golden retriever puppies maintenance

Alaskan Malamutes are speculated to have descended from wolves and may have accompanied hunters on their travels as far back as 4, years ago. Named after the Mahlemuts Indian tribe, they have long been bred for pulling sleds and assisting in big game hunts. As the official state dog of Alaska, this AKC-recognized breed has gained large fame across much of the northern and central United States. As you might expect, German Shepherds originally hail from Germany. Developed through intensive crossbreeding of native shepherding dogs in the early s, they were bred specifically to herd sheep. Renowned for their responsiveness and naturally well-behaved temperaments, they soon became a popular option for working dogs in every profession — even the German military. Their ancestors may have crossed the Bering Strait. As far back as 4, years ago, it is speculated that Paleo-Indian tribes migrated from Asia to North America via a land bridge that was only passable due to lower ocean levels. Larger dogs of this breed can nearly double the average weight. Uncommon amongst any dog breed, the Alaskan Shepherd has ancient genes that sometimes produce surprising results. Whereas most dogs of this breed weigh between 60 and 80 pounds, the largest examples can weigh in excess of pounds! Puppies of this breed can seem to have boundless energy and require substantial amounts of training to curb their constant enthusiasm and occasional recklessness. Are These Dogs Good for Families? While they would never intentionally harm a child — and often go to great lengths to protect them — their herding instincts can lead them to bully or boss children around without meaning to. As puppies, they may not be as inclined to spend time with other dogs and especially not cats or rabbits. Once they grow older and naturally mellow out, though, they can be very sociable and welcoming dogs. Things to Know When Owning an Alaskan Shepherd Adopting an Alaskan Shepherd will almost certainly be a large investment of your time, money, and attention. Possessed of great stores of energy and endurance, they love being taken outdoors for walks, runs, and hikes. A good baseline to shoot for is an hour per day of moderate activity, though they can easily handle more without complaint. If you like a dog that you can play games with, the Alaskan Shepherd is an excellent choice! This is especially true in the spring and fall when they will lose one coat to prepare for the season ahead. Weekly brushings will suffice for most of the year, but this should be increased to a daily frequency during their shedding seasons. However, they have inherited a tendency from their ancestors towards a few medical conditions, such as the following: Minor Conditions. However, both parents may still carry specific genes, such as those for hip and elbow dysplasia, putting your Alaskan Shepherd puppy at risk. Always seek out a reputable breeder and always ask to see the DNA reports and hip and elbow scores of the parents before purchasing a puppy. This way, you do not encourage irresponsible breeding practices. Some other genetic issues to look out for include cartilaginous exostosis, which involves bony enlargements on any part of the skeleton except the skull, and chondrodysplasia, which sometimes affects Malamutes. It is a type of dwarfism that creates abnormally shaped limbs. Malamutes should also be screened for idiopathic polyneuropathy, day blindness, hypothyroidism, and cataracts before they are bred. In terms of the German Shepherd parent , genetic disorders include degenerative myelopathy, resulting in complete paralysis of the hindlegs, and exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. This problem can lead to digestive issues. German Shepherds are also prone to various cancers, such as renal cystadenocarcinoma and nodular dermatofibrosis. These cause skin nodules and kidney tumors. German Shepherd crosses have been known to inherit these genes. An Alaskan Shepherd is also at risk for Von Willebrand disease, a blood-clotting disorder. While some dogs may never show any symptoms of this disease, others might bleed profusely from orifices like the nose, and cuts and scrapes can turn quite serious. Finally, since this is an active breed with a hearty appetite, its diet should be monitored if it eats a little more than it burns off exercising, as Alaskan Shepherds have been known to struggle with obesity. What is the lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd? The German Shepherd is often not a long-lived dog, which can influence its offspring. However, the Alaskan Malamute is quite hardy, and so the Alaskan Shepherd can be expected to live between 7 and 14 years. The trainability of a Malamute German Shepherd mix: Temperament and Intelligence Generally, the Alaskan Shepherd inherits a high working drive from both parents, meaning it is at its happiest when it has a job to do. It also usually has the intelligence of the German Shepherd, making it moderately to highly trainable. One trait it will also likely gain from its GSD parent is its guardian instincts. However, this might be affected by the Malamute parent, as Malamutes are incredibly affectionate to all people and are usually not good guard dogs. Many Alaskan Shepherd owners report their dogs making the same hilarious sounds. However, like many ancient breeds, the Malamute is an independent and sometimes domineering dog with little patience for repetition in training and a strong mind of its own. It may well pass this willfulness down to the Alaskan Shepherd. Sociability with Other Pets It should also be noted that while the Malamute typically loves people, it also tends to have a high prey drive, making it a challenge to keep in homes with smaller animals. It has also been known to be dominant and sometimes aggressive with other dogs. So much so that it is recommended never to keep these dogs with others of the same gender. It is hoped that in the Alaskan Shepherd mix, although some of this may be less prevalent, that you socialize the dog from an early age and establish yourself as a pack leader. Preferably it should live in a cooler climate, better suited for its double coat, and should be given access to as much space as possible. Do German Shepherd Malamute mixes make good family dogs? The Alaskan Shepherd is the perfect dog for the right family. They tend to be protective and loving with children, although they should always be supervised because of their size. So long as their need for stimulation, challenges, and exercise are met, they are loyal guardians and devoted companions. Raising a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy As a large to possibly giant dog, the German Shepherd Malamute cross needs to have its exercise carefully monitored while young to avoid undue stress on its joints. This is no small task since a young Alaskan Shepherd is likely to be rambunctious and rowdy. This means it will need carefully structured exercise and early socialization and training to deal with any potential aggression problems. Training should be kept short and positive to avoid problems with its stubborn streak. It will also need specially formulated food to help it grow. For this, it is best to speak to your veterinarian and make sure he is on a balanced diet. Since it is a mixed breed, the exact price can be hard to pinpoint. While this may not be the breed for a passive home, it can make an excellent companion, hunter, and sledding dog for anybody willing to put in the time. With enough stimulation, exercise, and training, the Alaskan Shepherd is likely to make one of the best dogs a person could own. If you are interested in this breed or have any experience with them, be sure to let us know about it in the comments below. Tamsin De La Harpe Author Tamsin de la Harpe has nearly two decades of experience with dogs in rescue, training, and behavior modification with fearful and aggressive dogs. She has worked closely with veterinarians and various kennels, building up extensive medical knowledge and an understanding of canine health and physiology. She also spent two years in the animal sciences as a canine nutrition researcher, focusing on longevity and holistic healthcare for our four-legged companions. Tamsin currently keeps a busy homestead with an assortment of rescue dogs and three Bullmastiffs. This mixed breed is a cross between a German Shepherd and Alaskan Malamute that likely originated in the early s. Bred to carry packages and pull sleds, breeders wanted the best of two already popular, strong purebreds. Over the years, people combined various strains of this purebred to produce the modern-day GSD. Fun fact: The German Shepherd is quite popular in pop culture, too. From wolf to dog: the Alaskan Malamute Alaskan Malamutes , or simply Mals, are descendants of canines from the Paleolithic period. Meet the cheerful Alaskan Malamute Malamutes are directly domesticated from their wolf ancestors, explaining their fierce wolf-like appearance — rock deep chests with powerful shoulders and erect ears. It tells the tale of a scientific expedition in Antarctica. What does an Alaskan Shepherd look like? They have pointy, erect ears, and eyes that can be hazel, brown, or blue. Then their noses can either be black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute mixes have great strength, which is evident in their muscular body and sturdy disposition. How big does a German Shepherd Malamute mix get? Alaskan Shepherds have a height of 21 to 28 inches 53 to 71 cm and weigh 60 to pounds 27 to 59 kg , with females being a tad smaller than males. Medium- to giant-sized dogs are NOT suitable for apartment living. They need a house with a large indoor and outdoor space to be comfortable. Are German Shepherd Malamute mixes hypoallergenic? They have a straight, medium-length double coat made up of a soft, dense undercoat and a thick, rough topcoat. These fluffy beauties can have a red, brown, gold, black, and grey color coat. But other combinations and shades are possible too, like blue, silver, sable, white, cream, and liver. They can be tricolored, too. Temperament: Is a German Shepherd Malamute mix a good family dog? Alaskan Shepherds are affectionate, loyal crossbreeds that are excellent with children. Be cautious and supervise play because this pooch might not be aware of how strong and big they are. Their independence can make them stubborn and would need a pack leader. Early socialization and training are crucial to avoid potential aggressive behaviors, which comes from their GSD parent. Eventually, they can serve as therapy or service dogs. So go ahead and train your pup as early as two and a half weeks. Want to see how smart the German Shepherd-Alaskan Malamute cross is? Watch this video of Zoey instinctively herding goats! After bringing your Alaskan Shepherd home Be aware that these dogs require moderate to intense maintenance. They need some serious upkeep. Are you up for it? This will provide you full access to brush her coat, especially the parts where matting often occur, like the neck area. Get your bristle brush and run it in one direction. Some owners use a deshedding tool twice a week to lessen the amount of shedding. Baths should only be given when your doggo looks and smells dirty to avoid drying her coat and skin. And use a soothing shampoo that has aloe vera and oatmeal. For that weekly ear cleaning, use a cotton ball and a dog-specific ear solution. The frequency of nail trims will depend on activity level since dogs can naturally wear down their nails with exercise. They could get dry and scaly; if this happens, you can use Vaseline as treatment. Exercise: How active are Alaskan Shepherds? The Alaskan Malamute-German Shepherd cross has parents with a working background, so we can expect this pooch to be highly active. But at least an hour of exercise a day will be sufficient. Plan for a range of activities to keep your fur baby engaged. They also need mental stimulation. You can play fetch with her, or give her time to enjoy sniffing and running around. The best food for a German Shepherd Malamute mix The kind of diet and amount of food you should give your dog will depend on her age, weight, metabolism, and health. Choose a brand with high levels of protein and calcium, as well as easy-to-digest ingredients like rice, chicken, and barley. Hypoallergenic dog food may also be a great choice since the German Shepherd breed is prone to various allergies. Resist those puppy-dog eyes! Are these dogs healthy? Still, all dogs can inherit some of the health problems that their purebred parents are predisposed to. Where to buy Alaskan Shepherd puppies? There are many places where you can find a German Shepherd Malamute mix puppy for sale. Do your research and ask questions before deciding who to buy from. Responsible breeders mostly require potential buyers to visit their kennel for a meet-and-greet, as well as to conduct interviews. In fact, we encourage you to get a dog that aligns with your lifestyle. Here are other designer dogs you may want to check out:. The best way to determine the temperament of a mixed breed is to look up all breeds in the cross and know you can get any combination of any of the characteristics found in either breed. It is very common for breeders to breed multi-generation crosses. He is very energetic and well mannered. He is very gentle with children and protective of the whole family. He is very loving and great with our kids as young as 2 years old. He is very calm and we couldn't ask for a better puppy. He is full of energy and very loving. An intelligent dog and very easy to train. He howls like a Malamute and barks like a Shepherd. He loves playing with other pups and dogs as soon as he is familiar with them and his surroundings. He is very well house trained already and has not shed a hair in our home. He is very dependent on us for companionship and does not like being alone at all. He is very big boned and strong. He gets a lot of exercise, loves to play and is friendly with people. Ben is very intelligent and is easily trained. His prey drive is very high but living with a cranky cat is curbing that. An amazing pup who's growing quickly into an excellent well mannered Alaskan Shepherd who tends to howl at night. She is a very intelligent, mostly well-behaved dog who can be stubborn at times when it comes to learning commands, but she is very well housetrained. Naomi adapts well to new environments, proving this when we moved from the country to an apartment nearly miles away. She loves car rides and going places. She is very people-oriented and is good with children and cats, but she likes to establish her rank with other dogs before accepting their presence. She can be a bully, but is not really dog-aggressive. This dog is not very playful with other dogs, but loves to play with people. She displays many Malamute behaviors and some Shepherd behavior. She rarely barks, but instead makes the "woooo" talking sound Malamutes make and she howls when sirens are heard. She has some protective behaviors will growl at suspicious people when being walked at night , but she probably wouldn't keep a burglar out of the house if I was away. Her appearance and size, however, deter many people from coming too close without asking. She can be mischievous, but she is generally laid-back as long as she's walked several times a day. She is very clean and grooms herself like a cat. She sheds A LOT all year long. She is a large dog, around 83 pounds. Naomi was diagnosed with hip dysplasia when she was a year old and it had already caused arthritis. The only bad point is he sheds a huge amount of fur, but that may be due to the heating inside our home. Their eyes will be almond-shaped and usually brown, although they can have hazel or blue eyes depending on their parents. The colour of their coat can vary greatly between the two dogs with some appearing greyer like an Alaskan Malamute and having browns and reds like the German Shepherd. Regardless of the colouring, their coat will be very dense. Their fur is usually quite thick and straight, taking after their parent breeds, and will be medium to long in length. Alaskan Shepherd Grooming Much like both parent breeds, Alaskan Shepherds need regular grooming to keep their coats looking healthy and in good condition. They have a very dense double coat that sheds heavily, especially when they are blowing their coat which usually happens once or twice a year. As a result, Alaskan Shepherds will need a grooming session at least once a week to remove loose hairs and keep their coat looking shiny and healthy. Daily or twice-daily grooming will be necessary during coat-blowing season. We recommend prospective owners invest in a good deshedder tool, along with a slicker brush and a pin brush in order to be well equipped for grooming. Alaskan Shepherds only need bathing with shampoo occasionally, for example once a month, as their double coat is designed to stay naturally clean. In between baths, their undercoats should be checked for any debris that may have gathered whilst outside. Alaskan Shepherds are not a hypoallergenic breed and therefore, they are not suitable for owners with allergies. As with all dogs, their nails will need to be trimmed regularly and their teeth should be kept clean with dental chews or otherwise. They are very intelligent dogs and benefit from being trained to learn commands and tricks. Their intelligence does mean that they can become restless and bored if they are not given stimulation, which can sometimes lead to anxiety and destructive behaviours such as chewing. Much like the Alaskan Malamute, the Alaskan Shepherd is a stubborn breed and they enjoy their independence just as much as they enjoy company. They will happily walk all over their owners if they are allowed to and owners need to be as strong-willed as their dogs to prevent any destructive or dominant behaviours from developing. For that reason, we do not recommend the Alaskan Shepherd to first-time dog owners. Whilst Alaskan Shepherds are very friendly towards humans, they can be aggressive to other dogs and pets within the home. They should be socialised with other dogs at a young age to prevent aggression in later life. The breed is suitable to live with children, but they should always be supervised when around young children due to their large size and build. Alaskan Shepherd Health Note: If you have any health concerns about your dog, please speak to a registered vet. The expected lifespan of an Alaskan Shepherd is 10 to 13 years. As with all dog breeds, the Alaskan Shepherd is prone to certain health problems in their lives. The main health concerns to look out for are: Obesity — Both the Alaskan Malamute and German Shepherd are prone to obesity caused by overeating. Chondrodysplasia — an abnormal growth of cartilage that results in disproportionate dwarfism, sometimes seen in the Alaskan malamute. Degenerative Myelopathy — a progressive disease of the spinal cord in older dogs that can eventually result in the inability to move the hind legs, more commonly seen in the German Shepherd. These are all typical concerns of large dog breeds. As the owner of an Alaskan Shepherd, there are several health tests you can ask for at the vet to ensure their health is on the right track. Booking them in for these tests on regular occasions once yearly for example can help to identify any of the above-mentioned health problems early. The recommended health tests for an Alaskan Shepherd are: Elbow and hip evaluation DNA test for von Willebrand disease Ophthalmologist evaluation If you are adopting an Alaskan Shepherd puppy, make sure you have them vaccinated against preventable diseases and regularly worm and flea them. Alaskan Shepherd Exercise Needs Both the Alaskan Malamute and the German Shepherd were bred to be working dogs and as a result, require a lot of daily exercise to keep them occupied. It should be no surprise, therefore, that the Alaskan Shepherd is also a high-energy and high-endurance breed. The average Alaskan Shepherd will need around 60 minutes of activity a day but this will typically decrease with age. Alaskan Shepherds love the outdoors so having a large yard for them to run around is essential. They should also ideally live somewhere close by to parks or long walking trails to help fulfil their daily exercise needs. As previously mentioned, Alaskan Shepherds are highly intelligent breeds and they need plenty of ways to keep their mind stimulated throughout the day to prevent them from getting bored. The height of these crossbreeds varies from 21 to 24 inches. Males and females have little height difference. You can expect this crossbreed to have a medium-length, double coat. The colors of their coat can be a combination of black, gray, red, gold, and brown. This type of coat helps them cope with the extremely cold environment. The Malamute German Shepherds are diligent working dogs. On top of that, they are alert and aware of their surroundings. They make excellent watchdogs. They bark appropriately without being annoying and disturbing. They have keen senses to discern suspicious acts and people. Another trait it possesses is its affectionate nature. The gentle and loving German Shepherd Malamutes can come off as intimidating at first sight. In reality, they are fluffy and lovable dogs that enjoy the company of people. You must apply good researching techniques to locate professional breeders when it comes to crossbreeds. Professional breeders allow you to access the documents of the puppy, including health records and DNA testing. They also provide a suitable environment for the upbringing of the dogs. They will help you become reassured that the dogs will grow to have minimal problems regarding their health. Visit the breeders in their location is highly recommended. Another way to verify a breeder is through this visitation. You might think that another good place to acquire this crossbreed is through purchasing in pet stores. I advise against this method. As a breeding ground, the puppy mill has thousands of stories supporting the