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Articles Great Danes are a personal favorite dog breed. Their almost comically large build means that they are rarely used to bear mixed doggies. However, when it does happen, the results are priceless. One of the most popular Great Dane mixes is the Great Danoodle, which is a mix with a purebred Poodle. Due to the size differences, Standard Poodles are often chosen for pairing with a healthier and more predictably-sized mixed doggy. Despite the Great Dane Poodle being such an interesting and loveable mix, this breed is not very common and thus not often profiled. So if you need information on this novel designer pooch, you have come to the right place. Due to the size differences, a female Great Dane will be chosen to carry the puppies to avoid chances of complications during pregnancy or delivery. So how big can a Great Danoodle get? Below is more on the size ranges for these mixed doggies as well as other physical traits you can expect from them. This mixed-breed dog averages 28 to 30 inches in height and 90 to lbs in weight. This makes them some of the largest designer dogs on the market. If the Dane Poo Mix is made using smaller Poodle varieties like the Toy Poodle or Miniature Poodle , the resulting mix will be much shorter and lighter than the mix made with Standard Poos. If they take after the Poodle parent, the Great Danoodle usually has a dense and curly coat. They may also have special markings, in which case merle, harlequin, and brindle patterns are the most common. A Great Dane Poodle can live for 8 to 13 years. This is pretty typical for large dogs and similar ranges can be expected for the purebred Great Dane and Standard Poodles. The mixed breeding to develop Dane Poos eliminates a lot of the diseases that affect each individual purebred dog used in the mix. However, there are some common health issues that you might still find in your Great Danoodle. These include: Epilepsy Epilepsy is a condition that causes seizures in the Great Danoodle. The inherited disorder has no cure, and all you can do is protect your dog from triggers and manage the seizures with medication. Bloat Large and deep-chested dog breeds like the Standard Poodle and the Great Dane are likely to develop a condition known as gastric dilatation volvulus. The stomach twists on itself when dilated by food and fills up with air which is why the condition is sometimes referred to as bloat. Allergic reactions to things like parasites, pollen, dust, and even food will often manifest with this skin irritation. Without early and adequate treatment, the irritation could easily result in skin breaks from scratching and eventually cause skin infections. Cancer Cancer is one of the leading causes of death in Great Danoodles. They range from blood cell cancers to solid tumors in the gut, reproductive system, and pretty much any other system in their bodies. For the most part, cancers in Dane Poos occur when they are very old. However, constant surveillance through routine vet visits is an important strategy to catch cancer early and give your Great Danoodle a fighting chance. At first glance, the Great Dane Poodle Mix may seem a bit intimidating in terms of their care needs. I mean what are you to do with a giant pound dog that is just as tall as you are when they stand up? However, whether you are a first-time dog owner or have some experience, the Great Danoodle is a relatively easy dog to take care of. You just have to understand what they need and come up with a care plan and schedule that works for the mixed doggies. Here are some of their needs. A Healthy Diet A healthy diet for a Great Dane Poodle Mix means dog food made from high-quality ingredients, nutritionally balanced meals, and appropriate portions. As far as portions go, the Dane Poo can have about 4 to 6 cups of food per day, depending on their size and age. Regular Exercise Great Dane Poodle mixed dogs are very active and energetic and require plenty of exercise to keep them healthy and sane. We recommend two exercise sessions every day for about 1 to 2 hours each. Good Grooming Practices Basic grooming for your Great Danoodle will include clipping its nails every two weeks, wiping its ears every week, and cleaning its face occasionally with moist towels or doggy wet wipes. Dental hygiene is also an important part of grooming for the care of your Great Danoodle. You can make your life easier while still getting the job done by using dental water additives. Are Great Danoodles Playful? Standard Poodles, on the other hand, are praised for their high intelligence levels, but they can be a bit aloof and reserved. So what personality does the Great Danoodle take after? The answer is a little bit of both. For a better understanding of your Great Danoodle, here are some of the common personality traits you can expect from your mixed doggy. Loyal Great Dane Poodle mixes get their loyalty from both sides of the family and make for some of the most responsible and trustworthy dogs. They form very deep and lasting bonds with their human companions and will truly be a part of the family. Smart Great Danes and Poodles are both very smart dogs, thereby making the Dane Poo Mix very intelligent and easy to train. It also helps that they are obedient and always eager to please, especially with the right incentives like treats. Energetic A Great Danoodle may be large, but they have the energy levels and spunk of smaller dogs, like fun toy breeds. Due to their high energy levels, regular exercise and engagement are crucial to both their physical and psychological well-being. These super-friendly dogs require very little socialization and instinctively love being around people, even strangers. Adaptable Whether you want an outdoor adventure buddy, a companion for your solo setting, or even a family pet, Great Danoodles will very easily adapt and thrive. Their intelligence and generally laid-back, go-with-the-flow nature makes this adaptability possible. Whichever coat type your Great Danoodle has, here are 2 of the most important coat care tips and tricks to keep your mixed doggy looking beautiful. This helps reduce the chances of fur getting knotted and matted while also getting rid of any loose fur within the coat. It has strong, metallic bristles that are closely spaced to collect loose fur while detangling knots in the coat. 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. For Dane Poo Mixes with skin issues like infections or dermatitis from allergies, you may want to extend the interval to every 6 to 8 weeks. This is because washing Great Danoodles with problematic skin too often could actually cause more damage by stripping protective oils. In addition to switching your intervals, you should also invest in high-quality grooming products that are specifically formulated for Great Dane Poodle mixes with sensitive skin. How expensive this mixed dog will depend on the availability of the two popular and sometimes pricey purebred parents. The price will inevitably be high for Great Danoodles bred from prized Poodle lineages. Great Danoodles can technically swim which is a strength that they inherit from both the Great Dane and Poodle parents. However, if they are anything like the Great Dane side of the family, swimming will not be their favorite activity. Poodles and Great Danes typically get along very well, if you are considering getting both dogs as pets. This is largely due to the friendly and accepting nature of the Great Dane that pairs perfectly with the calm and tolerant nature of Poodles. However, Poodles may need some socialization training to truly learn to bond with other pets including Great Danes. Otherwise, the aloof Poodle will just tolerate their presence without necessarily engaging. They have an increased fondness for people but do not show it openly by jumping at or licking them when they arrive. In fact, these friendly dogs can even take time in accepting new people. Besides being affectionate and caring, they are also smart and intelligent. These dogs are good with kids and the pets in its family. Daneoodles are always eager to please and would cherish the moments with its family members only in return for a little praise and some attention. The Great Danoodles are responsible pets, and stay loyal throughout their lives. They would guard the house, and bark if they spot any unfamiliar face around. This trait makes them excellent watchdogs. Though their barks are loud, they are not incessant barkers. Take it out for a couple of daily jogs or walks of course on a leash this time , mainly, if you find your dog has started gaining some weight. Grooming This breed is a low shedder, and only some basic grooming is enough for them. Brush them two to three times every week, and bathe them once in a while if you think it needs some cleaning. But use a dog shampoo only. However, using various treats accompanied by praises would make your task simpler. Train it to collect garbage and put it in the right place. Later, throw the items randomly, and command your dog to fetch one of them. If your dog fails to understand, pick it up yourself and call your dog there. Offer the trash to it until it grasps it in its mouth. In the same way, go to the garbage bin, and call your dog there, and make it un-grasp it in the bin. Give it a treat immediately, and praise considerably. Repeat the process for a few times, and continue it regularly. Your dog will soon learn to collect trash and keep your house clean. Because your dog loves you a lot and enjoys your company, it is quite likely that separation anxiety might quickly inhibit it. So, before you leave for work, or after return home, do not make a big deal. Stay calm and indifferent, as if, living without you every day for a few hours is a part of its routine. Do not talk, do not touch, nor make any eye contact from minutes before you leave, and after you come back. Lifespan Sociability In general, Great Danoodles are one of the more expensive crossbreed puppies. The Great Danoodle is a fairly rare crossbreed and the demand for them is high. These dogs are intelligent and obedient. They would make a wonderful family dog and do equally well as a guard dog. They were first bred in the s. There is evidence that the Great Danoodle was first bred somewhere in the early s. This makes it one of the most stable crossbreeds available, particularly if you get one from a reputable and experienced breeder. They have ancient origins. The Standard Poodle breed was first recognized more than years ago, while the Great Dane has origins that stretch as far back as 3, B. While a Poodle has a reputation as a spoilt and pampered lap dog, they were commonly bred in the past as hard-working sport dogs. Great Danes were often bred for the same purpose, so the combination of these breeds makes for a highly intelligent, hard-working animal, with a long and revered history. They have infinite coat variations. The wavy coat of the Great Danoodle can come in many different lengths, and the colors are almost infinite, coming in solid or multicolored variations of black, white, blue, red, grey, etc. The combination of the curly, dense fur of Poodles with the wiry, sleek coat of Great Danes makes for a wide variety of coat differences. They are amazingly loyal and easily trainable and love to be around people. They have a deep, unconditional love and trust for their human owners, and while both males and females are highly sociable, the females tend to latch onto one owner. They will often suffer from separation anxiety if left alone, as they are social dogs who love regular interaction. They love to be in packs and are playful and full of energy with other dogs. Provided that they grow up with other dogs and cats around and are socialized from an early age, they are unlikely to hunt or display any aggression toward other animals. They will need a large amount of food to maintain a healthy and balanced diet, but they are prone to overeating and will need to be carefully monitored to prevent getting overweight. Depending on the type of food they are getting, a good gauge of daily requirements is at least 4 large cups of high-quality dry dog pellets per day. Like all dogs, Great Danoodles need constant access to fresh, clean water. An easy way to get adequate hydration for your dog is to add high-quality wet food into their diet. Great Danoodles also need a source of essential fatty acids , which are good for their coats, internal organs, and nervous system. They will need a large amount of protein, which will supply them with energy and assist with skin, nail, bone, and muscle structure. That said, carbohydrates like wheat and corn should be avoided. Most dogs need around calories per pound per day to maintain a healthy weight. This can be altered depending on how active the breed is. For a Great Danoodle, their large size and high energy levels mean they may need a fair bit more. Around minutes of brisk walking three times a day is optimal, but once a day is suitable on occasion. Their large size is better suited to homes with large yards for them to run around in, but even this is not an adequate replacement for regular exercise. Their highly trainable nature makes them easily take to a leash, and with the right kind of training, Great Danoodles will love to run alongside you on a leash. Indeed, their large, strong bodies and abundant energy levels make training essential, as they can easily sweep you off your feet if they get too excited. General play cannot be counted as exercise unless they are playing fetch or some other form of high-intensity play. Long walks or runs are the best forms of exercise for a Great Danoodle to burn off any excess energy. That said, they will love the mental stimulation provided by ball games. The use of treats also helps, and this breed can be taught a variety of tricks when trained with repetition and consistency. Female Great Danoodles tend to mature earlier and are thus are ready to train quicker than males. That said, they can become moody and obstinate at times, whereas males generally have a more consistent temperament for training. Both males and females love to impress their owners by responding to commands and calls. In general, it is on the shorter side and is thick and wavy. However, it can be more like a Great Dane coat, in which case, it will be short and wiry. In either case, this breed is known to not shed much, so they do not need frequent grooming. The occasional brush and regular bath are all a Great Danoodle needs for a healthy coat. That said, regular exercise and a healthy and complete diet will go a long way in mitigating many common ailments associated with both breeds. Big dogs tend to have more issues with joints and muscles in general, and regular checkups at the vet are a good idea to keep on top of any issues that may arise, especially with older dogs. Great Danes have huge frames, and it is not surprising that they experience joint and bone diseases like hip dysplasia, and this can be passed down to Great Danoodles. They also commonly suffer from cardiomyopathy, which is a disease that leads to the enlargement of the heart. Unless you intend to breed, neutering a male dog has many associated health benefits , including preventing testicular cancer, reducing aggression, and stopping them from wandering. Similarly, spaying a female helps prevent uterine infections and breast cancer, and doing so before her first heat will mitigate these complications even more. Minor Conditions. This article will provide you with a comprehensive guide on everything you need to know about this unique and interesting breed. Unfortunately, there is not much information on the background of the Great Dane Poodle Mix itself. In the past, the Great Dane was used by the Germans to hunt wild boar. The large and powerful stature of the breed proved perfect to take on such dangerous game. Today, the Great Dane is known as a loyal and protective companion dog. Poodle History The Poodle is similar to the Great Dane in that there is much confusion about its home country. Despite being lauded as the national dog of France, it actually also originated in Germany. Back in the early days of the breed, they were used by nobility as water retrievers. Their dense and corded coat provided good protection from the elements. The breed was a naturally gifted swimmer, making it perfect for the job. In modern times, Poodles are well-loved for their flashy coats and incredible intelligence. They serve as companion dogs and also excel in a variety of canine sports. Both parent dogs are within the top 15 most popular breeds, according to the American Kennel Club. Yes, this mix can potentially result in the corded coat of the poodle on a dog with the height of a Great Dane! First-generation crosses are notoriously hard to predict. The puppy may take after either parent in any aspect. This applies to their height and weight as well, so the best we can provide you with is an estimated range. For the Great Dane Poodle Mix, you can expect height to range between inches, and weight to be around pounds. These ranges are very large A closer estimation of a specific puppy may be obtained by asking for the heights and weights of the parent dogs. The puppy will likely fall somewhere within the height and weight ranges of its parents. The Great Danepoo certainly has the potential to be very large, so it is very important to be prepared for that. As for the physical characteristics of the Great Dane Poodle Mix, they may take after either parent breed. They may have the strong and muscular build of the Great Dane or the more delicate and square build of the Poodle. As for the coat, the Great Danoodle can indeed inherit the curly and corded coat of the Poodle! However, it is just as possible for them to inherit the short, smooth coat of the Great Dane. Potential coat colors include yellow-gold, black, white, blue, gray, silver, apricot, brown, merle and cream. Black markings may exist too. However, there are a few potential temperamental issues within this breed. First, both breeds are very people-oriented. This means that they are very likely to be a loving dog to members of the family but it may lead to issues with separation anxiety. Leaving this dog on its own for an extended period of time may result in negative behaviors due to anxiety. It is also possible for Great Danoodles to inherit a strong urge to chase from the Great Dane parent. While good obedience training can help with this, it is still advised to not house this dog with particularly small children or animals who may be at risk from this behavior. They are very large dogs and while they may only mean to play, they may still cause accidents. There is also the possibility for this breed to have guard and territorial instincts. While this is rarely strong enough in this breed to cause a problem, it is still something to be aware of. If your Great Danepoo is exhibiting aggression or is very high-strung, they may need focused training to lessen this behavior. It is very important that they are trained in both obedience and socialization from a young age. As this cross has the potential to be a very large and powerful dog, it is imperative that you are the one in control. We have some resources below to help train your puppy to grow up into a well-mannered adult. However, they do not stay small for long. These dogs respond well to training and display tempered obedience most of the time. They tend to love anyone they meet unconditionally, unless they perceive the person whom they are interacting with to be a threat. Being large and powerful, a Great Danoodle spends most of their time in active mode. However, this crossbreed is more likely to be caught snuggling on the couch or trying to fit into the lap of a family member than running around and exploring. Are These Dogs Good for Families? These dogs get along well with children, both during play and snuggle time. They are not aggressive, yet they can hold their own when around rambunctious kids who are roughhousing in the backyard. They are protective over younger kids and will watch over them in social settings. Whether it is another dog, a cat, or even a pet bird, Great Danoodles can get along with them in the right setting. They do not have high prey drives and would rather sniff and snuggle with a cat than chase one down. If introduced other types of animals while still young, this crossbreed can get along with them. On the other hand, like most dogs, a Great Danoodle that is not well socialized may not get along well with any other animals. There are many different things to consider when deciding whether your household can handle caring for one of these dogs. You should know what this crossbreed must eat, how much exercise they need, the type of training they are good at, how to groom them, and more. Look for a food product that includes animal protein from chicken, beef, or fish, as the first and main ingredient. The food should be free of artificial flavors and colors because these offer no nutritional value and could harm health as time goes on. Your Great Danoodle should eat between 3 and 4 cups of dry food, or the equivalent of wet food, each day. These dogs can enjoy fresh fruits and veggies as snacks and for extra nutrition. Fresh, clean water should always be available, especially when the weather is hot. In addition, free time outside at the dog park or playing fetch is a good idea. About an hour of physical activity outside the house should be the goal every day. When the weather is bad, exercise can be accomplished indoors through games such as hide-and-seek. Interactive toys and puzzles will keep this mixed breed busy both mentally and physically when other forms of exercise are unavailable and when the family is gone from the home. These dogs are smart and eager to please and can learn quickly. Obedience training should begin while this dog is still a young puppy, at about 12 weeks of age, and it should continue throughout their lifetime. Some Great Danoodles can be a bit stubborn and may require a bit of extra patience. But with practice, even the most stubborn dog can learn to come, sit, stay, and heel at least. Tricks are always a welcome challenge for most Great Danoodles and can be practiced both inside and outdoors. Not only can these dogs master obedience training, but they can also be trained to show, guard the house, and compete in agility contests. These dogs do not require trimming and they rarely develop tangles. They may need to be bathed occasionally if they spend time outdoors. They should get enough exercise outside that their nails will stay naturally trimmed. Clean their ears with a cotton ball a couple of times a month. Owners should understand these things so they know what signs and symptoms to look for that could signal a problem developing. Minor Conditions. It is estimated that Great Danes have been around for about years. However, in Babylonian temples, around years ago there were drawings of dogs that were strikingly similar in appearance to present day Great Danes. Wealthy Germans used to have Great Danes accompany them on wild boar hunts. This is the reason cropping their ears became common—to prevent wild boars from tearing them with their tusks. They became well known for their protective attributes. Over time, breeders fine-tuned the process to breed more gentle dogs, unlike their boar-hunting ancestors. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. 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. Great Danoodles, as the name would imply, are great in size. They generally weigh between 75 and pounds. The Great Dane is only bred with the Standard Poodle, so the smallest parent would likely still be around inches in height, and pounds. These coats do require some upkeep to keep them healthy and looking great. Great Danoodles should be brushed once a week at minimum. Brushing often prevents any knots or matting from occurring. Weekly brushing can also help control the shedding that a Great Danoodle will likely do. They should also be washed monthly and their teeth should be cleaned as often as possible. Additionally, to avoid any infection, cleaning their ears should be a regular activity. Avoiding any debris from building up in the ears can prevent problems. Are Great Danoodles Hypoallergenic? Do Great Danoodles Shed? A Great Danoodle dog will not necessarily be hypoallergenic. Although mixing a breed with a Poodle often greatly reduces shedding and decreases side effects for allergy sufferers, there is no confirmation that Great Danoodles are entirely hypoallergenic. When two hypoallergenic breeds are mixed, you can be sure that the mixed breed will also be hypoallergenic. However, when one parent is hypoallergenic and the other is not, there is a good chance the puppy will not be hypoallergenic. That being said, the Great Dane Poodle Mix should shed less than a pure bred Great Dane and could be slightly better for allergy sufferers as well. Pure bred Great Danes have a short, smooth single coat that sheds moderately. On average, Great Danoodles will accompany you through your life for around years. Great Danoodle Dog Breed Common Health Concerns: Mixed breeds often have fewer health concerns because there are different genetic lines in play and therefore a decreased chance of negative genetic health problems being passed down. That being said, these two larger breeds are predisposed for developing some health problems. A few other less prevalent concerns to be aware of are myotonia and corneal dystrophy. 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. This means they are smart, eager to learn, and eager to please. They have a history of being hunting and guard dogs, so some of these traits still may course through their veins. If they see small animals, their hunting instincts may kick in and cause them to chase it, but without intent to cause harm. Although large, the Great Dane Poodle mix is generally great with kids—gentle giants if you will. This breed becomes very attached to their family and if separated for long periods of time they can develop separation anxiety. This can result in destructive or depressed behaviors. Around minutes of moderate activity such as walking, hiking, romping with friends, or a friendly game of fetch should be sufficient. Often oblivious to its large size, they may make clumsy mistakes in smaller settings. Photo courtesy of lunadanoodle on Instagram. Photo courtesy of macklingram on Instagram. It is a combination of the Great Dane and the Poodle. The resulting dog is usually large and athletic, with a thick coat that can come in a variety of colors. While the exact origins of the Great Danoodle are unknown, it is thought that this hybrid first appeared in the United States in the s. Since then, they have become increasingly popular as both companion animals and working dogs. They can also be the perfect pet because they are intelligent and friendly. They are also used as service dogs, therapy dogs, and even as hunting companions. As a result, they can inherit the best of both breeds — the athletic build and gentle nature of the Great Dane, combined with the intelligence and low-shedding coat of the Poodle. This mixed breed typically stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs between pounds. They have a straight or slightly wavy or curly coat that can be either short or long and come in a wide range of colors, including black, blue, silver, cream, brown, apricot, and red. Great Danoodle — Temperament Like both of its parent breeds, the Great Danoodle is an intelligent and active dog that loves to play and has a strong bond with its family. However, the Great Danoodle inherits some of the best traits of both breeds, making it an even more versatile and loving companion. For example, the Great Dane aspect of the Great Danoodle gives it a calm and gentle demeanor, while the Poodle side provides the energy and playful nature that makes this breed so special. As a result, the Great Danoodle is an ideal pet for families with children or active adults who are looking for a fun-loving and loyal companion. Great Danoodle — Training Needs The Great Dane Poodle mix, also known as the Great Danoodle, is a large and friendly dog that makes a great companion for active families. The Dane part of the mix is likely to inherit some of the independent streak common to most large breeds, so early socialization and obedience training are essential. The Poodle component means the dog will probably be highly intelligent and quick to learn new tricks; however, they may also require more patience and consistent training than some other breeds. Overall, the Great Danoodle is a smart and affectionate dog that will thrive in a home where they are given plenty of exercise, love, and attention. When raised in a loving home with plenty of attention and exercise, the Great Danoodle can be a gentle giant. This breed is intelligent and can be eager to please, making them easy to train. For this reason, it is important to make sure that your Great Danoodle receives plenty of socialization from an early age. With the right training and socialization, the Great Danoodle can be a devoted and loving companion. This breed loves to play and will enjoy a good game of fetch or tug-of-war. They also need plenty of space to run and should be taken on long walks or runs daily. In addition, the Great Danoodle benefits from having a yard to play in. Without enough exercise, this breed can become bored and destructive. As a result, it is important to make sure that your Great Danoodle gets plenty of exercise every day. Great Danoodle — Mental Stimulation The Great Dane Poodle mix, also known as the Great Danoodle, is a large and intelligent breed of dog that needs plenty of mental stimulation. This breed loves to learn new tricks and will excel in obedience training. They are also quick to learn new commands and respond well to positive reinforcement. In addition, the Great Danoodle benefits from having a job to do. This breed is happiest when they are given a task to perform, such as fetching the newspaper or guarding the home. Without enough mental stimulation, this breed can become bored and destructive. They are also prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long, so they are not the best choice for families with busy schedules. As a result, it is important to make sure that your Great Danoodle has plenty of toys and games to keep them occupied. This breed has a thick coat of hair that requires daily brushing to prevent matting and tangles. They also shed heavily and will require weekly vacuuming to remove loose hair from the home. In addition, the Great Danoodle needs to be bathed regularly to keep its coat clean and healthy. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility problems. Bloat is a condition that can cause the stomach to twist and fill with gas, leading to pain and potentially death. While these conditions are serious, they can be controlled with proper medical care. Great Danoodle — What should they Eat? This mixed breed is a rather large dog that requires high-quality dog food. They do best on a diet of dry kibble or raw meat. They also require plenty of exercise and should be given two to three meals per day. In addition, the Great Danoodle benefits from having a diet that is high in protein and low in fat. This breed is also prone to bloat, so it is important to avoid giving them large meals or treats. Instead, give them small meals throughout the day to prevent this condition. Great Danoodle — Are they Dog Friendly? The Great Dane Poodle mix is very friendly. This breed loves to play and will get along well with other dogs. They are also social creatures and enjoy being around people. This breed is gentle and loving, but they can also be protective of their family. As a result, the Great Danoodle makes an excellent companion for any family. Great Danoodle — Are they Child Friendly? But are they good with kids? In fact, many Great Danoodles are patient and tolerant enough to be wonderful therapy dogs. That being said, every dog is an individual. With their calm and gentle dispositions, Great Danoodles are typically great with kids of all ages. This should occur until everyone is comfortable with each other. Great Danoodle — Do they Drool? The Great Dane Poodle mix, also known as the Great Danoodle, is a large breed of dog that is known for drooling. This breed has a very thick coat of hair that traps saliva and moisture, which can cause them to drool. In addition, the Great Danoodle has a large mouth and tongue, which can also contribute to their drooling. While this breed is known for drooling, it is important to keep their coat clean and dry to prevent infection. Great Danoodle — Barking Levels Any dog owner knows that barking is a normal part of canine communication. However, some breeds tend to bark more than others. This can be problematic for apartment dwellers or those who live in close proximity to their neighbors. Luckily, there are a number of mixed breeds that are known for being relatively quiet. One of them is the Great Danoodle! While Great Danes are known for being quite vocal, Standard Poodles are actually one of the quieter breeds. As a result, Great Danoodles tend to inherit the best of both worlds. They inherit the size and sweetness of the Great Dane with the quiet nature of the Standard Poodle. While the dog does enjoy spending time outdoors, it is not necessarily dependent on warm weather for exercise. The Great Danoodle does quite well in colder climates, thanks to the thick coat of fur that covers its body. The coat helps to insulate the dog against the cold and can even protect against snow and ice buildup. As such, the Great Danoodle makes an ideal companion for those who live in cooler climates or who enjoy spending time outdoors in all seasons. This is on par with other large breeds of dogs, such as the Labrador Retriever and the Golden Retriever. These include diet, exercise, and genetics. Therefore, it is important to consult with a veterinarian as a pet owner. This will ensure that your Great Danoodle is receiving the best possible care. With proper care and nutrition, this mixed breed can enjoy a long and happy life. If you are interested in registering your Great Danoodle with the AKC, you may do so as a mixed breed. While the Great Danoodle is not currently recognized as a separate breed, this may change in the future as the popularity of the breed increases. This breed is not currently recognized by the AKC, which means that there are no set standards for pricing. When searching for a Great Danoodle puppy, be sure to do your research to find a reputable breeder who can provide you with a healthy and happy pup. Final Thoughts Great Danes are some of the most gentle and loving dogs you could ever hope to meet. Poodles, on the other hand, are known for being highly intelligent, trainable, and eternally cheerful. Great Danoodles combine the best features of both breeds.
