golden retriever puppies adoption ma

Metal, nylon, or leather? Retractable, adjustable, or fixed? These are just some of the leash types you will come across either in a shop or online. Not to worry though, because after reading this guide you will have all the information you need. One of the main aspects to consider when buying a leash for your German Shepherd is that it needs to be comfortable for your pooch. A good leash should be long something between 5 and 6 feet; this will help provide comfort for your dog and full control over him for you. German Shepherds are powerful dogs and you need to be able to gain full control over them in any situation. In fact, this leash is made of mountain climbing rope and has a heavy-duty clasp with a classic leather connection. You can go hiking, swimming, running with your German Shepherd and this leash will always be in perfect condition for many years. You can choose the length of this leash since it can be 4, 5, or 6 feet long. Fairwin Leather Dog Leash The Fairwin leather leash is the strongest and most durable one of the bunch. If kept properly this leash will just never go wrong. It is made of genuine leather with a very strong metal clip that will keep your dog safely attached. The length of the leash is 5. It can carry up to Lb pull force, making it the ideal choice for dogs that are big pullers. There is just one downside to this leash. As we said before, the Fairwin leash can last forever, but you must avoid getting it wet. If it gets wet its durability will be seriously compromised and it will probably acquire a funny odor as well. At that point, your pooch will probably fancy a bite of it and… goodbye to your lovely leather leash. So no rainy days, swimming, etc with this leather leash. It in fact has all the key elements of a good leash without having to spend a lot of money. This leash is durable, because made with nylon mountain rope and has a strong metal clasp to ensure long-lasting performance. It is also very comfortable to hold on to, thanks to the padded handle; this is a very useful feature for a leash especially if your dog is a puller. This leash is also ideal if you take your German Shepherd for walks at night because it is made with reflective material that will keep you both safe and visible. The iYoShop leash is a good balance between control over your dog and freedom of movement. The length is between 4. There is a very useful extra handle on the leash thanks to which you can better control your dog on busy sidewalks, bike lanes, or any crowded areas. This leash is thought of especially for large breeds as the German Shepherd, which can be difficult to control without straining your arm or wrist. The bungee works perfectly when you need to halt your dog without the risk of hurting yourself and it eases the pressure for you and your dog. It in fact has an extra handle that will help you take control of your dog whenever you need to. It is a versatile leash that can be perfect if you take your dog to a park and then to a shop and you need to have two different lengths to comfortably manage both situations. The leash is 6 ft long and 1 inch wide, which is thicker and stronger than average leashes. It is made of reflective material that can be easily seen during night walks, granting extra security to you and your dog. It is made of durable nylon and it is 1 inch thick. You and your dog can go together wherever you want with this leash. You can go just for a walk around the block, a day hiking in the mountains, or for a swim at the beach; this leash is really made for heavy use. It has a strong metal clasp and a padded neoprene handle which will guarantee comfort to your hand even if your German Shepherd is a puller. The stitching is made with reflective material which will give you and your dog extra visibility and safety at night. This leash comes in many different bright colors that will suit all tastes. This is a really nice plus! It is made of chrome-plated metal that is guaranteed against rust, tarnish, or breakage. This leash could definitely last forever since even the clip is made for heavy-duty. The leash is 6 ft long and 0. Choosing The Material For German Shepherds Leash When it comes to choosing the best leash for German Shepherds based on the materials it is made of you have 3 choices: leather, nylon, or metal. Leather Leather leashes are very strong and durable. They are also the most comfortable leashes to hold on to. If you have a large dog such as a German Shepherd you will soon realize how important this aspect is. For this reason, if you have a leather leash for your dog, it cannot be the only leash you own. You will have to have a backup lash made either from nylon or metal. Nylon Nylon is the most common material for leashes. This is a great plus if your dog should ever run away. It will be easy to spot him even at nighttime. The only inconvenience with nylon is that it is not as durable as the other materials. This is why you will have to go for the thicker nylon leashes for heavy-duty; they are made to last longer than ordinary nylon ones. Metal If durability is your main concern, then your best choice will be a metal leash. This type of dog leash will last years and years, or probably forever. There are at least 3 types of leashes you will see in any pet shop: retractable, adjustable, and fixed. So which one would be the most suitable for a German Shepherd? Try to do it with a German Shepherd and in the best-case scenario, your pooch will take you for a not very nice run, or worse you will completely lose control of him. Fixed A fixed leash is instead a good choice for a powerful dog; it gives you complete control over her and it will be less easy to get overbalanced whenever she pulls. The downside of a fixed leash is that you cannot give more way to your dog if you are going for a walk together in a park or hiking on a mountain. Adjustable An adjustable leash is the best leash for German Shepherds. It has 3 or 4 rings to which you can attach one end of the leash and regulate it as you please. Adjustable leashes can be adjusted to be from about 1 meter to 3 meters long. Ideally, having more than one leash is a winning choice. Shorter leashes give you more control over your dog, so if you are walking on a busy street your best choice would be a short leather leash. If you love going on hiking trips or to the beach with your pet, you might want to consider buying a long leash made of climbing rope; this will allow both of you to explore the surroundings comfortably. You could use it on a harness made especially for hiking. Is Your Dog A Chewer? Another aspect to consider when buying a leash is if your dog is a chewer. In this case, leather leashes would not be the best choice, especially if they get wet after a rainy day. Remember that if a leash gets chewed by your dog, this will definitely make it less safe for him, and he could run away on a busy street. Your best choice if your dog is a chewer is a metal leash. Here are the things you need to consider when choosing a leash for your German Shepherd: Write a list of subheadings for the things you need to consider when choosing a leash for your German Shepherd 1. Smaller dogs may be able to get away with a lightweight leash, but for larger breeds, a sturdier option is necessary. The last thing you want is for your dog to break free from their leash while out on a walk. On the other hand, if you have a calmer breed like an English bulldog, you might be able to get away with a less durable leash. Material Another important consideration is the material of the leash. The most common choices are nylon and leather, but each has its own advantages and disadvantages. Nylon leashes are generally less expensive than leather, and they come in a variety of colors and styles. On the other hand, if the leash is too long, it will be difficult to control your dog and could even pose a safety hazard. Luckily, measuring your dog for a leash is a quick and easy process. Once you have the measurement, simply consult a size chart to find the right leash for your pup. Comfort The fourth thing to consider is both the comfort of the dog and the owner. The leash should also be easy to grip and comfortable for the owner to hold, even during long walks. A padded handle is a plus point if you plan on doing a lot of walking. Budget Leashes come in a wide range of prices, from budget-friendly options to high-end designer leashes. On the other hand, if you have a large dog or an active breed, you might need to invest in a sturdier, more expensive leash. Law Where you live will impact what type of leash you need to buy for your German shepherd. It is important to consider the law where you live when choosing a leash for your German shepherd. Depending on where you live, there may be specific rules about leash lengths. Make sure the leash you buy complies with the law. In addition to considering the law, it is also important to think about what type of environment your German shepherd will be walking in. If you live in a rural area, a different type of leash may be required than if you live in an urban area. Style German shepherds are intelligent, versatile dogs that make excellent companions. When choosing a leash for your German shepherd, you need to consider the style of leash that will best suit your needs. Standard leashes are typically made from leather or nylon and are available in a variety of lengths. Retractable leashes are also available, which allow you to adjust the length of the leash and give your dog more freedom to explore. Additional feature Last but not least, you need to consider any additional features that you might want on your leash. This will help make sure you and your dog are visible to motorists. This leash is comfortable, durable, and affordably priced, making it a great option for everyday use. The Carhartt Dog Leash is our top pick for large, strong German shepherds. This leash is constructed from durable materials and reinforced with tough stitching, making it able to withstand even the strongest tugging. It is also equipped with reflective stitching, ensuring that you and your dog will be visible in low light conditions. This guide will help you choose a leash based on your needs and budget. Thanks for reading! Why Trust Us? The TrainYourGsd research team has spent hours researching and testing the best dog leashes on the market. We consulted with experts and considered a variety of factors, including leash length, material, and price. We also took into account the specific needs of German shepherds when choosing the best leashes for this list. German shepherds are strong dogs with a lot of energy, so we wanted to make sure that the leashes on this list could handle their strength. We also considered the different environments that German shepherds might be walking in and chose leashes that would be appropriate for both urban and rural settings. Related posts:. It comes in different sizes and colors to suit your needs and preferences. Since the retractable leash can extend up to 16 feet, your Shep is free to wander wherever they like without getting out of your control. And if you feel they have strayed far enough, you just need to engage the quick lock and brake system with a simple push of a button. Made from woven nylon, this leash is sturdy enough to handle large breeds weighing between 33 and pounds and will not wear out with heavy-duty use. The ergonomically designed handle features a non-slip design to give you a firm and comfortable grip. And the easy-to-use bolt snap is chrome plated for weather resistance. Pros Ergonomic handle with non-slip design The leash can move degrees Can extend up to 16 feet Features a quick lock and brake system Cons It is a little heavy 4. It also has 2 length options 3. This leash is made from polyester but is lined with a nylon webbing for added strength. The Duraflex bolt snap is made from a lightweight zinc alloy with a sturdiness that enables you to attach the leash securely. Thanks to the padding on the ergonomic handle, you can grip the leash comfortably for hours without discomfort. The leash comes in a reflective material that makes it convenient and safer to walk your Shep at night or in dimly lit environments. However, we found it a bit costly for a standard option. Pros Comes in varying sizes and colors Sturdy bolt snap. Product Reviews You know you need a collar and leash for your German Shepherd — but with so many choices, where do you even begin!? Welcome to my complete guide to all the best German Shepherd collars and leashes. Even well-trained dogs run the risk of not behaving under stressful or exciting circumstances. If your dog gets loose, you want it to be easily identified and returned quickly. Collars are also an essential training tool. Some are specifically designed for behavior training and help you teach your dog good leash manners. Always remember, a collar and a leash is only a tool to help you train your dog — it is not a substitution for training! Types of Dog Collars When it comes to choosing a dog collar, arm yourself with a little knowledge before hitting the pet store or you can easily get overwhelmed. There are a ton of options out there, and most pet stores dedicate an entire aisle to just dog collars and leashes. Flat collars This is your basic, everyday dog collar, typically made from nylon or leather with metal or plastic buckles. You can find these at just about any store, and they often come in fun colors and patterns. Because of this, Martingale collars are also known as limited-slip collars. Choke chains A choke chain or choke collar is a chain link collar that tightens when your dog pulls. If used correctly, choke chains can be used effectively for training purposes — but rarely are they used correctly! And if used incorrectly, they are not safe for your dog. Instead, they tighten and choke your dog, interfering with its breathing and possibly causing injury to the neck. There are simply better options out there for teaching good leash behavior. Pinch collars Pinch or prong collars are similar to choke chains but are actually safer in many ways. These chain link collars have metal prongs around the inside of the collar. Allie does own a pinch collar, but I used it only for training purposes, as recommended by her trainer. Like choke chains, a pinch collar can cause injury if used incorrectly. But if you have a strong-willed German Shepherd, it can be an effective tool to learn a behavior. Just keep in mind that a pinch collar should be used for training purposes. An adult German Shepherd will typically wear a large-sized collar. But not all German Shepherds are the same, and of course, a growing puppy will have different size requirements. Measuring is simple. You can use a sewing tape if you have one. Take the measurement around the neck where the collar normally sits. Then, measure that length against a tape measure or ruler. Also, if you have a growing puppy, keep in mind that you will need to check the tightness of the collar regularly. The Soft Touch Collar is handmade from genuine, high-quality leather and comes with a lifetime guarantee. I can attest to the quality — Allie wears hers every day and it still looks new after years of use. And the soft padding on the inside of the collar is a nice touch as well. What I love:. It is a wide-spread assumption that dogs need to be leashed only during their training period. But in reality, there are several reasons to leash large dogs like German Shepherds. Different states and cities across the United States of America have their own leash laws. It is mandatory to leash your dog as per the leash laws in your area. Safety is also a major reason why you should leash your dogs, at least in public areas. There is a high probability of accidents if the dog roams around off-leash. Hence, it is important to get the best German Shepherd leash for avoiding any sorts of accidents or mishaps. Types of Leashes for German Shepherd There are different types of leashes available for large breeds like a German Shepherd, each fulfilling a variety of purposes. The following are some of the most popular types of dog leashes: 1. Basic Leash A basic or a fixed leash is a standard leash that works best for dogs who are slow-walkers. If your dog does not pull hard during their regular walks, you must go for such a leash. Such a heavy duty dog leash is constructed with reliable materials like nylon or leather. Even though the design of a basic leash is well…basic, it works pretty well for large breeds like German Shepherd. If push comes to shove, this leash helps in maintaining control over the situation. Hands-Free Leash Most of the dog owners complain about getting their hands bruised due to the constant handling of the leash. Hands-free leashes were a reliable solution for the said problem. It has certain distinctive features like a waist belt with a buckle and a band. It might also have more than one handle that can help in navigating the dog while giving them the flexibility to move around. Hands-free leashes are mostly used for outdoor activities like running or hiking. Double-Handed Leash The only major difference between a basic leash and a double-handed leash is that it has two handles to hold a better control over the canine. It is also made with the same nylon material. Double-handed leashes have an additional handle situated closer to the clip. Majorly, this is done for the convenience of the dog owner. The longer handle can be used during walks or runs. On the other hand, the shorter handle can be used to protect your dog in crowded places. As regular fixed leashes are not that long, it hampers their freedom. But with the retractable leashes, you can provide the required independence to your dogs under your supervision. It generally extends up to ft. However, retractable leashes are not recommended for large breeds. So, if you wish to get one for your German Shepherd, make sure that it is a nylon leash. Such material will hold well against big dogs. Multi-Dog Leash It is more economical to buy multi-dog leashes than buying a new leash altogether, especially when you have a family of dogs at home. Most of the dog owners prefer buying such a leash as it makes it easier for them to take all their dogs for a walk simultaneously. Along with that, it also saves money. Training Leash As the name suggests, training leashes are used for dog training purposes. Generally, the length is longer than a basic leash as it allows the dogs, especially puppies, to learn basic commands. Training leashes can range in a variety of lengths like 10, 15,20 ft…etc. As dogs need to be trained for certain commands like come, go, or stop. Such training leashes can be useful in coaching for such skills. With several types of leashes, it can be challenging to determine the best one for your German Shepherd. To help you make an informed decision, the following are some of the factors that you should keep in mind while making a purchase. Material The prioritized criteria should always be the material. It is an important component that decides the comfort and sturdiness of the leash. Mainly, there are three types of materials found in dog leashes for German Shepherds. Metal: Metal is considered to be the strongest material when it comes to dog leashes. It is practically unchewable and can be used for a long period. Nylon: Nylon is the next best option and most of the dog leashes have a nylon webbing construction. Not only is it waterproof, but the reflective stitching makes the leash easier to spot in dark. Leather: Leather is a reliable option as it is stronger than nylon. However, it is not waterproof. Along with that, dogs love chewing leather. But when it comes to comfort, leather is invincible. Safety A leash is supposed to control your dog without hurting them. You must also opt for a leash with reflective stitching. In case you are out for a walk at night with your dog, such a feature helps in getting the leash distinguished. Durability It is necessary to select a dog leash that is durable and reliable. As German Shepherds are large breeds, they put an added pressure when they pull or run. Make sure the leash has a solid structure to endure such a force. Size The preferred length of the leash is subjective, depending on its purpose. Mostly, the ideal length is 6 ft. Longer leashes allow the dogs to move around freely. Shorter leashes give an enhanced amount of control to the dog owner. All kinds of lengths have their own advantages, so you can choose according to your preference. Made with the best-in-class material and superior build, the Primal Pet Gear Dog Leash is strong and sturdy to walk your dog in style with a double-handled design for large dogs. Purchasing a reliable leash for a German Shepherd or any other large dog is a critical step in being a responsible dog parent. It can either be for legal or safety reasons. Regardless, if you are looking to get the most reliable leash for a German Shepherd, here are our top recommendations: 1. This double-handled standard leash has been specifically designed for large dogs. The smaller handle permits you to gain an enhanced administration over your canine in crowded places. Coming to the material, the handles are made with soft padding, making it easier for you to hold them for a long walk. The clip features a thicker thumb release knob. It is constructed with a durable material that prevents it from breaking, even when your dog is pulling the leash. Features: Material: Nylon Type of Handle: Dual We all want the best for our dogs, and when it comes to leashes, this option surpasses all expectations. Even though it comes in a single size, its sturdy material retains its dexterity for all sizes of dogs. Hence, this is the best leash for German Shepherds who like to pull. Pros The nylon material is 2X thicker for more durability. The neoprene handles provide enough comfort. Two handles for extensive usage. It possesses reflective stitching for more safety at night. Cons It is only available in one size. Along with the colors, it has a lot more to offer. The quick thumb knob, petite handle, and cushion-like padding make it one of the best German Shepherd leashes. It features a tangle-free degree swivel splitter that allows the dogs to move freely. It can also be converted into a multi-dog leash by adjusting the length with metal rings. The extender can be used to connect the leash splitter swivel to the waist belt. This makes it easier for you to handle more than one dog without undertaking any extra hassle. Features: Material: Metal Handles: Three This might be the most expensive leash on the list, but the features provided make it worth the cost. It has reflective stitching that prevents any accidents during nighttime. Pros It has three padded handles for extreme comfort. It features three double-sided seams of reflective stitching. It is an expensive option. Bottom Line: The Pet Dreamland hands-free double dog leash might be an upscale alternative, but as it is a double dog leash, you can take its reliability to the bank! Its intricate stitching and firm attachments withstand the toughest pulls from the largest dog s. This German Shepherd leash is made to endure the extreme pressure of pulling. The construction of the leash is unmatchable as it is made to be 2X thicker. Despite having such a rugged material, the leash is light in weight. The safety clip and D-ring work effortlessly with any dog collar or harness. On top of that, there are two seems of luminous reflective threading that makes the leash identifiable, even in the darkest evenings. Features: Length: 6 ft Material: Nylon This leash has the capability to combat all kinds of heavy pulling and shoving. If such endurance is available at such a low price, you must not miss this opportunity. The sturdy material and perfect length make this the best leash for medium to large breed dogs. Pros Safety is ensured due to reflective stitching. The material is resistant to water. It comes with a D-ring. It is an affordable option. Cons The finishing of the ring is inadequate. Bottom Line: The Paw Lifestyles extra heavy-duty dog leash is for all those who are on a tight budget. Even with such a cheap price, this is a qualitative option because of its material. Dutchy Brand Heavy-Duty Training Dog Leash The Dutchy Brand heavy-duty training dog leash works like a charm for both kinds of dogs- ones who are obedient and the ones who like to pull. As it comes in two sizes with different layering, this leash can be used for small as well as adult dogs. The reflective stitching adds a touch of safety, especially during late evening walks. It is easier to hold this leash for a longer period as the handles are made with soft padding. The length of the leash is appropriate to handle or even train puppies. When it comes to appearance, it is available in vibrant colors that do not fade. It helps in preventing twisting or tangling. Features: Length:- 6 ft Material:- Weather-proof Nylon The quality that makes it the best leash for strong dogs is its robust built and material. But besides that, this leash will work perfectly for a long period of time. Pros There is an option for different sizes according to the layering. It has reflective stitching available in bright colors. The heavy-duty nylon leash does not get frayed. Bottom Line: The Dutchy Brand heavy-duty training dog leash will come in handy for a long period due to its reliable nylon material. Moreover, it also excels in terms of appearance with its collection of bright colors. It features shock-absorption technology that prevents any sudden shocks or jolts. It comes with a thick rope, metallic hook, elastic bungee, and leather joints. Such a collection makes it difficult for large breeds like German Shepherds to pull or jolt their owners. Along with providing stability from startling pulls, the reflective stitching makes the leash detectable at night. The length keeps an ideal distance between you and your dog, giving them the freedom to explore their surroundings.