terrible conditions for breeding. The puppy mill does not provide the most suitable environment for rearing puppies. In this place, the puppies are forced to mate with one another and give birth. This mixed breed is relatively rare. There are some breed-specific and non-profit rescue centers all over the country. You can check out these rescue shelters to obtain a new fluffy companion. Their shedding process usually involves a lot of mess and hair, especially during periods with warm weather and when placed in a blistering environment. Brushing the coat needs to be done for three to five times per week. If your dog has a collar, remove it when brushing the coat, and do not leave out the neck area unkempt. You should pay attention to spots where tangles occur often, like the base of the ears. You can prevent loose hair from the brushing process by dousing the coat with water. Another tip for maintaining the shine of the coat is using a slicker brush instead of a pin brush. You can also get rid of loose hair and some debris by using the brush. If you notice that your dog is uncomfortable each time you brush or comb its coat, you should consider starting a desensitization training. The process starts with using your hands to familiarize the dog with the brushing activity. After some time, you may alternate between using a real brush or comb and using your hands. You can finally change to a full-time brushing with a slicker brush after a few weeks. The little parts of the Malamute German Shepherd Mix, such as its eyes, nose, nails, ears, and paws, must be cared for as well. You should check for ear infection signs like the accumulation of earwax. A cotton ball and an ear solution formulated for dogs are must-haves for sanitary ears. For dried and scaly paws, you may utilize Vaseline as treatment. The popular opinion of daily bathing for dogs is not advisable to follow. The indication for bathing the dog is its appearance or smell. You may use formulations with ingredients that are soothing to its skin, like aloe vera. It is important to determine some early signs of skin lesions. If you are unable to do the necessary steps for grooming, you should opt to bring your pup to a professional groomer in your locale. There are many innate and environmental factors affecting the health status of the crossbreed. Some of these factors are genetic make-up, the environment where it grew up, nutrition, and level of activity. There are some health problems with a predilection to one of the parent breeds. As a reliable owner, you must be cognizant of the health risks of this crossbreed. Obesity: This mixed breed tends to eat more than its requirement. This should be controlled because it makes the dog vulnerable to many diseases, such as back pains, cancer, and joint problems. Chondrodysplasia: This condition may lead to hip dysplasia. Degenerative myelopathy: This is an untreatable and progressive disorder that results to the inability to move the hind legs. Von Willebrand disease: It is a blood disorder that causes a lot of blood loss. One of the things you can do is to acquire vaccines. The recommended vaccines for puppies are rabies, measles, and a combination vaccine called DHPP. I strongly advise seeking the help of a trustworthy veterinarian to become knowledgeable on the signs and symptoms to watch out for. Malamute Crossed with German Shepherd Food Requirements There is no fixed quantity of food for a dog, even among those with the same breeds. You need the most appropriate diet that will result in the optimal condition of your dog. The general amount of food suitable for an adult German Shepherd Malamute mix dog may vary from 2 cups to 3 cups of high-quality food items. Two to three meals per day are advised for these crossbreeds. Your dog requires healthy bones and joints for its activity. It needs a healthy amount of calcium for that. Calcium will also aid in giving the best status of immunity. Another vital mineral for the development of bones and joints is phosphorus. Below is an inventory of the recommended dry food for the Malamute crossed with German Shepherd dogs. It includes nine simple key ingredients. It has a meat component that ensures a tasty and adequate amount of animal protein. It does not have any unhealthy additives. This brand has a 4, 12, or pound bags available. Purina HA Hypoallergenic: This hypoallergenic formulation is perfect for some dogs which may be predisposed to developing food intolerance and allergies. The optimal effect of this product is achieved by giving this alone for eight to 12 weeks. You can combine this food with other kinds of high-quality kibbles after the said period. It does not have allergenic materials like soy, whey, and gluten. It does not have artificial flavors. It contains Omega-6 fatty acids that help in moisturizing the coat and adding the healthy glow for the skin. It has easy-to-digest and organic components such as rice, chicken, and barley. It has reported on nutritional breakthroughs. It possesses prime chicken and customized fiber system for easy digestion. The German Shepherd Malamute mix may be at risk for overfeeding and obesity. An easy way to determine this is by doing the hands-on test and eye test. These two tests will require you to examine the dog beside you and looking at its waist from above. You will feel the ribs of the dog when you press down if the dog is not overweight. A positive result of this test should alert you as a responsible owner. A veterinarian can help immensely in managing the diet and other health concerns of your dog. You should consider involving one while planning for acquiring a new family member. Whether you adopt a big or small doggo, feed them only with premium-quality food to keep them happy and healthy all the time. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food , and get only the best dry dog food for your furry companion. If your furry buddy is still but a munchkin, consult our list of the best puppy food brands for nutrition ideas. In case your pooch is well past their prime, make sure to serve them only the best senior dry dog food to keep those frail bones, well, not so frail! Do remember that your adorable mixed pup carries the genes of their vastly different parents. They may inherit the palate of either, so you can offer them both the best dry dog food for small dogs and best large breed dry dog food and stick with the one they choose as their favorite! The period of physical activity engagement should be at least one hour. An appropriate blend of physical and mental stimulus for this mixed breed is necessary to avoid boredom and destructive behaviors. Some examples of possible physical activities for the Malamute German Shepherd mix are hiking, fetching, and running. Another consideration for the exercise period is the venue for the activities. I recommend a big area in a well-ventilated place for this crossbreed. The Kong Ball is a widely known toy for mental motivation. The use of this toy will aid in the digestion and mental health of the dog. It comes in different sizes, so you can get a suitable one for your dog. The German Shepherd Malamutes have a notable strength in biting. It is an under-stuffed toy that has a squeaker. It is made of a tough material, perfect for hours of rough play. They could become hardheaded as well. Your contribution to the morale boost will help the process. Below are some guidelines on training this mixed breed: Limit the Duration of the Training Sessions: A way to prevent misbehaviors during the training sessions is keeping the sessions short. A great crate has a comfortable bed and optimum ventilation. The period for crate training varies from 30 minutes for younger puppies to eight hours for adult Malamute German Shepherds. This training will benefit the mental health of the dog as well. It will help in having a calm disposition, particularly during travels, and it will also ward of possible separation anxiety. Positive Rewards-based System: This training method avoids the classical penalty techniques when dogs misbehave. You can have a box of treats ready for the training sessions. You should also provide cuddles and words of encouragement and approval when the dog abides by the rules. Every dog has a unique way of following the commands. If you want to learn more about the proper techniques, you may opt to ask for some advice from professional trainers. It is essential to provide positive words and gestures to make the dog feel at home. One phase of the training a dog called early socialization is necessary for developing healthy coping mechanisms to a new environment and people. Early socialization will hone the puppy and help in becoming mature. This will contribute to their potential in becoming therapy dogs, service dogs, or herders. The owners will hold the puppy each day until four weeks. The next phase continues until 16 weeks of age. This phase involves exposing the puppy to various kinds of animals, people, textures, fragrances, and sceneries. The above-mentioned tips on training may be applied during early socialization. The Malamute German Shepherd dogs are generally good with children. They will give affection and friendliness to the little ones. You still need to be careful with the child-dog interactions, especially when the dog is still young. You must also teach your children how to respect and play with the dog within respectable bounds. This is a sled dog at its core, having great endurance and strength, which was a dog trait needed by ancestral owners in order to pull and carry heavy objects. He is sweet and family loving, loyal, and a highly capable watchdog. Read on to find out more. The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a hybrid dog. That is, a cross between the German Shepherd and the Alaskan Malamute. The Alaskan Malamute breed is believed to be descended from the dogs of hunters in the Paleolithic period. Roughly years ago, they crossed into North America from the land bridges of the Bering Strait. The dogs belonging to these people were domesticated from the wolf. Traditionally speaking, the Alaskan Malamute is part of the oldest sled dog breeds of the arctic. The German Shepherd breed was originally created for the purpose of herding sheep. These people combined various dog strains from the central and northern parts of Germany. This was in order to produce what would be known as the ancestors of the modern-day German Shepherd dog. The German Shepherd Malamute Mix vs. Purebred Debate Fans of mixed breed dogs argue that diversity makes them healthier than purebreds, with resulting fewer health problems. Those who are in favor of purebred dogs argue that they are healthier than mixes. They claim this due to better control over breeding, and therefore on the selection of genetic traits. This is a debate that is surely not going to be resolved anytime soon. They played the roles of two of the sled dogs, Buck and Shadow. The German Shepherd is quite the popular dog! Both parents have such similar features so you may see the input of both! Dogs of this mix have muscular bodies, possessing great strength and a sturdy frame. These dogs are well-suited for carrying significant weight and pulling sleds. They are 21 to 28 inches high, with a large weight range of 64 to pounds on average, corresponding to a medium and large size dog, respectively. They have a straight and medium-length double-coat consisting of a soft and dense undercoat and a thick, rough outer coat. Their coat colors are a combination of red, brown, gold, black, and grey. Their eyes are brown, hazel, or blue, and their nose is black or brown. German Shepherd Malamute Mix Temperament This is an affectionate and loyal dog, known for being very attached to their families. They inherit this quality from both parents. These dogs are wonderful around children, however, adult supervision around smaller children is recommended because of the large size of this dog. They make good guard dogs due to their ability to keep a vigilant eye on strangers. German Shepherds in particular tend to be cautious of strangers and sound the alarm when unfamiliar people arrive. This is a strong-willed dog with an independent streak. German Shepherds and Alaskan Malamutes are both loyal and loving dogs towards their families, and naturally the mix has this tendency as well. The exceptional intelligence and courage of the German Shepherd is a characteristic that may be passed on to the mix. So it is important to keep this dog active and mentally stimulated. Training Your German Shepherd Malamute mix Early socialization is important to curb any aggressive tendencies this dog may have towards strangers or other animals. The natural tendency of this dog towards independent and even stubborn behavior requires consistent and firm training from the puppy stage. Positive training methods are best. Due to the large size and physical attributes of this dog, he needs regular exercise, such as walking, hiking, or jogging to satisfy its high energy and endurance levels. At least an hour of physical activity a day is ideal. German Shepherd Malamute mix Health Both parent breeds have health issues. While the German Shepherd is an above average healthy dog with few health concerns, it does have a few health issues to watch for, such as degenerative myelopathy and elbow and hip dysplasia. These are common to the mix as well. Additional common health problems which the German Shepherd Malamute mix has are:. They were bred as working dogs, and their original purpose was to herd sheep. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. They were originally bred by the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska as sled dogs. While they are known today as one of the more popular designer breeds, these two breeds were not mixed until the early s, when people began to cross them for their working abilities. They are strong and athletic, with a muscular build. German Shepherds are inches tall at the shoulder. Alaskan Malamutes are one of the largest dog breeds, weighing in at pounds. Their typical height is inches at the shoulder. Malamutes are thickly built, with a broad chest and strong legs. They have a dense coat of fur that can be either short or long. The German Shepherd Malamute mix will usually take after its Alaskan Malamute parent in terms of size, but there is some variation. These dogs typically weigh between 50 and 85 pounds and stand inches tall at the shoulder. They may have the short coat and sleek build of the German Shepherd or the thick fur and broad chest of the Alaskan Malamute. Their coat colors are typically black, brown, or gray; however, they can also inherit the white markings of the German Shepherd. Like both of their parents, this mix has a strong and muscular build. They are a medium to large breed of dog that is very athletic. They will typically have almond-shaped eyes, and their ears may be pointed or floppy. Their tail is usually bushy and thick. These dogs are typically loyal, loving, and affectionate. They are also very protective of their family and may be suspicious of strangers. German Shepherds were originally bred as working dogs, so they are very intelligent and trainable. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their family. Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred as sled dogs, so they are very strong and athletic. However, they are also very affectionate with their family. This results in a mix that is very intelligent and trainable yet an independent thinker who can be stubborn at times. These dogs are also very affectionate with their family and make excellent protectors. However, they may be suspicious of strangers, so socialization is important from an early age. While this mix is an intelligent breed, poor breeding practices can result in your dog having behavioral issues as they age. They are also quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement. As with all dogs, early socialization is important for this mix. This will help them to be less suspicious of strangers and reduce the likelihood of aggressive or destructive behavior. This mix can be stubborn at times, so patience and consistency are important. They respond well to positive reinforcement, such as treats or praise. Puppy obedience training is a great way to socialize your puppy and start them on the path to good behavior. Exercise Needs This mix is a very active breed of dog that needs plenty of exercise. They are also very strong and have a lot of energy. These dogs need at least an hour of daily exercise and prefer to be outdoors. Daily walking or running is a great way to meet their exercise needs. German Shepherd Alaskan Malamute mixes also enjoy playing fetch, swimming, and hiking. They are also very intelligent and need mental stimulation, so interactive dog toys or puzzle games are a great way to keep them entertained. Overall, this mix is a great breed of dog for first-time owners or active people or families. They are a loving and affectionate breed, yet also make excellent protectors. They can be a great addition to any home with proper training and exercise. They also have an outer coat that is coarse and thick. A slicker brush or another shedding brush can help to remove loose hair and reduce shedding. Bathing These dogs also benefit from a soothing shampoo that is designed for dogs with sensitive skin. Additional grooming may be necessary if your dog has any mats or tangles in their coat. Ears This mix has erect ears that should be checked regularly for dirt or wax build-up. Cleaning with a cotton ball and dog-safe ear cleaner can help to prevent infections. Nails The nails of the German Shepherd Malamute mix grow quickly and should be trimmed regularly. Dental chews or bones can also help to keep their teeth clean and healthy. Overall, this mix is a high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. However, regular brushing and occasional baths will help to keep their coat looking their best. However, like all breeds of dogs, they are susceptible to certain health conditions. Degenerative myelopathy is a degenerative disease of the spinal cord that can cause paralysis in the hind legs. Hip dysplasia is a condition that affects the hip joint and can cause pain and lameness. Elbow dysplasia is a condition that affects the elbow joint and can also cause pain and lameness. All of these conditions can be debilitating and cause a decrease in quality of life. Fortunately, there are treatments available for all of the above-mentioned health problems. Overall, this mix is a generally healthy breed of dog. However, they are susceptible to certain health conditions that can be debilitating. Nutrition Requirements The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a high-energy breed of dog that requires a high-protein diet and is rich in fat. Dry dog food that is designed for large breeds is a great option for this breed. They should be fed between two to three times per day. A regular feeding schedule is important for this breed to help prevent bloat while maintaining suitable weight levels. Typical dog food brands to consider for this breed include Blue Buffalo, Wellness, and Taste of the Wild. Table scraps should be avoided as they can cause weight gain and digestive issues. Doggie treats, on the other hand, can be given in moderation. However, certain dogs may view this breed as a threat due to their size and energy level. This can be done by taking them to the dog park, doggie daycare, or dog walking. Due to their size, they are naturally more comfortable around larger dogs. With early training and socialization, however, this mix can integrate and socialize with most other dogs. However, their energy levels can be a bit much for smaller children. This breed is best suited for families with older children who can handle their high energy levels. Families with small children should consider another breed of dog that is more suitable for their lifestyle. Some examples of breeds that may be more suitable for families with small children include the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Drooling Levels This breed of dog is known to drool moderately. While they are not considered to be a slobbering breed, they may drool more when they are excited or hungry. They also require some maintenance when it comes to cleaning up drool, but it is not excessive. A damp cloth or baby wipes are generally all that is required to help to keep the area around their mouth clean. Barking Levels This breed of dog is known to bark moderately. They may bark when they are excited or when someone is at the door. However, with proper training, this behavior can be controlled. Barking collars are also an option but should only be used as a last resort. Positive reinforcement training is the best way to help control moderate barking in this breed of dog. Adaptability to Weather The German Shepherd Malamute mix is a breed of dog that is very adaptable to different weather conditions. They are comfortable in both hot and cold weather. They can typically handle temperatures as high as 85 degrees Fahrenheit. They can typically handle temperatures as low as 20 degrees Fahrenheit. Overall, this mix is a very versatile breed that can adapt to most weather conditions. This is a relatively long lifespan for a large breed dog. While this breed is growing in popularity, it has not yet been officially recognized by the AKC. The AKC does not currently recognize any mixed breeds. However, they are working on a new pilot program that may eventually lead to AKC recognition for some mixed breeds, including this mixed breed. This price can vary depending on the breeder, the location, and the overall demand for the breed. Avoid buying a puppy from a pet store, as these puppies often come from puppy mills and may have health problems. This fee goes towards supporting the rescue organization and helps to cover the costs of caring for the dog. They are loyal, protective, and loving dogs that thrive on being close to their family. This breed requires a lot of exercise and training, but they are very intelligent dogs that are eager to please.

