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Articles There are people who love tiny dogs, and there are those who prefer keeping huge dogs. Giant Poodles are sometimes known as Royal Poodles. Breeders usually refer to these dogs using these terms so that they can charge more for them. If you are one of those people who prefer huge dogs and are particularly interested in the Poodle breed, this article will furnish you with all the information you need to know about Giant Poodles. Giant Poodles are Poodles that fall on the higher extreme of Standard Poodles. The term giant is only used by breeders. How Big Are Giant Poodles? The term standard is used to refer to any Poodle that is over 15 inches in height and weighs over 45 lbs. The average Standard Poodle measures about 22 to 26 inches at the withers and weighs between 60 to 70 lbs. In comparison, Giant Poodles measure about 25 to 32 inches at the withers, with their weight falling between 70 to 90 lbs. This makes them visibly larger than most Standard Poodles. Appearance Apart from the differences in size, there is no other physical difference between Giant Poodles and other Poodles. The Giant Poodle is a well-proportioned canine with dark, oval eyes, large and wide ears that hang close to the head, a narrow skull with a distinct stop, and a long neck that allows them to carry its head high. Giant Poodles have a deep and moderately wide chest, a straight and level topline, and a dense coat with curly hair. Giant Poodles have a wide variety of coat colors, including red, apricot, black, white, brown, silver, and cream. Research shows that larger dogs generally have shorter lifespans than small dogs. This does not, however, apply to Giant Poodles. Giant Poodles have a similar lifespan to other Poodles, so you can expect your Giant Poodle to have a life expectancy of about 10 to 15 years. Giant Poodles are still at risk of suffering from diseases and conditions that affect other Poodles. Some common health issues among Giant Poodles include: Bloat Bloat, also referred to as gastric dilatation volvulus , is a potentially fatal condition that is very common among large-sized dogs. Actually, this is one of the most common health issues that Giant Poodles die from. Hip Dysplasia This is another condition that is very common in big dogs. Hip dysplasia results from the failure of the head of the thigh bone to fit snugly into the hip joint socket. The best way to avoid most of these conditions is to ascertain that proper checks were conducted before breeding occurred. Dietary Requirements Due to their large size, Giant Poodles have high energy requirements, and therefore, you need to make sure you are feeding them enough food. Giant Poodles will require about 4 to 5 cups of high-quality food daily, given twice a day preferably in the morning and evening. So, what is the best dog food for your Giant Poodle? Our top recommendation is Pet Plate dog food. We love the fact that all their recipes are expertly created by a vet nutritionist to ensure that their food delivers a balanced and nutrient-dense diet for your fido. Tartar and plaque are also known to cause lots of dental issues for Poodles, so we recommend that you invest in dental water additives to minimize the risk of dental problems. Exercise Requirements Being a big dog with loads of energy, your Giant Poodle will definitely need lots of exercise and stimulating activities. Make sure they get over an hour of physical activity every day. You can bring your Giant Poodle with you on morning runs, long hikes, walks around the block, tug of war, you name it. In addition, Giant Poodles are excellent swimmers, which means that you can also give them adequate and enjoyable exercise by taking them to the beach. Are Giant Poodles Aggressive? They are friendly, social dogs and will hardly ever get aggressive toward people or other pets. They are sometimes reserved towards strangers, but even then, it is very unlikely for Giant Poodles to get aggressive. Yes, Giant Poodles have lots of energy and thrive best in situations that allow them to burn off this energy. This means that Giant Poodles are best suited for people who have active lifestyles. If you hardly ever get out of the house, or if you hardly ever have time to spend with your canine buddy, the Giant Poodle is not the right dog for you. In addition, they are not a stubborn breed. This means that training a Giant Poodle is easy, especially if you start the training early enough. However, you will need to keep varying the training; otherwise, the Giant Poodle can easily get bored and stop responding to training. Are Giant Poodles Needy? Another notable thing about Giant Poodles is that, despite being giants, they are needy dogs that need constant love and attention. Giant Poodles thrive best when they are next to their owner or family members and are not good at handling loneliness. If you routinely leave your Giant Poodle by themselves, they can develop separation anxiety, get depressed, and start chewing on things like carpets and furniture. This makes them a great choice for people looking for hypoallergenic dogs. Brushing Giant Poodles are not high-maintenance dogs, despite having dense, luxurious coats. All you need to do is simply brush them regularly. In addition to being safe for your furry buddy, the FURminator Undercoat tool also has an ergonomic handle that is comfortable for your hands. Removes loose hair: reaches through the topcoat to remove loose undercoat hair without cutting skin or damaging the.FURejector button: just push the button to release hair with ease. Check Price on Amazon Bathing You will also need to give your Giant Poodle a bath from time to time to prevent dirt from accumulating on its coat and to keep the coat healthy and shiny. A good rule of thumb is to give your Giant Poodle a bath every three months. To avoid skin sensitivity problems, always bathe your Giant Poodle using shampoos that are formulated for dogs and have the right pH balance for your dog. Giant Poodles will often be slightly more expensive than other Standard Poodles. You should also keep in mind that you will incur other costs when purchasing your Giant Poodle, such as vaccination costs, microchipping costs, and licensing costs. Giant Poodles are simply Standard Poodles that are bigger and heavier compared to the average Standard Poodle. Whereas the average Standard Poodle is about 22 to 26 inches tall, Giant Poodles are between 25 and 32 inches tall. Giant Poodles are also heavier than the average Standard Poodle, weighing in the 70 to 90 lbs range. While it is possible for a Giant Poodle to kill you, the chances of this happening are exceptionally low. Giant Poodles are not dangerous. They are friendly and adorable dogs, just like any other Poodle, with the only difference being that they are bigger in size. They are gentle giants. Studies show that physical connection with your pup is good for you, relieving stress and actually lowering blood pressure, and really, is it any wonder? After all, some of these super huggable hounds are so large dog breeds , it's almost like cuddling a human. But unlike human companions, they're covered head to toe in soft, fuzzy floof! Even one of the Drummond dogs , Presley the German shepherd, are represented in this list! And a lot of the cuddling canines on our list of fluffy dogs are highly intelligent herding dogs , making them perfect companions whether you're at home or on the range. Many of these breeds also come from cold climates—including Siberian huskies, Alaskan malamutes, Tibetan mastiffs, and Saint Bernards—which is great news if you do, too. Their thick, coats were made to withstand that winter wonderland weather. So take a peek at our list and then plan accordingly if you're thinking about adopting one of these beauties. Chances are good that a dog of this kind will require some significant, regular grooming. But just think of all the love you'll receive in return! But he is a famously friendly, enthusiastic pup perfect for life as a family dog. You may seldom see his eyes, but brush the old English sheepdog thoroughly a few times a week to keep that long, beautiful coat knot-free and you'll have a best bud for life. A Newfie is the doggo for you! With a water-resistant coat, massive lung capacity and webbed toes, this Canadian breed made its mark as a shipboard dog that could be counted on to perform daring sea rescues in the frigid Atlantic. The noble Newfoundland, which can reach pounds, has a tendency to seriously shed and occasionally drool, making grooming at least once a week a must. Literally bred to be cuddlers—their humans have long huddled up against them to keep warm on frozen Arctic nights—Sammies are deeply social dogs. They typically don't do well without their people, so be prepared to spend lots of time playing with and petting this pack-oriented poochie. Make a good daily brushing a part of the routine, because they shed no matter the season. Bernard is also recognized as a literal life-saver thanks to his history rescuing travelers lost in Europe's snowy Alps. Understanding, patient and placid, these very large love bugs, which can weigh more than pounds and stand some 30 inches high, are great for a household with small children. They're shedding machines, but weekly brushing will help. They're also courageous and calm, and always ready to defend home and hearth with their powerful bodies, which can easily reach more than pounds and upwards of 32 inches tall. Equally powerful is their annual spring shedding that makes way for their summer coats, so be ready for the fur to fly. You can help manage it with weekly brushing sessions. Nowadays, borzois can still reach speeds of 40 m. You will probably need to comb your borzoi every day to detangle and uncurl those long locks—if, of course, you can catch him. Whether in the field or with the fam, this is one hard worker still happiest with a job to do, even if it's just accompanying you on a long walk. Affectionate and loving, they also boast brains to go along with that brawn, so use a light touch when training—and brush that thick, double coat weekly. Their endurance and running ability is the stuff of legend; their humans should be able to run them in a secure space at least a couple of times a week. Otherwise, these fluffy charmers with the striking eyes are easy to keep, needing a good brushing just about as often as they are exercised. Bred in the Scottish Highlands as bird dogs, they are intelligent lovers-of-life that enjoy nothing more than a good swim or a game of fetch. And that gorgeous golden coat? It's hard to believe, but it only requires attention about once a week to stay shiny and soft. Of imposing size and bulk they can reach 26 inches tall and more than pounds , with a strength to match, Tibetan mastiffs have a serene, but sweet attitude when with family members. They "blow out" their coats annually in a major shedding session, but the rest of the year only need to brushed once a week. As Ree can attest, they're also whip-smart, courageous and unfailingly loyal, traits that earned them jobs in police and military K-9 units across the world. At home, German shepherds are gentle and steady, though they can be a bit reserved. Which, as a herding dog of great energy, they will need to do for about an hour everyday. You won't have to brush all that gorgeous fur more than about once a week, though. In return for the attention you'll have a deeply devoted, intelligent pup that is an ideal addition to families with even small children. You should be. These sled dogs are not only extremely strong, loving and loyal, they have a thick, waterproof double coat you'll definitely want to run your fingers through. It comes at a price, however: Alaskan Malamutes need to brushed daily with a pin brush and metal comb to avoid mats, which can lead to health problems like hot spots. Designated a national natural monument in their native Japan, they where represent protection, health and even happiness, this is another breed recognized for their steadfast nature. Akitas also have a thick double coat, but they don't really shed except for biannual blow outs, when it comes out in clumps. Brush them more frequently then; other than that, once a week will do. They aren't naturally the biggest cuddlers, but instead somewhat aloof. Socializing them well and early is critical; so is grooming them at least twice a week, paying attention to the eyes and ears, too. They require a good brushing every day, and then a more thorough tending to wither various implements like, 3 or 4 once a week—a not-inconsiderable job on a dog that can weigh as much as pounds. For all this effort, you'll be rewarded with unlimited affection and an athletic playmate that's nicely laid-back when not romping with you. He only needs to bathed about once a month, and brushed weekly; likewise this newer breed sports an easy-going personality and is known for being loving, level-headed and intelligent. The Eurasier, whose name reflects his European and Asian heritage, typically forges close ties with his human family, so this is not a dog that can be kept outside. And when their coats are kept long and brushed-out, pound for pound, few pups are more pouffy than a poodle. But all those clouds of hair take some time and energy to maintain: a full-coated poodle must be brushed and combed daily down to the skin, or nasty matting will occur. Poodles are famously smart, athletic and make great additions to families with little ones. Like most herders, briards are spirited, mega-bright and industrious, and take well to training. Groom them several times weekly down to the skin with a pin brush and undercoat rake to keep shedding under control. Train and social him early to prevent over-protectiveness, and he will make for a wonderful family dog, as long as you take care of his coat, which needs brushing a couple times a week. Use a pin brush and large comb, and plan on getting him professional trimmed at least yearly. Jill is the travel editor for Enchanted Living. Learn more about her journey at gleesonreboots. 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. Although it hardly seems possible when you look at a primped-up Poodle in the show ring, the breed was originally a water retriever, a job that requires jumping in the water to fetch waterfowl for hunters. In fact, the English name poodle is derived from the German word pudel, or pudelin, which means to splash in the water. And in France, Poodles are called Caniche, a name derived from chien canard, meaning duck dog. There are three sizes of Poodle, all considered part of the same breed: going from smallest to largest, these are the Toy, the Miniature, and the Standard. The Standard is probably the oldest of the three varieties, and some still carry on the Poodle tradition of working as a water retriever. No matter the size, Poodles are renowned for a playful but dignified personality and keen intelligence. Despite his regal air, the Poodle is no snob. These are people-friendly dogs who want to stay close to their families — they get lonely when left by themselves for long periods — and are always up for a good game. This is especially common among the smaller varieties — Miniature and Toy Poodles — who are more likely to be coddled and untrained. The Poodle coat needs a lot of upkeep to stay beautiful and healthy. Most Poodle owners take their dogs to a professional groomer every three to six weeks. If you want to save money on grooming expenses, you can learn to do it yourself, but it takes time and effort. Poodles have weepy eyes that can stain the surrounding hair. To cut down on stains, gently wipe down the face daily with an alcohol-free pet wipe or washcloth dipped in warm water. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Poodle History The Poodle is one of the oldest breeds developed especially for hunting waterfowl. Most historians agree that the Poodle originated in Germany, but developed into his own distinct breed in France. Many believe that the breed is the result of crosses between several European water dogs, including Spanish, Portuguese, French, German, Hungarian, and Russian water dogs. After that, the breed arrived in Gaul where it was used for his hunting abilities. Yet another theory is that the Poodle descended from dogs that were brought out of the Asian steppes by the conquering North African Berbers and eventually found his way into Portugal in the 8th Century with the Moors. Whatever its ancestry, this is a very old breed. Illustrations of Poodle-like dogs adorn Egyptian and Roman artifacts and tombs dating from the first centuries B. The drawings and statues show dogs that look very much like modern-day Poodles, bringing in game nets, herding animals, and retrieving game from marshes. The Toy and Miniature varieties were created by breeding small Poodles to each other, not by breeding Poodles to smaller breeds. The French used the larger Standard Poodle for duck hunting, and the mid-sized Miniature Poodle to sniff out truffles in the woods. They trained Poodles to perform tricks, dressing them in costumes and sculpting their coats into fanciful shapes to add to their stage appeal. Wealthy patrons took note and started clipping, decorating, and even dying their own Poodle companions. The Kennel Club in England registered their first Poodle in , with the first British club for Poodle fanciers arriving on the scene two years later. The Poodle Club of America was founded in , but disbanded shortly thereafter. Poodle enthusiasts reestablished the club in .Poodles were fairly rare in the U. By the mids, however, the Poodle had become the most popular breed in the country, a position he held for more than 20 years. Poodle Size There are three sizes of Poodle: toy, miniature, and standard. The Toy Poodle stands up to 10 inches tall, and weighs about six to nine pounds. The Miniature Poodle stands 11 to 15 inches tall and weighs 15 to 17 pounds. The Standard Poodle stands 15 inches and taller usually 22 inches ; males weigh 45 to 70 pounds and females weigh 45 to 60 pounds. Some owners and breeders think the smaller Toy and Miniature Poodles are a bit more high-strung than the Standard; however, other breeders and owners disagree with this theory. An outstanding trait of the Poodle is his intelligence. He is often said to have human-like intelligence, an amazing cleverness that astounds his owners. Of course, smart dogs can be difficult to live with. They learn fast — good habits and bad — and they remember everything. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. More severe signs occur when a dog is stressed or when potassium levels get high enough to interfere with heart function, causing severe shock and death. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus: Commonly called bloat, this is a life-threatening condition that affects large, deep-chested dogs like Poodles, especially if they are fed one large meal a day, eat rapidly, drink large volumes of water after eating, and exercise vigorously after eating. Bloat occurs when the stomach is distended with gas or air and then twists. The dog is unable to belch or vomit to rid itself of the excess air in its stomach, and the normal return of blood to the heart is impeded. Blood pressure drops and the dog goes into shock. Without immediate medical attention, the dog can die. Suspect bloat if your dog has a distended abdomen, is salivating excessively and retching without throwing up. He also may be restless, depressed, lethargic, and weak with a rapid heart rate. Cushings Disease Hyperadrenocorticism : This condition occurs when the body produces too much cortisol. It can be due to an imbalance of the pituitary or adrenal gland, or it can occur when a dog has too much cortisol resulting from other conditions. Common signs are excessive drinking and urination. If your Poodle exhibits these two symptoms, take it to the veterinarian. There are treatments to help with this disease, including surgery and medication. Epilepsy: A common cause of seizures in all varieties of Poodles is idiopathic epilepsy. It often is inherited and can cause mild or severe seizures. Seizures may be exhibited by unusual behavior, such as running frantically as if being chased, staggering, or hiding. Seizures are frightening to watch, but the long-term prognosis for dogs with idiopathic epilepsy is generally very good. Canine hip dysplasia is inherited, with environmental factors sometimes playing a large part in its development. Over time, there is degeneration of the joint that can cause arthritis and pain, even lameness. Excess weight, excessive or prolonged exercise before maturity, a fast growth rate, and high-calorie or supplemented diets can contribute to the development of canine hip dysplasia. Veterinary care includes nutritional supplements, medication and, in some cases, surgery. Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism is caused by is an under active thyroid gland. Legg-Perthes Disease: This is another disease involving the hip joint. Many toy breeds are prone to this condition. When your Poodle has Legg-perthes, the blood supply to the head of the femur the large rear leg bone is decreased, and the head of the femur that connects to the pelvis begins to disintegrate. Usually, the first signs of Legg-Perthes, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, occur when puppies are 4 to 6 months old. The scar tissue that results from the surgery creates a false joint and the puppy is usually pain free. Patellar Luxation: The patella is the kneecap. Luxation means dislocation of an anatomical part as a bone at a joint. Patellar luxation is when the knee joint often of a hind leg slides in and out of place, causing pain. This can be crippling, but many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind. As the disease progresses, they lose sight during the day. Many affected dogs adapt to their limited or loss of vision very well, as long as the surroundings remain the same. Optic Nerve Hypoplasia: This condition is a congenital failure if development of the optic nerve. It causes blindness and abnormal pupil response in the affected eye. This genetic condition is difficult to diagnose and often is mistaken for hypothyroidism, allergies, or other conditions. When a dog has SA, the sebaceous glands in the skin become inflamed for unknown reasons, and are eventually destroyed. These glands typically produce sebum, a fatty secretion that aids in preventing drying of the skin. Affected dogs typically have dry, scaly skin with hair loss on top of the head, neck, and back. Severely affected dogs can have thickened skin and an unpleasant odor, along with secondary skin infections. Although the problem is primarily cosmetic, it can be uncomfortable for the dog. Your vet will perform a biopsy of the skin if SA is suspected. Treatment options vary. The main symptom is excessive bleeding after an injury or surgery. Other symptoms include nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or bleeding in the stomach or intestines. There is no cure, and a blood transfusion from the blood of normal dogs is currently the only treatment. Research is underway for new treatments, including medication. A vet can test your dog for the condition. Dogs with this condition should not be bred. Poodle Care Poodles do just fine in any type of home, from apartments to estates, so long as they have regular exercise and plenty of human companionship. They prefer to live indoors with the family, particularly the smaller Toy and Miniature Poodles, since they have no trouble getting their ya-yas out in the house. That goes for Toy and Miniature Poodles as well. Many owners of small dogs skip training, and wind up with a badly behaved dog. Poodle Feeding Recommended daily amount: Standards, 1. Note: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. Limit treats, keep him active, and feed in meals rather than leaving food available at all times. Keep your Poodle in good shape by measuring his food and feeding him twice a day rather than leaving food out all the time. First, look down at him. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on his back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see his ribs without having to press hard. For more on feeding your Poodle, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. Many allergic people are able to keep a Poodle with no reaction. The hair is curly, wiry, and dense, and this unique texture can be trimmed, clipped, groomed, shaved, and otherwise manipulated into all kinds of fanciful shapes. Poodles are high-maintenance dogs. He requires regular grooming, every three to six weeks, sometimes more often, to keep the coat in good condition. If you are considering a Poodle, consider the upkeep of the coat and expense of grooming. There are many ways to style the coat for easier care. In fact, many owners simply shave it off. Even when clipped short, your Poodle will need to be brushed , bathed , and trimmed every three to six weeks, sometimes more often, to keep the coat clean, short, and tangle free. Even if you let a professional handle the complicated stuff, your Poodle needs daily brushing. Many Poodles have weepy eyes that stain the hair under their eyes. To cut down on staining, wipe around the eyes and face every day with an alcohol-free pet wipe or washcloth dampened with warm water. Breeds with drop-down ears are prone to ear infections because the ear canal stays dark and moist. Sometimes, this hair needs to be plucked. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep the feet in good condition and prevent your legs from getting scratched when your Poodle enthusiastically jumps up to greet you. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and touch dogs, and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog, no matter how friendly, should ever be left unsupervised with a child. Poodles who grow up with other dogs or pets in the house — or who have plenty of opportunities to interact with them in group training classes, dog parks, and the like — will enjoy their company. If your Poodle is used to being the only pet in the household, however, he may need some time and special training to help him accept a newcomer. Poodle Rescue Groups Poodles are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Poodles in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. Life Span Did You Know? Although the Poodle is the national dog of France, they actually originated in Germany over years ago where they were commonly used as a duck hunter. Their curly coat protected them from the elements and they were bred for their excellent swimming skills, high intelligence, and incredible retrieval skills. The Poodle comes in three sizes — Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Throughout history, this dog breed has served many purposes. From living in the lap of luxury as companions to nobility to working out in the field as a valuable hunting companion to entertaining people in circuses around the world, the Poodle is right at home. Although they are more popular as a companion dog, the Poodle still maintains their athleticism and working dog instincts. Poodles are known for their intelligence, cheerful disposition, and sensitive nature. They are versatile dogs that make great family companions. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their sensitive nature, they tend to be a better fit for older children who understand how to approach and interact with a dog appropriately. These dogs prefer peace and harmony in the household, so very young children that are too loud or rough can stress them out. The Standard Poodle also tends to be quite energetic until they are about two years old and may be prone to knock over small children in their excitement. Standard Poodles also tend to make great watchdogs and have some protective instincts. Without proper socialization, they can become skittish, nervous, and wary of strangers. Making sure any puppy is socialized early and often helps them grow into a confident, well-rounded dog. Standard Poodles are highly adaptable dogs. Their energy level tends to make them better-suited for larger homes with room for them to run. But, they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they receive the exercise, mental stimulation, and affection that they need. They tend to do well in most climates. As with most dog breeds, they are sensitive to very hot and very cold weather. These dogs are in-tune with their owners and thrive on human companionship and affection, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Poodles are a relatively healthy dog breed, but there are some potential health concerns to be aware of. Because of their larger, barrel-chested body type, the Standard Poodle is also at risk for bloat. Responsible breeders will screen and test their stock to ensure the genetic propensity for breed-related conditions is not passed along to the puppies. Poodles are highly intelligent, sensitive, and eager to please their owners. They are highly trainable, pick up things quickly, and are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Because they are sensitive and in-tune with their owners, they respond best to consistent, positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Poodle coats are curly or corded and come in a wide variety of colors. Although Poodles are known for their low-shedding, hypoallergenic coats, their coats still require a lot of maintenance. Keeping your Poodle in a short clip can help reduce daily maintenance, but still requires regular professional grooming every four to six weeks to maintain it. A longer coat requires daily brushing in order to prevent matting in addition to professional grooming every four to six weeks. Regular professional grooming often helps with this as nail trimming should be done monthly, at least, to keep nails from growing too long. Dental care for dogs , like brushing their teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, is essential to protecting them from painful dental diseases like gum disease and tooth decay. You, your dog, and your groomer will thank you for it! Who knows? If you ensure these experiences stay positive, they could even become a bonding time that your dog enjoys. These are high energy dogs that require a good amount of exercise and mental stimulation every day in order to be happy and healthy. They love to stay busy and may enjoy running with you, going for a swim, taking trips to the dog park , hiking with you, and more. They also tend to be a good fit for several dog sports, such as agility, dock diving, obedience, flyball, tracking, and more. A fully-grown Standard Poodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They can be slightly smaller than the usual as the Standard size is denoted by being more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder. A Standard Poodle generally lives years. Featured Standard Poodle Article.

