cover too soon or make the marks too difficult we will inhibit Bubbas learning and marking ability. Final thoughts on training for your week-old Labrador puppy Your week-old puppy is quickly growing and changing. The training does not need to take a long time, but it does need to happen on a consistent basis. Keep at it and you will reap the benefits as your puppy grows into a full -sized dog and a stable hunting companion. If you are struggling or need additional help with your new puppy, you can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time, happy retrieving. Puppy training development after 6 months It is very tempting to get carried away with puppy training. Your young do is so willing to please and such fun to be around. It is important to go at a happy pace for you both. Positive reinforcement training is the right choice for your puppy because there are no negative consequences to getting something wrong. But you can still both suffer from burnout and frustration if you try to reach the later puppy training stages without totally aceing the earlier developments. Your Puppy Training Schedule This may not be exactly the same for each puppy, especially with retrieving which is more Labrador specific. However, it gives you a rough idea. Constantly changing direction. Stopping frequently for cuddles and rewards. This means I blow the recall whistle whenever the puppy runs towards me, no compulsion, and no whistle unless the recall is already underway. Socialisation: Lots almost daily of outings to different places rural and urban carried Visits to family and friends. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow mouthing. Working with food: Learning how to take food gently without snatching or grabbing at the treat pot. I still give the puppy lots of encouragement by running away as soon as I blow the whistle. Socialisation: More socialisation, at least twice a week to busy public places. Bite inhibition: Discourage hard biting, allow gentle mouthing. Retrieving: Encourage chase and pick up retrieve drive. Hand touch: I teach all new puppies to touch my hand with their noses. This is a great foundation for other skills. Recall: Puppy recall continues, reduce my run to a walk, avoid any distractions. Still frequently blow the recall whenever the pup runs towards me of her own free will. Socialisation: From ground level after vaccination. No other leash walking at all Bite inhibition: No biting, gentle mouthing allowed. Retrieving: Continue to build drive. Positions: I introduce three positions — sit, stand, down. What to expect from your 3 month old puppy Most three month old puppies will be sleeping through the night. And will be having less potty training accidents in the house. There are a few potty training problems that arise at this age, and they are all covered in 15 potty training problems solved. Biting is a big shock and a big problem for many new Lab puppy parents so do check out our complete guide to biting , and join the forum for help and support. Help encourage your puppy to stay in their bed while you are eating. I have a pot of dog treats on our kitchen table, and whenever we sit down to a meal, the puppy gets a treat each time she steps into her basket. Just a treat for stepping in there. What to expect from your 4 month old puppy Your 4 month old puppy will be pretty much potty trained, but accidents still happen if they are left alone too long. Biting is usually starting to subside now, and many four month old puppies will be able to mouth at your hand without hurting you. At this point I start to discourage all mouthing. I teach every puppy to let me touch her face or approach her with my hand, food, a leash etc while holding eye contact and not grabbing at me, or at what is in my hand. This is the age at which people often start to push forward with training. Your 4 month old puppy is capable of quite a lot. There is nothing wrong with teaching your puppy different cues and even some tricks. I recommend you still avoid long duration activities at this point as they are a common stumbling point with puppies young enough to have a short attention span. A ten second sit is ample. Add mild distractions Recall: Fade additional cues. Begin to whistle the pup and stand still. Add mild distractions. Clicker train to polish this in more mouthy puppies. No commands are needed for this. Gradual introduction of distractions. Advanced puppy training begins in earnest This is where I start a programme of sporting training with my Labs. You can begin raising your standards and expectations, asking for longer and more complex behaviors. Teaching your puppy to walk to heel nicely for longer distance and past all kinds of distractions and temptations. Or teaching your puppy to sit and stay for longer periods of time, and even while you go out of sight or while other dogs play nearby. What to expect from your six month old puppy Six months is a common time for people to have a lot of questions and to be struggling with a few challenges. This is now a very bouncy, quite powerful and rapidly maturing young dog. And you may need to patch up a few holes in his training or manners. We have a great article for owners of six month old Lab puppies. But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Deer Creek Comfort Dogs Shaping future companions for families and those in need of comfort Our family has been raising puppies for over 20 years. Our children have always had a passion for dogs which began our journey and now our grandchildren enjoy growing up with our wonderful dogs by their side. Deer Creek provides emotional support dogs, therapy dogs, service and therapy prospects, canine good citizen dogs as well as family pets. Deer Creek assists our families with puppy selection to help ensure the families get the puppy that will work well with their needs. Someone once said, "Acquiring a dog may be the only opportunity a human ever has to choose a relative" and we hope you choose one of ours. If you are interested in finding your new family member, fill out our puppy application and we will be thrilled to work with you. We recognize that our dogs have the capability of changing peoples' lives on a therapeutic level. Many of our Doodles have become therapy dogs at funeral homes, children's advocacy centers, hospitals and nursing homes, and others have found homes as anxiety, PTSD and emotional support dogs. Learn more about our nonprofit organization Deer Creek Paw Prints at www. Learn More Molly, Rhys, and Beau! View fullsize Both our chocolate Labradoodle and our Poodle are beautiful dogs with excellent temperaments. They are our family pets. Because we begin with a Labradoodle and a Poodle, rather than a Lab and a Poodle, our puppies are much more likely to have the non-shedding Poodle coat. A F1b Labradoodle has been back-crossed to a poodle in an effort to insure a non-shedding coat. Even though most f1b Labradoodles shed very little or not all, it is impossible to guarantee that any dog even doodles or purebred poodles will not shed at all. Hypo- means less hypothermia is having a lower than normal body temperature. No dog can be said to be completely non-allergenic. Studies have shown that doodles are less likely to cause allergies, particularly f1b doodles. The ideal is to keep as much of the Lab head shape and super-friendly personality as possible while getting the non-shedding Poodle coat as well as the dignified, less vocal characteristics of the Poodle. Our Labradoodle methodology is quite simple. First, we get quality dogs. This is why we wanted to have pick of the litter for our Labradoodle and our Poodle and why we only obtained puppies from reputable breeders that we knew we could trust. Second, we try to treat our dogs Labradoodle and Poodle well. We feed our Labradoodle and Poodle high quality food with plenty of protein, and give them wonderful socialization and opportunities for exercise. We have 12 acres along the Enoree River with trails, additional property next to a Greenville state park, and property on Lake Hartwell giving us the opportunity to take the dogs kayaking. We recognize the importance of socializing young Labradoodle puppies so they will not be fearful as they mature. Our Labradoodle puppies have lots of opportunities to play with our children, and water games are definitely on top of the list. Labradoodles love the water and so do my kids, as you can see below. Third, we try to find appropriate families for our Chocolate Labradoodle puppies. To learn more about our process, check out this resource that gives a step-by-step guide between the application to receiving your puppy! A Chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle is not for everyone, and a puppy is not for everyone. If your family is not prepared for a Labradoodle puppy financially, time investment, etc. When can you get your puppy? Because we have only one Labradoodle mother and a couple guardian homes , puppies are available only occasionally. Contact us nathan crockettdoodles. We have a flexible waiting list and offer your deposit back if we do not have the ideal Labradoodle puppy for you within a certain window of time. Sometimes with mini Labradoodles we prefer to wait until they are a little older than 8 weeks because accidents tend to happen more easily with really small puppies. We will take several pictures of you with your Labradoodle puppy. We will send you the pictures for free place them on a USB thumb drive for you , and you will have full copyright privileges to all of the pictures to use at your discretion. You have the option of whether or not the photos appear here on the ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Although we never ship puppies, we will sometimes personally deliver puppies for a reasonable fee. Why should you consider getting a Chocolate Labradoodle from us? If a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy is right for your family, and if you are within driving distance of Greenville, SC, you may want to consider getting a chocolate Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle from us. If you read our Labradoodle puppy methodology and like what you read, you should consider adopting one of our puppies. We have a three-year health guarantee on each of our puppies if the forever home continues to feed TLC one year health guarantee on all others. How can you get a Chocolate Labradoodle or Labradoodle mini from us? If you think your family would be a good match for one of our Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppies, then start the conversation by emailing us at nathan crockettdoodles. You will have full access to all pictures and hold the copyright to make as many pictures as you desire. You keep all the pictures. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality collar. We give your Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy a quality leash. We give you a bag of high quality dog food. We believe that you should give your new Labradoodle puppy or mini Labradoodle puppy the best food. Instructional materials about crate training and house training. Our goal is to do everything we can to assist in the house training and crate training process. A Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle puppy or any puppy cannot be completely reliable in the house until the puppy is about 6 months old. The simple point is that no matter what some breeders tell you you will be partially involved in the house training process unless you buy an older Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle , but we want to help you with that process. A one-year health guarantee; extended to three years for all who continue to feed TLC. We are concerned with finding really good homes for our Labradoodle and mini Labradoodle puppies. Labradoodle Color To see a list of available colors, check out this page. At ChocolateLabradoodlePuppies. Ultimately we cannot completely control the color of puppies. Even though chocolate is the most desirable color, we sometimes have puppies of other colors even occasional merles. These puppies, will of course, also make excellent pets. These non-chocolate Labradoodle puppies are also available to great families, but we know that Chocolate Labradoodles are the most desirable. The Labrador Retriever has a short coat that sheds. By breeding the F1 Labradoodle back to an unrelated Poodle, the chances of getting the highly desirable non-shedding Poodle coat increase exponentially. Some F1B Labradoodles are bred back another time to a Poodle in an effort to guarantee a Poodle coat. If high quality dogs are chosen to breed that have the head shape of a Labrador Retriever it is possible to get a puppy that is very similar in many ways to a Labrador, but has the beautiful non-shedding Poodle coat. Both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are highly intelligent dogs, helping Labradoodles excel in smarts, train-ability, and a general desire to always please their owner. If you desire a family-friendly, kid loving, medium energy dog that is comfortable inside or outside, that loves the water and the land, you should definitely consider a Labradoodle or mini Labradoodle. For more info about Labradoodle puppies or mini Labradoodle puppies, please email nathan crockettdoodles. Check out our sister site miniLabradoodlePuppies. We specialize in Chocolate Labradoodles and mini Labradoodles, but often we have other colors as well. Occasionally someone travels from Atlanta, Columbia, Raleigh-Durham or Knoxville, but our proximity to North Carolina and the popularity of Labradoodles in North Carolina make Charlotte and Asheville our most serviced locations. We also have some who are interested from distant states, but we primarily serve the Southeast U. Their adorable curly fur and expressive faces make you want to cuddle them — and these little guys love nothing more than a good squish. All this and more makes our labradoodle puppies for sale one the most in-demand in our center. Activity-loving families adore these dogs for their propensity towards sports, and anyone who prefers low-shedding pooch benefits from their wooly or fleecy fur. Labradoodle puppies for sale are so cute and come in such a wide range of colors that it makes choosing your new best friend super-hard! While spearheading the Royal Guide Dogs Association of Australia breeding program, he conducted the crossbreeding of a standard poodle and Labrador retriever in view of it being a hypoallergenic guide dog for blind people. The first example of this type of dog, called Sultan, went to live with a lady in Hawaii, where other breeders saw him as an inspiration and this is how Australian Labradoodle puppies started. Both the International Australian Labradoodles Association and the Australian Labradoodles Association of America are working hard to incorporate more intergenerational breeding so these dog breeders can register this type of dog as a purebred dog. Its gentle, obedient and intelligent personality combined with a hypoallergenic coat make it ideal for family members with allergies, but it also makes an excellent service or therapy dog. Labradoodle Puppies Lifespan When properly taken care of, healthy dogs tend to live anywhere from 10 to 13 years. The lifespan of our Labradoodle puppies for sale is slightly above average at 12 to 14 years. Here are the life stages of multigenerational Australian Labradoodles: Puppyhood: First five months Adolescence: Between five months and two years Adulthood: Between two and three years Middle age: Between seven years and 10 years Senior: Over 10 years Labradoodles need the most attention and care in the first and last stages of their life. During puppyhood, their minds are highly impressionable, which is ideal for training. During their senior years, Labradoodles are more susceptible to health problems, which means owners need to keep a watchful eye. Labradoodle Size The size of labradoodle puppies for sale directly relates to the size of their parents and which generation of breed Labradoodle breeders chose. The larger the puppies, the larger the adult dog will be, and the faster their growth will be coming out of the puppy stage. A standard labradoodle puppy will weigh from pounds by the time it reaches two months of age. By a year old, it will have grown dramatically to up to 80 pounds, depending on the size of its parents. Medium Labradoodles occupy a spectrum of sizes between standard and mini Labradoodles, with the specifics depending heavily on the details of the breeding pair that birthed them and the breeding program they come from. Labradoodle Puppies Temperament While Labradoodle breeders originally bred the Australian Labradoodles as therapy dogs, their fun, friendly personalities made them popular pets. Now you can find these sociable dogs in homes across the globe. Here are some of the top personality traits of our Labradoodle puppies for sale. They tend to do best in active households where they can work off all that pent-up energy. You can fulfill their needs through the following activities: Walks or jogs: Labradoodles make great walking companions and can even keep up with you during a jog. Playing in the yard: Enjoy a game of fetch with your furry friend in the yard or just let it loose on its own. Dog sports: If you stay active through sports, consider making your labradoodle a part of your routine. Bring it on bike rides, go for a run together or kick a ball around in the yard. Obstacle courses: Set up an obstacle course for your dog using household items. Scavenger hunt: Creating a scavenger hunt for your canine is a great way to exercise its body and brain. In general, Labradoodles need anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes of exercise a day. You can also enroll them later at a Labradoodle puppy alumni school for proper training. Friendliness What makes Labradoodles the perfect puppy compare to other dog breeds is their ability to get along with just about anyone. They inherit this trait from their Labrador retriever parent, a breed also known for its outgoing nature. You can trust your labradoodle to form friendships with everyone, from children and older adults to strangers and other puppies. Thanks to their affectionate, sociable personalities, Labradoodles make great pets for first-time owners, families, or anyone looking for a companion. Intelligence Thanks to their poodle parent breeds, Labradoodles are incredibly intelligent dogs. Because Labradoodles are intelligent, they often crave mental stimulation. Labradoodle Puppies Grooming Our Labradoodle puppies for sale have a variety of coat textures that dog owners enjoy, but in general, their low shedding coat needs brushing at least twice a week. Not only does this keep them tangle-free but it also removes excess debris from their coat, keeping them fresh and hygienic. Regularly trim the hair around their eyes and in between their paws to prevent these problem areas from causing irritation. Pooches with fleece coats tend to have longer fur and benefit the most from going to a professional groomer — although every dog loves getting pampered once in a while. At Pride and Prejudoodles, we send a can and a bag of the foods we use for free with your hand-delivered bundle of joy. If you need to change it for any reason, it must be done gradually to avoid stomach upsets. Just bear in mind that a diet is such a crucial aspect of wellness that feeding them good quality food will add years to their lives compared to opting for low-quality feed. Pride and Prejudoodles is here to help. We hope you found our guide informative. Please contact us with any other questions you have about our Labradoodle puppies for adoption. They have beautiful wavy fleece coats that will be non shedding and allergy friendly. Both Parents are easy going, affectionate and willing to please. He is a willing to please funny and goofy all while keeping his person in his sight. He has great eye contact and a nice connected intituive temperament. Possible therapy type dog. He has advanced training and is ready to explore the world, house trained, crate trained and learning more every day. He is a willing to please and a great learner with good intuition and great eye contact, he is easy going peaceful and calm. He has great eye contact and loves to be with his people, plays nice with all of the other dogs of all sizes. He will be a great family dog or dog for an individual. She is started on all of her basic training and well advanced with a calm easy going nature. She will be an excellent family dog or possible therapy type dog. She wants to please and learns quickly, going over and through obstacles, with great leash manners and offering good behaviours, she is house trained and crate trained.