We highly recommend doing your research and looking up as many breeders as you can find before you purchase your Airedoodle. You will likely find that each breeder is unique and has something unique to offer. If your heart is set on adopting a dog, you can ask your local shelter if there are dog mixes that resemble the Airedoodle. You might be lucky enough to find an Airedoodle, but it might be rare. Smarty pant parents The Poodle parent of the Airedoodle is the second smartest dog breed, beaten only by the Border Collie. They love to play games like fetch, and also like to go on long walks. They get along well with other pets, and they are curious, so they make great watchdogs. They are very loyal and like to stay close to family members. They also want to learn and enjoy training exercises that bring them praise and treats. They are extremely intelligent and quickly learn tricks and can solve most puzzles presented to them. They are also crafty and will find ways to communicate with you to let you know what they want. Are These Dogs Good for Families? Plenty of early socialization will help them get along better with pets and children, but they rarely have any problems in most situations. They are not much for barking, so they are great for apartments and cities. If you socialize them early, they will get along with other pets even better and will have no problem making friends on walks or when traveling. Occasional treats are ok , but you should always try to get your dog to do some mental or physical exercise before they receive a treat. Avoid using grain-free dog foods until you talk to your vet, as you should before switching to any brand of specialty food. They love to walk and games of fetch , so you will need to put aside at least a half-hour each day to devote to exercising with your pet. This half-hour will likely be enough on some days, but on other days, you may find your dog eager for a few more minutes of play. Often, you will need to spend and additional minutes with your pet to keep them happy. They learn very quickly, and after they catch on to a trick or two, you might find yourself teaching them multiple tricks at once. After a few tries, they will complete tricks on the first command, and they are also capable of complex multistep tricks. To teach your Airedoodle how to do a new trick stand in front of them repeating a phrase like sit, stay, or paw. When your pet figures out what you are asking of it and completes the trick, let them have a treat. Repeat this training session one or two more times, and then try it a few times the next day and each day after until your pet learns the trick and does it on the first command. Your Airedoodle is going to require regular trimmings , as well as brushing and shampooing to keep their hair looking the best. It can also improve their well-being as knotted hair can pull on the skin and become painful. You will also be required to trim the nail and brush the teeth of your Airedoodle regularly to promote dental health. Minor Conditions Cataracts Dogs can get cataracts the same as humans do. A change in the water balance of your eye lens is the primary cause, and it results in a cloudy lens. The cloud prevents light from hitting the retina, which makes it harder to see and can cause blindness. Symptoms include a cloudy or foggy looking eye, and you should take your pet to the vet immediately if you notice this symptom Bloat Bloat is a common condition in dogs that requires immediate medical attention. It can reduce blood flow to the heart and tear the stomach. Symptoms can come on very quickly and include drooling, restlessness, pacing, and failed attempts to vomit. Serious Conditions Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a disease that resembles arthritis in dogs that can affect any breed but is especially prevalent in larger dogs. Early symptoms include lethargy, difficulty getting up or sitting down, and even whimpering. If you experience your pet displaying any of these symptoms, we recommend getting them to the vet immediately. Obesity Another major condition affecting all breeds of dogs is obesity. A medical condition can cause obesity, but often its caused by improper diet paired with little or no exercise. Obesity is especially prevalent in larger, more active breeds that struggle to get the large amounts of exercise that they require to stay healthy and stave off obesity. Other than the slight size difference, there is very little to tell the males from the female Airedoodles. You can be one of the first to own this unique and intelligent breed. We hope that you have enjoyed reading about the Airedoodle and we have enticed you to investigate them further. If you have found nit helpful, please share this in-depth guide to the Airedoodle on Facebook and Twitter. See also:. Life Span Did You Know? The Airedoodle is a designer mixed dog breed that is a cross between an Airedale Terrier and a Standard Poodle. The Airedoodle is meant to inherit the best characteristics of both the parent breeds, but they could have any combination of characteristics from either or both of the parent breeds. Airedoodles tend to be friendly, intelligent, loyal, and energetic dogs with a big personality. Because the Airedoodle is a mixed dog breed, they are not recognized by the American Kennel Club. With any mixed dog breed, the puppies can inherit any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Airedoodles tend to be intelligent, friendly, and filled with personality. They tend to get along well with children as well as other dogs and sometimes other pets. They can have a stubborn streak and may have a high prey drive, but early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies. Overall, Airedoodles tend to make excellent family pets and watchdogs. Airedoodles are larger sized dogs with a high energy level, which makes them a moderately adaptable dog breed. Because of this, they are best suited to larger homes with fenced-in yards where they can run. They do well in most climates, but, as with many dog breeds, are sensitive to extreme heat or cold. Although they can have an independent streak if they take more after their Airedale Terrier parent, they still thrive on being with their families. They are also highly intelligent and can be easily bored, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. For the Airedoodle, potential health conditions can include skin issues, hip dysplasia, and bloat. Talking to the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances can help allay potential health concerns. Both of the Airedoodle parent breeds are highly intelligent. This means they tend to pick up on training quickly. If an Airedoodle takes after its Poodle parent, they will be highly trainable and a good fit for owners of any experience level, including first-time dog owners. If an Airedoodle takes after its Airedale Terrier parent, they can have a stubborn streak that may be an obstacle for first-time dog owners. Puppy training and obedience classes are recommended for novice dog owners to ensure training is effective and consistent. The Airedoodle is likely to have a low-shedding coat as both of its parent breeds have low-shedding coats. Professional grooming can help you take care of some of this, but you will need to take care of these grooming tasks as needed between professional grooming sessions. Nails that are too long can make movement painful, are more likely to split and crack, and increase the risk of getting caught on things. Dental care for dogs is another essential grooming task. Unfortunately, it is also often overlooked, which is why dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Just as you need to brush your teeth every day, the same is true for your dog. This helps prevent the tartar buildup that leads to dental disease like gum disease, tooth decay, or tooth loss. Daily walks plus some time to run and play are usually sufficient for this dog. A fully-grown Airedoodle usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. An Airedoodle generally lives years. This hybrid dog breed is most commonly called an Airedoodle, but it is sometimes also referred to as an Airedalepoo. Featured Airedoodle Article.

From there we began showing dairy goats, angora goats, and pygmy goats in 4-H, FFA, and open shows from .When my son went off to college, we decided to sell off our dairy goat herd and focus on our Pug Breeding Program. Once we were able to focus on our Pug Breeding Program more we began to search for pugs of unique colors that we didn't already own. In I quit my job, and started breeding pugs full time. My new job title is a "Stay at Home Pug Mommy". Instead we retire them and they live out the remainder of their lives here at Tipping Point Farm, playing, eating, sleeping day after day, and spending time with our family. After all, Pugs are the ultimate companion and mans best friend. They will always be there for you no matter what, whether they are trying to cheer you up, steel your food, or give you kisses. With such a large demand for our pugs, I have now brought in my mom's dogs to be a part of my breeding program, so everyone is able to have their own Tipping Point Farm Pug. My Mom owns a farm thirty minutes away from me where she lives and raises her own pugs with help from me. On February 11th, , my first pug, "Cheese", the one who started it all passed away suddenly. The whole family was devastated after learning of her passing and spending so many years with such a great dog. I was heart broken, I lost my best friend. This one dog was the reason behind my whole pug breeding program. I loved this dog so much that I wanted to breed pugs so everyone could have "their own Cheese". After all, Pug love is like no other, you are their world and they become a family member. Even though Cheese is no longer here with us, I know that I am lucky enough to have got to spend so many years with her and have her daughters, grand daughters, and great grand daughters. When it comes to our pugs, Health is our 1 priority and then of course color! From day one, we are directly involved with our puppies, we help them come into the world and love them everyday till they go to there new family. Please feel free to call or email me anytime you have a question or are interested in a pug. Thank you for taking the time to read the Story behind our farm. We are looking forward to hearing from you and your family and to adding a new member to your family. I apologize for this and will be back to keeping up with my website for .As soon as we learned of the diagnosis, we made arrangements to meet with the surgeon. Unfortunately after the scans were taken, a spot was found on his liver which gave him a terminal diagnosis 2 months without chemo, 6 months with chemo. In March of he opted to start a chemo regiment every 3 weeks to hopefully extend his life expectancy. During the next few months him and I created a bucket list of things he wanted to do, which we were able to complete in between his visits to the hospital and chemo treatments. In August his cancer was reassessed to see if the chemo treatments had been working. The results were heartbreaking, the chemo hadn't worked and his body was full of cancer. Within a month of this heart breaking news my fathers health deteriorated, he was back and forth between hospice and the emergency room until he lost his battle to cancer on September 22, .My fathers loss has been extremely difficult, but I am now able to start focusing on my breeding program once again. As of right now we have big plans for .For more information about our plans, please contact me with any inquiries regarding current and future puppies or keep checking back for updates. We appreciate your patience and look forward to adding the newest fur-member to your family. Life Span Did You Know? The Pug, or Pug Dog, is famous for its flat-faced appearance and large, soulful eyes. They are an ancient dog breed that originated in China over 2, years ago. They were originally developed as a refined pet of Chinese royalty along with the Pekingese and the Shih Tzu. During this time, the Pug was considered a national treasure that outsiders could only access if one was gifted to them. Dutch traders from the s can be credited with bringing the Pug onto the world stage when they brought some back to Europe with them. The Pug made its way to the United States in the s. Now, the Pug is a popular dog breed worldwide. They are a popular companion that provides their owners with plenty of love and laughter from their comedic and playful antics. The Pug is a playful and outgoing dog breed with a charming personality. They tend to be very loving towards children and also get along well with other pets and dogs. They are a companion breed at heart known for their gentle nature and sociable personality. They love to give love and receive it in return. Their sensitive nature makes them intuitive as well and Pugs will often sense the moods of their owners and react accordingly. They crave attention and affection from their owners and are big fans of napping. This dog breed is often described as an ideal house dog and they are moderately adaptable. They will do well in homes of any size, including apartments. The Pug also adapts well to city or country life and are a good fit for singles or families of any size. Although they are highly adaptable to various living situations, they are less adaptable to climates. Pugs are very sensitive to the heat and overexertion, so they are best-suited to moderate climates. They also love to be with their families and will not be happy if left alone for a long time. As with any dog breed, the Pug has some health conditions to be aware of. In particular, corneal ulcers and dry eye are some potential eye problems that can occur. Additionally, Pugs can be susceptible to hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and encephalitis. Asking the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and to see health clearances can help allay concerns for some of these health issues. Pugs are also big foodies. They love to eat! Their love for food means this dog breed is prone to obesity. As a brachycephalic dog, their large head and short snout often cause respiratory problems, which can limit their exercise at times and contribute to weight gain. This will cause them to quickly gasp and snort, which can sound relatively alarming. These episodes are usually not harmful as your Pug is just clearing their palate and throat. The Pug tends to be easy to train and is a good fit for owners of any experience level. They are eager to please their owners and tend to pick up on commands quickly. They are sensitive souls and their feelings can be hurt easily, so they will not respond well to harsh corrections. This dog breed responds best to consistent training that focuses on positive rewards and will benefit from participation in puppy training classes. Pugs have a smooth, glossy, and short coat. Their fur is fine and soft. Although their coat is generally low-maintenance, it will shed throughout the year. Aside from brushing, Pugs only need occasional baths on an as-needed basis. Because Pugs have ears that drop down, they can be susceptible to moisture, dirt, or debris. Checking their ears regularly and cleaning as needed helps to keep them healthy and comfortable. The same goes for their iconic face wrinkles. Daily brushing is ideal, but if your Pug is not allowing you to do that, a few times a week should be sufficient. Getting your Pug used to these grooming tasks as a puppy will help make it a positive bonding experience and a much easier process throughout their life. This dog breed has a low to moderate energy level. Generally, daily walks and some play sessions are enough exercise for this dog breed. They may have short bursts of energy as they have a very playful nature, but they will tire easily. Some Pugs can handle a little more activity and even compete in some dogs sports like agility, rally, and obedience. Make sure you check with your vet first before jumping into dog sports with your dog. A full-grown Pug will usually stand 10 to 11 inches tall at the shoulders and weigh between 14 and 18 pounds. This dog breed generally lives for years. The Pug was a popular pet of the Buddhist monasteries in Tibet. Featured Pug Article. They are bouncy, tail wagging, cuddle bugs, the cutest things ever! Uncle Al lives in our "apartment", the walkout basement downstairs. We help Uncle Al with his Pugs. They are wonderful caring moms! When our moms retire we have them spayed and offer them to pet only homes for about half the cost of a puppy. They will be on the retired parent page at that time. Diva will be available this late winter or spring .See the other pages: "About our puppies," "what comes with your puppy", and " is a puppy really right for you. Or maybe adopt a rescued adult Pug. Rescue is always the best! Do your homework, since a rescued dog needs a home appropriate for their needs as much as a puppy! A puppy is a very serious decision. Please do not get a puppy or a dog if you have any hesitation about long term responsibility of a furry best friend. We love our puppies and dogs and only want them in a home where they will be a part of the family! If interested in a puppy please email or call. Remainder due on pick up. Pugs are heat and cold sensitive. Not at all a 'hiking in all weather' type of dog. Some are amazingly agile, fast, and athletic and do tolerate a wider range of temperature. Others are at risk of collapsing if overheated when simply out on a warm day and playing. Many make terrific therapy dogs. They are very tolerant of children. Puppies available now! All puppies are kept current on vaccinations, dewormed several times, microchipped, and well socialized. Puppies are microchipped and current on vaccinations. Nikki black and Boris fawn had puppies 1 white female available, updated .Photos taken , at 4. They have grown so much but look the same, update, they are 14 week old.