Fact checked by Sarah Scott Sarah Scott is a fact checker with more than 16 years of experience in researching, writing, and editing digital and print media. She has verified and edited articles on a variety of subjects for The Spruce Pets, including pet behavior, health, and care as well as the latest trends in products for animals in the home. With proper training, they make excellent family pets because they get along with everyone and everything. Bulldogs have a whole lot of love to give. These moderately active dogs boast a quintessentially stocky build with wrinkled skin, and their coats are super soft. Want more reasons to love bulldogs? These cute faces should tell you all you need to know. Even then, they like to think that they're lapdogs. These soft-coated dogs have big heads and strong jaws that, when combined with their unwavering loyalty, make them top-notch watchdogs. Continue to 2 of 10 below. They weigh less than 30 pounds, but they make up for their small size with unabashedly bold character. One of America's most popular small dog breeds , French Bulldogs are quiet but alert, making them almost as effective as their American and English watchdog cousins. Continue to 3 of 10 below. Today, their tough appearance has earned them mascot status at California State University, Yale, and the University of Georgia. Continue to 4 of 10 below. Regular exercise will help them maintain a healthy weight. Make regular walking, hiking, or running a habit. Exercising your bulldog will keep its muscles and heart strong, increasing its lifespan while preventing problems such as hip dysplasia and heart disease. Continue to 5 of 10 below. Some bulldogs will sleep for 12 to 14 hours in 24 hours and must be encouraged to get up and engage in a bit of daily exercise. Continue to 6 of 10 below. They're ready to do whatever everyone else is doing. French bulldogs have a long history as companion dogs because of their loving, playful, and calm nature—they won't mind spending the day poolside with you. Continue to 7 of 10 below. Your bulldog will likely allow you to dress it up in a Halloween costume and birthday crown every year. Just don't be surprised if your photos capture big, wide puppy-dog eyes asking for a little mercy. Continue to 8 of 10 below. American bulldogs are fiercely loyal and love their owners to no end. They are exceptionally affectionate but can get territorial and suspicious of strangers. They'll socialize easily with everyone once proper training is enforced. Continue to 9 of 10 below. These dynamic dogs are enthusiastic companions and eager to please, offering as much loyalty as their big cousins and the protective instinct to prove it. Continue to 10 of 10 below. Stubbornness may just be a sign of intelligence since bulldogs seem well aware that they can wait out their owners. Once you have a treat in hand, your dog will likely learn and obey your every command. Article Sources The Spruce Pets uses only high-quality sources, including peer-reviewed studies, to support the facts within our articles. Read our editorial process to learn more about how we fact-check and keep our content accurate, reliable, and trustworthy. Pedersen, N. A genetic assessment of the English bulldog. Canine Genet Epidemiol, vol. Meet the puppies! We are located in Powhatan County in Virginia and have over seven years of breeding Bulldogs. We love dogs just as much as you do! We make sure that all of our puppies are raised and treated with lots of love, and have special attention paid to them. Both English and French Bulldogs are an attractive and eye-catching breed. They love car rides, leash walks and just spending time with you. They are the most lovable and sweetest dogs available, learn quickly and are always eager to please you. Our selective breeding process ensures you get the best dogs available. We make sure our puppies are of the highest quality around. We take pride in our process. All of our puppies come with a 6-month health guarantee, club registration, microchip and have age appropriate vaccinations and deworming. We would love the opportunity to be a blessing in helping you find the perfect English or Frenchie for your family. Let us guide you to the perfect addition to your family! Check out our available puppy page. Meet the Puppies! See all of the puppies! I would highly recommend Cute Ugly Bulldogs if you are looking for a puppy. We are considering adding a second one to our family. They are honest, fair, and good people to work with. I would do business with them again! Carly Kimble Johnson We got our Frenchie in January and the vet says he is by far the healthiest she has seen in a long time. We love our Zeke boy! Thank you guys for allowing us to make him part of our little family! Rebecca Cash Rawe We just added a new addition to our family today…. The vet saw her and just could not express how healthy she was and how well kept she is. I would definitely be coming back for another addition!!!! Liz Yun Veronica was super nice and answers texts if I have questions about our pup. We love our pup. I definitely recommend. Winnie McKinstry My family got our Frenchie from Veronica and she was so nice, helpful, and responsive. We love our baby Bella!! Thanks so much! Taylor Colly We have a beautiful new baby girl from this wonderful family! Talullah is a bundle of energy and sweet kisses. We would do business with them again! Jourdan Jones Veronica and her husband are wonderful and care a great deal about their bulldogs. Melissa Reinhold McDaniel. Call Morgan at for specific pup identification if you are leaning towards placing an early deposit. Please check back, we update our website daily! Please see our Deposit Page and our Transportation Page for information on getting your puppy. We love the English bulldog temperament, physique and expression, I just personally like it to be about lbs. We find the smaller sizes are more buoyant and playful and, though still very heat sensitive, are better able to cope with life in general. Downsizing an AKC breed takes time. Our girls all come from long lines of lb. We not trying for 20 pounders…our goal is to have healthy, beautiful babies that consistently mature at lbs. If you see a puppy that tugs on your heartstrings please call, or go to our deposit page for more information. In the last few years it has become clear that most people would prefer their puppy to be transported using our White Glove transport or Nanny Flight transport. Today, we have requests for our Puppies from all over the country. Because of this, the majority those requesting a Sugarplum Bulldog Puppy have also requested transport to their area of the country; those in Florida, for example, cannot easily make the drive to RI. As such, the majority of our Puppies have shifted to a transport model; this gets them closer to their new forever home. Because of this, we have come to the decision, that for the well being of our Puppies and for the benefit of our new Sugarplum Bulldog owners, we have developed a transport model for our pups using our Puppy-Mobile with direct transport to the pups new Forever Home! Our Mid-Western breeding home is co-owned by Sugarplum Bulldogs, and our partner. I realize that not having a chance to play with the Pups is disappointing to some, but please understand that our team are dedicated to the highest level of care for our little Pups. We truly feel that this new model is in the best interested of our Puppies and their new homes. Please feel free to ask me any questions…. With their wrinkled faces, stocky bodies, and heartwarming personalities, these puppies have captured the hearts of dog enthusiasts all over the world. Come along as we delve into some fascinating facts about English Bulldog puppies that will leave you even more enchanted by these delightful fur babies. These wrinkles are not just cute; they serve a historical purpose too. These little bundles of joy are notorious for their adorable snoring, thanks to their short snouts and flat faces. Their unique anatomy can sometimes lead to snoring, but it only adds to their charm. They are known for their playful and affectionate nature. These pups often seek attention and cuddles from their human companions. This stubborn side can actually make training sessions quite entertaining. However, these puppies put their own comical spin on physical activity. Due to their sturdy build and short snouts, they might not excel in activities that require intense endurance. Watching an English Bulldog puppy attempt to play fetch or chase a tennis ball can turn into a hilarious spectacle. Their determination will keep you laughing. English Bulldog puppies are incredibly loyal and devoted companions. They form strong bonds with their families and are particularly gentle and patient with children. Their affectionate nature and protective instincts make them excellent family pets , ready to shower their loved ones with endless love and loyalty. English Bulldog puppies isolated against white background English Bulldog puppy in grass Two English Bulldogs against wooden background English Bulldog puppy isolated on white background English Bulldog puppy lying on floor English Bulldog puppy sitting on rug English Bulldog puppy on leash English Bulldog puppies will bring a unique blend of charm and quirkiness into your life. From their historical wrinkles to their snoring symphonies, these puppies are more than just pets. Check out shelters and rescues to find the perfect pup for you, and save a life in the process!
Quality Not Quantity Our aim is to breed dogs as near the breed standard as possible. As a small breeder, we at Bonsaviour aim to have approximately 3 to 4 litters per annum, selecting our Dam and Sire carefully and concentrating on quality, healthy puppies as a priority. Bonsaviour dogs are fed a natural BARF diet which is keeping them all extremely fit and well. The barf diet is based on raw meat and meaty bones along with a few vegetables and added vitamins. More about puppies About us At Bonsaviour all of our dogs are first and foremost our companions and their welfare and happiness is of paramount importance to us. We are dedicated and love our dogs they are part of our family, they all live inside our home and are cared for in the best possible way for health, happiness and temperament. Our puppies are reared naturally for true health and temperament and are used to the normal day to day living. The puppies are socialised with our grandchildren and all the normal noises such as the hoover and TV. When the puppies are 8 weeks old and are ready to move on to the new family we guarantee the puppy will be a confident healthy and happy puppy. Bonsaviour are committed, responsible breeders rearing our puppies on a natural diet as nature intended for health. We're based in a small village in the beautiful, wooded countryside of Neachley which is near the village of Albrighton in the County of Shropshire West Midlands UK. Golden Retriever Puppies are available all year round, all bred from parents not only of superb quality from long-established proven bloodlines, but also with wonderful temperaments - a factor on which we place great importance. Our puppies are bred with love for type, temperament, intelligence and health, making excellent companions, as well as being suitable for the various purposes for which these dogs are renowned. Retrievers are wonderful dogs with great temperaments and we are sure that you and your family will be happy to become Retriever Lovers. Our Buddy is a lively, loving and gentle boy. With a teenager attitude right now. We had a puppy from you last year. He was born in March and we picked him up in May. We called him Alfie. Any accolades gained are from our customer or Independant third party reviews. In the "Dog World", ferocious opinions clash all the time. Our philosophy can be digested from the following article. Some of our Retrievers Puppies Litters of puppies are planned very carefully and are born and raised in the house. Bonsaviour puppies are adapted to family life well before they leave us. We have an occasional litter each year, most often puppies are sold before they are born. Reserving a puppy from planned litters is recommended. If you are interested in a puppy, we will require some background information about yourself, your family members, your home and lifestyle, including where you live, whether you have owned a pet before, opportunities for exercise and when you hope to welcome a new addition to your home. We are very happy to help in the process of selecting a puppy that is right for you and your family. When you purchase a puppy from Bonsaviour we will always be here to offer support for you and your puppy and help with any questions you might have for the life ofyour puppy and beyond. This is one of the finest family dogs in the world: cheerful, demonstrative, trustworthy with everyone, and forgiving of any mistakes made by inexperienced owners. Give this breed two brisk walks each day, play fetch games, and take him out for a good run once a week, and he is adaptable to almost any lifestyle. Friendly with everyone strangers, children, dogs, cats, smaller pets , his bark is welcoming rather than protective. You must control his tendency to chew on objects and to mouth your hands -- provide a box filled with toys so he can carry things around in his mouth. A Golden Retriever remains enthusiastically puppy-like for many years, so early obedience training is required to instill calmness and good manners. Eager to please and wonderfully responsive, he is nonetheless distracted by exciting sights and sounds, so you must be both patient and persistent. The mind and heart of a Golden is sweet and gentle, but his body is robust — until he's taught not to pull on the leash, you'll need good biceps to walk him. Our beautiful girl was born last April and we collected her in June. We named her Sienna and she is just the most adorable and loving girl. She loves going for long walks and running round the fields surrounding our home, although she does manage to seek out every muddy puddle to roll around in. She loves nothing more than playing hide and seek with her many toys and is so clever, she always finds them. My favourite time is in the evening, when she becomes sleepy and snuggles on the sofa with us, being totally pampered. We absolutely adore her and feel so blessed she is part of our family. Thanks again Jude. Well, the short answer is that while the English Cream has a lighter coat, it is still simply a Golden Retriever. However, held to slightly different standards in most ways they are exactly the same. Most people ask me if the English Golden is blockier or bigger and the answer is no! But lets go over the European history and breed standard of the English Cream Golden and what the differences are. When different Golden Retriever Clubs across the world describe the breed using words like 'rich' and 'lustrous' in the U. While in Europe, lighter colors are specifically mentioned. So breeders hoping to achieve the best match to the standard and win show titles would err towards light-colored puppies. European Golden Retriever Size Another point of difference in the breed standards is size. There has been no known difference in temperament. The Golden is known across the world as the ultimate people dog. The Golden Retriever can trace its roots back to the 19th century. But, differences in opinion about the ideal Golden Retriever has meant that in each country, breeders have typically tried to achieve slightly different looks. Around the same time, fans of the breed started taking them to America and Canada. Different breed standards This recognition by three separate breed registries is the crux of why European Goldens are sometimes described as being distinct from American Goldens. Each breed registry has drafted and agreed its own description of the ideal Golden Retriever. This is known as a breed standard. Fill out the Puppy Application to get started and we will be in touch with you soon. Northwest Golden Retrievers Rescue — Lancashire. Our last pick on the list of the most reputable Golden Retriever breeders in the UK is not a breeder, but an independent adoption and rescue center dedicated to rehoming Golden Retriever dogs. Northwest Golden Retrievers rescue was established in , with the main goal of finding responsible, new forever homes for Golden Retrievers that are either abandoned, unwanted, or due to other circumstances, in need of a loving family. Get in touch with Northwest Golden Retrievers Rescue to find the right Goldie for your lifestyle and your family. Although they are so popular and have many good qualities, they do have one downside. As you can already tell, there are a lot of options to choose from when searching for your new Golden retriever puppy. Keep in mind that even though the breeders on this list are trustworthy and reputable, you still want to make sure to ask all the right questions when talking to the breeders, as well as be prepared to be screened by the breeder about your home environment, lifestyle, and capacity for taking care of your new family pet. Even though these breeders are vetted and have good references, make sure your new Goldie comes with all the required paperwork and written health check records. Other than these general guidelines, we have only one more thing to say. We wish you luck in finding your new Golden Retriever puppy to be your pawfully wedded companion for life. Related Articles:. What is a Red Golden Retriever? While Red Golden Retrievers can grow as big as a normal golden retriever, they are often smaller than most normal golden retrievers. Red Golden Retrievers are very similar to Golden Retrievers in many ways. The main difference besides their coat color is their energy levels. Red Retrievers were bred to aid in hunting birds and are known to be more athletic than standard Goldens. They need to be exercised more often to get all of their energy out. We stand by our pups, which is why we work alongside licensed veterinarians to ensure that our puppies are healthy and always up to date on their deworming and vaccination protocols. We also offer a 2-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. That way, you can rest easy knowing your puppy is healthy and free from genetic defects and congenital diseases. Our mission is dedicated to connecting healthy, beautiful puppies with their forever families. Because their temperament is friendly, energetic, and patient. These pups are known for being loyal, intelligent, and devoted. Due to their higher energy levels they were bred to hunt after all , they do best with active families where they can get a lot of attention and are great with children. Luckily Red Retrievers and Goldens alike are known for their soft mouths since they were bred to hunt birds. The original Goldens came to be as a result of cross-breeding between various different breeds including: Water Spaniels, Yellow Retrievers, Irish Settlers, and Bloodhounds over several generations. In other words, all Golden Retriever subtypes including the English Cream Golden Retriever subtype , are members of the same family, or breed. Oftentimes, cheaper golden retriever puppies can ultimately cost you a LOT more money in the long run because they are more likely to have health issues. Are Red Goldens more expensive? Because of their elegant red coats and rarity, Red Goldens can be more expensive than certain other subtypes of Golden Retriever. Both are very similar in temperament, friendliness, socialness, health, and looks. They differ most in coat color, size, and energy. They are typically the smallest puppies of the litter and are more athletic meaning more energy to burn! How big is a full-grown Red Golden Retriever? The weight range for these sweet pups can be from pounds for full-grown males, and pounds for full-grown females. Additionally, these babies tend to stand at about inches tall, with males being on the taller end of the spectrum. Do Red Goldens shed? Yes, all types and variations of Golden Retrievers shed, and this is entirely normal for the breed. However, it is worth noting that because the Red Goldens often have a coat that is slightly shorter than typical Goldens, some owners claim they shed less overall. Problem solved! Are Red Golden Retrievers aggressive? The good news is— no, Red Golden Retrievers are not aggressive dogs by nature even with their higher energy levels. They still have the same sweet, calm, and lovable disposition which makes them a fantastic addition to any family to give plenty of attention to everyone including yours. Are Red Goldens more calm? Usually not, when compared to other subtypes of Golden Retrievers. While Red Golden Retrievers are much alike to Golden Retrievers with their high patience levels, they are known to have more energy. Are Red Golden Retrievers Rare? The gene manifests relatively rarely compared to other colors. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Do your research — Before purchasing anything online, including pets, look up reviews for the site, or person, you are buying from. If the seller declines, challenge them on why. Choose your payment method wisely — If you decide to go ahead with the purchase, avoid paying by bank transfer as that offers you little protection if you become a victim of fraud. Instead, use a credit card or a payment service such as PayPal. Buying a Puppy The Golden Retriever is an excellent choice for a family pet, and though a sporting breed, it is one of the most adaptable. A Golden can be all things to all people, from fulfilling its original function in the shooting field, to service dog for search and rescue, guide dog, hearing dog for the deaf and working dog for the police and customs. Most are intelligent, unfailingly cheerful and gentle making them ideal companions for families with children. As family pets they can be taught to compete successfully in obedience, agility and working trials as well as in the show ring. There are, however several points to bear in mind before you purchase your new puppy. Owning a puppy is a responsibility requiring a serious commitment from all members of the family, for this will be a partnership that can last anything up to 12 — 15 years. Perhaps at this point we ought to remind you of a few of their less attractive traits. Goldens shed their coats frequently and copiously. Do not buy one if you are house-proud, have pale coloured carpets or a dodgy vacuum cleaner. Goldens are large dogs with an uncanny knack of finding all the muddiest puddles. Some are great wallowers — yours is bound to be one of them! Faeces are a by-product of all dogs, which we all have to dispose of responsibly. It is one of the more unpleasant facts of dog ownership, and most public places now require you to pick up after your dog. Veterinary fees are expensive, so it makes sense to insure your dog, indeed most breeders will insist you do so. Goldens do not make good kennel dogs, most are real couch potatoes, who unerringly find the most comfortable sofas and the choicest position in front of the fire. Some Goldens are great landscape architects, if your garden is a show piece, having your own Ground Force team may not go down too well. The garden must also be well fenced with sturdy boundaries, like Anne Robinson, puppies will always find the Weakest Link. Although usually tractable and obedient, given an inch, most will take the whole nine yards! If you still insist that a Golden is the dog for you, read on. Choosing your puppy. Always buy from a breeder where you can see the mother with her puppies. This will give you an idea of how the puppies will turn out. If the breeder does not own the stud dog, ask to see photographs of him. Make sure that both the sire and the dam of the puppies have the appropriate health clearances, and ask to see the certificates. Click on the diamond for an explanation of the health schemes. Reputable breeders will have their puppies checked out by their veterinary surgeon prior to sale and bear in mind you may be asked to sign a sales contract. Are they scrupulously clean? Is the breeder making provision for proper socialisation of the litter? Are the puppies happy and out-going, with clear eyes and skin? If yours is a family with very young children, do not go for the cute, shy puppy sitting on his own in the corner. Opt for the middle-of-the-road puppy that interacts well with his siblings, is lively and happy without being too dominant, bold or brash. A Golden puppy should be confident and interested to explore his surroundings. If colour is important to you, bear in mind the puppies will all look considerably lighter at this age than they will end up. The colour of their ears gives an approximate guide to their ultimate colour. What may appear to be a quiet puppy may be the life and soul of the litter who has just had a mad half hour and worn himself out! Make sure you have been given all the Kennel Club documentation and copies of all appropriate health clearances with the puppy, an advice sheet and a diet sheet. Stick to the diet suggested by the breeder until the puppy has settled well into his new home before you make any changes. Well bred puppies should also be Kennel Club Registered, this is proof of lineage. There is no reason not to register a litter, it cost very little. Be wary of breeders offering puppies un-registered. Puppies should also come with advice of worming, vaccination and some offer an insurance cover note to cover pups for first few weeks. Do your homework. Buy, or borrow from the library, all the books you can on Goldens. Puppies do not sit gift wrapped on a shelf — be prepared to wait for the puppy of your choice. Caring for your new puppy. Training should start as soon as you arrive home. Have one set of rules for all the family and stick to them. Puppies, like young children, need routine and firmly established ground rules. Goldens are good with children, but make sure your children are taught to be caring and responsible with dogs. A puppy is a living, breathing real-life creature, not a toy and should be treated with respect. Your children and your puppy. Provide the puppy with its own bed and do not allow the children to disturb the puppy when it is sleeping. Always make sure there are no staples that the puppy could swallow. Do not allow young children to pick up the puppy. Do not allow very young children to play with the puppy unsupervised. Do not allow children to become over excited around the puppy. This means no screaming, no jumping and no fighting. Do not allow young children to feed the puppy or disturb the puppy while it is eating. The First Night. The first night is always a little fraught. It will be the first time your puppy has been separated from his mother and siblings, so expect him to cry a little and do not be unduly alarmed when he does so. Be calm and matter of fact, do not excite the puppy and make sure it has relieved itself before putting it to bed. Most breeders will have given you a small piece of blanket with the scent of his family on it, that you can put inside his bed and which will help to settle the puppy. Provide a warm comfortable blanket such as Vet Bed, which is hard-wearing and easily cleaned. Dogs are den animals and so prefer their bed to be tucked in a corner. House Training As a rule Goldens learn quite quickly and although at times it seems as though they will never be clean, most are by around four months. Puppies are not really capable of controlling bladder function much before this time, so anticipation and vigilance on your part is of prime importance. So as soon as you arrive home with your new pup carry him straight to the spot in the garden and stay with him until he has performed, then make a fuss of him, then he can go and explore his new home. The odd accident is an inevitable part of house training your puppy, so be prepared to experience it. Remember, prevention is better than cure! View accidents as a lack of vigilance on your part. Times to watch are after a meal and a sleep. Take the puppy outside to his spot in the garden. An eight-week-old puppy can spend a penny for England, so be warned! Remember that these dogs are retrievers, so it would be going against their nature if they were never allowed to pick things up. All puppies chew: It is a natural process that enables baby teeth to be expelled. If anything precious gets spoiled it is your own fault. Your puppy is an instinctive animal. There is no point in getting cross if your puppy chews things if he is unsupervised for long periods The Devil makes work for idle paws! If you do have to be away from home for more than a couple of hours, you will need to arrange for a puppy-sitter. Though Goldens are usually extremely biddable and kind to people, children and other animals, as youngsters they can be lively and boisterous and appear to be in trouble more than they are out of it Your puppy has no concept of the social graces unless you teach it, and people usually get the dogs they deserve. We strongly recommend obedience classes for you and your puppy to learn to become responsible members of society. Your breeder will be able to advise you of local classes. The very first lesson should be for the puppy to learn his own name and to come when called. Call him and make a fuss of him when he bounds over and give him a food reward. Hopefully by the time he has gained the confidence to go off exploring, the lesson will have been learnt and the thought of a treat will bring him back. If he is told off at this point he will associate the punishment with coming to you, not the fact that it was in his own time. NEVER hit a young puppy; violence solves nothing and your dog will associate pain to being with you and it will take weeks of patience to win him round again. Teach your puppy to accept you as his new pack-leader and that what you say goes. Use short one-word commands, but try to make learning fun. If you have a dominant, greedy puppy who guards his food, hand feeding him for several meals often works. If the puppy growls and guards a prized possession, remove the article and spend time giving the item back and then gently removing it again, until the puppy accepts your supremacy. Initially, a play in your garden is quite sufficient for your new puppy. After he has received his vaccinations, start with 10 to 15 minutes exercise off the lead in a safe area allowing him to set the pace. Exercise can be increased as the puppy grows, but very gradually. Remember your puppy is growing at an alarming rate and over-exercise and too boisterous play can cause damage to joints and cartilage later on. A good way to monitor exercise is a guide of 5 minutes for each month of the puppies life, ie: at 3 month 15 minutes lead exercise twice a day, which is then increased every month by 5 minutes. Take it slowly at first, and by the time your dog is 12 to18 months old he will be able to take all the exercise you care to give him, and more. The new Nobivac and Canigen vaccines out now, enable the vaccination programs to be completed earlier, so your puppy can be socialised earlier. Until last injection has taken effect, he should not leave the confines of your garden, unless he is carried. The breeder, using a proprietary brand of wormer should have wormed your puppy at least three times. Even so, it makes sense to be certain that children wash their hands after playing with the puppy and before eating. Worm again every couple of weeks until 3 months, then once or twice a year as a precaution. Ask your Vet for a recommended brand of wormer. Groom your puppy every day. This not only helps to keep him clean, but also establishes a bond between the two of you. Get your puppy used to having his ears looked at, his feet picked up and his teeth checked on a daily basis, so that any veterinary examination, should it be necessary at a later date, will not be too much of an ordeal. Initially, grooming will just consist of a thorough brushing, though later as the adult coat and feathering comes through, a daily check for knots and tangles will become necessary. And Finally. With just a little effort and training, your puppy will mature into a wonderful companion and a fully fledged member of the family that you can take anywhere and whom you will be proud to own. Should the unthinkable happen and your circumstances change so that you are unable to keep your puppy or older dog, please remember to inform the breeder in the first instance. If you live outside the UK, we would suggest you go to our links page and contact your nearest Golden Retriever Club. Club members: 1 Will properly house, feed, water and exercise all dogs under their care and arrange for appropriate veterinary attention if and when required. Puppies which may not conform to the Breed Standard should be placed in suitable homes. Will not sell by sale or auction Kennel Club registration certificates as stand alone items not accompanying a dog. However, you may visit "Cookie Settings" to provide a controlled consent.