Date Received: Purchase Price: The Buyer agrees to provide life-long commitment, comfortable environment, prompt medical attention, proper grooming and responsible care for this puppy. Proper nutrition is to be provided at regular intervals, and fresh clean water available at all times. The Buyer promises to provide a safe environment for the dog, and never allow the dog to roam freely without proper fencing or supervision. The Buyer will not leave the puppy alone for more than 8 hours at a time on a regular basis. One stud service will be considered completed once the Bitch gives birth to at least three puppies, each living to 60 days. The Seller will pay for all expenses associated with stud service including but not limited to transportation, collection, preservation, and shipment of semen. The Buyer agrees to maintain communication with the Seller at all times, and provide information in regards to sperm count and readiness of the dog to breed. No guarantee is given to fertility or ability to produce offspring. Buyer agrees to purchase pet health insurance for this puppy. Seller recommends Trupanion or Nationwide. Buyer agrees to continue the exact diet the puppy was started on for a minimum of three months after leaving the Seller. Buyer understands that switching the diet during the transitional period make cause significant gastrointestinal distress. Any issue to with appetite, obtaining the proper food, or interest in switching the diet must be discussed with and approved by the Seller. The Buyer must inform the Seller of the results of the veterinary exam within 24 hours of the veterinary exam via email. Failure to do so in the time frame stated above will result in termination of this agreement. The puppy is warranted for one year against fatal and life altering congenital disease including kidney, heart, pancreas, spine, and liver problems. Conditions must be of a severe, life threatening nature. The puppy must show defect within one year of age. The Seller must be notified of the problem within 48 hours of diagnosis. The Buyer must produce reports from two licensed veterinarians from two unassociated veterinarian clinics. These reports must reach the same diagnosis and conclusion. The Buyer must obtain all veterinarian records and forward to the Seller within 48 hours of the first diagnosis. The Buyer must return the puppy to the Seller within ten days of report of first diagnosis. The affected puppy must be in good condition, other than the specified problem. The Buyer is responsible for all shipping costs, including the shipping of the affected puppy back to the Seller as well as shipping costs of sending a replacement puppy as needed. If the puppy should die within the one year warranty, the Buyer is required to have an autopsy performed to determine cause of death. No replacement will be given if the affected puppy dies and the Buyer does not perform an autopsy, or if the autopsy does not show any congenital disease. If an autopsy is performed on a puppy who died before one year old, and confirms cause of death is congenitally genetic then the Seller will replace the puppy within one year of the veterinary report with a puppy or equal or lesser value. The replacement puppy will be chosen by the Seller. No money refunds will be given. The Seller is not responsible for veterinary costs and will not pay any medical bills. Once the puppy is paid for and living with the Buyer, the Buyer is fully responsible for all Veterinary bills. The puppy has received vaccinations for parvovirus and distemper and is warranted against parvovirus and distemper for 48 hours upon receiving the puppy. This contract does not cover the health conditions which are considered very common to this specific breed, and in even the best bred French Bulldogs. These conditions which are not life threatening and in many cases are easily and inexpensively treated include ear infection, eye infection, skin infection, cherry eye, entropion or ectropion eyelids, loose hips, loose knees, elongated soft palate, hypoplastic trachea, stenotic nares, inverted tails and corkscrew tails, allergies, fertility issues, parasitic infection, fungal infection, or bacterial infection, respiratory infection, undescended testicles, uneven bite, localized demodex, coccidiosis, kennel cough, giardia, and diarrhea. Many of the above listed conditions are frequently potentiated by the stress of separation, and change in environment. The French Bulldog is a companion breed and is known to suffer from separation anxiety. We do our best to make a smooth transition from our care to yours which will minimize the stress for your puppy. Conditions not found during the exam cannot be disclosed as the Seller has no knowledge of their existence at that time. The Seller will make every effort to be transparent regarding health before the puppy comes home with the Buyer. A puppy that has died from anesthesia as a result of being put under for surgery, etc. Sudden death from chocking on an object, falling from any distance, being run over by vehicle or otherwise trauma of any sort is not covered in this health guarantee. It is the Buyers obligation to watch this puppy at all times. Any physical problem which is or could be caused by accident, injury, neglect, or poor diet is not covered in this contract. Mental health, aggressive or otherwise unfavorable behavior which can be prevented with obedience training and proper socialization is not covered in this contract. If at any time the Buyer is no longer able to provide a comfortable and safe home environment for this puppy, the Buyer must return the puppy to the Seller without compensation. The Buyer understands that this puppy cannot be re-sold, re-homed, or given up to a shelter at any time for any reason. The Seller has the sole right to assume responsibility for the puppy if the Buyer is no longer able or willing to be responsible for the puppy. The Buyer is required to sign this contract at the time the non-refundable deposit is placed. Failure to return a signed contract to the Seller before the puppy is released from the Seller to the Buyer will result in cancellation of this contract, which means the Buyer will forfeit any right to compensation from the Seller. Seller has the right to terminate this contract at anytime for any reason between the period that the deposit is placed and before the puppy is received. In the case that the Seller decides the Buyer is no longer a good fit for this puppy, then the Seller will return the deposit. However, if the Buyer decides that they no longer want the puppy for any reason between placing a deposit and before picking the puppy up to take home, the Seller forfeits their deposit in full. Prior to leaving, the puppy will have received a veterinary examination, at least one set of age appropriate vaccinations, and dewormed multiple times. The Seller will provide a hard copy record of the vaccinations and dewormers given to the puppy. It is understood that the Seller assumes no responsibility after the puppy leaves the premises for any change of mind of the Buyers behalf such as a landlords disapproval, allergies, disagreement with family, trouble with housebreaking, etc. In these and similar cases, the Buyer must return the puppy to the Seller without compensation. The puppy must be paid for in full at the time of pick up or at 7 weeks of age if transportation via flight nanny is needed. The puppy must be paid for in full at the time of pick up if picked up in person. NW Frenchies does not finance the purchase of any puppy. If the Buyer is co-owning the puppy, the Buyer must notify the Seller, so that all parties sign the contract. The Seller must approve all future owners of this puppy otherwise the contract is void in full. The Buyer understands that the deposit placed to hold the puppy is non-refundable. The deposit may not be switched to an unsold puppy in the same or other litter unless prior agreed upon with the Seller. It is understood that this contract only applies to the original Buyer, and is non- transferable. It is further understood that there are no warranties, either expressed or implied to the Buyer except as set forth in this agreement. By signing this contract the Buyer agrees and accepts all terms and conditions implemented in this contract. The Seller will help with travel arrangements but is not responsible or liable for the puppy once the puppy leaves the Seller. After 4 weeks the Buyer forfeits their deposit, any right to this puppy, and any right to compensation from the Seller. In the event the Seller is unable to reach the Buyer for more than 2 weeks, the Buyer forfeits their deposit, and right to this puppy, and any compensation from the Seller. The preceding paragraphs contain conditions established to ensure the well-being of your new family member. Both parties have read and fully understand and agree to all terms and conditions of this contract. By signing, Buyer acknowledges to have received a copy of this contract. This puppy sales contract and health guarantee is construed in accordance with and governed by the laws of the State of Washington. All puppies have been recently examined by a licensed veterinarian and will have received a health certificate prior to their travel. Because of this thorough veterinary examination Breeder gives the Buyer a 7 day health guarantee covering contagious illness and a one year guarantee for life threatening congenital disorders. If the Puppy is found to have a contagious illness within 7 days or if the Puppy dies within the guarantee time period, the Buyer must notify Breeder within 48 hours with the following information: Date Puppy was examined; Name, address and phone number of the licensed Veterinarian who examined the Puppy; The diagnosis and all medical records; Necropsy REQUIRED if death has occurred. Breeder will have their veterinarian review approve the diagnosis prior to the return or replacement of the Puppy. If a return is necessary Buyer is responsible to make the arrangements to return Puppy back to the breeder at Buyers cost with the requested vet information and all registration paperwork. Breeder will replace the Puppy with one of the same value when one becomes available for up to eighteen months. The replacement puppy may be from a different litter at a latter date or from different parents. Replacement is the only option, we do not give cash refunds. Shipping costs are non-refundable and are always the responsibility of the Buyer. DO NOT allow your new puppy to be around strangers or unvaccinated dogs, sidewalks, veterinary floors, grass areas or anywhere that other dogs have been until after ALL puppy vaccinations are completed at 16 weeks of age. Because of the nature of a live animal Breeder cannot control the environmental exposure of the Puppy after it leaves the care of the Breeder. Breeder intends that the Buyer will provide the Puppy a permanent home. Breeder will provide applicable registration papers for Puppy. Breeder relinquishes breeding rights to Buyer. There is no guarantee of color, size, breeding, show quality or temperament of the Puppy. There is no guarantee against, hypoglycemia, luxating patellas, cherry eye, dry eye, elongated soft palate, stenotic nares, inverted tail, demodectic mange, herniation inguinal or umbilical , broken bones, allergies, un-descended testicles, bite, parasites or any condition that is treatable and not life threatening. Do not put your puppy on high places including furniture where it may fall and injure itself. Even a sofa can be dangerous to a young puppy. Watch small children who may handle your puppy. Puppies can be seriously injured or killed if dropped or over-handled. French Bulldogs are sensitive to temperatures, especially heat. Never leave your puppy unattended in any area that is not climate controlled. French Bulldogs quickly overheat in high temperatures. Treat the Puppy just as an infant child. Make sure the Puppy is eating and drinking regularly. Should the Buyer change their mind for any reason about the purchase of the Puppy or is no longer able to care for the Puppy at any time, Buyer will not receive a replacement puppy or a refund. However, please contact Breeder for assistance to locate a suitable new home for the Puppy. Remember the Puppy is a baby and will need proper care, training and discipline as it grows up. Seek out local training classes or clubs to help you teach your puppy to be a good canine citizen. We always have inquiries regarding our puppies, and another family may be ready to reserve that same puppy. We encourage you to place a deposit as soon as you are ready! The puppy will be offered to the next family if we do not receive proof that the funds have been sent. The remaining balance is to be paid when the puppy is picked up at 8 weeks of age. Shipping fees and crate are in addition to the cost of the puppy. The puppy is to be picked up or shipped by 12 weeks of age; UNLESS prior arrangements are made with the Seller or the Buyer forfeits all monies paid and the puppy can then be re-sold. Seller does not warranty pups while being shipped; Seller has no control over their care or handling during transport. If Buyer needs to have pup shipped, it will be shipped by one of our trusted nannies or by Frenchie Kiss Inc. We want the best for our dogs and new owners. We will do our best to give helpful; timely advice. French bulldogs can quickly succumb to cold or heat. Buyer understands that MOST French bulldogs cannot swim well, and all precautions must be taken to insure the safety of your bulldog. Better safe than sorry! The Buyer agrees to provide the dog with the proper exercise, diet, shelter and general care and properly maintain adequate accommodations for a French bulldog considering its size and weight. The Buyer further agrees to provide regular veterinary care including checkups, booster vaccinations and any other care needed by the dog e. The Buyer agrees that Frenchie Kiss Inc. Buyer understands that one breeding is retained on ALL males sold with full registration, unless otherwise noted. If we choose to use the male as a part of our program all fees associated with collection, shipping of semen, or any breeding costs will be paid by Frenchie Kiss Inc. Puppies sold with limited registration will have no breeding rights and cannot be bred for any reason and will be in violation of agreement if puppy is bred. We, Frenchie Kiss Inc. Buyer must have puppy spayed or neutered by 1 year of age. Buyer will also pay all court costs associated with this matter. Breeder will either keep said puppy or find the puppy a suitable home. When a suitable home is secured, any monies received for the puppy will be reimbursed to the buyer. Under no circumstances may the dog be surrendered to any animal shelter. The dog is sold for the sole purpose of being a companion. While it may be capable of performing other functions, no warranty is given to its fitness for any special purpose. Health Guarantee: Puppy is covered until 12 months of age against life threatening congenital conditions. If puppy is found to have a life-threatening congenital defect by puppy's 1st birthday, Frenchie Kiss Inc. Frenchie Kiss Inc. If the second vet does not agree that the puppy has a life-threatening congenital condition, the buyer may opt to pay for a third opinion for a final diagnosis. If the quality of life of said puppy is severely affected the Seller asks that the puppy be humanely euthanized by a veterinarian and that a written and conclusive diagnosis and a description of the puppy along with the registration papers be returned to the Seller before a replacement puppy will be offered. If Buyer chooses to send puppy back to the Seller, the Seller will replace the puppy of equal value when one is available. The warranty is applicable only to the original Buyer and is not transferable to any third party. The Buyer agrees the remedies listed above are the only remedies available. If ill health is fraudulently claimed the second and third opinion cost will be the responsibility of the buyer. Buyer understands that the Seller makes no guarantee that they will be able to show or breed the puppy as an adult regardless of show or breeding potentials visually perceived as a puppy. We do our best to produce dogs that are show-able and breed able, but no one can guarantee the outcome of any puppy. Coccidiosis Coccidia , giardia, and Breeder KENNEL cough upper respiratory are not covered in this contract, all of which can be common in puppies and neither are life threatening and are easily treated. Parvovirus is not covered in this health guarantee. Seller HIGHLY recommends you the Buyer do not place your puppy on the ground in public places until their immune system is better developed after 18 weeks of age. These places are breeding grounds for disease and illness even for vaccinated adult dogs! Failure to have puppy examined by a licensed Veterinarian within this time frame will null and void the health guarantee. Puppies that do not have pet insurance will void 1-year Heath Guarantee. Puppies bred before 1 year of age will also void 1-year Health Guarantee. All legal proceedings will take place in the City of Red Deer in the Province of Alberta, the residence of the breeder, and this contract is valid the entire life of the canine unless transferred to a subsequent owner. Proof of successful completion is required for rebate.