Share Tweet As a new dog owner, you certainly want to turn your home into a pet-friendly space to make your dog safe and comfy. Are stairs bad for French bulldogs might be one of the most common questions you would like to reveal. Are stairs bad for French bulldogs? If you live in a home full of stairs, your Frenchie might find it difficult to climb them multiple times a day. Frenchie puppies are on a higher tendency to develop injuries, so the best way to prevent them from falling is to restrict them to use stairs. Our suggestion is to install a sort of gate that will make your dog unable to reach them. As your puppy grows and becomes more skillful, you can gradually teach him to safely use the stairs. Unfortunately, some pooches will never be able to climb the stairs without showing certain difficulties. French bulldogs with hip dysplasia and other skeletal deformities will always need mechanical support to perform daily activities. When are stairs bad for French bulldogs? The best safety tips Improve visibility and supervise your dog If you live with a senior French bulldog , then you should light up the stairs with a night lamp to make them safer for usage. Senior pooches often deal with mobility issues due to the loss of cartilage in joints. A dog who deals with pains during using stairs will whine, pace, and show strange signs of body language. Put non-slipping covering By adding a non-slipping surface such as carpets and other types of flooring covers onto the wooden stairs will prevent your dog from falling. Pay special attention during winter Dog owners often forget about keeping their dogs safe in the winter. Even though our pets have claws, they need extra support to improve traction on icy surfaces. Therefore, besides using a pet-friendly ice melt on your outdoor stairs, we recommend you buying high-quality French bulldog boots with a non-slipping surface. Install a dog ramp If your Frenchies shows mobility issues, then you should start considering to install a dog ramp. They are especially suitable for senior dogs who need support. If your pet shows any sign of discomfort and feels frightened, we suggest you leaving snacks on the ramp to encourage him. What type of dog ramp to choose for my Frenchie? A dog ramp should also be high enough to reach stairs properly, otherwise, there may be a possibility of getting an injury. Whatever ramp you choose, just make sure you teach your dog how to use it. You might need to invest some time and energy to make him relaxed and confident which is the most important thing to keep in mind. Post navigation. When choosing to add a dog to your family, you must consider the breed's common traits, common health issues, your lifestyle, and your home. While French Bulldogs are trendy, they also have many special needs and are not right for every family. One consideration should be the number of stairs in your home or leading to your home, that your potential French Bulldog would have to climb. Though this beloved breed is notorious for having serious health issues, they are generally small and not heavy. Could you carry your Frenchie up and the down the stairs multiple times a day? Or were you hoping they would be able to navigate the stairs themselves? So, can French bulldogs climb stairs? Yes, they can. Most of them can easily go upstairs, but struggle to go downstairs. Younger French bulldogs generally have an easier time climbing stairs than senior Frenchies. Unfortunately, French bulldogs are prone to several health issues that stairs may inflict or worsen. What makes stairs difficult for French Bulldogs? According to Dr. Some of the health issues they are predisposed to impact their ability to go up and down the stairs. If their joints are impacted, their physical ability to go up and down the stairs is limited. These conditions can make their joints painful, and navigating the stairs can worsen them: According to VCA Hospitals , Patellar luxation occurs when a dog's knee cap dislocates. If your Frenchie has experienced any knee issues, using the stairs can cause the issue to reoccur, or just be painful to perform. Surgical intervention may be required for this condition. As such, if your Frenchie has knee problems, it is recommended that he be carried up and down the stairs to prevent future injuries. According to French Bulldog Owner , Hip dysplasia occurs when a Frenchie's hip joint and thigh displace. Although this is most often seen in large breed dogs, Frenchies have been known to suffer from it. The ability to use their hips is crucial to being able to navigate the stairs. According to CannaPet , Hemivertebrae causes a Frenchie's spine to be misaligned as a result of fused or abnormally shaped vertebrae. If his back hurts, a Frenchie will struggle with the stairs. This condition usually does not impact the French Bulldog's ability to live their best life; it often goes untreated. However, some dogs require surgical intervention. According to FrenchieWiki , Intervertebral Disc Disease is a painful condition caused by the spinal discs between the spinal vertebrae bulging or herniating into spinal cord space. This condition can be caused by forceful jumping and landing; making the stairs a possible trigger for the condition. Frenchies who are already afflicted should not navigate the stairs. Degenerative Myelopathy is luckily rarely seen in French Bulldogs. However, it is a serious condition and Frenchies have been diagnosed with it. It is a progressive disease that impacts the spinal cord and causes the loss of coordination in the hind legs, difficulty standing, and buckling legs. This disease can act quickly; most patients become paralyzed within six months to one year of diagnosis. These patients should not navigate stairs. If their vision is affected, they will have trouble seeing where to put their paws, and they may fall down the stairs as they try to climb them: Distichiasis occurs when a Frenchie's eyelashes grow in an abnormal direction or location. Distichiasis causes patients to blink and squint; the inability to keep eyes open can lead to falling down the stairs. Left untreated, this condition leads to blindness. Dogs with any vision difficulties should be carried up and down the stairs, as their vision loss can cause them to fall and be injured. This condition is hereditary. Cataracts are clouds on the eye's lens. This is most often seen in senior Frenchies, but dogs of any age may develop them. The main result of cataracts is vision impairment, especially in dim areas. Your Frenchie will most likely ask you for assistance to get up and down the stairs if they are afflicted with this condition. The good news is that cataract surgery has a ninety percent success rate. What factors impact are French Bulldogs being able to climb stairs? There are several factors that impact their ability to climb stairs, such as: 1. Health You may think that the biggest factor would be age; after all, stairs are no friend to senior dogs suffering from arthritis. In fact, age is the second biggest factor. The first is the French Bulldog's health. A French Bulldog of any age will struggle with stairs if they have serious medical conditions that impact their joints, back, and vision. These three physical abilities are needed to successfully navigate the stairs. Joint and vision health problems that French Bulldogs are prone to include: Intervertebral Disc Disease, hip dysplasia, Hemivertebrae, Degenerative Myelopathy, Patellar luxation, Distichiasis, and Cataracts. Age Senior French Bulldogs are most likely to suffer from the joint issues common to the breed, and they are most likely to have arthritis, which makes the mobility needed to navigate stairs difficult. Life Experience A French Bulldog's life experience will color how they view the stairs. A Frenchie who was abused may have been thrown down the stairs; a Frenchie rescued from a puppy mill may never have experienced stairs, or perhaps he may have fallen down the stairs like a puppy. Any negative experience Frenchie associates with the stairs will cause him to be frightened of them. With patience and positive reinforcement training, your rescue Frenchie will be climbing the stairs in no time if their health permits. A rescued adult French Bulldog had a totally different life before they became a part of your family. Keep that in mind and have patience with them as they adjust to their new status of royalty. How can you train your French Bulldog to climb stairs safely? As you follow their instructions to train your French Bulldog, keep the following in mind: These little bat-eared angels are prone to tracheal collapse and heat stroke, so be sure to use caution when using a collar to apply pressure as demonstrated in the video and be sure to train your French Bulldog inside your home when the weather is hot. If your French Bulldog is very frightened of the stairs, you will need patience. Choose a time to begin training when you are calm to avoid becoming frustrated, which may frighten him further. Always choose a small flight of stairs to begin training on; the higher the staircase, the greater the chance of injury. Keep the sessions short and sweet; once your Frenchie has successfully climbed the stairs without your intervention a few times, end the session on a positive note with lots of attention and a few treats. Practice a few times a week until your Frenchie totally understands the drill. How can you make your stairs safe for your French Bulldog? A significant part of your French Bulldog's ability to climb stairs will be their confidence. There are a few things you can do to help the stairs be less threatening, such as: If your stairs are not carpeted, your French Bulldog may not like going up and down them because they do not feel comfortable with the slippery surface they must climb. Purchase stair treads and or treaded socks to give them some traction. Sit on the bottom step of the stair case in your home and invite your French Bulldog to sit with you there to be petted. Encourage any guests visiting your home to do the same. This will help him associate the stairs with something positive that he loves; attention. Leave your Frenchie's favorite toy or snack on the third or fourth step from the bottom. He will be motivated to practice using the stairs to get to this prize. Summary While your puppy may initially have no problems climbing up and down the stairs, as they grow older, they may develop health issues that seriously impede, or totally prevent, their ability to navigate stairs independently. If you live in a house with lots of stairs, or many flights of stairs leading to your home without an elevator and will not be able to carry your French Bulldog up and downstairs, this may not be the best breed for you. If you still want a Frenchie, perhaps consider moving to a one-level home, or relocating to a ground-level apartment. Shannon Cutts As a freelance pet writer and blogger, Shannon is passionate about crafting knowledge-based, science-supported articles that foster healthy bonds of love and respect between people and animals. But her first and very most important job is as a dog auntie and cockatiel, tortoise, and box turtle mama. We are compensated for referring traffic and business to Amazon and other companies linked to this site. Overweight Less mobile To know whether your dog could struggle, you need to understand what makes the stairs difficult for some animals, and what common problems affect mobility in French Bulldogs in particular. There are a few reasons why stairs can be an intimidating obstacle for any dog. Going Downstairs Is Harder Than Going Upstairs You might notice a difference between your Frenchie trying to go down the stairs as opposed to climbing up them. Although you might think of climbing as harder, most dogs actually find it much more difficult to go down the stairs. On the way down though, they practically have to fall forwards and catch themselves with every step. For Frenchies, this is even more tricky, because of their tiny little legs! It Can Be Scary Instinctively, dogs sometimes view a staircase as if it were a cliff. If anxiety is the problem, you can help your dog to overcome it by giving them a bit of guidance and taking things slowly one step at a time! Start with a smaller set of steps and show your dog it is safe by going down yourself first. Then, you need to reassure your Frenchie, but let them have a go at their own pace. When they do make it, give them lots of praise and affection for being so brave. They May Have Had Bad Experiences Unfortunately, some dogs will have made mistakes on the stairs or had an unfortunate fall of some kind in the past. This can really add to their anxieties, and will certainly make it more intimidating to try again. It Takes a Lot of Effort One of the biggest reasons why French Bulldogs struggle, in particular, is that they are pretty small dogs, and they are not often very agile. It takes a lot of energy and flexibility to climb a bunch of stairs, which is pretty off-putting. How often do you choose the elevator when you have the chance? Of course, any mobility problems can make the whole ordeal significantly harder, if not impossible for some Frenchies. Health issues are, unfortunately, very common among French Bulldogs and some of them can really affect how easily they might be able to climb up or down a set of stairs. Hip Dysplasia Hip Dysplasia is a pretty common issue for Frenchies, and it can be very painful. This leads to arthritis, pain, and a lack of mobility in their legs. It basically occurs when there are malformations of the structure inside the leg which means that the patella a bone inside the knee joint pops in and out of place. Luxating patellas can wear down the ligaments over time and it often leads to a bow-legged stance, making it difficult for a Frenchie to perform complex movements like climbing the stairs. It causes the discs in the spine to slowly harden and reduces the amount of natural cushioning that they should have. It can cause a lot of pain and reduces flexibility and mobility. It causes pain and lessens mobility, and it is often worsened by strenuous exercise or additional stress like climbing stairs! If your Frenchie seems to be struggling with their mobility, then you should consult with a vet as soon as possible. There may be medications, physical therapies, or surgeries that could help them to get moving more easily again. Of course, you could do the heavy lifting yourself and carry your Frenchie up and down the stairs, but that can be a bit dangerous! So, can French Bulldogs go up and down stairs? Mostly yes, Frenchies are generally able to handle a staircase while they are still young and fit. It does take a lot of effort, though, and they can be hesitant to use them for all kinds of reasons. Smaller Frenchies, senior dogs, or those with mobility issues may not be able to tackle stairs at all. However, despite their popularity, they are prone to a wide range of health issues. Many of these issues can be triggered or made worse by jumping from higher surfaces too. As a result, more and more French Bulldog owners are introducing their pups to dog ramps in order to provide them with an impact-free way of getting on and off furniture. Why is it bad for French Bulldogs to jump on and off furniture? In addition to being a brachycephalic short-nosed breed, French Bulldogs are also a chondrodystrophic breed. These are dogs with short legs in comparison to the size or length of their bodies, which makes them have a higher risk of developing back and limb issues. As well, although French Bulldogs tend to have muscular bodies, they only reach heights of inches at the shoulder - making them shorter than nearly all couches and beds. Therefore, the impact from jumping off furniture can put a great deal of stress on their backs and joints and even aggravate spinal and joint conditions. If your French Bulldog likes spending time on your couch or bed, indoor dog ramps can give your pup an easier and safer way of enjoying his or her favorite hangout spots. This French Bulldog's owners chose to introduce their pup to a ramp in order to protect his joints. They shared: "We knew jumping on and off the couch would be really bad for their back and joints. It probably took a minute for him to start using it and now he has one for our bed as well. Thank you so much for making the ramps. I wish we could have them when we had our dachshunds many years ago. Like humans, dogs have intervertebral discs between each pair of vertebrae on their spine. These discs function as cushions and shock absorbers for the neck and back. IVDD occurs when the outer layers of these discs begin to harden prematurely. This makes it easier for a disc to bulge or burst after experiencing a harder impact or injury from a simple everyday activity, such jumping off furniture or wrestling. Following an emergency surgery to treat a herniated disc, Winston the Frenchie had to remain on crate rest for a minimum of 3 weeks. His paw-rents had to use a sling to support his body so that he could eat his meals. However, dog ramps can provide French Bulldogs with an impact-free means of accessing couches, beds, and other pieces of furniture. Karl the Frenchie thejaxkarlandkevinshow experienced a ruptured disc in his neck in early due to IVDD. After undergoing cervical spine surgery to correct the disc, Karl has made an incredible recovery. However, he now strictly uses his DoggoRamps to access the couch and bed. This helps him reduce the amount of stress he places on his back on a daily basis and can help decrease the chances of another disc flaring up. In , the 4-year-old Frenchie was not only diagnosed with IVDD but underwent two spinal surgeries due to the condition. It all started near the end of April when Winston showed a sudden change in behavior and no longer had interest in his favorite routines. He quickly started displaying signs of discomfort and experienced trouble holding himself up with his front legs. An MRI confirmed that Winston had a herniated disc in his cervical spine. He was immediately admitted for an emergency back surgery and had a very successful recovery. Winston the day after his first surgery. In order to operate on his cervical spine, his veterinary team had to make an incision along the upper part of his chest. Unfortunately, just a handful of months later, he experienced another disc extrusion - this time in his lumbar spine, where he lost function in his back legs. After undergoing yet another spinal surgery, weeks of rest, and physical rehabilitation, Winston is in the process of making another amazing recovery. He has regained control of his hind legs and is back to enjoying his daily walks outdoors. On top of taking a handful of additional precautions to reduce the chances of future episodes, such as prioritizing gentle play and avoiding stairs, Winston uses his DoggoRamps Couch Ramp to easily and safely enjoy his favorite hangout spots. Dogs with patellar luxation can usually be seen limping, skipping, or kicking while walking in order to snap their kneecaps back into place. Patellar luxation has varying levels of severity and even in its mildest form, it can cause dogs some discomfort and pain. The impact experienced from jumping off furniture can further exacerbate the condition as well. Introducing dogs with Patellar Luxation to ramps can help them reduce how much strain they put on their knees and help them enjoy a higher quality of life. While Hip Dysplasia is usually associated with large breeds, such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, Frenchies are prone to the condition as well. Rather than sliding smoothly, the ball and socket that make up the hip joint rub and grind causing the joint to deteriorate over time. The condition can cause dogs to experience discomfort, pain, decreased mobility, and lameness in their hind legs. Non-genetic factors can lead to the development of Hip Dysplasia too, such as excessive growth, certain types of exercise, injury, and improper nutrition. As an impact-free alternative to jumping on and off furniture, using dog ramps can help French Bulldogs decrease the amount of stress they put on their hip joints over time and allow Frenchies to easily and comfortably enjoy their home environments. After Hank got the hang of using his DoggoRamps Couch Ramp , thewindycityfrenchie's paw-rent wrote: "the ramp helps his joints and alleviates so much pain that he was getting from jumping. If you find yourself choosing between a dog ramp or pet stairs for your French Bulldog, a dog ramp will always be the better choice. This is less than ideal for breeds prone to back and joint issues as these impacts still put additional strain on their joints and spine. A dog ramp is the only solution that is entirely impact-free. Rocko's paw-rents introduced him to a ramp after the pup decided he had the potential to become the "Olympic champion of jumping off [their] high standing bed". They initially tried to get Rocko to use plastic steps, but he refused. When providing their feedback about the DoggoRamps Small Bed Ramp , his owners emphasized: "This ramp was a complete God send for keeping my pup healthy and safe. Bred as companion dogs, Frenchies love attention, cuddling, napping, and spending time with their owners. Dog ramps can provide them with the opportunity to easily and safely enjoy some of their favourite activities, such as snuggling up with their human on the couch or bed. As free-spirited dogs with outgoing personalities, many French Bulldogs are also known for getting bursts of energy where they often end up running and goofing around. Even though French Bulldogs are rather short, they have a muscular build and can weigh up to 30lbs. DoggoRamps allow French Bulldogs remain comfortable and safe while use a dog ramp. Low-Incline Design and Extra Wide Platforms All of our full ramps have a low-incline design and provide dogs with a more gradual slope to navigate when walking up and down. Reversible and Removable Safety Rails on Taller Dog Ramps DoggoRamps Bed Ramps feature a wide range of adjustable height settings so that they can work with virtually any bed - including tall beds. As a result, both bed ramps come with reversible and removable safety railings. These railings help block any jumping shortcuts off the ramp and guide dogs up and down the full length of the ramp. This extra feature is particularly important for shorter dogs using bed ramps, such as French Bulldogs, as the impact from jumping a distance times their height can put unnecessary strain on their bodies. They shared: "We've previously bought pet stairs for our French Bulldog puppy, Mochi, but felt that the stairs were not durable and stable. His paws would sink into the foam because of his weight. We decided to switch to a bed ramp instead because it is more secure especially with the safety rails and the soft, rubbery anti-slip surface. Also, it is adjustable to the height of our bed and the low incline design allows him to walk safely up to our bed as opposed to before when he would run up the stairs. To learn more about choosing a DoggoRamp for your French Bulldog, check out:. Reduced appetite and activity level Loss of bladder or bowel control Paralysis Treatment of IVDD in Frenchie dogs When you get to the vet, they will conduct a series of examinations. These will include x-rays, a neurological exam, CT scan or MRI in order to locate the source of the spinal injury. If the diagnosis reveals mild to average injuries, treatment may include the administration of anti-inflammatory medications. This is to reduce swelling and pain; your Frenchie will also have to be in confined rest for 4 to 6 weeks or more. If the diagnosis reveals a more severe case, you Frenchie may have to undergo surgery to open up the space around the spinal cord. Surgery has a higher chance of being successful if it is done within 24 hours of diagnosis and if the dog has not lost the ability to walk. In order to strengthen the muscles after surgery, post-surgical physical rehabilitation is often recommended. If surgery is not successful, a dog wheelchair may be recommended. This can help the dog to have a healthy and active life despite the disease. The fact that they are genetically prone to the disease does not mean they will fall ill. This eliminates extra stress on the neck and back. The ideal body shape for your Frenchie is one where the waist is visible and the ribs can be easily felt. Use a harness instead of a collar: You should only use a harness when walking your French bulldog. The Health Harness is vet approved and made especially for French Bulldogs' emotional and physical needs. Healthy diet: You should feed your Frenchie a high-quality diet that consists of animal protein. Animal protein is the first ingredient to promote lean muscle growth. You can find animal protein in raw meaty bones and raw meat. Kibble supply is artificial calcium supplements and not recommended. Avoid use of stairs and jumping: It is pretty hard to stop a dog from jumping as they like to be active. But you can create a controlled environment where jumping on and off the furniture should be prohibited. You could introduce a ramp or doggie stairs and train your French bulldog to only use that specifically. IVDD is a very serious issue. We Have the Information You Need to provide your Frenchie a long and healthy life When it comes to all round care of your Frenchie, we have all the information you need. Signing up to our Frenchie Blog will grant you a front row seat to all you need to know in order to take the best possible care of your furry friend. Leave a comment. Pin 0 Shares We have a nightly routine with our Frenchie. At around 8pm every night we let him come upstairs with us so he can watch TV on the bed with my wife and me. But, how easy does he find it climbing stairs, both up and down? Can French Bulldogs climb stairs? Yes, French Bulldogs can go up and down stairs, however some smaller Frenchies might find it a struggle, and there is a slight risk that it could lead to hip dysplasia or patellar luxation in older dogs. Going downstairs is trickier for them based on our personal experience. In my guide below you can find out whether stairs are bad for French Bulldogs, watch a video of our Frenchie using the stairs, and get some training tips. Can French bulldogs go up and down stairs by themselves? With Claude, our own Frenchie, he has never had any problems climbing stairs and was doing it himself from the age of around 5 months. In fact, you can see a video of him going up and down the stairs in our house that I shot on my iPhone below in more recent times. You will notice that our Frenchie has no problems climbing stairs at all. He has to climb stairs on a daily basis, because we live in a split-level home on a hill, and the only way to get into our kitchen after a walk is to climb some stairs up to the first floor of our home. Notice how he exhibits some swaying and shifting of weight on his hind legs and bottom a lot of the time I will carry him back down. However, our own personal experiences should not be viewed as a general answer, as not all Frenchies are the same. She was scared about climbing the stairs in our house and she had to be carried up and down. Are stairs bad for French Bulldogs? What could the risks be for a Frenchie climbing stairs? Are they bad for their health? In my personal opinion, as your Frenchie gets older, he might become prone to health problems concerning his spine, hips, and kneecaps. These health issues could become exacerbated by stair climbing. Your Frenchie could also tip and fall when coming down the steps. One of our Frenchie friends tried to start climbing the stairs at just 14 weeks. The French Bulldog breed is notorious for having extensive health problems you can read them all here , and stair climbing could end up making the following issues worse: Hip dysplasia: this is a canine genetic condition which commonly occurs in older Frenchies. It happens when a displacement occurs between the hip joint and thigh and will lead to walking difficulties and pain. Patellar luxation: this is the medical name for a kneecap dislocation and is another common health issues in French Bulldogs. It can occur due to knee trauma, as degenerative arthritis, or due to a genetic malformation. It is an age-related condition in most cases, but can still occur in younger dogs, in particular the French Bulldog breed. My advice to any French Bulldog owner, or someone considering buying a puppy for a home where you have lots of flights of stairs is to think very carefully. For example, if you live in a high-rise block of flats and apartments where your Frenchie will need to climb up and down numerous stairs on a daily basis, this might not be the right dog for you. But we are going to keep an eye on him as he gets older and will be checking for any warning signals of the health issues I highlighted above. Coming down stairs is harder for a French Bulldog As you saw in my video, Claude found it far easier to climb up our stairs than coming back down. With those short legs, muscular shoulders and chests, a Frenchie will be a little unbalanced when coming down stairs at an angle — it could lead to them falling. Handy hint: When Claude is going down stairs without being carried, I will always place my palm over the back half of his body just as precautionary measure in case he topples forward. Having spoken to other Frenchie owners they have said the same; going up is easier than going down. Based on that, I would take it easy, and recommend that you carry your French Bulldogs down the stairs if they are on a steep incline. What can you expect? We actually have to carry her down the staircase in the house. I have no idea why? Compare that to our other Frenchie puppy we had first, and he had no problems going up at down them t 8 weeks old. Our Frenchie was happy to go upstairs with no problem, but we have steep stairs so was very reluctant to go back down again. I would recommend having one person in front, and one person behind your Frenchie if possible. When Claude was 10 weeks old he was too young to start stairs climbing. I would recommend waiting until they are around 5 months. For dogs who are really anxious, it might be small steps with just a few each day until he gets braver. Clear the steps of any obstacles Your Frenchie could fall, so make it as easy as possible for him by making sure there is nothing on the steps that he could trip over. A fall or stumble could create a mental block with the dog, making it even harder to get them to navigate stairs in the future. Use treats as a reward Place some tasty doggy snacks on every other step. That gives your dog a reward for climbing the stairs and makes them work a little bit harder to get the next treat. Use positive reinforcement Positive reinforcement is a great way to train your Frenchie to use the stairs and revolves around using nothing but praise and encouragement. By rewarding your Frenchie with praise when he tries to climb the stairs it can lead to long-lasting results. What other owners say about step training Here are some more comments from other people who successfully trained their Frenchies to use the stairs in their house. We gave him one each time he got closer to the stairs. Then really encouraged him with lots of positive reinforcement when he would get close to doing it, and after that he just went for it. He was initially terrified, but I spoke to him and an encouraging tone of voice and praised him with every step. I tried to make it sound like I was having so much fun doing it myself. Now I have to tell him to slow down because he takes them so fast! It was the coming back down the stairs which presented a problem. He would stay at the top of the stairs whining until I picked him up and carried him down. This lasted for about 6 months, until I got him trained using treats and some positive reinforcement. Conclusion As you can see from my video and comments from Frenchie owners on Facebook, no one dog is the same. You might be lucky and have a French Bulldog who loves to climb stairs with no issues, you might have one who can only go up and not come down, or you might get one who point blank refuses. Each Frenchie will have his or her own character. This has to be due to the weight distribution in their body, and you can see that in the video I placed higher up the page. With the health concerns I outlined, these are things that you should think about as your Frenchie gets older and have regular health checks with the vet. The general consensus seems to be that if you do have a problem encouraging them, most of the time it will be with the coming down the stairs rather than going up.