Boston Boxer Highlights Boston Boxers are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Boston Terrier or Boxer parents. The main colors of Boston Boxers are black, brown, fawn, blue, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors, like in a pied or brindle pattern. Boston Boxers are known to be a good choice for families with children. Always supervise playtime. The Boston Boxer is a highly energetic mixed breed. If left alone for too long or without any sort of stimulation, this energy can manifest in unwanted destructive behaviors. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. When it comes to other pets, Boston Boxers can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Boston Boxer History The Boston Boxer mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Boston Terriers and Boxers in the late s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to keep the friendly and energetic spirit of the Boxer but in a smaller, Boston Terrier size. They continued to create Boston Boxers as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Boston Boxer got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide the Boston Boxer is the dog for you. Be sure to check your local shelters, look up Boston Boxer or Miniature Boxer rescues, or check with breed-specific Boxer or Boston Terrier rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Boston Boxer Size Since the Boston Boxer is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Boston Terrier and Boxer parents, you can expect your Boston Boxer to be on the small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 22 to 55 pounds and range in height from 15 to 23 inches from the shoulder. However, many can be larger or smaller than average. The Mini Boxer can be somewhat hesitant around strangers, which is why it is very important to socialize your Boston Boxer as early as possible to make sure they are people-friendly. These dogs are prone to attaching to one particular family member, and they can become somewhat protective of them. Even with their protective tendencies, most Boston Boxer enthusiasts say their dogs are complete goofballs. The Boston Boxer is also a highly energetic mixed breed, so they are best-suited with people who can keep up with the pace. Some of the more common health problems Boston Boxer suffer from include: heart murmurs. Lifespan Sociability Boston Boxer dogs are very popular, resulting in many breeders. We recommend searching for as many as possible to find the perfect puppy before you make your decision. Always ask a breeder to show you the facilities before making any payment. In many cases, you can find a breeder that is willing to sell you a puppy at a reduced cost, but we must caution against prices that are too good to be true, as unscrupulous breeders often create these puppies in unsafe environments known as puppy mills. The best way to fight puppy mills is not to buy their puppies. You can always ask your local shelter if they have a Boxer mix that resembles the Boston Boxer. They are athletic and can run fast and jump quite high and will maintain a fast pace for extended play sessions before tiring. They quickly become attached and protective of their owners and are wary of strangers who might cause them to become aggressive and bark. However, they generally get along with other household pets and small yard animals like bunnies and squirrels. Boston Boxers are sensitive to their environment and prefer a set, predictable schedule, and they can be stubborn if you change things up too quickly. They are very intelligent and easy to train, as long as they think they are in charge. They love the company and will remain at your side most of the day. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are very friendly, energetic, and playful. They get along well with pets including, cats and other dogs. They like to play with children and will provide each other with unlimited amounts of entertainment. Boston Boxers are intelligent enough to follow orders and behave and will even learn tricks and guard the house while you are away. They will require at least one family member to take them out for long walks, though, and these are high maintenance in the exercise department, requiring at least one hour of running and jumping each day. If you live in the city, it can be challenging to find enough room, and you will likely require access to a park or trail. They are even more friendly if you socialize them early and get them used to other animals, but even so, this breed rarely gets aggressive toward another animal. This food should be high-quality without any harmful chemicals or preservatives. High-quality dog food will contain meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits, according to the American Kennel Club. You can expect to take your Boston Boxer for a long walk every day, and on some days, you may need a second walk. You can expect to walk at least eight miles a week spread out over about an hour a day, every day, for the next several years when purchasing a Boston Boxer. In most cases, you will only require patience and a bunch of treats to have your Boston Boxer impressing your friends. To train your pet, simply stand in front of them with a treat ready. Boston Boxers are smart and will know you have it. When they figure it out and sit, give them a treat. Stand them back up and repeat. After several tries, your Boston Boxer will catch on and quickly sit on command. Using the above system, you can teach your dog plenty of tricks, like shaking hands, fetch, rollover, and plenty of others. You can even teach them more complex tricks like retrieving the newspaper with a little practice. They only require occasional brushing and trimming of their nails. But there are a few problems associated with them that you should know about before you make a purchase. Minor Conditions. Light brown, black and brown, white and cream, black, brown and white Suitable for: Active families, families with children Temperament: friendly, alert, affectionate, loving, intelligent, loyal, social, protective Although not recognized by major kennel club registries, these non-aggressive dogs make excellent companions for adults and children alike. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This characteristic makes them quite similar to other dogs. Miniature Boxers are also known for their sociability and desire to be around others as they dislike being alone. Their lifespan can be anywhere from years with the possibility of certain health conditions developing during the course of their life. Overall, Miniature Boxers can be trained to be excellent household pets. They are best described as being intelligent, friendly, affectionate, alert, loving, playful, gentle, loyal, protective, and social. Miniature boxers are seen as an excellent choice for a family pet because of their friendly and protective nature. Keep in mind that Miniature Boxers can become verbal and aggressive when they meet a stranger and associate it with a sense danger to their human family. However, once they are assured that there is no danger, they will go back to their usual behavior. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They can prove to be a great addition to the household for people from all walks of life including active families, novice dog owners, singles, couples, and active retirees. For kids, having a Miniature Boxer will give them the opportunity to learn practical life lessons about responsibility, patience, and compassion. These high-energy dogs have no issues getting along with other dogs so long as they are properly trained and socialized. The training process begins in the Miniature Boxers first few years of life so by the time they are a bit grown, they will have no issues interacting with others and being social. Furthermore, Miniature Boxers that have been trained get along well with family cats and other animals. This is a great perk because if you have more than one pet in your house, you will not have to worry about your Miniature Boxer getting into a fight or injuring the other ones. Are affected by skin infections and other health issues. Spend a lot of time indoors under artificial light. Boston Boxers Are Smart Boston Boxers display an above-average intelligence, especially regarding instinctive intelligence. In a study [1] conducted on breeds, Stanly Coren [2] analyzed three types of dog intelligence: Instinctive intelligence Adaptive intelligence Working and obedience intelligence The results placed Boston Terriers in 54th place and Boxers in 48th place. This means the mix between them is somewhere in between. They are family oriented and show high levels of tolerance for the unpredictable behavior of children. Their patient and loving nature also make them good around children. Still, dogs should generally not be left alone with children. Supervision is essential to preventing accidents. They do also have a predisposition for aggressive behavior. Boston Boxers are somewhat adaptable, but they like a daily schedule. This involves eating and exercising at specific hours. When their routine or environment changes, Boston Boxer Terriers become stressed. But, they adapt to new conditions fairly fast. It will end up stressed and sad. They need constant mental stimulation as their parent breeds evolved with a purpose. Even though the Boston Boxer is bred for companionship, they like to solve puzzles and play with mentally stimulating toys. They also love learning new tricks and helping out. To keep them happy, try involving them in your daily activities and teach them how to help. Boxer Bostons get bored easily and become frustrated if they are not engaged. If this happens, they end up developing behavioral issues, such as barking. While hunting, both Boston Terriers and Boxers were taught to be aggressive. Luckily, they were trained for hunting aggression, not killing aggression. In , researchers analyzed the aggressive behavior related to fear in German Shepherds and Boxers [3]. They concluded that both breeds display the same levels of fear-aggressive behavior when they sense a threat. Boston Terriers were bred for pit fights, which made the part of their brain responsible for aggression more evolved. A recent study [4] suggests that the purpose of a dog influences how their brain evolves. They then pass these traits to their offspring. Boxer Bostons inherit a predisposition for aggressive behavior from both parents. This can be altered with training and socialization. This mixed breed has a longer history but the breeding was unintentional before .The time of its first occurrence is unknown. Their parents are the English Terrier and the English Bulldog. The initial purpose of Boston terriers was to take part in pit fights. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .In , it took first place. Boxer Origin The Boxer dog was initially bred in Germany in the late eighteen hundreds. The initial purpose of Boxers was bull baiting and controlling cattle. During World War 1, Boxers were also used by the military: Guard dogs.

He must possess the instinctive drive, resilience and self-confidence in order to be suitable as a companion, watchdog, protection, service and herding dog. Stock Coat normal : The topcoat should be as dense as possible, straight, harsh and close lying. It should be short on the head, including the inside of the ears, the front of the legs, and on the feet and toes; it is a little longer and heavily coated on the neck. The hair lengthens on the back of the legs to the pasterns or hock joints; and on the back of the thighs, it forms moderate breeching. Extended Breed Standard of the German Shepherd Dog - Page 14 of 19 Long Stock Coat Long Coat : The topcoat should be long, soft and not close fitting, with feathering on the ears and legs, bushy breeches and bushy tail forming flags below. It should be short on the head including the inside of the ears, the front side of the legs, on the feet and toes, it is longer and heavily coated on the neck, almost forming a mane. The hair lengthens on the back of the legs to the pasterns or hock joints, and on the back of the thighs, it forms distinct breeching. Quality first Responsible Breeding Practices Our German Shepherd Dog for sale are an elite collection of German Shepherd dogs that come from a variety of bloodlines, have varying colors and are perfect for either companionship or show competitions. Our dogs are truly what sets us apart from the competition and provides the ideal setting for anyone to find the German Shepherd that they want for their family. What makes our German Shepherd Dog for sale unique is that they are bred from elite, champion bloodlines that have been successful for generations in providing families with German Shepherds that they can be confident in. Our German Shepherd Dog for sale are bred responsibly and in a way that ensures long-term health. In addition to their bloodline history, our dogs are also socialized to ensure they are comfortable in multiple situations and a variety of people. If you want a dog that is perfectly malleable and will be easy for you to train while interacting with your family, our dogs are a great source. See Our Breading Dogs Our people Another characteristic that sets us apart from all the rest is our people. We are extremely passionate about German Shepherd Dog for sale and at the most basic level, our goal is to raise happy, healthy dogs that are well acclimated to people and training. German Shepherds are very particular breed and are one of the most loyal, but we also know that German Shepherds are easily trained, and intelligent breeds out there. We love connecting people with these magnificent animals and it shows in our quality of work with German Shepherds. Our values Our values are simple and easy to understand. We care about our dogs, their health, and their well-being. We care about the people that we work with and their mission to get a German Shepherd for their family. In everything we do, the goal is to perform these two functions as well as possible. You can always count on us to act in accordance with these values.