How does the Labradoodle growth chart work? The following numbers are estimates based on the litter of a Labrador Retriever crossed with a standard Poodle. If your pup's Poodle parent is a toy size, then they are likely to be significantly smaller than these estimates. Their health is what matters most, so if you have questions or concerns about your puppy's development, reach out to your veterinarian. At what age is a Labradoodle fully grown? Labradoodles typically need 12 to 18 months to reach their full size, especially if their parents were on the heavier side of the average weight spectrum. Large breeds grow slower and take longer to reach their full size compared to small and medium-sized dog breeds, which usually reach maturity within nine to 11 months. How big should a 6-month-old Labradoodle be? A 6-month-old Labradoodle may weigh anywhere between 40 and 55 pounds. As a general rule, male Labradoodles weigh more than their female counterparts. In terms of height, a 6-month-old Labradoodle puppy will stand around 14 to 18 inches tall at the shoulders, but this varies based on their genetic makeup. Pro Tip: Download our new puppy checklist for tips on how to set up a vaccination schedule, essential pet care supplies, and more. How much bigger will my Labradoodle get? There are a few ways you can estimate how much more your Labradoodle may grow. Most Labradoodles need anywhere from 12 to 18 months to reach their full size. If your pup is younger than a year old, they are likely still growing. Refer to our Labradoodle weight chart to estimate how many more pounds they might put on as they mature into adulthood. If they look oversized compared to their limbs, then they're probably still filling out. Oversized paws are a classic puppy feature indicating that your pup still has more growth underway. Lastly, if you purchased your puppy from a breeder, you can contact them about your Labradoodle's weight. Alhough the breed varies greatly in size, knowing the weight of your puppy's parents and those of previous litters can help you predict your Labradoodle's adult size. What is the size of a full-grown Labradoodle? As a hybrid dog breed, Labradoodles vary significantly in size based on their geneology. Per Agape Labradoodles , adult Labradoodles typically weigh over 45 pounds, with some Labradoodles weighing as much as pounds. However, most Labradoodles will weigh between 50 and 90 pounds. In [terms of height], Labradoodles stand 21 to 24 inches tall when measured from paw to shoulder, or approximately two feet excluding their neck and crown of the head. How do I make sure my Labradoodle is healthy? Our Labradoodle puppies are important, cherished family members who we want the best for. One of the best ways to help your Labradoodle thrive is by taking them to regular veterinary appointments to have them routinely checked out and evaluated. Prevention is always better than treatment, and regular veterinary exams provide your veterinarian with the opportunity to screen your Labradoodle for disease. Your puppy will need to see the veterinarian several times in their first six months of life for core vaccinations against things like Rabies, and then at least once a year as an adult for annual health check-ups. Like their parents, Labradoodles are also more susceptible to hip dysplasia , a common orthopedic condition that occurs when the hip joint forms improperly. Hip dysplasia can lead to pain in their back legs, impaired mobility, and even lameness if not treated - fortunately, the condition is treatable with surgery. When over 20, pet parents were surveyed, only .As loving pet parents, it can be devastating to think that our four-legged friend could develop a painful disease that requires expensive treatment. This is where pet insurance comes in. Most pet parents opt for accident and illness pet insurance plans as they cover both injuries and most illnesses, such as hip dysplasia or eye diseases. Pet wellness plans can be added to your insurance coverage to help you pay for preventive veterinary care, like your regular vet exams, x-rays , dental cleanings , vaccinations, and more. Like humans, dogs are living longer, which creates an even bigger need for excellent veterinary care so that our dogs can live their happiest and healthiest lives. Pet insurance helps alleviate the financial strain that's often caused by vet visit costs. If your Labradoodle puppy gets sick or hurt, you and your veterinarian can work together to provide your pup with the best treatment plan - without worrying about how much it might cost. Key Takeaways Adult Labradoodles weigh pounds on average. The parent Poodle breed has toy and standard size variations that impact the size of the offspring, along with other genetic factors. Most Labradoodles grow until months of age. The breed is known for several congenital health disorders, and is especially prone to hip dysplasia. Pet insurance can protect your puppy and provide a financial safety net for vet costs throughout their life. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. 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. The Labradoodle was one of the very first designer dogs. The first planned Labradoodle litters were born in Australia in the late s. A Labradoodle has the potential to be a great family pet, and so they have remained one of the most popular mixed breed dogs. Although these curly haired dogs are frequently described as hypoallergenic, this is actually a myth. However, they do usually shed less than other breeds. If they are your first puppy, you might be surprised just how much time and energy is required to care for something so small. Even though this is an exciting time, it can also be frustrating. Challenges include everything from housebreaking and crate training to socialization and constant chewing. Remember that everything is brand new for your furry companion. Consistency and schedules are key to meeting navigating the next few weeks and not getting overwhelmed. Like any mixed breed, there is an element of unpredictability when it comes to what a Labradoodle puppy will look like. They can take on a combination of traits from either parent, and even within a single litter, puppies can vary in size and appearance. The list of colors they can come is almost endless. Labradoodle puppies with a Standard Poodle parent typically weigh between 7 and 12 lbs at 8 weeks of age. But miniature Labradoodle puppies may only weigh 4 to 7 lbs. Just like for human babies, sleep is very important for puppies. To help them settle overnight in your home, keep them in a crate or high-sided box by your bed for the first few nights. Potty Training Your 8 Week Old Labradoodle For most people, potty training is the first hurdle when they get home with a new puppy. At 8 weeks old you can expect your Labradoodle to need to pee at least every 2 hours. Young dogs have small bladders, and very little conscious control over when they go. Even the most diligent puppy parents find a few wet spots on their floor at the beginning, but visiting the backyard regularly will keep accidents to a minimum. Be consistent and praise your pup whenever he uses the toilet in the right place. Clean up mistakes quietly and without scolding. They might also overcome that fear by hiding from you to pee indoors. Feed your puppy the same food they had with the breeder for about 2 weeks. Then slowly mix it with the new food, gradually increasing the proportion of new food over the course of a week. For the time being, an 8 week old puppy needs their daily ration of food divided into four meals. But you might use most of it up as training treats! It can also trigger short spell of diarrhea. Small, regular meals prevent hypoglycemia, which is when blood sugar levels become dangerously low. Your pup also needs a food which is designed to meet the specific nutritional needs of growing puppies. This will protect him against conditions like hip dysplasia. Hip dysplasia is a malformation of the hip joint. There are hereditary and environmental factors which can make it worse — and one is if their diet causes their bones to grow faster than the cartilage in between them. An 8 week old Labradoodle will have all their baby teeth, and though tiny, they are very sharp and deliver a painful nip! Wear close fitting clothes in sturdy fabrics, and shoes without laces for the time being. If they try to chew your fingers, take your hands away and give them a suitable substitute like a chew toy. Puppy biting generally ceases at around 6 months once they have all their adult teeth. Crate Training Your 8 Week Old Labradoodle When done properly, crate training provides a safe den for your puppy to rest in. It can also help with toilet training, and keeping your puppy safe while your bring in groceries or take a shower. And 8 weeks old is a great age to start this process. To ensure he views his crate as an inviting place to be, furnish it with a cozy blanket and treats. From 3 weeks old until about 12 weeks old, puppies are in an important phase called the socialization window. They are more open forming positive impressions of the world around them than they ever will be again. So this is the time to introduce them to all the people, places and things they will encounter as adult dogs. Make sure all these introductions are happy lots of treats! And they will carry that happy association with them through the rest of their life. As Your Labradoodle Puppy Grows Labradoodles are known to be sociable, easy-going, devoted, and highly energetic. Training should be positive and consistent. But working out where to start can be bewildering. There are lots of books and online resources available, as well as puppy classes led by qualified dog trainers. The Puppy Parenting course in particular is the perfect guide to preparing for, settling in, and starting training with a new puppy. Tell us all about them in the comments box down below!

I am 5 years and weigh 75 lbs. I live in Homer Glen, IL. All supplies will be included. She is very healthy, well behaved, perfectly house trained, up to date on her shots, spayed and ready to steal your heart. Briggs is very affectionate, friendly and intelligent. She is a bit nervous around kids under 5, so her perfect home will be with a family with older children, a couple or single with lots of time to spend with her. This sweet dog is being rehomed by her owners, who are heartbroken to have to make this very difficult decision. Unfortunately being the parents to two small children with special medical needs has left them little time to take care of Briggs. They feel that it would be better for Briggs to be adored by someone who can give her the time, attention, affection and exercise she needs and deserves. Briggs will be rehomed with all of her doggie belongings. Please offer this deserving dog a forever home today, and help bring a happy ending to this unfortunate situation. She is slightly skittish around children under the age of 5 years old; they move too quickly for her. She is very playful and loves to sit outdoors. She is a very relaxed dog. In the past four years my wife and I have married, had two children, and managed two dogs as well. Space has become an issue; and we feel rehoming is the best solution for Briggs. We have since had two children in two years that have required extensive hospital stays and have special needs that require extra attention. She loves to play catch; with balls and ropes. She will let you know when she is tired and just lay in either the sun or the snow. She loves to take walks through the neighborhood getting a chance to socialize with new people and animals. Her favorite treats are anything bacon flavored! Cute Briggs Story: My mother was watching her as I was traveling during the winter. She took Briggs for a walk and slipped on the ice. No serious injuries to my mother and Briggs sat patiently by her side to ensure she was okay and as she collected herself and got back on her feet. Why is Briggs Being Rehomed? Within the past two years our family has expanded with two children whom were born prematurely. Both have chronic lung disease as a result as well as other special medical situations that require extra attention. Briggs needs to be in a home were time and space are available for her to have the lifestyle she was accustom to prior to tight quarters and small children with special needs. A semi-active home with just the right amount of freedom and stimulation to keep her active and fit. Briggs has lived in both the urban and rural homes and adjusts extremely well to either; as long as she is walked about a mile each day to socialize and exercise she is very content. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Chicago IL? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Chicago IL? One of the reasons for this is that individual Chicago Boxer breeders will choose their price based on their reputation for producing quality pups. The coat and eye color of each pup also makes a difference, as does their pedigree. Am I limited to choosing pups from Boxer breeders in Chicago? Many of the partners in our network are skilled at helping to organize transportation for your new pup. How do you screen breeders with Boxer puppies in Chicago? Our extremely high standards mean that we will only work with the best businesses and companies who produce the best Boxer puppies for sale Chicago. These pups are incredibly well looked after. All of these have to sign our Breeder Pledge which covers all aspects of canine care. How is Uptown Puppies different? When you start searching online for Chicago Boxers for sale, it can be hard to tell the difference between an honest business and a scam. Rather than pay attention to the marketing budget of low-quality breeders, we focus on the quality of each business. What is a puppy mill, exactly? Puppy mills prioritise profit to the detriment of animal welfare. Puppies and mother dogs are kept in awful conditions and have little to no quality of life. While these pups may seem like a bargain, the truth is they can often suffer from debilitating health and behavioral issues. More often than not, this leads to expensive veterinary bills. Can I buy a Boxer for sale in Chicago now? To start your search simply scroll through our listings of available pups and connect with the breeders or businesses with puppies that catch your eye. What country is the Boxer from? The Boxer breed hails from 19th Century Germany, where they were prized as both hunting and guarding dogs. Their blend of intelligence, bravery, and loyalty also made them the perfect dog for military and police work. What can I expect from a Boxer? Boxers are affectionate and loving with their families, but can easily switch into protector and defender mode if they feel their families are being threatened. Their active natures make them perfect for energetic families. How big are Boxers? A Chicago Boxer for sale will mature to be a sizable dog. Once mature, a male Boxer Chicago can stand up to 25 inches tall and weigh up to 80 pounds. Females will be slightly smaller, at .Their enthusiastic and bouncy nature also means you need to provide them with plenty of space! Are Boxers ebay to train? Training sessions with a Boxer for sale Chicago are guaranteed to be a lot of fun! Boxers love to please their owners so make enthusiastic and willing training partners.