Finding the perfect Golden Retriever for sale can be quite hectic and challenging. Before trying to buy golden retriever puppies, its important to get answers to few questions such as how much do golden retriever puppies cost, how much do golden retrievers cost and where to buy an Ideal Golden Retriever puppy online. We connect families with the best and most reputable Golden retriever breeders in the United States with a blink. Cheappuppiesforsale make it possible for you to buy your most caring golden retriever puppies for sale with Ease. The Golden Retrievers are wonderful with children, loving and loyal to their owners. They only need one thing from you, lots of love and attention. History and where to buy a golden retriever puppy The Golden Retriever was Originally bred from the Scottish Highlands as hunting dogs to catch waterfowl. The Scottish estate owners needed a dog that could retrieve birds either in water or on land because their hunting grounds had many ponds and marshes. As guns were improved, retrievers needed to be able to bring back birds from farther distances. The ideal Golden Retriever was developed by the Baron of Tweedmouth, Dudley Marjoribanks, who crossed a Tweed water spaniel with a yellow-colored retriever dog. The four pups were then used in further breeding with lines including the Irish setter, bloodhound, St. He kept detailed records throughout the later years of the 19th century, showcasing the goal of developing a dog with a soft mouth for retrieving game but that was also strong and active. During the early 20th century, Golden retrievers were introduced to North America as both a hunting dog and a companion. The golden retriever was officially recognized by the American Kennel Club in .Presidential golden retrievers include those owned by Gerald R. Ford and Ronald Reagan. The Golden Retriever dog breed is one of the most popular dog breed in USA and there are special reasons for their popularity. Golden Retriever puppies are very affectionate, loyal and loyal to the point of breaking. Golden Retrievers are loved by all, extremely intelligent, well-mannered, adorable yet gentle with children, and they tend to get along well with other pets and strangers. They are a wonderful pet for families due to their ability to be flexible, patient and ability to adapt. A golden retriever puppy is extremely easy to train due to the way they are smart and dedicated it is towards its owners. We do offer inter state delivery for all our puppies or You are welcome to visit and pick-up your chosen puppy. For more informations on price , pictures and videos do contact the ad directly thanks. .My adorable female golden retriever KAREN is proud to introduce to you her litter of 6 chunky golden puppies. They are 10 weeks old today and are exhibit character puppies. They have been under the constant supervision of a veterinarian and equally got top quality of build, angles and hairs. These healthy puppies have been bred well and also adapt quickly to a new environment being very social with kids and other animals. These puppies are potty trained and are fed mostly on dried diet. These adorable puppies are bundles of joy to every loving and careing familys willing to accept them as part of their homes. They have a champion-like origin. Both of their parents have always been part of my for generations and they are hips and elbows tested with the highest marks HD-A,ED-0, as well as eye tests. The puppies were cleared several times and they are vaccinated up todate. They will be coming along with all the followings ; -Vaccination certificate. Life Span Did You Know? The Golden Retriever has been an AKC-recognized breed since and was commonly used as a gun dog and for retrieving small game such as waterfowl, and for companionship. The Golden Retriever originated in the Scottish Highlands. The first Lord Tweedmouth, Dudley Majoribanks, is credited with developing the breed and keeping detailed records to create the ideal gun dog for the terrain. Great discipline and a gentle spirit make the Golden Retriever a perfect retrieval breed since the goal of this task is to bring the trophy back as undamaged as possible. Golden Retrievers first appeared in dog shows in at a British dog show. They also started appearing in the United States around the same time as they were brought across the Canadian border. They gained popularity with sport hunters and in general. Their popularity really took off in the s and they are consistently one of the most popular dog breeds. If you are not the sporting type, bringing a Golden Retriever into your family as a pet is just as rewarding because they are one of the most loyal and jovial breeds out there. One of the facts about Golden Retrievers is that they are the epitome of friendly and make fantastic family dogs. Golden Retrievers are considered one of the friendliest dog breeds. They tend to be good with kids, other dogs, other pets, and even strangers. Goldens love attention and they bond closely with their families. They are affectionate with them, and also just about everyone else. Although they do tend to get along with everyone, they love being around their favorite humans the most. They will bark to alert you and can end up barking a lot if you do not train your dog to stop barking early on. Golden Retrievers are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. They can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. These dogs do well in just about any climate, but are sensitive to heat. As one of the most affectionate dog breeds , they are not at all happy about being left alone for long periods of time. Although super-friendly and attention-loving, Goldens can also be sensitive to their surroundings; make sure they feel included, but have a quiet place to go if things get too noisy or overwhelming. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Retriever include progressive retinal atrophy, cataracts, elbow dysplasia , and hip dysplasia. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Goldens are considered one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. They are highly trainable dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. These traits make them a good fit for owners of all experience levels. It also helps them excel at obedience competitions. As one of the smartest dog breeds , Golden Retrievers can get bored easily. Because they pick up things quickly, they can get bored with too much repetition in training. If your dog has mastered the command, move on to something more advanced or another activity. You can also enroll in puppy training classes for some variety in training and also some socialization. Golden Retrievers have a long double coat that will shed a little year-round and will be heavier twice a year as the seasons change. Brushing a few times a week and daily brushing during seasonal shedding along with a bath as needed is usually enough for at-home care. You will want to go to the dog groomer for a professional trim a few times a year, especially as the seasons change. Nail trims once or twice monthly keep nails from growing too long. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. Golden Retrievers are one of the most active dog breeds. Daily walks plus some playtime, time to run, and other activities are usually enough to keep these dogs happy and healthy. But, they are high-energy dogs that will likely always be up for more activity if you are. Much like the Labrador , they also tend to have an extended puppyhood. They tend to start winding down a little around the age of 3 and settle into your lifestyle, but they will still be high-energy dogs that require a lot of daily activity. Goldens are known for being versatile and athletic dogs. They tend to love swimming. Once they are done growing and the vet clears them for higher-impact activities, you can try other things too. They are one of the dog breeds that make good running partners. You can also teach them how to play frisbee or play fetch. Training for dog sports is another good option. In addition to obedience, Golden Retrievers are well suited for agility, dock diving , rally, flyball, tracking, and more. Fully-grown Golden Retrievers usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Golden Retrievers generally live for years on average. With their intelligence, eagerness to please, and gentle disposition, Golden Retrievers are versatile working dogs. In addition to being one of the dog breeds that make the best service dogs , Goldens can be found working as emotional support dogs, certified therapy dogs, search and rescue dogs, military dogs, police dogs, animal actors, and more. Featured Golden Retriever Article.

This article will give you tips and details about the golden retriever labor and delivery. This is perfect if you are a first-timer who is about to witness a litter in a matter of days, weeks, or months. Experienced pet owners are also welcome this in for quick refreshment or something new knowledge that wants to be learned. Prepare Yourself The important thing you need to do is to prepare yourself by educating yourself. More particularly if you are a first-timer. Recognizing the problems as early as possible is your advantage. This is because you can become calmer and think logically which makes the chances of delivery much safer. What you need is to scour every resource you have regarding the stages of labor and you should also determine the complications if something uneventful might happen. Given the fact that each canine breed has its own vulnerabilities and complications. Also, each dog has its own unique whelping and birthing process, so embraced the unexpected. Above all, the ultimate keyword you should know is preparedness as they are essential in delivering the litters safely and with ease. This is one of the best ways to prepare your golden retriever for labor and delivery. Gestation Period Generally, an all-female dog breed has a gestation that lasts up to 63 days. Determining the exact delivery time is still difficult find out. But the usual time frame of delivery is usually between 58 to 70 days. Although your local veterinarian can help you narrow the time frame by examining the female dog. Also, be aware the there are still chances that your female dog is not pregnant but feeling pregnant. This phenomenon is known as pseudocyesis or false pregnancy. If your dog has an improper diet, there can be complications and discomfort while on her pregnancy period. There are some things you should remember while your golden retriever is in the labor and delivery process. Some Tips: Never give them treats or scraps — Your goal is to feed your pregnant golden retriever highly nutritious food on a regular basis. Again, stick to the suggested regular adult food. Give him plenty of water — Make sure that your female dog has enough water. Check the water bowl very often. You need to keep them hydrated at all times. Feed your dog only small meals instead of bulky meals — The reason behind this is your pregnant dog has already full in the abdomen. Feeding her large meals will only create discomfort which can eventually lead to complications if you keep on feeding her in large amounts of meals. Feed them high-quality kibble food — Investing in premium quality and wholesome kibble food is a perfect meal for your pregnant golden retriever. The fact that high-quality kibble food has more quality ingredients and jam packed with nutrients and vitamins that your dog needs. Giving them low-quality kibble food is like putting them in danger. You should be wary of their diet and also watch out for any dog food that has GMOs, preservatives, synthetic ingredients, meat by-products, and fillers. Golden Retriever Labor and Delivery As your pregnant golden retriever nearing its labor and delivery, you are going to need to monitor her at all times and watch for changes. Check the body temperature at least twice as this can help you notify its impending birth. A day before the labor, your female dog will have a drop in her body temperature which is a sign of near birth. The normal temperature should be to .And prior to the labor which is 24 hours , the temperature may drop 98 to 99 degrees Fahrenheit. In that case, be prepared. Stage One of Labor The moment the temperature drops, the labor is expected to happen anytime soon. Your dog might feel lethargic and anxious. This will be followed by a nesting behavior. While your dog is in its nesting behavior, this is the time to put her in the whelping box you should train her to get accustomed to the whelping box beforehand. In some cases, they will try to drag some piece of fabric or pieces of clothing into her whelping box. The initial stage will normally last 6 to 12 hours. Stage Two of Labor Moving on, this next stage is the right moment where the puppy is going to be delivered. There begin visible contractions. The female dog feels the strain. The first puppy is about to deliver in 1 to 2 hours prior to the straining and contractions of the female golden retriever. If you cant handle it properly, you can call your vet for assistance and for a care delivery process. After the delivery, the female dog may enter into her resting phase which lasts up to 5 hours. If there are expected puppies, active strains continue to persist and will begin again. You should know the estimated puppies by having your female dog take an ultrasound early on, so you are aware of the golden retriever labor and delivery are finished. Although some female dogs will not have their resting phase. Because in some cases puppies are rapidly delivered. Stage Three of Labor After the puppy is born, the female dog will enter stage three of labor. This stage is where the placenta is being delivered which normally occurs between 6 to 15 minutes after the delivery of the puppy. After the delivery, the mother dog will enter stage two of labor again. It will depend if the mother dog will continue in contraction or will continue her resting phase. The stage of 2 and 3 labors will continue if there are still puppies in the mother dog. You should watch out for the number of placentas. The number of placentas should tally with the number of puppies. Finally, the Whelping Stage By the time all the puppies are delivered, the female golden retriever will immediately clean the puppy. This process is removing the amniotic sac if still present and she will also chew the umbilical cord. After this, you will eventually hear the puppies crying. You can assist and nurse the newborn puppies in order to help the mother if need be. But keep in mind, no more heavy exercise for them, they should be given light physical activities only. Have them walk with you with a maximum of five short walks within a day. Your pregnant dog should be well-rested for the last 2 to 3 weeks prior to her delivery. Because the last weeks are going to be essential for the health of the puppies and the mother also. There will be complications or worse, puppies could die if the mother gets hit too hard or bumped somewhere on the abdomen part. That said, make sure that you consult with your vet before giving any treatment or any sort of medication. Because these can pass down to her unborn puppies. But be sure to talk with your vet all about it. That said, the vet is able to detect ant physical abnormalities, infections, or even diseases with the puppies. You should also ask some questions regarding the golden retriever labor and delivery. Because you will never know if the delivery will be safe or a complication will happen. There could be bleeding in her vagina before birth. Important Nutrients for Pregnant Golden Retrievers When feeding your pregnant golden retriever, you should consider several factors. Maybe right now, you are feeding your dog a cheap kibble food with low nutritional value and full of fillers and other synthetic components that can be dangerous to your dog. Vitamins Vitamins are obviously crucial to anyone and that includes that pregnant dog. There are fruits and vegetables and even organ meats that contain one of these vitamins. Also, vitamin D aids calcium absorption. Canned mackerel dairy products and eggs; and salmon are high sources of vitamin D. In addition, you should also include folate. Because folate is essential in preventing any multiple birth defects. Sources of high folate include liver, poultry, and pork. Just be careful of the amount of liver you are giving. Medium-sized dogs eat more than mg of vitamin A on a daily basis. Minerals Iron, calcium, phosphorous are important to every dog including pregnant ones. Calcium is great for the development of bone and tooth, and calcium is crucial especially during the nursing period. Meaty bones are high sources of calcium although you should keep your pregnant dog from eating dog bones after 7 weeks of labor because it might lead to problems in health. Phosphorous aids the development of bones in puppies, it can also prevent any bone health problems in female dogs. Fish and eggs are great sources of phosphorous. Iron helps fights anemia which is fairly common in dog pregnancy. The best sources of iron are organ meats, liver, kidneys, and beef heart. So you need to focus on this essential meat. There are premium kibble products that offer a large protein diet that is cital in your pregnant dog. Fatty Acids Great sources of omega 3 fatty acids came from fish like wild-caught salmon. You can also give some fish oil dog supplements in order to aid the overall health of your female dog. They are also beneficial in aiding the nerves, fetal brain, and also eyesight. Instead, you should be hygienic given the fact that the puppies are susceptible to any kind of disease. Hydrogen peroxide Towels paper towels, washcloths, and blankets Antibacterial gel ointment. But her pregnancy turned to be false. The tests were negative and I was very disappointed. As to Katya the test proved to be correct, but Gerda born 9 puppies. I believe that a dog must be shown to the doctor who will take delivery a week before it. I do not doubt that only an experienced and competent person can take delivery. Surely you should pay for it. But I know many cases when presumption has led to the dramatic and even tragic consequences. I always invite a doctor and never have regretted about it. Long ago I have made a list of necessary things which must be prepared beforehand so that I would not be obliged to dash around the house in the last moment. It can be disposable or dismountable. How to construct a dismountable box see Garbank-Lislone Kennel site. And the box itself can be larger or smaller. The only important characteristic that a bitch can lie stretched there and can easily penetrate into it. As concerning me I use very high and spacious box made of a wardrobe. Flap door is made in one of the walls so that mother-dog could easily enter but puppets could not leave the box. It should be convenient to clean the box. Underlying cloth should be easily removed, it must be absorbing and not slippery. The new-born puppies from the very first moments of their life try to crawl and need lugs for their paws. You should prepare a considerable number of underlying cloths so that you can change them regularly to keep the nest clean. As concerning me I hate newspapers, oil-cloths and bed-sheets. On the newspapers the puppets turn black , on the oil-cloths — wet, bed-sheets are always gone awry. I prefer underlying cloths of "dry bed" type, pique bed-spreads or heavy terry sheets. Gerda prepares a hole Gerda each time prepared a hole for delivery. Having felt that she is pregnant she chose the place and during each walk dug earth and made the hole comfortable. With lightning speed she relieves herself and rushes back to her children. Usually obedient and delicate she hauls back with such a force that literally pulls down. Even to feed her becomes a problem — she brings to the puppies every tasty bit even when they already begin to receive additional food. Mikimoto digging two holes. We have rather spacious bathroom, and it becomes a puppies room. It is very inconvenient choice but she insisted on it. So we had to put a box in the chair and she gave birth beside it. On the towels still holding a toy in her teeth and licking all over every puppy in the armchair permanganic acid amiflayn The house should be clean. Newborn puppies need warmth. At one instance my Katya as a really romantic character gave birth by candle-light. This model of a flashlight is the most convenient as the hands stay free Prepare medical oil-cloth, disposable diapers and paper towels and napkins. Put an oil-cloth on the bed, sofa or armchair where your dog likes to lie down. Above it put a diaper, bed-sheet or a big towel. I think that if a dog wants to give birth on a sofa let her do it, because she must feel herself comfortable. But if you do not protect it it can be ruined for good after the delivery. Prepare towels and clean rags to dry the puppies. Already washed terry and ordinary towels are best of all. They are relatively stiff and perfectly absorb moisture. Drying a puppy you simultaneously give him a massage Prepare a garbage basket, a pail with pink permanganic acid solution, a broom, dust-pan and rags for cleaning the floor You should have at hand threads and scissors. The threads must be thick, approximately of the 10th number. Some owners believe that a bitch must gnaw through an umbilical cord herself and eat several placentae. Besides not all of them are accurate, some bitches become so nervous that can leave the umbilical cord shorter than necessary. As a rule a puppy is born in a bladder which must be quickly and accurately removed. Placenta usually is born together with a puppy. And leave 1 cm of umbilical cord from the place of cutting. Put a towel or a soft bed-cover into it, put inside hot-water bottles and switch on a lamp. Electronic one is more convenient Several syringes very dangerous in incompetent hands! Write down all telephone numbers which you may need Find a tray where all instruments and other articles can be placed. Very often dogs begin to give birth at the most inconvenient time - about in the morning. If you suffer from insomnia you always can look through Hilary Harmar or Valery Foss.