We have answers. Our goal is to cut out all the adverts from dodgy dealers, and introduce you directly to breeders and businesses with the best German Shepherd puppies for sale Fort Worth and all across the States. All you need to do is find your dream puppy and then send their breeder a message. Are there any Fort Worth German Shepherd puppies for sale right now? We recommend getting in touch with a breeder right away when you see your dream puppy, as German Shepherds can get reserved incredibly quickly. We only work with companies and breeders who can meet all the criteria set out in our Breeder Pledge. That means they provide five-star service, regular updates, and all the health records for your new puppy. Do you have the cheapest German Shepherds for sale Fort Worth? When starting your puppy search, we always recommend focusing on the health of a puppy, rather than their price. Here at Uptown we love shelter dogs, and know that where you find your new dog from will be a very personal decision. We suggest making an appointment for your puppy at your local vet and taking a copy of their records with you. Is it enough to walk German Shepherd puppies Fort Worth, or do they need more exercise? Energetic off-leash time will help them use up that energy, plus training sessions and plenty of games will make sure your German Shepherd gets to use their brain too. How big will a German Shepherd for sale Fort Worth grow? Once your puppy is fully grown, they will be a pretty large dog. As a general rule, females will be slightly smaller, with the breed standard stating they should stand 22 - 24 inches tall, and weighing 50 - 70 pounds. Males will be larger, so somewhere between 65 - 90 pounds, and 24 - 26 inches tall. What will a Fort Worth German Shepherd for sale be like to train? These dogs love the challenge of learning agility, advanced obedience, and more. Dogs in our program are in foster homes private homes of volunteers and treated like one of our own. We do NOT have a shelter. The advantages of having our rescued GSDs in private homes is that we interact with them frequently and have insight into the personalities and likes and dislikes. Our volunteers give freely of their time, money, and affection to save these animals. Please keep in mind that they are ALL volunteers - no one gets paid, and we all have full-time jobs, families, and lives too. Please be patient if we cannot answer you immediately - we do strive to respond within hours to all inquiries. German Shepherds GSDs are loving and loyal companions, who provide comfort and security to those privileged enough to share their friendship and love. All of our rescued GSDs are spayed or neutered, are current on vaccinations, and are tested for heartworms, lyme disease, and ehrlichia. All of our animals are on heartworm preventative. Your assistance will allow us to keep saving these wonderful canine companions. We couldn't do it without you. Our neighbor is a trainer for them! We are just beginning our therapy dog training journey and Dusty has already made such progress. Both Luke and Felicity took extra time and care to thoughtfully respond to any and all of my questions. I've tried other training formats in the past and nothing beats having a trainer in my own home to be able to individualize the training to my family's needs. I highly recommend this group! Winnie struggles with dog reactivity so at first the idea of taking her to a group class full of dogs sounded like a nightmare. Both Kyler and Jordan have been great! They are so friendly and familiar with each dog in the group which helps me feel confident they know exactly what my dog needs to be challenged. They both welcome questions after class and are a constant support for both Winnie and my other dogs at home. Thank you Dog Training Elite! He is great to work with. Lulu learned respect quickly. I would highly recommend him. His dog Atlas was such a sweet dog and very well trained. Especially our trainer Jordan and Atlas! He took all the time to get to know Podrick and to help make him feel comfortable and controlled throughout his training sessions. As well as being extremely thorough in making sure my husband and I felt comfortable and ready to take on the training ourselves throughout the week before our next session. Highly recommend them for you and your fur babies! Happy Training! After seeing Duke react to the choke chain we were told to use, I was pretty set on reinforcement-based training alone due to my own fears about causing more harm than good, but we were quickly becoming exhausted with two adolescent sibling pups who needed handfuls of treats all day long to listen to us. When they turned about months old, our lives became extremely stressful, as both dogs, who were always a bit timid despite what we thought was sufficient socialization, developed a significant fear of strangers, reacting toward people and other dogs, and sometimes redirecting onto each other. Once we started guiltily whispering about possibly rehoming at least one of the puppies I started searching again to see if there were any other good options. Each trainer has been great to work with. Kat was a rockstar, walking up and down the ridiculously steep hills on our street for most of an hour with each pup! The perfect combination of calm and confidence, he has major skill in working with both dogs and people. He and his dog Atlas have helped Duke figure out how to curb his alarming frustration shrieks and focus on us when he sees another dog he wants to wrestle. Jordan even tailored one of our sessions in a way that helped us address our concerns about how the puppies react when friends or strangers enter the house, which was far beyond our expectations. Luke did a wonderful job with our pup patient, encouraging, gave our pup breaks when he needed them, playful, and most of all thorough. Our pup is well-trained with his e-collar now. He can be trusted around strangers in crowds, around other dogs, around my students. He is so enjoyable now! This was a great investment. Our dogs are hand picked from top German breeders and are from world class West German bloodlines. We are conveniently located 40 miles from Ft. Worth and approximately one hour from Dallas TX. We are proud of our Kaiser facility and all of our outstanding dogs. Each of them is a special part of our family. It takes a great deal of experience, education, and knowledge about the breed to successfully produce world class German Shepherds. My husband Paul and I work together to ensure the highest breed standards are met. Our goal is to continue to not only meet those standards but to improve the breed. They are hand picked from top German breeders and are imported. They are from top West German bloodlines. Selective breeding program to produce superior offspring. We produce a limited number of litters each year in order to personally assure the very best care possible. Healthy puppies and adult dogs is a top priority to us. Our adult dogs have been DNA tested for degenerative myelopathy. Their hips and elbows have been certified as normal. We do a great amount of education with our new puppy owners regarding GSD growth and development, health maintenance, the importance of ongoing socialization and many other important topics about the GSD breed. We make it a practice to stay in touch with our puppy owners for ongoing education and support. We love to see our pups grow into amazing adult dogs as part of a loving family home! We also have a professional trainer available. She has worked with many of our puppies and their new families with outstanding results. She is warm, patient and loves what she does. She is careful and has a loving touch for her puppies; each one captures her heart. She has been extremely helpful to us when we have not been certain about next steps for our pup. Kaiser is not a puppy factory, but a caring, loving, thoughtful, and well read about the German Shepherd breed. So grateful for Terri and Kaiser pups!

Crafted for a fellow pet parent and features natural sweet potato treats, double-sided flannel bandana, an adorable, personalized bone-shaped ID tag, spray cologne, a handpoured Lemon Chiffon non-toxic soy candle to eliminate the odor exclusively made for this dog themed gift box! The gift box can be engraved with the dog's name and artwork - something really special that will take any gift to the next level! Perfect for storing keepsakes or can be repurposed as a stylish cache for anything special. Box size - 12x10x5". Order multiple boxes shipping to a single address, please contact us at info duskylark. We will add a handwritten tag with the recipient name on the shipping box to make sure that each gift box finds its owner. In case the recipient has some food sensitivities, please be sure to read all ingredients and allergens. Allergens: milk. Gift boxes ship within days. Each gift box goes out in a shipping box with air bubble wrapping so your order arrives at the final destination in the most pristine condition. No packing slip or invoice is included in the shipping box. Receipt will be directly emailed to you. Please note that we work with small-batch and local artisan businesses so certain items might become unavailable on occasion and without a lot of notice. In the event a product is unavailable at the time of your order, we reserve the right to substitute an item for a similar item of equal or greater value. This adds to the uniqueness and beauty of each gift box. Boxes are not painted or stained in any way, so the wood will show natural markings. Beautiful and functional, Bella Bowls come with a removable rubber base that makes them dishwasher safe, eliminates noise and prevents spills. Bella Bowls combine an attractive poly-resin exterior with a veterinarian-recommended stainless interior. Our Bella Roma travel bowl in Blue is ideal for easy traveling with your new furry friend. The bowl portion is bisphenol A BPA -free, and the patented design features a collapsible, integrated locking lid to store dry food easily. New Puppy Snacks and Treats Houndations treats in Chicken and Salmon are the perfect reward when teaching your puppy new skills or working to establish a schedule. These puppy treats are soft, small and bite-sized. Each package comes with a free carabiner that allows you to easily attach the kit to a leash or your belt loop for easy access. These trusted goodies are made with care in small batches. It's a must-have for new puppies because it prevents canine bloat and other serious health risks by acting as a simple solution for fast eaters. It has bone-shaped embossing on the surface, features raised edges for maximum spill capacity and cleans easily. Check out our impressive selection of high-quality dog bowls and diners , bones and chews , dog treats and adorable dog gift baskets. If you have cats or fish at home, we have goodies for them as well! Get your pet care packages from Loving Pets and make your pet feel like an important part of the family. Related Products.

Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. Your breeder should be concerned with breeding healthy dogs, rather than focused primarily on selling them. Visit a potential breeder and observe his interactions with his dogs; they should be friendly and relaxed. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Look for breeders who are registered with national organizations such as the American Kennel Club [3] X Research source or with breed-specific organizations such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. Ask the breeder why these two particular dogs were bred. If they have had other litters, ask for references from people who bought those puppies. If you want a gun dog, don't choose a breeder who primarily raises cuddly pets or award-winning show dogs. These breeders will be able to assess puppies more accurately for the qualities you're seeking. Look for quantifiable measures. For example, select breeders with litters from parents who have hunt test or field trial scores if you want a puppy who will grow into a good hunting dog. These are organizations that work to find homes for Labradors who need a good home. While these organizations often have many adult and even senior dogs who need homes, they also place puppies. Charities or non-profits may offer Labrador puppies for auction as a means of raising funds. Because these auctions are often conducted without appropriate legal oversight and because they encourage rash decisions about pet ownership, they are opposed by groups such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. That sweet ball of fluff who will be your walking buddy, later snuggling up on the couch together. After all, your pup will probably be with you for a dozen years or more. So he has to be a great fit. It should never be a hasty decision. But it should also be FUN! That brings us to the question: how to choose the perfect puppy? Read on! You picture fun romps in the field, playing frisbee, and showing little Max off to all of your friends. But before getting a puppy, there are so many practical things to review in deciding whether to even get a puppy. My first dog as an adult was a shih tzu named Cuddles. My husband and I had discussed getting a dog for a while. We both worked and knew that the pup would take up a lot of time. Not to mention the expenses associated with a dog. But I saw the little gold and white week-old ball of fluff and was smitten. Luckily, I had a family member who could take her out to potty and exercise her during the day. In choosing your new pup, the following considerations are important. Are You Active or a Couch Potato? Can You Afford a Puppy? A puppy is more than the initial purchase. That can be a drop in the bucket compared with the lifetime costs of owning a dog. There are bills for: food and treats; chews; vets; crates ; beds; collars, harnesses, and leashes; training classes; dog walkers; dog daycare; pet insurance; enzymatic cleaners ; grooming—and more. These can really add up. You may decide not to get pet health insurance and not need pet walkers or doggie daycare, but expenses can really add up over the years. Do You Have Children? Children and pets can be a great match. You want to make sure that you choose the right canine. A toy breed may not be the right choice for a toddler. A tiny dog may inadvertently be injured by such a young child. We raised puppies for years before we had kids so we had a good idea of expectations for our puppy. If you have very young kids a rambunctious Lab may not be the right choice. Do You Have Other Pets? You need to take into consideration any other pets you have. If you have a senior dog, for example, a young puppy may not be a great choice. Are you gone too many hours to take care of a puppy? A friend of mine who works hour days decided not to get a puppy. The pup would have been alone too long. A puppy needs attention and potty breaks. Of course we need to work. You may be able to have someone come in and exercise, feed, and potty the pup. And give him attention during the day. As I discussed, you may need help with the new puppy. If you have reliable relatives or friends who can regularly help out, it can make getting a puppy much more realistic. Or you can hire pet sitters or walkers to help out. If you live in small quarters, a large, rambunctious breed may not be best. As young puppies, goldens can be wild, even inside. Of course, with a sufficient amount of mental stimulation and physical exercise, you can make it work. After Dalmations came out, everyone wanted one. Dalmations are high-drive, independent dogs. I was called to work with a family who got a Dalmation puppy that was wrecking their house. The minute walk the pup was getting was just a warm-up for the dog. We set up an exercise and training program for the puppy and the family was able to keep him. Do your research. The American Kennel Club lists purebred dogs and their needs and health profiles. Before choosing a certain breed, consider the following. Large or Small? You should have an idea what size dog you want. Conversely, if you want a frisbee or jogging partner, a chihuahua would be a bad choice. Why Do You Want a Dog? This may seem like a silly question. Most people want a dog for companionship. But you may have additional things in mind. You may want a jogging partner. Or a dog to do therapy work with. Or to show in obedience. Grooming Needs Would you love spending time every day brushing and combing a dog? Exercise Needs As you know, some breeds need a lot of exercise. We also do obedience training and she plays with puzzle toys. Lifespan Of course we want our pups to live forever. But some breeds generally live longer than others. Generally, larger—especially giant breeds—have shorter lives than their smaller counterparts. Friendliness or Independence Of course within any breed and litter you can have a wide array of personalities. But there are certain breed characteristics that can help guide your choice of which breed you want. I have dogs at both ends of the spectrum. My golden retriever Riley loves everyone and would do great in any setting. But my Lhasa apso Ralphie—true to breed—is more discriminating when making friends. So Riley would be great with well-behaved children and would love to be hugged by them. Health Problems Any dog can have unforeseeable health problems. But some breeds are likely to have more health problems than others. For example, bulldogs, pekingese, and pugs are among the breeds that are more likely to have breathing problems and overheat. Breed Types Of course there are many breeds and mixes to choose from. If you get your dog from a breeder, consider what lines your puppy comes from. If from working lines, the dog will likely be more intense than if from show lines. All of the below classes of dogs can make great companions in the right setting. Herding dogs were bred to herd, of course. Popular examples are border collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland sheepdogs. Generally, they require more exercise than some breeds like toy breeds. And they may become destructive if left to their own devices. Also, some bark excessively and may not be good in an apartment setting. Sporting dogs were bred to hunt. They have a lot of energy and need regular, invigorating exercise. Popular examples are golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, and cocker spaniels. Just like other working-type dogs, hounds have almost limitless energy. So attention to you may be an issue. Also, some bay when excited. Popular examples are beagles, dachshunds, and greyhounds. Dogs from the working group are alert, intelligent, strong, and bred to work with people to perform various tasks. Some were bred to guard property, to pull sleds, or to perform water rescue. Some popular examples are Doberman pinschers, huskies, and rottweilers. They require not only exercise and precise training so that their natural instincts are kept in check. Terriers are feisty and energetic and vary greatly in size. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, So a squirrel they see on their walk will be very alluring to them—and, without training, they may almost pull you off your feet trying to get to it. Some popular examples are Parson Russell terriers, Staffordshire terriers, or West Highland whirte terriers. Pit bulls which is a generic name for many types of terriers are also in this group. Toy breeds were generally bred as amiable companions. They may make great lap dogs and have big personalities despite their small stature. Shih tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas are some very popular examples. Nonsporting group dogs are a catch-all group with various sizes and personalities. Some popular examples are bulldogs, French bulldogs, bichon frise. There are so many options. You may want a certain breed. So a breeder or rescue of that breed should meet your needs. Just make sure that the breeder is a good one. Good breeders do so to improve their breed. Bad ones care only about making money. They do any necessary health certifications. They put a lot of time into their litters socializing them to new experiences and people. Good breeders are invested in their litters and will help you choose the right puppy for you. They stand behind their dogs for life and will readily answer your questions and take the dog back if you need to give him up. You can get referrals to such breeders through breed clubs, dog clubs, and resources such as the American Kennel Club. A reputable, good breeder also will have questions for you regarding your family, work, home, activity level, and reason why you want a dog or their breed. The pups will also have been checked by a veterinarian and been given the appropriate vaccinations for their age. There are also breed rescues that rehome dogs of their chosen breed. However, they rarely have puppies. Shelters and rescue groups can also be great places to get a puppy. Many use foster homes, where a puppy or litter of puppies are located. Foster parents get to know the puppies and can help determine whether any particular puppy is a good fit for you. Many rescue groups try to place a puppy in the best home possible. When I adopted my Aussie mix puppy Mille, the rescue group would adopt her out only to people who had experience with herding breeds. Many shelters are first come-first served. In order to place as many dogs as possible, they will adopt out a puppy to the first person who wants him—barring any obvious reason not to. How to Choose a Puppy from a Litter There are many tests that can be given to determine whether a puppy is a good fit. This assumes you have a litter to choose from. There is a range of temperaments and personalities in each litter, No puppy may perfectly meet every test below. But look at the big picture. So, in addition to your own observations, you can bring a friend along to have another opinion about the litter. Or you could hire a trainer to help you choose. Overall, as a companion, a middle-of-the-road dog usually works out best. Also, a reputable breeder or good rescue group or shelter who knows the puppy can help guide you in making your decision. See the Mother and Littermates If you can, watch the puppy and his littermates and mother interact. The puppy you choose should be able to take a proper correction and back off then re-engage. The breeder should have the mother available. Check Out the Puppy The puppy should look healthy and alert, not lethargic. Inspect his coat and skin. He should be well-fed with a little fat around his rib cage. The pup should run and walk normally, without a limp. A puppy should engage with people and be curious, not slink away or cower. A scared puppy will probably be more difficult to socialize and train. Will he follow you if you walk away? Clap your hands and make a kiss sound. Will he come towards you or run for the hills? Hold Puppy on His Back Hold him on his back for about 30 seconds. Ideally, he should briefly struggle and relax. When I had two sheltie puppies to choose from and one fought constantly when held and the other struggled briefly, then settled, I chose the latter. I had already gotten another dog from this great breeder. I wanted a dog who was a companion but who I also wanted to show in competitive obedience. My choice turned out to be the right one. Duffy was a great dog to live with and became a nationally-ranked obedience dog. He also did agility for fun and was a therapy dog who visited a hospital on a weekly basis. Hold the puppy and touch and gently open his mouth. Look in and gently rub his ears. .Gently touch each paw, even putting slight pressure on them. The puppy should be comfortable with these activities. He may slightly struggle. But a puppy who really fights against such touching, even to the point of mouthing or growling may turn out to be difficult to groom, handle, and pet. Pet the dog calmly from head to toe. He should enjoy it and relax. Pick the Puppies Up If you hold each puppy around the middle, ideally he would be relaxed and not struggle. Also, cradle the puppy up against you. Ideally, he should relax and like the attention. He may startle at first but should rebound and even go and check out what made the noise. Social Dominance Fall to the ground at least a few feet away from the puppy. He should want to come over and see what happened. Even if you like the look of a certain puppy, he may not be the right puppy for you. Consider the above factors as well as the following when choosing a puppy. The dogs live in rabbit-type hutches or dark barns. They receive no proper socialization, vet care, or human contact. There are also small back-yard breeders which, essentially, are puppy mills on a smaller scale. The mothers are bred at each heat and have horrible lives. Dogs sold in pet shops and through the internet usually come from them. Of course, do your own research because no one will admit they are a puppy mill. But two puppies may bond too much with each other. And to train, socialize, and exercise each puppy requires a lot of time, energy, and money. The dogs in shows have been highly trained and specially selected for their jobs. Then pick a great breeder, rescue, or shelter. Final Thoughts Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time! Do you have a puppy? How did you decide to choose him? Please let us know in the comment 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 had wanted a female red lab, none were available. A trainer near me was getting a second dog from a renowned breeder in Ireland and she asked if he had a puppy for diabetic service dog work. Both her pup and my pup flew over from Ireland together. A pup with a desire to work, a willingness to please, and a calm demeaner. I received a cute ball of fluff, a male yellow lab pup with red ears and red highlights. A good breeder is able to match you with a dog that will meet your needs, give them all the information you can. I never met the breeder, but my pup arrived at 10 weeks old already already on his way to being well socialized, exposed to sounds, not nervous, liked the vacuum, fireworks are not a problem, loves the motorcycle sounds, handled all sorts of traffic noise at 3 months. We started his public training at 3 months old and he handled it like a champ. I had to buy a motorcycle with a sidecar as he always wanted to go out when the bikes were started up, so at 9 months he was in the sidecar with Rex Specs goggles. Did I mention he loves to travel and meet me people, when his tail wags which is all the time his whole body wags. With nearly two decades of experience, she specializes in working with dogs and their owners on behavior issues ranging from severe anxiety, reactivity, as well as aggression and fear-based problems. She works with all dogs at Hope2K9 so that they are fully trained before adoption, and provides lifelong support to dog owners after adoption. There are 12 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. If you're looking to add a smart, adorable, and super friendly dog to your household, then a labrador is a great choice! These pups make amazing pets—but how can you be sure you're selecting the perfect puppy to add to your family? Don't worry, we've got you covered. We'll help you decide what you want in a dog, and then we'll explain how to adopt or buy from a breeder. To learn everything you need to know about how to select a lab, read on! All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Labs crave company and stimulation, so it is important for you to spend lots of time with your Lab and to invest time and energy in training your Lab. Be honest with yourself about how much time and energy you will be able to invest in your dog. Think about your how much time you spend away from home. If you are often not home due to work or other lifestyle factors, then a Lab may not be the ideal pet for you. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Determine whether you are willing and able to train a dog. Labs are easy to train and they enjoy the stimulation. Before you decide to get a dog, think realistically about how much time you will be able to devote to training your Lab. If you do not plan to train your dog due to time or energy constraints, then a dog may not be the best choice. Go to source Consider other lifestyle factors. Puppies are hard to train and they require lots of time as well. Before you decide to get a puppy, think about your lifestyle and the amount of time that you can devote to raising a puppy. For example, will you be willing to get woken up every couple of hours in the middle of the night if your puppy is crying? Will you be able to manage if your puppy chews up one of your favorite pairs of shoes? Are you willing to clean up urine and feces accidents during the housetraining process? If not, then consider adopting an adult dog. Training your Labrador from a young age creates a fantastic bond between the two of you and you will get to enjoy watching your pet grow and mature. Some of the positives of taking on an adult dog is that they are often already house broken and may even know some basic commands, such as sit and stay. Therefore, if you don't have the time or desire to housetrain a dog, then adopting an adult could be the best option for you. Also, some dogs may not have been well-socialized and may get spooked by certain things such as other dogs, strangers, etc. Consider whether you have the necessary training skills to correct these problems should you encounter them. Gender is not a big deal unless you already have a dog. If you own a dog already, then getting a dog of the opposite gender will provide the best chance of harmony between your pets. Female dogs often more easygoing, but Labs are such a relaxed breed that this doesn't really matter too much. Regardless of the gender of your dog, make sure that you spay or neuter the dog unless you intend to breed it. They have many roles in society, ranging from their origins as gun dogs retrieving game, to assistance dogs for the visually impaired. If you are looking for certain characteristics in a dog for working purposes, then be sure to source a purebred dog from a breeder who raises dogs with the characteristics you require. The most common Lab colors are black, yellow, and chocolate. All colors of Labradors are easy to train, but chocolate Labradors do have a reputation for being more disobedient than their yellow or black cousins. However, there is much debate among breeders and Lab owners about this reputation. Adopting a Lab from a shelter or rescue group is a great thing to do, as these dogs are often loving, loyal animals who through no fault of their own have ended up in a rescue. Most dog breeds have fans who work to ensure that special dog breeds, such as Labradors, have good homes. Check to see if there are any Labrador rescue groups in your area with dogs available for adoption. You may be able to get contact information for local rescue organizations from your local humane society, veterinarian's office, or pet shop. Keep in mind that dogs who end up in rescue programs are not there because they are bad. Owners may give up their dogs because of life circumstances such as a divorce, job loss, or physical condition. If you are nervous about adopting a dog, keep in mind that many adoption agencies offer or even require a trial period for qualified adopters. During the trial period, you will be able to take the dog home for a week to see if you are a good match for each other. Spend some time with him or her before you decide if this is the dog for you. Shelters often have special areas for prospective pet owners and their family members people and pets to get to know a potential new member. It is important to find a responsible breeder in order to get a healthy, well-socialized Lab. By seeking out a responsible breeder, you can also avoid supporting breeders who do not take good care of their dogs. You can find a responsible breeder by checking with your local American Kennel Club. If you decide to go through a breeder, make sure that you visit the breeder and see the pups with the mother. Never buy a puppy if you are not allowed to see the mother, no matter what the excuse. Do not encourage this immoral trade by purchasing their pups. It is a good idea to visit a few different local breeders before deciding who you want to buy your puppy from. Do not buy a puppy from the first breeder you visit. You may even want to expand your search outside of your own local area in order to find the best breeder and puppy for your needs. If a breeder does not allow you to visit and wants to meet up somewhere else, then this should be a red flag to stay away from this breeder. Never have a puppy shipped. Shipping puppies is very stressful on them and often results in a sick, frightened puppy when you pick them up from the airport. It is a good idea to get to know your potential puppy before you commit. If the breeder does not want you to meet the dog before you commit to buying it, then that should be a warning sign that something is wrong. Try some basic commands see how he responds. See if the puppy is curious and comes to investigate this is a good sign or if he cowers in a corner this is a sign of timidity. Watch how he interacts with the other puppies as well. He should seem playful and energetic. A puppy that has been raised by a responsible breeder will seem healthy, energetic, and well-fed. If the puppy seems lethargic, malnourished, or has other signs of illness like a runny nose, cough, or skin sores, then that will indicate that the puppy is in poor health. Do not purchase a puppy from this breeder. If you are getting your dog from a breeder, ask to see the papers for the mother and father of the puppy. Be aware that Labradors are prone to a number of hereditary diseases which are passed down along the generations. Responsible breeders will try to eliminate these diseases, which involves the breeder submitting their breeding stock to genetic tests and radiographs to work out if they are carriers or at risk of transmitting, certain conditions. Keep in mind that these tests cost the breeder money, so you will need to pay more for a puppy from screened parents. The payback is that the puppy is less likely to develop serious conditions such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, or eyesight problems. Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. I am new to this forum so should introduce myself. As you can imagine its left an uneasy quietness to the house so we are looking for her successor In our home its my wife, myself and our 8 yr old daughter and 6 yr old son. He says he breeds only for good disposition only as any good breeder should and our quick meeting with parents it looked to be accurate. The dad was in a large outdoor kennel and looked to be very friendly. She did a quick snarl when we first got near which I have to give a pass as i'm sure she's just being protective, right? After the breeder told her its OK she calmed right down. Anyways, there are 4 females that we get first pick of when we go back. Of course training and exercise play a huge role in this so that we'll have covered. Does it still hold true that when you are looking at the liter to see which ones come to you and let you hold them on their back and settle after a short period to determine good nature rather than overly squirmy? Such a big decision i just wanted to make sure we do this right. We were so spoiled with our last pup its hard to compare! Tweet on Twitter Buying your first dog can be a life changing decision. Choosing the right dog will help to ensure that your life changes in a good way. There are some wise precautions you might like to consider before viewing any litter of Labrador puppies. Or choosing which one to bring home with you. Buying a Puppy from a Friend It is often tempting to buy a puppy in an opportunistic moment of enthusiasm. Perhaps because you happen to hear of a friend who has a litter that will be ready to go to their new homes soon. Or a neighbour who has a gorgeous litter of puppies that you fall in love with when you pop over to admire. But the puppy that lives just around the corner, and the puppy that is going to bring you years of pleasure, may be two very different things. It is a really good idea to put your sensible hat on at times like these, and to approach the whole business of selecting your puppy in business-like way. The first decision to make is to choose what type of Labrador you wish to end up with. Which characteristics are most important to you, and will help him to fit into your family best. Choosing a Working or Show dog? Those bred for work, and those bred for the show ring. The working bred dog is generally very responsive and easy to train. But he may also fall short of what you expect in appearance. If you are hoping to get involved in gundog fieldwork, or agility at some point it is important to purchase a field or working bred labrador. Of course choosing a dog is so much more than just weighing up the pros and cons. There are now a number of hereditary diseases in labradors that can be tested for. Routine testing under these schemes is gradually growing in popularity for a number of conditions. These include hip dysplasia, elbow displasia, and a number of inherited eye diseases. However, there are still many puppies available for sale in the UK whose parents have not been tested, or that have been tested and fall below the necessary standard for breeding. Amazingly, in the UK, the Kennel Club will still register puppies from parents that have poor hip scores. Hopefully this will change in the future. You will need to read up on these to make sure you understand what you are looking for. Finding the right dog breeder Knowing where to look for a breeder is not easy. Labrador breeders come in all shapes and forms. At their best breeders are dedicated experts on their breed, who produce a few litters each year of top quality puppies for their own kennels show or field and sell any surplus to quality pet homes. At their worst, breeders are simply puppy farmers who churn out litter after litter with no thought to the health and welfare of either the puppies or their mother. Telling the difference is not always straightforward. In some cases these may be excellent puppies, in other cases they will not. The key to a good litter is a quality female dog with excellent health clearances, put to a compatible quality dog with equally excellent health clearances, and given quality care throughout pregnancy and beyond. The female dog must have a purpose beyond producing puppies, whether that is as show dog, working dog or highly treasured family pet. On the whole, this is more likely to be achieved by an experienced breeder. The Kennel Club in the UK run an accredited breeders scheme, and members agree to meet certain minimum standards. However, there are many excellent breeders who are not members of this scheme so do not dismiss a breeder on these grounds alone. The scheme is not perfect yet, and its standards are not necessarily enforced, as the KC prefers a voluntary approach. If you are inexperienced it is very important that you get some help in finding a breeder. Choosing one from a newspaper advert or from the internet when you know nothing of the source can be a risky decision. If you want to buy a pup from top working parents, then you may find the pups are all spoken for very quickly, long before they are eight weeks old. It can be disheartening to phone advert after advert only to find all the pups are gone. It pays to plan ahead. If you do some research, locate a really nice female dog, and book one of her pups before they are born, you may find the whole process a lot smoother. You may also be able to enjoy visiting and photographing the puppies whilst they are growing. Check the ancestry of the dog If you are buying a Labrador for gundog work, or agility, make sure the parents of the litter you want to view are from working stock, look for a few FTCH and FTW field trial champion and field trial winner in the pedigree. If you are hoping for success in the show ring, you should be looking for CH and SH CH title SH CH is show champion, CH is a show champion with a working certificate which is not a demanding or difficult test of working abilities. Viewing the puppies Some puppies will be raised in the home with the