Golden Cocker Retrievers borrow traits from both of their parents, normally with a medium length golden coat, floppy ears and a smaller stature than the Golden Retriever. Friendly, intelligent and energetic making a great family dog that will want to be involved in all your daily activities. They also go by the name Dakota Sport Retriever. Size: The Golden Cocker Retriever stands from 14 to 19 inches tall and can weigh anywhere between pounds, though the average weight is pounds. Coat: Considered a long haired breed but they do shed less than the average Golden Retriever. The most prominent colour is gold, but can come in all colours and patterns. Character: The Golden Cocker Retriever loves water and to play fetch. They are playful outdoors and calm while inside. This breed is very gentle and loving. Temperament: A soft-tempered breed, people-oriented and forms strong bonds with their owners. Care: Should be brushed on a weekly basis and bathed when needed. Their ears can be trimmed twice a year to avoid matting. Training: The Golden Cocker Retriever has a strong desire to please and is not difficult to train. Activity: Loves to play and should be exercised on a daily basis. The Cocker Spaniel may also experience hip and elbow dysplasia like the Golden Retriever. This breed has a life expectancy of 12 — 15 years. Keep in mind that the following information is based on its parent breeds. These are all predictions that vary from case to case depending on genetic makeup. In terms of physical appearance, the Cocker Spaniel comes in a variety of coat colors, so the forever puppy may not always be golden. It could be a mix of blue, black, brown, and white. The ideal attributes a Golden Cocker Retriever should have is a medium-length coat, floppy ears, and a smaller build than the Golden Retriever. We can predict the height of the Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel mix will range from 20 to 24 inches 51 — 61 cm. As we mentioned above its weight will range from 30 to 45 pounds 13 — 20 kg. The health concerns of a Golden Cocker Retriever are also based on its parents. Both the Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel are capable of experiencing seizures associated with epilepsy and hip and elbow dysplasia. On the Cocker Spaniel side, however, you have more serious illnesses to worry about like glaucoma and cancerous tumors. On the bright side, both parent breeds have a good life expectancy, so your Golden Cocker Retriever will live a long and happy life of at least 10 years! Want to see how this mix grows up? For owners who really want a teacup-sized Golden Cocker Retriever, there are some toy ones on the market. And then you mix it once again with Cocker Spaniel to get an even smaller dog. A dog with dwarfism may look cute and small but it causes them a lot of pain throughout their entire lives. The height of a standard Goldendoodle reaches 20 inches 50 cm. The weight ranges from 50 — 90 pounds 22 — 40 kg. Additionally, the coat of a Goldendoodle will be much curlier than the Golden Cocker Retriever thanks to its Poodle parent breed. Before buying one, consider if a Golden Cocker Retriever is your best match in the long run. How will this dog fit into your daily schedule and hobbies? Does This Mix Shed? Both parent breeds have long-haired coats that invite moderate to heavy shedding throughout the year. Do I Need A Backyard? Yes, yes, yes, yes, YES. Purebred Golden Retrievers sometimes need two sessions. A fenced backyard or a playpen is also essential to keep your Golden Cocker Retriever from wandering off. Both parent breeds have a long history of being hunting dogs with a strong prey-drive. If your Golden Cocker Retriever sees or smells a small animal in the distance, it will run as quickly as it can to track it down. Dogs are just fine. For example, any sign of stubbornness or independence can lead to harder training. Start training as early as possible as puppies are easier to handle than adults. The temperament of a Golden Cocker Retriever should be: Happy. Fuzzy, playful, and affectionate, this hybrid has a silly and active disposition. As a mixed breed, this pup comes from Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel parents. Their origins are unknown, but it is believed they came into existence in the last two decades. This makes them a new designer breed, so the information on them is very limited. That being said, you can learn a lot about this breed through their mom and pop. For example, the Golden Retriever originated in Scotland and is known for their high intelligence and agility. The Cocker Spaniel hails from Spain, and they were bred as hunting dogs. Both breeds are smart, friendly, and make great companions. The Golden Cocker Retriever has traits from both sides. Also known as the Dakota Sport Retriever or Cogol, this puppy has cute antics in spades. Like most young dogs, they are full of mischief and curiosity about the world around them. As mentioned, this hybrid is a new designer breed only coming into the mainstream in the last 20 years. Designer breeds became popular around the s, so anything newer is considered very young in the canine community. They have startling ancestors. They became a popular breed among nobility and hunters alike for this reason. Some of their facial features are consistent even if their coloring is different. The Golden Cocker Retriever will have brown eyes and a black nose. They are also limited in their fur color. As it currently stands, they are either black or brown. They are very affectionate and love to be part of the family. They need more space to stretch their legs and play. They enjoy games, agility courses, and other tasks they can learn. The Golden Cocker Retriever is alert but also docile. They will sound an alarm if there is anything suspicious going on, but they are not aggressive and unlikely to bite. As they are easy-going without any bossiness, this is a great breed for first-time owners. As a family orientated pup, the Cogol does not appreciate being left alone. They want to be included in all family activities whether it be going for a jog, heading to the post office, watching TV, or taking a shower. They will be happy to hop right in there with you! This will require a considerable amount of your time. This pooch has a needy streak, and they need a lot of attention. Otherwise, they can become destructive out of fear and loneliness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are at home with large and boisterous people who are active and love having a four-legged friend around. They are also great for kids of all ages. They love the exuberance of children, and they will be ready to get down and dirty with them in the backyard. Games, tricks, and even wrestling matches are on the agenda. Due to their sensitive and sweet disposition, the Cogol is better at handling small kids than most canines. As they are devoted to their family, they will quickly take on the persona of a parent and follow behind the kids. This breed is also a good companion for a single-person home. Under these circumstances, it is better if you work from home or can take your pup with you. They are not going to tolerate long absences well. They are also likely to make friends at the local dog park. On the other hand, they have an alertness that simmers right below the radar. They are quick to recognize someone that is angry or a dog that is aggressive. Although they are not aggressive themselves, they can be protective of you. Something else to note is their hunting ancestors. The prey drive is not overly high, but they might engage in a small animal chase from time to time. This will usually be followed by a look that clearly states they were never going to hurt them…it was all in fun. As with most canines, socializing your Golden Cocker Retriever when they are puppies is essential to their well-rounded adult personality. This is typically not difficult as their friendly nature will take over. Before you hit the gas pedal, however, there are still a few other aspects of the Cogol you should be aware of before adopting this designer dog. Not to worry though, we have filled in the blanks on their general care requirements below. That being said, a canine that is on the high end of the energy scale should be fed a balanced diet that promotes their lifestyle. Meals should have plenty of protein to support their muscles , fat to keep their energy high, and fiber to help their digestion. They should also be given food that has antioxidants, probiotics, omega fatty acids, and other vitamins and minerals. You should aim for all-natural meals with low carbohydrates, sugar, salt, and artificial ingredients. Fillers and protein boosters are also not great. When picking out their snacks, you should go for products that are nutritious and healthy. Your Cogol should be given a few table scraps, but you can supplement their meals with good treats. Not only do they thoroughly enjoy them, but they help with training and will create a bond between the two of you, as well. They may recommend specific brands or formulas that will promote the overall well-being of your Golden Cocker Retriever. They will need at least 60 minutes of exercise daily that you can break up into two minute trips. The Cogol is a great companion if you are a walker, jogger, or runner. They also will follow you on bike rides , and they love to swim. Either way, they will need to get the excess energy out to be content. Besides the daily exercise, this pup also benefits from playtime, which they should also get plenty of each day. Games such as fetch, tug of war , and chase are great favorites. Tricks, training, and agility courses are also a great idea for this pet. As they are very intelligent, they do well with mental stimulation. One thing you should avoid, however, is leaving your pet alone in the backyard for a long time. They can become bored, sad, and destructive if they do not have the proper exercise. Lessons in obedience, behavior, and potty training are essential, plus socialization. Exposing your pup to different places, smells, and people is important. The Cogol is very sensitive and aware of their surroundings. They can easily become depressed or saddened if the atmosphere is constantly angry. That being said, this breed picks up on training lessons quickly. They are very intelligent and ready to please. Positive reinforcement is typically all that is needed to show them the way. You will also want to find a consistent schedule for lessons. This dog does well with repetition in conjunction with treats and praise. As part of their training, you also want to get your pet used to grooming activities. This pooch has a higher-than-average grooming schedule, so getting them used to these treatments will make things easier as they grow. This is due to its long, soft, and dense fur coat that will need to be consistently taken care of by brushing and bathing. They have a moderate amount of shed and a tendency to get tangles, so brushing them with a firm bristle brush daily is important. It is also recommended that they have a bath every six to eight weeks, although it is also recommended that they have professional grooming done every four to six weeks. Bathing a pup with this amount of fur can be difficult. It will keep them clean down to the skin, and because the fur is prone to damage, it helps protect the hair follicles. Beyond that, their care is pretty basic. You will need to clean their ears weekly checking for mites and wax. Their teeth should also be brushed daily , or as often as possible. Lastly, you will need to file their nails and check their paw pads for cracking and irritation. The Cogol can have some issues with their paws, so you should monitor them in order to catch an issue before it gets to a painful level. Filing their nails can be done on an as-needed basis. As a general rule, if you can hear them clicking on solid floors, the nails are too long. Below, we have outlined major and minor conditions your Golden Cocker Retriever could have throughout their lifetime. Minor Conditions The minor issues to be on the lookout for are weight gain, paw issues, and ear infections. Serious Conditions The serious issues this breed is prone to are Hip Dysplasia, Hypothyroidism, and Entropion Final Thoughts If you have an active family where someone is always ready for an outside adventure, the Golden Cocker Retriever is a good pet for you. They are sweet, playful, active, and loving. This pup is happy to just be part of the family, but they do need a lot of exercise and attention. If you are ready to devote the time to this breed, the Cogol will make a wonderful pet. As far as their care, this pooch is easy to train and has few diet restrictions. Their grooming takes some effort, but they are a dream to train and socialize. Overall, you will find an intelligent, happy, and affectionate pal that will be your fast friend forever if you adopt a Golden Cocker Retriever. See also:. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. They are not purebreds like their Golden Retriever or Cocker Spaniel parents. The mixed breed does shed, so aim to brush the coat daily if possible, being on the lookout for any potential mats. Golden Cocker Retrievers usually have no problems getting along with kids. This is a gentle and playful mixed breed that will happily become play buddies with your children This is not a dog who does well being left alone for long periods of the day. But digging into the background of their parent breeds can tell you a lot about where the dog comes from. Developed in Scotland, the Golden Retriever has always been renowned for their high intelligence and ability to take on agility and obedience-based tasks. When it comes to the Cocker Spaniel, this breed comes from Spain where they began as a hunting dog with a special expertise at tracking down and startling fowl. The Golden Cocker Retriever has become known as a designer dog breed, but many of them unfortunately end up in shelters. As is always the case with newer mixed dog breeds, exact size standards might vary. Most weigh in at 30 to 45 pounds and range in height from 20 to 24 inches. A total family dog, the mixed breed will quickly form loving bonds with the humans in their life—and will also very much want to be in on the act with any day-to-day tasks and activities. This is not a dog who does well being left alone for long periods of the day. Even better, at the end of a long day of healthy outdoor action, the dog will love to cuddle up together as you relax and recuperate on the couch. Golden Cocker Retrievers usually do great around children. Golden Cocker Retriever Health Golden Cocker Retrievers are generally considered to be healthy dogs; although, the breed can be predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Golden Retriever and Cocker Spaniel face. Your vet can help you develop a care routine that will keep your dog healthy. If you jog, bring the dog along! If you have access to a safe off-leash park, even better. If you have a safe fenced-in yard, add some interactive toys to the environment and let the breed explore and investigate. As with any dog who loves the outdoors, check that their nails are trimmed and in good shape, and examine the paw pads for any signs of damage. Doing this every two weeks should suffice. The coat is straight, medium in length, and usually described as being dense to the touch. The Golden Cocker Retriever does best in slightly warmer than usual weather. This is a gentle and playful mixed breed that will happily become play buddies with your children—just remember to make sure both parties are socialized correctly during the early days. In general, Golden Cocker Retrievers are fine around other household pets. But be sure the boundaries between the dog and existing household pets are laid down early. Ultimately, early socialization really pays off with this breed. Make sure to reward your Golden Cocker Retriever for good behavior and adhere to a proper training regimen when you bring them home to your family. However, you may want to try Golden Retriever or Cocker Spaniel breed-specific rescues, as they often care for mixes, as well. Here are some rescues you can try:. This lovable and playful dog is the perfect family dog and brings joy to any home with their cute looks and adorable nature. Because the Golden Cocker Retriever is a crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what kind of dog you are going to get — you never know what they will look like or what their temperament will really be. However, based on Golden Cocker Retrievers as we know them and taking a look at their parent breeds, we can make assumptions about this wonderful breed. Read on below to find out more about Golden Cocker Retrievers are whether they could be the right dog for you. Perfect for first time pet owners, the Golden Cocker Retriever is an active and intelligent dog, with both parents belonging to the sporting dog group classification. They are also known for being loyal and they love to play outside, too. Golden Retrievers originate from Scotland and were used as gun dogs to retrieve game that was shot down both on land and in water. Cocker Spaniels first came to the US on the Mayflower in the 17th century. They were registered in and the popularity of the Cocker Spaniel grew significantly during the s and s. The American