By Chris Lab puppies are the definition of cuteness. But they are not always the angels they seem! What can you do when your Labrador puppy develops a biting habit? How to stop a Lab puppy from biting? These adorable little guys possess some not-so-good behaviors, especially during the first few months of their lives, a major one being biting. At first, it may seem cute, but it can be irksome, especially when your pup starts destroying things around your house or even begins biting you. Read on to learn some valuable tips on how to train your Labrador puppy to stop biting. What Causes Puppy Biting? Teething in puppies often starts when they are approximately three weeks old. By the time they are six weeks old, these little guys will have all 28 deciduous teeth. When your pup is around 12 weeks old, it will start shedding these teeth, paving the way for the permanent teeth to grow. You may notice these teeth around your home, but most likely, your furry little friend will swallow these teeth while eating. Your puppy tends to chew on everything because the teething process is quite uncomfortable and painful. That is why it will bite and nip on anything to try and relieve that pain. You may also notice your pet drooling excessively and not eating much during this phase. Even strong swimmers like Labs need a break every now and then Your Puppy Is Exploring Its Surrounding During the socialization stage which is from 4 to 12 weeks of age , puppies tend to bite and nip as a way of exploring their environment. At this stage, your pup will chew anything out of curiosity and to test its social boundaries. Separation Anxiety Puppies and older dogs who suffer from separation anxiety mostly exhibit destructive behaviors such as excessive biting. Separation anxiety is basically when your puppy becomes agitated, anxious, or depressed when you prepare to leave, or you have already left. Typically, puppies require between 16 to 18 hours of sleep every day. When they do not get enough sleep, they may begin exhibiting destructive behaviors such as excessive biting. Puppies who have the zoomies tend to show behaviors such as barking and biting excessively, running and spinning around, and so on. A lack of exercise is the leading cause of dog zoomies. These destructive behaviors are a way for your puppy to release that pent-up energy it has held in for quite some time. Here are a few ways on how to train your puppy to stop biting. Labradors are huge fans of babies as they age. Active families love a Lab! Try Bite Inhibition Bite inhibition is one of the most common methods puppy owners use to train their pups to stop biting. This is simply training it on how to control the force of its bites. Of course, you cannot entirely train a puppy to stop biting because it is part of how they socialize. Usually, puppies nip at each other while playing with their littermates or mothers. When your pup bites another puppy too hard, it will yelp, scaring your puppy enough to let go. You can take advantage of this behavior and teach your dog how much biting is acceptable. When it releases you, try ignoring it for approximately 10 to 20 minutes, then continue petting and playing with it. Another way to train your puppy to stop biting is by using positive punishment. Apart from yelping when it bites, you can also use a calm but firm voice to make it stop that behavior. Unlike humans, yelling at your puppy makes it more hyperactive and excited, making the habit even worse. When your puppy is biting excessively, you can gently place it in its cage for a couple of minutes until it calms down. However, it is essential to use this method sparingly to prevent your dog from developing negative responses. This may lead to your pup acting up when it sees someone walking towards it, which can be dangerous. It is also essential to reward your puppy when it calms down and stops biting, as it will help reinforce that positive behavior. If your pup tries biting your finger or hand, you can pull it away quickly before it does and provide a chewy toy for it to nip on instead. Do Labs like water? However, there are many things to consider when shopping for the ideal chew toy for your puppy. If you notice that your puppy shreds or destroys something it bites on within minutes, you should get a chew toy made of rubber or hard plastic. When choosing a chew toy for your furry little pal, make sure it is a good size for your puppy. Go for a toy that is not too big for your pup to carry and not too small that it can swallow and get lodged in its throat. It is also recommendable to get a treat-toy for your puppy. These toys allow you to stash some treats in them to elicit more interest. Such toys will help keep your puppy engaged enough to stop chewing on things around your home. Allow Your Puppy to Socialize With Other Puppies Arranging a playdate with other puppies is also a great way to train your puppy to stop biting. Like we mentioned earlier, puppies bite and nip at each other when playing. When one pup bites the other one too hard, it yelps, making the puppy stop nipping. This response helps your dog learn how much force of a bite is unacceptable. Is your dog a Prince or Princess? A Hero or a Pauper? Jasmine or Aladdin type? Would you give your puppy a Disney dog name? Conclusion While puppy biting is normal, it can become dangerous and uncomfortable as they grow older. 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. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. You turn your attention back to your computer screen and suddenly feel little teeth grabbing at your sock! You look down. Your once-angelic puppy is now having a full on game of tug-of-war with your pant leg! This cute baby is now more like a furry little monster. You get up and try to walk away, but the fur alligator is still attached, munching away at your trousers and having the best time! If this sounds like your life, read on to learn how to stop a puppy from biting. Why Do Puppies Bite? Believe it or not, this scenario is actually very common! Biting is one of the most natural things in the world to a young pup; and they do it for many reasons. You would be left with your feet and mouth to interact, taste and feel your environment. Now, what if you had puppy paws — incapable of grasping anything? That leaves you with one final way to interact — your mouth. For good measure, add in the incredible curiosity of a child. How many times do you see a baby grab things with their hands and pop them into the mouth? Puppies have that same mindset. Your mouth strength and play bite helped you communicate and determine your rank in society. Your mouthy mojo gave you respect in canine culture. Puppies interact with their surroundings largely through their mouths. Labradors, like most sporting breeds, have the drive to chase after prey, put it in their mouths, and bring it back to you. This translates into a strong need to chew. They will try this same tactic with their human pack members. If ignored, one bite on the toe is often enough to get the focus back on them. Remember, to a puppy even negative attention is still attention. Terrible Teething When you add teething into the mix, you have the recipe for a furry gator. Most pups will have an increased need to chew while teething , which can begin at 6 weeks and last to 8 months of age. Unlike teething, there is no magical age that puppies grow out of a learned mouthing behavior. Thankfully, with positive training, most dogs eventually lose interest in chewing on their owners. Types of Biting: Aggression or Play? Puppies use their teeth in many ways. However, this is actually just very intense play. Play biting can be accompanied with growling and snarling. This is just part of the fun to a young pup. Instead, we will look into how we can prevent playful mouthing. However, it is important to recognize the signs of aggression. Pay attention to the timing of the biting as well. If so, the motive behind the bite may be more aggressive. Could it be Resource Guarding? Some dogs also aggressively bite when they are guarding a toy or food item, commonly called resource guarding. With resource guarding, you will see the same behavior as aggressive biting, but they will also stand over an object and defend it from any perceived threat. If you think your puppy is behaving aggressively, seek professional help to learn how to actively manage this issue. In contrast to this, playing puppies will be relaxed and have a wiggly body. They will be bouncy, easily roll onto their backs and often be panting with open mouths. Even if they are growling, a relaxed face and body mean a happy puppy. What Can Trigger Biting? Do you really want your pound Labrador to target your hands as a toy later? Children Little kids tend to excite puppies more than adults. Children move erratically, run around, make strange sounds and have a lot more energy. Puppies can easily associate them with toys. Ankle Biters Puppies target fast moving objects that excite their prey drive. Your feet moving by at their eye level can be irresistible. After all, what self-respecting puppy would snub shoes with those floppy laces that are perfect for playing tug? How do we do this? Redirection with Hands When training your puppy, always have a toy to offer. Remember, puppies are like babies. Your job is to redirect them to fun toys instead of human skin. You must do everything possible to make toys extremely attractive so the puppy chooses them over your clothing, hands or feet. Redirection with Kids You can also use redirection around children. First, teach your puppy to use interactive toys and then show your child how to play with the puppy correctly. In the event that your dog forgets, teach your kids to be a tree when their puppy begins to bite them or their clothes. This position makes them less interactive to the puppy. They look boring and the puppy will lose interest. Most bites occur because the child is running or moving erratically. Remember, dogs have the same prey triggers as wolves. If something is running away, it looks like prey. Your job, therefore, is to have an even more amazing toy than your feet. You can take a toy, tie it to a rope, and then tie the rope to your belt so that you are dragging the toy whenever your pup is out. If your puppy is coming for your feet, stop moving them and wave the toy around excitedly instead. Once the pup is attached to the toy, you can start walking again. This way, they will pounce on the toy instead of you! Bite inhibition simply means that the puppy learns not to apply too much force behind their teeth. They apply gentle, but firm, pressure to their greeting. Puppies also learn to limit this pressure with their mouths by feedback from pack members. When puppies are little, they learn bite inhibition through play with their siblings. If two pups are tussling, and one bites down too hard, the other puppy yelps loudly. This startling sound usually causes the offending party to let go. The play stops for a few minutes, as the first pup nurses his wounded ego. Play then resumes, but with less brutality. Instead, let the puppy release your hand and then simply get up and and move away from your pup while ignoring them. Your job is to teach them when they bite down on you, the fun stops. Ignore them for about a minute, then return and resume the play and praise them when they focus on the toy. If they bite you too hard again, repeat this process. You can either step over a puppy barrier or go into another room and shut the door. Just make sure they are in a puppy-proof area, as they may take out their frustration on inappropriate household items. You can also keep the puppy on a leash while playing with them. If they bite you, you can calmly tether them to something and then walk out of their reach. Your goal is to correct the puppy only by taking away your fun presence. You should not be threatening or angry. Give them the appropriate time out from the fun interaction to settle down, and then come back with a toy to redirect their energy. Once they understand they have to be gentle, you can then start to ask more of them by ending the game with lighter and lighter pressure on your skin. Finally, you can take the game to the highest standard — no teeth on human skin at all. If you slowly progress to this over weeks, you teach your pup to have a soft mouth. If they do feel the need to put their teeth on a human, they know not to put much pressure into their bite. You need to teach your puppy that human skin is fragile and requires a softer touch than a canine interaction. Your goal for this exercise should be to help your puppy understand that the play and fun things continue as long as they keep their teeth on their toy and not on you! More Ways to Stop Your Puppy Biting While the yelp and time-out method works for most pups, there are additional ways to reinforce good behavior. When your puppy bites your hand, they get a terrible taste. You can use anti-chewing sprays like Bitter Apple to make your hands less appealing. When your puppy bites you, be still and wait for them to react to the bitter taste. When they let go, praise them and redirect them onto a treat or toy. You want the crate to always be associated with only good things. Crates also should be in the middle of the household, with the rest of the pack — not isolated. This is the same way other canine pack members would isolate them. A laundry room or puppy pen works well for this exercise. Make sure the room is comfortable and safe for your puppy. When the puppy is too stimulated, calmly put him in the room with some teething toys and leave. Teaching them interactive games like fetch or bringing you a toy to tug helps show them that they can have even more fun when they play by your rules. Positive play helps develop a bond with your dog. You never want to avoid it, you just want to show them how to play without biting you. Teaching puppies to retrieve objects helps to tire them out, gives them something positive to chase, and focuses their bite on an appropriate item. Plus, most Labradors are pretty good at retrieving! Remember, anytime we ask a puppy to stop a behavior, it should be because they are rewarded in an even more exciting and positive way for doing something else and things our way. The following video shows how. Video: How to Stop a Puppy from Biting This video shows how to use clicker training to stimulate a puppy in situations where they normally would bite; and then reward them when they choose a closed mouth and calm interaction. Dominant Puppies Dogs are individuals. However, as puppies mature, there may be the rare pup that uses biting as a way to take charge. Dominant puppies may bite to show you that they want to be the boss as they mature. This happens naturally among littermates, as all packs have a pecking order. This reinforces to them that you are backing down and that they are the leader in the relationship. Always remain calm and assertive with your puppy, but end the game as soon as they begin vying for leadership instead of playing. Remember, the alternative to not training your dog is a large animal putting his mouth on people. Be patient with your puppy. Remember, mouthing and biting are normal parts of canine culture. If you stay patiently positive, train consistently, and redirect and reward good behavior, you will soon see a puppy that learns to bring you a tug toy instead of shredding your trousers. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. Print How to stop your puppy from biting your hands and feet — fast! Have you ever watched a litter of retriever puppies play with each other? They are all mouths and feet as they growl, bite and paw at each other. Over time, if left to it, each pup will naturally figure out their place in the pack. However, when you bring your Lab puppy home there are no longer littermates with whom to tussle. And the result is often that your Lab puppy will start biting and growling at you! The problem is that puppy teeth are sharp. Very sharp! And when your puppy bites you, even if they are playing, it hurts. So, what can you do to stop this behavior before it gets out of hand and you find yourself or someone in your family injured by your puppy? Before I go any further, I want to be clear about what we are talking about. You should seek professional help and evaluation. Why puppies bite and growl Puppy play is a kind of training for a dog as they grow and mature. It is also a way that dogs determine rank within a group. Remember, dogs are pack animals. In a pack there is only one Alpha lead dog. Every other dog is under the authority and control of that dog. No two dogs share the same rank. So, while biting and growling starts as play, it does not stay that way. All dogs, whether in a group of dogs or a human family, want to understand their place in the family. They need to know their place. It helps they be more mentally balanced and will help solve a multitude of behavioral problems. Once a puppy or dog understands where they rank in the pack, they often assume that place, at least for a while. Remember, they are dogs. They are not robots so occasionally they may challenge their position, but if the boundary remains clear, the challenge is short lived. Biting, nipping and playful growling at a human can become a challenge of dominance. If your puppy is young, you can quickly and easily end this behavior by establishing boundaries and consistently enforcing these boundaries each and every time your puppy shows this type of behavior. If you have let this behavior go on for a while, you may be in for quite a fight to take back your authority. Biting is not the same as chewing A puppy biting your hand or feet is not the same as a puppy chewing on a shoe, toy or other item. All puppies have a need to chew. As their puppy teeth grow and their adult teeth come in, it is common for dogs to chew on things to relieve the pain and help the new teeth to come in. This should not be discouraged, but rather encouraged on an appropriate item like a chew toy, nylabone or rawhide. And if this works, this is an appropriate solution. Instead, it is likely an issue of dominance. How to stop puppy from biting you Biting is just one puppy dominance behavior. There are many others such as jumping on you, putting a paw on your feet, and lifting and placing paws on your arms or legs. The behaviors I have listed are often gateway behaviors that escalate into more aggressive or troublesome behaviors like stealing food off your plate or the counter, pushing you out of the way when going through doors and pulling you around on a lead. Start by establishing firm boundaries The first step to stopping your puppy from biting or mouthing you is to set up firm boundaries for your puppy. You can set these up for not only biting but for all dominance behaviors. So, what is a boundary? Well, here are some examples. Some people we have worked with are okay with their puppy mouthing their hand as long as there is no tooth pressure. If you feel the same way, then make that a boundary. But if there is any tooth pressure, a swift and consistent correction will follow. This boundary is stronger and does not give the dog any room for confusion. In fact, they often will understand what your boundaries are but will test that standard against everyone else in the family. Each person needs to set and enforce boundaries. React with firm consistent corrections After you establish the boundary, you now need to react every time your puppy or dog crosses that boundary. Each and every time! There can be no room for confusion. Your corrections must be swift and consistent. Not all dogs react to the same level of pressure. For some dogs, this squeeze and strong words will be all it takes to stop the behavior. Especially if you are consistent in your correction. But some dogs have a stronger or more challenging personality. This will give your puppy a taste of his own medicine since his puppy teeth are sharp and will pinch into his lips or flews. You must be consistent. How long will it take to stop my puppy from biting me? If you are firm and consistent, the behavior should stop for the most part in a day or two. Some dogs require more pressure, some less. Your puppy should feel some discomfort. That is okay. The point is to show your puppy that biting hurts and that it is not an acceptable behavior. When nothing seems to work If you puppy is a bit older and has been getting away with biting and mouthing you for a while, you may struggle to end this behavior. Often the problem is a strong dominance issue that needs to be addressed. If your puppy continues to snap or bite at you even after a correction, you likely need to exert some dominance over your puppy. This is similar to what a mommy dog does to a puppy that is not behaving. Humans can do the same thing to show dominance over a rebellious puppy. I know, it sound a bit ridiculous but it really does work. Instead, remain calm and patient. Stay in control. Reacting with emotion can lead to strong reactions or punishment that you will later regret. The point is to show your dog that you are the Alpha in the relationship, and you can and will determine what behavior is acceptable. Biting is not love As a professional dog trainer, I am always surprised at what some of clients consider appropriate behavior. Some owners feel that setting boundaries and enforcing those boundaries means that you do not love your dog. That you need to accept all dog behaviors otherwise you do not love