family. This can be ideal, as the pup will have been accustomed to people and the hustle and bustle of family life from the very beginning. Be aware though that not everyone who has a litter of puppies knows what they are doing. Look at how the pups are handled and how clean their quarters are. The pups should smell nice, and look bright and healthy. The litter may have been whelped and raised in kennels. This is also perfectly acceptable provide the breeder has accounted for this. An experienced breeder will have made sure that the pups have had plenty of human contact regardless of where they are living. Again look at the surroundings. A responsible breeder will run a clean and tidy kennels. Always see a puppy with its mother. If possible see the father too. The parents should be friendly and relaxed. The mother may not look her best seven or eight weeks after giving birth, but she should look healthy. Again, if you doubt your ability to make a judgement on a puppy or his parents, take an experienced person with you. Dog or female dog? Until fairly recently male dogs were more popular than female dogs. Fashions come and go, and at the moment, female dogs seem to be in favour. You will hear various claims as to the differences in temperament between them, but most of these contradict each other and it really is a matter of personal taste. The main disadvantage of a female dog is that she will come into season twice a year each year from the age of months until the end of her life. This can be inconvenient. Having your female dog spayed will prevent her coming into season, but the procedure is a major and expensive operation, and recent research has shown a few problems associated with spaying that you will want to consider before making your choice. Because female dogs are currently fashionable, you will probably pay more for a female dog, but as the price of a puppy is such a tiny fraction of what you will spend on her over her lifetime this is probably the least relevant factor. The appearance of a male dog may be more pleasing to some. Males tend to develop a squarer, more chunky head which some owners prefer. The average male will also grow a little taller and weigh a little more than a female. These differences are however fairly minor ones. If you are not sure whether you want a dog or female dog, keep an open mind. At least you will have a wider choice of puppies. Which puppy? If you have booked a puppy in advance from a reputable breeder, there may be little or no choice as to which puppy you have. It is not unusual to find that all puppies due in popular kennels have been booked before birth. If you are keen to buy a dog with plenty of red ink on the pedigree, you may need to do some research and book the pup as soon as the female dog has been mated. If you do get the chance to choose your puppy out of several in a litter, how should you go about it? Puppy Health Having made sure that the parents of the puppy you are viewing have good health clearances is a good start. You still need to make sure your puppy is healthy. A thorough check up by your own vet soon after you get him home will help put your mind at rest. But how can you be sure the puppy you are viewing is not sickly even before you bring him home? Some puppies may be more lethargic than others when you visit, but this may be a reflection of how hard they have been playing before you arrived, rather than how healthy they are. A good breeder will not try and sell an unhealthy puppy and if relevant, will point out any minor defects to you. Puppies are sometimes born with slightly misaligned jaws for example, which may not matter to someone who has no intention of breeding from the puppy or working him, but such a defect should not be concealed from the buyer. Umbilical hernias are not uncommon and can be troublesome. When you go to view a litter of pups it is really important to take someone with experience with you. This is especially important if the breeder is unknown to you and does not come recommended by anyone. Arrange to visit your vet within a day or two of bringing the pup home, and try not to form an attachment until he has been given a clean bill of health. If you have any doubts about the health of the puppy or the litter in general, ask for time to think. This dog will be with you for the next 12 years or more. You will become deeply attached to him or her and serious health problems can be cripplingly expensive to fix. Not to mention very distressing for you both. This needs to be the right decision for you and your family. Whilst health problems in puppies can be devastating the majority of puppies are robust and healthy and providing you take the precautions outlined above, you are unlikely to have any problems. More information on puppies Check out our Labrador Puppies section for more help and advice on choosing your new friend. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was first published on 21st November , and was updated to include new information in March .Readers Also Liked. Normally Lab puppies travel well, find more on this here. For many people it can be stressful not knowing how to pick or why you should pick any specific puppy. We will try to clear things up here so that you have a few criteria to select with. For the most part, the genetics of the purebred Lab puppies in the litter are set once the parents mate. When we choose to keep parents to breed we are choosing the best specimens and mating them with the hope that we are going to be creating even better puppies through the combination of their genes. Improving on weak areas with each litter is what professional breeding is all about. Now that you understand the genetic potential is set, you will work within your litter to try to narrow down the puppy who goes home with you. Keep in mind, that all of the puppies in the litter are of high quality. So, standing over the puppy box containing the puppies have a look without saying anything or doing anything. The puppies will either have different colored collars or different colored ribbons on them to identify them. Each different color corresponds to a unique microchip number implanted in that puppy. What are you looking for? Well, observe which puppies are the most active and the least active. Observe which puppy is bossy and more of a leader, and, which is more of a follower. Are there any outgoing puppies? Are there any shy ones? Please understand that puppies and all dogs for that matter will feed off of the energy of the animals and the humans around them. So, if you bring your children and they are full of energy, talking loudly, excited, etc… then the puppies will pick up on that and imitate their behavior to an extent. We love to see the kids! The vet bills, training, the poop cleaning, nail clipping, taking out to go pee at 6 am, trips to the vet, and so on are yours. All yours! So unless you feel your children have better skills to choose the puppy than you, try to leave them out of it. You want to use the criteria here to select the lab puppy that fits your family the closest. Ok, there are a couple of things I need to say first. On your pick up day and depending on how many puppies are in the litter, your puppies may be sleeping. The good news to this issue is that there will not be a bad puppy in the litter. As professional Labrador Retriever Breeders our primary goal is to create better Labrador Retriever puppies with each litter we produce. Depending on what the issue was with the puppy we would care for them or home them with a person who fully understood any issue present and was willing to care for them. Getting back to selecting your puppy. As you watch over the litter try to narrow it down to two puppies you are interested in and watch them. Look for any excitement, playfulness, shyness, active or lying around, or differences in color, size, or other physical attributes such as tail size, ear size, forehead and snout size, etc…. This means that these dogs are super smart, even tempered, loving and willing to please all because of the Labrador Retriever breed and the selections we make in our breeding program. Training is key to having a well behaved Purebred Lab Retriever puppy. On the day you pick up your puppy it will be normal for the puppies to be on the shy side. Though they have been socialized by 5 or 6 of us they get use to us. So the new sights, smells, sounds etc… that you bring will all be a brand new thing for them. At 8 weeks old they are unsure if these new stimuli are safe and they may be cautious coming to you. Again, all normal. On the other hand, a puppy who comes right up to you with no apprehension may be the one you want. Especially if you are a hunter and you need your dog to work to retrieve game. You should also know that if a puppy runs from its pack to see you it is not choosing you! It could be the more dominant or most curious puppy and it would approach anyone coming to see the litter not just you. Can we pick your lab puppy? Sure we can! The latest research we have read on the topic indicates that how a puppy behaves at 8 weeks old when with its litter has no bearing on the puppy it becomes after you train it properly. This means that for most people the training and socialization you provide is much more important than which puppy you choose. We always suggest picking the most easily trainable puppy and we will be happy to do this for you. For the best explanation on setting yourself up properly to lead your puppy to becoming a well behaved dog, please sign up for the www. A generous discount is available for our clients to help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to train your puppy. So we are happy to offer advice and can absolutely choose your puppy in the event you cannot make it, but doing so on your own would be the best scenario. Another method we frown on is the breeder evaluating a puppy with a tool to grade their personality and then comparing that to a marking tool that you complete to grade yourself. Remember when I said puppies respond differently to different people? Well they have basic emotions similar to that of a two year old. If you are not in the room, and I am evaluating the puppy remember my experience with puppies and your lack of , then how can a score sheet be used to match the two of you together effectively? You need to see the puppy behave with you. So you have it narrowed down to two puppies, compare similar personality traits and physical features as I mentioned earlier. Toss in the fact that they have medium energy and poof! Please understand what you see the puppies doing on pick up day are not how they are going to act for the rest of their lives. Puppies are not born with any knowledge of these things and rather need to be trained to understand your boundaries. For this reason we have focused on breeding smarter puppies generation after generation. At least you have some guidelines to use when you arrive. For example, the largest puppy is not necessarily going to be the biggest one when full grown. At 8 weeks old the biggest puppy has been the one who is the pushiest at the food bowl and eats the most at feedings. This is why 8 weeks is the best time for your Lab puppy to go to bond with their human family. As some puppies get larger in size they can push the other smaller puppies around so size then becomes another factor in the development of your puppy. Take your puppy home at 8 weeks old and you have provided them time with their litter to learn puppy to puppy manners weeks 4 to 8 and you have eliminated the possibility of them being bullied by the larger pups after week 8. The larger pups also will not learn to become overly dominant because there are not smaller ones around them to boss around. What about people who want the runt? The first group feel that because the runt is smaller they will listen better when truly listening is a skill learned through training. And the second group feel that a smaller puppy is sick and weak and will not thrive. Again this is not the case as smaller puppies simply do not have as strong of a food drive than their siblings. The larger issue surrounding the runt is this. Professional Lab Retriever Breeders breed for consistency. It is this consistency in our breeding program that ensures the first picked puppy is of the same high quality as the last picked. So before you arrive to choose your Purebred Lab Puppy, have a couple behavioral qualities in mind and a couple physical qualities. Observe quietly and try not to bring too many people with you so that the puppies only pick up your energy and not the energy of the group. This is the best way to truly observe how the puppy will react to you alone. Narrow it down to a couple and compare them together measuring them against your list of traits. If you make a choice to not train you have to be ready to deal with whatever your Lab decided to become. And one final note. Some people have heard to wipe a blanket where the puppy sleeps or on the mother because the scent will calm the puppy in your home. Think of it this way, if your puppy smells the mother or one of its littermates what does it do next? So a blanket with this scent on it will cue your puppy to look for someone who is likely not coming back. Imagine the frustration of a puppy newly separated from its litter being able to smell them but not find them. We suggest you do not do this to your puppy. Our suggestion to help settle the puppy only if you need to is to put a t shirt into the crate with the scent of the person who they bonded the most to. This is their new pack. Get them accustom to their new pack and the quicker they forget their old pack the easier it will be for them. Love them, set clear guidelines, and enjoy them for years to come. Chocolate Lab with pumpkin.

Wonderful Dogs Ideal family pets Your furry best friend. Burrinjuck Labradoodles is situated less than three hours from Melbourne. Our labradoodles are treasured members of our family. My husband and I, together with our daughter Bree are devoted to our labradoodles and share the responsibilities involved in training, loving and caring for them. The labradoodle puppies that we breed are raised on our lifestyle property. We understand how vitally important the first eight weeks are for the health, well being and social development of your puppy. It is crucial that puppies have multiple opportunities to interact with people from an early age. We devote many hours of quality interaction time with our puppies, as this is how puppies learn about social bond and develop confidence and trust. Our puppies are raised in an optimal environment for mental stimulation and cognitive learning. Puppies have there own playground, filled with play equipment, obstacle courses and novel toys. Your puppy will have the best possible start to life. Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA in dogs is a type of genetic eye disease causing deterioration… Read more View all breed additional tests Clarewood Labradoodles conducts 19 additional tests available for the Australian Labradoodle. It can result in puppies or dogs who collapse after only five to thirty minutes of exercise. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Canine Elliptocytosis Genetic Test Canine Elliptocytosis is a rare genetic disease causing the red blood cells to be abnormally elliptical in shape, rather than round. It generally does not cause a clinical problem to affected dogs, but puppies may be mildly anaemic and smaller than others. There is a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. A DNA test is available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. It is a blood disease resulting in low numbers of very large platelets. Cystinuria Genetic Test This condition mainly affects Newfoundlands although other breeds can be affected. It is a genetic condition which results in the production of kidney and bladder stones. There is a DNA test available to confirm that breeding dogs are not carrying this condition. Degenerative Myelopathy DM Genetic Test This is a disease affecting the spinal cord of older dogs, initially causing wobbliness and eventually hindlimb paralysis. It can affect a wide range of breeds. There is now a DNA test that can indicated if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the dog collapsing after periods of intense exercise, even if they are normally able to cope with lower levels of exercise. There is a DNA test available which can indicate if a breeding dog is carrying this disease. Elbow Dysplasia Physical Test These breeders have had x-rays taken on their breeding dogs to assess the quality of their elbow joints. It causes very dry and crusty skin around the nose that predisposes to infections. There is a DNA test available to determine whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. HUU Genetic Test Hyperuricosuria HUU is a genetic disease that causes a build-up of uric acid in the urine, predisposing to painful bladder and kidney stones. It can occur in a range of breeds. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this disease. It results in the body rapidly overheating and is sometimes fatal. There is now a DNA test available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying this condition. MPS Genetic Test Mucopolysaccharidosis is a genetic lysosomal storage disease that can cause various problems including stunted growth and bone deformities. There are a few different variants of this disease that have been identified in different breeds. For many breeds there are DNA tests available to identify if a breeding dog is carrying the condition. It causes cloudy eyes and potential vision impairment. Affected puppies are small and lack coordination. Within weeks, the puppies may have difficulty holding their head up or standing and may collapse after exertion. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog might be carrying this condition. Narcolepsy Genetic Test Narcolepsy is a genetic disease which causes affected animals to fall asleep suddenly following periods of excitement, such a feeding or play. These dogs might collapse and appear drowsy or might completely fall asleep. They usually grow out of the condition after about one year of age. There is a DNA test available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Affected dogs can experience lethargy, exercise intolerance and severe anaemia. There is a DNA available to identify whether a breeding dog is carrying this condition. Skeletal Dysplasia Genetic Test Skeletal Dysplasia is an inherited form of dwarfism which causes the leg bones to grow much shorter than is proportional for the body. Affected legs will be short and slightly bowed outwards. Often the forelimbs are more affected than the hindlimbs, which can make the condition more difficult to spot in subtle cases. The severity of VWD varies widely between breeds and individuals, ranging from life threatening, through to having no impact on clotting ability. In person puppy pick up Meet the breeder in person for puppy pick ups Ground transport service Supportive of on-the-road pet transport by car or van Domestic air travel by plane Supportive of domestic air transport by plane RightPaw Achievements About the Breeder A little about us I am a farm girl at heart, and absolutely live and breathe for my animals. I have spent my life surrounded by dogs German Shepherds , horses, and cats, and have many many years of experience breeding. When my children were young I struggled to find the right breed and temperament of dog that fit seamlessly into my… Read more Why we got involved in breeding After many many discussions with experienced and reputable breeders and a huge amount of research, I made the decision that I would buy the best temperament and physically put together pups that I could find, and if they worked for my family I would breed them for other families. I knew I couldn't be the only family… Read more Our special touch I have a lot of experience with people who have special needs. I pride myself on my ability to be able to slow the process down and help anyone find the pup that is right for them. I will be realistic in the information I give you, including the… Read more.