Cocker Spaniel has a smaller prey-drive than the English Cocker Spaniel, which makes them better family pets. The origin of the Golden Cocker Retriever was not widely documented and it is thought that this breed could be a designer breed that was created in the later s and the early s. Characteristics Of The Golden Cocker Retriever As we mentioned above, because the Golden Cocker Retriever is a crossbreed, it can be difficult to know exactly what your pup might look like and what their temperament might be. However, we can guess based on past litters. Both of the parents — either a Golden Retriever or a Cocker Spaniel — can be the sire or the dam in this cross breed. This contributes to the varying size and appearance of many Golden Cocker Retrievers. Regardless of some of the finer details, this breed is known for being an intelligent and friendly breed. The litter size for a Golden Retriever mix can be anywhere between 4 to 12 puppies. This means that they are said to maintain the look of a puppy, even as they grow up. It can be difficult to know exactly when they reach their adult life, but it is estimated anywhere between months. Mental maturity can take up to three years. A Golden Cocker Retriever is normally smaller than a Golden Retriever and usually weighs around pounds and measures between inches. They are a medium sized breed and are broader than a Cocker Spaniel with a long, smooth coat, floppy ears and a head which is slightly bigger than a Spaniels. Coat The Golden Cocker Retriever coat is normally medium in length and is smooth. It will have some featured fringes around the legs, ears and stomach which will need to be brushed daily to prevent any matting. Some puppies inherit more genes from the Golden and therefore have a double coat, meaning the fur may be denser and require more thorough grooming. We will go into more detail about grooming your Golden Cocker Retriever dog later on. If the Cocker Spaniel parent is brown, black, white or merle, then this can be passed to the pup. Temperament The Golden Cocker Retriever is a loyal and loving dog and is the perfect companion. They have a natural playful instinct that makes them fun to be around, and they love to chase and run around. Both parents have a sporting background which means your Retriever will love to be outside playing with you. Because they are so friendly they can make the perfect playmate for older children, but know to gentle around younger children too. They will want to be with you at all times, so they are not the right pet to have if you are going to be out for hours at a time. They will do best in a busier household where they have people around for most of the day. Luckily, these dogs are easy to train and, most of the time, undesirable behaviors can be trained out of them. This can include barking as well as behaviors brought on by anxiety if they are left alone for too long. Lifespan The typical life expectancy of a Golden Cocker Retriever is normally between 11 to 14 years. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. Cataracts — you might suspect your dog has cataracts if they are constantly bumping into furniture. Cataracts can be cured with surgery. Hypothyroidism — this can be caused by a deficiency of the thyroid hormone and may produce signs that include infertility, obesity, mental dullness and lack of energy. It can be treated with medication. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Daily Life We have covered what the temperament and the characteristics of the Golden Cocker Retriever are and how many of their traits depend on what they inherit from their parents. Now, we can take a look at what living with this dog is like. Luckily, no matter what features your Golden Retriever Cocker Spaniel hybrid inherits from their parents, daily life with them is pretty much the same. Of course, you should always check the back of the dog food packet to confirm how much you should be feeding them based on their exact weight. Try to feed your Golden Cocker Retriever high-quality dog food two times a day. If possible, you should try to put them on food that is formulated for medium to large dog breeds, again based on their weight. It is a cross between the Golden Retriever and the Cocker Spaniel. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. We got him from some people who didn't take very good care of him. This dog is an amazing athlete and can run non stop for a long time and has powerful hind legs for jumping. He does not have the swimming ability like our 8 year old Golden Retriever, Rosie. He is the nicest dog you can ask for, he's always up to play , never bites , loves playing with other dogs , and always wants to get outside the house. Great family dog! She loves to go fishing and swimming. When I put her out in her run to play she will call me when she's ready to come in by saying 'mama. She does have some English Cocker Spaniel in her too. She is a very sweet, smart, playful puppy. She loves to carry around sticks when she is playing outside and enjoys going on a walk. She is content to sleep in her indoor doggy kennel-bed at night. I couldn't imagine a better family pet! Bred by Dakota Winds Ranch. However, they may have as much as .He's got the gentle disposition of his Golden Retriever friend and the up-beatness of a Cocker Spaniel. Her favorite food is bar-b-q and will jump off the walls until midnight! I got Tucker from a breeder. He was the only shorthaired puppy in the litter. The breeder did not know why he came out shorthaired, so a DNA test was done. His sire was, in fact, his sire. There is no reasonable explanation why he has short hair, other than he just does! He is a great little dog and a very sweet puppy. He is very gentle, loving and sweet. Hybrids When you take a golden retriever and mix it with a cocker spaniel, the outcome is a truly adorable golden cocker retriever, also known as a Dakota sport retriever or a cogol. These hybrid dogs are called forever puppies because they maintain a puppy-like look to them even when they are fully grown. The golden cocker retriever is a hybrid or designer dog intentionally created to combine the best qualities of the cocker spaniel and the golden retriever together. The golden cocker retriever maintains the look of the golden retriever in a smaller package with longer hair. The golden cocker retriever is an excellent family dog, provided you can meet its needs. Read on to find out if the golden cocker retriever is the dog for you. Parentage Of The Golden Cocker Retriever When mixing two breeds together, like the golden retriever and the cocker spaniel, there is no guarantee of exactly how each puppy will look and behave in every litter. Understanding the history and personality of both parent breeds will also give you an idea of how your golden cocker retriever will behave later on in life as it develops its personality as an adult. The Golden Retriever The golden retriever as we know it today, originated in Scotland in the mid to late s and early s. The golden retriever was bred to be a sporting dog with a soft mouth. Its job was to chase down prey, usually waterfowl, after the owner had shot one down. Once the dog located the prey, it would gently pick it up in its mouth and bring it back to the owner. The area in which they had to do the retrieving was often marshy, so the dogs were bred to have warm coats and be excellent swimmers. For a more detailed look at how the golden retriever came to be, check out our dedicated article on their history. Golden retrievers are highly loyal, dedicated, easily trainable, and loving dogs. It is important to note the golden retriever is also very high energy and requires a lot of mental and physical stimulation. The Cocker Spaniel Cocker spaniels originated in Europe as sporting and hunting dogs. They were used to flush out birds from bushes and low lying brush for the hunter to shoot them down. There are many different types of spaniels, but the cocker spaniel was so named because that specific breed specialized in hunting woodcocks. Cocker spaniels were popularized by the Disney movie Lady and the Tramp and U. The cocker spaniel is an easily trainable dog who loves spending time with the family in all activities. However, they are high energy pups who require a lot of time and effort from their owners in order to stay happy. The Golden Cocker Retriever The golden cocker retriever takes on the best of both breeds and looks a lot like a shrunken version of the golden retriever with the long floppy ears of the cocker spaniel. The golden cocker retriever is a very high energy dog and will require a lot of energy from you as well. The golden cocker retriever stands at 20 to 24 inches and weighs 30 to 45 pounds on average. This makes them a medium-sized dog. They are inquisitive dogs who love being involved with their humans and their environment. Golden cocker retrievers are great dogs to have if you have children. They love the company and energy small children bring to the home and will get along with them very well. The golden cocker retriever is an intelligent dog which will require mental as well as physical stimulation from you in order to be happy. Trainability Thanks to both of the parent dogs, the golden retriever and the cocker spaniel, the golden cocker retriever takes to training very well. They are intelligent dogs that enjoy the effort it takes to learn tricks and tasks. Training should be consistent and based on positive reinforcement as the golden cocker retriever takes harsh words and negative punishment to heart. Health Concerns Golden cocker retrievers are a mixed breed, which means they have a wider genetic pool to draw from. This means they are genetically healthier than either of their purebred parents. However, because the golden retriever and cocker spaniel share some common health concerns, they can appear in the golden cocker retriever too. Be on the lookout for: Hip dysplasia Entropion eyelid condition Hypothyroidism Taking your golden cocker retriever to the vet every year for a check up and their vaccines is incredibly important. Prevention is always better than treatment. Your vet can catch small issues developing in the early stages and provide preventative care before the problem becomes life threatening or painful for your dog. The golden cocker retriever seems like an ideal medium-sized dog for any family. However there are some care needs you need to consider to determine if this is the dog for you or not. The golden cocker retriever is an incredibly high-energy dog. They require a minimum of an hour of exercise a day, preferably split over two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. Physical exercise can take the form of play sessions with you, walks, going to the dog park, swimming time, hikes, obedience training, and playing fetch. If you have trained your golden cocker retriever well, taking them to an off-leash dog park and allowing them to run around and explore all the different sights and smells is an excellent way to stimulate them. Golden cocker retrievers need mental stimulation during the day, which is separate from their physical exercise. Toys, slow feeders , lick mats , snuffle mats , and puzzle games are all excellent options to boost their mental stimulation. The golden cocker retriever has a beautiful coat that sheds a lot thanks to the golden retriever and cocker spaniel parents. They will need to be brushed every second or third day depending on the individual dog. If your golden cocker retriever loves swimming, their coat will need to be dried and brushed after every swim. There are two different kinds of cocker spaniel , the American and the English. Both kinds can be crossed with a golden retriever to make a golden cocker retriever. The biggest difference between the two cocker spaniels is their size. The American breeders focused on producing small, sleek companion cocker spaniels, while the English breeders focused on breeding larger cocker spaniels with longer legs. Therefore, the English cocker spaniel is taller and slightly broader than the American cocker spaniel. Parent Breed. Goldadors are very social, intelligent, easy to train and are an excellent family companion. Our Goldadors can be anywhere from lbs. Country Retrievers With the many requests for Country Retrievers also known as Comfort Retrievers or Golden Cockers , we spent time researching the cross over the past 2 years. This year, in , we are excited to introduce our first Country Retriever puppies! Country Retrievers are a smaller version of the Golden Retriever, with the combined friendliness, loyalty, and sweet temperaments of both breeds. Throw in a dash of the comical, playful spirit of the Cocker Spaniel, and the Comfort Retriever is lovingly referred to as the Forever Puppy. Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever is one of the most popular family pets. They are playful but gentle with children. They get along well with other pets, and are friendly to family and strangers alike. The intelligent Golden Retriever is very versatile. They excel in obedience training. Our Golden Retrievers can weigh between 55 — 75 pounds. Cocker Spaniel The Cocker Spaniel is a very gentle, easy-going, yet lively companion. Cocker Spaniels love their people families, love to snuggle, play together, and give a good laugh with their antics. They repay the loving they receive in multiples of loyalty and affection. Our Cocker Spaniels come in a variety of colours and can weigh from pounds. Genetics play an important role in the health and longevity of your puppy, but environmental factors play a greater role. Things like over and under stimulation, exercise, quality of food, home environment, etc… greatly affect the health and lifespan of your puppy. The quality of the nutrition your puppy receives directly affects his health, so we strongly recommend that your pup is fed top quality dog food. To protect each dog from negative breeding experiences and puppy mill conditions, the signing of a non-breeding contract is required. Our entire business is made to ensure that no dog is kept in unethical, inhumane conditions, and we are careful in screening potential puppy families to ensure each puppy goes to the best possible home. Follow Us. If you love the amazing personality of a Golden Retriever and the small size and loyalty of a Cocker Spaniel, you may love a Cocker Spaniel Golden Retriever mix. What do Golden Cocker Retrievers look like? These Golden Cocker Retrievers come in several sizes, colors and looks. They come in all the same coat colors as a normal Cocker Spaniel but commonly come in white, red, golden and tan. First generation cocker golden mix dogs have more floppy ears. When breeding a second and third generation, there is usually a higher percentage of Golden Retrievers in the mix. The golden retriever mixed with cocker spaniel puppies can often be referred to as "Miniature Golden Retrievers" or "Golden Minis". These puppies can look very much like a "Mini Golden Retriever" and have many of the same personality traits. When they are puppies you can see the Cocker Spaniel showing up in their eyes. They look almost angry, but it often fades with age. Here is a male Cocker Spaniel mix at 7 weeks old and again at 3 months old. The size depends on the parents of the puppies. In a first generation cocker spaniel golden retreiver mix you need to look at the size of the Golden Retriever used. The general rule of thumb is the puppies will be in between the sizes of both parents. However every now and again we see puppies that grow up to be bigger than both parents. To get a good idea of how much the puppies will weigh as a golden cocker retriever full grown we often use this weight chart predictor from thegoodypet. It has been the most accurate we have found to predict adult weight. Many people wonder if this mixed breed is a good family dog and easy to train. Yes, a Cocker Spaniel mix with Golden Retriever can make a great family pet. The Golden Cocker mix is a loyal and smart companion. They also are dogs that are easy to potty train. Cocker Spaniel Golden Retriever mix puppies tend to be food driven so we often train with kibble instead of treats. Issues with a Golden Cocker Retriever mix? The most common problem I see in the Cocker Spaniel Golden mix is some litters are more mouthy. They nip at anything moving which sometimes includes hands. Most are not, but it does happen every now and again. Remember that Cocker Spaniels were originally bred to be working dogs that kept livestock together by nipping at their heels. They also love to chase moving objects which is fantastic if you like playing fetch with your puppy but can scare children that don't know how to behave around a puppy. Two purebred parents will have more of a Cocker Spaniel look. Make sure to ask what they expect the full grown Golden Cocker Retriever to weigh. It will only be an estimate and there are no guarantees but it is good to get an idea. Also ask what kind of health testing was done on the parents of the litter. We normally have Cocker Golden Retriever mix puppies available or coming soon. Check out our puppies HERE or fill out the form below and we will get back to you. First Name.

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. 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. 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.