your dog. This is a false and faulty mindset. We have seen clients who have been injured by their dog multiple times and they still refuse to take steps to end the behavior. That is not love. What if the next person that dog bites is a child? Would you be able to live with that? A dog that is allowed to continue harming humans is only one bite away from having to be put down. It may sound harsh, but it is the sad truth. Some people may argue that the dog is unable to understand what they are doing is wrong. This is not based on reality. Dogs are very smart. They can learn to do amazing things and become incredible hunting partners and family companions. But they rarely achieve this potential without an owner who cares enough to set boundaries and enforce them. Final thoughts on how to stop my puppy biting me all the time You can stop your puppy from biting you and others if you are willing to take the steps necessary to make your dog understand that biting is not an acceptable behavior. A firm consistent correction each and every time your puppy bites will quickly teach your puppy to stop biting. These corrections will not harm your relationship with your puppy, but will, in fact, enhance it. Your puppy will quickly learn where the boundaries are and how to operate within those boundaries. We see it time and again, once a puppy is taught that there are boundaries, they quickly adjust and become wonderful loving and obedient family members. Help, my Lab puppy keeps biting me! Calm puppy behavior. Conflicting advice on how to stop your pup biting Many articles will tell you to ignore a puppy when he bites and to offer him a toy instead. Some people will tell you to punish your biting puppy. Others will tell you that you must not stop your puppy biting too suddenly, or punish him for biting, for fear of drastic consequences later. So who is right, and who is wrong? Does ignoring stop your puppy biting? Many new puppy owners try to ignore the biting puppy initially. This failure tends to be for one or more of the following reasons. Does noise stop puppy biting? There is no doubt that a sufficiently loud squeal, followed by immediate withdrawal of attention, will cause many Labrador puppies to break off from biting. Sometimes long enough for a skilled owner to then redirect the puppy into a more appropriate activity. There is also no doubt that for some puppies, this has the reverse effect, and causes them to bite harder and more fiercely. A puppy that has spent sufficient time with his Mum, may be more likely to take heed of this verbal warning, as he will expect it to be followed by a sharp click of her teeth and a fiercer rebuke if he ignores her. But there are no guarantees here. And the fact is, squealing simply does not work as an effective anti-biting strategy, for some puppies. Punishing the puppy to stop biting I have heard, even quite experienced, breeders tell new puppy owners to punish their puppy if he bites. Either by intimidating the puppy with an angry growling voice, or even with physical punishment such as a scruff shake or slap. But there are problems with this approach. This process is called bite inhibition. And the use of punishment may curtail all biting rather than just the hardest, most painful, bites. Nowadays many people like to train dogs without punishment. And there are strong reasons for joining them — check out this article — the downside of punishing dogs. Teaching puppy to stop biting Why would we want to teach dogs to bite humans gently? Why is it not best to teach them not to bite at all, right from the start? The idea of reducing biting gradually was popularised by Ian Dunbar. The theory is that a dog which learns to inhibit his bite i. You can read more about bite inhibition here: Labrador Puppies Biting. The concept is a sound one, and most canine behaviorists agree that teaching gradual bite inhibition is a good thing. The problem for many new puppy owners, is stopping those painful bites in the first place! The first step is not a technique at all, but an adjustment in the expectations that we have of a small puppy How much do Lab puppies bite? New puppy owners tend to have false expectations of puppies. They also anticipate that stopping a puppy from biting will be a fairly quick and simple matter. None of these expectations is true. Most puppies bite hard, frequently and growl fiercely whilst they are doing it. This noise is not a sign of aggression see Help my puppy is aggressive. Stopping a puppy from biting is a process, a journey. And it can be temporarily an uncomfortable one! It is important to accept that there is no guaranteed way of stopping biting immediately. Indeed, as we have seen, bite prevention rather than inhibition may be a bad thing in any case. Supervise your puppy around children Once you have got your head around the fact that this process will take some time, that it will be a gradual thing, you need to think about how you are going to protect any children that might come into contact with the puppy. This is important because small children can, both hurt and, be hurt by small biting puppies. Calm your puppy to stop him biting The next priority is to keep your puppy calm. Overexcited puppies bite harder and more frequently than less excited puppies. This will merely start the biting up all over again. There are lots of ways to interact with puppies without physically playing with them. Check out our article on playing safely with your dog. What to do when a puppy bites When your puppy bites you really hard, take immediate action. Stand up, move away from him and completely withdraw your attention. You can try the squeal thing if you want to. This works well with some puppies. Be ready for it, and repeat your actions. If the puppy chases after you, biting at your legs and feet, step over a baby gate, or pop him in his crate for a few minutes. You can read up on this process in more detail in this article: How to cope with biting. Remember, puppies enjoy chewing , and teething puppies need to chew on something. Whilst you and your clothing are not suitable chew toys, you need to provide your puppy with alternatives, like Kong toys. How to stop your puppy biting Biting is normal Biting should be inhibited in stages Training takes time The key points to take away from this are that biting is normal, and that training a puppy not to bite takes time. Stop the painful bites first, then work on putting a stop to mouthing. If what you are doing is not working, you probably just need to be more patient and persistent. If your children are suffering, you need to separate and supervise. Work hard on keeping your puppy calm — it makes the biggest difference. How to train a puppy not to bite Is it normal for puppies to bite a lot? Yes it is! Almost all puppies bite and some bite much harder than others. How long do puppies teeth and bite? With some exceptions, puppy biting will stop by the time your puppy has his full set of grown up teeth at 7 months. Fortunately, you can stop your puppy from biting long before they have cut all their adult teeth. Do puppies grow out of biting? If you do nothing at all, to teach a puppy not to bite, the biting would likely subside over the next few months. But its very easy to do the wrong thing, and actually encourage a puppy to bite more. And in those cases, play biting can become very rough and the relationship between a young dog and their family can break down. Do All Labradors Bite? Anyone who shares their home with a 10 or 12 week old puppy will tell you that Labradors bite! And I can reassure you that this applies to all Labradors in the first few months of life. Fortunately this is a phase puppies go through and not a permanent character flaw. And most adult Labradors are indeed very good natured dogs. And also at what is normal, and what is not. If your children are in tears at being bitten every time they try to play with and cuddle their new friend, you may be wondering if your puppy is becoming aggressive. You may even worry that your children might be at risk. Fortunately I can reassure you that this is not the case. While your puppy may frighten your children with his sharp teeth and growling. The way he is behaving now does not mean he will be a threat to their safety in the future. Happily, studies have shown that behavior in small puppies is not predictive of the way that they will behave as adults! Why Do Puppies Bite Children? Some breeders will not sell puppies to homes where there are small children. This is because puppies often bite children and teenagers harder and more persistently than they bite grown-ups. It is normal for small puppies to make small children cry, but before you rush your puppy off to the local shelter, bear with me a moment, because I can help with that. Children give off conflicting signals to the puppy. Fortunately there are lots of ways to make it easier on yourself and on your kids. In short, you need to be a little patient at this point, and it helps to know that this phase does pass quite quickly. And that it is completely normal for all puppies to bite a lot, and to bite children with particular enthusiasm! It has to be said, Labradors are even more bitey than some other breeds of dog during this stage in their development. In fact, retrievers generally tend to be very bitey as puppies. As can the pain of being bitten. Puppy bites do hurt. And sometimes they leave marks. Pain, bruising, scratching, little tooth marks on your toddler, these are all part and parcel of raising a puppy. Some very enthusiastic puppies will even draw blood on occasions. All this is normal, but I will explain what you can do about it. Perhaps the most serious concern that new puppy parents have, is the fear that their puppy is becoming aggressive. What really worries people is the snarling. When puppies play, they practice being fierce. They throw themselves into the whole play acting thing with huge enthusiasm. And they are brilliant at it. And the most important part of that game is to make as much noise as possible and to sound as angry as possible. So, all puppies growl or snarl ferociously when they play, while they are biting, and sometimes when they are trying to entice their poor owners into yet another game. His little face will be all scrunched up, his lips drawn back, his teeth showing. So he has no idea that he is frightening your children or that you are wondering if he is turning into a horrible aggressive and dangerous beast. Please do be reassured, that however fierce your ten week old puppy sounds. It is just a game. He is truly just playing. Normal Puppy Play Behavior So, the hard truth is, all puppies bite. And many puppy bites are quite painful. Some Labrador puppies bite more than most, and biting a lot, and growling or snarling at the same time is normal. So is biting so hard that it makes your eyes water, and even occasionally breaks the skin. Puppies bite at hands that go to stroke them, at bare feet, and happily tug away at clothing, all the while trying to sound as fierce as they possibly can. All this is normal. And you, quite naturally, will want to know exactly when it is going to stop! When Do Puppies Stop Biting? It also happens in working dog families where the dogs may be kennelled or at least are not allowed unsupervised interaction with anyone apart from their trainer or main carer. A study carried out on Guide Dog puppies in showed that simply rejecting interaction and refusing to play was enough to stop the puppies biting their adult puppy walkers. But, and it is a big but — in most young families, this is not always what happens. In many families, especially where the puppy is a novelty, everyone plays with the puppy, and often in quite a physical way. This gets puppies very excited and tends to make biting worse. Inexperienced puppy owners also tend to inadvertently prolong the biting phase by rewarding the puppy with attention when he bites. The more excited they get, the harder they bite. Rough physical play gets puppies excited, rubbing puppies tummies, chasing puppies, grabbing at puppies. All these things get puppies bubbling with excitement Noisy behavior can get puppies excited too, so children squealing, or crying, grown ups shouting or getting cross. You might not think you are rewarding your puppy for biting, but you probably are. Labrador puppies are particularly social and love attention more than most puppies do. Any kind of contact with you, or other members of the family, including physical contact, talking, shouting, even eye contact, all reward your puppy. And if you give him these things while he is biting, this will reinforce the biting behavior and he will bite more in the future Poor bite inhibition What makes the bites hurt more, is poor bite inhibition. So the next section explains what bite inhibition is and how you can help your puppy improve his. What Is Bite Inhibition? At just eight or nine weeks old , Labrador puppies are actually capable of crushing bones the thickness of your little finger, with their jaws. Your puppy has been learning to inhibit his bite since he was tiny. His mother and brothers and sisters all helped to teach him how hard he can bite without hurting them. This is where your training will come in. You can read more about bite inhibition and bite inhibition training in this article What About Puppy Teething? We mentioned teething earlier because people tend to associate biting with teething. So, is it true that puppies bite so much because they are teething? And how long will teething go on for? In fact, most problem puppy biting is simply play. Puppies may chew or mouth at fingers to help relieve the discomfort of teething, but this is not the major cause of the biting problems we find in homes with small puppies. Most puppies have their adult teeth by the time they are 7 months old, but biting does not usually last that long. He is growing fast and by 11 or 12 weeks those bites will hurt a lot more. The time to begin taking action is now! But for the time being, you need to put this image aside. Children under five are simply not capable of playing with a puppy under four months without getting bitten. So you need to supervise every interaction between them. Do put baby gates across doorways, even if you no longer need them for your children. Baby gates allow you to separate children and puppies when you are not free to supervise. Do show children how to stroke the puppy gently whilst you hold one end of a rawhide chew and let the puppy gnaw on the other end. It will end in tears. Playful Visitors It is not just children that play inappropriately with puppies. I have known grown men grapple roughly with a tiny puppy, rolling him around the floor, making growling noises, whilst the puppy gnaws on his knuckles. You can find out how to play safely with a Labrador in this article. Saving your sanity and enjoying your puppy If you were not expecting this, it can seem like a big deal, but supervision and some separation is essential if you are to keep your sanity, and your children are to dry their tears and carry on enjoying their puppy. With older children, you need to teach them how to interact with the puppy without getting him overwrought. Labrador puppies, like toddlers, are easily over-excited. And when they are over-excited they start to be silly. Your first job at this stage, is to keep your puppy calm. Your second job is to stop giving your puppy rewards for biting. Make sure the puppy gets no reward at all when he bites someone. Especially no attention. The next stage explains how you can do that. The process whereby the puppy learns to use his mouth gently on your skin — and it takes a little while. Bite inhibition is taught in stages. The puppy learns to reduce the power of his bites gradually. What to do when your puppy bites If your puppy bites and hurts you, remove your attention immediately. This is where baby gates can be really helpful. If you are playing with your puppy and he bites you, you can step over the gate, thus effectively removing all attention from him. All of a sudden his playmate has disappeared. What about squealing You may have heard that a puppy will stop biting if you yelp or squeal. And you can try this, because it does work with some puppies. But many puppies get even more excited by the yelping, and on others it has no effect. The strongest signal you can give your puppy is the loss of your presence and attention. What about punishment? Some people try and stop puppies biting by smacking them or shouting at them. There are several problems with this. Firstly, it tends to only stop the puppy biting the person who did the yelling. Which is of course the very opposite of what you are trying to achieve! You can find out more about the potential impact of punishing your Labrador here. What if you need to move a biting puppy? If you need to move the puppy away rather than stepping away from the puppy you may find he bites at your hands when you go to pick him up or take hold of his collar. Others bite when they are stroked or petted. We are fond of wiggling our fingers at puppies, petting them and rubbing our fingers in their fur, not behaviors that dogs really understand. And many puppies see fingers and toes as something to chase and play with. Hands are a particular target for puppy bites so teach your children to interact with your puppy using toys that he can tug and bite on, rather than playing with him using their bare hands. Distracting your puppy If you want to sit and pet your puppy, or your children do, use treats or hold a rawhide chew with one hand so he can gnaw on the end. Have your puppy wear a harness and houseline so that you can pick up the end of the line and move him to where you want him to go without his grabbing at your hands. Stage Four: Train Your Puppy Not To Bite This is where we teach the puppy to let us stroke and pet him, or handle him in any way we like, without him putting his mouth around our fingers. The best way to do this is with a clicker and some dog treats. But you can also use a word like YES instead of the click. And place a treat on the floor in front of him You see where I am going with this? Build up slowly so that you can touch him anywhere on his head or body, pick up his paws etc. All without him grabbing or mouthing at you. What do I do if he mouths at me? If the puppy grabs at your hand, you got too close. Make smaller hand movements further away from him until he ignores those, then bring the movements gradually closer. Stage Five: Playing Safely As puppies grow older biting can reappear. Puppies between six and nine months of age, are extremely boisterous, and may start nipping with their teeth during play. At this age, your puppy is more than half grown, and his size and weight are a significant problem if rough play is allowed. The secret to avoiding and resolving this issue is to change the way you interact with your puppy. And to ensure that children follow your example. Boisterous and excitable puppies must not be allowed to play rough games with small people. The consequences can be very unpleasant, and it is no coincidence that this is the age at which many young dogs are abandoned or given up to rescue. Here are a few more articles that you might find helpful:. But as your kids approach the puppy, he starts biting and nipping them, causing a few surprised cries. The AKC says Labradors are an affectionate breed, treating adults, children, and other animals like family without causing any trouble. Labradors are easy to train and receptive to learning new commands since their main goal is to please their families. Do All Labrador Puppies Bite? As your new puppy settles into their new home, they are many stimulants, and he needs time to get to know your family, its new surroundings, and that not all slippers are a toy. Just as when people move to a new house, city, or country, your new Labrador puppy is exploring the world. This process will take a few weeks, so be patient. But what happens when he suddenly starts biting you and your kids? Every family that gets lab puppies faces this challenge. Although your puppy is only a few pounds, Labrador puppy biting is still painful. Many owners worry that the behavior will continue into adulthood, especially when biting becomes an ongoing issue. The good news is that there is usually a short time frame that you have to experience this. So in reality, Labrador puppy biting is primarily instinctual. Reason 1: Teething Puppies Sometimes, a Lab puppy biting is simply due to teething. Teething is uncomfortable, so your pup likely just wants to relieve that discomfort in any way possible. If that means biting a chew toy or your fingers, then so be it. Once your Lab puppy has its teeth, it might stop biting and nipping. You can help ease his comfort by offering him teething toys for puppies, like frozen chew toys. Reason 2: Excitement Biting Behavior Your new Lab puppy could get excited by just about anything: Your kids squealing, shouting, or crying, and adults shouting or being angry can set off your Lab puppy biting with its sharp teeth. The solution: Deter your puppy from biting you by redirecting him to what he can bite, like a toy. Reason 3: Biting for Attention Most Labrador puppies are receptive to conditioning and positive reinforcement. Dog lovers know that dogs crave attention from their families, but Lab puppies are extreme attention seekers. They love any form of contact with their families, whether playing, petting, or even just eye contact. So