Less - The German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs , well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the German Shepherd Dog is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. The head is in proportion to the size of the body, strong without appearing coarse or fine. Gender differences are readily apparent. The German Shepherd Dog is confident and fearless, willing to be approached, yet a certain level of aloofness towards strangers is acceptable. When working, the German Shepherd is alert and eager, adapting well to new tasks. Lack of confidence is a serious defect in the character of a German Shepherd. The structure of this breed was designed for efficient locomotion, particularly at the trot, so poor movement is another serious fault. History Less - The German Shepherd Dog is a relatively young breed, developed almost single-handedly in the first half of the twentieth century by a German cavalry officer, Max von Stephanitz, president of the Verein far Deutsche Schaferhunde S. Using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock, von Stephanitz developed a distinctive breed in a very short period of time, due in large part to the authoritarian practices of the German dog fancy at that time. Von Stephanitz emphasized utility and intelligence in his breeding program, enabling the German Shepherd Dog to switch easily from herding duties to other fields of work, particularly military and police work. All things German were shunned and popularity slumped. After the war, however, movie star Rin-tin-tin stimulated interest in the breed again. The striking good looks of this breed, combined with its remarkable intelligence and loyalty, have made it a favorite working and companion dog. Pedigree: German with a strong and reputable pedigree His Shepherd can be more expensive as breeders tend to charge more for dogs with proven pedigrees of strong and healthy dogs. Coat Types: German Shepherds with certain coat types, such as long coats or black and tan, can be more expensive. Location: The cost of a German Shepherd depends on where you live. German Shepherds may be more expensive in some areas due to high demand, while they may be cheaper in others. Ages: Puppies tend to be more expensive than adult German Shepherds because they are in high demand. Training and Socialization: German Shepherds that have been highly trained and socialized are more valuable to potential owners and therefore can be more expensive than those that are not. Health and Wellness: German Shepherds that are tested and certified as healthy can be more expensive than those that are not. Monthly Cost of German Shepherd Dogs Monthly costs associated with owning a German Shepherd dog: Food: The largest portion of your monthly budget will likely go towards food. German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs and require a nutritious diet. This may include vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and routine exams. Grooming: German Shepherds have a double coat that requires regular brushing and occasional grooming. Toys and Accessories: Dogs need mental stimulation and toys for exercise. Training: German Shepherds benefit from training and socialization. Pet Insurance: Consider pet insurance for unexpected medical emergencies. Intelligence: German Shepherds are exceptionally intelligent and easily trainable. High Energy: They are a high-energy breed and require regular exercise and mental stimulation. Loyalty: They are known for their loyalty and devotion to their owners. Shedding: German Shepherds have a double coat and shed year-round, requiring regular grooming and cleaning. Versatility: They excel in various roles, including as working dogs, search and rescue, and family pets. Health Concerns: They are prone to certain genetic health issues, including hip dysplasia and elbow dysplasia. Protective Instincts: German Shepherds are natural protectors and make excellent guard dogs. Socialization Needs: Proper socialization is crucial to prevent fear or aggression towards strangers and other dogs. Agility: They are agile and excel in dog sports like agility and obedience. Time Commitment: They require significant time and attention, and leaving them alone for extended periods can lead to behavioral issues. Working Drive: Their strong work ethic and drive make them suitable for various tasks and activities. Training Challenges: They may test boundaries and require consistent, patient training to ensure good behavior. Family Companionship: They can be loving and affectionate family pets when properly trained and socialized. Space Requirements: German Shepherds do best in homes with ample space to move and play. Apartment living may not be ideal. Alertness: Their alert nature makes them excellent watchdogs, alerting you to potential threats. Allergies: They can be prone to allergies, which may require dietary adjustments and medication. Search and Rescue: They are often used in search and rescue operations due to their tracking abilities. Bloat Risk: They have a higher risk of bloat, a life-threatening condition that requires immediate attention. Intelligence: Their intelligence makes them problem-solvers and quick learners. Separation Anxiety: They can develop separation anxiety if left alone frequently or for long periods. German Shepherd Fun Facts There are some fun facts about German Shepherds that are given below: German Shepherd was originally bred for sheep herding in Germany in the late 19th century. They are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world and are known for their intelligence, loyalty and trainability. German Shepherds are trained for a wide range of duties including search and rescue, law enforcement and military operations. German Shepherds are very active and require daily exercise to maintain physical and mental health. It has a distinctive appearance, with a sturdy build, wedge-shaped head, and upright triangular ears. German Shepherds have a keen sense of smell and are often used for sniffing tasks such as detecting drugs and bombs. Protects the family and is often used as a guard dog. The German Shepherd is known for being easy to train and is popular in various canine sports such as obedience, agility and Schutzhund. Despite their physique and muscular physique, German Shepherds are surprisingly graceful and athletic and are often used in Hollywood for their natural acting ability. Care Tips for German Shepherd Taking care of a German Shepherd involves a combination of proper nutrition, exercise, grooming, training, and regular veterinary care to ensure their health and happiness. Here are some care tips for German Shepherds: 1. High-Quality Diet: Provide your German Shepherd with a balanced and high-quality dog food appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. Regular Exercise: German Shepherds are active and energetic dogs. They require daily exercise to stay physically and mentally stimulated. Long walks, playtime, and even agility training can help meet their exercise needs. Socialization: Early socialization is crucial to ensure your German Shepherd is well-behaved and comfortable around other dogs and people. Expose them to various environments, people, and situations from a young age. Obedience Training: German Shepherds are intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation. Enroll them in obedience training classes to establish good behavior and reinforce their bond with you. Grooming: German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds year-round. Regular brushing helps manage shedding and keeps their coat healthy. Bathing should be done as needed. Pay attention to their nails, ears, and teeth as well. Ensure they are up-to-date on vaccinations, flea and tick prevention, and heartworm medication. Discuss any breed-specific health concerns with your vet. Dental chews and toys can also help maintain oral health. Mental Stimulation: German Shepherds thrive when mentally challenged. Puzzle toys, interactive games, and training sessions can keep their minds sharp. Secure Environment: Provide a safe and secure environment, especially if you have a puppy. German Shepherds are known for their curiosity, so puppy-proofing your home is essential. Love and Attention: German Shepherds are loyal and affectionate dogs that thrive on human companionship. Spend quality time with your dog, offer affection, and provide a loving and nurturing home. Proper Rest: Ensure your German Shepherd gets enough rest. They need quality sleep to maintain their physical and mental health. Watch for Signs of Stress or Illness: Be attentive to any changes in behavior, appetite, or energy levels. Early detection of health issues is crucial for prompt treatment. Health Issues of German Shepherd German Shepherds are generally healthy dogs, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Being aware of these common health concerns can help you provide the best care for your German Shepherd. Here are some of the health issues that are commonly associated with German Shepherds: 1. This can lead to arthritis and lameness. Responsible breeding practices can help reduce the risk. Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a genetic condition affecting the elbow joint. It can cause lameness, pain, and arthritis in affected dogs. Bloat Gastric Torsion : German Shepherds are one of the breeds more prone to bloat, a life-threatening condition where the stomach twists on itself. Symptoms include a distended abdomen, restlessness, and attempts to vomit without producing anything. Degenerative Myelopathy: This is a neurological disease that can affect German Shepherds as they age. It leads to a gradual loss of coordination and mobility in the hind limbs. German Shepherds are among the breeds predisposed to this condition. Allergies: German Shepherds can be prone to allergies, including food allergies and environmental allergies. Allergies can lead to skin issues, itching, and discomfort. Pancreatitis: Pancreatitis is an inflammation of the pancreas and can cause severe abdominal pain, vomiting, and diarrhea. It may be triggered by a high-fat diet. Cancers: Like many larger breeds, German Shepherds are at a higher risk for certain types of cancer, including hemangiosarcoma and osteosarcoma. Eye Issues: They can be prone to eye conditions like progressive retinal atrophy PRA and cataracts, which can lead to vision problems or blindness. Training of German Shepherd Training a German Shepherd is essential to ensure they become well-behaved, obedient, and happy companions. German Shepherds are highly intelligent and thrive on mental stimulation, making them eager learners. Early socialization and obedience training are crucial for their development. Positive Reinforcement: German Shepherds respond well to positive reinforcement techniques. Use treats, praise, and affection as rewards when they obey commands correctly. Avoid harsh punishments, as this can lead to fear or aggression. Socialization: Expose your German Shepherd to various environments, people, and animals. Socialization helps prevent fear or aggression towards strangers and other dogs. Crate Training: Crate training is useful for housetraining and providing a safe space for your dog. Make the crate a positive place with treats and toys. Leash Training: Teach your German Shepherd to walk on a leash without pulling. Consistent leash training ensures they walk calmly during walks. Stay Calm and Assertive: German Shepherds respond well to confident and calm leadership. Be consistent in your commands and actions, establishing yourself as the pack leader. Exercise and Mental Stimulation: Provide ample exercise and mental stimulation. German Shepherds need both physical and mental challenges to stay happy. Engage in activities like agility, obedience, or puzzle toys. Advanced Training: German Shepherds excel in advanced training tasks, such as agility, search and rescue, and protection work. Avoid Overexertion: While exercise is crucial, be mindful not to overexert your German Shepherd, especially during puppyhood when their joints are developing. Consistency: Consistency is key in training. Use the same commands and rewards consistently to avoid confusion. Patience: Training takes time and patience. German Shepherds may test boundaries, but remaining patient and positive will yield better results. With proper care, nutrition, and veterinary attention, some German Shepherds can live as long as 12 years or more. Factors that can affect the lifespan of a German Shepherd include genetics, diet and exercise, overall health, and access to regular veterinary care. Is it legal to own a German Shepherd in India? Yes, Is it legal to own a German Shepherd in India. Are German Shepherds very loyal to Humans? Yes, German Shepherds are known for their loyalty to humans. They are highly devoted to their families and are protective of their loved ones, making them great companions and protectors. What is the best Temperature for German Shepherds? German Shepherds are a hardy breed and can tolerate a range of temperatures, but they are most comfortable in temperatures between 60 and 80 degrees Fahrenheit. What is the average lifespan of a German Shepherd? The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is typically around 10 to 13 years. Proper care, nutrition, and regular veterinary check-ups can contribute to a longer and healthier life for your furry companion. How much exercise do German Shepherds need daily? German Shepherds are an active breed and require at least 1 to 2 hours of exercise every day. This can include walks, playtime, and mentally stimulating activities to keep them happy and healthy. Are German Shepherds good with children? Yes, German Shepherds are often wonderful family dogs. They are loyal and protective, making them great companions for children when properly trained and socialized from an early age. Do German Shepherds shed a lot? Yes, German Shepherds have a double coat and shed throughout the year. Regular brushing can help manage their shedding, and they tend to shed more during seasonal changes. Are German Shepherds aggressive? German Shepherds are not inherently aggressive, but they are protective by nature. Proper socialization and training are crucial to ensure they are well-behaved and not aggressive towards strangers. What are common health issues in German Shepherds? German Shepherds can be prone to health issues like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, bloat, and certain genetic conditions. Responsible breeding and regular veterinary check-ups are essential to monitor their health. Are German Shepherds good for first-time dog owners? While they are highly trainable, German Shepherds can be a good fit for first-time dog owners if they are committed to training and socialization. However, they require time, attention, and proper care. Can German Shepherds live in apartments? German Shepherds thrive in homes with ample space to move and play. Apartment living can be challenging unless you can provide them with sufficient exercise and mental stimulation. Do German Shepherds get along with other pets? German Shepherds can get along with other pets, but it depends on their socialization and individual temperament. Early socialization and proper introductions are key to successful multi-pet households. What are some unique characteristics of German Shepherds? German Shepherds are known for their intelligence, loyalty, and versatility. They are often used in roles like police work, search and rescue, and as guide dogs for the visually impaired due to their exceptional abilities. Related Posts:. Life Span Did You Know? The German Shepherd is one of the most versatile, well-recognized, and popular dog breeds in the world. The modern German Shepherd is descended from a family of various German herding dogs. Breed standards were not developed until the late 19th century when Captain Max von Stephanitz, a German cavalry officer, worked with Arthur Meyer and other breeders to develop the ideal German herding dog. Stephanitz and Meyer wrote the breed standard in and the American Kennel Club recognized the German Shepherd as a member of the Herding Group in .Although they were originally bred as herding dogs, they were also bred for versatility, which made the German Shepherd an all-around working dog that could excel in a variety of applications. German Shepherds are one of the common dog breeds employed in K-9 units in both police and military applications. They also make great service dogs and, of course, are still awesome herding dogs and farm dogs! The German Shepherd is a strong-willed and highly intelligent dog. They have a playful, energetic spirit and tend to get along with children, other dogs, and other pets, which makes them a great family companion. A born protector, the German Shepherd will provide a great sense of security for their family while their loving and lively personality will make them fit right in as a companion. German Shepherds are naturally protective and can be wary of strangers at first. A well-socialized German Shepherd will bark to alert you and tends to warm up to strangers once introduced. German Shepherds are dogs that were bred to herd and work. This, plus their high energy, makes them a better fit for homes with fenced yards where they can run. They can adapt well to larger apartments as long as plenty of time is dedicated to ensuring they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention every day. A bored, ignored, or under-exercised German Shepherd can often become a destructive one. They also can be sensitive to their surroundings and large gatherings can be off-putting. With a longer coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates and are sensitive to heat. The German Shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but there are some potential health concerns and good breeding practices make a big difference. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a German Shepherd include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , and degenerative myelopathy. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a barrel-chested breed, the German Shepherd is also at risk for bloat. While the German Shepherd is highly intelligent and highly trainable, they are generally not recommended for novice owners. If you are a novice dog owner, enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a professional dog trainer; not just for your dog, but for yourself as well. Training assistance will help you grow in experience and build a strong bond between you and your German Shepherd puppy, which is essential. Also, the GSD has a thirst for training and fulfillment. They get bored easily and especially with repetition, so continued training with your German Shepherd throughout their life will be necessary. German Shepherds have a medium-to-long double coat. They will shed year-round and heavier as seasons change. Brushing a few times a week is usually sufficient; brushing daily is even better and your GSD will likely love you for it. Bathing is occasional on an as-needed basis. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. German Shepherds are high-energy working dogs. Not only do they require a lot of daily activity, but they also are a herding breed that was made to run, guard, and observe, so they need a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough for a GSD, but they will likely be up for more activity if you are. With their versatility and athleticism, you can try a lot of different activities when puppies finish growing and they are cleared for higher-impact things. A fully-grown German Shepherd usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. German Shepherds generally live for years on average. Corporal Duncan brought him back to the United States and Rin-Tin-Tin became one of the most famous dog actors in history. Featured German Shepherd Article. Important Facts about German Shepherd: German shepherd is well suited companion for family, Guarding or working dog. German Shepherd are extremely protective because of which get bad reputation of being overly-aggressive. German Shepherd love physical and mental exercise. Because of their high energy German Shepherd are always ready for action. They are very energetic, active and athletic. Additionally they have above average intelligence and trainability, when positive reinforcement training methods used. German shepherd dog are very trustful, affectionate, playful and friendly to every age group of the family. German shepherd puppies should be fed times per day and slowly reduce the feeding time to 2 increasing the quantity. That means they primarily eat meat. Even then most of the dog food brands bag ingredients are grains and other stuff to cut down the cost of manufacturing. For the best growth and controlled weight it is very important to feed meat primarily in their diet. Make sure you check the ingredients before making a choice on which dog food to purchase. Never feed German Shepherd food that contains produced meals, soy, wheat or corn. It is important to weigh your dog. A healthy and normal full grown male German Shepherd dog weighs anywhere between 30 to 45 kilograms. You can take your dog to a vet to weigh him. An adult German Shepherd requires a proper balance of water, vitamins, minerals, fats, and carbohydrates. German Shepherd puppy will need some very specific nutrients and he will need them in some very specific amounts. This will give him the best chance of growing up with a strong, healthy immune system. Plus strong and healthy bones, brain, and body systems! Feeding a German Shepherd puppy should always aim to meet these guidelines: Calcium — It will help German Shepherd to develop strong joints and bones, eyes and teeth, brain and immune system. Aim for a calcium content of no more than 1. Phosphorus — Making their joints and skeletal system form and grop properly. Phosphorus binds with calcium to do its job. Adopt German shepherd dogs and puppies from petsworld. German shepherds are so adaptable and intelligent that they have performed just about every job known to dogs. From his striking size to his straight ears and dark eyes, this breed of dogs has achieved a legendary status as an ideal canine. Owing to their remarkable intelligence, these dogs can perform plethora of works, such as leading the blind, detecting illicit drugs, bringing down fleeing criminals and serving in the armed forces. These loyal, energetic, and devoted canines have become quite popular among pet lovers all over the world. Further, they have excelled in almost every canine sport, including obedience, agility, tracking, rally, and of course herding. All these notable features of these dogs have increased their demand. You should always buy German shepherd from the certified pet breeders and not from pet shops or puppy mills. Always see the health certificate of their parents to minimize chances of any genetic disorder. German shepherd dog breed information General Information:. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.
Available Thank you for visiting LaMarca's Kennels! I grew up raising horses and barrel racing which is where I developed an appreciation for a fine pedigree and seeing these genetics in action. From my first German Shepherd I found a passion for working dogs. My current adventure is my step into the world of protection sports. I am currently training for PSA which is a protection sport that focuses heavily on secondary obedience and control and strong nerves by creating a variety of scenarios designed to challenge the dog in all aspects. I also am trialing some of my dogs in American Schutzhund, which is very similar to the globally recognized IGP sport. Breeding for a Purpose With a passion for working dogs, each litter is carefully planned to combine the best genes for the pups intended use. Pups are placed in homes not by their looks but rather by evaluating each puppy's drives and key attributes. We will discuss your specific needs and intended use so that we can match you with the perfect dog or puppy. You will have flexibility in choosing your puppy, however I will make the recommendations on which puppy or puppies I believe are the best fit for your needs and lifestyle. I breed to produce excellent representatives of the breed, puppies who are evironmentally stable, structurally correct, dark pigment, good drives, and excellent workability. I aim to produce puppies best suited for sport, protection, working dogs SAR, police, service but also stable enough to be in active family homes. I have placed pups in working venues including Police, SAR, sports, service, and personal protection with high success rate. Preview our sales contract Good Dog Breeder! My kennel has been screened and recognized by Good Dog as a responsible breeding program with Excellent level health testing practices. Click on my Good Dog badge to view my kennel profile on the Good Dog website! What makes our puppies special? Follow the link below to learn what we include with each puppy and how we go above and beyond in raising each litter to give them the best chance at success. For the complete list please see our German Shepherd in Your Area page. In Louisiana, you will have the option of purchasing either a purebred or crossbreed dog. You should avoid purchasing from backyard breeders or pet stores because these dogs may not receive proper care and in many cases are in poor health. An excellent place to find German Shepherd puppies for sale in Louisiana is by contacting local breeders and asking about their available litters. Breeders will often make themselves available for potential buyers to visit the litter and allow them to interact with the puppies before choosing one that best fits into your family structure. Look for people who own the type of dog you are interested in and speak to them about their experiences with their breeder. You can talk with your veterinarian or contact your local kennel club for more information on breeders they recommend. Another way to find a responsible German Shepherd Breeder is to visit online message boards that are dedicated to the breed. You can pose a question about where you can find reputable breeders in your area and ask for personal recommendations. It is important to meet with the breeder before purchasing any type of dog to ensure that they are knowledgeable about their breeding practices, have taken proper steps for genetic testing, and do not keep their dogs in poor conditions. To learn more, contact local kennel clubs or veterinarians who specialize in German Shepherds for more information on finding a reputable breeder. This will allow you to see where the puppies are kept and interact with the dogs before making your final decision on which one is best for you. During your visit, look around at what kind of environment they have for their dogs. Are the dogs looked after properly? Do they receive enough space inside, or do they spend most of their time outside? A good breeder will socialize their puppies with gentle human interaction to help them become well-rounded animals. For more information on finding a reputable breeder, contact local kennel clubs and veterinarians who specialize in German Shepherds for more information. How to Find Puppy Mills And Backyard Breeders in Louisiana Unfortunately, there are all too many unethical breeders looking to make a quick buck that will sell their puppies to anyone with money. Backyard breeders do not care about genetic testing or providing an environment where dogs can grow up healthy and happy; they only care about making a profit at the expense of the animals. Many backyard breeders keep their dogs in cramped conditions without access to proper veterinary care or sanitation options. A responsible breeder will have happy customers who can speak to the quality of their puppies and the care they received from the breeder. References can be extremely valuable when it comes time to choosing a breeder, as they can give you an idea of the kind of experience you can expect when purchasing a puppy from them. Ask your potential breeder for references and then take the time to contact them. If possible, try to visit their home and meet their dogs to get a first-hand account of what life is like with them. References can also be a good place to start if you are looking for a reputable breeder in your area. Contact local kennel clubs or veterinarians who specialize in German Shepherds for more information. If they refuse, this is a major red flag and you should look for a different breeder immediately. By meeting both parents, not only will you learn more about what kind of personality traits they may exhibit, but it will also give you an idea about how large they are likely to become as adults. Be wary of any breeder who does not allow you to interact with their dogs in person. If a breeder refuses, this is a major red flag and you should look for a different breeder immediately. Good breeders will socialize their puppies with gentle human interaction to help them become well-rounded animals. You should always ask your breeder if they have a veterinarian that they work with. This means that, in the event of an emergency, the breeder will be able to contact a professional without any trouble. If you want to bring your German Shepherd puppy home and you know a good veterinarian in your area, it is a good idea to ask for their information so you can start taking him or her in as soon as possible. A responsible breeder will also keep veterinary records on all of their animals and provide them to both you and the new veterinarian upon request. Puppy mills and backyard breeders do not adhere to humane standards when breeding dogs; instead, they view them as livestock that exists solely for profit. These unethical breeders often keep their dogs in cramped and unsanitary conditions, without proper veterinary care or socialization. As a result, the puppies they produce often have temperament and health problems. Some common warning signs include: The breeder does not have any information on the parents of the puppies The breeder does not allow you to meet the parents of the puppies The breeder does not allow you to interact with the puppies in person The breeder keeps their dogs in cramped and unsanitary conditions The breeder does not provide veterinary records to new owners The breeder charges excessive prices for puppies If you encounter a breeder who exhibits any of these signs, please report them to your local animal welfare organization. Puppy mills and backyard breeders should be shut down in order to protect the welfare of the dogs involved. When looking for a German Shepherd breeder in Louisiana, it is important to keep in mind that not all breeders are created equal. Some breeders are more interested in making a profit than in providing quality puppies, while others take great care in the breeding and raising of their dogs. By following these tips, you can help ensure that you find a healthy, happy puppy. Good breeders will screen their dogs for genetic health issues and will not breed animals who are prone to developing certain diseases. If you are considering buying a German Shepherd puppy, it is important to be aware of some common health problems that these dogs can suffer from, such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and elbow dysplasia. Puppy mills and backyard breeders often do not screen their puppies for health problems, which can lead to expensive vet bills down the road. When looking for a Louisiana German Shepherd breeder, always ask about the health of the puppies. A good breeder will be happy to answer any questions you have and give you a clean bill of health for both your puppy and its parents. The following are some common items that new German Shepherd owners usually have around their house: A crate.
To complete this step, use two symmetrical curved lines and an arc at the bottom of them. Add the facial features of the Golden Retriever. Now you should add two oval eyes and the nose using a curved line. Depict the top of the head and ears. Draw curved lines above the previously drawn elements and on the sides of the head. Sketch out the torso and forelimbs of the dog. Below the previously drawn head, draw curved lines, as shown in the figure. Add the fingers on the front legs of the dog. At the bottom of the previously drawn paws, draw short, curved lines to indicate the toes. Start drawing the back of the Golden Retriever. On the right and left sides of the previously drawn torso and front legs, add curved lines. Finish drawing the torso and paws. Draw the flanked feet and lower torso using curved lines. Add the outlines of the fingers on the hind legs. Color the drawing. To color the Golden Retriever, use beige, gray, and black. I remind you that you can download the PDF file that I have prepared especially for your convenience. This file contains a short version of this lesson and has additional useful training materials. Download this file so as not to lose it and return to this lesson at any time convenient for you. Step back and admire your simple and easy golden retriever drawing. Follow the step-by-step instructions provided in this guide to draw a golden retriever in a lifelike manner. Pay attention to the details of the face and coat, capturing the friendly and loyal essence of this breed. Can I learn how to draw a golden retriever face in easy steps? This tutorial breaks down the drawing process into 13 easy-to-follow steps, allowing you to gradually build the portrait of a golden retriever face with confidence and skill. Are golden retrievers friendly and loyal companions for life? Golden retrievers are known for their friendly and loyal nature, making them wonderful companions for life. Drawing a golden retriever allows you to capture their unique qualities on paper and create a lasting tribute to these beloved dogs. Why is step-by-step drawing helpful? Step-by-step drawing provides a structured approach, breaking down the complex subject into manageable steps. This method allows beginners to learn and progress gradually, gaining confidence and improving their drawing skills. How can I make the golden retriever drawing look easy and cute? While following the steps, you can add your personal touch to make the drawing even cuter. Focus on capturing the expressions in the eyes, adding fluffy details to the coat, and giving the dog a playful and happy appearance. This tutorial is designed for artists of all skill levels, including beginners. By following the step-by-step instructions and practicing regularly, you can create a beautiful golden retriever drawing regardless of your experience. How can I create a dog portrait that truly represents a golden retriever? To create a dog portrait that captures the essence of a golden retriever, pay attention to the specific features and proportions of the breed. Focus on the characteristic face shape, expressive eyes, and the golden color of their fur. How can I make drawing golden retrievers easier? Drawing golden retrievers can be made easier by breaking down the process into simple and manageable steps. Are there any specific tips for drawing a golden retriever face? When drawing a golden retriever face, pay close attention to the eyes, nose, and mouth. Golden retrievers have expressive eyes, so capturing their essence is important. Observe the shape and positioning of the eyes, and add small details like reflections to bring them to life. Can you provide some simple golden retriever drawing techniques? This will provide a framework to build upon. Pay attention to light and shadow areas to create a realistic effect. Vary the length and direction of the strokes to add texture and realism. This will help you capture their essence in your drawing. How long does it take to draw a golden retriever using this method? The time it takes to complete a golden retriever drawing using this method may vary depending on your skill level, attention to detail, and the amount of time you dedicate to each step. On average, following the 13 easy steps outlined in this tutorial may take around 30 minutes to an hour. However, remember that the focus should be on enjoying the process and honing your skills rather than rushing to finish. Can I customize my golden retriever drawing with additional details? Once you have mastered the basic steps and structure of drawing a golden retriever, feel free to add your own personal touches and details. You can experiment with different color variations, create unique backgrounds, or even add accessories to make the drawing more personalized and reflective of your artistic style. Drawing a golden retriever can be a rewarding and enjoyable experience, especially when using the step-by-step approach outlined in this guide. By incorporating the easy and simple techniques shared, you can create stunning golden retriever drawings that capture their friendly and lovable nature. Remember to practice regularly, be patient with yourself, and have fun exploring your artistic abilities. Happy drawing! Related Article:. Written step-by-step video tutorial: For the first few steps, don't press down too hard with your pencil. Use light, smooth strokes to begin. Step 1: Draw two circles as guides for the first part of the golden retriever's body. First draw four small marks for the height and width of the circle, then connect the marks using curved lines. Sketch lightly at first so that it's easy to erase if you make a mistake. But the circles don't have to be perfect. They're just guides. If you do want perfect circles, trace the outer rim of a coin, a bottle cap or any other object with a circular edge. The circle on the right should be smaller than the one on the left, and their edges should touch. Place the circle on the right slightly higher so that the top edges of both circles are at the same level. Step 2: Draw another circle on the top, left side as a guide for the golden retriever's head. Draw this circle the same way. First draw four marks that indicate the height and width, then connect the marks using curved lines. The edges of the circles should touch. This circle should be a bit smaller than the body circle on the right. Step 3: Draw a curved horizontal line across the golden retriever's head. This is a construction line that will help you place the dog's facial features later. Add a curved vertical line on the top left side of the head for another construction line. Step 4: Draw a small circle on the lower left side of the head as a guide for the dog's muzzle. The top edge of this circle should touch the construction line, and the bottom edge should be outside of the head. The left edge of the circle should also be outside the head. Pay attention to the size of this circle in relation to the golden retriever's head. On the right side of the head, below the horizontal construciton line, draw a V-shaped line for the golden retriever's other ear. Add an extra line on the V-shaped line that attaches to the edge of the head. Pay attention to the various sizes and shapes within the artwork of the golden retriever. The pencil lines in each step is drawn in blue so you can observe the most recent shapes that you should be illustrating. Time Needed: 30 minutes Start the head off by drawing an oval shape. Draw Floppy Ears Erase some of the head and add floppy ears. Add in the second leg next to the first one. The fluffy part of the tail should be added towards the right side of the page. Add A Hind Leg Draw one of the back legs connecting to the tail. Add Stomach And Last Leg Draw the fluffy belly as if it were connecting to the chest and tail, then add in the last leg. Draw A Face Give this dog a cute, smiling face. Add A Collar The dog needs a collar so we know who the owners are. Add In Some Color Golden retrievers can be colored in with a golden yellow, and have lighter fur on the underside of their bellies and tails. The last page of the downloadable PDF includes a coloring book page with just the outlines and an extension exercise for prompting kids to get creative! They were originally bred as a sporting dog and favored for their ability to traverse a wide range of conditions including cold weather and water. They have beautiful coats of long golden-colored fur. This fur does shed often especially with the change of seasons. Golden Retrievers have a dense coat of inner fur which helps them stay warm in colder climates and also shields some hot weather as well. Golden Retrievers are prized for their positive disposition. They are generally friendly to their family members and any strangers they encounter whether it be human or other dogs. They are typically calm dogs, quite intelligent, and have an exceptional eagerness to please. This makes them excellent pets and no mystery as to why they make popular family pets. Golden Retrievers rank as the 4th most popular dog in American family households. Step 2: Draw the Eyes Add eyes to our furry friend by drawing two shaded ovals. Step 4: Form the Upper Mouth Outline the upper mouth by drawing two curved lines facing upwards attached to the nose. Step 5: Add the Tongue Draw a U-shape just below the upper mouth to add a tongue to our drawing. Step 6: Draw the Lower Mouth Add the lower mouth of the Golden Retriever by creating two curvy lines similar to the illustration. Step 7: Outline the Fur Add a pointy shape below the head to give fur to our Golden Retriever drawing. Then, use a black crayon to color the inside of the mouth. Next, use a pink crayon to shade the tongue. Keep Drawing! Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Now you will acquire useful skills that will be useful in the future. Read more: How to Draw a Golden Retriever If you want to learn how to draw dogs, then you will definitely like this lesson, because now we will show you how to draw a Golden Retriever. This is a calm dog that adapts well to family life. The Retrievers are playful, friendly, intelligent and affectionate dogs. During the lesson, consider the individual characteristics of this breed and try to observe all proportions. With the help of round figures, indicate the position of the head, thoracic region, and pelvis. Connect the main parts of the body and determine the position of the tail. Sketch out the limbs. Using a few thin lines, depict the position of the front and hind limbs. Draw the folds as large dots. Detail the head. Begin to give body parts the desired shape and volume. In this step draw the outer contour of the head, add the ear, eye, nose, and mouth. Add the outline of the torso and tail. Focus on the auxiliary lines and depict the back, which smoothly passes into the tail. Draw the contour of the thoracic region and the contour of the belly. Draw the front paws. Use the guidelines as a guide and give the front legs the desired shape and volume. Draw the fingers at the bottom. Depict the hind legs. Give the hind legs the desired thickness and volume, taking into account all the anatomical features. Add the fingers at the bottom. Sketch out the fur. Correct inaccuracies. Now the main outlines are ready, and you can remove unnecessary lines in your drawing and correct mistakes if necessary. Color the drawing. For coloring fur, use different shades of orange. Color in black for the eyes, nose, and mouth. Highlight the dark areas. Now you have completed all the steps in this instruction and learned how to draw a Golden Retriever. Write what breeds of dogs you like and offer your ideas for the next drawing lessons. Subscribe to us on social networks and follow the news.