By Emily A. Fassbaugh, DVM on Oct. They can determine if your dog needs to be professionally examined and treated. Here are some common dog eye problems and signs to look for. Common Dog Eye Problems Dog Eye Infections Dog eye infections can affect the eyelid, the conjunctiva pink part inside the eye , or the eye itself. They can be caused by bacteria, viruses, or fungus. Take your dog to the vet if you notice any of these signs: Yellow, green, or red drainage from the eyes Swelling, crusting, and hair loss on the eyelids Very red and swollen conjunctiva and whites of the eyes Your dog squinting or holding their eyes closed Your veterinarian may do an eye stain to check for injury to the cornea. The treatment involves giving your dog eye drops to heal the infection and relieve inflammation. If there is an infection of the eyelid, your veterinarian may also prescribe oral antibiotics. It occurs most often in brachycephalic flat-faced dogs, such as English Bulldogs and Pugs , and in giant dog breeds with droopy eyelids, such as Bullmastiffs and Newfoundlands , but it can happen to any dog. Always take your dog to the vet if you suspect they have cherry eye. When cherry eye in dogs is mild, an anti-inflammatory eye drop can occasionally cause the tear gland to return to its normal position. However, most of the time, surgery is required to replace the tear gland behind the third eyelid. Unfortunately, cherry eye can come back after a dog has surgery. Glaucoma in Dogs Glaucoma in dogs is increased pressure in the eye. Normally, fluid flows in and out of the eye to maintain pressure. Early signs of glaucoma in dogs include eye pain or redness and visible vessels on the whites of the eye. Early glaucoma is treated with medication to decrease fluid production in the eye and allow for better drainage of fluid, reducing the pressure. If the medication cannot control the eye pressure and the pain, your veterinarian may recommend removal of the eye, also called enucleation. This may sound extreme, but dogs can still have a great quality of life without the affected eye. To help avoid eye loss, take your dog to the vet as soon as possible if you notice any of the signs of glaucoma. You will see these symptoms: Green or yellow discharge from the eye Squinting or holding the eye closed Rubbing the eye because it is painful or itchy The whites of the eye will be red or bloodshot, but the cornea will typically be clear Conjunctivitis in dogs is triggered often by an allergy or, rarely, a virus. It is treated with a bacterial eye drop or ointment, and sometimes, a steroid is used to reduce inflammation. It usually clears up within a week. Take your dog to the vet so they can be evaluated and prescribed the appropriate treatment. Ectropion in Dogs Ectropion is a condition where the bottom eyelid droops or folds outward, away from the eye. Some breeds of dog can naturally have mild ectropion, including Bullmastiffs , Bassett Hounds , Bloodhounds , Retrievers, Bulldogs, and Spaniels. It is often not a problem, but it can result in chronic inflammation, dry eye, and eye infection in some dogs, so take your dog to the vet if they are exhibiting any of these signs. Surgery can correct ectropion in dogs. Entropion in Dogs Entropion is a condition of the eyelid that causes it to roll inward. It can affect both the upper and lower eyelids. In chronic cases, it can cause permanent damage to the cornea, resulting in loss of vision. Entropion in dogs can be fixed with surgery. Visit your vet to determine the best option for your dog. Cataracts in Dogs In dogs with cataracts , the central part of their eye appears cloudy because the lens has lost transparency. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes. Cataracts can be inherited or caused by other diseases. One cause of cataracts is diabetes, as the excess glucose causes the lens to swell. The lens can eventually rupture and cause uveitis, or severe inflammation in the eye. A dog can also develop cataracts as a part of normal aging. Additionally, they can form because of inflammation or infection inside the eye. Depending on the size and the severity of the cataract, some dogs may lose significant vision and become blind. See your vet to have the underlying cause of the cataract identified so your dog can be treated accordingly. In some breeds of dogs, such as Pugs and Boston Terriers , strabismus is congenital and common; this does not require treatment. However, if a lazy eye comes on suddenly, always seek veterinary assistance. A sudden lazy eye in dogs can signal a neurological problem that affects the balance system, or it could be caused by a mass in the ring of bone surrounding the eye. Treating lazy eye in dogs relies on addressing the underlying cause. A dog with a corneal ulcer will have cloudiness in the front of the eye. There may be green, yellow, or clear discharge. Corneal ulcers in dogs can be caused by an injury or infection, or they can result from inflammation of the cornea due to chronic dry eye. Corneal ulcers are very painful, so the dog usually squints the eye closed and may rub at it. Seek treatment from the vet as soon as possible to help make your dog more comfortable. Treatment involves giving your dog an antibiotic eye drop and using an Elizabethan collar to prevent your dog from rubbing their eye, causing further damage. Some dogs require surgery to heal the ulcer. It contains the cells, called rods and cones, that absorb light signals to send to the brain. The retina is what ultimately allows all mammals to see. All diseases of the retina cause blindness. There are inherited retinal diseases seen in Irish Setters , Briards , and the Papillon. Other causes of retinal diseases in dogs include: High blood pressure. Retinal Dysplasia Entropion By familiarizing yourself with these conditions, their symptoms, and their treatment options, you can prepare yourself for any doggie health emergencies. After all, part of being a pet parent is understanding that sometimes our animals get sick. It can present itself early on during puppyhood or become more evident with age. Labs are just one of many dog breeds affected by this condition. This type of atrophy can lead to total blindness. PRA is a degenerative illness, meaning it tends to become more debilitating over time. However, by recognizing the symptoms and taking early action, pet parents can minimize the adverse effects of PRA. Common Symptoms Unfortunately, some of the most common symptoms of PRA only occur after many retinal cells have already decayed. This means that your dog may already be partially blind by the time they start exhibiting noticeable symptoms. Still, dogs that seem uncoordinated or that often bump into objects may be exhibiting early signs of this condition. You may also notice that your Labrador Retriever struggles to find their toys or locate the entrance to your home. Dogs that generally struggle with their vision may have PRA, but the only way to know for sure is to take your pup to the vet for diagnostic tests. High-quality breeders regularly perform genetic testing on their breeding pairs to ensure healthy litters. Purchasing a pup from a disreputable or inexperienced breeder can result in puppies with PRA. If you are getting your dog from a breeder, you have the right to ask for all their health forms related to the parents and even past litters. They should be able to provide you with proof that the dogs are as healthy as possible. If you suspect that your dog may have PRA, your vet will perform a standard series of eye tests. If they cannot rule out PRA, they may recommend genetic testing to confirm or deny the diagnosis. Sadly, there are few ways to reverse or stop the damage that PRA causes. Still, this condition is not painful. Pet owners can implement helpful tools, introduce new training tasks, and practice patience. This may mean introducing specific sound cues for everyday tasks, reducing home layout changes, and adding protective gates around your home or swimming pool. Overall, the best possible treatment for dogs with PRA is thoughtfulness and affection. Many times, a blocked or inactive tear duct is to blame for this condition. Some breeds are prone to inherited KCS as their genes lack the information to help their bodies generate and maintain healthy tear ducts. However, an infected third eye gland can also cause KCS. Keeping your dog in an unclean kennel or boarding facility can result in KCS. With that in mind, proper hygiene and grooming are two ways that owners can prevent infectious KCS. However, inheritable forms are naturally far more challenging to combat. Common Symptoms When your vet checks for signs and symptoms of KCS, they tend to look for eye irritation and redness, as well as pus-like discharge near the corners of the eyes. Unlike some other eye problems, KCS is almost always present in both eyes at the same time. Still, to make an accurate diagnosis, your vet may perform several minor procedures. They might take a small tissue sample and have it analyzed for the presence of tear film, or they may utilize Schirmer Tear Test strips. Pet parents can also purchase and use Schirmer Tear Test strips to test for eye dryness. Not only are usage instructions included with every order, but each envelope features an easy-to-read scale. The majority of dogs with KCS need special eye drops to keep their eyes healthy. Pups with congenital KCS will likely need daily drops for the whole of their lives. However, dogs with an acute, infectious case of dry eye may be able to wean off eye drops once their infection has cleared up. Notably, this condition may not affect labs as often as it affects other breeds, particularly smaller ones. Breeds such as the Boston terrier and English springer spaniel tend to develop or inherit KCS far more than their larger labrador retriever relatives. Cataracts are far more noticeable than many other eye problems. In turn, the retina may struggle to process the light coming into the eye, resulting in partial or complete blindness. This condition often occurs during old age, but previous eye injuries and certain illnesses can increase cataract development. Additionally, some genetic markers may influence the onset of cataracts. The HSF4 gene seems to be one of the most influential markers of canine cataracts. However, testing for this gene can be challenging and expensive. Still, in most cases, the symptoms of cataracts are evident. Common Symptoms As mentioned above, cataracts are relatively easy to diagnose. In addition, unlike other forms of eye disease, cataracts are fairly noticeable. However, catching cataract formation during its early stages could help reduce overall treatment times and costs. Consequently, pet parents should watch for any discoloration in the eye , as well as any whitish change around the pupil. Conferring with a vet can help you determine whether your labrador retriever has cataracts. Diagnosis and Treatment Like many other types of labrador retriever eye problems, one of the best treatment methods for cataracts is prevention. Adopting a dog from a reputable breeder that screens for genetic diseases and abnormalities is crucial. However, owners of labs that are currently developing cataracts should seek veterinary counsel. In some cases, canine cataract surgery may also be an option. Vets often perform a physical examination to check for cataracts. Retinal Dysplasia One of the more common inherited eye problems that labrador retrievers develop is retinal dysplasia RD. While breeders can test for RD, helping prevent its spread to future generations, some breeders opt-out of genetic testing. This abnormal shape or design can result in partial blindness or vision difficulties. In many cases, a dog with RD will have strange folds throughout their retina. While many cases are mild and relatively treatable, severe cases can lead to total retinal detachment. When this happens, your lab will go entirely blind. That said, some dogs are born with a form of RD that disappears with time. If puppies fall ill while still in the womb, they may be more prone to developing RD. Visiting your vet is the best way to diagnose and treat RD. Consistent check-ups can help you determine the type of RD your labrador retriever has and how best to treat it. Generally, pet parents may struggle to identify the earliest symptoms of RD. A vet can use precise medical instruments to test for eye conditions, including RD. Depending on their age and the severity of their particular condition, these dogs may already be partially or totally blind. Be sure to take note of any clumsiness or confusion your dog exhibits. Walking into walls, getting lost, or bumping into new pieces of furniture are all signs of vision problems. That said, most vets will use an ophthalmoscope to check for retinal folds and attachments. Unfortunately, retinal dysplasia is not treatable, so if your labrador retriever is diagnosed with severe RD, the first course of action should be to have them spayed or neutered. Doing this will help future puppies from inheriting the condition. Secondly, you should do everything you can to ensure your dog has a happy and healthy life. For example, you may want to set up protective gates around your house, especially if you live in a multi-story dwelling. Entropion Entropion might be the most common eye problem that plagues labrador retrievers. Entropion is when the upper or lower eyelids roll inward toward the eye. Additionally, tiny particles of dust or dirt can become trapped between the eyelid and eye surface, causing pain and discomfort. Labrador retrievers may be prone to developing a case of entropion due to excess skin around the eyes. Older dogs may be slightly more at risk of developing this condition, as the skin around the eyes occasionally forms small folds. Left untreated, entropion can result in long-lasting vision damage. This often means pawing at the affected eye or repeatedly rubbing it against surfaces. Unfortunately, these methods typically only add to the problem. Dogs with entropion may also produce an excessive amount of tears and appear to be crying. In addition, their eyes may be swollen, red, and irritated. Additionally, some dogs squint and repeatedly blink when suffering from entropion. This is similar to how you might react if you got a small piece of sand in your eye. Early treatment often results in few veterinary costs, as mild acute cases might only require a few days worth of lubricating eye drops. Sadly, deciding to wait for veterinary care could cause your dog lasting pain and vision loss. Diagnosis and Treatment Vets can spot entropion from a mile away. The more challenging aspect of this condition is determining the level of damage caused to the cornea. Severe, long-term cases may require surgery, removing some excess skin around the eye, much like an eye lift. The best time to visit your vet is pretty much any time! Conclusion Labrador retrievers may inherit specific eye problems, including progressive retinal atrophy PRA and retinal dysplasia. Older dogs also have a relatively high risk of developing cataracts as they enter their senior years. Dogs with malformed or injured eyelids can also suffer from entropion. That said, some conditions are hereditary, making them challenging to prevent. Still, there are helpful treatment options that can help labrador retrievers with eye problems enjoy a happier, more comfortable life. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. After all, vision is central to much of our interaction with the world. We also would hate to see this horrible event happen to our furry friends. Since dogs also have sharper hearing and smell than humans, they are actually able to adapt to blindness better than their owners. The retinal tissue, as the name suggests, eventually atrophies until the entire retina is dead and the dog is unable to see. If you remember from biology class, the retina, which is found at the back of the eye, is divided into rods and cones. These rods and cones turn visual stimulation into electrical impulses that the brain reads as sight. Rods are responsible for night and black and white vision, and cones are responsible for color. Contrary to popular belief, dogs actually can see some color, just not at the level of humans. PRA slowly attacks the rods of the eye, killing them and causing the retina to degenerate. However, it is also seen in puppies and older dogs. Unfortunately, the inevitable result is often total blindness for the dog. PRA is found in many different types of dogs, but Labrador Retrievers are prone to this disorder identified in certain genetic markers associated with the breed. Other breeds plagued by the disease include collies, Irish setters, miniature poodles, Cocker Spaniels, Briards, Mastiffs, Samoyeds and Siberian Huskies. Labs are more prone to a subset of PRA called central progressive retinal atrophy, which means they initially lose their central vision, but can often keep their peripheral vision for years before it finally fades away. There is a marked faulty development in a group of cells in the retina, which worsens over time and eventually spreads to the rest of the rods. If your Labrador develops PRA, you need to inform your breeder immediately to ensure they change their breeding protocol. Additionally, all of the siblings of the dog with PRA should not be bred. Other Causes of PRA While genetic deformities in the eye are the main reason dogs develop this disease, there are additional causes for progressive blindness due to the retina slowly dying. Long-term glaucoma, scarring and inflammation of the retina, or separation of the retina due to trauma. Metabolic issues from insufficient or excessive amounts of enzymes. Cancer from other areas of the body that spreads to the retina. Nutritional deficiencies: specifically lack of Vitamin A or E. Retinal infections that spread from other parts of the body. Adverse reactions to specific drugs or toxins. Dogs are actually very good at hiding their blindness and sharpening their other senses to adapt. Because of the slow progression of PRA, dogs have ample time to learn to rely more on their hearing, smell, memory of their surroundings and touch. PRA is usually painless, which means your dog just quietly learns how to get around in other ways as their visual world slowly fades away. There are usually no obvious outward signs around the eye such as squinting, redness or excessive tearing. Usually, the first signs that your dog is developing PRA is night blindness, which then progresses to total blindness even in the day. You may notice your dog is more reluctant to run the entire yard at night, and instead stays within the glow of the porch light. They may be afraid to go into a dark room, but will happily go into the room when you turn on the light. As the disease continues to advance, you may start to see changes in the eyes. The dogs pupils may be dilated or have a slow response to light. The best way to catch PRA early is with routine eye examinations from a veterinarian. An ophthalmologist can view the retina with an instrument called an indirect ophthalmoscope. With this tool, they will be able to see changes in the blood flow to the retina, the optic nerve and the tapetum. Another way to diagnose PRA is by electroretinography. This test measures the electrical impulses produced by the retina, similar to the way an ECG test measures the beat of the heart. Electroretinography is widely regarded as the best way to determine a definitive diagnosis. Since there are some nutritional components to this disease, you need to make sure you are feeding your pup the highest quality food to give them everything they need for proper eye development. Some vets promote certain antioxidant therapies to slow the progression of PRA, but as of yet there is no confirmed treatment or cure. Some dogs do develop cataracts in the later stages of PRA. Even if the cataract is removed, the true cause of the blindness is in the damaged retina. However, while blindness can often be traumatic for the owners, most dogs actually do just fine sharpening their other senses to still get around easily without additional stress. Conclusion Since this disease progresses slowly and is usually painless, the gradual loss of vision gives the dogs adequate time to learn to rely on their other senses and map out their surroundings. While it may be tempting to humanize this condition, dogs have much better senses of hearing and smell than we do. Losing their vision is usually not a traumatic experience as long as their surroundings remain predictable and they are with their loved ones. They need your guidance and love, not your pity and sadness. With a bit of research, owners can learn how to help blind dogs transition into a world where they rely on their other senses to lead happy, healthy lives. Disclaimer All content on this site is provided for informational and entertainment purposes only. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative for seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. But I recently got a severe shock when I took my big yellow lab to visit my parents. This dog has the best personality in regards to loving people. He is totally devoted to me. My father is 92 and failing health leaves him very seddentary. But when I took him on the four hour trip to go there, I found out my dog is mostly blind. He is only four and a half, and is seemingly very healthy. When we got to there house He was so terrified, all he would do in crouch down on the floor and hold on for dear life. I could barely get him to go from the bedroom to the kitchen. .He was obviously not misbehaving, it was totally due to fear. Apparently, he has his own seeing eye dog. Breeders who take advantage of genetic testing and annual eye examinations are helping to prevent eye diseases. The most common eye disease in Labradors is a late-onset form of progressive retinal atrophy known as rod-cone degeneration prcd-PRA. Before the discovery of the gene mutation for prcd-PRA in , breeders often bred carriers and affected dogs without realizing they were passing the disease onto future generations. The development of the genetic test has helped to advance breeders' ability to test their dogs and make responsible breeding decisions. We never have to eliminate a dog solely based on its PRA status. The goal is not to eliminate carriers but to eliminate affected dogs. The chances are very high the pups will go blind before they are 10, and PRA is a completely preventable disease. Though the condition is considered rare, with around 3 percent of Labradors identified as carriers, it is devastating to those whose dogs develop the disease. Retinal dysplasia encompasses a spectrum of severities, ranging from focal or multifocal retinal folds to geographic retinal dysplasia and retinal detachment. Retinal folds typically are considered benign and have no significance unless they are associated with oculoskeletal dysplasia. These eye diseases, as well as others for which there are no genetic tests, prompted the Labrador Retriever Club to recommend annual eye examinations by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists and testing for inherited eye diseases for dogs that are part of a breeding program. Puppies should have eye examinations around 6 to 8 weeks of age before they are sold to new owners to check for retinal folds and the possibility of oculoskeletal dysplasia. Eye examinations, in which results are registered through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals Eye Certification Registry or Canine Eye Registration Foundation, are among the required tests for Labradors to receive health clearances via Canine Health Information Center certification. The retina, located at the back of the eye, takes the light gathered and focused by the other eye structures and converts it into electrical nerve signals to send it to the optic nerve and then the brain for interpretation. Besides Labrador Retrievers, the recessive gene mutation occurs in more than 20 breeds. Experts say signs of the disease are visible by physical eye examination when dogs are between 3 and 6 years of age. Owners may initially notice their dogs having diminished sight in the evening. In prcd-PRA, retinal receptor cells develop and function normally in early life, but at some point in mid to later life, they degenerate and die. There are are two types of receptor cells: rods and cones. The rods, which are responsible for vision in low light levels, die first. Thus, affected dogs may have difficulty seeing in dim light. The cones, which are more important for detail, movement and color vision, follow. A dog eventually loses vision in bright light until becoming completely blind. Physical signs of prcd-PRA are determined by ophthalmoscopy, and electrical signs are detected by electroretinography. Both appear much earlier than behavioral signs. Owners may notice that their dog's eyes glow. This occurs as the receptor cells die, leaving the retina thinner and thus allowing the shiny tapetum behind it to show through more. In addition, the pupil compensates for the lack of light reception by opening up wider. The added effect of the wider pupil and brighter tapetum makes the dog's eyes glow to the point that owners may be the first to notice something different. More often, however, it is a routine eye examination that leads to discovery of the problem. The good news is that DNA testing allows identification of carriers and affected and normal dogs. Helmers recalls having all the dogs in her kennel tested when the test was first offered. When the results showed two were affected, I spayed them and found good homes for them. I wanted them to be in good pet homes if and when they started to go blind. The disease is considered the canine version of retinitis pigmentosa in humans, which has more than genetic mutations, all resulting in identical clinical signs. We are interested in any outliers, such as prcd-affected Labradors that show clinical retinal degeneration by 3 years of age or that, conversely, show no clinical signs of retinal degeneration after around 9 years of age. These outliers will hopefully point us to modifiers that affect retinal degeneration and help us learn more about therapy for treating retinal diseases in dogs and humans. Angie was born blind due to the hereditary disease. Today, one would not suspect the 8-year-old is blind. Walsh is past president of LABMED, an organization that has helped fund and care for 1, rescued Labradors and Labrador mixed breeds since it was founded in .The Walshes couldn't help but fall in love with the blind, bowlegged puppy. She can figure out her surroundings in a matter of minutes and is a fearless explorer. We forget she's blind because she rarely bumps into anything. The retinal layer may fold over and prevent normal focusing. A few small folds seldom cause a change in vision, but larger areas may cause blind spots. Folds are noticeable in puppies from 8 to 16 weeks of age. Some folds may disappear in adulthood. The mode of inheritance for most retinal folds is not well characterized. Research by Greg Acland, D. Since OptiGen began offering the genetic test, more than 1, Labradors have been tested for the eye disease. OSD carriers, which inherit one copy of the mutated gene, often have significant retinal dysplasia, although silent carriers without retinal folds are possible too. Some dogs with retinal folds have the benign type and are not susceptible to OSD; however, without genetic testing for OSD, they do not pass an eye examination and are not eligible for CHIC certification. Their status changes if the owner shows test results indicating the dog is not a carrier for the OSD mutation. Annual eye examinations are the best way to identify affected dogs for earlier treatment and to avoid using them in breeding programs. Among the diseases without DNA tests is entropion, an eye disorder in which the eyelid and eyelashes roll inward in an abnormal inversion. Most cases are due to a dog's facial and eyelid conformation. Signs include excessive tearing, squinting, redness and facial rubbing. In severe cases, irritation of the cornea may produce conjunctivitis, keratitis or ulceration. Surgery, which can be expensive, corrects the disorder. I know dogs that had entropion surgery yet ended up in a breeding program, which transmits the disease to the next generation. Congenital cataracts are present at birth, whereas juvenile cataracts occur in dogs under 6 and senile cataracts in dogs older than 6. Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness in dogs and humans. About breeds are affected by hereditary forms, and some breeds may develop more than one form. Little is known about the genetics of cataracts, a condition in which the clear lens of the eye used for focusing develops cloudy spots that gradually inhibit light from reaching the retina. The opacity inhibits the lens from focusing light onto the retina. As the lens gets cloudier, the light reaching the retina is reduced until a dog eventually becomes blind. Labradors are among the breeds prone to a type of juvenile cataract that forms under the lens capsule, or the sac-like covering of the lens, called posterior polar subcapsular cataracts PPSC. Fortunately, the PPSC type progresses slowly and seldom interferes with vision. Surgery to remove cataracts in dogs is almost identical to cataract surgery in humans. Advances in microsurgery make the procedure appropriate for younger, healthy dogs, resulting in more retained vision and greater success. Ophthalmologists who specialize in this surgery can take the lens out of the eye and replace it with an artificial lens, restoring vision effectively. Concerns about these diseases, plus others, prompt breeders to vigilantly have annual eye examinations and genetic testing in their breeding dogs. This practice lies at the crux of reducing eye diseases in Labrador Retrievers. Purina appreciates the support of the Labrador Retriever Club Inc. Test results from examinations by board-certified veterinary ophthalmologists will be entered in the registry and become part of the clinical database. Dogs with normal results will receive OFA eye certification numbers valid for one year. The addition of eye examination results in the OFA database makes OFA the most complete resource of canine health screening results in the world. OFA will share a percentage of its registration fees with ACVO Vision for Animals Foundation to support research leading to elimination of ocular diseases causing vision loss and suffering in animals. For information, visit the OFA website at: www. Written By Remi Audette Vision is precious to dogs just like it is to people. Unfortunately, like us, dogs can experience eye issues that affect their vision. Here are 8 common dog eye problems you should be aware of: Conjunctivitis One of the most common eye infections in dogs is conjunctivitis, also known as pink eye. Symptoms of conjunctivitis in dogs are similar to humans and include redness, inflammation and eye discharge. It can be caused by a bacterial or viral infection or an allergic reaction to smoke, pollen, perfume or other irritants. Conjunctivitis can be highly contagious to humans, so you should visit your vet for treatment options. Until it clears up, limit contact with your dog and wash your hands regularly. Cherry Eye Dogs have three eyelids, with the third located in the inner corner of their eye. Cherry eye occurs when this third eyelid prolapses out after it becomes inflamed, resembling a red cherry. With puppies under the age of one and certain dog breeds being most susceptible. Surgery is usually needed to repair cherry eye in dogs, so it is important to consult your vet. Cataracts Cataracts are clouding of the eye lens, which is progressively more common as dogs get older. Cataracts may also make the eye more prone to developing inflammation and conditions like glaucoma. Surgery is the only long-term treatment, which involves your vet removing the damaged lens and replacing it with an artificial one. Symptoms of glaucoma in dogs include pain, redness, cloudiness, eye tearing or bulging and dilated pupils. Causes range from eye inflammation, tumours or trauma. .This can lead to eye irritation, infection or other damage, including corneal scarring. Symptoms of entropion include redness, squinting and excessive tearing. Entropion is usually caused by genetics and is more common in certain breeds, especially short-nosed and giant breeds. Contact your vet if you suspect your dog has entropion, and they will treat it using antibiotics, artificial tears, temporary stitches, contact lenses to protect the cornea or entropion surgery. It is also called keratoconjunctivitis sicca, and symptoms include redness, squinting, excessive blinking, gunky discharge and eye pawing. Ensure you consult your vet if you notice these signs, as dry eye in dogs can result in corneal ulcers. They may suggest using artificial tears and immunomodulating drops. These ulcers can be caused by trauma or chronic dry eyes. If not properly treated, dog corneal ulcers can worsen and get bigger. Visit your vet so they can determine the necessary treatment, which may include ointment, antibiotic drops or eye surgery. Keep an eye out for any symptoms of eye problems in your dog and contact your vet if you notice any issues. If you suspect that your dog has eye problems, give us a call at 03 to get advice from one of our experienced vets. Cherry eye Entropion So what exactly are these issues and what should you do about them? Read on to find out. Corneal Damage There are plenty of ways your dog can injure their eyes and damage the cornea. They could scratch their eye with their nails trying to satisfy an itch. They might get poked by a branch as they are running past the bushes. Or they could get a bit of dirt or debris in them while playing outside. The signs of corneal damage can include redness and excessive tearing. You may also notice your dog pawing at the eye since it can be irritating and painful. If you suspect your dog has an eye injury, you should have a veterinarian take a look. They can assess the extent of the damage and recommend treatment, which could include antibiotic drops to help avoid infection. Dry Eye Keratoconjunctivitis Sicca Keratoconjunctivitis sicca is quite a mouthful so we'll stick to calling it dry eye. This condition occurs when a dog's tear glands aren't producing enough tears to properly lubricate and clean the eye of dust and other debris. Dry eye can result in scratches, ulcers, and other problems with the eyes. Signs of dry eye can include redness, squinting, blinking, and pawing at the eye. Talk to your veterinarian if you suspect your dog has dry eye. They may recommend applying sterile saline or artificial tears to your dog's eyes to help alleviate the problem. Pink Eye Conjunctivitis Like people, dogs can get pink eye with those familiar symptoms, including redness, inflammation, and gooey eye discharge. Pink eye can be caused by a viral or bacterial infection. If it's bacterial, your dog will need an antibiotic eye solution to help clear it up. Pink eye can also be brought on by an allergic reaction or if something gets in your dog's eye. If your dog is allergic to something like a particular scent or cigarette smoke, you can try to keep them away from the irritant. In the case of outdoor allergies or hay fever, you can ask your veterinarian about using a saline solution or artificial tears to flush irritants from your dog's eyes when they come back inside. Eyelid Mass If you notice a bump on or at the edge of your dog's eyelid, you should have it checked out by your veterinarian. Fortunately, these masses are often not cancerous. They can be caused by issues including a cyst or benign tumor. Your veterinarian can help determine if the mass is cancerous and whether or not it requires treatment such as surgical removal. Cataracts If you notice that your dog's eyes are getting white or cloudy, cataracts may be to blame. This condition tends to show up in dogs as they get older, much like it does for people. Cataracts can also be a sign of an underlying illness, such as diabetes. Contact your veterinarian if you start to notice signs of cataracts in your dog's eyes. Glaucoma Glaucoma happens when fluid in the eye does not drain properly and causes pressure inside the eyeball. Symptoms can include redness, tearing, cloudiness, dilated pupils, and bulging of the eye. It can be painful and eventually result in blindness. Any dog can have glaucoma, but it is more prevalent in certain breeds including Cocker Spaniels, Poodles, and Chow Chows. Medications to control pain, decrease fluid production, and increase drainage can be helpful. In more severe cases, surgery may be needed. Cherry Eye Did you know dogs have three eyelids? The third one is normally hidden away in the inner corner of the eyelid. However, if the ligaments that hold it in place weaken, it can stick out like a red cherry from the corner of your dog's eye. This condition typically requires surgery to repair. Entropion Entropion is a hereditary eyelid abnormality that causes the eyelid to fold inward. When this happens, the eyelashes or hairs on the outside of the eyelid can rub against the cornea resulting in irritation and damage to the eye. It can also cause corneal scarring, which can interfere with your dog's vision. Signs of entropion can include squinting and excessive tearing. Healthy Eye Care for Dogs While you can't always prevent a dog eye problem, there are things you can do to help keep your pup's eyes healthy and injury-free. Schedule those check-ups — Routine wellness exams can help your veterinarian detect eye problems in the early stages even before you might notice them. Clean them gently — When you give your dog a bath , you can use a cotton ball or soft cloth to gently clean around they eyes. Wipe outward from the corner and be careful not to scratch the eye. If your dog has tear staining, which causes dark spotting in the fur around the eyes, you may need to clean them more often. Clip their nails — This can help prevent your dog from injuring their eye if they paw at their face. If you're worried about cutting your dog's nails on your own, ask your veterinarian or groomer to show you how or do it for you. Trim their hair — When you groom your dog , make sure the fur near their eyes isn't so long that it irritates them. Close windows when driving — You should never let your dog hang their head out the window of a moving car no matter how much they love it. You should also close your windows when your dog is in the car. Bugs, dirt, or other debris could fly in through the open window and harm your dog's eyes. If something does happen to your dog's eyes, a pet health insurance plan can help cover the costs of care. Get a quote for your dog. Does My Dog Have Asthma? If your dog is coughing, wheezing, and struggling to breathe, they may have asthma. To help keep your pup healthy, read up on preventive measures, symptoms, and treatment options. Email Your pet wants you to read our newsletter. Then give them a treat. Sign up for product updates, offers, and learn more about The Wildest, and other Mars Petcare brands. Must be over 16 years to sign up. I'm In See our privacy statement to find out how we collect and use your data, to contact us with privacy questions or to exercise your personal data rights. It could be something more than cuteness, though. Eye problems in dogs are no joke — dogs can suffer from a host of health conditions including glaucoma, conjunctivitis, dry eyes, cataracts and more. Light enters through the pupil, and the iris controls the amount of light allowed in. Light then passes through the cornea and lens, which focus the light on the retina, a layer containing color-sensitive cones and motion- and light-sensitive rods, which convert light into electrical signals. The cones and rods send these signals via the optic nerve to the brain, which constructs an image from them. Dogs have only two types of cones, compared with the three types in human eyes. Dog eyes also contain structures not found in a camera, such as the gel-like vitreous humor that fills the eyeball and gives it shape. Canine eyes are different than human eyes in that they have a third eyelid called the nictitating membrane, a thin whitish-pink tissue that protects the eye. The visual streak is a horizontal band in the retina right above the optic nerve; this area has the highest concentration of rods and cones, and vision is sharpest here. The visual streak varies greatly among breeds, and studies suggest that different breeds see the world differently. In dogs with long heads like wolves, the streak is wide, with the nerves evenly distributed. Even within breeds, the visual streak can vary from type to type. How Well Do Dogs See? All of these features equip a dog to be a good hunter under various light conditions. A rod-dense retina also makes dogs excellent at detecting motion and shapes. When a wide field of vision combines with a wide visual streak, as in a German Shepherd, a dog can see the whole horizon at once instead of having to scan the eyes back and forth as humans do. Short-nosed dogs, with their human-like area centralis, do appear to see well up close. Overall vision is also less sharp. Note: Some dog breeds are more prone to eye problems than others, and a mixed-breed with one of those types in the mix could also be affected. Conjunctivitis in Dogs Conjunctivitis is a condition in which the lining of the eyelids and the front of the sclera the white of the eye become inflamed. Treatment depends on the cause. Dry Eye in Dogs Dry Eye is when not enough tears are produced to keep the eyes properly lubricated. Small, flat-faced dogs sometimes have eyes that bulge so much that their eyelids cannot close, which makes the surface of the eyes to dry out. Dry eye may also result from an immune system reaction, an injury or a drug side effect. Dryness can be a serious problem for dogs because dry eyes are easily irritated and may develop conjunctivitis or corneal ulcers. If the cause is known, the veterinarian treats that as well. Most ulcers are caused by injuries, and treatment often involves antibiotics. Small dog breeds with very short noses and big eyeballs are more prone to eye injuries, says Dr. Samuel J. Most dogs with cataracts inherited the tendency to develop them. Diabetes , injuries, poor diet and aging can also lead to cataracts. Surgery is available to treat dogs with cataracts. Removing the lens allows light to again enter the eye. For best post-surgery vision, the natural lens is usually replaced by a plastic lens. Glaucoma In Dogs Glaucoma is the elevated pressure of the fluid inside the eyeball caused by fluid draining more slowly than it is produced. Dogs with glaucoma can experience damage to the retina or optic nerve. Most often, dogs get glaucoma because they inherited an eye structure that leads to poor drainage. Primary glaucoma has no obvious cause, and it affects both eyes although one eye may develop glaucoma earlier than the other. Secondary glaucoma is glaucoma that is caused by a dislocated lens, injury, tumor or other problem that decreases fluid drainage in the eye; it may affect just one eye. Glaucoma treatments include surgery, pills, eye drops or rarely removal of the eyeball. Although PRA strikes more than breeds of dogs, different genes are responsible. Therefore, breeds differ in the age at which the condition appears, how fast the condition progresses, and the ratio of males to females among affected dogs. Genetic tests for PRA are available for several breeds. Other retinal problems include detachment of the retina from the back of the eye, inflammation and abnormal development. Causes include infection and injury. Some retinal disorders have no treatment, while others can be helped by surgery or treatment of the cause. Small dogs may be more prone to retinal detachment. According to Dr. Vainisi, several