The mix will vary from pup to pup depending on which of their parents they take after. Sheepadoodles enjoyed a massive boost in popularity when Meryl Davis and her partner Fedor Andreev, both figure skaters, showed off their pet Sheepadoodle, Bilbo Tootie-Rose Baggins on social media. They inherit the best of both parents, making for a remarkable pooch! More about the Poodle Poodles were extremely popular as pets in the past, especially for upper-class ladies. This was due to the small Poodle size which meant that carrying them around was incredibly easy. Interestingly, they were first bred in Germany to help hunt waterfowl. Their popularity has led many dog breeders to conduct experimental crossbreeding, and one of those successful breeding programs was with the Old English Sheepdog a. Poodle More about the Old English Sheepdog Just like the name suggests, Old English Sheepdogs became popular in the s with farmers who used them to herd sheep and to help control other animals on the farm. For centuries training was for rather heavy tasks around the farm. Sheepadoodles have a fascinating history, as do their parents! But why this combination? As mentioned above, first generation Sheepadoodles inherit the intelligence and active nature of sheepdogs, and the low shedding and friendly nature of the Poodle. They can be very gentle and also tend to be quiet around little ones, which is an excellent trait, especially if your baby needs a nap! The perfect pooch indeed! Thankfully not. Even though they are large, you can make it work. If you live in an apartment, you might be pushing it, but if you commit to some serious exercise every day your new furry friend will be just fine! Standard Sheepadoodles are usually medium to large. As mentioned above the standard-sized Sheepadoodle grows to about 60 to 80 pounds 18 to 30 Kg and a maximum of 16 to 22 inches 40 to 55 cm in height. Sometimes, if the Sheepdog parent is huge, then the Sheepadoodle pup can grow quite a bit larger than other pups. One example is Zammy the therapy dog, which you can watch in this video: Also thrown into the mix are Mini Sheepadoodles that are a mix of Mini Poodles and Standard Sheepdogs. They measure under 20 inches 51 cm in height and weigh between 24 to 44 pounds 11 to 20 kg. Miniature Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called a Micro Sheepadoodle. Mini Sheepadoodles are in demand far and wide due to their utterly adorable good looks and charismatic charm. Mini Sheepadoodle 5 Hey Good Looking! Sheepadoodles have sturdy and solid builds, with square or rounded faces and elongation at the snout. The skull has a broad look and appears dome shaped. They also have signature gorgeous low hanging ears, and their eyes are small and set between medium length hair. Coats can be anywhere between straight and curly. Their different colors also make them a hit with potential owners. Sheepadoodles are born black, white or both. Their colors are separated in well-defined spots that can appear randomly on any part of the body. This makes for some adorable looking puppies, some of whom almost look like Panda bears, which make them even more endearing than they already are. Some Sheepadoodles come in white and red, but these usually cost more. There are also Sheepadoodles that are entirely brown or grey, but these are relatively rare. The parents normally determine the color of the pups. As mentioned in the first paragraph the Sheepadoodles have an average lifespan of about 12 to 15 years. How healthy are they? In general, the Sheepadoodle is a robust dog since it comes from two different purebred dogs. However, they may inherit some tendencies from their parents genetically. However, not all Sheepadoodles are hypoallergenic as it depends on the genes they inherit from their parents. They tend to have a short and curly coat like their Poodle parent and as we said before shed very minimally. Trimming the hairs around their ears is also another thing you can do if you want to help prevent ear infections. Watch how training takes place in this video: They can also be taught to be watchdogs as they can recognize strangers and be trained to bark at them. Training is pretty simple and easy to carry out. Sheepadoodles should have a diet that consists of high-quality kibbles. Once in a blue moon, some wet food is a great idea but take it easy on this one as it may lead to your Sheepadoodle becoming overweight. However, being a designer dog, they are allowed into the following organizations:. They've become more popular in recent years because of their super-friendly personalities, low-shedding coats , and teddy bear-like appearance. Because the sheepadoodle is not a pure breed, there are no hard and fast rules about the dog's size, coloring, and appearance. However, the most common coat you'll find is a black-and-white patchwork pattern. The size of a sheepadoodle varies depending on whether the Old English sheepdog was crossed with a standard poodle , miniature poodle , or toy poodle. Appearance The sheepadoodle can tend toward one parent or the other in appearance—some will have more of the square face of an Old English sheepdog and others will have a more poodle-like domed head. But nearly all sheepadoodles share the patchwork of black and white markings that sometimes give them the appearance of a panda. These black and white markings can sometimes fade into gray similar to an Old English sheepdog's coloring as the sheepadoodle ages. On rare occasions, a sheepadoodle will be red and white. Sheepadoodles bred from mini poodles and toy poodles will be smaller. As with most poodle mixes affectionately termed "doodles" , the coat of a sheepadoodle can tend more to be straight or more curly—and it's generally hard to tell until the puppy gets a little older. Sheepadoodles are often compared to Bernedoodles , which are a mix between a poodle and a Bernese mountain dog. Bernedoodles have a similar giant teddy bear vibe: big fluffy paws; shaggy faces; and furry, floppy ears. However, Bernedoodles come in a greater variety of colors and share more of the Bernese mountain dog's personality traits. Temperament The sheepadoodle owes a lot of her easygoing temperament to the Old English sheepdog, a good-natured, shaggy breed that was developed to help bring cattle and sheep to market. Because of this cross breeding, there can be a pretty wide variety of personality traits depending on the individual dog. They're exceptionally playful and sweet, and they enjoy the company of other dogs. While they might alert you to a passing stranger with a bark , they're typically a little more mellow than breeds developed specifically for guarding the home. While Old English sheepdogs can at times be independent-minded, poodles are typically very eager to please their parents by sitting on cue and learning tricks. Sheepadoodles also inherit a great deal of intelligence from their poodle forebears and have a working dog's herding instincts from the Old English sheepdog side. Living Needs Unless you opt for a mini or a toy mix, sheepadoodles are typically large dogs that will do best in a house with a fenced yard. If you live in an apartment , you should be ready to provide your sheepadoodle with regular exercise. She recommendss finding ways to integrate your dog into your regular activity: bringing them on your runs , neighborhood walks , and hikes through the woods. With their thick coats, sheepadoodles are excellent dogs for cold-weather climates. In warmer climates, Choczynski Johnson says, their owners can trim their fur a bit shorter and make sure they can relax in cool indoor spaces with plenty of water. However, given the sheepadoodles' herding background, they occasionally have a tendency to try rounding up small animals and children, so keep an eye on them at dog parks that allow small dogs and large dogs to mingle. Care While no dog are fully hypoallergenic , the combination of the Old English sheepdog and the poodle results in a very low-shedding coat, even in the first generation. Because of this, sheepadoodles can be a good fit for people who are allergic to dogs. For sheepadoodle grooming, you'll want to keep her coat in great condition, brush her frequently during the week , and have her bathed and trimmed every 8—12 weeks. You'll want to clean her ears regularly of wax and debris and trim her nails , as you would for any dog. Because they become so attached to their families, some sheepadoodles can develop separation anxiety if they're left alone for too long. Bloom suggests using positive reinforcement training from the moment your sheepadoodle puppy gets home. You can gradually increase from second increments until the puppy starts to realize it's not a big deal. If you have to leave your dog at home alone for long hours, look into options like doggy day care or a dedicated walker. As with all breeds that go from tiny puppy to large dog, it's important to start sheepadoodle training with the adult dog in mind: Don't allow or encourage your puppy to do anything you wouldn't want a pound sheepadoodle doing a year from now. Health One potential advantage to a mixed breed dog is hybrid vigor, the idea of relatively lower occurrence of genetic diseases cropping up in offspring from two vastly different genetic lines. Some scientists, however, dispute that hybrid dogs are inherently healthier than their purebred brethren. Whether you're looking for a sheepadoodle or purebred pup, consider a breeder with an excellent track record who does health screening for both parents. That being said, sheepadoodles by all accounts are relatively healthy dogs that live from 12—15 years. As with all large dogs, it's important to know the symptoms of bloat , a condition in which a dog's stomach fills with gas and expands or twists to cut off blood flow to organs. This also helps your puppy learn how to have some independent time and get mental stimulation while eating. History The origins are the sheepadoodle are murky at best: While humans have been cross-breeding dogs as long as there have been breeds, the popularity of sheepadoodles as a special hybrid of their own really only took off in the past decade or so. Some articles indicate that the "doodle" naming convention started in , which is possibly when the mixing of poodles to create a line of low-shedding dogs started to take off. The sheepadoodle's ancestors, however, have long historical roots. Old English sheepdogs were developed in the west of England as drovers, or dogs that helped livestock move along the dusty roads to market. Their tails were docked to indicate that they were working dogs this also kept their tails away from wayward hooves , giving this breed the nickname "bobtail. The curly coat that protected them from chilly water and their superb intelligence made them excellent retrievers. Fun Facts One thing is undeniable: People really, really love their sheepadoodles. Popular sheepadoodle ambassadors on social media include Otis , a big fluffy boy with a small sidekick named Sully; Zammy , a giant floof who also volunteers as a children's hospital therapy dog; and Millie , a mini sheepadoodle who lives in New York and loves to smile for the camera. Bunny the "talking" sheepadoodle is a TikTok star, known for her funny button-speech conversations. The mixed breed took another leap in popularity when Olympic figure skaters Meryl Davis and Fedor Andreev announced that they had adopted a mini sheepadoodle named Bilbo. Was this page helpful? Sheepadoodle Highlights Sheepadoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Old English Sheepdog or Poodle parents. The main colors of Sheepadoodles are a mix of black and white, but they can also be solid black and, in some cases, gray. Sheepadoodles tend to be a great choice for allergy sufferers since this mix is considered a low to non-shedder. They will need to be groomed roughly every eight weeks and must be brushed two to three times a week. Sheepadoodles will need daily walks and games of fetch for exercise. These smart pups will also need to play mentally stimulating games to prevent them from being destructive due to boredom. Their ability to emotionally connect with their owners has made the Sheepadoodle a popular therapy and emotional support dog. However, their need to be around their owners so much makes it difficult to leave them home alone for long periods of time, and they may require a dog walker or doggy daycare. Sheepadoodles are affectionate and even-tempered with children and are just as happy being around kids as they are being around adults. Sheepadoodles get along well with other animals if introduced gradually, calmly, and at an early age. They are naturally intelligent and very social animals and will enjoy the company of other pets in their household. Even though the Sheepadoodle got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the right mixed breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Sheepadoodle rescues, or check with breed specific Poodle or Old English Sheepdog rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Sheepadoodle Size As the Sheepadoodle is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That being said, the Old English Sheepdog parent can be mixed with a standard, miniature, or toy poodle parent, which will affect their size. Seeing as the most common Sheepadoodle pup is one with a Standard Poodle parent, you can expect the dog to be on the larger side. Most Sheepadoodles weigh in at 60 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 22 inches at the shoulder. That said, the other varieties like the toy and mini Sheepadoodles, will be smaller in size. They will enjoy snuggling with you on the couch just as much as they would enjoy going outside for a brisk walk. Some Sheepadoodles will have acquired their herding drive from their Old English Sheepdog parent and will need to burn off energy with plenty of playtime outdoors. They are rather athletic and love to swim, play fetch, and please their owners by learning new tricks. Sheepadoodle puppies are often a bit boisterous and will require training at an early age. Both Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs are known to be very intelligent breeds, making the Sheepadoodle easy to train. They respond best to positive reinforcement and treats as rewards. These obedient dogs will also love to be taught a variety of tricks, especially