Dog Whisperer Hypoallergenic Puppy Shampoo This puppy shampoo uses vitamin E and Pro-V B5, organic aloe vera, and rosemary leaf extract to create a gentle shampoo that also conditions young coats. It also comes with a waterless shampoo that you can use to freshen up your pup between washes if they do manage to get into some dirty trouble. Like with all things, you will need to train your dog in terms of what is expected of them at bath time. The best approach is to use positive reinforcement training. This means showing them what you want, and then rewarding them when they comply. Each time you bathe them they will have a better understanding of what you need from them. Make sure you have a good space prepared before you get started. You might want to set yourself up inside the shower or outside, as they may make quite a bit of water mess. Make sure the water that you use is lukewarm. Not only will this be less of a shock to them, but it also minimizes the problems relating to cold and regulating body temperature. Get them completely wet, maybe pouring water over them using a cup. Then you are ready to add your chosen shampoo. Rub gently without applying too much pressure. While you want to be thorough and get the shampoo everywhere, avoid the eyes and try not to let the shampoo get into their mouth or ears. When you are done, make sure that you rinse thoroughly as shampoo residue can irritate their skin if left behind. If it is not a leave-in conditioner, make sure to rinse thoroughly again with lukewarm water. Before releasing them into the wild, you will want to get them as dry as possible. A good rub down with their own towel is usually enough to do the trick. The sound of the machine is very likely to scare your dog. You can get special dog hair dryers that are designed to make almost no noise, but unless your dog has a particularly long or thick coat, it is probably not necessary. Try to use the same process every time you bathe your dog, and do it in the same place. Your puppy will find reassurance in the routine. If you choose to bathe them somewhere different every time, it will be much harder for them to associate this bath with their previous bath and repeat the behaviors that they learned. You can find more Labrador retriever grooming tips here. FAQs Can I bathe my puppy once a week? If your puppy leads an active, outdoor lifestyle, you might feel like you want to bathe them as often as once a week. This is fine as long as you use an appropriate shampoo and monitor their coat and skin for reactions. You should only bathe them more than once a week in a mud-related emergency. Why do puppies shiver after a bath? Yep, your puppy is shivering after a bath because they are cold. As the water evaporates off their body, it cools them down significantly. Dogs will shake to remove as much water as possible and warm up more quickly, and a nice toweling down can also help. Should you give a puppy a bath when you bring them home? You might be tempted to give your puppy a bath as soon as you bring them home, but this urge is best resisted. Even if they are already of bathing age, it is better to let them settle in for two weeks before giving them a bath. Changing the scent that they are familiar with can make it more difficult for them to adjust to their new home. Plus, bath time can be a little traumatic, so you should wait until they trust you. Is it OK to let your puppy air dry? It is generally not advised to let your puppy air dry as they are likely to roll around in the grass and dirt in order to dry off and remove any shampoo smell. The result might mean that they need another bath. A good toweling down is usually enough to get your dog sufficiently dry. The biggest challenge for many new pet parents is that they are overzealous in wanting to care for their new canine friends, so they start bathing their puppy too soon and too often. Bathing your puppy too soon can put their health at risk and make it harder for them to settle into their new home. You should also wait at least two weeks after bringing them home before bathing them to make it easier for them to adjust. If you want to freshen them up a bit, best to reach for a brush. Do you have any essential bathing tips for new pups? Share them with the community in the comments section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I have a towel fluffing in a warm dryer to wrap them up in when the bath is done. I have a Kool-Dry dryer, which is really nice to use on them, as you can adust the airflow from way low, to blow-a-big dog-off-the-table-high! We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Labs have a thick, water-repellent coat that tends to be on the oily side. This coat is designed to keep the Labrador warm and dry even in fridged water conditions. Too frequent bathing can strip the oil from the coat, robbing it of its water-repellent qualities and drying out the skin. So, how often should you bathe your lab? Labradors should be bathed no more than once per month to avoid stripping their coats of natural oils and drying out their skin. If a Labrador spends most of its time inside, then the time between baths may be much longer. Since we advise bathing as infrequently as possible, there are certain things you should do beforehand to get the most out of each bath. Additionally, there are a couple things you want to avoid doing as well. I'll discuss these in detail in this article, and give some tips that will make bathing a piece of cake! In this article Things to do before bathing You won't need to bathe your Lab very often soit is important that you make the most of each bath time by thinking about whatto do before you bathe. Brushing The Labrador's coarse coat is not prone to matting, but it is still important to brush your Labrador's coat in order to remove loose hair, dirt, and debris prior to bathing. Wouldn't you rather your dog's fur end up neatly collected in the garbage bin, rather than clogging up the hair trap in your shower? A self-cleaning slicker brush is a great option for safely removing all of your Labrador's loose hair as well as for distributing the oil throughout your dog's coat. The self-cleaning feature is especially nice for the Labrador's short rough fur, which can be difficult to remove from traditional slicker brushes. Get your dog tired Most Labradors love the water. After all, swimming is what this breed is made for. While it may not be challenging to get your dog into the bath, you may have a hard time getting them to stand still instead of having a blast playing in the water. If you want a more relaxing bathing experience, it's a great idea to thoroughly wear your dog out by taking them for a long run or playing an extended game of fetch before you give them a bath. Clean your Labradors ears Labradors can be prone to dirty ears and ear infections, thanks to their oily skin and the flopped nature of the ears. It is very important to regularly clean your Labrador's ears. This can often be a messy process, as your dog may have a tendency of shaking their head and sending ear cleaner and gunk all over. It's a good idea to take care of ear cleaning before you give your dog a bath so that you can clean off the debris from the ear cleaning as well. Things to avoid before giving your dog a bath It's important to plan out your dog's bathing routine so that you can avoid bathing them at inopportune times. Here are a couple things you want to avoid doing in the days leading up to giving them a bath: Topical flea treatments If you give your dog topical flea treatment, usually by rubbing the medication between the shoulder blades, you should wait at least 24 hours before bathing. Since Labs are large dogs with thick coats, it is advisable to wait at least 48 hours after applying a topical flea treatment before you bathe your dog. Topical anti-itch treatments Unfortunately, many Labradors are prone to itchy skin. If you use a topical anti-itch cream for your dog, it is best to wait until it is nearly time to reapply before bathing so that you don't waste the topical treatment or cause an interaction between the treatment and the shampoo that you are using When should you give a Labrador puppy their first bath? As cuddly and cute as they are, Labrador puppies often find themselves getting in sticky situations. That's right. Sticky, stinky, dirty, wet - you name it. So, naturally, we will want to freshen them up and keep them as cute as possible! But when is it too early to bathe a Lab puppy? Labrador puppies should not be bathed with soap until they are at least 3 months old. Until then, warm water and a rag should be used exclusively. At 3 months, you should use sensitive soap that has been diluted during the first couple of baths to avoid skin irritation. This isn't unique to Labradors, either. The AKC recommends that all puppies follow this gradual approach. Additional guidance is that you should consult your vet to determine if any special soaps should be used. Shampoos for puppies and older Labs For most of their lives, your Labrador will do well with any high-quality shampoo. Since you don't want to strip the oils from their skin any more than necessary, it is best to choose a shampoo designed for sensitive skin. Gentle shampoo is even more important for puppies and older Labs. For your puppy, choose a shampoo made especially for puppies, ideally a shampoo that is formulated with oatmeal. Look for a shampoo that advertises being hypoallergenic and soothing for your dog's skin. It's a good idea to choose a puppy shampoo that has calming herbs such as lavender since it can be stressful as your puppy becomes accustomed to bathing. This shampoo formulated with colloidal oatmeal and lavender is a good choice for tear-free puppy baths. Older dogs Your older Labrador will benefit from an especially sensitive shampoo that moisturizes the skin. Look for a shampoo that is pH balanced so that it doesn't bother sensitive skin. Ingredients like aloe vera help to balance the levels of oil in the skin while cleaning. Avoid anything that contains alcohol or harsh chemicals. This shampoo formulated for sensitive skin which is free of soap and contains ingredients like aloe vera and almond oil to condition your older dog's coat is an excellent choice for the aging Lab. What to use if you don't have shampoo If you find yourself without shampoo when your dog has gotten into something particularly filthy don't panic. Blue Dawn dish soap is a safe and effective way to clean your dog and kill adult fleas. Blue Dawn is quite gentle, but it does contain strong cleansers and should never be used regularly. However, if you find yourself in a pinch, this is a great option. For those who go on camping trips with their Labs, you'll appreciate the ability to clean your camping dishes and your dog with the same soap. Cleaning a Lab's ears It is important for most breeds to maintain clean ears, but for the Labrador, ear cleaning is especially essential. Dogs with floppy ears, such as the Labrador, are more prone to ear infections and other ear diseases than breeds with upright ears or ears that fold over at the tip. The floppy ears paired with a Lab's oily skin means that Labradors are especially prone to ear infections. Ever wonder why Labrador ears are floppy? Don't over clean! It is important to regularly clean your dog's ears to prevent ear infections, but it is also important not to over clean, as this can lead to irritation and infections as well. Therefore, you should only clean your Labrador's ears when they need it. A healthy, clean ear is pink and has no odor. When you notice black or brown dirt or debris building up around the ear or if the ear has a stinky or yeasty smell to it, it is time to clean. Ear cleaners Choose an ear cleaner that is approved by veterinarians, is gentle, and cleans with minimum scrubbing and trauma to your dog's ears. If your dog is very prone to ear infections as many Labradors are, an ear cleaner containing hydrocortisone that is designed to combat bacterial, yeast, and viral infections may be a good option. Fill your dog's ear canal with the cleaner by holding your dog's ear canal open. Spread the cleaner around the ear canal, using your fingers to massage the base of the ear. You should be able to hear the cleaner squishing around the ear. Most dogs have an impulse to shake their heads during this process, so it is a good idea to hold your dog's head firmly while you massage the ear. Next, pour the cleaner out of your dog's ear canal or allow them to shake their head to get it out. Use cotton balls or gauze to firmly wipe the interior of your dog's ear, taking care to get into any crevices. You may need to soak a cotton ball in some more ear cleaner in order to remove any stuck-on debris. How to wash a dog's face Labradors have shorter, softer hair on their face, which means that their faces often seem more oily than the rest of their coat. If you find that your Labrador has an oily face before you're ready to give them a bath, you can use gentle wet wipes made especially for dogs to remove the excess oil and get your Lab's face smelling nice again. When bathing your Lab, take special care when washing the face to make sure that water doesn't get into the ear canals, which can make ear infections more likely. In order to avoid this, pinch the ear canal closed while wetting the face. The best way to dry off your Lab You can dry off your Labrador by rubbing them down with a towel. It's wise to use one towel to soak up most of the moisture and another to vigorously rub the coat and remove the rest of the water. Because Labradors have a water-resistant coat, they tend to shed water after a bath quite easily. Minimizing the wet dog smell Have you noticed that after giving your Labrador a bath they actually smell worse with a strong wet dog smell? The smell will go away as your dog dries, but it may take a couple of hours and leave your house smelling like dog for some time. If you really want to avoid the wet dog smell, try blow-drying your dog after a bath in order to eliminate the last bit of moisture in their coat. Things to watch out for in the days after If this is the first time that you have bathed your dog or if you are switching to a different shampoo, it is especially important to monitor them closely after their bath to make sure they don't have an allergic reaction to any of the ingredients in the shampoo that you used. Look for dry, itchy skin, redness, or signs of lethargy or refusal to eat. Dogs often shed more right after a bath, so it's a good idea to brush your dog again after bathing and continue to brush more frequently for the next day or two until all of the shed hair has gone. Lastly, monitor their ears. Their floppy ears make them more prone to ear infections, so catching any signs of irritation at the onset may save a trip to the vet if you can clean out the ears and keep them dry! Labradors enjoy getting out while having fun and getting dirty. While labs are terrific in water, they need regular brushing and cleaning. It keeps them warm and dry. Frequent bathing can strip the natural oil production from the coat, leading to dry skin. Yes, all dogs and predominantly puppies, need bathing and grooming. However, when it comes to a lab, the minimal is better. Labradors come with a wonderfully thick water-repellent coat. But labs regularly get very messy while rolling and stomping through the dirt. Owing to this, their fur and paws catch onto dirt or other foul items. They also start smelling over time. Therefore, bathing them is necessary. Labradors have a double coat type and are heavy shedders, and a good grooming routine is a must to remove excess hair. Bathing the lab once every month should be your golden rule. Bathing your lab more often can result in them losing essential oils from the dog coat. Due to a higher activity level, Labs spend much time rolling in mud and dirt. In these cases, you should bathe them frequently. Spray them with lukewarm water or wipe them with a wet cloth. If your lab smells a lot or has skin issues, opt for frequent baths after consulting a vet. Always use a detangling spray to remove the dead hair. Take action at once against itchy skin to prevent skin irritation. How to Bathe a Labrador Labrador Retriever? The next step is to know how to regularly clean a lab. When cleaning them, you should wash their dense coat correctly and ensure you use the right products. You need to follow five steps when considering bathing your lab. Preparation First, focus on finding the right place. Washing your lab can get messy, so you must choose a place like the garden or bathroom. Also, please wear old clothes as they will get dirty. Ready all your tools, like a good gentle shampoo , dog conditioner, hair dryer, etc. Do not use human shampoo as it can affect the skin of your lab and can make them sick. For example, when you plan to bathe your dog, a comfortable water temperature is key for your pet. When you start, get their coat thoroughly wet. Their coat is water-repellant, and hence it might take a while. You should put water on your dog in parts, not all in a go. Bath your Labrador After wetting the coat, apply dog shampoo on the body and work up a lather while massaging your dog. Let the shampoo rest for a few minutes before rinsing your dog. Repeat the process multiple times if your lab is dirty. If you use a conditioner, follow the same step as shampoo. Dry your Labrador After you rinse your lab, you should start drying them using towels. Ensure it is not too close to their skin, as it might scare them and cause itchy skin. Take a cotton ball and ear cleaners and ensure no water is left in the ear canal or the ears. This is very important. Else it may lead to infections. Bath Time Cleaning a pup with shampoo until they reach three months old is not wise. Moreover, using only a shampoo approved for puppies would be best. It is dangerous for the pups to wash them before the right age as a puppy cannot regulate the temperature and can get sick. While you clean your puppies regularly, they have the habit of wandering off and being messy. Hence keeping them clean between baths is an ask. Brushing their coats regularly, at least once every week Using a dry medicated shampoo and conditioner so that the coat smells fresh Keep their dental hygiene intact Use dog wipes to keep them clean regularly how often do you bathe a puppy what are the Benefits When you Groom labrador and give them baths? Labs require low maintenance when it comes to grooming. They do not need frequent haircuts or grooming sessions. But they do need occasional baths to keep themselves clean. Labs have a double coat and shed a lot more than other breeds. Baths and brushing keep them neat and clean. If you have more than one lab, it is easier to bathe them together. Expert advice is that it is always best for you to wash them separately unless you have people who can accompany and help you in the process. If you have an older labrador or older dogs, it is possible to have pain, stiffness, or other issues that will not allow them to move as freely as they would want. For example, they cannot jump in and out of the bathtub like younger dogs and pups. In such cases, you must find a place in your home, like the shower area, where your pet can walk in and out without any hassle of jumping and climbing. No, it is not recommended. Can I bathe my labradoodle once a week? Use a gentle puppy shampoo Can you bathe a lab too much? People often mistake bathing their lab or labradoodle too many times. Labs have a double coat on their body, and their skin excretes natural oils. When you bathe your pup, the oil is washed away and replenished automatically after a few days. But if you clean them too much, they will lose the natural oils necessary for maintaining healthy skin and coats. Also, it can irritate and result in fungal or bacterial infection. Labs love water but at times some dogs can be a bit scared at first. Is it okay to take a 1-month old Labrador for a bath? No, you should not take a puppy below 3 months of age for bathing Never use shampoo or other products for such young pups. Instead, try using a wet cloth that will be good for their sensitive skin. How many times should we bathe our dog in summer? If you live in a tropical country with a middle-sized lab, bathing them once a week is OK. In non-tropical countries, once per weeks is recommended. First, they can get skin infections , rashes, and develop other diseases. They start smelling pretty bad as well. Can I use cold water for bathing my puppy? Using cold water to bathe your puppy is not advisable; always use lukewarm water. What should I keep in mind while bathing my pup? Be careful when pouring water. Keep someone at hand for help. Else it can lead to ear infections. Use a slicker brush or other tools for better grooming. No, you should not bathe a 6 week old puppy. Their immune system is developing, and they can easily get sick from bathing too soon. It is recommended to wait until your puppy is at least 8 weeks old before bathing them. Dogs lick themselves after a bath for a few reasons. One reason is to remove any dirt or debris that may still be on their fur. Another reason is to spread their scent around, which helps them to feel more secure. Finally, some dogs simply enjoy the feeling of licking themselves. You should wait at least 10 days after your puppy is born before bathing them. No, you should not wash your dog with human shampoo. It can dry out their skin and make them more susceptible to allergies. Many dog-specific shampoos are available, so be sure to use one. You should bathe your mother dog after giving birth if she is visibly dirty or has any matted fur areas. However, you should avoid bathing her too often, as this can dry out her skin and fur. Yes, you can wash your dog with cold water in summer. In fact, it is often a good idea to do so, as this can help to keep them cool. Yes, you can bathe a puppy at 7 weeks old. However, you should still be gentle with them and avoid using harsh shampoos. They are caused by the way that the skin folds around the base of the tail. However, genetics may play a role. Golden retrievers should be bathed every weeks. However, if they are getting dirty more often than that, you may need to bathe them more frequently. However, the amount a dog groomer gets paid can vary depending on their experience, location, and the type of grooming services they offer. No, you should not use dog wipes on yourself. Dog wipes are designed for use on dogs and they may contain ingredients that are not safe for humans. There are a few reasons why your dog might hate being brushed. One reason is that they may have had a bad experience with brushing. Another reason is that they may have sensitive skin that is easily irritated by brushing. Conclusion Though your furry friend might look easy to manage with a coat, it needs regular attention to ensure they stay in top condition. Ensuring regular grooming at least once every week and bathe them when they get dirty is a good idea and will help keep them clean. It ensures good health. As pet parents, you should be responsible enough to ensure the proper grooming of your lab puppy. With extensive research and personal experiences, Aritra has become a Labrador expert, offering a rich resource on the breed. The site serves as a comprehensive resource, offering a wealth of up-to-date information for Labrador owners and enthusiasts alike. Tips for keeping your Lab clean The Labrador Coat The Labrador has a double coat which means they have two layers; the topcoat is wiry and abrasive, while the undercoat is softer and lighter. Because they have a double coat, Labradors have minimal grooming needs compared to other breeds. Their coats do not grow long enough to encounter painful knots or tangles and do not require any expensive trips to the groomer for clipping. However, Labradors are heavy shedders, shedding all year round and having a complete blowout twice a year. Regular grooming and bathing can help remove excess fur and make your pet smell cleaner. Do Labradors Need Baths? Bathing followed by grooming can help minimize shedding and help those Labs with allergies. Finally, bathing allows you to look closely at your dog, checking for anything abnormal like lumps or skin infections and fleas, mites and lice. How Often Should a Labrador be Bathed? Bathing your Lab once a month is a good rule of thumb, as bathing too often removes essential oils from the coat. However, if your Lab spends a lot of time outdoors, then it is highly likely they will roll in the mud and dirt, so they may need bathing more frequently. If your Lab continuously gets dirty, you can spray them with lukewarm water from a shower or hose or wipe them with a damp cloth instead of bathing them. Excessive bathing may seem like a good idea to keep your Lab squeaky clean, but it can actually be harmful. Bathing too often strips Labradors of their natural oils, which they need for a healthy skin and coat, and can cause irritation. It also damages hair follicles, increases the risk of fungal and bacterial infections, and interferes with worming and flea treatments while leaving their coat looking dull and unhealthy. How to Bathe a Labrador When bathing a Labrador, you must clean their coat thoroughly and have the right products, so prepare beforehand. By Tom Massey Aug 30, You walk through your front door, and suddenly it hits you: Eau de dog — or, perhaps more familiarly, dog perfume. But in most cases, owners will try to beat the stink before it permeates throughout their living space. On the other hand, infrequent baths can make the scent of a dog linger. As a Labrador owner, you must find a happy medium for bathtime so your pup smells clean and fresh while maintaining its healthy, silky coat. So, how often should you bathe a dog? And more importantly, how do you comfortably bathe a large-sized dog like a Labrador Retriever? Do Labradors Like Water? Most Labs love swimming around in the water. The reason this dog breed enjoys bath time dates back to the history of the Labrador Retriever. In the s, Newfoundlander fishermen bred local working dogs with the Newfoundland breed and created a new dog breed: The St. This breed rapidly increased in popularity due to its innate ability to retrieve items from the water and swim. Later on, through additional breeding efforts, the Labrador Retriever was created. While historians have difficulty pinpointing the exact date of the Labrador breed, we know our water-loving canine friends descended from the since-extinct St. Our beloved canine pal was first introduced to the world with the Labrador name by the Earl of Malmesbury in the midth century. Everyone wanted this loyal, water-resistant, fetching dog to help with their fishing needs. In other words? The frequency in which you need to bathe a lab depends on the amount of time they spend outside and their affinity for dirt. If you have a yellow or white Lab, it will be easy to see dirt on their coat after their latest venture outside. Unless you see them rolling around in the dirt, you might not be able to tell they need a bath until the smell hits you. Typically, a Labrador Retriever should bathe once every four to six weeks. But beware: When it comes to dogs with a double coat like our Labrador friends , overbathing can cause dry skin and remove essential oils from their fur. These oils are vital since they help dogs regulate their body temperature. If you find that your Lab needs baths more frequently than the recommended four- to six-week period, consult with a licensed veterinarian about dog shampoo options. The vet can offer specific gentle shampoo recommendations that help maintain the natural oils while leaving your dog fresh and clean. Waterless baths and wipes can also assist with cleanup in between baths. The Benefits of Bathing a Lab First and foremost, one of the biggest benefits of regular Labrador bathing is eliminating the funky smell of a dirty dog. Benefit 1: Reduces Excessive Shedding from Their Double Coat Labrador Retrievers have a double coat that sheds year-round, with two major shedding seasons ahead of the summer and winter months. A regular bath will help manage the shedding by removing excess hair in a controlled space. When left untreated, dogs can become ill following a tick bite, so Labrador owners should be diligent about brushing and bathing after an extensive time outside in heavy brush. Dogs need to allow humans to touch their paws, ears, legs, and tail without becoming distressed or upset. Bathing Tips for Your Labrador Retriever If bath time feels like a chore for you, know that your dog likely feels the same. After all, some dogs would prefer a mud bath over sudsy bubbles! However, if you begin bathing your dog at a young age, it will slowly become comfortable with bath time. Just be sure that bath time is enjoyable — otherwise, your pup will loathe getting in the tub. In fact, it could even make your loveable, friendly dog wary of strangers in general. Watch for signs that your pup is anxious immediately before or after their visit to the groomer since this could mean you need to find a new shop to visit. The last thing a pet owner needs is a smelly dog that is apprehensive about bathing! Instead, they have growth plates, which are small areas of cartilage that serve as a placeholder until their bone structure grows. In severe cases, this could mean that your dog can develop an uneven limb. If your Labrador puppy slips and falls while trying to jump out of the tub, it could result in a growth plate injury. Image Source When bathtime is over, a ramp can help wet dogs get out of the tub without jumping over the side. Ramps keep dogs from injuring themselves or you — meaning no more bending over and physically picking your large pup out of the tub! Your furry friend will avoid bathing if they remember painful experiences associated with the bath and could develop frequent ear infections from excess soap. And not only will your Lab pup hate bathtime, but residue water can result in ear infections. There are also plenty of tools that help make bathtime easy for dogs and their owners. For example, a detachable showerhead allows free movement around the tub so that you can wash off the suds quickly and efficiently. Doing so will ensure that your dog is eager to take a bath. Labradors especially adore praise and positive attention. The toy should be entertaining and only obtainable during bath time. Presenting your pup with this special bath toy will strengthen their positive association with the tub and keep them occupied while you hose them down. Why is it essential to have an exclusive bath toy? Well, toys that are frequently available lose their appeal after a while. However, if your dog expects to play with a specific toy during bath time, it makes them more likely to hop in the tub. Make sure to provide them with their favorite treat, be it peanut butter or a name-brand dog snack. If this is the case with your Labrador Retriever, you may want to schedule a visit with your local veterinarian because there may be underlying medical issues causing a lingering odor to persist after a bath. Here are some of the most common reasons Labs still hold onto a nasty smell after bath time. Your dog may experience allergies and have grown an intolerance to one of the primary ingredients in its regular food. Reason 2: Compacted Anal Glands If an unpleasant smell lingers following a bath, it might be time to have a veterinarian examine their anal glands. Animals have fluid from their rectum that releases during their bowel movements, but these glands can become impacted for some pets. As plaque builds up, teeth and gum health declines, resulting in an unpleasant smell. Reason 4: Bacterial or Fungal Infections Every dog has a form of healthy yeast on its skin. However, sometimes the yeast can get out of control and cause a nasty fungal infection. An overgrowth of yeast can cause excessive skin issues like irritation, dandruff, thickened skin, or a putrid smell. Bacterial infections are often caused by underlying medical issues like parasites, allergies, or autoimmune diseases. Share on. Choosing the best products Do Labradors Need Baths? So, when this happens, they will need a bath! This might not be as regular as other breeds who have longer, or curly fur. In fact, many Labrador owners will simply wash their dogs as and when the process is needed, rather than on a set schedule. About the Labrador Coat Labradors have short, dense fur made up of two layers. This means they have relatively low grooming needs compared to many other dogs. But, they are also heavy shedders. Labs will shed moderately all year round, and heavily during their highest shedding periods. Labrador coats are also water resistant, a trait which was very useful in their original days of working alongside fishermen in Newfoundland, Canada. So, you must be very thorough when washing them to ensure all of their coat is properly cleaned and dried. By the time your Labrador puppy comes home with you at 8 weeks, some breeders may have already given them their first bath! Puppies have a fear period between 8 and 12 weeks where they should be socialized to new experiences. Bathtime should be included in this process! Labs who experience bath time as puppies will often be much happier with the process as adults! Labrador grooming needs are quite low, and this includes bathtime. Many Labs will easily be able to go months without having a bath. Often, Labrador owners prefer to use their judgement when giving their dog a bath. Since they have such short, easy coats, tangles and knots are rare. You will need to wash your Labrador when this happens. Washing a Labrador too often can strip their fur of these oils. Tips for Bathing a Labrador Adult Labs are large dogs, so washing and drying them can be quite the feat! Here are some tips that should make the entire process a little easier. Prepare all of your products and tools before bringing your Lab in. Enlist the help of someone else if possible! Make sure your Lab is used to baths from a young age. Associate the process with something great, like tasty treats. Dry your Labrador thoroughly for best results, and to avoid wet dog smell! How to Choose the Right Products Having all the right products and tools at your disposal will also make bathing a Labrador easier. So, invest in those before trying to give your Lab a bath. Take your time looking at the different dog shampoos and conditioners available. There are a lot of products out there, but some are better quality than others. You can even get an expert opinion from your local groomers.