small breeds of dogs, including Boston Terriers, Jack Russell Terriers and Shih Tzus, love to pick up toys and shake them hard. A dog with eye or vision problems may paw at or scratch their eye, squint, bump into things, become afraid of the dark, or be frightened in situations that did not frighten them before. The nictitating membrane may partially cover the eye. If your dog seems to have an eye problem, take them to the veterinarian right away. Your vet may have the knowledge and equipment to diagnose and treat the problem immediately; if not, they may refer your dog to a veterinary ophthalmologist, a specialist in animal eyes and their disorders. Only about veterinarians in the United States have board certification from the American College of Veterinary Ophthalmologists. As a result, if your dog needs a veterinary ophthalmologist, you may need to travel to see one. Some, but not all, veterinary ophthalmologists see dogs only by referral. The bottom line: If your dog has an eye issue, make an appointment with your vet right away. Related articles. Labrador Retrievers Carl Palazzolo T Labrador Retrievers are one of the most popular breeds we care for at our hospital. They are predisposed to certain diseases though, so careful observation of your pets daily routine is important. Any significant change in this routine is cause for an examination. Our web site in the Diseases Section has detailed information on many of the diseases they are prone to. Labrador Retrievers are susceptible to hip dysplasia , a disease characterized by malformation in the hip socket, which eventually causes arthritis. The symptoms of this disease can vary, from a pet that is just not as active as it should be, to a dog that can barely get up after laying down. This breed also gets joint problems in other bones, particularly to the elbow joint and shoulder joint. Problems here are usually manifested by limping in the front legs. A physical exam and x-rays will help make the diagnosis. If your young lab seems lethargic, disoriented, or just not with it, especially after eating, it might have a liver disease called a portosystemic shunt. Unfortunately, the also can get a malignant cancer of the lymph nodes called lymphosarcoma. Please refer to our Learning Center to learn how to perform a lymph node exam. One of our doctors will help you find them. Active labs that run and jump vigorously are prone to tearing a ligament in their knee call the cranial cruciate ligament. This occurs where there is a twisting or tweaking motion. Symptoms range from a subtle lameness to complete limping. Labradors are also at risk for several eye problems including PRA Progressive Retinal Atrophy , cataracts, and retinal dysplasia. All of these eye problems manifest themselves by a loss of vision. If we suspect one of these problems we will refer you to our ophthalmologist. Hereditary cataracts can also occur. Labrador Retrievers can also have an inherited deficiency in one of the clotting factors of the blood. Dogs affected with this disease may have symptoms varying from very mild to severe bleeding. If your pet bruises easily or bleeds excessively, this disease is a possibility. Hypothyroidism , a metabolic disease characterized by inadequate thyroid hormone circulating in the bloodstream, is common in the breed. Affected animals may also have various reproductive problems, including irregular or absent estrus heat cycle , and lack of fertility. Other hormone problems include Hyperadrenocorticism Cushings , Diabetes Mellitus sugar diabetes , and insulonima causing low blood sugar. Symptoms vary, and usually include excess drinking and urinating. If your Lab is underweight and regurgitates its food it might have an esophagus problem secondary to myasthenia gravis. This breed is prone to many skin problems , particularly allergies and hot spots. The usual symptoms are excessive scratching, flaky or bumpy skin, an odor to the haircoat, and hairloss. Also watch for a lack of pigmentation on the nose or flakiness to the nose. Run your hands over its haircoat daily because they can even get a malignant skin cancer called a mast cell tumor. These can appear as minor bumps or areas of inflammation, yet they can be highly malignant. A vast array of eye problems can occur. Any discharge, redness, swelling, squinting, or pawing at the eyes is reason for an immediate exam. Labs are also prone to ear trouble , which can be very painful without your realization. Any sign of head shaking, pawing at the ears, inflamed ears or odor requires veterinary attention. Daily checking for odors or discharge, and proper cleaning when needed, will help prevent this problem. Several different types of heart problems can affect them. Look for symptoms of lethargy, exercise intolerance, coughing, and poor appetite as a clue. Search for:. We are honored she chose an article she wrote for us for her submission, and thrilled to hear that she was recognized for it by the dog writing community. They smile, they seduce, and they are powerful enough to pry a pork chop right out of your palm. Labrador retrievers are prone to congenital and acquired eye disorders, and knowing what to look for will help you get your pet the help he needs. Progressive Retinal Atrophy If your Lab seems to stumble when it gets dark, his night vision could be failing. Loss of night vision is a symptom of progressive retinal atrophy, or PRA, a group of inherited eye diseases that involve the deterioration of the retina. This disease attacks the rod cells in the retina, the cells that help the eye see in low light. You may suspect your Lab has this if his eyes have a reflective shine and he seems to have difficulty in dimly lit situations. Unfortunately, prcd is progressive, and your pup may eventually become blind. A veterinary ophthalmologist can diagnose prcd even before symptoms appear with an electroretinogram, a test that measures activity in the retina. Genetic testing can also be conducted with a simple blood sample. There is no treatment or cure or treatment for this disease, but careful breeding has made it less common, Dr. If your Lab has entropion, it will be obvious in the first year. His eyelid usually the lower one will roll in toward his eye. His fur and eyelashes will rub against the surface of the eye causing irritation, excessive tearing, and redness. You may notice that he squints or tries to rub his eye with his paw or on the floor. Entropion can be corrected with plastic surgery that removes a small slit of extra skin below the eye. In some cases, your vet may be able to train the eyelid to stay in the correct position by temporarily suturing the eyelid to the skin below, forcing it to roll out and away from the eye. Peiffer, who has three Labs at home. Cataracts If your Lab has cataracts, one or both eyes will have a milky cast to them. That cloudy appearance around middle age is caused by a change in the lens of his eye. Because cataracts make the lens opaque instead of clear, they prevent light from reaching the retina and eventually cause blindness. Researchers suspect that Labs inherit this common disease, but they have yet to identify the gene that causes it, Dr. Cataracts can also be caused by diabetes, also common in Labs, or by inflammation or trauma to the eye. This change is a bit like needing reading glasses in your 40s, Dr. Cataracts can be removed, but you should think twice before opting for cataract surgery, Dr. For some reason, dogs have a much higher rate of complication than humans do after this common eye surgery. A high percentage of Labradors will develop glaucoma after cataract surgery, even though glaucoma — unrelated to surgery — usually occurs in only 10 percent of Labs. In fact, one-third of all Labradors will develop glaucoma after the surgery, according to a paper published in the Veterinarian Ophthalmology Academic Journal in .He can still have a life worth living. Conjunctivitis is the term used for a contagious eye infection usually seen in dogs 18 months or younger and can generally be treated with antibiotic drops. But not all eye infections are contagious, and they can come from a variety of sources. Lisa Lomond, who sees dogs a month at her Los Angeles practice. Where you live may help provide a clue to the type of infection and the appropriate treatment, Dr. Peiffer said. For example, in the east, tick-borne Lyme disease can cause a secondary eye infection. In the southwestern U. In the Midwest, your Lab can be blinded and potentially die if he inhales infectious spores from the Blastomyces fungus. Retinal Dysplasia Your Lab can be born with retinal dysplasia and you may not even know it, Dr. In Labs, retinal dysplasia is associated with another syndrome called oculoskeletal dysplasia, he said, which can cause shortened limbs, a detached retina, and early blindness. As with prcd, a genetic test has been developed to detect the gene for retinal dysplasia. Selective breeding has helped to reduce the number of dogs born with the disease. You can promote healthy eyes with antioxidant supplements such as vitamins A, C, and E, recommended Dr. And remember that if your Lab does have a congenital or acquired eye disease that impacts his vision, he can still live a long, healthy life. However, you may need to adapt your lifestyle together. Most dogs who lose their sight learn to negotiate at home just fine, but rearranging the furniture will confuse them. Any of these presenting signs may represent something serious.

The average cost of a Pug puppy in Arizona varies depending on a variety of factors. The canines you may buy from reliable breeders usually have lesser pricing. Experienced or well-known breeders would most likely demand greater prices. Of course, the type of Pug you desire will always be the main factor. Given the cost of the puppies themselves, you will also need to budget for other expenses. Why to avoid puppy mills and backyard breeders while choosing a Pug Puppy in Arizona? When it comes to adopting puppies for a family, puppy mills and backyard breeders should never be regarded. Puppy mills strive to make the greatest profit by spending the least amount of money on the canines. As a result, the puppies frequently experience health and behavioral problems. Since the s, the Humane Society of the United States has attempted to shut down these institutions. In order to avoid them, you need to do proper research on them as they may try to sell their dogs by calling themselves breeders. It may be tough to locate a reputable Pug breeder. Many dogs are now being raised in terrible conditions by unskilled breeders. There are, however, some steps you may take to discover the right breeder for you. These are given below. Reach Out to Friends Do you have a Pug-loving buddy or acquaintance? Inquire about their knowledge and breeder information. Try to find out about them and inquire about their breeder. Attend Dog Shows Breeders can be found wherever there is a dog show. Attend one to learn more about litter. There you can find a great deal of information about the puppies and their accomplishments. This includes- asking about their experience, asking about the parents, how and where they take care of the pups, about their contract and many more. What is the Maintenance cost in Arizona to raise a Pug Puppy? There are a few items you must have on available as you greet your puppy or adult dog into their new home to make situations much simpler for both of you. Besides, there will be medical costs as well. According to licensed veterinarian Dr. Every dog breed was created with a distinct set of requirements and objectives in mind. The Pug is a popular dog breed with a large following. Because they are friendly, humorous, loyal, cute, and reasonably easy to care for, they are an excellent choice for first-time dog owners. They make excellent pets for homes and anyone with the ability to raise a stubborn breed. Their main drawback is the numerous health issues that stem from that lovely short snout, so make sure you have the funds to cover any potential health issues as well as the heart to care for a dog that may not live to be ten years old. What do I need to know about Pug puppies? The Chinese Pug is a unique canine that may be found everywhere from the laps of royalty to many American homes. If you are thinking of getting a Pug, there are a few things you should know beforehand. Some important facts about this dog breed are given below. Pugs Shed a Lot Pugs shed a lot. Some Pugs have double coats, which means they have a fur undercoat and a fur topcoat. Make sure you have more than enough lint rollers and a powerful vacuum cleaner. They Crave a lot of Attention Pugs adore their owners and are constantly eager to spend time with them. While you are using the restroom, you can put it on your lap, in your bed, or even at your feet. Forget about your own space and get used to never being alone again. Temperatures that are neither too hot nor too chilly are ideal for them. Make sure your Pug has a comfy place to rest and does not spend a lot of time outside in bad weather. Their large eyes can cause corneal ulcers or dry eyes, and their smushed face can cause breathing problems. Their wrinkles also need to be cleansed. As a result, they are not necessarily the most compliant. Are Pugs Good With Kids? Pugs adore children. Pugs are known for being the clowns of the dog world. The Pug is a suitable breed choice for families with children. Despite their small size, they are not as fragile as certain toy breeds. They are among the most adorable canines you will ever meet, and they are irresistible playmates and pals for kids. Besides, they are also calm canines who get along well with children. A Pug, on the other hand, will disappoint children who want an energetic companion to play with. Encounters between children and dogs should always be supervised by adults. Over To You Thank you for taking the time to read through the list. Do you find the information and list above to be helpful? Pugs of how old are you looking for? I prefer month old Pugs for adoption. Let me know your thoughts on this matter. Besides, if you know any good Arizona Pug breeder who is not on my list, please share your knowledge with me. I am always open to new ideas. Do not forget to leave your useful comments in the comment section. I hope you find luck in finding a reputable Chinese Pug breeder of your choice. Related Topics:. Yolanda believes that each animal under her care has a spiritually responsive soul that requires love and care. Yolanda sometimes has pups available so keep up to date with her Facebook page for the latest news. Pug Place does not work on a first-come-first-served basis. Yolanda only offers her puppies to the most deserving, kind, and valuable adopters. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time. Pug Description The Pug is a small, stocky, square and thick set dog. They are keen, with a happy-go lucky attitude. These sturdy little puppies were bred for companionship so they are loyal, loving and affectionate with their family. Strong-minded and confident, Pugs can be willful if they sense that they are stronger-minded than the people around them. They need an owner who is calm yet firm and confident. Consistent training will ensure this smart breed does not bore and can reach his or her full, amazing potential. Discover more about our Pug puppies for sale below. History The Pug is one of the oldest breeds known today, believed to have originated before BC. Most researchers agree that the Pug originated in Asia and descended from the shorthaired Pekingese. Some speculate they are the result of a small Bulldog or a miniature form of the French Mastiff. Regardless, the breed rose to popularity during the Victorian era in the 19th century. Tibetan monasteries often kept Pugs as pets around this time. In Japan and Europe the breed not only became a pet of royalty, but the official dog of the House of Orange in Holland. Disposition The Pug is a devoted dog. They crave the love and attention of their owners and will be unhappy if that is not reciprocated. This is a puppy that is happiest when in your lap or showing off to their family. These little dogs tend to be rather sedentary, content to sit in your lap and chill. These playful, silly puppies light up the room, living it up and pleasing the crowd with their silly antics. Of course, temperament is affected by a number of factors including training and socialization, and a Pug puppy will do best with early socialization and puppy training. Taking your puppy to classes, inviting regular visitors, and taking them to busy parks and stores for walks will polish their social skills and create a well-rounded dog. The Pug is not a guard dog, hunter or retriever. They love to play but certainly have a mind of their own. Be sure to monitor their food intake as they can gain weight easily. Training All breeds benefit from early socialization and basic obedience training. The Pug can be stubborn, so it is important to assert yourself as the leader by being confident and strong-minded yourself. Pug puppies are wonderful pets for the family and their lively personalities make them great playmates. Get them used to it bit by bit as a puppy and be sure they have plenty of toys to keep them entertained while you are gone. If you devote yourself to a Pug, they are relatively low maintenance dogs. They do not require a lot of grooming nor do they need a lot of exercise. Just pay special attention to their wrinkles and breathing needs, and you will have a happy Pug! Exercise This breed is good for apartment life as they are relatively inactive indoors and do okay without a yard. They cannot tolerate hot or cold weather very well so it is best to keep them indoors at a comfortable temperature. Pug puppies are strong with short-legs and they will need to be taken on daily walks. When walking your Pug, make sure to make the dog heel beside or behind the person with the leash, as their instincts will tell them to lead the way. They also enjoy playing energetic games and will do well if you can give them regular exercise. Be careful to not overdo it with your Pug, or you will see them start to wheeze. Grooming The coat on a Pug is short, smooth and double coated. They are above average shedders. Regular brushing and bathing helps keep the coat in good condition and shedding to a minimum. A monthly bath is enough, though some bathe more frequently. Cleaning their ears is also a good idea. The most attention you will need to give your pug is their wrinkles. These folds are hotbeds for infection if allowed to become damp or dirty. The wrinkles must be dried thoroughly after a cleaning, and wiped between baths. The rest is basic care, keep their teeth clean and brush that fur! See store for details on a particular puppy. American Canine Association. Questions about Pug puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? We have answers. How much are Pug puppies for sale in Phoenix AZ? They can get pudgy so be sure to still walk them! Can I only choose from local pups? Not too long ago, you were more limited by geography when looking for a puppy. Fortunately, the businesses and breeders in the Uptown Puppies Network have plenty of experience and training transporting their puppies to major US airports, making your search a cinch. How do you select Pug breeders in Phoenix? At Uptown Puppies, we carefully screen each participant in our network and are committed to high standards of animal welfare. Read more on our Breeder Pledge. How much do Pug puppies for sale in Phoenix cost? The price of a Pug for sale in Phoenix can be different depending on many factors, including the experience level or location of the company or breeder that you choose. There are also puppy specific factors that come into play with Pug for sale Phoenix such as gender, temperament and color. There are generally plenty of options within our network to match your price range. What makes Uptown Puppies the best choice to find a dog? Uptown Puppies cares about connecting the best in the business to loving and caring homes just like yours when it comes to Pug puppies for sale Phoenix. We strive to ensure a happy ending for all and that starts by only working with highly vetted and ethical breeders and businesses with Phoenix Pug for sale. Our network is made up of only the most stand out companies and breeders out there, giving you peace of mind. What exactly are puppy mills? Do they have them for local puppies? Puppy mills are a huge problem when it comes to the puppy market and looking for Pug Phoenix , and are to be avoided at all costs! They are essentially factory-like places where puppies are churned out as quickly as possible without regard to the health or welfare of the animals churning them out. They are profit focused and puppies from here frequently end up with expensive vet bills. Do you have any mixed Pugs? Mixed breed Pug pups and cross breeds such as the Daugle or Pom-A-Pug are popular nowadays and give you additional variety when you are looking for your perfect puppy. Phoenix Pug puppy for sale typically come in either light brown, cream or solid black. However, mixed breed Pugs can come in multiple different colors and range in size. What type of dog is a Pug? Pugs are a miniature breed dog that originally came from China and were later brought over to Europe and started to gain in popularity. They were made famous from the Dutch royal family centuries ago and are now a well known breed in the US and around the world. Are Pugs good with younger children? Pugs are often a pup of choice for those with kids or those who will have a family at some point. Pug puppies Phoenix are docile and super playful, making them enjoyable for everyone in the family, even the kids. Their solid build also makes them less fragile when playing. Are there any new litter of Pugs? Given the popularity of Pugs and how common they have become recently, you can count on finding plenty of options with our Pug breeders Phoenix!