We are a home based phantom poodle breeder. Are you new to phantom poodles, or just new to our website? Scroll down to learn about colors, pricing and more. We also breed solid red, black as well as abstract and parti poodles. The colored patches can be ANY color. Abstract Poodle: Characterized by white patches. Here Dolce is shown with her white blaze and small white patch on her chin. Abstract Poodles will often have "Teddy Bear" markings i. Phantom: Artemis is a great example of a phantom, he also happens to be an abstract. Phantoms are characterized by their black and tan markings which are found around eyebrows, muzzle, on the legs, and under the tail. We often say they look like Dobermans. Merle Poodles: Merle genes create quite the stir! This marbled effect is a naturally occurring mutation found in many species such mice, rabbits, dogs, and even cats. The result is a dilution of the underlying base coat color. Here Templeton's merle dilutes the black of his phantom markings to a silver color. Merle is not expressed in red dogs. I have achieved many National Champion and Grand Champion titles. Over the years, many people came to trust our breeding program and purchased young horses to turn them into Champions as well. After dedicating many years of hard work to my farm, I have decided to retire from breeding horses and to open a new chapter in life. With my fondness for Standard Poodles, I have made the obvious choice to start breeding and showcasing this magnificent breed. My objective is to continue breeding animals of the same high quality as our horses. When adopting a puppy from me, I strive to make it a pleasant experience for everyone involved. All of my puppies are raised in my home, and I believe that daily interactions are vital for their development. At El Silencio, we take pride in breeding healthy, happy, and well-tempered puppies. We have been in the business for years and have gained a reputation for producing some of the most stunning and intelligent dogs in the world. Our breeding process starts with selecting only the best breeding stock. We carefully evaluate the health, temperament, and conformation of our dogs to ensure that they meet our high standards. We also conduct genetic testing to ensure that our breeding dogs are free from any genetic health issues that may be passed down to their offspring. Once we have selected our breeding stock, we carefully plan each breeding to ensure that we are producing the best possible puppies. We work with a team of experienced veterinarians and breeders to make sure that every step of the breeding process is done correctly. We monitor our breeding dogs closely throughout the pregnancy to ensure that they are healthy and happy. When the puppies are born, we continue to provide the highest level of care. Our puppies are raised in a clean and safe environment and receive regular veterinary check-ups to ensure that they are healthy. We also start socializing our puppies at a young age to ensure that they are well-adjusted and confident dogs. At El Silencio, we believe that every dog is special, and we take pride in helping our dogs find their forever homes. We carefully screen potential adopters to ensure that they are the right fit for our puppies. We also provide ongoing support to our adopters to ensure that they have everything they need to provide a loving home for their new furry family member. If you are interested in adopting one of our Puppies, we encourage you to reach out to us. We would be happy to answer any questions you may have about our breeding program or our puppies. What are Phantom Poodles? Overview While it is the solid Poodle that is the most common, there is much to discuss regarding Phantom Poodle coloring, which is different than mismarks, the Tuxedo, and parties. What Phantom Coloring Means A phantom Poodle is not a different breed or type of dog, this is simply a term to describe a particular coloring of the dog. This type of coloring, while extremely beautiful and preferred by many Poodle owners, is not yet accepted by the AKC in regard to confirmation. The AKC standard indicates that the Standard Poodle coat is an even and solid color at the skin: Blues, grays, silvers, browns, cafe-aulaits, apricots and creams and the coat may show varying shades of the same color. This is much different than parti colored Poodles, even though both parti and phantoms have a mixture of 2 colors. This term only refers to Poodles that have specific markings on a solid background. Many refer to these markings as Dobie markings short for Doberman , however this pattern also appears on Dachshunds, certain Spaniels, Yorkies, Manchester Terriers and certain Coonhounds. These markings must be: Above each eye On the sides of the muzzle also referred to as the side of the cheeks Across the dog's chest Down the legs Under the tail All phantom Poodles are born with their markings. This does not occur as the dog ages. Phantoms are genetically similar to brindle Poodles. For this reason, a phantom Poodle dam or sire can produce a litter of brindle puppies and likewise a brindle Poodle dam or sire can produce a litter of phantom puppies. With most dog breeds, brindle is a term that means the coat that is striped, with intermingling dark and light hairs making a striping pattern. However, with Poodles, brindle means "sable". Sable is a term that means that the coat is one color yet the tips of the hairs are black. With most dogs, the sabling black tips fade out or completely disappear with age. That price is just about twice as much as what you can find a solid-colored Poodle for. Apricot poodles are the rarest in the world. Caused by a recessive gene, this color comes off as a very light red that borders on cream. As dogs have been genetically bred for generations to have certain characteristics, apricot is hypothesized to be the last color developed in poodles. Red is dominant to apricot, so two red poodles can have apricot puppies, but not the other way around. White is one of the most popular and most common colors for Poodles. A white Poodle isn't the same as an albino, however, as the former has black skin whereas the latter will be pink. Standard Phantom Poodles are distinctively marked! They are a combination of any two colors, one darker and one lighter. The lighter color is over the eyes, on both sides of the face, under the ears and tail, across the chest and on all four lower legs. Brindles are mainly one color with a lighter or darker color brindled in their coat and can even be tiger striped. Phantoms and Brindles are not Parti. These Multi-colored Standard Poodles are very unique and have become very popular. Solid colors were rare! Americans in the New England States imported Solid colors from Germany and produced the Solid colors in America by restricting any other color than Solid in confirmation shows. Of course that was far from true since they were the original colors! Our proven breeding program is producing all the color choices available. We have three pages of our puppies available which include; 1. Solid Colors 2. Parti Colors and 3. Proven Bloodline! Calm temperament! High Intelligence! Sweet Black Phantom Female. Love her! Doggie-Door Trained! This girl is just outstanding in every way!! Super bright and attentive! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. We specialize in producing healthy, intelligent, beautiful standard poodles. Health and temperament are our number one priority! Our dogs excel at nearly everything, including working as service dogs and therapy dogs, conformation, agility, obedience, tracking, hunting, and of course as spoiled pets! We are not a kennel, all of our dogs are spoiled house pets, and we raise our puppies indoors with tons of socialization. Our dogs are all genetically health tested to ensure you are getting the healthiest dog possible. Contact us today to learn how you can add one of our dogs to your family! Our beautiful Gracie came from Le Harrell's and it was so obvious she was bred in a loving and warm environment. Taryn truly cares and tries so very hard to find the most loving homes for her puppies. Best experience I have ever had getting a new family member! After many months of trying to select the right breeder we chose Taryn based on her knowledge of poodles, and the fact they were raised in her home. Our little girl is healthy, secure, and smart. As a former breeder, I can honestly say Taryn is very passionate about poodles, and the breed itself. Which is the reason I choose Le Harrel's. We love our Mavis Pearl she is the sweetest. Phantom, Tri color, Brindle and Sable Poodles What are brindle, phantom, sable and tri colored standard poodles? Brindle standard poodles have two colors that form a striped pattern. They come in a variety of colors including silver, blue, grey, black, and brown. The brindle pattern may cover the whole body or be on the colored part of the dog not the white areas. It is possible to have a tuxedo or spotted parti poodle with a brindle pattern. Phantom poodles have markings often compared to those of a doberman pincher. There are several other breeds that have this color pattern. While phantom-patterned dogs have 2 coat colors, the markings of a phantom poodle are in a specific pattern, unlike a parti colored dog. Phantom poodles have lighter markings on their legs, across the cheeks on the face, across the chest, on the eyebrows, and below the tail. A true phantom will hold these marking throughout its lifetime. Phantom colors can be found in these combinations: Black phantoms: black and apricot, black and red, black and cream, black and brown, or black and silver Brown phantoms: brown and apricot or brown and creme Red phantoms: red and apricot or red and creme Silver or blue phantoms: silver and creme or blue and creme. On a silver, the markings may become almost indistinguishable as the color changes it is common for silver poodles to fade in color over time. Sable poodles are usually born black or brown and clear a kind of lightening with age. Sable dogs will mature to a lighter dog with black tips. When a poodle is groomed you often may see dark markings only on the longer hair such as the tips of the ears. A puppy that is born a dark brown or black that is also a sable may lighten to a creme with just dark tips. Tricolored poodles are genetically two color patterns. They are a parti colored poodle with phantom markings. The legs may be white as is often seen on a parti dog. The only phantom marking that occur may be seen on the face and eyebrows. You may see poodles with multiple patterns such as a brindle parti or brindle tuxedo. There are also brindle and phantom poodles, sable and phantom, and sable and brindle combinations all with or without parti markings. Dogs may have a black or dark mask on the face which is considered rare. The markings of a multi-colored dog may also change over time, which can be interesting to see. Watch Willow, a tuxedo brindle puppy, change colors. Phantom standard poodles We have phantom, brindle, sable and tri colored standard poodle puppies for sale, make sure to check back often to see available puppies. Our waiting list fills up quickly, fill out an application and get the process started.

Get Started Labradoodle Training We know how challenging it can be training your doodle puppy, and adjusting your new puppy's schedule and routine to yours. Below are some tips and suggestions on how to make your puppies first few weeks together with you and your family a stress free and exciting time for all involved! Bringing Your New Puppy Home The first few days home with you, can be overwhelming for your new puppy. Everything is a new experience to them. Try to bring the puppy into your home during a time that is slow for you. Once you arrive home with your puppy, you want to start a routine as quickly as possible. Try giving your puppy a few minutes of playtime before beginning any training. This is brought on by the stress of a big change, and as long as it is not excessive or bloody, it is nothing to be concerned about. High quality Puppy and Dog foods have all the necessary vitamins and nutrients that your dog needs. One ingredient to avoid in your puppy food is corn. Corn offers little nutritional value and is mostly a filler. You may feed your puppy whatever food you prefer. However, If you are changing foods, you want to do it slowly to give them a chance to adjust to the new food. Each day, gradually add more of the new food and less of the old food. If changed too quickly, the puppy may experience diarrhea. Once in the morning and once at night. We recommend the evening feeding to occur by - pm. It is recommended that you do this until they are around 6 months of age. Remember to offer water every 2 to 4 hours, not just when offering food. As with feeding we don't like to give water too close to bedtime when training a labradoodle puppy. House Training Your Labradoodle Puppy "The key to house training is to prevent accidents from happening in the first place. Such deterrence may seem impossible if you have a puppy that seems to eliminate every few minutes. But by following a few simple steps, you can teach your canine companion proper potty deportment. Pick A Potty Spot - Choose a grassy area that is close to your home and easy to clean up. Whenever your puppy needs to go, take him to this spot and use the same route to get there every time. Supervise Your Puppy - To prevent accidents, watch your puppy closely whenever he's not confined. Get Him A Den a crate, more on that below - When you can't watch your puppy, put him where accidents are less likely to occur: In a crate. The crate is a safe, enclosed area where your puppy will instinctively refrain from eliminating. Put your puppy in its crate any time you can't watch it every single second, but don't leave your pup there too long. No more than one hour longer than its age in months four hours for a 3-month-old dog. Keep A Schedule - Puppies need to eliminate after sleeping, eating, and playing, and before bedtime. By setting up a schedule for those activities, you can make your puppy's bathroom breaks more predictable and greatly reduce the likelihood of accidents. Stick With It - It may take awhile before your puppy becomes trained. If this process sounds like work ,it is, but the better you do it -or in other words, the fewer accidents you have while training-the more quickly your dog will succeed. Crate Training Your Labradoodle I have heard many people say that crate training is mean and only serves as a punishment to the dog. They couldn't be more wrong. These are some of the many benefits of crate training: Crates are perfect for the dog to sleep in. When a dog is coming into a home where other dogs already live, the crate is a safe place for the new dog. You should never confine your pet as a form of punishment. Make sure that you invest in a good sturdy crate made either of hard plastic or of heavy steel wire. Cages with rounded edges make it easier to clean them. Make sure the cage is big enough for the dog. Puppies need a cage that is appropriate for their size. They have crates that can be divided so that a large cage can work for a smaller puppy. This eliminates the need to buy several different cages as the puppy grows. We hope you have success training your doodle puppy and find it as rewarding as we have! Follow Along on Social Media! Popular Links. Read on for detailed tips on when you should expect your Labradoodle to be trained and milestone ages. Did you know that back in , Labradoodles were bred by an Australian breeder Wally Conron for a blind woman whose husband had a dog allergy? Since then, Labradoodles have only grown in popularity. The average lifespan of a Labradoodle is around 10 to 14 years , and they come in three different sizes — miniature or toy, medium, and standard. Their sizes can also affect how they behave. Your Labradoodle will undergo various changes through every stage in their lives. Their five different life stages include: Puppyhood — 1 to 5 months Adolescence — 6 to 18 months Adulthood — until three years of age Middle Age — until seven years of age Old Age — the last stage; until 12 to 14 years of age. At every stage, your Labradoodle will depict different behaviors, and you will have to modify how you train them accordingly. Can Labradoodles smile? The correct training approach is to start coaching your Labradoodles from the first day when you bring them home. Compared to adult dogs, puppies are easier to train. You will have a much easier and fun time training them when and where to pee, how to socialize, how not to put everything in their mouth, how to stay away from chewing the new sofa set, etc. First 30 Days with a Labradoodle The first 30 days are an exciting time with new Labradoodles. With a crossbreed, you often have no idea what surprises are about to unfold. Your furry friend will obviously go on to explore every nook and cranny of your house. While you might feel like spending every second cuddling and playing around with them, this is the time when you should start training your dog. The sooner you begin, the more adaptable the routine becomes to the dog. When they are young, it is recommended that you initiate the process of Early Scent Introduction to amplify their senses. This will allow them to quickly identify and react to particular smells. A helpful activity is putting a leash on your Labradoodle while it walks around the house and sniffs different household objects. You can also include a few more games and habits into their routine to make them put their senses to good use. You will often find them jumping around the house and licking everyone. All their sensory organs will be heightened, so behaviors like wagging their tails and play-biting people will be common. If their erratic behavior changes are not kept in check, you might even find them baring teeth at anyone who attempts to touch their belongings or fiddle with the safe environment they are used to. Potty Training This is the age to establish a potty schedule for your puppy. Include multiple potty breaks throughout the day so that the dog knows where to go to release themselves. Train them to hold their pee in until they reach their designated point. Every time they successfully pee outside , make sure to reward them with a treat. Leash Training Leashes are going to be a life-long friend of your dogs. Make sure you introduce them to the concept of a leash right from the very beginning. It will help your Labradoodle get accustomed to the feeling of having a leash around them every time they are taken for a walk. When at home, put the leash on the dog, and let them walk around freely without pulling on it. Two Labradoodles sniff eachother out at a dog park. The puppyhood phase is about to end, and the new adulthood chapter is about to commence. By this time, they should have mastered most of the training commands and techniques so you can move on to teaching them more advanced training options. Loose leash training, clicker, and positive reinforcement training all become possible now. We must keep a strict eye on reinforcing positive behavior and obedience and redirect unwanted behavior with just as much consistency as when they were a young puppy. By this time, your dog should also be vaccinated, so they can go to a nearby park and play with other dogs. Command Training This is the stage when you start teaching your Labradoodle some basic commands. The best way to introduce it is during their mealtime. You can hold the food in your hands and use it to lure them. Identify a definite marker that you can use to communicate to your Labradoodle if they perform a particular command correctly or incorrectly. Sit with your Labradoodle on the floor and play around to try to communicate with them. Make them comfortable with your touch and sound. Find other puppies that your Labradoodle can spend time with. It is a good idea to begin socializing your puppy to help them become more comfortable with humans as well as other dogs. This will also reduce the risk of anxiety and fear, help them listen to others better, and ensure that they live a fulfilling and happy life. Regardless of what training routine you establish for your dog, make sure you only do it through positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is a reward-based training option. So, if your dog successfully performs a task or follows a command, you praise them or reward them with treats. You can use a favorite treat or a toy to encourage them to follow the command again. Avoid punishing your dog at all costs as it would instill life-long fear in them. Use puzzle toys and different mentally stimulating exercises to improve their physical and mental capabilities even simple food toys like frozen Kongs or slow feeder bowls do the trick. Our best Labradoodle name ideas. I am sure you have been planning the arrival of your Labradoodle and are excited for all the joy and happiness they are about to bring into your life. I got a puppy a few months back too, and there are a few tips I wish someone had told me about before: Have two separate bowls ready for your Labradoodle — one for food and one for water. Feed them with food specific to their breed, and make sure to replace their bowl with fresh water every day. Proper nutrition and a balanced diet are part and parcel of a good puppy training routine. You can also treat them with a toy every time they follow the commands you teach them. Invest in a comfortable dog bed. Although bedding can be expensive, your Labradoodle needs a decent place to relax. Make sure the size of the bed is appropriate, neither too big nor too small. Puppy-proof your house before the new member settles in. Keeping the electrical cords out of reach, properly latching the doors and windows to avoid risking your puppy wandering off, and designating a specific bathroom area for the puppy are some of the vital precautions you must take. It not only keeps them clean and smelling fresh but also eliminates the risk of illnesses and diseases in your dog. But they still need to be regularly groomed to avoid matting. To do this, however, you need to train your Labradoodles to be comfortable with the different grooming tools and sit still for some time. Here are a few tips on how you can do that successfully: Sensitize your Labradoodle to the sounds of different grooming equipment like nail trimmers, scissors, combs, brushes, etc. Play with their paws and make them feel comfortable. You should massage their feet and touch their nails to make them feel at ease with your touch. The more you delay grooming your dog regularly, the more complex and painful the procedure will get. Brushing becomes easy, pain-free, and you will be surprised to see your Labradoodle eventually starting to look forward to it. While doing facial trims, your dog needs to remain calm and still. To do a facial trim, gently hold their head in one hand and rest their chin on another. There are high chances your dog will be placed in a crate when attending grooming sessions at a salon. So make them accustomed to being placed inside a crate at home. You can keep their favorite toys and treats inside to make them feel more comfortable. Most of the advanced Labradoodle training options and methods are built on basic training methods. If your Labradoodle has successfully mastered basic training skills, the advanced training period will be relatively easy. If you want your dog to behave even better and learn new tricks, or get them registered as a service dog or a guide dog, or make them participate in an upcoming dog event, you can consider enrolling them in professional advanced training courses. Labradoodles, as the name suggests, are a cross between Poodles and Labradors, combining the best characteristics of both breeds. Labradoodles are bred to be friendly and loving and they are very easy to train. In terms of background, if the breeder or adoption service you got your pup from did not start any training, then you will have to start slow and be patient. A Labradoodle that has been trained and brought up well can serve as the perfect service dog, guide dog, or therapy dog. Are Labradoodles Easy To Train? Labradoodles are great companions that can fit in as easily in a large family as they can in a small one. They are easy to train, friendly, social, and intelligent. If they are trained consistently, they develop a friendly temperament and bond well with their owners. Do Labradoodles Bark Excessively? As with any other breed of dog, Labradoodles are at high risk of barking excessively if they are not adequately trained or if their day-to-day requirements are not met. A Labradoodle has a lot of energy. If the energy is not channeled in the right place through coaching, exercising, and proper stimulation, they might get stressed and anxious and bark unreasonably. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Final Words The happiness that comes with having a Labradoodle as your companion and raising them is unmatched. However, as with any other dog, training them involves hard work and discipline. I hope this guide makes Labradoodle training easy for you. The biggest hurdle you may face when training your dog is a lack of motivation and consistency. Luckily, Labradoodles are inclined to learn from their owners quicker than other breeds. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. But in the early days, we recommend keeping them close to you at night. It will help them feel safe and cared for — leaving their litter is quite a big step, after all. Your puppy may be unsettled and will most likely need at least one bathroom break through the night. It will all be okay in a few weeks time, though. The crate should be a cozy warm den for your puppy. Soft blankets and a cuddly toy should do the trick to help them settle. It is also a good idea to cover over the sides but keep the front uncovered so your pup can still see out. Just before bed, take your pup out for one last potty stop. With that beautiful voice of yours, gently reassure them and rest your hand in the crate so they know you are there. When your puppy wakes up in the night they definitely will at some point , listen to see if they are settling back down. Expect to be out at or am to take them straight to the loo. They will be bursting! That just about covers the first steps of Labradoodle sleep training. Very tired. But early mornings, late nights and disturbed sleep are all part of owning a puppy. As they mature emotionally and settle into their new home they will be happy in other parts of the house, and even outside of their crate. Having them in your room does not cause separation anxiety later on. Stick to a routine! Consistency is everything. It will backfire on you. Check out our guide on how to get a puppy to sleep through the night for more tips. Alone Training Labradoodles are very sociable. That can mean two things — they will always be happy to see you and that being alone can be challenging for them. This will help them feel at ease without you and also help them love their crate a little bit more too. While they are eating, go and do something close by. No need to go completely out of sight, but try not to focus on your puppy either. Labradoodles love to eat, so use this time wisely to distract them away from you. Just a few seconds is good enough in the early stages. Repeat: Practice makes perfect! Do this exercise at least once a day to build up alone time, and check out our guide to puppy separation anxiety. We expand on our little secret in our puppy potty training article. Every 30 minutes, after eating, sleeping or playing. Socialization Exercises to do This Week Early socialization is important for all puppies. It gives them confidence and teaches them to view the world in an optimistic way. Here are some puppy socialization exercises to do with your Labradoodle. Let your Labradoodle Puppy Explore the Yard The yard is a great way to introduce your puppy to the great outdoors. They will also get used to walking on different types of surfaces such as your tiled, wet lawn or open flower beds. To get them there, here is a quick exercise you can run through: Exploring different surfaces exercise Have plenty of treats ready. Only use safe surfaces, nothing too slippery. Gather surfaces such as: A piece of carpet A large tray with a thin layer of water A large piece of tin foil or cardboard, something that makes a noise. Put the surfaces out on the floor and let your puppy investigate. Let them take their time and go at their own pace. In our experience Labradoodles are quite food motivated, and you can probably use a low or medium value treat for this. You can even try to use their kibble as many will be delighted to work for their food. For more info on what rewards to use check out our article on rewards and treats. Teach your puppy their name One of the first things your puppy will learn from you is their name. Fortunately, teaching a Labradoodle puppy their name is rather simple. Pretty easy, right? Practice this a few times everyday until they start flipping their head at you every time you call their name. Make sure everyone in the family uses the same name too! Teach your puppy to sit Labradoodle training is often started by teaching them how to sit. We call this a marker word. Keep using this word when they do the right thing, and then follow with a tasty treat. Bits of smelly sausage or cheese will definitely do the trick. If this happens, try to keep it simple at first and just use their own kibble if they are motivated to work for it. Save the big guns in treat terms for when you really need it! How to do it Always begin training at home. The outside world is far too exciting at the moment, and your puppy will probably not focus on you. Stand in front of your pup with a treat in your hand and place the treat on their nose, then bring it up to your waist. Recall — How to teach your Labradoodle puppy to come back when called Your puppy should have a good grasp of their name by now, which should make recall training pretty straightforward. Pun intended. How to do it You will need plenty of those high value treats and your best cheery voice. Call your puppy only once! This is super important as you want them to learn that their name only has to be called once for them to react to it. How to do it Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Once they are interested in the toy, throw it a short distance away from you. With that lovely singing voice of yours, encourage them to bring it back to you. When they do, swap the toy in their mouth for another identical toy. Repeat about 5 times and practice everyday. Get your puppy excited by showing them their favorite toy and making it come to life by waving it around. Prevention of Resource Guarding This part of Labradoodle training is important — it will prevent resource guarding by teaching your puppy how to give up items willingly. Resource guarding is this thing that happens when dogs are unwilling to give up items back, or when they get protective over something from humans or other dogs. From the training tips above, preventing resource guarding always comes down to a good swapping. Resource guarding starts when we force our dogs as puppies to give up items or snatch things out of their mouths. To avoid that, resist your temptation to reach deep inside their mouths to get whatever it is they have. Ultimately, we want our puppies to be willing to give things up when we need them to. What we really mean is care, handling, health and grooming. Start by just showing them the brush and running it over them with the apartment side so they get used to the sensation minus the bristles. Hand Touch and Handling If you handle your puppy too roughly or grab at them, not only are they going to have a bit of a fright, but it could make them feel scared about being touched in the future. Use plenty of treats, and remember to stop if they walk away. Touch should be a pleasant thing not forced. Week 2 — Training your Labradoodle puppy Week 2 already! Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. The Labradoodle is a gorgeous cross between a Labrador Retriever and a Poodle, and the Goldendoodle is an adorable mix between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. Characteristics and traits can vary significantly because these pups are a hybrid breed, but they are usually incredibly people-focused, laid back, and playful, making Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training an enjoyable moment. Doodles make awesome pets, especially if their owners fully comprehend the importance of training from a young age. The type of adult dog breed you end up with depends a little bit on their personality and a lot on how you take care of them. Before you begin Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training, it helps to decide exactly what kind of dog you want to have. Do Plenty of Research It is vital that you have an understanding of canine learning theory because dogs learn very differently from people. A puppy does whatever it can to get what it desires the most at that moment. There are plenty of online resources that can teach you about methods to get the best out of your training. It may be helpful to consult a puppy training professional or spend some time at doggy school to get a headstart and pick up tips from experts. Your pup is a blank slate — with your guidance, they can develop the traits and learn the behaviors that you value the most. Labradoodle and Goldendoodle puppies are curious and they love exploring their new home as they make it their own. Getting it right during the early stages sets a precedent for the rest of their life. Spending as much time as you can with them helps build the foundation for a happy, confident and well-behaved dog. Form a Bond and Gain Trust With Your Doodle Before you do anything, you will need to develop a strong bond with your new pal to make sure they trust you. Try to keep your own energy as calm as possible — they bounce off you. While it may be tempting to get excited by their cuteness and mirror their enthusiasm, this makes it more difficult for them to listen to you and regulate their own behavior. Teach your furry friend what to expect from the moment they get into the home to stop them from getting confused. Use Positive Reinforcement Intimidation or fear tactics are never the best way to build a loving and secure bond between you and your fur baby. To make the most of this method, reward your pooch for good behavior and ignore bad behavior. Treats, verbal praise, and clicker training reward them for a job well done. This also helps them to make positive associations with you and training time. Everyone has their own list of priorities and yours will depend on factors such as whether you have children or other pets. Potty training is a straightforward, formulaic process that your new puppy will adapt to. A consistent routine is the key to getting them toilet trained as efficiently and effectively as possible. Let them outside at the same time each day, and take them to the same spot. In the early days, it may be difficult for them to make it all the way through the night, so try to make provisions for this stage. Select a word for them to associate with potty training and repeat it over and over whenever you take them to the toilet. Every time they do their business outside, give them lots of cuddles and praise, treat them and play one of their favorite games. There will be setbacks — getting it right takes time! If they mess in the wrong place, take them outside to their toileting spot and give them the chance to relieve themselves. We cannot emphasize the importance of praising them when they get it right enough! Crate Training Not everyone opts to crate train their puppy, but it can be useful for the earliest stages of Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training. The crate gives them a safe place they can call their own. Be sure to make the time they spend in the crate a positive experience, and never leave them in there for more hours than their age in months plus one hour. For example, a three-month-old puppy can be kept in their crate for no more than four hours. Socialization Dogs are social animals, and Goldendoodles and Labradoodles, in particular, are happiest when they spend time pleasing people and playing. However, building confidence takes effort and guidance from their pet parent. If you want to ensure they grow up to have a balanced personality, you need to expose them to plenty of dogs, people and different situations. Take them out and about as much as possible to help them become accustomed to a range of noises, sights and sounds. Bring them to a local dog park to get them used to spending time around other dogs. Manners Your adorable little pup has the potential to develop a host of bad habits, but these behaviors can be nipped in the bud. Temperament and Dealing with Small Children There are several steps to take while getting your canine cutie used to being a member of a family with children. Both pup and child will need to have clear boundaries mapped out for them so they can build mutual trust and be kind to each other. Let the child practice with a toy before they pick up or cuddle the pup. Ensure the child sits down when they play with the dog; this helps to prevent the pup from getting overexcited. Teach the child to do small tasks to help care for the dog, such as filling the bowl or helping with grooming. Knowing what to expect according to the time of day helps them to settle and feel reassured. Always wake them up at the same time, feed and walk them around the same time and do training exercises at a set time. Patience Is Everything! The best piece of advice for Goldendoodle and Labradoodle training is to have patience. Spend lots of time bonding and playing with your pooch so you can make training something fun that you both enjoy. If you put in the effort early on, then you will be rewarded with a well-mannered dog who will be a joy to spend time with for years to come. Labradoodles are intelligent, friendly, and playful, but if you let your youngster do whatever he wants and allow him to think that he is the boss, then you may well end up with a naughty, attention-seeking adult. Lack of training usually plays a big part in why the dog develops some unwanted behavior traits. If you want a dog that you can take anywhere and who will be a perfect companion, rather than a pain in the neck, then spend time early on teaching him some manners and your ground rules. You may consider seeking the help of a professional trainer, but that option may not be practical or within the budget. This way, your puppy will get to learn and socialize with other dogs at the same time. You could also watch some Labradoodle training videos on YouTube, but it should not replace training with other dogs. If you decide to train your Doodle yourself, then remember the golden rule: training should always be based on rewards and not punishment. It should be a positive learning experience for both of you. Labradoodles can be sensitive little critters, and bawling at the top of your voice or smacking should not play any part in training. Are Labradoodles Easy to Train? Labradoodles are very intelligent and generally regarded as easy to train due to their easy-going temperaments and desire to connect with and please their humans. They have curious minds, and most will thrive on training if they get the chance to exercise their grey matter with some fun. Some Labradoodles are professionally trained to a very high standard to become guide or therapy dogs. Over the years, Labradoodles, especially Australian Labradoodles , have been bred with a specific easy-going temperament in mind. Early Labradoodles were often headstrong and hyper-active, but well-bred Aussie Doodles these days usually have great personalities and fit well into family life. Like most dogs, Labradoodles are pack animals and hierarchical. They respect the pecking order and are happy when they know and are comfortable with their place in it. They need to learn their place in the pack and accept you as a pack leader. You cannot force this on a dog by shouting and hitting. It has to be established by the natural order of things like mutual consent and brought about by proper training. If your puppy is not made aware of his place in the household and the rules to abide by, then he will end up ruling you and your family. Be firm, but never aggressive with your dog. If you do it wrong then, you will either frighten him or teach him to be aggressive. Keep training short and fun, especially at the beginning. If you have adopted an older dog, you can still train him, but it is a lot harder for them to unlearn bad habits. Training Tip 2: Your voice is your most important training tool Your dog has to learn to understand your language. The tone of your voice is very important. You should command in a calm, authoritative voice without shouting. Praise the puppy in a cheerful, encouraging voice, followed by a stroke or a pat. If your dog has done something wrong, use a firm, stern voice, not a harsh scream. This rule still applies even if your Labradoodle is unresponsive at the beginning. Training Tip 3: Only give command that you can enforce Labradoodles are intelligent dogs. Training Tip 4: Train your dog gently and humanely. Use positive and motivational methods to teach your puppy. Keep training sessions upbeat, so the whole experience is enjoyable for both of you. Training Tip 5: Begin your training from home How well your dog responds to you at home affects his behavior away from home as well. Training Tip 6: One command equals one response Give your dog only one command — twice maximum — then gently enforce it. Repeating commands or nagging will make your Labradoodle tune out. It also tells him that the first few commands are a bluff. But a relationship based on fear is not a good one, and it will undermine your relationship with him. He should trust that when he hears his name, good things happen. His name should always be a word that your Doodle responds to with enthusiasm, never hesitancy or fear. If he gets lots of attention when he jumps up on you, his bad behavior gets reinforced. Training Tip Timing is critical When your puppy does something right, praise him immediately. Similarly, when he does something wrong, correct him straight away. This technique works surprisingly well. Training Tip Give your dog attention when YOU want Labradoodles are sociable creatures, and they love being with you and involved with the family. While you are training him, it is good to give your puppy lots of positive attention when he is good. But if he starts jumping up, nudging you constantly or barking for your attention, then ignore him. If you give in to his every demand, then he will begin to think that he is the boss and become more demanding. Wait a while and pat him when you want, and when he has stopped demanding your attention. Training Tip Be Consistent In terms of rules and training, treat your fluffy little Doodle pup as a grown-up. Make him abide by the rules you want him to live by as an adult. You may want to put your pup on a leash to hold his attention in the beginning. Stand facing each other and hold a treat a few inches above his head. Stroke and praise him for as long as he stays in the sitting position. Practice it in short sessions until he does it every time. After a while, he should do it just from command, without moving the treat over him. When he does, give him a treat anyway. If he jumps up on his back legs and paws while you are moving the treat, be patient, and start all over again. Another method is to put one hand on his chest and with your other hand, gently push down on his rear end until he is sitting. Give him a treat and praise, even though you have made him do it. For example, when you are putting his leash on, while you are preparing his meal, when he fetches the ball, or when he is demanding attention or getting over-excited. They do it all the time with their siblings in the litter. It is a game for them. But when they arrive at your home, they have to be taught that human body parts are not for biting. Try not to encourage