They are not bred with standard Poodles due to the size difference. They were bred in the US first to combine the intelligence and hypoallergenic coat of the Poodle with the friendly and affectionate nature of the Pekingese. It is a low maintenance breed and is well suited to many different types of household. They are companion animals and will always want to be close to their owners. You will usually find they are a first generation cross with a purebred Poodle and Pekingese parent. This is because breeding Peekapoo with Peekapoo may increase the risk of genetic health conditions. Peekapoo Appearance As this is a designer dog, there is no official breed standard. This means there is a large variation in puppy appearances. The Peekapoo is small and well proportioned. They have a fluffy tail that most often curls over the body. They tend to inherit the brachycephalic muzzle of the Pekingese causing their face to be flat. Their ears hang down and grow long hair which may be kept or clipped off to avoid getting dirty. Their coat is long to medium length and is wavy. They inherit the hypoallergenic coat from their Poodle parents and are low shedding dogs. Height and Weight The Peekapoo is only a small dog. Fully grown they will weigh between 8 to 20 pounds and they only stand 9 to 11 inches tall. Coat and Colors Their coat is their crowning glory. Much like its royal Pekingese parent, its coat grows long and is extremely soft. These pups have curls from their Poodle parent which allows dander to be trapped. This makes them low shedding and well suited for people with allergies. Most owners tend to keep their coat cut short to reduce grooming requirements. The Peekapoo comes in a huge variety of coat colors and markings. This colorful mix makes every litter of puppies exciting. You never really know what variety of coat colors you are going to find! Peekapoo Temperament The Peekapoo has some fantastic character traits that make them a joy to own and spend time with. They are well known for being a loyal, loving companion dog. They are intelligent but sometimes a pain to train. The best way to really understand the variety of character traits your pooch may inherit is to look at their parents. The Pekingese is Chinese royalty. These dogs have been loved for years by emperors and their courts. They are difficult to train as they have independent minds. They are still highly intelligent and adore their families but they are more lively than the Standard Poodle. The smaller Poodle varieties are more likely to bond strongly with one member of the family. They also have a tendency to be aloof with strangers. One of the behaviors the Peekapoo inherited from the Pekingese is its desire to protect its family. These little dogs have a habit of performing guarding behaviors. Although their small size really prevents them from doing any damage, these guys will certainly use their bark to alert you to anything going on. Unfortunately, they will also use their bark to tell you if anything normal is going on too! This can be a loud little dog. The character trait of being slightly distrusting and aloof towards strangers is present in both the Poodle and the Pekingese. Early socialization is very important with this breed to reduce these behaviors. Introduce them to everyone the moment you bring them home and they will start to relax. They should be kept on a lead when out and about. The Peekapoo is not a good dog for people with young children. They are small and may be inadvertently hurt by young children — this can make them impatient and snappy with inexperienced hands. These dogs really thrive in adult only homes. How To Train The Pekingese is somewhat notorious when it comes to training. You will have to be consistent and use positive training methods such as praise and treats when your pup does the right behavior. One of the main issues with Peekapoos is house training. A few things that will help you are establishing a routine, not punishing them and keeping any soiled areas clean. This pup is great with its family but may be aloof with strangers. Allowing them to socialize with all different types of people from a young age is going to help reduce this. They are also not the best with other dogs. Puppy parties and playdates are a great way of socializing with other dogs in a safe, monitored environment. The more your pup is socialized in a positive way, the more comfortable with other dogs it will become. Separation anxiety is an issue in the Peekapoo. One of the reasons for this is that they like their time to be occupied purely by you. Once you leave, they become anxious and bored. Providing them with something to stimulate their mind while you are out will help relax them. Snuffle mats and kongs are a great choice as you can fill them with tasty treats! Care Guide The Peekapoo is best suited to an adult only home where they are going to be the center of attention. They like to have company almost all the time. Taking them out for an hour a day is perfect for them and for you! Dogs are a great way of motivating yourself to go outside and exercise every day. They will need regular trips to the groomers which is definitely an expense you should consider. These little dogs will give you everything if you love and care for them to the high standard they deserve. Exercise Requirements These little dogs only need around an hour of exercise a day, preferably split into two sessions, one in the morning and one in the afternoon. This keep them fairly calm throughout the rest of the day. If you want to take your Peekapoo out on jogs and hikes, they will be happy to accompany you. There are several reasons why you should keep your Peekapoo on a leash when you walk. Finally, they have a mind of their own and often struggle with recall. Grooming and Shedding One of the wonderful things about these little dogs is that their grooming requirements are actually fairly minimal. They should be taken to a groomer every 8 to 12 weeks to be trimmed. That said, you should be brushing their teeth at home yourself most days to avoid dental issues. Feeding and Diet Small dogs like the Peekapoo should be eating around 40 calories per lb of their body weight. So a 10lb Peekapoo will need around calories. These calories should be correctly balanced between proteins, fats and carbohydrates. The best and easiest way to do this is by using a complete dog food. They should be fed 3 to 4 meals a day up until 6 months when they should be moved onto 2 meals a day. So make sure to monitor everything they eat. Known Health Problems The Peekapoo is prone to a range of conditions that come from the Pekingese parent, the Poodle parent and some just because of their size. Researchers believe that, this breed is an accidental cross between the Poodle and the Pekingese dog. It has also been suggested that, the Pekingese and the poodle breeders wanted to try their luck, trying to cross between the two breeds. No sooner did the peekapoo originate in the United States in the s than it became popular as a pet for its adorable disposition and wondrous appearance. Temperament and Behavior Peekapoos are somewhat timid. They are not too comfortable with unknown people. Like their Pekingese parent, they would try to protect their family members and would even growl or warn-bark at strangers, strange noises and other dogs. Thus they make a good watchdog as well. These dogs are also prone to biting other animals or people if they come near to their food. However, they are known for their loyalty and love for their owners. They would take an active part in its family as its member as also love to cuddle on the lap of their loved ones. They are intelligent and love to learn new things and play with the family kids. The enjoy entertaining their owners with playful antics. Being a companion dog, the peekapoo would always try to be with you, and if kept regularly separated for longer periods of time, they might suffer from separation anxiety, ultimately leading to excessive barking and chewing habits. Care Exercise Peekapoos are energetic dogs and are in motion all day. So, a very little exercise is enough for this little dog. Take them out once a day for a moderate walking session. Allow them to play with their toys or with children in an enclosed area, supposedly safe for them. However, they are apartment dogs and love to live inside their homes most of the time. Do not take them out in too much hot or cold weather conditions. Grooming Peekapoos do not have an undercoat, and they shed too less. Brush their hair regularly to keep the fur in good shape and retain the gloss. This also keeps away matting and dead hairs. Bathe them once a week to ensure cleanliness. Their hair grows very slowly, hence an occasional trimming is enough for them. Also, clean their eyes every day to avoid dark patches around its eyes from eye secretion. Trim their nails whenever they tend to be long. Health Problems This breed tends to inherit the diseases and problems from their parents. They are also prone to develop respiratory issues. Keep them in an air-conditioned room during the hot summer months. Common health issues include Progressive Retinal Atrophy, Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease, Patellar Luxation and hip dysplasia, cataracts, breathing difficulties during exercise, and congestive heart failure. Training Training the peekapoo is easy, but might demand patience, since the results come gradually. But training the peekapoo is fun especially because they are intelligent by nature. Pikapoos would rather respond well to firm but gentle techniques. Treats and rewards should also make your training efforts a success. Crate training is important. But keeping it in its crate all day is also not advisable, since they need their space to hop and play around. But if you rely upon dry foods like dog kibbles, the quantity depends on the brand of food you are serving to your pikapoo. The size of a pikapoo is unpredictable, depending mostly on the size of its poodle parent whether its parent was miniature, toy, or teacup. The Peekapoo carries the royal blood in the sense that, their parent breed Pekingese were only owned by the emperor. If the subjects were found to have one, the penalty of possessing it was death. Some breeders allow crossing a peekapoo with a Poodle or a Pekingese, which is called a backcross. The peekapoo is an exceptionally hypoallergenic breed, preferred by most allergy sufferers. This designer dog has mostly remained as a first-generation cross. Weather extremities like too much heat, cold, or humidity might affect the general mood and health of the sensitive Peekapoo. Lifespan Sociability The Peekapoo is a lapdog for sure, but they require a great deal of exercise for such a small canine. They can vary greatly in size, depending on the Poodle side of their parentage, but still stay relatively small. They are not guard dogs, but they make great watchdogs and will bark at anything that seems to be out of the ordinary. Their small size also fools owners into thinking that they are happy to be on your lap all day, but these dogs have a ton of energy and need a fair amount of exercise every day. They are wary of strangers, and it may take them a while to warm up to new faces. So, although small in size, these dogs make up for it in character and energy, and this needs to be taken into careful consideration before bringing a puppy home. Both the Poodle and Pekingese are ancient breeds The Poodle is an ancient breed, and variations have been around for thousands of years. While their true heritage is largely unknown, some theories hold that a Poodle-like dog originated in Asia and eventually made it to Germany with travelers. Poodles are the official dog of France and have long been associated with the French, but in fact, the modern version of the breed originated from and was developed in Germany. The Pekingese is also an ancient breed, commonly being kept as companions for Chinese Imperials. Some DNA evidence confirms that the Pekingese is one of the oldest known dog breeds, believed to have existed in China for as long as 2, years. The fancy hairdo of Poodles serves a vital purpose The pampered appearance of Poodles is not only for style but also has a useful purpose in hunting. The hair is thick and coarse, and keeping it short prevents them from getting tangled in grass and bush and prevents knotting and matting. Their coats will keep growing if not trimmed and eventually curl into long locks if left unchecked. They are highly intelligent The Poodle is one of the most intelligent dogs on the planet , second only to Border Collies. While they may not learn commands as quickly as Poodles, it is more due to the fact that they just do not have the same desire to follow orders. They are loyal and protective animals and will often pick fights that they cannot possibly win in order to protect their owners. With a bark far bigger than their bite, these dogs can get themselves into dangerous situations, which is funny at times but can cause real problems. Early socialization is essential. These dogs love to be a part of every activity, leading them to become shadow dogs that follow your every movement. While they will still appreciate loads of outdoor activity — especially if you are there — they love to cuddle close to their owners more than anything. Are Peekapoos Good for Families? They become highly attached to their owners, though, and are not a great choice if you are away from home frequently. The only problem that you may run into is the nature of these dogs to become highly attached to their owners, and they may snap or show aggression toward other pets if they feel that connection is being threatened in any way. This is why we recommend a diet that is high in concentrated nutrition and low in empty filler calories like wheat and soy. This will help you form a bond with your pup, as well as help reduce or prevent any bad behavior like barking or digging. Peekapoos are playful dogs, and interactive games of fetch or frisbee are great mental and physical stimulation for them. Depending on the parent breeds, these dogs may have a higher-than-average energy level, so it may take time to tire them out. That is why we recommend taking a minimum of an hour a day to keep these pooches sufficiently exercised. That being said, they will still need a consistent and regular training program that begins from the day you bring them home. Without good training, these dogs are prone to excessive barking and will run off chasing other animals. For these reasons, basic obedience training is a must, and although formal training classes are great, informal home training is still important. This can easily become a part of your daily routine with your pooch, and getting them to sit for food or before activities is an ideal method that will get them obeying commands fast. Try and keep training sessions as entertaining and as short as possible — a maximum of 20 minutes. This will get your dog excited for the training and help them learn faster, and short sessions will prevent them from getting bored and distracted. Some will inherit the tight curls of their Poodle parent, and others may have the predominantly wavy or straight hair of the Pekingese. Brushing their hair at least every other day, no matter the coat they inherit, is essential. A tooth brushing at least a few times a week is necessary to prevent any tartar buildup or dental issues, and dogs with small mouths can often be affected with supernumerary teeth, in which food can quickly become trapped and cause tooth decay. Other than that, they may need the occasional nail trimming to prevent pain or infection. Collapsing trachea is common in small dog breeds, as well as supernumerary teeth. Small dogs can develop this condition because they have small mouths in which teeth can become overcrowded and cause food to get trapped. Regular brushing and feeding them dry food will help this drastically. Pekingese have small, short snouts and can suffer from brachycephalic airway syndrome. This can cause difficulty breathing, and the condition can commonly be passed down to Peekapoos. Patella luxation and hip and elbow dysplasia are common in both Poodles and Pekingese and may be inherited by your Peekapoo. Progressive retinal atrophy is also commonly associated with these pooches, as they have bulging eyes that are also fairly easily injured. Obesity is one of the most common health issues in these dogs, so you need to keep a strict eye on their nutrition. They are prone to eating and will often eat way beyond they are full, and they should definitely not be freely fed. Minor Conditions. 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. Like most designer dogs, the Peekapoo was developed to be a companion for people with allergies. He makes an excellent watchdog and will bark without fail whenever he sees something or someone he thinks is suspicious. If you live somewhere with noise restrictions, this may not be the breed for you. He may be small, but he has a mighty loud bark. The Peekapoo is an outdoorsman. He fares best in a home with a fenced yard, although he can do well in an apartment. The Peekapoo should definitely live in a home with air-conditioning, because he can succumb quickly to heat exhaustion thanks to that flat-faced pedigree. Proper exercise is a must; expect at least one walk and a good play session in the yard each day. A Peekapoo needs to be socialized to a variety of people and stimuli to be the well-rounded and affectionate dog that he can easily be. The Peekapoo generally gets along with everyone in his family. He does well with older, more considerate children, and he must be socialized and raised with children to be accepting of them. He behaves well with other dogs and pets, but again, he needs to be raised with them and properly socialized. He can suffer from separation anxiety and become destructive when on his own. Multigenerational breedings Peekapoo to Peekapoo are rare. The Peekapoo is an active and energetic dog. He requires daily exercise and does well with a good walk or romp in the yard. Peekapoos can suffer from heat exhaustion quickly. They do best in a home that has air-conditioning. Barking is a favorite pastime for a Peekapoo. They make excellent watchdogs and will alert bark at people or things they think are suspicious. A clipped Peekapoo only requires about two brushings per week, while a Peekapoo with a full, natural coat will require daily brushing. Loving and gentle, the Peekapoo can make an excellent companion to older, more considerate children. Peekapoos can be easy to train with positive reinforcement. Peekapoos may suffer from separation anxiety when left alone for long periods at a time. To get a healthy dog, never buy a puppy from an irresponsible breeder, puppy mill, or pet store. Peekapoo History The Peekapoo is one of the oldest of the hybrid, or designer, breeds. He was developed in the s with the cross of a Pekingese with a Miniature or Toy Poodle. The goal was to produce a non- to low-shedding dog suitable for people with allergies. The Peekapoo gained popularity by the early s, around the same time as the Cockapoo. Despite the popularity of the Peekapoo, there is no breed club. The hybrid has remained largely a first-generation cross; the parents are usually Pekingese and Poodles. There is no indication that multigenerational breeding will occur — but never say never. Due to his small, lap-friendly size and sweetly affectionate temperament, the Peekapoo has maintained a strong following. Therefore, the Peekapoo is seen in a range of sizes. He averages up to 11 inches in height, and he can range in weight from 4 to 20 pounds. Peekapoo Personality The Peekapoo is a loving and loyal dog who is dedicated to his family. An ideal lapdog, he delights in being part of every family activity. He is gentle and rarely combative. He is an intelligent dog who is happiest with his owner, especially out in the great outdoors. Temperament is affected by a number of factors, including heredity, training , and socialization. Puppies with nice temperaments are curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. Meeting siblings or other relatives of the parents is also helpful for evaluating what a puppy will be like when he grows up. If not properly socialized, he can be slightly aggressive or timid. Enrolling your young Peekapoo in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start down the road of socialization. Inviting visitors over regularly, taking him to busy parks and stores that allow dogs, and going on leisurely strolls to meet the neighbors will also help him polish his social skills. However, there is a general misconception that hybrid vigor automatically applies to mixed breeds. Regardless of generation, all parents should have the applicable health clearances. 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. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA : is a family of eye diseases that involves the gradual deterioration of the retina. Early in the disease, affected dogs become night-blind; they lose sight during the day as the disease progresses. Many affected dogs adapt well to their limited or lost vision, as long as their surroundings remain the same. Legg-Calve-Perthes Disease: This affliction involves the hip joint, usually in small dogs. If your Peekapoo 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. The first symptoms, limping and atrophy of the leg muscle, usually occur when puppies are four to six months old. Surgery can correct the condition, usually resulting in a pain-free puppy. Patellar Luxation: Also known as slipped stifles, this is another common problem in small dogs. 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, although many dogs lead relatively normal lives with this condition. X-ray screening is the most certain way to diagnose the problem. Either way, arthritis can develop as the dog ages. Peekapoo Care The Peekapoo is an active little dog who requires daily exercise to stay healthy and happy. A Peekapoo enjoys being outside and likes to play in the yard and go for walks all walks are considered nice walks. The Peekapoo can be trained easily with the use of positive reinforcement. Harsh corrections should not be used with a Peekapoo, since they can literally hurt him. A Peekapoo can adapt to any type of dwelling, including apartments, but they do much better with a small fenced yard to access, since they enjoy being outdoors. They should not be left unattended outside, however, since they can become prey for larger dogs and animals in the neighborhood. A Peekapoo should also live in a home with air-conditioning, since they can be susceptible to heat exhaustion. A Peekapoo should never be exercised or left outside on unusually hot days. Peekapoos are noisy and will alert bark whenever they see something or someone suspicious. A crate is also a place where he can retreat for a nap. Crate training at a young age will help your Peekapoo accept confinement if he ever needs to be boarded or hospitalized. Never stick your Peekapoo in a crate all day long, however. 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. Keep your Peekapoo 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 Peekapoo, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. It should be wavy and of medium to long length. There is no undercoat. The desired coat is low-shedding, but a Peekapoo can range from low to average shedding, depending on the roll of the genetic dice. Coat colors run a tremendous range, from silver, gray, white, sable, red, cream, apricot, chocolate, to buff and black. The Peekapoo can also have a variety of markings, including phantom, which is black with tan markings. He requires some care in keeping the Pekingese-based wrinkles and folds around the eyes, muzzle, ears, and nose free of dirt and debris. The Peekapoo can be clipped for easier care, but he still requires regular brushing and bathing. If his coat is kept long, then it will need to be brushed daily to avoid tangles and mats. Occasionally hair can cause some irritation to the eyes. If this happens, pluck the offending hair regularly. Check the ears once a week for dirt, redness, or a bad odor that can indicate an infection. Also wipe them out weekly with a cotton ball dampened with gentle, pH-balanced ear cleaner to prevent problems. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Short, neatly trimmed nails keep your legs from getting scratched when your short Peekapoo enthusiastically jumps up to greet you. Handle his paws frequently — dogs are touchy about their feet — and look inside his mouth and ears. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin or feet and in the nose, mouth, and eyes. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Peekapoo Children And Other Pets A Peekapoo can make a loving companion to any child if properly introduced to children from a young age. The Peekapoo is naturally suspicious of new people, and a loud, rambunctious kid may be too much for an older Peekapoo to handle. 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. The Peekapoo also does well with other dogs and pets, but again, early socialization is the key to success. Otherwise the Peekapoo can be combative and aggressive toward new dogs and pets. Peekapoo Rescue Groups Peekapoos are often purchased without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Peekapoos in need of adoption and or fostering. There are a number of rescues that we have not listed. The first Pekingese -poodle mixes were bred in the s to meet the demand for small dogs with low-shedding, "hypoallergenic" coats , and the breed remains popular today. Similar to their parent breeds, adult Peekapoos are small in stature, standing less than 11 inches tall and weighing between 4—20 pounds. A Pekingese crossed with a toy poodle is smallest and called a teacup Peekapoo. But what these dogs lack in size, they make up for in personality. The old adage, "their bark is bigger than their bite," holds true with the breed; they're very vocal and believe it's their job to act as their owners' personal alarm system, Hart says. At home, the Peekapoo is loving and loyal. He's a low-energy breed that embodies the definition of lapdog and, thanks to his poodle roots, thrives on constant companionship. He'll make the perfect furry friend for senior citizens. Appearance Because the Peekapoo is not a purebred dog, there is no formal breed standard guiding how the pups should look. In fact, their appearances can be quite varied and include a combination of traits taken from their toy or miniature poodle and Pekingese parents. The dogs can reach up to 11 inches tall and weigh between 4—20 pounds, depending on whether their poodle parent was a toy or miniature breed. These petite pups have coats in colors ranging from silver, grey, chocolate and black to white, cream, apricot, and buff. The breed, which was developed for owners with allergies, tends to have a low-shedding coat that's considered hypoallergenic. And while there's no such thing as a truly hypoallergenic pet , the Peekapoo might be a good option for someone who gets itchy eyes or a stuffy nose around dogs. But low-allergen doesn't equal low-maintenance; some Peekapoos have longer coats that require daily brushing , while others have short or clipped coats that can be brushed weekly. Temperament Both poodles and Pekingese are intelligent , affectionate, and loyal; traits that are reinforced in Peekapoos. These are dogs that love spending time with their people and will happily tag along for rather short walks or errands, but are happiest curled up in your lap. But the Peekapoo's "love me, love me" personality may not extend to strangers. Hart notes this hybrid can be aloof with strangers—in fact, the breed make excellent watch dogs, as they tend to bark when strangers approach. Though most will get along well with other laid-back pets that match their energy levels or lack of , Hart notes the breed might not be the best choice for homes with small children. Due to their small size and tendency to get underfoot, their little bodies could be accidentally injured by kiddos. Always supervise kids when they play with any pup, and teach them how to interact with animals. Consistent positive reinforcement training is important to help Peekapoos learn basic commands. Because the parent breeds are both hailed for their intelligence, training will also help provide your Peekapoo much-needed mental stimulation. And he'll love getting treats as a reward! Living Needs The Peekapoo is a lapdog at heart. The breed has minimal exercise needs; a quick walk around the block is usually enough to tire out these petite pooches. Afterward, he'd prefer to be curled up on the couch with his owner. In fact, the Peekapoo's desire for companionship is one of his most charming—but challenging—traits. Like other small dogs, Peekapoos don't require a ton of space. Apartment living is fine , but they do have a tendency to bark, which could annoy the neighbors. While Peekapoos get along well with other animals, including cats and other dogs, these pups prefer to be the center of attention. Due to their small size, the breed is best suited to homes with older children. If in doubt, Hart suggests asking Peekapoo rescue groups about the dog's behavior in his foster home. If you're bringing home a puppy from a Peekapoo breeder, early socialization will help him learn to live with other animals—and not be so suspicious and bark-y around new people. Care A Peekapoo's low-shedding, hypoallergenic coat requires regular brushing. Dogs with longer coats may need to be brushed every day, while weekly brushing is sufficient for dogs with short coats—or for Peekapoos with short, stylish haircuts. If you want to his coat clipped, plan to schedule an appointment with a professional groomer every six to eight weeks. Like other breeds, Peekapoos also need regular nail trims , and routine dental care will help keep their pearly whites healthy. When it comes to exercise, a Peekapoo is much more low-maintenance. A quick walk around the block might be enough to satisfy his exercise needs, but be sure to allow him time to sniff out their surroundings. Hart says it's a good idea to provide puzzle feeders , interactive toys , training games, and other opportunities for Peekapoos to keep their brains busy when the sun is shining a bit too hard for outside exercise. Both parent breeds share similar health issues that might be passed along to the Peekapoo, including: Brachycephalic Obstructive Airway Syndrome : BOAS is common in brachycephalic aka flat-faced dogs including the Pekingese. Their short muzzles and noses result in small or flattened breathing passages that make it harder for them to breathe, even when resting. Dogs with BOAS can't do much exercise and are at an increased risk of overheating, especially in hot weather. Your veterinarian may also recommend anti-inflammatory drugs, oxygen therapy, or surgery. Luxating patella : Small and toy dog breeds are at greater risk for a luxating patella. The condition causes the kneecap patella to luxate, or move out of its normal location. Though it often causes no pain and some dogs even learn how to rotate their leg so the kneecap moves back into place , a luxating patella can make it difficult for dogs to put weight on the affected leg. It also increases the risk of other injuries such as torn cruciate ligaments. Surgery may be recommended for severe or chronic cases. Eye issues: Brachycephalic breeds including the Pekingese have short noses, shallow eye sockets, and bulging eyes. Cute as their big googly eyes might be, this puts them at increased risk for eye injuries. Pekingese are also prone to dry eye, which leads to sore, itchy eyes due to lack of tear production. Peekapoos can be at increased risk for both issues. Eye drops can provide lubrication that eases the symptoms of dry eye, while the treatment for injuries will depend on the extent of the damage. Dental disease: Both parent breeds are prone to dental issues. Poodles can have more tartar buildup, tooth, and gum infections than other breeds, and Pekingese have crowded teeth as a result of their smooshed faces and small mouths. Regular dental exams , annual professional cleanings and, if needed, extractions, are essential preventive care. History It should come as no surprise that the poodle and the Pekingese make for a hybrid dog who is small and affectionate—an ideal lapdog for seniors and families with older kids. Nobles loved both breeds, treasuring their small statures, elegant appearances, and affectionate personalities. Because the Peekapoo isn't an official American Kennel Club-recognized breed, their history isn't well-documented. But the Peekapoo is believed to date back to the s, making him one of the oldest hybrid dog breeds. He was developed for owners who wanted a miniature, low-shedding, hypoallergenic dog breed. Coco isn't the only social Peekapoo. Was this page helpful? Also known as a Pekepoo, Peke-A-Poo, Pekingese Poodle Mix, Peke a Poo and Pekapoo, this little dog is one of the oldest mixed breeds and is known for being friendly and affectionate and easy to train. Read on below to find out more about this loving pup and whether you think they might be the right companion for you. History Of The Peekapoo The Peekapoo is an adorable companion dog that is very popular with allergy sufferers that need a dog with a hypoallergenic coat. The Peekapoo inherits this coat from their Miniature or Toy Poodle parent. One of the common misconceptions with the Peekapoo is that they can be bred using a Standard Poodle, but this is not true. A Miniature or Toy Poodle is crossed with a Pekingese to create the Peekapoo; because of the parent breeds similar sizes, it does not matter which is the sire or the dam. However, like many designer breeds, it is registered with the American Canine Hybrid Club. Breed Origin To understand where this breed comes from, it is important to look at the parent breeds of the Peekapoo. The Pekingese is the national dog of China and are known for being loyal lapdogs! DNA evidence has confirmed that this breed of dog is one of the oldest and the Peke is believed to have existed in China for as long as 2, years. Named after the capital city of Peking now Beijing , they were companions to nobles, princes and members of the imperial family. These dogs originally came to the Western part of the world in around and by were gaining popularity in other countries. The first Pekingese was registered by the AKC in and today ranks at 49th. The Poodle originated from the French and German border in the 15th and 16th century and was associated with the upper class. Because they are excellent water dogs, they were used to hunt water-fowl. Later on, because of their adorable look, these pups became a very popular dog. The Toy Poodle was bred from the Standard Poodle by choosing the smallest pup from each litter and breeding with them. They were first seen in America in the 20th century. The Peekapoo has actually been around longer than a lot of Poodle crossbreeds, originating in and gaining popularity in .They were bred to be a low shedding companion dog for those with allergies due to their hypoallergenic coat. Characteristics Of The Peekapoo Due to the fact that the Peekapoo is a crossbreed and does not have a breed standard, we cannot be sure which traits they are going to inherit from each parent. However, based on past litters, we can make assumptions about these pups. Peekapoo puppies are normally born in litters of 2 to 6 puppies. As we mentioned above, it does not matter whether the Pekingese or the Poodle is the mother breed. Appearance The Peekapoo is a small dog that can grow up to 11 inches in height. They can weigh anywhere between 8 and 20 lbs, but any dog less than 8 lbs at an adult weight is considered a Miniature Peekapoo. Coat Peekapoos have a medium to long in length and is a wavy single coat. As we have mentioned above, their coat is hypoallergenic and perfect for those with allergies. Their coat is very soft, too — perfect to cuddle up next to! The longer the coat is, the more hassle it is to take care of the more bushing is required. However, we will go into more detail about grooming your Peekapoo later on. Color Your Peekapoo can come in a range of different colors. Remember, there is no breed standard so anything is possible! These colors can include silver, grey, white, red, cream, apricot, chocolate and black. However, while their coat can be solid in color, they can also have a range of different markings across the body. Temperament The Peekapoo is a crossbreed and so defining their temperament can be difficult. They will inherit this from their parent breeds, so we can take a look to see the personality of the Pekingese and Poodle. The Pekingese is a true lapdog. However, they are very loyal and protective over their owners, meaning they can be wary of strangers and believe it is their job to guard the home. A Pekingese will happily spend time on their owners lap, but does not like children. Therefore, they are always better off in an adult home. The Poodle, in contrast to the Pekingese, is not independent and loves to be around people. Because of their high intelligence they do not like to be left alone and can suffer from separation anxiety. This can result in excessive barking and destruction. Poodles are very active dogs and want to spend their time outside playing. The Peekapoo dog takes traits from both parents. Like the Poodle, they will love to be around their owners and are gentle and affectionate. However, they also often inherit the guarding behavior from the Pekingese and will be alert and watchful, often barking if they feel something is out of place. Again, like the Poodle, they will suffer from separation anxiety if away from you for too long and are known for being extremely loyal. Lifespan The Peekapoo has a long life expectancy and, on average, can live anywhere between 13 to 15 years. Known Health Issues Unfortunately, as with any dog, the Peekapoo dog is prone to some health problems. These are issues that are passed down from their parent breeds. Luckily, because the Pekingese and the Poodle have been around for so long, it has given us enough time to understand these illnesses. The most common health concerns found in the Peekapoo are set out below: Brachycephalic airway syndrome — this is a condition that is normally seen in dogs who have a short and flattened head and face. It can lead to breathing issues and loss of breath if they are overexerted. Collapsing trachea — this is a progressive, irreversible disease of the trachea. Dogs with this may cough and have difficulty breathing and exercising. It can be treated with life long medication. Teeth problems — these issues are passed down from the Poodle and normally relate to overcrowding. Keratoconjunctivitis sicca — this is when there is an inability to produce tear film. Dogs with this issue may have dry eyes that are red and irritated and may blink a lot. It can usually be treated with medication. Patellar luxation — this is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. Progressive retinal atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. It is a blood disorder that affects the clotting process. It cannot be cured but it can be treated with small surgery. Regular vet checkups and keeping an eye on your dog will ensure you can catch any of these issues before they become untreatable. Daily Life Now we have learnt all about the temperament and character traits of the Peekapoo, it is time to take a look at what living with one of these pups every day is like. Read on below to find out about their food and diet requirements, exercise needs and grooming needs. Food And Diet The Peekapoo requires around 40 calories of food per pound of body weight when they reach adulthood. As a puppy, you should be feeding them based on their predicted adult weight — this can be difficult to determine, so you should always meet with the parent breeds so you can get an idea of how big your puppy might turn out. Try to feed your Peekapoo a food formulated for small dogs. You can check the back of the food packet and that will give you an exact measurement for the amount of a specific food you should be feeding them based on their weight. The food should be high-quality and nutritious. Puppy feeds can be split into 4 meals a day, until around 6 months old. You can then reduce this to two meals a day, which is usually breakfast and dinner. Peekapoos tend to be loving, affectionate, and loyal little dogs that love nothing more than spending time with their favorite humans. Although they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they can be registered with other notable canine organizations. Peekapoos are a combination of two classic companion breeds. Their favorite thing is to be around their family, so they will also likely follow you from room to room to stay nearby. Although they are small dogs, they can get protective over their favorite humans. This can make them suspicious of strangers and can become a cause of aggression if they are not properly socialized and trained. A well-socialized, well-trained Peekapoo tends to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets and will warm up to strangers once introduced. A Peekapoo is a highly adaptable dog. They do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their small size, they may need to bundle up with some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks when temperatures drop. Good breeding practices make a big difference. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking about the health of both of the parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Peekapoos are intelligent dogs that are eager to please and thrive on attention and praise. Although they may try to push boundaries sometimes and use their cute face to get what they want, they still tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. As long as training is kept consistent with clear expectations and plenty of praise and reward, Peekapoos tend to respond well and pick up on things quickly. If they take more after their Pekingese parent, they will shed moderately year-round. Either way, their coat needs some work. If their coat is longer, you will need to brush them every day in addition to regular visits to the dog groomer. The groomer may be able to help with some of this during appointments, but you will still need to do maintenance at home between appointments. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing plus cleanings at the vet as needed are a good start. A Peekapoo may have bursts of energy and will be energetic when they play, but they tend to be a more low-activity breed. Daily walks plus some playtime are usually enough for these little dogs. A fully-grown Peekapoo usually stands up to 11 inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Peekapoos generally live for years on average. Featured Peekapoo Article. Peekapoo dogs are increasingly popular as lapdogs and apartment pets. But they can be surprisingly active, energetic dogs. What is a Peekapoo? Peekapoo is a cute name for the Pekingese Poodle mix. When it comes to love, affection, and companionship, the Peekapoo has a lot to offer. These fluffy little teddy bear dogs have proven to be a great choice for those looking for a smaller companion dog. Some dog breed mixes have previously led to dogs being put in shelters when owners realize they are not the dog they expected. There is nothing inherently wrong with cross-breeding dogs to create a breed that brings joy and happiness to new owners, as long as they are not bred in excess. On the other hand, there are some worrying health problems that you should consider when deciding on a pure or mixed breed. Originating from the United states, these dogs were originally bred in an effort to create a low-shedding dog suitable for people with allergies. As with all cross breeds, the Peekapoo can vary in temperament, appearance, and health. Peekapoo Appearance The Peekapoo has droopy ears, a long tail and medium to long length fur. The coat is silky, wavy and occasionally tightly curled. Their noses range from long to flatten, and their eyes are normally fairly dark and wide. How big is a Peekapoo? Cute Peekapoo puppies are tiny, but how big does a Peekapoo get? But Peekapoo puppies are bred from the Miniature or Toy varieties. Because of their Miniature or Toy Poodle parentage, Peekapoo adults stand 11 inches tall on average. Like a lot of hybrid dogs, weight can vary between offspring. A Peekapoo should be under 20 lbs, with some weighing in at just 10 lbs. Peekapoo Colors and Coats The Peekapoo can exhibit some distinct variations in coat color. This is fairly typical for any designer dog breed out there. For example, your Peekapoo may be a fawn color, white with brown or brindle patches, white with black patches, silver, gray, chocolate brown, or any combination of the above! So, if you are looking for a specific color, such as a black or a white Peekapoo, you could have a longer wait. This is because they do not have an undercoat like some breeds. Thus, they do not usually shed a lot. But, your Peekapoo could have a coat more like their Poodle parent than the Pekingese parent. In the hotter months of summer, your Peekapoo may be much more comfortable if their hair is cut at least once a month. Is the Peekapoo Hypoallergenic? This mixed breed was originally bred for owners with allergies. But is there really such a thing as a hypoallergenic dog? Because the Peekapoo does not shed excessively, many people with allergies can tolerate a Peekapoo better than a lot of other dog breeds. For this reason, they are often called hypoallergenic dogs. However, this is not technically correct. Poodles are a hypoallergenic dog breed, but Pekingese are not. The Peekapoo is a cross between the Poodle and the Pekingese, and there is no way to tell which parent dog the Peekapoo will take after. Peekapoo Temperament These fabulous little dogs can have an outgoing and active personality. While they may be perfectly content to cuddle up on your lap one moment, they would love to go on a walk with you in an instant! Poodles are loyal and loving dogs, with lots of intelligence and energy. They also tend to be fairly laid back around people, adoring of their families but also calm with strangers. The Pekingese is a lapdog, with the heart of watch dog. They will cuddle up on your lap in the evening, but also be sure to let you know if anyone approaches the house. Since they are a hybrid, they may exhibit more Pekingese traits than Poodle traits or vice versa. However, both the Poodle and the Pekingese are friendly and outgoing dogs, the difference between one Peekapoo and another may not be as noticeable as with some other hybrids. Unfortunately, the health of the Pekingese parent may be passed on to the puppy, which could make for an energetic dog who is unable to burn off their energy properly. Are Peekapoos Good With Kids? While most will not lash out, training is very important — specifically, early socialization — to ensure they do not become overly protective. Training and Exercising your Peekapoo Peekapoos have the potential to be high energy dogs at times. They are great dogs for active families who like getting out and about. This is also a common trait among their Peekapoo puppies. When puppies, they can be aggressive little chewers. Peekapoo puppies need chew toys such as teething rings to help when they start to teeth. Other toys for play can help keep them entertained. It is key to socialize your Peekapoo as young as possible. Socializing early and getting them used to children will prevent any major barking and nipping issues. The Peekapoo is a very smart little dog and tends to learn new things quickly. Using positive reinforcement techniques, such as a little treat when your puppy does what is asked of them, will help them learn even faster. This is because the Pekingese parent is a brachycephalic dog breed. BOAS is a horrendous condition for a dog to live with, and makes it hard for them to breathe even when at rest. Especially on very hot days, a Peekapoo can be at risk of overheating, particularly if they are being very active or are spending a lot of time in an area with little or no shade. If you plan on taking your Peekapoo on vacation to the beach, it might be a good idea to get them a good clipping before you go out. Also, taking along some shade for them will help prevent any heat-related issues. Only you can decide how you feel about the morality of buying a breed or mixed breed dog that has breathing problems. So, if your heart is set on this cross, it is essential that you choose a breeder who has used a Pekingese parent with a fuller muzzle. This will give you the best chance of not bringing home a puppy that suffers. Peekapoo Life Expectancy Luckily, the Miniature Poodle is considered one of the longest living purebred dogs. They live on average 14 years. A Pekingese may live between 13 and 15 years. Cross-bred dogs tend to live on average a little longer than their purebred cousins, so you can assume that a Peekapoo will live up to 15 years. However, if you buy a puppy with a brachycephalic face, then this life could be filled with discomfort and potentially expensive medical bills. This is also an important factor to consider if you have other family members who will care for and love your Peekapoo. The Peekapoo, when socialized properly and from health-tested parents, could make a loving and fun family pet. However, buying a dog that has a brachycephalic-prone parent is risky. If your heart is set on a Peekapoo, make sure that you speak to the breeder thoroughly and meet the Pekingese parent. Importantly, make sure that they have a pronounced muzzle, and have never required surgery or medical intervention for respiratory problems. This risk is one reason that many wannabe Peekapoo owners opt for adoption instead of purchasing a new puppy. Rescuing a Peekapoo If you are looking for a dog of any age, then Peekapoo rescue could be a great option. However, a rescue Peekapoo may not be a mix of two purebred dogs, and could possibly be a little more guesswork. But, they can still make wonderful pets; rescuing a neglected or orphaned Peekapoo is a hugely rewarding experience, and will make for a very happy pup once you bring him home. Finding a Peekapoo Puppy Like any designer dog breed, you need to be careful about who you are getting them from. For starters, asking for the medical history of the parents or having access to pedigree records helps potential dog parents ensure they are making a good decision. With one brachycephalic parent, it is essential you get a certificate of health from a veterinarian. In addition, good breeders have only a few dogs, who live as family pets in the home. They should clearly know their owner, their own name, and have a strong bond with the family. Peekapoo Puppy Price If a price sounds too good to be true then you should be alert and cautious about your purchase. Raising a Peekapoo Puppy Raising a puppy is no easy task, not to mention potentially expensive. Especially if you buy a puppy that has one brachycephalic parent, health insurance is essential as the chances of them needing veterinary care are high. Although Peekapoos are a healthy and long-lived breed, purchasing one from the wrong kennel could mean problems down the road. You also need to add in the cost of getting your puppy their shots and other 1st year of life medical care. Some dog parents choose to get health insurance for their puppy that covers a large portion of these costs and provides emergency coverage as well. Peekapoo Products and Accessories No new pup experience is complete without the perfect accessories. Remember that this breed can easily overheat. Luckily, we have just the right accessories lined up for you: Cooling Pads for Dogs. A Chinese legend states that this breed was created by Buddha himself, who took a lion and shrunk it down to the size of a dog. They quickly grew in popularity in Europe and eventually arrived in America around the s. One interesting fact about the Pekingese is that it was one of only three dogs to survive the tragedy of the sinking of the Titanic. Poodle Breed History: While commonly associated with the French, the Poodle actually originated as a duck hunter in Germany over years ago. 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. On top of that, the gender of the puppy and the genetics of the parents play important factors as well. With that in mind, a Toy Peekapoo also known as a Teacup Peekapoo will typically weigh between pounds and have a height of inches. A Miniature Peekapoo will weigh in at around pounds and stand roughly inches tall. Peekapoos are rarely, if ever, bred from Standard Poodles. Their fur can range anywhere from wavy, like the Pekingese to curly like the Poodle and usually is of medium to long length. A minimum of brushing every other day is required for Peekapoos, with the ideal frequency being every day to prevent matting and tangles. Are Peekapoos Hypoallergenic? Do Peekapoos 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 Peekapoo .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. They can only thrive with a family who is willing to constantly be home with them on a regular basis. Although small in size, these pups make excellent watchdogs as they are alert and naturally suspicious of strangers. Due to this, they need to be socialized at an early age to prevent them from being defensive around people and other animals. Other small dogs are fine, but Peekapoos are often not fond of large dogs—and for a good reason. Peekapoos are very tiny and can be easily injured accidentally by larger dogs. This Pekingese Poodle Mix is not recommended for first-time dog owners as they are notoriously stubborn and difficult to train, though not as difficult as a purebred Pekingese. They need to be constantly rewarded and have positive reinforcement as they can become resentful if pushed too hard. Peekapoo Dog Breed Activity Requirements: Depending on how flat their facial structure is from their Pekingese genetics dictates how much exercise they must get. For those with flatter faces, a more sedentary lifestyle is acceptable with light walks and playtime sufficing. For those with facial structures more reminiscent of a Poodle, significantly more exercise is required, with walks of at least minutes a day. Pekingese Poodle Mix Pictures.
This aggression can stem from fear or insecurities. These behavioral issues can sometimes make our French bulldogs cease to be sources of amusement and begin to look like an issue that needs resolving. It is not unusual for your French bulldog to find a couple of things valuable. And it can be anything, from food to a spot on the couch, to your favorite hoodie. But it starts to become an issue when your Frenchie begins to growl, lunge, stiffen or bite whenever you go near these things of apparently high value. It can be annoying and frustrating, but you would have to do away with the frustration to handle the situation effectively. Here are some tips on how to discover and discourage this behavioral issue. What Is Resource Guarding? Resource guarding is when a dog tries to defend and protect any valuable resource like food or a toy. In mild cases, your Frenchie may only stiffen up at your approach, give you a look or simply turn his head, but in severe cases, your French bulldog might give you whale eyes, lift his lips, bare his teeth, growl or even bite. This can be very chilling and honestly quite alarming. Resource guarding can also happen if there are other pets around. Sometimes, your dog may resource guard you against the other pets. Resource guarding can also be called "possessive aggression," and the "cuteness" wanes very fast. Until a dog starts exhibiting signs of resource guarding, one may never know for sure if they are capable of it. Resource guarding is not confined to any particular breed of dog, neither is it limited to any sequence of occurrences. It all depends on the individual dog. Resource guarding poses such a problem because most dogs who behave in this manner do not differentiate between who is coming to take their valuables and those merely walking by. To them, the only thing that matters is what they think might be a threat. Many owners have often wondered why their dog seems to eat faster or guides his toy when they approach. It can be a wonder, but any dog resource guiding isn't mainly focused. They are just responding to the trigger and not the actual action. If you have kids, you especially cannot overlook or ignore this behavior. Resource guarding plays a considerable part in the statistics of reasons why dogs bite children. Your Frenchie may feel very sorry and remorseful, but the harm has already been done. It helps them to survive on the limited means they have to hunt for. For a domesticated dog, however, it is not a great instinct. Resource guarding often starts long before we begin to see these visible signs. To prevent accidents from occurring, you should keenly observe your dog for anything that may seem amiss. This would help you to nip it in the bud before it progresses to the apparent signs of growling, lunging, biting, and being generally terrifying. You should lookout for some of the more subtle signs if your dog freezes when you approach "my precious," if he moves the item farther, if he braces himself over the thing, if he generally seems to watch you intently. You should pick up on it and begin to discourage it. Sometimes, we need to reassure our Frenchies that there are more than enough resources available to them. We need to institute an understanding that removing an item will most often result in giving him something equal or better than what he had. Anytime your Frenchie gives up something willingly, or in obedience, it needs to be rewarded so that resource guarding does not become an issue. When our canines begin to resource guard, the first human instinct might be to punish the attitude out of them. This only results in more resource guarding. That is why it would be better to speak to a professional trainer and get their thoughts on the next step. But below are some helpful tips. How To Handle Resource Guarding? What Not To Do There are some knee-jerk reactions to resource guarding that just do not help. And while it is understandably frightening and embarrassing, the goal is to discourage such behavior, not make it worse. If your Frenchie realizes that his growls of discomfort at your approach will only result in some sort of punishment and the loss of his valuable item, the next time you approach, he is more likely to skip the growl and go straight to biting. It is pretty similar to our reactions as humans. If you keep reaching for my stuff and you ignore my warnings, you've got a smack coming your way, buddy. The point is, you shouldn't take away the vital signs your dog uses in communication with you. Your Frenchie can't explain to you that this is your last warning; growling is all they have, don't take it away. Some might not mind, but others mind the disturbances very much. Sometimes, you might want to form a habit of taking away your Frenchie's food or chews to show them that you are their lord and savior. This may work on some French bulldogs, but it generally breeds resource guarding. This is because constantly taking away their stuff will only annoy your dog and teach them that you are here to take away when they see you. This is not the impression to form in your Frenchie. There are other ways to be firm and put your feet down; you should habitually do it with their food and toys. This tip, however, will only work for mild cases of resource guarding. What To Do The best thing is to start training and socialization early to prevent resource guarding against developing. But if you rescued an adult dog from a shelter or inherited one from a family member, this point is moot. You can handle resource guarding in your Frenchie by desensitizing him to your presence. This usually takes time, involves a lot of steps, and requires a lot of patience. Suppose you cannot afford to take much time; you should speak to a dog behaviorist about your options. If your Frenchie suddenly develops resource guarding, you should visit the vet. A change in behavior or sudden aggressive behavior may be signs of an underlying health condition. You must handle the situation in the right way, don't ignore it. Face it heads on along with your vet and animal behaviorist. Reach Out To Us To get more information on caring for your canine buddy, reach out to us today. Sign up for our Frenchie Blog. Leave a comment. Friday 25th of August Great Article eric Saturday 15th of April my recent rescue of a 3 year old supposed puppymill frenchie momma. I will probably have more questions later. It's not easy to take on the responsibility of a dog with behavioral quirks, but with some effort, you can help her become a happy and well-adjusted pet. Here are a few tips to get you started: Socialize her as much as possible: She might not have been socialized as much as she could've — ideally this is done when they're puppies, but you can still get behavior improvements in adult Frenchies through socializing. My Frenchie used to be scared of new people and always would bark at them.Supervise playtime: It's important to keep a close eye on interactions between the Frenchie and your pug, especially when toys are involved. If the Frenchie shows signs of aggression, such as growling or snarling, immediately remove the toy and redirect her attention to a different activity. Introduce new experiences gradually: If the Frenchie is not used to being around children, it's important to introduce her to your grandchild in a slow and controlled manner. Start by having the child sit quietly while you hold the Frenchie on a leash. If the Frenchie shows interest but no signs of aggression, you can gradually increase the amount of time they spend together. Seek professional help if needed: If the Frenchie's behavioral issues persist despite your efforts, it may be helpful to consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist. They can assess the situation and provide tailored advice and training techniques to help the Frenchie overcome her fears and insecurities. Remember, with patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement, you can help your Frenchie momma become a happy and well-adjusted member of your family. Best of luck! My biggest problem is Squirrels. We live on 2 acres and yes lots of squirrels. I am trying to figure out how to keep him from just taking off full speed after them. I even walk him on a leash no pull harness it terrifies me when takes off while being on a leash, he is very strong. I started making him stop walking before he takes off, before we start walking again. Our yard is fenced however he started running to fence or tree trying to climb it. I want him to have free time to run and play. It seems like you're on the right track with the no-pull harness, but they definitely aren't an easy fix to a problem like this. My Frenchie is the same way, she likes to chase squirrels, bunnies, and other animals in our backyard. She's actually got a few bunnies — I don't think the squirrel toy we have helps lol. Here are a few suggestions for your situation: Use a deterrent: Consider using a deterrent such as a motion-activated sprinkler or ultrasonic device to discourage squirrels from entering your yard in the first place. Impulse control training: Practice impulse control training by making your dog stop and refocus his attention before taking off after squirrels. Positive reinforcement training: Train your dog with positive reinforcement, teaching him a "leave it" command to ignore squirrels and focus on you instead. Avoid punishment: Avoid punishing your dog for chasing squirrels as this can lead to fear or anxiety around them. Instead, focus on redirecting his attention to more appropriate behaviors. Physical and mental stimulation: Provide plenty of physical and mental stimulation through regular walks, interactive toys, and training sessions to help reduce your dog's desire to chase squirrels. Long leash: Consider using a long leash to give your dog more freedom to move around the yard while still having control over him. Safe and secure outdoor space: Create a safe and secure outdoor space for your dog, such as a fenced area or an enclosed playpen, where he can run and play without chasing squirrels. Professional guidance: Consult with a professional dog trainer or behaviorist for additional guidance and support. It's important to remember that training takes time and patience, so don't get discouraged if progress is slow. With consistent training and reinforcement, your dog can learn to control his impulse to chase squirrels and enjoy his free time in the yard without the need for a leash. Thanks for your comment. We'll try to help you to the best of our abilities. We have tried turning our backs to her but that was not a success. Do you have any helpful tips? We need help! Here are some tips to help with your Frenchie's biting and jumping: Teach "off" or "down" command: When your Frenchie starts to jump or bite, firmly and calmly say "off" or "down" and redirect her attention to a toy or treat. Use positive reinforcement: Reward your Frenchie with a treat or praise when she listens and stops biting or jumping. Consistency is key in reinforcing good behavior. Provide plenty of exercise: Make sure your Frenchie gets enough exercise and playtime to help reduce her energy and prevent her from getting too excited and jumping or biting. Practice good playtime: Encourage your Frenchie to play with toys and not with people's feet or ankles. Provide plenty of chew toys and interactive toys to keep her engaged and occupied. Consider professional training: If these tips don't seem to work, you may want to consider professional training for your Frenchie to help modify her behavior and learn more positive ways to interact with people. I hope these tips help, and good luck with your Frenchie! FrenchieWiki Community. YouTube 8 Easy Ways to Control a French Bulldog's Aggressive Behavior If you find that your dog is constantly growling, snapping, or trying to bite at other people or other dogs, it is evident that your dog has a pretty serious behavior problem. When dogs become aggressive, it is one of the biggest reasons why dog owners consult professionals for help. Most of the time, they consult a dog trainer or some type of dog behaviorist. Most of the time, it's not just for dogs that are larger in size either. Dogs that are more of a dangerous breed are more likely to express aggressive behavior as well. However, any dog of any size and breed is capable of being aggressive. It can be a pretty difficult experience to handle, especially if you have a dog that is usually very mellow and kind and suddenly starts to bark or growl or display very aggressive behavior. It might even bite someone that it has known for a while even though it wouldn't normally do such a thing. It can be pretty hard to know what to do when your dog starts to show this type of behavior, especially since there is a chance that things will get out of hand. Even though your dog's aggressive behavior cannot be easily swept away overnight, there are lots of things that you can do to control this type of behavior and help your dog behave better. If you are concerned about your french bulldog acting aggressive, here in this article we will go over the steps that you can take to control it. Here are some ways that you can fix it. Usually, when your french bulldog is acting aggressive it means that the dog is either preparing for an attack or trying to defend itself against a potential attack. Behavior like this usually involves the dog becoming very stiff and uptight. It will also start to growl, snarl, show its fangs and might even start to lunge or bite at the thing that is trying to attack it. When you see this behavior, the first thing you should try to do is figure out what it is that is causing your dog to be so alarmed in the first place. If someone is trying to approach your dog while it is eating on a bone or chewing on something it likes, it will probably growl at them. Most dogs will also act aggressively towards people that they don't know and children as well. Sometimes when the dog is acting aggressive, it is not always toward a person. Most dogs will actually become hostile towards other dogs and other types of animals. Some of them only act this way towards only certain types of animals. Perhaps it only acts hostile or aggressive towards cats, certain types of birds, or even certain objects like cars or broomsticks and sports balls. What you need to remember is that until you know the reason why the dog is being aggressive, you won't be able to come up with a proper plan to dispel the hostility. There are many types of aggression that a dog can have. Here are some examples: 1- Territorial Aggressive Behavior This means that the dog is being aggressive because it is trying to defend either you, the home or something it possesses from a possible threat or intruder. This is especially evident in mother dogs. They will be very protective of their pups and even act aggressively towards anyone or anything that approaches them. For example, food, dog toys, any type of bone or anything other things that it is interested in. But it will proceed to attack if it is being cornered. The dog will attack something that is causing the fear in order to defend itself, before attempting to get out of the situation. Dogs that do this will usually give off signs that they really want to avoid drama before they actually attack, such as looking the other way or moving backward. If your french bulldog has not been trained properly around other animals it is more likely to act aggressively towards other beings in social situations. When it is being restricted this way, it will show its frustration. Sometimes the dog might also become overly excited when it is going on a walk or doing something else and will bite. This can also happen if the dog isn't able to get to the animal that it wants to attack so it will become aggressive towards other animals that are nearby. According to this article , it is true that aggression is dangerous for both the dog and other beings in the environment. According to Science Direct , this is most common with intact animals, but this situation can be taken care of if the dogs get spayed and neutered. Usually, when it is chasing an animal it will become aggressive because it sees the animal as a threat. This is important to keep in mind because it can happen with children as well. Dogs that often show predatory aggression may end up biting the kid even if it is an innocent game. How to Stop Your French Bulldog's Aggression When your french bulldog is being aggressive, try to keep a record of everything that led up to it being hostile. This will be very helpful for you when you are trying to figure out the next step. You won't be able to come up with an effective resolution is you find out the reasoning or cause for this behavior. According to Science Direct , you can also try to get a behavioral test done in order to get more information about the dog's aggressive behavior. This behavior is just one piece of the whole problem. There are many ways that you can take control of this and help your french bulldog react in a more positive manner. However, remember that this is going to take time and dedication. You might also have to consult a professional after a while as well. To get more information on how you can take action against aggressive behavior, check out this video for more. Here you can learn steps to take control of the environment. Some of the health problems in dogs such as brain problems, hypothyroidism, and very painful wounds can result in this type of behavior. Try getting in touch with your veterinarian to see what could be the problem. You may be introduced to a variety of medications or treatments but this is what will improve the situation. This is a serious problem that your dog is facing and is most likely something that owners cannot fix on their own. A professional will get things straightened out and help you find out what is causing this problem and how you can prevent it in the future. You can probably get referrals from your veterinarian. This article suggests that behavior rehabilitation might also be something that you can go over with a professional in order to help the dog behave. Most of the time, you can try to carry out positive reinforcement in an effort to introduce the dog to a new way of behaving. For example, if your french bulldog is usually pretty uptight or hostile toward strangers, try distancing yourself from anybody that your dog is not familiar with. Make sure that are far enough away so that the dog isn't ready to start growling. Once you see that this is working, start giving the dog treats and slowly get closer and closer to the person until there is no hostility. Remember to continue to be positive to the dog and let it know that this the right thing to do. Once this happens, it will start to realize that unfamiliar people will help it get treats and it will slowly become less and less aggressive toward strangers. You can use this same method in any situation. However, this can usually backfire and make the situation much worse. If you become aggressive in an effort to eliminate the dog's aggression, it might feel like it needs to defend itself and might even attempt to attack you. Avoid hitting the dog, yelling at it, or doing anything else that triggers aggressive behavior. Doing this can also make your dog want to attack or bite other people that are around, even though they didn't do anything. For example. If your dog is growling at other people in the area it is trying to say that they are making it uncomfortable. At this point, you might need to look into getting your dog medication in order to help the problem. One of the biggest things you have to keep in mind is that if a dog is constantly under some sort of stress or fear or anxiety, it won't be able to properly learn anything that you are trying to teach it. If your french bulldog is always being hostile around children, you might have to make pretty big changes if you have kids. Or you might have to come up with a way to find a new home or a new area for the dog so that only adults are ever around it. This study confirmed that certain things in the dog's environment can contribute to its fear, aggression, stress, and many other things that can result in bad behavior. You should instead try to bring new things to the dog that it might like even more. New toys, new bones, and other things. If it is holding it, playing with it or guarding it, you can probably get the dog to drop that item and give it a new item in exchange. Once the dog has stopped guarding the items and gets the new one, you can continue using this method time and time again. Once this routine has been effective for a while, the dog might begin to realize that there is no need to be so aggressive in an effort to keep valuable items in its possession. This will prevent the dog from taking them while you're not paying attention. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Proper socialization and early exposure of French bulldog puppies to various people, animals, and experiences is essential to avoid unwanted behaviors like aggression in the future. However, when it comes to character and temperament, not every two Frenchies are the same. This brings us to an important point: Every French bulldog is an individual. Like any other dog breed, French bulldogs can be territorial and become aggressive to other dogs unless the dog owner nips the unwanted behaviors in the bud. He may enjoy rough play, which can provoke fights with other dogs. A fearful French bulldog can also bark and attack stranger dogs of the same sex, especially those larger than themselves, because he will feel threatened. He can lunge at other dogs when they come near his toys or if you give the other dog more attention. Why is my French bulldog so aggressive to other dogs? Dogs communicate with each other — and with us — in a thousand ways. They use body language and also sounds — barking, growling, squeaking. Sometimes a game between two dogs looks as if they are aggressive towards each other, but they are just playing. Sometimes it might feel like your French bulldog gets aggressive to exert dominance over other dogs or you. Your French Bulldog might get unusually aggressive to other dogs because it is simply afraid of them. Interestingly, dog owners can also induce fear of other dogs in their pets, for example, by always picking up your Frenchie whenever another pet approaches. Or jerking the collar when your French bulldog even looked in the direction of another dog. What did they teach this way? That other dogs are dangerous and best avoided. And if that other dog approaches, and there is no way to escape, your dog must scare away the intruder by attacking. Pain Sudden aggression can often be linked to pain or disease. Your French bulldog might be hurting, or he can feel irritated due to chronic illness. Aggression due to pain or illness often comes out of nowhere. If your friendly Frenchie has suddenly displayed a drastic change in temperament and turned aggressive to his fur friends, it warrants a visit to a vet. Defense Defensive aggression relates to guarding resources such as toys or food or protecting the property. French Bulldogs, in particular, are pretty alert pets, and they often assume the role of family guardian and a watchdog. An adult dog will react to a door opening or a noise in the stairwell. They can also throw themselves at the window when they see another dog passing by. Observe your Frenchie closely to identify what triggers a fear or self-defense response. Try to avoid exposing him to those triggers. The sooner we begin to teach a French Bulldog correct reaction, the greater the chance of getting rid of aggressiveness in the future. Step 1: Visit a vet Before jumping into dog obedience training , rule out any potential health problems your French bulldog might be dealing with. If your French bulldog feels uncomfortable when other dogs approach him on the street, lead him the other way. If your bulldog gets aggressive when he sees other dogs outside the window, decrease his vision by using curtains. Step 3: Control your emotions You should stay calm when teaching your Frenchie proper manners toward other dogs. Never strain his leash, or show signs of irritation or nervousness. Also, ensure you are always prepared to reward your French bulldog with a favorite treat. Every French bulldog is an individual. Like any other dog breed, French bulldogs can become aggressive to other dogs unless the dog owner nips the unwanted behaviors in the bud. Your goal is to focus all his attention on yourself. Your dog should look directly into your eyes. You can teach this behavior by using a treat held directly in front of your eyes or a clicker. Initially, work on the command at home and then in increasingly distracting places: in the yard, park, and street. In case of a positive response from your French bulldog, you can gradually reduce the distance between dogs. In this stage, your goal is to teach your Frenchie to completely ignore other dogs upon your command. The dogs we want to introduce your French bulldog to must be well-socialized and fully indifferent to barking, growling, and any form of aggression from other animals. This is absolutely crucial — otherwise, you can lose all the work done. The contact with another pup must occur in a neutral, calm area without any stimuli. Make your Frenchie feel as comfortable as possible, so you should not under any circumstances tighten the leash, get nervous, shout or show negative emotions. Keep the first few meetings short — just enough time so the dogs could sniff each other. If your French bulldog behaves well, reward and praise him generously to associate the contact with another pet with something positive. If the encounter gets tense, never pull on a leash and shout. Instead, diver your French bulldog with a treat, favorite toy, or a learned command. Training your French bulldog to unlearn aggressive behaviors toward other dogs requires a lot of patience and consistency. Nevertheless, it is definitely possible. Young French bulldogs can display an excessive amount of energy and hyperactivity. This can result in all sorts of unwanted behavior: chewing on furniture, jumping on strangers, or baring teeth at the sight of other dogs. The hyperactive stage in French bulldogs can last up to the age of 4 or even longer. However, with proper socialization with people and other animals, as well as with dedicated training and sufficient exercise, your French will eventually calm down. Summary French bulldogs are gentle and playful animals that usually get along well with other dogs. A French bulldog who has been poorly socialized or given leeway when displaying territorialism or other unwanted behaviors in the early years can become aggressive to other dogs. A sudden outburst of aggression towards dogs or other animals can also be connected to pain or chronic disease. Sometimes, the process may even take several months. Post Views: 3, Any dog may become threatening. Aggression can happen if a dog feels trapped in a place without any way of escape or if it feels that your intentions towards them are also one of aggression. Most dogs have aggressive behavior only if they feel they are in jeopardy, unable to flee, and have a feeling it needs to protect themselves. Listed below are some common fears your dog may experience. Talk to your vet about the appropriate course of action. Most likely, a rescue dog will require obedience training with a trainer specializing in training abused dogs. Little French Dog participates in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon. Illness and Injury can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Several medical conditions can cause your dog to become violent. WheAg that has not shown any signs of aggression unexpectedly starts to growl, snap or bite, which would be triggered by injury or sickness. Your unexpectedly aggressive dog might have an illness or injury that causes significant discomfort and anxiety. Pain is the most frequent cause of dog aggression. Several potential causes of pain involve inflammation, bone fracture, internal injuries, multiple tumors, and puncture wounds. Brain diseases, tumors, and neurological shifts in older dogs can contribute to the development of aggression. Possessiveness can cause your French Bulldog to have aggression. Possession aggression or property protection happens if a dog possesses food , toys, bed, yard, or other items of interest. Dogs that demonstrate possession hostility may snarl if someone comes to their food bowl or gets too close when playing with their favorite toy. Aggression can differ between dogs and objects; it feels like it needs protection. It all depends on the level of value the dog has placed on its items. Your dog may not mind, for example, if you pat it while it is enjoying its toy, but it could turn and bite at you if you do the same thing while they are eating. Establishing Dominance can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Dogs often show aggression to determine dominance. Usually, this applies more to other dogs, but this can happen to people also. Growing, snapping, or biting happens whenever they think their role is threatened. Regrettably, people sometimes confuse the source of dog aggressiveness as dominant behavior when there might be another cause. Be diligent not to confuse the aggression in your dog. Therefore, efforts at corrective action may potentially make the problem worse. Frustration can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Aggressive behavior caused by frustration is redirected to violence or barrier anger. This agitation is also seen in dogs who spend lots of time tied up, held back on a chain or rope. A dog chained in a backyard may spend a day tugging to get to another dog living across the road or in an adjacent yard. A dog restrained all day usually barks and becomes more fiercely as agitation grows. The dog could transfer their frustration and snap at you when you approach. Genetics can cause your French Bulldog to be aggressive. Reckless breeding is yet another major cause of aggression. This characteristic is partly inherited, and if you breed two dangerous dogs, their descendants will more than likely show aggressive behavior at a particular stage. Always buy from reputable breeders who can show you the parents and their temperament. French bulldogs physically harming other pets or animals are uncommon, which can be avoided if you bring both pets at a reasonably young age, such that they develop together. French Bulldogs are not known to bite people. Do Frenchies like kids, cats or other dogs? General French Bulldog Temperament These little dogs are loyal, loving, laid back and affectionate. They will enjoy curling up on their owners lap, and will be happiest when they are together with you. Frenchies are also intelligent and eager to please. They can take well to training, especially positive, reward-based methods. But, there are times when these little dogs can show less-lovable traits. Every dog has teeth, and therefore the ability and potential to bite if they feel threatened or backed into a corner. But these behaviors in a dog that is under a year old are almost always a result of playful intensions. The best thing to do to avoid these situations is to disengage, put them somewhere safe and take a time out. If your Frenchie is biting, growling, and snarling, but they are still a very young puppy, they may just be exuberantly playing. But over 18 months old and you may have an aggressive dog on your hands. The most common cause of biting or growling in this breed is anxiety. Fearful dogs may try to hide, or run away before displaying any aggressive behaviors. However, a few Frenchies can some guarding instincts. They feel uncomfortable with visitors entering their home, and might even try to protect or defend the property and their family. Barking, raising a lip, snarling and snapping at your guests is a sign that your dog is not happy with the intrusion. Resource guarding is another potential cause of aggression in dogs, and one that owners can accidentally make an awful lot worse. We used to be advised that removing the food bowl repeatedly would teach our dogs to share their dinner, but we know better now. The right thing to do is to add more food as they eat, not snatch away something they value and were enjoying. Making them nervous that they might not get to hold onto this prize. French Bulldog Socialization Well socialized dogs are less likely to react with fear-based aggression when they are older. Make it your mission from 8 to 16 weeks old to take your dog as many places as possible. All those you will want to bring them to when they are older. Train stations, bus stops, the school gates. They all help to teach your pup that everywhere you go is normal, and everything they experience is safe. Invite lots of different visitors over to your home, of a variety of ages. Make sure everyone that arrives is given a handful of kibble to offer your puppy. Make guests something to celebrate, not to fear. Kids and French Bulldogs French Bulldogs are popular family dogs partially because they often get on well with the kids that they live with. This can lead to aggressive reactions, such as growling or biting, if your pup gets hurt. And potentially a lifetime reluctance to spending time with younger people. Do Frenchies Like Other Pets? In my experience, this is a breed that does best alone most of the time. People tend to have the best luck in this respect if they introduce new canine family members slowly, and carefully. Frenchies are likely to be okay with cats that they grow up with. However, they may not do well with cats outside the home, even if they live with one. Overall, the French bulldog temperament is calm, cool, and collected, making Frenchies good family dogs that love to be around their people and are happiest when they give and receive affection. An aggressive dog often becomes so due to a lack of dog training or less-than-ideal breeding situations, like coming from a puppy mill. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? Are male French Bulldogs aggressive? What aggressive behavior might the Frenchie dog have? Is the French Bulldog temperament right for my family? Can dog training curb aggressive behavior in a Frenchie puppy or adult? Understanding the French Bulldog personality and signs of aggression can lead to a better understanding of this bulldog breed. As a rule, French bulldog aggression is rare, but it still can happen. French bulldogs are, by nature, a stubborn breed. Their stubbornness can sometimes lead to training difficulties, manifesting into disobedience and other undesired traits and behaviors. Frenchies can also become very anxious when separated from their loved ones, even if only for a few minutes. When a dog is overly anxious, they can become more susceptible to aggressive behaviors, even toward those they love. Here are some common signs of aggression to be on the lookout for with your Frenchie: 1. However, both female and male dogs of the breed can be very stubborn, making them seem unruly. Instead, Frenchies just like doing things their own way. As a French bulldog owner, you might find that your pup is challenging to train because of their stubborn nature. How does this relate to aggression? Aggressive tendencies often come from a lack of training or an inability to train properly. As a puppy, your Frenchie will learn basic obedience and socialization with a trainer. These tasks are crucial to raising a well-behaved and well-mannered dog that enjoys being around other animals and people. Without this fundamental training, your older dog may feel timid or aggravated around others, leading to potential aggression. The best thing you can do for your Frenchie and your family is to ensure that your dog gets proper training as a puppy. Also, work on socializing your pup frequently during the first three months of its life to help them get used to being around people and animals. Growling Growling at other pets or people in the family can be a sure sign that your dog might be on the verge of becoming aggressive. More often, it shows that your dog is scared, angry, or maybe even in pain. This is known as positive reinforcement, and it rewards your pup for positive behaviors rather than scolding it for negative behaviors. A vet visit can rule out any physical ailments that could be causing your dog pain. Professional training can help with people and animal aggression and other fears your dog might have. For example, if your Frenchie begins growling when a child interrupts it from a nap and continues to play with the dog, the next step might be to snap. Because the causes are usually the same, the steps needed to curb the behavior are similar. Giving your dog plenty of chew toys to play with and avoiding rough play may also teach better mouth habits. Common signs that your dog could lash out include: Arching its back Stiffening its tail or tucking it between its legs Baring teeth Hair sticking up on the back of the neck Tensing its body Laying ears back or standing them up tall Staring at a target If you notice any combination of these signs in your French bulldog, you should work on getting its attention and removing your pup from the situation as quickly and smoothly as possible. You need to stay calm in this situation, or your dog could pick up on your anxiety and attempt to attack its target. Remember to reward your Frenchie when its attention goes back to you and it complies with your guidance. Jealousy Does your Frenchie puppy or adult seem agitated when you give another pet or person attention first? Jealousy can run rampant in French Bulldogs, a breed that loves being the center of your attention. While this jealous streak might seem cute in puppies, it can easily give way to aggressive behaviors as your dog ages and thinks this behavior is acceptable. Instead, walk away and wait to reward your dog after it calms down. Strong Demand for Attention and Affection A significant part of the Frenchie temperament is the desire for attention. These small dogs crave affection, even though they like it at their own pace! In contrast, others might desire attention so much that they are willing to behave aggressively to get it. For example, your dog might learn to sit on a special mat or blanket when it wants to play rather than scratching at your feet for attention. Excessive Barking Barking excessively can be a sign of dog aggression, especially if a dog is territorial or has separation anxiety. These problems stem from fear, and a fearful dog can be on edge and unpredictable, so aggression is always something to watch for. Does your pup bark when it sees another dog near its yard? Does barking happen when you leave for the day and during crate training? Does your Frenchie tend to bark more to get attention? Once you figure out the cause, you can work on positive reinforcement training to reward your pup for participating in good behaviors, like sitting and waiting when someone walks by with a dog, instead of barking. Like other signs of aggression, barking can also come from pain. Desire for Dominance French bulldogs sometimes have a desire to be the dominant one in the pack. This usually happens with male dogs, but female dogs can have the personality trait too. You might not know whether your dog craves dominance until you have a new pet in the home or you send your Frenchie on a playdate with other dogs. Adequate training and socialization during puppyhood are critical in preventing a strong need for dominance that could develop into more aggressive behaviors down the road. Fear or Anxiety Anxiety, especially separation anxiety, is prevalent in the French bulldog. They might soil their crate, scratch or chew furniture, and display other negative behaviors when you leave home. However, the Royal Frenchel stands out in many ways from the French Bulldog, and their benefits may give you a different outlook on what dog breed is best for your family. Each pet owner that meets the breed falls in love with their larger-than-life personalities, even as a tiny puppy. Frenchies exhibit many of the same characteristics, but their stubbornness can often get in the way of becoming an obedient member of the family. In contrast, the Royal Frenchel can be an incredible service dog. Their intuition, combined with their trainable personalities, make them one of the best dog breeds for people looking to add a service or therapy dog to their family. The Royal Frenchel is rather laid back and happy-go-lucky. Another area where Royal Frenchels stand out is with their health. French bulldog health problems are many; allergies, ear infections, breathing problems, and spinal disorders are just a few issues that plague the breed. However, Royal Frenchels have a 10 times lower percentage of health problems as a breed than the French Bulldog. What does that mean for you? You may also spend less time and money on veterinary trips, medicines, and treatments for health problems. Improper socialization, training, and breeding can also cause Frenchie aggression. The Royal Frenchel comes from a reputable breeder devoted to giving each Royal Frenchel family the tools they need to transition their new dog into their family. That includes tips and resources for proper socialization with children, adults, and other animals to prevent fears and anxiety that cause aggressive behaviors. We want to help you succeed with your new fuzzy family member.
german shepherd puppy routine - We take great pride in our dogs, and they are a part of our family. Our Labrador Retrievers live inside our home, spending their days lounging away on the couch! Our Labs are a close pack and love to play. There is never a dull moment around the MLC Lab pack. Our dogs each have their own great personality that comes out when they romp and get into typical Labrador life situations. We love our Lab life! We focus on genetic health and environmental support in our breeding program. We are very conscious about improving the Labrador breed and because of that, all of our breeding dogs must pass their health testing before being bred. We test them for several genetic diseases known to affect Labrador Retriever. We also take our Labs for hips and elbows x-rays to make sure they are not dysplastic. We do this to ensure we are doing everything we can to produce the healthiest puppies we can. Our Labs have certified scores. Our litters can contain chocolate, silver, black, charcoal, yellow, and champagne puppies. The yellow and champagne puppies may range in shade from cream to light red. We can not guarantee shade. If you are on the waiting list for a yellow or champagne puppy it is for any shade. If you are interested in purchasing a puppy from us, we recommend starting the application process immediately. We know how exciting it is to watch puppies open their eyes and begin to play! We like to offer our puppy families the chance to see that. We host a lot of Facebook live videos so be sure to come hang out with us on our facebook page MLC Labradors. We offer delivery along the east coast, for an additional fee. For families not along the East coast we do have a flight nanny available. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Welcome to Russford Labradors! We strive to produce healthy, even tempered, and beautiful companions that families can be proud to own. Our dogs are true to their breed standard - in both conformation and in temperament often called "English" labs. Our versatile puppies are suitable as both family members and hunting companions, and we spend many weekends traveling around the country to AKC shows competing in conformation, rally, and obedience. We are a family made up of 4 adult daughters, plus mom and dad - we each have a Russford Lab or two or three in our homes, so that they can live like the spoiled pets they deserve to be. While puppies are raised at the family home in Bath, some of our adult dogs live with our daughters in different areas of New York State. We keep a small number of breeding dogs, usually between 2 and 4 adults, and we occasionally have puppies available to select homes. Our dogs have DNA, hips, elbows, hearts, and eyes tested at a minimum to prevent genetic diseases. Our puppies are raised in our home utilizing the Puppy Culture Program for rearing and socializing, and they are placed into loving pet homes on AKC limited registration. We typically have homes waiting for our puppies before they are born; if you are interested in our plans for future litters, please watch our Facebook and Instagram pages and contact us for more information when a litter is coming up. Thank you for visiting our site. Our Commitment: Welcome to Bailiwick Retrievers web site. We concentrate on Sporting Dogs, Hunting Dogs, Puppy training and of course, family companion puppies. We take a great deal of time researching just the right breeding combination, resulting in puppies very strong in intelligence, health and genetics. All of which allows you to take your new hunting companion and family member to the next level. We are licensed and inspected yearly by Georgia Department Of Agriculture We are not a boarding facility……. .Our Labrador retriever puppies carry the intelligence, trainability and instincts found in only the very best. Hunting Lab Breeders, like Bailiwick Retrievers, produce top hunting companions and of course, first class family members. We have placed our lab puppies for Search and Rescue, Narcotic Dogs, to the government and individual trainers, and Agility Dogs. We at Bailiwick Retrievers believe in socializing, starting on the first day they arrive. Our Pups are born in our house, in the Florida Room next to the Pool…. They are socialized from day one, introduced to loud noises, different sounds and different spaces. This is very important in helping them adjust to their new world without fear. It is all in the training, our dogs even sleep in the bed BUT they know the house rules as well as learning the rules and requirements of a Hunt Test. Teaching what is acceptable from the beginning is very important. Getting a Hunting Labrador Retriever puppy that has the best of both worlds is very easy with great breeding. The intelligence this strong breeding brings makes training easy. Our new lab puppy owners are very important to us. We encourage you to keep us posted on your new labs progress and development. We take great pride in our pups and love progress reports. We are always here for you with suggestions and to answer all questions. Labs are naturally born to hunt and make wonderful companion dogs with a natural family oriented temperament. The Labrador Retriever is unusually adaptable, obedient and kind-hearted. They are sociable, affectionate and loyal with a keen sense of smell. No wonder they are so popular!!! When we began looking for a puppy, we knew we wanted her to have a strong bloodline and come from a reputable breeder. We did a lot of research and finally landed on the Kennels of Baliwick based on their breeding standards and credentialed dam and sire. We are so happy with our decision and feel our Sweet Reese Lee is truly a great-looking dog! She is very affectionate and has demonstrated her ability to be a fabulous hunter time and time again. Loud noises, not a problem; gun shy, not this pup; curious, you betcha! Crate training was no problem with Reese and she had the basic obedience commands down in weeks. On top of that, her keen sense of smell and alertness is unmatched. She is high energy, super playful, and brings so much joy to our lives! We are very grateful to Barbara and Tyler for the love and safekeeping of Reese after she was born and could not have asked for a greater first puppy buying experience! Thanks again! Thank you David for all the joy you have given us. We love our beautiful dogs! He is just perfect! My vet said he has never seen a better put together Lab. He is the hit of our community and has to say hello to everyone he meets. Hidden Ponds is just the best place to purchase a Lab. David is so kind and informative. His dogs are gorgeous and well mannered. They treat their dogs with kindness and it shows. They are smart, their costs are beautiful! He has a great personality and is wonderful with the kids! He is lbs and thinks he is a lap dog. We would definitely buy from Dave again!! Lindie is an incredible athlete, as you can see by the photo. Lindie also volunteers at our local hospital in Glens Falls, NY comforting anyone that needs fur therapy! She is an amazing ambassador for the Labrador breed! Thank you! He hiked his first mountains this weekend in the Adirondacks. He is such a wonderful addition to our family and we will be back for a companion for him next year. Read more testimonials Bentley Bentley is almost 4 years old and is absolutely amazing! She is the happiest, cuddliest, wiggliest ball of fur, and I love her more than I can say. She is super smart, very curious, and a little mischievous. She has already learned to walk very well with my wheelchair. Thank you, Hidden Pond! At 9weeks she has accomplished stairs,swimming learned to sit and give paw. Play time and eating remain 1 LOL but,she is full of kisses and love all the time too. My sweet service dog, Rhett, came home in October of and has been the biggest blessing in my life. This breeder not only breeds for confirmation and health but for perfect personality and temperament. They are perfect in every sense of the term responsible breeder. I cannot imagine life without my Labs. And not to mention how welcoming everyone was when we went to pick Rhett up. They care about each puppy they welcome into their home. And they strongly support several forms of care to keep the puppies happy and healthy in their new homes like food and supplements! I cannot thank them enough or recommend them enough!! Savannah Stevens Read more testimonials Chip Chip is a crazy, funny, lovable gem. He is the most gorgeous dog. He has the most regal head. Everyone who sees him stops to tell us what a handsome dog he is. Thank you to Hidden Pond for letting him be ours. We picked her up in early July , and she made our family complete! She is such an amazing dog: sweet, gentle, loving, and playful. It is wonderful to see how much she loves our three young boys. We love how much she loves being outside — especially swimming and playing in the snow. Thank you Dave and your family for bringing her into our lives. She was exactly what our family needed to be complete. She is the sweetest, spunkiest and most wonderful dog we could have asked for. We picked him up this past September. He is a joy, fully housebroken, and so very funny. Everyone who meets him always comment on how handsome he is. He is really beginning to look like his dad, Thunder. He loves walking and meeting all his dog friends in our community. Thanks, David, for this wonderful dog! He has made our house a home again!! She brings so much joy to our home. She is loyal, smart and a lot of fun. She loves going on walks or long hikes in the woods and is a big snuggler in the house. Scout has a very sweet disposition and people comment on what a beautiful girl she is. She enjoys people and dogs of all ages. Thank you Dave, we are enjoying every day with one of your Hidden Pond pups! Courtney Hundley Read more testimonials Raemo This Lab is truly a best friend to everyone that comes his way. Very kind and affectionate. Raemo is now 6 months old and is great with the family, friends and the neighborhood. He is great with other dogs too! David and his Labs are simply the best and worth the wait! Rob Amurao Read more testimonials Daisy We got Daisy in June , but Dave introduced us to her the day she was born; it was love at first sight!!! Dave kept us updated with pictures and short videos as we anxiously awaited the day we could pick her up. She has been an absolute joy in our lives! She is incredibly smart, a sweetheart along with being an active puppy. She was swimming at 10 weeks with our other dogs. She is now 10 months old; everyone she meets loves her. Thank you, Dave, for such an awesome new family member!!! Marilyn Morey Read more testimonials Mabel Mabel is 6 months and we thank you for this blessing. She is a wonderful addition to our family. We love going on adventures with our little girl. Highly recommend and reasonable pricing! He has an amazing temperament, his favorite activities are long walks and swimming! Marlana Broderick Read more testimonials Chip Chip is the best dog we have ever had. He is funny, silly, smart and so handsome. We get stopped on the street every 5 feet. Everyone asks where he is from and tells us how gorgeous he is. Thank you Dave. This photo is with his sister Cocoa. Chip on the left Cocoa on the right. She has such a great personality. Gets along so well with the grandkids ,and so adaptable she took to the crate and house breaking so easily. Accepts new experiences so calmly. Dave has been great to work with a fountain of info. We also went with the dog food he recommended an love the results that we switched our cat to it as well. She is the most beautiful, sweet tempered, smart lab. We could not be happier having her as part of our family. Romy Ziegler. For nearly 50 years we have produced English Labradors in the true style of the all-around dog they were meant to be. Our ultimate goal has been a beautiful dog conforming to breed standards with soundness of temperament and body. Our Labradors retain the hunting ability that has made them the supreme hunting retriever. This intelligent, well-tempered dog is a perfect family companion and service dog. We are pleased to not only have many of our On The Bluff Labradors in pet, show and hunting homes, but also used as guide dogs for the disabled and specialist for airscent detection. Our breeding program strives for perfection in every litter. We use the highest quality stud dogs with a background of multiple Grand Champions. We combine their linage with the outstanding genetics of our females. The result are not just cute, adorable puppies, but dogs that can be well trained, healthy companions for a lifetime. We have never lost sight of our initial goal to produce the perfect Labrador- in mind and body. Feel free to email us for additional information or to get on a waiting list for one of our puppies. Staffed by professional trainers- each puppy receives several weeks and hundreds of hours of individual lessons- Obedience Training, House Living Training, Group Socialization, and Outside Etiquette. We believe our unique training methods and individualized programs sets us apart from any other breeder. Here you will find many adorable pictures of our current puppies. Our Prices: Our base prices are listed below, according to current demand for colors and genders. Note: Sales tax is due on any pups or merchandise sold in California. By request, and for an additional fee, we often transport puppies to Davis. We used to be able to ship puppies via airplane all over the continental United States, but more restrictions apply at this time, due to Covid, extreme heat, or extreme cold. Unfortunately, we no longer ship puppies to Hawaii, due to their quarantine restrictions. Can I pick out my Labrador Retriever puppy before the designated adoption date? Sorry, but no. Most people will not know which puppy they are choosing until puppy adoption day. What supplies do we need for our new puppy? So many people ask us this question, we wrote a blog giving our advice. You can read our blog here. Do you raise American or English Labs? Both, actually, but mainly American. Only a few of our dogs are pure English; some are a blend of American and English. Litters are usually pure American or a blend of American and English. None, so far, are pure English. If you scroll down to the bottom of the videos page you can also view links to past litters of Labrador puppies for your viewing pleasure. We may, however, be able to refer you to hunting dog trainers, so feel free to shoot us an email asking us about that. Marble Mountain Kennels.