because they need to be mentally stimulated. Their ability to emotionally connect with their owners has made the Sheepadoodle not only a very loyal companion, but they have become a popular therapy and emotional support dog. They adore children and adults alike, and will quickly become a wonderful addition to any family. However, their need to be around their owners so much makes it difficult to leave your Sheepadoodle home alone for long periods of time, and they may require a dog walker or doggy daycare. Sheepadoodle Health The Sheepadoodle may be a mixed breed, but they are still predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Poodle and Old English Sheepdog face. While most are generally healthy, many can inherit conditions that both parent breeds have, which is why it is very important to maintain good care and attend regular veterinary checkups. Some of the more common health problems Sheepadoodles suffer from include: Bloat. But this is pretty speculative. Because it all started with their parent breeds, the Poodle and Old English Sheepdog. Although this herding dog is believed to have originated in the west of England. Interestingly enough the first documentation of the dog comes not from the written record, but from the art world. Many believe that an 18th century painting by Thomas Gainsborough features a dog resembling the Old English Sheepdog. This breed was used for generations as a hard working, herding dog. But today they have found a firm place as companions in family homes too. Some believe it be descended from French ancestors while others think that its ancestral roots lay in Germany. The poodle comes in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. The Standard, most often used to create the Sheepdog Poodle mix, is the largest of the three and was originally used in the hunting field. Like the Old English Sheepdog, the Standard Poodle is also now commonly found living happily in homes around the world. Fun facts about Sheepdog Poodle mix The Sheepadoodle is best known for a pretty amazing disguise — as a panda! The markings on this giant cutie really stand out from the crowd. These easy-going fur balls are usually black and white in appearance, often having one or both eyes ringed by a large patch of black fur. Topping off their cuddly look is an adorable, dark, prominent nose. Sheepadoodle coats are often mainly white in front and black on the tail end. Some pups are nearly all white or all black. Often with random splotches of the opposite color. Then again, there are some adorable Sheepadoodle full grown who resemble a giant tub of yummy chocolate chip ice cream! Sheepadoodle Size Standard poodles max out at around 65 pounds and 21 inches in height. Old English Sheepdogs stand on average around two feet in height. Males reach approximately 22 inches-plus, while females stand around 21 inches and over. These large dogs carry a good amount of weight on their frame, with anything between 60 and pounds the norm. A standard Sheepdog Poodle mix could be anywhere within these limits. And his temperament can vary too. Sheepdog Poodle mix temperament The Sheepadoodle personality will be influenced by the genetic makeup of the Poodle and the Old English Sheepdog. In an ideal world, every cross breed would express only the very best qualities of each parent. But in reality as we know from our own lives! The Old English Sheepdog is praised for its gentle nature and adaptability. The large breed can be a mellow housedog, but these are big dogs that enjoy exploring and regular walks. Sheepdogs greatly enjoy being included in family time and along with the Poodle can do well with children provided that they are socialized and trained early. Old English Sheepdogs do not relish being separated from their humans and they may become destructive if left by themselves for extended periods of time. Like the Poodle, the Old English Sheepdog is a fast learner and he is an obedient dog. Poodles rank near the top in canine intelligence and are highly trainable. They enjoy pleasing their owners and retain an alert sensitivity which means they will tell you when strangers approach. Poodles have a reputation for being high strung but in fact they have naturally low levels of aggression. Training your Sheepadoodle Early socialization and positive reinforcement training techniques will go a long way. Punishment based training is not recommended and can be dangerous since it can actually mask signs of troubling behavior. Most Sheepadoodle owners describe their pups as sociable, playful, people-oriented, and displaying a sweet disposition. It is important to remember Sheepadoodle temperament could be on either end of the spectrum, or a mixture of both. Large, rambling Sheepdogs need an outlet for their physical nature. They are big, enthusiastic dogs and require proper training to curb what could easily turn into rowdy, unwanted behavior. For example, some may try to herd smaller animals or children! Poodles maintain moderate levels of energy and like to keep busy, especially mentally. They will also need company. This is not usually a dog that will be happy to be left during alone all day while you work. But keep them busy and company, and they have a good chance of being a charming companion. Your Sheepadoodle can be expected to be at risk from some of the same health issues as his parents. Both breeds are well structured. Their legs are not too short. And their muzzles are a good length. These are important features in any puppy. But there are diseases associated with each breed. Make sure your breeder has used parents health tested against the conditions common to each of them. Old English Sheepdogs health Hip dysplasia, eye disease, and hypothyroidism are all issues to be aware of with Old English Sheepdogs. Hip dysplasia is not uncommon in large breeds. It can affect one or both hips, and cause pain and stiffness. Both the Old English Sheepdog and Poodle parents should have good hip scores. Progressive retinal atrophy is an inherited eye condition in which the retina deteriorates leading to vision loss. A dog with PRA may eventually lose both day and nighttime vision. Blind dogs are capable of adapting, but this is a disease that can and should be avoided. Unfortunately Poodles are prone to dermatological issues including sebaceous adenitis , a condition affecting the glands that lubricate the hair follicles and skin. The condition is frequently misdiagnosed as hypothyroidism, complicating treatment. What you can do is make sure they are each health tested for the problems that may affect their breed to reduce the chance of this being inherited by your pup. How long do Sheepadoodles live? Old English Sheepdogs live around 11 years and Standard Poodles 12 years. Given the encouraging fact that mixed breed dogs tend to live a little longer, the average Sheepadoodle lifespan should therefore hopefully be in excess of 12 years. Feeding your Sheepdog Poodle mix Your Sheepadoodle is likely to be quite a large dog. And large breed puppies need special attention when it comes to their diet. These can be exacerbated by rapid growth. You also need to be aware of the potential for bloat, which may also be reduced by giving smaller meals and helping your pup to slow down their pace. Choose a large breed puppy food, and when they reach the cut off for your chosen brand swap them over to a large breed adult food too. How curly will depend on how much the puppy takes after the poodle parent. Old English Sheepdogs have a lovely long shaggy coat that can rightfully be described as high maintenance. Busy modern owners often lack the time or money needed to maintain a healthy, robust coat. A poodle coat is a little different. But still requires quite a bit of care. It sheds less fur than a looser coat It need regular clipping unless you are a very keen groomer Poodles are a popular pet choice for people sensitive to dog hair. This is due to their reputation for a hypoallergenic coat. However, they are not completely allergen free. And neither are their mixes. And part of the reason for that reputation is the way that the poodle fur grows. Shedding and curly hair Poodles do shed , but what happens next is the cause for their hypoallergenic reputation. Curly dog hair tends to stay trapped in the coat as it sheds. And Poodles do not have a high-maintenance undercoat. This leaves less hair on your carpet. But there can be problems. The shed hair is still there on the dog. And that trapped hair can result in matting. Unless brushed daily — and thoroughly! No guarantees for allergy sufferers So, there is no guarantee your Poodle mix will have a hypoallergenic coat. Your puppy will probably have looser curls than a Poodle. These are easier to groom. But they may have tighter curls like a Poodle Either way, the chances are they will need clipping professionally. A trip to the groomer every few weeks will usually include a bath. Which is good as Sheepadoodles may drool! A grooming routine Puppies groomed from an early age are much happier and easy to manage. Be sure to get them used to being groomed from an early age regardless. And of course you always have the option of keeping their coat clipped short, for an easier to manage regime. Do Sheepadoodles make good family pets? The Sheepadoodle is a bold choice when it comes to a family pet. Due to their potentially large size and potentially rather difficult to manage coat. However, with great socialization and diligent health testing of their parents, it is possible to turn this fluffy bear dog into a good family pet. Poodles and Old English Sheepdogs alike are not overly pushy with people, but are still very loyal and loving to their families. Rescuing a Sheepdog Poodle mix Sheepadoodles do come into dog shelters and rescue societies from time to time. There are pros and cons to rescuing but many people find it to be a good experience. Make sure you get plenty of information from the rescue center. A good rescue center will have temperament tested your dog. If you have lots of time and love to give, you are doing a wonderful thing by giving a homeless dog a place to lay their head. However, your best for finding an adult dog with this cross bred background is to contact your local Old English Sheepdog and Poodle rescues separately. While their name would imply otherwise, these dogs were first bred to herd cattle, not sheep. It arrived in the United States in the s where it became a popular show dog. In fact, at the time, five of the ten richest families in the United States were breeding and showing the Old English Sheepdog. Eventually, Poodles made their way from the lake to the life of luxury as they were the breed of choice by French nobles, and eventually royalty across all of Europe. To this day, the Poodle is still the national dog of France. The Toy Poodle started in the United States in the early 20th century to be a city-dwelling companion dog. Army in creating a new breed of military dog. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. Sheepadoodles come in three main sizes—micro or toy , mini, and standard. A Micro Sheepadoodle will weigh in at less than 25 pounds and stand roughly inches tall. A Mini Sheepadoodle is one step bigger at pounds and inches in height. The largest of the three, the Standard Sheepadoodle, will weigh approximately pounds or even more! Their fur can range anywhere from straight, like the Old English Sheepdog to curly like the Poodle and usually is of longer length. A minimum of brushing once per week is required for Sheepadoodles, with the ideal frequency being every other day if not every day for more curly-haired dogs. Are Sheepadoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Sheepadoodles Shed? While this can be true, due to the unpredictability of genetics, there is no guarantee that any particular dog, or litter of dogs will be hypoallergenic. So an F1BB Sheepadoodle .However, due to the genetic diversity from crossing these two breeds, the result may be a lower chance of developing these inherited health concerns. Due to the cost of treating these common health concerns, we highly encourage all dog owners invest in pet insurance. We recommend getting a free online quote from Healthy Paws Pet Insurance. Due to their calm and trustworthy nature, they do well with children. Thanks for the independence they get from their Old English Sheepdog heritage, they are a bit harder to train than other varieties of Doodles, but still are only moderate difficulty thanks to their intelligence and good nature. Sheepadoodle Dog Breed Activity Requirements: Due to their good nature, Sheepadoodles may not always pester you for exercise. However, they are definitely much happier with ample amounts of it. Black, white, brown, gray, merle Suitable for: Active families, singles, apartments, houses with yards Temperament: Intelligent, friendly, hard-working, sociable, loyal This designer breed is curious, energetic, playful, and loyal. Their sociable personality makes them perfect family pets. They can also get along well in a farm setting. This mixed breed has not been in existence for long, but their parent breeds have. The Old English Sheepdog was developed in the 18th century, and the Poodle was developed in the 15th century. Here is everything that you need to know about the offspring of these two breeds, the Sheepadoodle. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Sheepadoodle Puppies A post shared by Doodles Vibes doodlesvibes Sheepadoodle puppies are adorable but they grow quickly. There is not much time to learn about this breed once you bring them home because of their quick growth. These dogs are great at hunting, agility , and farm work. They also get along well in family environments. Their energy can become troublesome if these dogs are not exercised daily, though. These good-natured dogs are extremely sociable and friendly. They bond deeply with their human companions and act as protectors whenever necessary. Their easygoing personalities make them easily adaptable to a variety of different circumstances and situations. They are natural herders, which may be evident when they are around children or other animals. Although loyal and sociable, Sheepadoodles can be extremely independent and somewhat stubborn. Therefore, obedience training and a regular exercise schedule are important. The bigger the secured yard that they have to spend time in during the day, the happier that they seem to be. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They may try to herd younger kids, so supervision is usually a good idea until the kids are old and big enough to maintain control of the dog. They are protective of all family members, even the kids, but not aggressively so. These dogs can get along with other dogs if socialization is made a priority while they are puppies. They should be introduced to other dogs early on in life and have an opportunity to explore places like dog parks, where they can learn to properly interact with other animals. Their prey could result in chasing when it comes to being around smaller animals, like cats and squirrels. Here is everything that you need to know about feeding, exercising, training, and grooming your pet Sheepadoodle. They can eat up to 4 cups of commercial dry food each day, depending on how much exercise they get. If unlimited food is available, they can easily eat more than what they require for good health. They should be fed two or three regulated meals each day. These dogs require high-protein nutrition to properly fuel their bodies. Look for food that includes chicken or beef as the first ingredient, and avoid food that includes excessive fillers and artificial ingredients. Fresh berries and veggies such as carrots can be offered occasionally as snacks. Clean water should be available 24 hours a day, both inside and outdoors. Walks of at least an hour each day should be a priority whenever the weather permits. Time spent in a secured yard to play, run, and explore every day is also recommended. When the weather does not allow for outdoor exercise, indoor activities such as hide-and-seek, chase, and time playing with puzzle toys should be offered. Otherwise, nothing should ever take the place of long walks to expel energy. Training should take place in a quiet environment where there will be no distractions. Treats and clickers can help ensure that each training session is successful. After basic obedience commands are learned, training can be practiced in social settings regularly to ensure that the obedience is maintained. The Sheepadoodle can also successfully learn how to hunt waterfowl, herd farm animals, and complete agility courses. The younger the dog is when training begins, the more successful that training is bound to be. Their coats should be brushed daily to get rid of debris that is picked up outside and to keep the fur from tangling up. Some Sheepadoodles require trimming once a month or so to keep the fur from growing over the eyes or getting too long to effectively brush. A de-shedding comb can be used during the spring and summer months to keep shedding to a minimum. Sheepadoodles should get enough outdoor exercise to keep their nails naturally trimmed. Their teeth can be brushed regularly to ensure healthy gums and clean breath. Alternatively, dental chews can be offered. Regular visits to the veterinarian, proper exercise, and a healthy diet can help stave off these problems as your pooch ages. Minor Conditions. These dogs offer perks like non shedding fur, a loving and playful temperament, and a teddy bear face! Sheepadoodle Temperament Your average Sheepadoodle is very bright — with a high emotional IQ as well. After all, they are half Poodle — an intelligent breed! These dogs are known to be very playful. Their eagerness to play, socialize, with a love of children. They enjoy a bit of rough housing, making them a great family dog! These dogs are very affectionate, and love to be around and please their owners. F1 means his dad was purebred Standard Poodle, and his mom was purebred Sheepdog. Our situation: we have 4 kids, ages 4 through .We live on a half acre, with a good sized fenced in backyard. I work from home. Zion stopped growing around 75lbs — making him a giant sheepadoodle. Do not underestimate how much brute strength he has! The standard Sheepadoodle dog is between lbs, depending on the size of the parents. The dogs also can be bred in medium and toy size. Think carefully before committing to the giant Sheepadoodle- a smaller sized dog is easier to handle and might be best for you! Look carefully for a business that treats the dogs they breed as family pets. These breeders will take proper steps to hand over healthy, happy Sheepadoodle puppies to you! We spent almost an hour on FaceTime when it came time to pick out our pup from an East Coast breeder, finding out specific temperaments of our pup. I mean!! Can you handle that cuteness?? Training Sheepadoodle Puppies We quickly realized this was like having a toddler again! Two Toddlers: We crate trained him right away highly recommend for your own sanity! We kept his puppy crate in our walk-in pantry, with a blanket over it to make him feel cozy. I like this puppy crate because you can divide it in the middle, so a puppy still feels cozy and safe! The bottom is a tray that slides out. We could clean accidents easily without a mess. The crate helped set order, gave Zion somewhere safe to go, and made house training easier. Sheepadoodle puppies are particularly easy to house train. Buy the crate we used for Zion as a pup: Have you ever seen a crate big enough for a full size 75lb dog? This is our current XL crate that we bought after Zion outgrew his puppy crate around 10 months old. It is huge! As a home decor blogger this crate was cramping my style! Crate Training Schedule Keep a blanket over the crate at all times. His first few weeks his schedule was: In his crate around pm, we left him there all night Took him out at 6am to potty in the yard Breakfast and lots of playtime. Sheepadoodles puppies nip more than other breeds because they are herding dogs. These dogs have a natural instinct to nip to keep their sheep in line! For the first few months, Zion would follow around our 5 year old Leo and nip his clothes and hands all day. This was frustrating for us! Thankfully, Zion no longer nips, but it was work to break the habit and took almost the full first year. Serious redirecting by constantly giving him his favorite bully sticks to chew instead every time he wants to nip you. To a herding dog, the desire to herd animals is also the desire to herd any humans in the house, too. Luckily, sheepadoodles live to please and you can train them to control this urge! Learning the basic commands like sit and stay is a breeze with a sheepadoodle. This is the first step to controlling their instinct to herd. Direct the dog to stop and sit when they want to herd. Stop the herding before it begins is the most helpful. Sternly intervene when you see the dog wanting to herd each time. Once the dog understands herding is disapproved by his owner, you can make sure not running after kids and others becomes a habit. Do Sheepadoodles Shed? No, Sheepadoodle dogs are not supposed to shed. I was NOT pleased. Zion goes every 6 weeks to the groomer for a bath and cut, and every 3 weeks he goes in for just a bath. Regular baths and trims keeps their teddy bear look. Sometimes we bathe him ourselves. I LOVE and swear by this whitening shampoo to keep the white in his coat super bright white instead of off white or dingy. I just started buying the bigger jar here to save money on it, since we use it regularly. After a recommendation from my brother in law, we bought this high quality pin brush off Amazon — night and day from the cheap pet store plastic brushes! If you read the reviews you will know why. For his mats specifically, we like this slicker brush. You can go back and forth on the mats quickly and it untangles them without Zion even noticing. The pet store brushes were getting stuck in the actual mat and pull. Between those two brushes, you will never have to buy your dog another brush again! Splurge on the good brushes once, than buy a lifetime of cheapies from the pet store. For his teeth, our vet suggested giving him Greenies every few days to help with tartar control and his breath. It takes him a few minutes to chew them and he enjoys the taste. This guy needs serious speed and playtime. If the kids are outside playing, he wants to be there. He is all about that frisbee life! Any sort of high energy, running fast and playing keep away with the ball — Sheepadoodles live for that. This toy is indestructible and flies like a Frisbee! A good game of tug-a-wore followed by some fetch with the Chuck It Toy is favorite activity. It comes with little bags that are attached to the scooper, so the poop is collected directly into the bag. We recently started attaching old grocery bags to the scooper; they work just as well. We are his people and he just wants to be in the same room as us. That is usually his priority! We taught our kids how to be respectful. But the truth is, Zion really just wants to play with the kids at allllll times. This playfulness is a trait of Sheepadoodles and why we were so attracted to the dogs to begin with! Zion has attached himself to our oldest child more than anyone. He sleeps with him and he likes to come pick up the kids from school in the afternoons- mostly so he can sit in his lap all the way home. His love for him is heartwarming stuff! Pros and Cons Of Owning a Sheepadoodle Pros Extremely social He loves to interact and be near us Smart Easy to train, so quick to be housebroken Emotionally smart High emotional IQ so he picks up on our feelings — would make a popular therapy dog Hypoallergenic, no shedding Great temperament Playful, loving, gentle, confident, and obedient! No obnoxious barking, whining or anxiety. Your Sheepadoodle will be sad, lonely and destructive left alone. They need to be around people! Expensive grooming and regular upkeep to keep the fur from matting Herding The dog will have to be trained out of this instinctual behavior Nipping Another instinctual behavior to deal with Some chewing issues — not a lot Our Sheepadoodle has been trained to leave our home alone, but he did go to town on my rug as a pup. We have his favorite bully sticks out for him. These have been his favorite chews since day 1 and they last a little while, which is nice. Life Span Did You Know? A Sheepadoodle can be an F1 or an F1b. F1 Sheepadoodles are a first generation, which means their parents are an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. They are often confused, at least in name, with Shepadoodles, but they are not the same dog. Shepadoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a German Shepherd. Sheepadoodles are beautiful dogs inside and out. They tend to be extremely friendly and absolutely love their families. Because they are mixed with a Poodle, there is a chance that their coat will be low-shedding. Their kind disposition and energetic personality make them a good fit for families. Although they are not purebred dogs, and therefore are not recognized by the AKC, they are recognized by other dog registries and clubs. In addition to making a great family pet, Sheepadoodles also make great therapy dogs. A well-socialized Sheepadoodle is an intelligent and active dog who tends to be naturally friendly, calm, and sociable. They tend to get along well with other dogs, pets, and children. Sheepadoodles tend to be expressive and intuitive. They seem to innately know how to be gentle and quiet with younger children. They are a combination of a companion and working dog that loves their family and is devoted to them. This dog breed is moderately adaptable. Due to their exercise needs, they tend to be a better fit for homes with large yards. They can adapt to apartment living, as long as they get plenty of serious exercise every day. They tend to do best in moderate and cooler climates, but can adapt to other types. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Because the Sheepadoodle is a mixed breed, they can inherit none of the health issues of their parent breeds or can inherit the health issues from one or both of them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, a Sheepadoodle is also at risk for bloat like their parents. Bloat in dogs can quickly become dangerous, especially if gastric torsion occurs ie: the stomach flips. The Sheepadoodle is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This tends to make them obedient, fast learners who are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although they are alert and natural watchdogs, well-socialized Sheepadoodles tend to be quiet and will have to be trained to bark at strangers. Because they seek the approval of their owners, they tend to be sensitive. Harsh scolding or tones can hurt your bond with them and could cause them to be withdrawn or unresponsive to training. They respond best to positive ongoing training methods that are consistent. The low-shedding coat is one of the reasons why there are so many Poodle mixes. Sheepadoodle coats can vary from straight to curly and coat colors can be any combination of those common in Poodles. This means you can have a Sheepadoodle that is black, brown, gray, white, or a mix of colors. They only need to be bathed as needed, so having it done while at the groomer is usually a good fit. Floppy ears are more likely to trap dirt, debris, and moisture, which makes them more prone to ear infections. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. It is also one of the most preventable. By implementing good dental care for dogs early on, you can decrease the tartar buildup that causes gum disease and tooth decay. A Sheepadoodle is a high-energy dog breed. They need plenty of exercise and structured exercise routines to be happy and healthy. Their high energy and intelligence mean they need a lot of daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Giving them a job to do can help satisfy their working dog tendencies. They also tend to love water, so going swimming with your dog can be a good activity. Because they are also sociable, taking a trip to the dog park could be another great way to get rid of excess energy. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damaging developing joints. Fully-grown Sheepadoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Generally, Sheepadoodles 20 inches or shorter are considered Mini Sheepadoodles. Sheepadoodles generally live for years on average. Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called Sheepdoodles, Sheepdogpoos, Sheepposs, and Sheep-a-poos. Featured Sheepadoodle Article.