Check with local veterinarians' offices, animal shelters, pet supply stores, and other area pet business for referrals to dog rescue organizations in your area. Contact one local dog rescue group for referral to other area groups. Some dog rescue groups work with all dogs, while others are breed-specific. Most rescues groups have established networks with other area rescues. The organization's website also provides links to rescue organizations. Although the majority of dogs looking for new homes through rescue groups are adults, sometimes rescue groups have puppies to place. Most German Shepherds looking for homes through rescue groups do not have papers. If registering your puppy is important, or if you intend to enter it into competitions, you will need its title papers and health records, so a rescued dog may not be right for you. Many dog rescues will require a thorough application process in order to assure that you will be a good fit for the dog. Be prepared to disclose your address and whether you own your home, as well as your employment status and your philosophy when it comes to raising a dog. You will want to make sure that the dog's temperament works well with you and your family. Ask whether you can get the dog checked out by your veterinarian. You will want your vet to check the dog's general health and for serious conditions, such as heart murmurs. Be sure to ask about the dog's health while the rescue has had it and if it is up to date on shots and healthcare. A good rescue should actually offer this information upfront. Get a history of the dog's healthcare up to that point. Has it had its first vaccination, had heart worm treatment, and parasite control? These should have all been done before the age when a puppy is adoptable. While many rescue organizations cannot tell you much about the dogs they place, because the dogs have been rescued off the street or they have been given up anonymously, sometimes they have a bit of information. Get all the information you can about the dog's past so that you can assess their general background and health. Dog rescue organizations are usually run on a shoe-string budget. While they depend mostly on volunteers, they do need funds to transport and care for dogs. Your adoption fee will most likely help to pay for the rescue of other dogs in the future. Our 'Puppy Quickstart Program' makes bringing a new puppy into your home easier! Do you want a german shepherd puppy.We offer shipping to select states and countries around the world for these trained puppies. Please note: availability for this year is extremely limited. The answer all depends. .From weeks your puppy is in its first fear stage, which is critical for expose to scenarios they will encounter in their future adult life. During this stage, puppies should be exposed to new people and other healthy dogs, as well as differing terrain and environment. These experiences provide the foundation for the adult dog they will eventually become, but first it's important for them to become a trained puppy. It is vital to keep all activities and real-world exposure extremely positive, safe and monitored as you train your puppy. This time period is critical for their future temperament and personality. If you work a normal job, putting the necessary hours into training your puppy during it's first month at home ages weeks may not be entirely possible. And leaving your young un-crate trained puppy alone in his or her crate for an entire day is sure to have detrimental affects down the road. Training a German Shepherd puppy is hard enough. When you leave the pup in their crate all day, this "ball of energy" becomes even harder to train and house-break. Introducing, the Puppy Quickstart program.The long-requested "trained puppy program" is finally here at Hayes Haus. Here's how it works: From ages weeks of your puppy's life, he or she will remain at Hayes Haus and partake in an extremely regimented training program. During this program, your new puppy will be monitored round-the-clock to ensure proper training and development, which includes but is not limited to socialization with strangers including well-behaved children as well as safe cats and dogs. In order for your puppy to be obey you around other pets, it's important to begin training them at an early age to do so. What goes into a "Trained Puppy Program"? On any particular day at Hayes Haus, your puppy will be going through any number of proven-safe scenarios for puppies. We take short rides in the car to some of our neighborhood parks and trails to use some of the natural obstacles; we teach puppies to pleasantly accept grooming and expose them to bathing; we instill good habits such as keeping your paws on the floor and eliminating on leash; we also use puppy games to teach important life commands. Here's a more in-depth breakdown for you: Training begins at 3 weeks of age, teaching the puppy to make eye contact The puppies are monitored around the clock and follow a very regimented schedule will send exact training schedule to the email address you enter above Socialization exercises are conducted daily All trained german shepherd puppies are available for pickup at 14 weeks of age. At this time, your puppy will know his or her name and be used to the schedule you provide us, which helps with easier integration into your home. When your puppy comes home, they'll be crate-trained, and have the groundwork extensive exposure to training for the following commands: Sit. Ready for new homes: August 11, .Ready for new homes: September .Ready for new homes: October .Ready for new homes: November .Ready for new homes: December .Ready for new homes: June .GSDs are a versatile and highly intelligent breed capable of mastering complex obedience commands. Their intelligent versatility is just one of many unique factors that put GSDs head and shoulders above most other breeds in the canine world. The average GSD can grow to a shoulder height as high as 26 inches and are capable of equal parts grace and power. Because of this incredible mixture of intelligence, grace, and strength, they are the favorite breed of security experts from local K-9 police departments to every branch of the military across many different nations. GSDs are also capable of mastering the highest levels of show dog training making them among the most popular breeds of championship show dog organizations. There are plenty of reasons why German Shepherds have long been thought of as canine royalty. Select your new pup from one of our available litters and make your reservation with us. No problem. You can contact us at or or email us at vomragnar gmail. Our trainers can also train your pup for basic obedience, advanced obedience, and protection or security work. Your puppy will learn excellent manners and communication skills that will provide you with many years of a rich, full relationship with your German Shepherd. Design Please beware of scams and frauds! There are scams out there who use our brand. Their website may look exact the same since they duplicate our website or their domains look similar. Our website is vomragnar. Our brand name is patented. We are licensed breeders in Illinois. Please do not trust scammers and beware. Want to see our puppies available for sale? 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. May not even be aware of the breed standard. Breeds to any convenient dog. Strives towards the ideal. Often helps to define it. Does not need to promote establishment; sells to brokers, pet shops, etc. Often rescues only to attain more stock. Rarely attends shows or trials. Shows and trials to objectively test breeding stock. Often judges, provides seminars, writes articles, and willingly mentors serious Hobby Breeders. Knowledge Often pretends to know some. May share false or incomplete information. Studies continuously. Impacts the breed for many decades with knowledge of dogs over many generations. All pups sold have full breeding rights. Yes, and diligently follows up on progeny. Keeps up with health and temperament issues affecting the breeding and provides in-depth guarantees No need to; mostly supplies brokers and pet shops. Meets minimum standards as required by state law. May refuse to acknowledge most problems. Maintains a solid support system — accepts full responsibility for every puppy produced. Performs health testing for all breeding stock for genetic diseases affecting the particular breed. No interest, may offer papers as proof of quality. Papers alone are not proof of quality. No interest. May provide undocumented paperwork for appearances sake. Is unfamiliar with health testing usually statements of good health are stated to impress consumers. Intensive testing always a priority. Often initiates club sponsored seminars and clinics. Maintains records on all dogs in gene pool including progeny. Often supplies brokers and pet shops, records unavailable. Dogs and puppies are often auctioned off in lots, records unavailable. Focuses mostly on current dogs, no records or knowledge of genes. Attempts to continuously track every puppy produced. Bases entire breeding program on extensive gene pool data. Clean environment always maintained Minimum standards vary greatly in cleanliness. Minimum standards maintained for state inspections. Conditions may vary greatly depending on available income, usually makeshift accommodations. Clean, healthy and mentally stimulating environment. Expected longevity with any particular breed Will continue as long as the sales are coming. Depends on popularity of specific breeds. Unrealistic expectations — easily disillusioned. On a mission-plans to stay for the long haul. Health guarantee provided No, it cuts into profits. No health guarantee beyond proof of first set of vaccines, if that. Not qualified to give advice if a problem arises. Offers written guarantee and is available to answer questions to new owners. Good knowledge of history in dogs. Extensive knowledge of health history, offers replacements to owners of genetically affected dogs. Ability to meet the parents of the litter If available, may be in poor physical condition. If available, dogs are not used to contact with people. May or may not be well loved and cared for companions, often unwilling to show entire litter or parents to buyer. Shows friendly mother and entire litter in clean environment; stud dog too, if in residence. Helps buyer choose appropriate puppy. Can explain how breeding was planned to emphasize specific qualities and can speak at length about how puppies compare. What you can expect after purchase Nothing, may not be able to contact at all. No concern for dog after sale is final. Available for questions, and wants to keep in touch. Will take back dog or puppy at any time. After purchase will help with training and grooming, available for all questions and knows the answers. Price Priced according to market, but is marked up from original source for profit. Mid-range to move puppies quickly. High end of mid-range. Price will not reflect all that is invested. Use only physically sound, mature dogs of stable temperament for breeding. These characteristics are rarely, if ever, determined before the age of two for females. Continue to educate themselves regarding genetic diseases pertinent to the breed including, hip and elbow dysplasia. Documentation of hip and elbow screenings should be available to prospective puppy buyers. Apply the same high standards to outside bitches sent to their stud dogs as they apply to their own breeding stock. Temperament testing of a litter before puppies are offered for sale is encouraged. Take appropriate steps to have each puppy examined by a licensed veterinarian for general health prior to placement. Each puppy should be vaccinated and de-wormed by a veterinarian. Endeavor to gain personal knowledge of the temperament and health of every dog they breed, or to which they breed, in order to gather information on which to base future breeding decisions. They share this information fully and honestly with other breeders and with prospective buyers. Sell breeding prospects to knowledgeable, ethical and experienced persons or are willing to help educate and guide novices. Do not engage in misleading or untrue advertising and do not use GSDCA membership as a marketing tool. Do not sell, supply, donate or surrender any dog for which they are responsible to a pet shop, catalogue house, wholesale dealer in dogs, Humane Society or to a laboratory. They should have reasonable assurance that each individual receiving a dog will provide a home with appropriate shelter, restraint, control and responsible care. Encourage puppy buyers to go to puppy obedience classes to help their puppies to become better canine good citizens. The achievement of a Canine Good Citizen certificate should be encouraged. Since homeowners insurance and local laws vary greatly, a refusal to let you visit the kennels may not, in and of itself, be a bad sign. You should ask for and receive a satisfactory explanation. The puppies are not social or look sickly. How to read those ads. A few more things to look out for. Anyone can buy a puppy from a champion, but it does not mean that they have any other interest in the breed but to bank on the name and make money. Having a Champion in a pedigree is like having a billionaire relative. AKC registration does not guarantee quality. AKC papers are much like the title of a car; papers are issued to the junked Chevy on blocks in your yard just as easily as they are on a brand new, shiny Jaguar. AKC does not control breeding, approve litters, or guarantee temperaments. AKC Registration is automatic if you buy from a reputable breeder — they will provide all necessary paperwork when you buy a puppy. There are several groups that are registering dogs, even mixed breeds, for a fee. This registration means nothing, and is of no value to you. Are there too many defects for the animal to be bred? Shop with care. Rarely will a good breeder have the luck to own both dogs for the perfect litter. There are some good and very reasonable reasons to have both parents on site. However, you need to ask the right questions and understand why this is true. They might be, they might not. Are they too big to be cute anymore? Need more money? Is there a problem? Usually because there are more on the way. Be very wary of this one. Will a Breeder Ask Me Questions? Conscientious breeders want the best available home for their puppies. This determines the amount of time you will have available for your new addition. There are very important items that should be supplied by the breeder. Breeders will typically give you the following items: A signed pedigree A current Health Record; including de-wormings and vaccinations. American Kennel Club registration papers or application Sales contract. The type of contract varies and must be mutually agreeable to the breeder and buyer. Much depends on what you expect from the puppy show, pet, or performance. Feeding schedule including the type and amount of food. Copy of OFA certification of sire and dam, if available.