play-biting. As a puppy grows and feels more confident in his surroundings, and he may become slightly more aggressive. His bites may hurt someone, especially if you have children or older people at home. Make sure to have a soft toy nearby every time you have a play session with your puppy. When he starts to chew your hand or feet, clench your fingers or toes to make it more difficult and distract him with the soft toy in your other hand. Keep the game interesting by moving the toy around or rolling it around in front of him. He may continue to chew you, but will eventually realize that the toy is far more exciting and livelier than your body parts. If he becomes over-excited or too aggressive with the toy and starts growling a lot, then stop playing with him, and walk away. If your pup is more persistent and tries to bite your legs as you walk away, thinking this is another fantastic game, stand still and ignore him. Your puppy may well jump back in amazement, surprised that he has hurt you. Train a Labradoodle Not to Jump The reason why a labradoodle jumps up onto humans is that they want to get your attention and say hello. As you are taller than him, he has to jump to get your attention. Sadly, it might not be enjoyable for your guests or other people having an unknown dog jumping on them. As a dog owner, you must stop your dog from bothering other people. You can try the below techniques to train your labradoodle not to jump: When your dog starts jumping, follow training tip 9. Do not look into his eyes and stand straight up with your arms crossed. When his paws touch the ground, pat him. Repeat the exercise until he stops jumping. If your dog is jumping on a guest, then ask your guest to turn around and ignore him. Labradoodle Crate Training Crate training is the process of teaching your pup how to behave and enjoy spending time in a crate. Along with housetraining, this is one of the first things you should do when you get a new puppy. The idea behind crate training is that dogs like to have their particular spot. This place is a Safe Haven where only they can go. It teaches them to hold it until they are let outside to potty. Crates are not for every Labradoodle, and you should NEVER use them to imprison the dog while you are out of the house all day. Doodles are not like hamsters or pet mice, which can adapt to life in a cage. But, used correctly, a crate can help to: Housetrain your dog Keep your dog safe when traveling Create a doggy bedroom or place where your Labradoodle feels safe. If you use a crate, then remember that it is NOT a prison to restrain the dog. It should only be used humanely, and time should be spent to make the puppy feel like the crate is his safe little haven. Place the crate in the corner of a room, away from cold draughts or too much heat. Labradoodles like to be near their pack so, leave him where he can hear you. Crate Training Here are some techniques that you can follow to make your puppy to accept a crate and then to want to spend time in there. He might not be very happy about going in at first, but he will be a lot easier to crate train than an adult dog Drop a few tasty treats around and then inside the crate. Keep the door open. Do not close the crate door yet. Place a chew or treat inside the crate and close the door while your pup is outside the crate. He will be desperate to get in. Open the door to let him in and praises him. Fasten a long-lasting chew inside the crate and leave the door open. Let your puppy go inside and spend some time eating the chew. After a while, close the crate door and feed him some treats through the mesh. At first, do it for a few seconds at a time, then gradually increase the time. If you do it too fast, he will become distressed. Slowly build up the amount of time he is in the crate. For the first few days, stay in the room, then gradually leave the room for a short time, first one minute, then three, then 10, 30 minutes, and so on. The next points are very important to make the crate training successful: Do not let the dog immediately out of the crate while he is barking, or he will think that barking is the key to opening the door to the crate. Wait until the barking or whining has stopped for at least 10 seconds before letting him out. If you do decide to use a crate, remember that a dog is NOT a caged animal. Use the crate for limited periods and only if your dog is comfortable in there. NEVER force a dog to go in and then lock him in for hours on end. From about the age of three weeks, a puppy will leave his sleeping area to go to the toilet. Therefore, you need to teach him that it is unacceptable to make a mess anywhere inside the home. It depends on how quickly your puppy learns and how persistent and patient you are. Follow these steps to speed up the potty-training process: Constant supervision is essential for the first few weeks if you want to house train your puppy quickly. This is why it is necessary to book the week off work when you bring a new puppy home. Making sure you are there to take him outside regularly. If nobody is there, he will learn to urinate or poop inside the house. Take your puppy outside to the same place every time. Dogs naturally develop a preference for going in the same spot or on the same surface -often grass. Take him to the same patch every time, so he learns this is his toilet — preferably an area in a far corner of your garden or yard. No pressure — be patient. You must allow your Doodle pup to wander around and have a good sniff before he does his duties. Stay around a short distance away instead of leaving him. Sadly, puppies are not known for their powers of concentration. They may become easily distracted, and it may take a while for them to select that perfect spot to wee pee on! Share the responsibility. Just make sure you stick to the same routines and patch of ground. Take your pup outside at the following times: As soon as he wakes — every time Shortly after each feed. Over 6 Months Old 8 week old Labradoodle Puppy Training At 8 weeks old your puppy has only just arrived home, so your main focus will be on helping them to settle in, bonding and starting that all important potty training process. Potty Training Your brand new puppy will need to have the opportunity to pee as much as every twenty minutes for the first few days. They will also need to pee or poop after every meal, and every big drink. Socialization Have four different sets of visitors to the house, and go to at least four busy places with the puppy in your arms. Sweet Goodbyes Puppies find it hard to be left alone, so we like to sweeten up those goodbyes with treats! Every time you need to briefly leave the room, drop a handful of kibble behind you to make it seem like a good thing for your pup. Follow me Puppies are naturally inclined to follow you at 8 weeks old, and you want to encourage that instinct. When outdoors in the backyard change direction lots, and give lots of treats and cuddles in exchange for them coming after you. Recall Blow your recall whistle we use five short pips when your puppy is running full pelt towards you. They will have started to understand that outdoors is the place to pee, and have gained a tiny bit of bladder control. But they will still need a lot of help! Socialization should still be in full swing this week, and your increasingly confident puppy will need help remembering to keep her teeth to herself. Potty Training Your puppy will still need lots of opportunity to pee outdoors in order to reduce accidents. Socialization Meeting people is really important this week. Take your puppy to four new places, and have four sets of visitors. Carry them while you are outdoors. Rewarding Eye Contact Whenever your puppy looks up at your face, pop a treat in between her paws or into her mouth. This will start to encourage her to look up at you more often, in the hopes of something scrummy. We close our treat laden palm when the puppy approaches, open it again as they back oiff and feed the treats to them with the other hand. This helps them to start learning that staying calm and keeping a little distance will get you treats quicker than biting and snatching at them. This week you might start to see those teeth come into action. Remember to remove attention from the puppy when they bite hard on your skin. At just under 3 months old your puppy will have lots of confidence, and be accidentally getting themselves into all sorts of jams unless you are really careful. The window for socialization is closing soon, so make the most of those last couple of weeks to build up their knowledge of people and the world around them. Potty Training At 10 to 12 weeks your puppy will be able to hold its bladder for maybe as long as two and a half hours during the day. If you get an accident in the house, reduce that time down again. And make a note of when your puppy pees so as not to lose track. Over these weeks try to go to two new busy places and two new sets of visitors each week. Rewarding calm behavior Now is the time to help your dog learn to relax. Every time you catch your Labradoodle puppy relaxing, pop a treat between their paws. This will encourage her to chill out even more! Introduce off leash heel position You can start to teach your dog to walk nicely next to you at this point. We begin this process by reinforcing them for standing next to you with the clicker and treats. Recall To work on your recall, whistle your puppy for running towards you as you run away. Give them lots of treats as a reward when they arrive. You can also whistle when giving meals to build up strong positive associations with this cue. Bite inhibition Labradoodle puppy biting can really ramp up at this age. Remember to remove attention when your puppy bites hard. Either standing up, or even leaving the room or popping them in their crate or playpen temporarily while they calm down. This is your final chance for socialization, and it needs to be carried out in a more relaxed way. But at least you can pop your pup on the ground now! Recall Whistle your puppy for running towards you as you walk away, rewarding them with lots of treats when they arrive. Stand with your puppy on the leash, and carry them between locations so as not to upset future heelwork progress. Introduce sit We introduce the sit at this stage, but in a very relaxed informal way. We do so indoors only, when there are no distractions. This is begun without a cue or command, by capturing the position. Potty training should be pretty established. Your goal is to encourage your dog to focus on you and to become a well mannered member of the family. Your puppy should still be given the chance to pee at least every two to three hours. As well as after meals! Changing directions Puppies are more confident at this age, so you need to keep them keen to stay near you. When outdoors in the backyard or at the dog park, keep changing direction regularly. Be unpredictable, and when they follow you back it up with lots of fuss and treats. Off leash heelwork Off leash heelwork training moves from establishing the position to taking a few steps forwards at this stage. Make sure you use lots of praise, and only practice in a familiar, boring area. And one with no distractions! Go slowly, and make sure your pup stays focussed on you. Introduce down We also introduce the down position at this age. This is done without a cue like the sit was the previous month, by capturing the position. Advancing the sit The sit advances further at this stage. Once that is well established, you can begin to very slightly increase duration and distance one by one. Adding distance, duration or distractions to things they already know. Where you get your dog used to doing as you ask them, in different locations or with distractions. Or for longer! Adding distance, duration or distractions We do this step by step, only increasing one thing at a time. So if you want your dog to sit for longer, you will do it somewhere they already happily sit and with no one else around. And thinking of adding a distraction like another dog? Then do it somewhere they are familiar with, and with that dog a long way away to begin with. On leash heelwork We love teaching heelwork off leash. It helps your dog to walk nicely next to you, without ever having the opportunity to pull. A dog that has never wandered ahead is less likely to try to do so even with a leash. Training Methods I cannot recommend positive reinforcement training enough. Positive reinforcement involves rewarding your dog when they do something that you want them to, by giving them something they like. Food is usually the best thing to motivate your dog with, but toys work well for some dogs too. When you use positive methods you can start training your puppy from the very first day they arrive in your home. And logical to know how far you expect a puppy to be able to have come at different developmental stages. Labradoodles are clever and focussed, but they also have a fairly high prey drive. Training is a marathon, not a sprint, and every dog takes their own time. Just remember to only move on to more challenging training situations for them when they have totally mastered the stage before. Related Articles. Active and needs lots of exercises History Of The Breed The labradoodle has been around since the s as a mix of the Labrador retriever and a full-size poodle. This breed was developed to create dogs with the loyalty, intelligence, and trainability of the Labrador retriever, with the low shedding coat of the poodle. The loyalty and high intelligence of poodles made them a great personality match for a Lab as well. Despite being bred as companion dogs, standard poodles are actually pretty big. They are at least 15 inches tall and can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds. When you combine that with a Labrador, which is inches tall and can weigh 70 pounds, you get a pretty big dog. They tend to be around inches tall and can weigh pounds. They are dogs that take up quite a bit of space! Of course, you can get a smaller labradoodle by breeding a Lab with a miniature or a toy poodle. This is not as easy to do as there can be a huge size difference between the pure-bred parents, but some breeders have been working for several generations to gradually reduce the size of their labradoodle pups. Mini Labradoodle Appearance There is still quite a bit of size difference between the miniature Labradoodles that you can get from a breeder; they can weigh anything from 15 to 30 pounds, and most will measure somewhere between 14 and 16 inches tall. The appearance of miniature Labradoodles can be more predictable than that of standard Labradoodles as they are usually bred from two labradoodle parents, rather than directly from the parent breeds. They will almost certainly have the low-shedding coat of a poodle since this is one of the principal traits that is controlled for. They could have a wool coat that needs daily brushing to release hair that gets caught up in the wiry texture or a fleece coat that is wavy. These may shed slightly more, but this coat is easy to care for. They can vary significantly in color since poodles come in a variety of colors, unlike Labradors which are yellow, black, or chocolate. They can be apricot, black, blue, brown, cream, gray, red, silver, silver-beige, or white. They may also be bicolor, though this is relatively rare. Temperament Labradoodles are highly intelligent dogs. Both Labradors and poodles are considered among the most intelligent breeds and can learn a new command with as few as five repetitions. Their offspring will certainly inherit this intelligence. Labradors are also highly trainable because they are eager to please and love having something to do! They are also reward-driven. This means that mini Labradoodles will be highly trainable as well. Both parent breeds love people and tend to form tight attachments with their families quickly. They are also pretty relaxed with strangers and are more likely to want to make friends than raise the alarm when someone shows up at the door. This is one of the reasons that they make excellent guide dogs or other working dogs. You should always pay attention when your miniature labradoodle starts barking. They can be a bit more standoffish with other pets, but socialization from a young age can teach them to make friends. You should take the time to introduce new pets into the home and let them get to know each other from a distance first when dealing with these dogs. Because both parent breeds love being around people, so do their miniature Lab children. They can become highly stressed and even develop depression. It is also common for them to become destructive when they feel frustrated. Since they are highly intelligent pups, they need a lot of mental stimulation. Teaching them tricks can be a great way to activate their minds, and puzzle toys can keep them distracted for a while, though they tend to figure things out pretty quickly. Be warned that they are also excellent escape artists, so all escape routes from the house need to be secured. Labradoodles love children and instinctively know how to be careful and protective of them. Of course, you should never leave children unattended with any dog for the safety of both, but a miniature labradoodle will love playing with kids, and the two high-energy forces can work to wear one another out. Activity Levels Despite their smaller size, miniature Labradoodles need almost as much exercise as their larger labradoodle cousins. They need at least an hour of active exercise each day, preferably split into two 30 minute periods. In addition to formal exercise, they do best when they have some outdoor space at home that they can potter around in and use to let off a bit of energy throughout the day. Nothing will make these dogs happier than accompanying the family on hikes and other adventures. Thanks to their Lab parent they also love the water and tend to be excellent swimmers. Health Concerns A miniature labradoodle may live as little as 10 or as long as 18 years, which can be very difficult to predict, but you should expect your canine companion to be with you for quite some time. While they are generally healthy dogs, they can be predisposed to a few health conditions that pet parents should be aware of. The first is gastric dilation, which is basically bloating. Gaining weight can be an immediate sign of this, but it wreaks havoc with many of their systems. This is another good reason to watch what you feed them, and consult your vet about relevant medication. These collapses can be life-threatening, so it is important to monitor your dog during exercise and rein them in if they show any sign of muscle weakness or lack of coordination. Consult your vet for long-term treatment. This can also be a sign of centronuclear myopathy, which is not unknown in this breed. Hip dysplasia can be another common issue, which is exacerbated if you overexercise your dog as a puppy. Restrict exercise until they are fully grown to ensure against abnormal growth. Eye conditions including cataracts and progressive retinal atrophy are also pretty common, but most breeders should be screening for this. How To Find A Mini Labradoodle Puppy Labradoodles are a popular breed, so there are many active breeders, but finding one who specializes in miniature Labradoodles can be more challenging. Thankfully, there is a big community that loves this type of dog so there are many forums where you can ask around and get advice. Having read our guide to the miniature labradoodle, are you considering whether you should adopt one? Consider the following to make your final decision. This can lead to destructive frustration and serious depression. They do best in households when there is nearly always someone about, or when they can go to work with you. Their good behavior and low shedding mean that they are good dogs to take with you to other places. You also need to take the time to train these dogs, as they need lots of mental stimulation to keep them entertained. Are you willing to commit the time to their development? Despite their small size, these are high-energy dogs. As well as formal exercise, they will love joining you on weekend adventures and would rather be on the trail than sitting in front of the TV watching Netflix with you. Do you have the type of lifestyle that your dog will enjoy? Do You Have Kids? Miniature labradoodles are great with kids and they know how to both be protective and play gently. The key is to teach children how to treat dogs gently as well. They might not be the best fit for very young families just because they have lots of energy and need lots of attention. It can be a challenge to juggle the needs of young children and an energetic young pup at the same time. There are, however, lots of things to look out for to make sure these pups stay healthy and happy. They will bark during play or if they want to get your attention, but excessive barking is uncommon and is normally something that you should pay attention to. Do labradoodles chew furniture? Find our recommendations for the best puppy chew toys here. Can mini labradoodles be left alone? These dogs should not be left at home repeatedly for long workdays, though. These dogs do best when they have company for most of the day. Do labradoodles bond with one person? All dogs have a tendency to bond more strongly with one person than everyone else. This is usually their principal caregiver, but they have big hearts with room for everyone in the family, plus most of the strangers they meet. The miniature labradoodle is a smaller version of the original labradoodle that can do better in smaller family homes; however, they still have the same high energy and need at least some outdoor space to call their own. If you have always wanted a labradoodle, but resisted adopting one because of its size, the miniature labradoodle might be exactly the dog you are looking for. Do you have experience with miniature Labradoodles? Share your thoughts 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. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.