Located on the East Coast of the United States, North Carolina is known for its scenic landscapes, bustling cities, and an abundance of dog-friendly activities. Our mission is to connect you with the most outstanding NC German Shepherd breeders and puppies for sale in the region, ensuring you find the perfect addition to your family. Our site features a wide variety of reputable breeders who specialize in raising healthy and happy puppies. Our North Carolina breeders are committed to raising the highest quality puppies. They provide their puppies with all the necessary vaccinations and veterinary checkups to ensure they are in the best of health before they go to their forever homes. They also provide ongoing support and advice to ensure a smooth transition for both you and your new furry friend. Explore the vibrant dog-friendly scene in North Carolina, featuring welcoming restaurants, expansive dog parks, and captivating dog shows. For those passionate about dog shows, events like the Tarheel Cluster Dog Show and the Carolina Kennel Club Dog Show offer an opportunity to appreciate the elegance and charm of German Shepherd canines while connecting with fellow enthusiasts. With an estimated 2. At TrustedPuppies. Most of our reputable German Shepherd breeders provide safe and affordable flight delivery, complete with a dedicated flight nanny who accompanies your new pup throughout their journey, ensuring their safety and comfort as they travel to their new home in North Carolina. Many breeders also offer affordable vehicle delivery, utilizing specialized pet delivery services. This option allows your German Shepherd puppy to be transported directly to your door by a professional who understands the unique requirements of pet transportation. Begin your search for the perfect German Shepherd puppy on TrustedPuppies. We have answers. Of course! What makes Uptown different from other places with German Shepherd puppies in Charlotte? One of our main priorities is to make your puppy search as stress-free as possible. To do this, we pre-screen every one of the Charlotte German Shepherd breeders within our network. They all have to sign our Breeder Pledge, which details our expectations in terms of breeding ethics, healthcare, and looking after those adorable pups! Are there any Charlotte German Shepherd puppies for sale right now? But be warned, these little pups are seriously in demand, so they can get reserved in a very short space of time. Once you see a pup you like, we recommend contacting their breeder as soon as you can. Do you have the cheapest German Shepherds for sale Charlotte? Setting out to buy the cheapest puppy can end up in heartbreak. Those cheap puppies that seem like a bargain are often poorly bred in puppy mills, and can suffer from both behavioral issues and ongoing health problems. When you buy a puppy, remember their price is a reflection of the time, dedication, and expertise it takes to breed them! Uptown is pro-shelter, and we think every single dog deserves to find a loving home. And only you can make that decision! How do I know that my German Shepherd for sale in Charlotte will be healthy? As well as having a robust breeding program, our partners will give each of their puppies the best healthcare too! Is it enough to walk German Shepherd puppies Charlotte, or do they need more exercise? German Shepherds are known for their high energy levels, so these dogs need regular, active walks. Just as important is to make sure your dog gets plenty of opportunities to use their brains as well. Training sessions, plenty of play time and learning new tricks and commands will keep your German Shepherd happy in body and mind. Will a German Shepherd for sale Charlotte make a good family dog? German Shepherds absolutely adore being part of a loving family. They will shower you all in affection as well as watching over you loyally. What will a Charlotte German Shepherd for sale be like to train? The German Shepherd is one of the best working breeds in the world. Signing up for puppy training classes will help you find the methods that suit your puppy best, as well as give you lots of opportunities to find out just how smart they are. We are a small family operated kennel located in the Northern Piedmont area of North Carolina. I only have dogs with excellent temperaments, good minds, strong character and nerves, nice structure and willing to please attitudes. Puppies will all have plenty of drive for training and working, but not over the top prey-monster types. Some will have more drive than others and will be very suited to sport, police K9, and other working endeavors. While other puppies will be a bit more laid back and fit in well with families as companion dogs. Over these years Janette has evaluated many hundreds of puppies and has become very adept at pegging what an individual puppy will be like as an adult. Robert Oglesby and Janette Oglesby have been involved with German Shepherd Dogs, puppy care, and training for many years. In her previous life Janette was a veterinary practice manager, veterinary technician, and kennel manager. During the past 15 years she has been evaluating, working, training, titling, and breeding these fabulous dogs. Robert, now retired, has been in veterinary practice for over 32 years and maintains the successful website www. He is responsible for the veterinary care of the dogs. A Little About the German Shepherds Our male and females are often purchased titled or started prospects from Europe after a thorough evaluation. We also use quality outside males for genetic and color diversity. More recently we are breeding, raising, training, then titling our own dogs. Occasionally some of these older puppies or young green dogs are available. Our goal is to be able to offer your family the opportunity to welcome into your home your new best friend and family protector. Coldwater German Shepherds.

Imagine you could come home to a lovable, dedicated, companion for life! If you knew what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy, you could find your next best friend. Before you buy your new best friend, read this information so you know what to look for in buying a healthy, quality German Shepherd puppy. I group them into major categories. Will you show him in conformation? Do you want to work with him in Schutzhund or herding? Or do you want a confident and alert companion? Know exactly what you want from your puppy. These dogs are the least costly since they have a trait that prevents them from winning in conformation competitions. These flaws rarely matter to most pet owners. And many minor faults like flat withers or slightly smaller offset ears will probably go unnoticed by most owners. The vast majority of GSDs are family pets. These dogs make great pets as long as they have sound temperaments! They breed some dogs for certain traits that are highly desirable but considered a fault. For example, long-coat or plush-coat GSDs. Show-quality dogs have good temperament and health. You usually buy them for their breed standard qualities that make them able to compete in confirmation or show events. A show-quality dog may cost significantly more if they have the traits desirable to win at a show. This group comes from Championship show lines with a long history of winning. If you plan on showing your Shepherd this is the quality you want. Beware of any breeder who claims they only raise competition-quality dogs. Even the best breeders produce many pet-quality dogs and if a breeder says they only breed perfect dogs, this is a red flag to not buy from them. The GSD is a herding breed, and the working-quality dogs excel at working trials such as scent competitions and Schutzhund. Other work includes climbing and jumping competitions or searching and tracking. They need mental stimulation to keep them occupied and take a lot of time to handle properly. These dogs are better with experienced handlers since you use them for high drive working and competition. They require hours and years of training and preparation for you to have total control during competition. We base this decision on preference. With the correct upbringing and training, both sexes are loyal companions and good with children. They may grow into more dominant dogs, so a confident handler is more desirable. Males may hike their back legs to mark their territory. This can occur on any object — chairs, walls, couches or even your leg. I suggest an extra bout of socialization during this stage, especially with other well-behaved dogs. So they may be better for the first-time owner. Unspayed females come into season every 6 months, so they must receive monitoring and watch to avoid unwanted pregnancies. Their season time can vary from as little as every 4 months to every 9 months. They can attract males to your property and on walks that will harass them if not spayed. Certain breeders and organizations will deal only in a certain coat length and color. The standard coat length is a short coat with double layers. Guard hairs on the top cover a softer underlayer of hair that provides warmth and protection. But there are many coat lengths available depending on your liking. Look online at the different GSD coat lengths to get an idea of what type of fur you want your dog to have. The longer the fur the more grooming involved. The color you choose is a matter of individual taste. Keep in mind the color of many Shepherds alters from their puppyhood to around 2 years of age. Your dog may become lighter or darker. Perhaps they will lose some of their markings as the color fades into the adult pattern. The best way to know what color and patterns your dog grows into is to see the parents of the litter. If the father is unavailable, then ask for photos. Why should you care where your dog comes from if you only want him as a pet companion? You want to get a dog that will live a long and healthy life from a source that has quality puppies. These tips will help you make the best decision on what type of pup fits in your life. Newspaper and Internet Classified Ads Newspaper and internet ads are in abundance. Many backyard breeders hide behind ads online or in local papers. But some breeders who use newspapers and classified ads are reputable and knowledgeable. The problem is you need to visit them to find out, and this can take time to sift through them all. Try the following more reputable suggestions to save yourself time. Dog Care Professionals Ask dog professionals for recommendations. Check with your local veterinarian, groomer, and boarding kennel personnel if they know reputable breeders in town. These professionals are good sources of quality leads. Use the same caution that you will for a classified ad. Verify their suggestions. Many of these organizations regularly receive puppies they need to re-home. While you might not know the full pedigree of the dog, purebred GSDs find themselves in shelters and rescues from no fault of their own. These organizations are a good resource for your first pup. Before adopting, find out as much information as you can. Was the puppy exposed to children? Did he live with other dogs or cats? A well-organized shelter or rescue helps you choose a German Shepherd match for your lifestyle. Start with looking online for GSD rescues and local shelters. Dog Clubs Dog clubs are local and national. These groups put you into contact with registered breeders through their own programs. They can give you the name of the GSD club contact closest to you for breed contacts. Dog clubs also have dog shows open to the public. This is a good time to watch the breed in action and to ask around for quality breeders. While using a dog club to connect you with a reputable breeder is not the only choice, it is one of the more reliable. If you are using a breeder to choose your German Shepherd puppy, this section will help you know the good from the bad. Use these tips to stay safe. Are selling overpriced or under-priced dogs. Lie to you and say you can make money off your new puppy by breeding them, despite them having flaws. Tells you that the GSD is a dog for everyone, with no disadvantages. Breeds multiple types of dogs and claims to be an expert on them all. If a breeder lets their mothers get pregnant more than once a year, this affects the quality of the puppies, so ask how many litters the mother has. These breeders selling unhealthy puppies also will refuse to take bag their dogs if you need to return them for any reason and have no contracts. They have healthy puppies and will answer your questions and have you make multiple visits. Openly show you where the mother and pups spend their time, including their garden or yard. Tells you the up and downs of owning the breed. Have all pedigree and vet paperwork on hand for your review. Specializes in breeding only GSDs source. They openly share this information with you. They have screened their dogs for health issues and can confirm this with documentation which they proudly give you a copy. Healthy mothers are given rest from breeding, and a reputable breeder gives their mothers time off from reproduction. Ask if your breeder if they are willing to take back their dogs if you cannot keep them, as this is standard for a quality breeder with a good reputation. Make sure your breeder has a written contract with detailed information and health guarantees. These are expected for safe breeding practices. How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy Following this guide gives you the best chance of buying a German Shepherd puppy that suits your lifestyle. Know what you want from your GSD and where to find quality dogs. Learn what to look for when buying a German Shepherd puppy to stay safe from a sick pup and a bad breeder. German Shepherds have their own unique set of challenges. They are a large, active, and intelligent breed that requires an understanding owner who is willing to train their GSD using positive techniques. Devote yourself to their overall health to see the best results and help give you and your dog a lifetime of happiness. Remember, your pup will need mental stimulation to keep their brain active , a gentle exercise program , and need daily love and affection. Buying a German Shepherd puppy is a choice for your whole life that will bring you many years of joy and excitement! Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. 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. 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.