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german shepherd puppy routine - However, you can encounter several other Labrador colors thanks to genetic variation and different breeding practices. Below are six of the most common color varieties. Black Labrador Since four out of nine potential Labrador color gene variations result in a black coat, black Labs are the most common coat color in Labradors. So, the takeaway here is that black Labs are always the dominant coat color. People love black Labs for their soft, shiny coats. The black Labrador pose for a photoshoot! Yellow Labrador Yellow Labs come in as the second most common color after black Labradors. Unlike black Labs, which have an unmistakable, predictable color, yellow Labs can come in many different shades. The genetic makeup of yellow Labradors includes one-third of the possible Lab color combinations. The genetic codes include eeBB, eeBb, and eebb. A Labrador sniffs a smoked dog bone 3. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three primary Labrador colors. There are only two genes that will produce these dogs—EEbb and Eebb. As with yellow Labs, chocolate labs vary significantly in their coat color. Some chocolate labs have a light brown coat, others a medium brown, and some are even so dark that they appear mixed with black and brown. Aside from their genetic predisposition to an earlier death, these dogs can also suffer from the same issues as other Labs, including patellar luxation, osteochondritis dissecans, and canine hip dysplasia. So, if you have your heart set on buying a chocolate Lab, keep in mind that you may lose your best four-legged friend about 1. A chocolate Labrador Retriever having its coat brushed 4. They get their dark, reddish coat from the same gene as yellow Labs. But since yellow Lab genes can present a wide variation in yellow colors, it causes some puppies to enter the world with an almost red coat. Red Fox Labrador Retriever looks up. Silver Labrador You might have trouble recognizing a silver Lab as a Labrador when they walk by, given that this is such a distinct color deviating from the three primary colors. And, unfortunately for silver Labs, these dogs are a color variation from chocolate Labs. Another issue that silver Labs frequently face is color dilution alopecia. Alopecia is a condition when the immune system harms hair follicles, which leads to skin issues and hair loss. So, should you be interested in breeding your Labrador, please be responsible and never breed a silver Lab. Silver Labrador Retriever sitting in the forest. Like red fox Labradors, white Labs have the same genetic makeup as yellow Labs. Nevertheless, no one will mistake these dogs for pure white; they almost always retain a light cream-colored look, thanks to some yellow fur. Albinism is a life-threatening and rare genetic condition resulting from a lack of pigmentation. Albino Labs often die young and suffer from conditions like blindness and deafness. A white Labrador Retriever sits quietly. If you think mating two black Labradors is a guarantee for producing black Lab puppies, think again. Black is a dominant gene in Labs, but the color yellow always overrides black and chocolate. Instead, check out the chart below to see the puppy colors from mating different colored Lab parents. Parent Colors. Articles When we think of Labrador Retrievers, the classic triad of black, yellow, and chocolate coat options. However, this popular dog breed actually comes in more colors and patterns than that. Besides the common Black Labrador you normally see, there are actually 13 different aesthetic options Labrador Retrievers can come in, in terms of coat type, colors, and patterns. These include rarer variations like the Dudley Labrador and Merle Labrador variations. In the sections below, we shall take a closer look at all these variations in terms of how to spot them and anything else that makes each unique. Dudley Image from Best Bully Sticks Dudley Labradors are a variation of the Labrador breed born without any pigment on their nose, eyes, or paw pads. These surfaces appear pink, red, or a very light shade of pinkish-brown. Dudley Labradors are usually light-colored and may either be a very light shade of yellow or all-white. Their eyes are also a characteristically light shade of brown. The genes responsible for the Dudley trait on Labradors are generally unproblematic. However, the lack of pigmentation leaves the nose of the Labrador exposed to sunburns. Merle Image from Instagram: smillasdogdiary Merle Labradors are some of the most unique-looking dogs in general and not just in the Labrador breed. They can be recognized by the presence of dark, mottled patches on a white or other light-colored coat. The patches on a Merle Labrador are of different sizes and distributed randomly. The merle gene responsible for this trait also affects pigmentation and can give the Labrador blue eyes, especially if they are bred from two Merle Labs. Unfortunately, the gene is also associated with eye and ear diseases which are also more commonly found in double-merle settings. What makes them common is the fact that there are several genetic combinations that give this trait. They are also unique in that Black Labrador puppies can result from breeding yellow or even chocolate-colored Labs. Due to their wide availability, Black Labradors are arguably the most popular variation. They are also believed to be smarter and more hardworking than the other variations, even though there is no scientific basis for this. They have a predominantly black coat with tan markings. The markings are usually distributed in a predictable manner over the body. This includes markings over the eyes, on the snout, neck, chest, and limbs. However, these will have mixed features and may not fully look like typical Labs. It appears as a dark shade of brown, very similar to chocolate or liver. Among the 3 most acceptable Labrador colors, Chocolate Labs are the rarest. This is because the genetic combination responsible for the trait only appears rarely. Even with breeding between 2 Chocolate Labradors, there is always the risk the puppies may not all be chocolate. What makes them different is that their shade of chocolate brown is a bit lighter and has a rusty red quality to it. In some cases, the shade is so light that they look almost earthy brown, like that of a fox. No matter how light or dark the shade of red is, it is important for it to be a solid color so that the Lab can be considered a true red variation. Like Chocolate Labradors, the red variety also has a reddish-brown-colored nose. Yellow Image from Paw. The shade of yellow varies from a rich, almost golden yellow to a light tinge of yellow that can easily be mistaken for white from a distance. The shade of yellow on Yellow Labradors is also nowhere near as intense as that on Goldies. This is different from really pale Yellow Labradors, which may sometimes have more pigmented fur on the ears, paws, and snout. Contrary to popular belief, White Labradors are actually not all suffering from albinism. They get their white coat from a rare and recessive leucistic gene. They get their grayish-blue shade from a dilution gene that waters down the intensity of what would have been a black coat. This dilution gene on Blue Labradors affects not only the fur but also other black-pigmented surfaces like the nose. At first glance, it may appear black, but on closer inspection, you will notice even its nose has the same slightly watered-down shade. They are not as common as the single solid-tone coat types. However, they are way more common than the other patterns that Labradors could possibly come in. The markings occur mainly with Black Labradors and Yellow Labradors. The white fur, in these cases, is distributed mainly to the neck, chest, belly area, and paws. They are best appreciated on Yellow Labradors or brown Chocolate Labradors due to the contrast. The stripes are most pronounced over the back, torso, and limbs. It is also common to find Brindle Labradors with a combination of patterns, in which case white markings are the most common pairing. Short Haired Image from YuMove According to the American Kennel Club breed standards for the Labrador Retriever , the short-haired variety is the only recognized and accepted coat type. Thus the fur is straight and coarse to the touch. The short-haired Labrador has a double coat with a softer undercoat that offers protection from simple injuries. Interestingly, short-haired Labradors tend to shed a bit more than their longer-haired companions and thus need more attentive coat care. However, their faces typically have shorter fur. Despite long-haired Labradors being so gorgeous, the trait is considered undesirable and is a result of recessive genes in the dog breed. The fact that it is recessive means that two long-haired Labs have to breed to produce puppies with the same trait. When comparing the three classic variations, the Chocolate Labrador is the rarest among the rest, Black Labrador and Yellow Labrador. This is because the chances for the required chocolate gene combination to manifest are much lower. In general, blue and white are two of the rare Labrador colors, whereas the merle pattern is considered to be very rare in purebred Labs. What Color Lab Sheds Least? There is no single Labrador color that sheds any more or less than the other varieties. The myth that Yellow Labradors shed more than black or chocolate ones is commonly busted from the fact that yellow fur strands are a lot more visible and easier to spot on clothes and furniture than the darker strands. The intelligence of a Labrador has nothing to do with its coat type, color, or pattern. However, there is this belief that Black Labs are the smartest. This is simply due to the fact that they are the most commonly found around the world. A fox red and traditional yellow Lab, flanked by a pair of black Labs. Black, yellow, and chocolate are the three traditional coat colors recognized by the AKC. If you ask the American Kennel Club , those are the only acceptable colors for a Labrador. And even then, those dogs must have other specific color features like dark noses and lips to count as true Labradors. But lately, non-traditional Labrador retriever colors have increased in popularity. The coats on these dogs look like faded versions of the traditional colors. Charcoal, silver, champagne, and white Labs have all emerged on the scene. So where did these new colors come from? Are they associated with health problems? A yellow Lab rests with her black pups. The dogs that Labs originate from, St. Once multiple generations of Labrador retrievers reproduced, recessive-gene colors like chocolate and yellow emerged from other bloodlines. The sire and dam that produce the litter of puppies pass down those genes to the offspring. Natalie Krebs The black coat color gene is dominant, Wilson explains. The chocolate coat gene, on the other hand, is recessive. Say two black Labs breed and produce a litter of pups. If just one of the parents—in this example, the sire—has all-black genes, none of their puppies will be chocolate. All the pups will be black Labs. Chocolate Labrador retrievers carry the recessive gene for coat color. If two chocolate Labs produce a litter, all the pups will be chocolate, too. The same is true for a black Lab that breeds a chocolate Lab. If the black Lab only has black genes to pass down, all their puppies will be black. But if that black Lab has a recessive chocolate gene to pass down, the litter could include both black and chocolate pups. Two chocolate Labs can only produce a chocolate litter, Wilson explains. All these dogs—the parents and the offspring—only have recessive chocolate genes. This yellow Lab was bred from a black female and a fox red male. Natalie Krebs Yellow coats come from an entirely different pair of genes than black or brown coats. Yellow Labs have the widest range in coat color while remaining within the AKC breed standard, Wilson says. Yellow Labs must have dark, heavily-pigmented noses, eyes, and lips, but their fur can range from a lighter vanilla to fox red. But in reality, the earliest yellow Labs were fox red, Wilson says. The color was first documented toward the end of the 19th century, and today, this coat variation is well within the AKC breed standard for yellow Labs. One of the more common falters is the light brown or pink nose, lips, and eyes. But from a health perspective, says Wilson, yellow Labs with light features are more prone to complications. Yellow Labs fall outside the AKC breed standard when their lips, nose, and skin around the eyes is pink, rather than black. These types of Labs are often referred to as Dudley Labs. This can make the skin more prone to sunburn or melanoma. Lighter, more sensitive eyes also make it harder for the dog to work properly in the field. Black Labrador retrievers are one of the most popular bird dogs in the country. Alex Robinson The best traditional Labrador retriever color is, of course, a matter of personal preference. Each color has their pros and cons. Yellow Labs Are harder to disguise in marsh and timber Are tougher to keep track of during an upland bird hunt since they tend to blend into grassy cover Identifying ticks, cuts, and abrasions is easier on their light coats Black Labs Are easier to disguise in many waterfowl environments, including marsh and timber Are easier to spot while working thick upland cover Their dark coat makes it harder to notice ticks, blood, and thorns Chocolate Labs Are the least traditional of the traditional Labrador retriever colors Have amassed a loyal following over the years Blend well into most habitat types and environments Non-Traditional Labrador Retriever Colors If a puppy inherits the recessive dilute gene from both parents, its coat will be diluted, or lighter in color. Chocolate Labs will turn silver in appearance. Black Labs will become charcoal, chocolate Labs will turn silver, and yellow Labs will turn either champagne or what is known as polar white. Dilute breeding to produce non-traditional Labrador retriever coat colors has its controversies. The practice is particularly frustrating to the traditional Labrador retriever community that strictly adheres to AKC purebred standards. Wilson rehashes a story of the first documented silver Lab, which she says was supposedly born in Wisconsin in to a chocolate Lab female and a chocolate Lab male. But the breeder, who Wilson says she knew about through a friend, was having trouble with a Weimaraner on his property at the time. When the litter arrived, some of the pups were chocolate Labs and some were silver. Silver Labrador retrievers have become wildly popular across the country. They forwarded the information to the AKC, who dispatched a field inspector to determine the genetics of the pups. This was a tricky assignment in the era before modern DNA testing and microchips. The breeder presented a chocolate female as the dam and said the sire, which had been on loan as a stud, was back in the northern part of the state. Silver Labs can have the exact same personalities and capabilities as traditional-colored Labs. Courtesy of Peggy Stalnaker Stalnaker, who breeds dilute Labs at DuckCreek, doubts this version of the silver Lab origin story, given what she knows about dilute genetics. Her hunch is that a few true recessive dilute puppies were born by accident. Stalnaker points out that this book was published well before the first documented cases of dilute Labs in the United States. The charcoal Labrador retriever is darker than silver and comes from a black Lab with the dilute gene. When dilute Labs became popular, she explains, attempts to meet consumer demand resulted in some problematic inbreeding. This resulted in dilute Labs that were less genetically diverse and had higher chances of genetic health issues. But Stalnaker puts all her dogs through extensive genetic testing to determine any predispositions for these issues, which range from dwarfism to exercise-induced collapse syndrome to excessively dry noses. Their fur would be really thin. She has avoided this by breeding in non-diluted Labs that possess the dilute gene. This means some of her puppies are traditional colors and some are diluted. But the diluted Labs have less disorder-prone genetic codes thanks to the genetic diversity from the non-diluted sire and dam. Her customers have been happy with their DuckCreek Labs. She recalls one man who flew to Kansas from south Georgia to pick up a silver puppy and fly it home. She cites the time commitment as a barrier. Despite criticism from traditional Labrador loyalists like Wilson, some owners still register dilute Labs under traditional AKC colors. Choosing a certain color Lab is really a matter of personal preference. If anybody is nasty, I just block them. The new variety of Labrador retriever colors is probably here to stay, since the consumer demand is high. But the dilute Labs will probably remain on the outskirts of the Lab community for the foreseeable future, while the traditional Labrador retriever colors of black, chocolate, and yellow continue to win hearts and field trials alike. Katie Hill Katie Hill is a staff writer for Outdoor Life where she covers outdoor news, hunting, and conservation in the West. She still lives in Missoula. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Updated: Nov 15, When it comes to coat color of Labrador puppies, there are three colors recognized by the American Kennel Club. Black Labs, yellow Labs, and brown Labs often called chocolate Labs are the three main varieties of Labrador retriever, however these puppies often exhibit different shades of black, yellow, and brown fur. So with so much variation, what causes a difference in color? Where it begins to get tricky is when we discuss the genetics of black labs and chocolate labs when compared to yellow lab. Allele: One of two or more versions of a gene. When it comes to the coats of Labrador puppies, fur color is determined by one of two different genes, as well as a variety of alleles. When it comes to black lab puppies and chocolate lab puppies, both varieties inherit their fur color from a single gene, known as "Tyrosinase-related protein 1. Here we have two dominant genes for black fur, obviously resulting in a black lab puppy. In a situation in which either parent passes on the dominant allele and the other passes on the recessive, the lab puppy will still have a black coat. When both parents pass on the recessive allele, only then do we see a chocolate lab puppy. So, Where Does Yellow Come from? Yellow Labrador puppies get their hair color from a gene entirely different from the gene that determines black or brown fur. Melanocortin 1 receptor MC1R is the gene responsible for yellow lab puppies, but can still result in fur coats of black and brown. As you may have deduced, the allele for yellow lab puppies is recessive. Both parents pass on dominant alleles for black or chocolate fur, resulting in a black or chocolate puppy. Only in a situation in which both parents pass on alleles coding for yellow fur is the TYRP1 gene overridden and yellow lab puppies are produced. What is also interesting about the creation of yellow lab puppies is the fact that while their fur coat is without black or brown pigment, their skin will still exhibit the same color pigment as that of black or chocolate lab puppies. Visit the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory website Labrador retrievers have coats of three basic colors: yellow, black, and chocolate. These colors are determined genetically, just like almost all of the traits that offspring get from their parents. The modes of inheritance of these coat colors are autosomal not related to the sex of the dog. The information for black or chocolate comes from two versions of the same gene different versions of a gene are known as alleles. This gene is different from the one that causes yellow hair. There are four known alleles at this gene in the Labrador Retriever: one is the allele for black designated as B and three different alleles that result in chocolate collectively designated as b. In determining if your puppies will be black or chocolate, the black coat color B is dominant to the chocolate b. Therefore, a puppy will only be chocolate if each parent contributes a chocolate allele bb. If one or both parents Bb or BB contribute the black dominant allele, the puppy will be black BB or Bb , although a Bb puppy would carry chocolate and could therefore produce chocolate puppies. Black Labrador Retriever. Photo by Katy Robertson. Chocolate colored Labrador Retriever. There are several known alleles of this gene in dogs, but for Labradors the most common are E produce black and brown pigment and e only produce yellow pigment. An e allele at the MC1R gene prevents expression of the black or chocolate color in the hair follicle and the puppy's hair ends up yellow. Interestingly, the black or chocolate pigment is still expressed in the skin, just not in the hair. In order to be yellow, a Labrador must have two recessive alleles of the MC1R gene ee. This means both parents contributed a yellow allele e. However, if only one Ee or no EE yellow-causing alleles are contributed, this puppy will be either black or chocolate depending on which alleles are present at the TYRP1 gene see above. Yellow Labrador Retriever. Two yellow labs can only have yellow puppies ee , since they both only have the yellow allele e to contribute to their offspring. If they are bred to each other, there is a chance that some puppies will get a copy of e from each parent and have yellow hair Bbee, BBee, or bbee. If you are interested in breeding your Labrador and would like to know the genetic make up of your dog to predict the color of your puppies, genetic tests are available. The tests are easy, non-invasive, and simply require that you take a swab of the inside of your dog's cheek and send it to the laboratory. Primary Category. Their fun-loving and positive personalities combined with their gentleness and willingness to please their owners makes them the perfect family pet. Statistically speaking, Black Labs are the most common of all Labrador color variations. This is due to how coat color is inherited in this breed. Without getting too far into a scientific explanation for this, there are nine different possible gene combinations for coat color. Four of these lead to a black coat, three to yellow, and only two to chocolate. Due to random chance, Black Labs make up nearly half of all Labradors. Yellow Labs often have a very light brown or tan colored coat that can appear yellowish. Chocolate Labrador Image Credit: skeeze, Pixabay The rarest of the three major Labrador colors, the Chocolate Lab is beautiful and adorable with a deep brown, chocolate-colored coat. Chocolate Labs are regarded as the most energetic and hardest to train, and while there is no research-based evidence to support this, Chocolate Labs are the only Labs not used as service dogs by the leading dog training organizations. This is possibly due to a higher energy level. Their absence from service dog institutions may also be due to the fact that Chocolate Labs experience more health problems and tend to have shorter lifespans than their Black and Yellow counterparts. On average, Chocolate Labs live about a year and a half shorter than other colored Labs. Simply put, they have the genetics of a Yellow Lab but present a darker coat that appears reddish. White Labs usually have very pale brown fur that can appear purely white, especially in the sun. Their fur normally has light brown or yellowish tinges around the ears and paws. Albino Labs do carry additional health problems such as deafness, blindness, and other eye issues. Austin, Shutterstock Silver Labs are stunning, regal, and sleek. Their light grey coat shines beautifully in the sun, and their appearance is as striking as it is adorable. These pups are similar to Red Labs in that they have the same genetics as one of the major three Lab colors. Silver Labs are really Chocolate Labs, even though they may look more like Blue Labs, but their coat is light or diluted, and the result is a silvery appearance. Like their chocolate siblings, Silver Labs, unfortunately, inherit some additional health issues and tend to live shorter lives than Black and Yellow Labradors. Defining Physical Characteristics What is it that makes this breed so recognizable? Labs are often stocky and athletic with a broad chest and a thick, wide skull. Labs have short, dense fur that is water-resistant. In fact, they were named after the Labrador Sea off of Newfoundland where they were originally bred to retrieve waterfowl. No matter where they go, Labs seem to bring joy and happiness with them. They are loyal, loving, and affectionate. What more could you ask for in a dog? Labs have short, dense fur that is prone to heavy shedding and matting, so you should plan to brush your Labrador at least two or three times a week to cut down on shedding and keep their fur looking sleek. Labradors of all coat colors should be bathed about once every other month with a dog-friendly shampoo. Bathing more often can eliminate those healthy skin oils we mentioned, so avoid giving your pup a bath more often unless they find their way into some mud. Final Thoughts Labs come in three main colors but can have lots of different coat shading that makes them appear unique and especially striking. See also:. Original Labrador Retriever Color Black is the original, archetypal Labrador color, and genetically the most dominant. Chocolate and yellow puppies were frequently euthanized at birth. To understand that we have to look at the genetic difference between black and chocolate Labs. Labrador Retriever Color Genetics Both types get their color from a pigment called eumelanin. Labs with lots of eumelanin pigment in their coat are black. If they have a little less, they appear brown instead. We use letters to tell each place apart — a bit like giving each locus its own zip code! The B locus is home to a pair of genes called B genes. There are two types of B gene your Lab can get in their pair: One we call big B — it contains an instruction to make lots of eumelanin, and causes a black Labrador coat. And one we call little b — it contains an instruction for less eumelanin, and causes a brown or chocolate coat. Big B is a dominant gene, and little b is a recessive gene. Dominant genes to switch off, or override, recessive genes. So dog with BB genes will be black, because he has two genes for a black coat. And a Bb dog will be black too, because the dominant B genethe recessive b gene. Only a dog with a matching pair of bb genes will express the instruction for less eumelanin in their coat, and be brown. Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog with two copies of the b gene will actually look brown. But the dominance of the black color enabled our chocolate friends to remain hidden and rare with the breed, for many decades. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. In fact, it would take two black Labs both carrying the little b gene to produce chocolate puppies. Like this: Statistically, one quarter of their litter would be chocolate colored. And of course, some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. These genes are located at the E locus. And — you guessed it — we call them E genes. Just like B genes there are two versions of the E gene, big E and little e. Big E is the dominant gene. It does not interfere with the B genes. Little e is the recessive gene. It has the potential to mask the B genes that would otherwise give us black or brown coats. And the result is a yellow dog. How Yellow Overrides Black and Chocolate Only the little e gene can mask the instructions for black or chocolate fur. There are three possible combinations of E gene that a dog can inherit. It could have two dominant genes EE two masking genes ee or one of each Ee. Only the middle of these three dogs will be yellow. Nine Different Possible Labrador Genotypes! Every Labrador has a combination of B and E genes — called their genotype. There are nine different possible genotypes. Here they are in full: Can you see why each combination of genes turns out the way it does? Because as you can see, the second dog down the list may look black but he could throw brown puppies, and the fourth dog down the list may look black, but he could throw yellow puppies. The fifth dog down the list is also black but he could throw yellow and brown puppies. Puppy colors are easier to predict when both parents owe their appearance to the recessive genes b or e. Mating Two Yellow Labradors Two yellow Labradors mated together will never throw brown or black puppies. All their offspring will be yellow. This is because yellow dogs do not possess the big E gene which is needed to switch off the masking effect. Mating Two Chocolate Labradors Two brown Labs mated together will never throw black puppies because brown dogs do not have the big B gene. But two chocolate Labs can produce yellow puppies, if each of the parents carries the little e gene — like this: In the mixed litter, statistically one of half of the puppies will be chocolate and one half yellow. Depending on their genotype, two black Labradors can indeed have yellow or chocolate puppies. Remember from our grid above that there are four different possible genotypes for a black Labrador. The genotype refers to the genetic code that the dog carries. And the four different possible black genotypes down the side to represent the father. Inside the grid are the puppies that could be born from each combination. If and only if, both parents carry a little e gene, then some of the puppies may be yellow. Remember that your puppy needs two little e genes one from each parent in order to be yellow. If only one of two black dogs carries the little e gene, all their puppies will be black. Yes it is, check out the bottom right hand square in the diagram above! Notice that it can only happen if both parents dogs have this genotype: EeBb. In other words, they both carry a little e and a little b. This is good example of how complicated, and unexpected, Labrador colors can be. There are six different possibilities for litter color combinations depending on the genotype of the parents. You can even get a litter of all black puppies from a chocolate mother and a yellow father or vice versa! Here are the color possibilities: yellow, black, and chocolate puppies yellow and black puppies. Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Labrador Colors 1. Black Labrador Most black Labs are entirely black. But, some have one or two white spots on their fur. This interruption in their solid black coat is due to genetic traces left from their late ancestor, the St. The black Labrador Retriever was historically the most common coat color. Even today, nearly half of all Labs are black! When Retrievers were first bred, black coated dogs were the only pups deemed acceptable. Their popularity was driven by two reasons: Black is the favorite coat color for hunting. Four out of nine gene combinations result in a black coat. Sadly, until the 20th century, all other Lab colors would be euthanized shortly after birth. They were not valued the same way black Labradors were. Black Labradors were perfect for their original purpose, hunting. Their dark coat color helped them blend in and move stealthily while hunting or participating in field trials. These Labs tend to have the strongest hunting instincts as their black coats were historically bred for hunting. Even to this day, they are focused, diligent workers. These shiny, sleek dogs are not only beloved in the field, but they also make wonderful pets. Many owners regard black Labs as the calmest and most affectionate of all Lab colors. However, there is no scientific evidence to back up this claim. Chocolate Labrador Chocolate Labs are the rarest of the three major Lab colors. These dogs are rarely used for hunting or working, but are champions in the show ring! Their color stuns judges and earns high marks in conformation shows. The shade of brown that chocolate Labradors can come in varies. Some are a rich chocolate while others are a dark brown color known as liver. Some even have a beautiful red hue within their brown fur! The chocolate color exists on a spectrum and can vary greatly due to genetics. Some of these assumptions have become widely accepted in the Labrador community. Chocolate Labs are regarded as the most rambunctious with a bit too much energy for their bodies! These pups are spunky and often hard to train, which may explain why they are not used as service dogs. Even if these Labs are a bit energetic and naughty at times, they are just as beloved due to their affectionate nature and goofy personality. The unfortunate truth about chocolate Labradors is that they often suffer from more health problems than other types of Labs. Some of these health concerns are minor and include hot spots skin irritation and ear inflammation. However, some are more serious and can shorten their lifespan. They often live a year and a half less than the other Labradors. Yellow Labrador Yellow Labradors may not be the most popular Labrador Retriever color, but they are the most beloved. Many owners claim that yellow Labs are the friendliest and most outgoing. Their outstanding reputation is reinforced by their heavy presence in daily life! Yellow Labs are often seen in movies such as the adorable Lab who played Marley in Marley and Me or the sweetheart who acted as Old Yeller. The media have also boosted their popularity as has their recognition as common service, search and rescue, and therapy dogs. Similar to chocolate, the yellow coat color exists on a spectrum. Some yellow Labs are a light brown or tan, others are yellow like a lemon, and then there are cream-colored Labs. There are also fawn Labradors. Fawn Labs are darker, but are not quite red. The yellow Lab may be the Labrador Retriever with the most variation in its coat color! Yellow Labs are just as hard-working as black Labs, although they are not as commonly used for hunting. They are very similar to black Labs and are just as highly trainable, affectionate, and hard-working. Silver Labrador Silver Labradors are by far the rarest of all colors. These dogs are a light gray to blue color that looks silver in the sunlight. These Labradors are often mistaken for Weimaraner mixes because of their silver coat. Silver Labs actually have the same genetics as any type of Lab, despite looking very different. They are just as smart, fun, and loving as any other Retriever. They have a dilute gene that overrides the designated chocolate coat color. Rather than being chocolate, these dogs have a silver or blue coat color. This same coat color dilution can occur in yellow Labs and in black Labs. Diluted yellow Labs are known as champagne and diluted black Labs are known as charcoal. However, Silver is the most unique. Not many silver Labs exist due to the recessive nature of the dilute gene. Silver Labs are undoubtedly stunning, but they have a higher potential of developing health issues. They often develop color dilution alopecia which presents as itchy skin or patchy fur. Fox Red Labradors have the same genetics as a yellow Lab, but just have a deep yellow or brown hue to their coat. This deep brown looks rusty red and makes them look just like a fox. Labrador Retriever fans adore fox red Labs because of their friendly personalities. They have lovingly nicknamed these dogs Ruby Labradors. Clifford, the beloved big red dog, is even based off a fox red Labrador. The red color gives them a rugged look that many owners love! However, this love does not extend to the American Kennel Club. The American Kennel Club does not recognize fox reds as a unique color and registers these Labrador Retrievers as yellow labs. Judges often view this dark pigmentation as a serious fault, so it is unlikely that a fox red Lab would ever win a conformation show. Some people are highly suspicious of the fox red color. They often argue that fox reds are not purebred and that they are mixed with Golden Retrievers. This is not true. It is all the beauty of a Golden Retriever without the high maintenance and long coat that Goldens are known for. White Labrador White Labradors are just a variation of the yellow Lab. They have the same genetics as a yellow Lab, they just happen to be much paler. White Labs are the lightest shade of yellow possible. This color exists on the opposite end of the spectrum than fox red Labs do. The shade of their fur is typically a pale yellow that looks white in the sunlight. They may also have brown or yellow ears and paws that are darker than the rest of their coat. Their white fur gives them an aura of royalty. Just like any yellow Labrador, white Labs are regarded as kind dogs who love everyone they meet. They make horrible guard dogs as they make friends with everyone and are quick to trust every stranger they meet! They are often pampered and spoiled beyond belief. There are no known health issues associated with this color. Most white labs are healthy because they are just a pale yellow, not true white. Albino Labradors are rarer and also sensitive to bright sunlight. Merle labs may suffer from deafness, blindness, and shortened lifespans. Discussing Labrador Retriever colors can be controversial. Are silver and red Labs purebred? Do personality traits differ between different colored Labs? Should silver, red, and white have their own color category? The answers to these questions are not simple. They say that behavior is determined by genetics, socialization, training, and health. In their opinion coat color is just cosmetic. On the other hand, there are owners and breeders who argue that coat color affects the personality of a Lab. These owners and breeders have lived and interacted with Labs of all colors. In their opinion coat color is linked to characteristic personality traits. These Lab lovers have agreed that: Black Labs are the calmest and most skilled at hunting. Yellow Labs are the friendliest and best with people and children. Chocolate Labs are the rowdiest, most energetic, and difficult to train. On the side of science, color does not affect the behavior of a Labrador Retriever. However, breeders and owners have recorded the behavior traits associated with each coat color. It is up to you whether to decide if color matters for Labrador Retrievers or not! Which Is The Rarest Color? Silver is the rarest Lab color. Silver is rare because it can only come from a unique genetic makeup. The dilution gene needed to produce this silver hue is a recessive gene and is often masked by the genes for a chocolate coat. If you ever happen to see one of these silver beauties, take the time to really admire them as you may never see another one again! Which Color Is The Best? This is definitely an opinion question that has no right answer! Each color of Labrador suits a specific type of owner: Athletic, hunting owners will want a black Lab. Yellow Lab owners claim that their dogs are the best due to their friendly personalities. Chocolate Labs win the most prizes in conformation shows. Silver Labs are the rarest, to complicate the argument even more. It is up to each owner to decide which color they love the best. An argument can be made for each Labrador color as to why that color is the best. Among Labrador owners it is widely accepted that black Labs are the calmest. This could be a result of their hard-working, hunting instincts which cause them to be much more focused and level-headed. Chocolate Labs who parade around show rings are often the most rambunctious. If you ask the experts, you will get the answer that coat color has no effect on Labrador behavior. However, if you read various Labrador Retriever websites and forums, or talk to Lab owners, you may hear a different story. Whether you decide to believe this claim is up to you! There is no scientific evidence to back the claim up that black Labs are the calmest Labradors. Summary Each color of Labrador Retriever is beautiful and unique in its own way. Silver Labs are rare, black Labs are sleek and elegant, yellow Labs have an aura of kindness, white Labs are elegant, red Labs are devoted to their work, and chocolate Labs are gorgeous and show ready! Labrador coat colors are the perfect example that beauty truly is in the eye of the beholder. Want to learn more about Labs? Read: English vs. American Labrador: Top 10 Differences. Which coat color is your favorite and why? Let us know in the comments below! She is a passionate dog lover and was raised with an affectionate, calm Yellow Lab Golden Retriever mix that fostered her love for her canine companions. Kelsie is actively involved with multiple humane societies and has cared for the dogs of over 45 different families. You May Also Like.