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? With their tiny size and heartwarming charm, it's no wonder that these pint-sized pups have gained significant popularity among dog lovers. In this comprehensive guide, we'll delve into the world of Teacup Maltese dogs, providing you with accurate and valuable information. Our goal is to debunk common myths surrounding this.Sporting a shimmering white coat, an agile frame, and an irresistible charm, these dogs are nothing less than captivating. Considered one of the most affectionate breeds in the world today, the Maltese showers its human companions with unwavering love and devotion. This breed's origins trace back to the Mediterranean island nation of Malta, where they held esteemed positions as the pampered pets of aristocracy. Their charming appearance and loving disposition haven't gone unnoticed over the centuries, ensuring their place as a favored companion among dog lovers. The Maltese isn't just about companionship and beauty, though. This breed embodies a vibrant energy and intelligent curiosity, characteristics that are immediately apparent once you meet them. Their lively personality and innate intelligence make them quick learners, and they have a knack for picking up tricks and commands faster than the speed of light. Their most distinctive feature is their illustrious white coat. Silky, straight, and undeniably eye-catching, the Maltese's coat gives them a regal look that belies their small size. Yet, despite the high-maintenance appearance, grooming a Maltese is quite manageable with regular brushing and timely trims. Living with a Maltese promises a delightful experience filled with companionship, lively play sessions, and plenty of affectionate cuddles. They're energetic without being overly demanding, and they're just as content to lounge on your lap as they are to chase after a toy. Questions about Maltipoo puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. Give me a general overview of Maltipoo puppies for sale in Houston TX. The aim within our network of Houston Maltipoo breeders is to keep the best aspects of each parent breed while removing the negative aspects. This means Maltipoo puppies in Houston will be easy to train, intelligent, allergy-friendly, non-shedding, kind and gentle. How much are Maltipoo puppies? The price of Maltipoo puppies for sale in Houston will vary from breeder to breeder. Breeder experience will also influence how much they charge. What if there are no nearby litters? The good news though, is that our extensive network of breeders can fly your puppy to major airports within the Lower 48 states. Your new puppy can ride in style and comfort! How do you screen Maltipoo breeders in Houston? Every day, we receive many applications from puppy companies and breeders of Maltipoo Houston who are keen to join our network. Our rules are extremely strict and we take great pride in protecting the health of every single dog in our network. You can take a look through our Breeder Pledge for more information. How is Uptown Puppies different? We care about puppies and we care about you. We know all too well that when scrolling the internet it can be pretty tricky to tell the honest breeders apart from puppy mills and backyard breeders. Our mission is to help trustworthy and reputable breeders meet kind and loving families looking for the puppy of their dreams. What is a puppy farm or mill? Puppy mills are nasty places. Female dogs are forced to have multiple litters per year, resulting in puppies that are sick, mistreated, or both. Puppies born in mills are much more likely to suffer from both health and behavioral issues, meaning you may pay out thousands of dollars in vet bills, only for your puppy to tragically die too young. Are there any mini Maltipoos for sale in Houston right now? Just browse through our list of Houston Maltipoo puppies for sale. How does Uptown Puppies work? Our goal is to connect you with breeders with Maltipoo puppies Houston who have the best reputations for producing top-quality Maltipoo puppies. When you see a Maltipoo for sale Houston who catches your eye, we can connect you with their breeder. Are Maltipoos good for apartments? Of all things, Maltipoos love to be with their owners best. Are Maltipoos good family dogs? Their loving and kind natures make them perfect for families. For that reason, Houston Maltipoos for sale are best suited to families with children over 6 years. Questions about Maltese puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Maltese puppies for sale in Houston TX. A long time ago, Maltese dogs came in different coat colors but today, these adorable dogs only come in white. It Are Malteses good apartment dogs? Maltese dogs are wonderful apartment dogs for a number of reasons -- they are small, have low-average energy levels, are easygoing, and they have a low-shedding coat. What more could you ask for, right? Do you sell the cheapest puppies? Our mission is to help people who are looking for a Houston Maltese for sale find their dream dog fast. The breeders and businesses on our network offer exceptional service by way of high breeding standards, out-of-state puppy transport, and best of all, helping you find the newest member of your pack. How do you screen Maltese breeders in Houston? Every week, we receive hundreds of applications from breeders and businesses who wish to join our network. Following the standards on our Breeder Pledge, our team evaluates each one in terms of practices, compliance, and facilities to determine if they share the same values as us. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other websites? Other websites that offer Malteses for sale in Houston appear on top of your search because they have an excellent ad team -- not because they have the greatest breeders. Uptown is different because we feature only Maltese breeders Houston that passed our strict screening process -- meaning they are your best bet for finding healthy Maltese puppies Houston. How does Uptown work? Finding a Maltese puppies in Houston is easy on Uptown Puppies! Next, contact the breeder of the puppy that you like and arrange its pickup date or travel details. What can I expect from my new Maltese? Though often portrayed as snobbish and aristocratic, the Maltese is anything but. These tiny dogs are affectionate and devoted so expect to lavish it with attention! If you are going to be away from your dog for long periods of time, train it in puppyhood to expect this to prevent separation anxiety later on. What are the origins of the Maltese? The Maltese is a toy dog breed that goes a long way back. Nobody knows for sure about its true origins but historical records show that they were popular companion dogs during the Roman Empire. It is also believed that the breed has crossed the oceans a few times and was developed in different parts of the world. A hybrid or designer dog is a combination of two purebred dogs. An example of this are Maltese mixes like the Maltipoo and Maltese-Shihtzu. Hybrid dogs are healthy and completely adorable not only in appearance but also in behavior. Looking for a mixed Maltese for sale Houston? Browse our available Houston Malteses for sale to explore your options. Is the Maltese a good family dog? Maltese dogs are affectionate and playful, providing their family countless hours of entertainment and joy. If you have kids, Maltese dogs can be great playmates however, you must teach your kids how to handle a small dog. The Maltipoo can thank his parents, a Maltese and a Poodle, for many of his great qualities. Maltese are said to be the oldest dog breeds known to man and have roots dating back to B. These dogs are known for their loyalty and companionship and their warm demeanors. The Toy Poodle originated in Germany and was originally bred to be a water dog aiding hunters in retrieving small game. Poodles are also known for their companionship, intelligence, and friendly demeanor. The Maltipoo has a very approachable demeanor and a friendly disposition. This breed is ranked as one of the smarter existing dog breeds and is a joy to be around. They do well with children and other pets in the household and tend to bond quickly with their families. This breed is one of the better all-around family dogs and is sure to win your heart and lap in no time at all. Brushing your Maltipoo regularly will keep hair mats and tangles at bay. Using a pin or slicker brush to go through his coat daily and remove any tangles or knotted hair is a great way to prevent matting. For some Maltipoos spritzing their hair with a detangling spray before brushing helps prevent static buildup and loosens their hair. Monthly nail clipping and bathing are also recommended to help your pup feel and look his best. This hybrid pooch offers a playful personality wrapped in a coat that can range from scruffy to curly and comes in a wide variety of colors. The Maltipoo can be found in more than ten different colors. The most frequently seen colors are white, black, apricot, and red. They have curly to scruffy coats that do well with a daily brushing and a weekly bath. Utilizing a slicker brush is a good way to keep his hair from matting. As your Maltipoo grows, he will need more and more nutrition. Feeding this dog a well-balanced diet using only quality dog food is key. Many Maltipoo owners also tend to feed their puppy on a twelve-hour schedule. Nail clipping, routine baths, and daily coat brushing are also highly recommended. This breed is not high maintenance, and with basic care, you will help give him a long and happy life. The Maltipoo stands eight and fifteen inches tall at full maturity. They weigh between five and twenty pounds. The average life expectancy of the Maltipoo is between ten and fifteen years. They are a great combination of inteligence and loyal. Fact: Maltipoos have a very easygoing temperaments and tend to get along with everyone. Fact: This breed is dog and cat friendly. Frequently Asked Questions No, they do not, at least for a full year they shed just a little. Are Maltipoos great fits for families with kids? Yes, they are. In fact, kids finds it hard to resist their furry and cute faces. Most times, they are mistaken for a teddy bear. But kids below five years should be under the supervision of an adult when playing with Maltipoos to avoid them getting hurt. How often should Maltipoos be fed? They should be fed four times a day when still in the growth phase. But when they move to adulthood, their eating timetable should be changed. Do Maltipoos have generally health challenges? In some cases they do, when they are not properly taken care of by their host families. Small dog breeds are believed to have big health issues. How long can Maltipoos live? The life expectancy of maltipoos are between the age of years. Can Maltipoos be left alone for long? Not all the time, maltipoos tends to get anxious and stressed when left alone for a long time especially when left outdoors for long periods. They start barking loudly unnecessarily. How big can Maltipoos get in size? Maltipoos are small dog breeds which means that they are naturally small dogs. Except when they are crossbred with miniature poodles then they come in larger sizes. Is it difficult to train a Maltipoo? No, it is not, maltipoos are very easy to train. They are very friendly and affectionate breeds and does well around cats and dogs alike. They can do well within enclosed and spacious places. But it is important to give special care to their hygiene. How often should a Maltipoo be bathed? You can bathe your maltipoo once every 3weeks and brush as often as possible. Why are Maltipoos the best dogs? They are because they are very easy to train, they are really adorable and also friendly. They can adapt to an environment quickly as long as it is not too hot or too cold. They are dog companions for both cats and dogs and their human owners. Are you interested in purchasing a Maltipoo? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

They are outgoing, active and affectionate companions who have a lot of energy and love making their owner happy. They have strong retrieving instincts as they were bred to be gun dogs, so they love both soft toys and diving into bodies of water. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Labrador puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a mush of minced protein such as beef, but always consult your vet first before changing your puppy's diet at this stage. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Lab for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Labrador puppy will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. You will soon notice their attentiveness to you and their intense love of play — many Labs keep this caring and fun attitude for their whole lives if you foster it. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Labrador's large size and young age. Labs are notoriously greedy and will quickly gobble down food and snatch treats from hands. You should familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into forbidden snacks found only in bins. Labradors puppies instinctively like to 'dig' inside their water bowls so much of their water will end up on the ground. Make sure to get your puppy used to touching inside their small ears as they are prone to ear infections and will need regular checkups. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Labrador puppy will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and positive reinforcement for good behaviour at this time to establish boundaries early. Labradors are eager to love anyone but can be overbearing, so you should introduce them to a number of different people and environments so that they are not overwhelmed with excitement later in life. PUPPY By the time your Labrador Retriever reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have established a loving, social friend who wants to maximise time with you and others. Your Labrador puppy will do well socially and behaviourally from puppy training classes as long as treats are involved. Nutrition Your Labrador puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Bloat is potentially fatal but can be combatted by feeding your dog two smaller meals per day, a habit you should start while they are a puppy. A rough guide is that they should exercise for minutes per day and less after 5 years when many lose their appetite for long marathons of activity. Your pup will need brushing every few days, with more frequent grooming during seasonal changes to combat shedding. Bathing should be infrequent as this can damage the waterproofing of their coats, however, you should wash them after swimming or rolling in muck. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour Do not be complacent with training your Labrador puppy — almost all are very gentle and well behaved, but this does not mean that training is unnecessary. Labs are very loving and patient with all that they meet, but they often do not know their own size. To combat this, they should be trained in how to act around small dogs and children to avoid intimidation or accidental injury. They will also benefit from obedience training to drop things from their mouths, avoid rushing across busy streets and make sure they come when called. Recommended Articles. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.