if your pup gets these responses from you while biting, he will interpret them as attention. The solution: Stop giving your puppy the attention he wants when he bites so he learns not to associate the two. When puppies are with their mom and siblings, the mom teaches them how hard they can bite each other without it being too painful through play fighting. Your Lab puppy learns how to calibrate strength based on his own family experience. Do Labrador Puppies Bite Children? One major adjustment is the play-biting: A small Lab puppy has a powerful bite and can cause pain, especially to such sensitive skin. The downside is that Lab puppies are more likely to bite children and teenagers than adults. It all comes down to learning how to interact with the puppy. Children and teenagers are inherently more confusing for a Lab puppy. The great news is that you can stop your Lab puppy from biting your kids through consistent training, but the training should be on both sides. Your kids also need to learn how to play and interact with the puppy, understanding its boundaries and playing just enough to keep them from overexciting. You plan to throw a chew toy into the yard for him to chase — but before you can throw it, he suddenly starts nipping and tugging at your hands while making odd puppy sounds that sound dangerously close to snarling. You might also be worried that you have a puppy displaying aggressive biting behavior. Most of the time, they mean no harm and just need a little training to control it! Without the proper guidance and education, many of these methods might be wrong: Instead of discouraging your puppy from biting, you could unintentionally reinforce it. Puppy Biting Tip 1: Discourage Play Biting Whatever stage of puppy development your adorable pup is in, he will always crave attention. If you encourage and reward play biting, he will associate it with attention, praise, and treats, causing him to do it more. So if your puppy has entered its biting phase and is displaying rough or aggressive behavior, stop yourself from giving any reaction. Simply follow rigid training steps, and it will eventually stop. Although that might be very hard to do because a Lab puppy is so adorable, you will thank yourself in the future for doing this. In fact, it might even make things worse. When you punish your Labrador, he might learn to fear you. This can worsen the biting and lead to your puppy developing more aggressive behavior as an adult. Some people also do a light swat on their puppies when they misbehave. When your pup starts biting, remain calm and follow positive training methods rather than negative ones. This is especially true when it comes to a nipping Labrador puppy. While a biting puppy is normal puppy behavior, without proper training and techniques, your Labrador might bite well into adulthood. Step 1: Teach Small Children Boundaries The first step in your training routine should be teaching your kids how to interact with the puppy. But if they start barking and biting out of excitement, you must stop playing with them immediately. Instead, pick up the toy and step away. Bite inhibition is when you teach your puppy how much is too much. After that time-out, you can return to the room and resume whatever activity you were doing. As your puppy learns to bite with less intensity, you can start training it not to put your hand in its mouth. This training takes time, so be patient, and you will see a positive result. Step 4: Reinforce with Additional Training You can also use other training techniques to reinforce positive behavior. Move your hand closer to the puppy and follow the same technique. If the puppy bites you, walk away from it. As you train the puppy to tolerate your hand getting closer to it without biting, you can finally keep your puppy calm and play safely without causing overstimulated biting. Puppies and dogs might go back to their bad habits if you change how you interact with them, so being consistent is crucial. Remember that children tend to take more time to learn training steps, so always reinforce the boundaries and supervise them during playtime in the early training days. Be patient and give your puppy time to learn. Seek help from professional trainers. Professional dog trainers are experienced in redirection, toy-play, and bite inhibition training to give you helpful tips and tricks. Take your puppy to puppy school. There are hundreds of puppy schools and programs that teach puppies good manners. Remember to never punish your puppy for biting. Invest in some good toys, such as different chew toys or Kong toys, so you always have something to redirect him towards. Conclusion Whether teething, scared or just excited, most Labrador Retriever puppies bite for various reasons. Unfortunately, those sharp little puppy teeth can hurt — so if you notice some unwanted biting from your Lab puppy, you should immediately start training him into different behavior. Learn more about what we do and check out our available Labrador puppies today! Share on.

Your pup will be in good hands, guaranteed. They have an established track record of success and know how to limit health hazards through meticulous breeding practices. A reputable breeder will be transparent and answer any questions you may have. They understand that a Golden Retriever puppy is not just a pet but a cherished family member. A Golden Retriever puppy looking exhaustedly at a bone The health of your Golden is of utmost importance to Golden Retriever Buddies, and they take great care to ensure that their puppies are in the best possible condition. They emphasize the importance of exercise, grooming , immunizations, worming, and high-quality vitamins and probiotics. So, they gradually introduce their puppies to new people, other dogs, toys, and different environments to help them grow into confident and well-adjusted adult Goldens. They also stress the importance of waiting until a puppy has completed all of their puppy shots before exposing them to other unvaccinated dogs or public areas. Golden Retriever Buddies gladly serves California, Arizona, Utah, Nevada, and neighboring states, but they do not ship their puppies unattended. They offer a delivery service for an additional fee. Golden Retriever puppy with a red collar lying on a comfortable pillow. They take their breeding philosophy seriously, which calls for health testing and clearances to ensure the health and well-being of their puppies. They also take pride in their commitment to programs like the Canine Good Citizen CGC Program, which emphasizes responsible pet ownership and etiquette. With their state-of-the-art facilities, top-notch trainers and caregivers, and dedication to programs like the CGC, you can rest assured that their dogs are well-behaved and esteemed members of the community. This results in symmetrical, balanced, and powerful dogs with friendly and confident temperaments. The Golden Retriever puppy smiles while sitting on a blanket. For Lucky Charm Goldens, health is a top priority. They undertake all necessary health testing and clearances to produce the healthiest puppies possible. They give the dogs high-quality food and proper care so that they develop into affectionate and intelligent Golden Retrievers. The breeding philosophy of Lucky Charm Goldens is simple—breed for conformation, health, and temperament. Every year, they go to at least two shows to make sure their dogs are champions before they breed them. They interact with their puppies to learn their personalities and match them with the perfect families. Moreover, Lucky Charm Goldens understands the importance of socialization and takes the necessary measures to expose the pups to various age-appropriate activities, noises, textures, and other safe outdoor activities. This socialization will help them become well-rounded and happy pets in their forever homes. Overall, Lucky Charm Goldens gives their puppies and adult dogs the best possible care. They are confident about the soundness of their breeding program and back it up with a 1-year health guarantee. While their puppies are not for breeding and sold with limited registration, Lucky Charm Goldens ensures they are happy, healthy, and well-adjusted in their forever homes. Breeder Details: Address: Colton, California 4. The English type has a fuller head, rounder eyes, and a lighter color than the American type. Golden Retriever puppy eats kibbles. The breeder involves everyone in raising their animals, from the youngest to the oldest members of the family, and their kids help with showing the dogs and raising them. The puppies go home to their new families, well-socialized and loved. Classic Heritage Golden Retrievers prioritizes health and ensures the dogs undergo health testing and clearances. The breeder also provides quality care for puppies and adult dogs. They ensure that their English Golden Retrievers are household dogs that enjoy time with their family. The breeder travels with puppies to deliver them to their new homes out of state. Overall, Classic Heritage Golden Retrievers is a breeder committed to producing English Golden Retrievers of the highest caliber, each with perfect health, beauty, and temperament. They also place a high value on the welfare and socialization of their puppies. Breeder Details: Address: Newcastle, California 5. Golden Retriever puppy with a ribbon on a plain background. Noam had a great temperament and was a regal and loving companion. As a result, Shayla started breeding Noam to preserve his legacy and to help others through therapy dogs. They also carry out genetic testing to look for any flaws. The breeder believes in socializing the puppies, which includes visiting nursing homes and mingling with the community. They believe in using their dogs for therapy and are working towards a future where all their dogs can help others. Five Golden Retriever puppies bathed in a large basin. They use European Golden Retrievers in their breeding program because of their reputation for looks and health. However, they do not breed full American Goldens as they are at an increased risk of cancer. They socialize their puppies with Toy Poodles, cats, and young grandchildren while raising them in a loving home. To ensure that their puppies grow up to be well-rounded companions, they give them lots of love and early socialization. They conduct health testing and clearances to ensure the highest quality of care. They also require their buyers to wait until their pups are two years old before spaying or neutering them, due to the increased risk of cancer from early spaying and neutering. All of their puppies are fully vaccinated, wormed, vet examined, microchipped, and doggy-door trained. Shadalane Golden Retrievers Shadalane Golden Retrievers is a breeding program dedicated to producing high-quality Golden Retrievers with exceptional structure, attractiveness, intellect, and temperament. They collaborate with numerous established Golden Retriever breeders in America to integrate lineage with the best possible results and variety in a restricted breeding program. Golden Retriever puppies playing on the grass together. Shadalane also offers trained Golden Retriever puppies for families who do not have the expertise, patience, or ability to teach young puppies. In collaboration with the Puppy Training Academy, they have put together a highly successful training program with experienced trainers. This helps families lay a solid foundation through positive reinforcement training techniques. They have also meticulously screened for the health of their dogs for several generations, and they remove any dog from their breeding program with any health issues. They raise their pups in a family atmosphere, where they learn basic etiquette and house rules. They also offer the option of acquiring an older, trained Golden Retriever puppy or young adult for families who prefer to avoid going through the puppy stages. Breeder Details: Address: Margale Lane, Vista, CA Conclusion Choosing a Golden Retriever breeder is like choosing a partner—you want someone with a good reputation, health screening, and someone you can trust. 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. Special Note: You can contact them through their Facebook page. He considers his Goldens as an extension of his family so he makes sure that they are well taken care of. This breeder does not advertise puppies that much and in most cases, the litters are sold through referrals or repeat purchases. You would really have to reach out to him for his available puppies. Since his dogs are often repeated purchases, several families already own second and third-generation Golden Retrievers from this breeder. If this also sounds appealing to you, check the dogs out through their webpage. The main breeder of Eirlys named Marina Hall Phillips has an extensive background in animal genetics, behavior, and husbandry. She has been in the service dog industry for 20 years before she decided to start breeding Golden Retrievers. As a result of her years of experience, the Goldens that her kennel produces are very much delightful as they have a balanced temperament, excellent working ability, perfect structure, and penchant for family companionship. Nevertheless, if you want to take your chances, please do so. Their litter is well-planned so they really offer quality puppies. However, if you want to verify their legitimacy, read our ultimate puppy buying guide for some proven tips on how to safely find a breeder online or how to find a puppy for sale while avoiding scams. The majority of the puppies being advertised here came from AKC champion bloodlines. Similar to the AKC, they have member breeders who also sell their puppies through the organization. My Golden Retriever Puppies — Originally, this began as a partnership between two families of breeders but grew to become a network of multiple breeders based in Ohio. Essentially, this is an advertising website where one can post their litter for sale. Anyone can buy a puppy from this bunch of Ohio breeders even though they are not from the same state. They screen breeders intensively before allowing them to post their puppies on their website and they also ensure that their dogs underwent health checks. They ship worldwide and most dogs come with health guarantees. Of course, if you want a dog from a champion bloodline, that would be more costly. Aside from this initial cost, you also have to provide some necessary items for your pup. They are bred slightly differently than the show Golden Retriever with a focus on slightly smaller dogs with a different coat that is more practical to care for. They are also a bit smaller and lighter than the show Golden Retriever. This part of the breed is focused on performance, and you will find that these dogs have more energy and are more high-drive than other Golden Retriever types. If you are looking for a field Golden Retriever puppy, you will want to be sure that you are working with a skilled breeder. Quality breeders of Golden Retrievers will make sure that they certify their puppies for breed-specific defects and that they take care to deliver healthy puppies to customers. You will have a great buying experience when you work with any of these breeders for your next Golden Retriever puppy. If you are looking for field-bred Golden Retriever Puppies for hunt tests, field trials, hunting, SAR, service, therapy, or outdoor enthusiasts, you have come to the right place, just need to read on! What is a Field Golden Retriever? These dogs are the hunting dogs and performance dogs of the breed. This part of the breed is the most closely related to the original foundational dogs that were used by Lord Tweedmouth to create the breed in the s. These dogs are a darker red in color, and they have a lighter coat that is still silky but not as long. The Field Golden Retriever has a high drive to work, and they can be higher energy than the other kinds of Golden Retrievers. These dogs are slim and lighter in build, and they have a more wedge-shaped head than the show Golden Retriever. These dogs will be inches tall if they are male or inches tall as females. These dogs will weigh pounds for males and for female dogs. Field line Golden Retrievers are still great family dogs, and they are lovely companion animals. While they are higher drive and higher energy than show dogs, they can still easily be exercised and kept happy if they are only going to be living life as a pet. Most people choose the Field Golden Retriever lines if they are going to be hunting or if they are going to be using their dogs for competition purposes. These dogs are bred to work hard, and they are the most driven to learn and partner with their humans. Field Golden Retrievers are also less prone to common health concerns that can plague show dogs. This means that you might not have to deal with hip and elbow issues that can plague other dogs within this breed. This can be a big relief for those who are worried about this issue. These dogs love to carry things around in their mouth, which makes sense because of their breeding for their jobs. You will want to provide your dog with a few toys that they are allowed to just carry around since this is such a big part of their DNA. Field Golden Retrievers are kind, and they love to learn new things. This part of the breed is a great choice, just like any other Golden Retriever animal for a family. This means that you can get a high-drive working partner that also loves to hang out with the family, go for walks, and spend time playing with other animals in the house. This is a lovely breed to choose for your pet, no matter what kind of job you want them to do or what kind of training you want to give to your pet. This is a full-time business for Packer and his family, and they create dogs that are suited for certified SAR use, competition use, and hunting. They also breed dogs that can do agility, participate in AKC competitions, and work as service animals. This breeder takes the time to make sure that their breeding program is top-notch, and they are constantly researching ways to improve their breeding process to generate the best litters for their customers. This is a breeder that believes that the original breed is the right area of focus for all breeders to make sure that the hunting dog portion of the breed is not lost to time. This breeder follows AAHA guidelines for vaccinations and for puppy preparation before they are moved into new homes. This is a great choice if you want your puppy to be prepared in every way to move into your home. This breeder also offers numerous health guarantees that you cannot secure from all breeders in this category. You will get access to all the usual hip and elbow dysplasia guarantees, as well as lots of other promises related to various health conditions that your pup will not have to struggle with. This is a very thorough and experienced breeder who will provide you with a puppy that is healthy, smart, and talented, and all for a reasonable puppy deposit. Due to the size of this organization, you will not have to wait long for your puppy in most cases either. To ensure the safety of our readers and the right fit for a new pet, we work hard to make sure only the most trusted breeders are featured on the site. We have a dedicated team that works hard and has done extensive research that involves checking both the breeder and their dogs, to verify that the breeders featured on our site are highly reputable and trustworthy. Feedback on Google and Facebook is also taken into consideration before they are listed as a breeder to have the highest standards possible. We hope that this gives you a little more information about how we list breeders on our site. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in California: Golden Retrievers are a hugely popular breed worldwide, thanks to their reputation as loyal pets and good hunting dogs. However, with so many breeders to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is the best fit for you and your family. California is a great state to get a Golden Retriever, and there are plenty of reputable and ethical breeders to choose from. I have compiled a list of the top 14 Golden Retriever breeders in California, based on their breeding history, customer reviews, and service quality. Most of these breeders are hobbyists who breed for love, not money. With this list, you should be able to find the perfect Golden Retriever for your family. They are located in Southern California and they pride themselves on being an ethical breeder of quality Golden Retriever dogs. They source their breeding stock from all over the USA and Europe. This allows them to get the best genetics possible and produce healthy offspring. They want all of their puppies to go to good homes where they will be loved as family members. Additionally, all puppies are sold with limited registration. This means that the new family will not be able to breed their dog. The breeder only wants their puppies to go to homes where they will be treated as family dogs and not used for breeding purposes. The pups come microchipped, vets checked, dewormed, and doggy door trained. They also come with a 1-year health guarantee. Golden Retriever Breeder Info:. There are various benefits of buying a puppy from a good breeder. In this section of the blog post, we will go through each of these. The best breeders in the world offer health guarantees. If your puppy covered by a health guarantee develops a disease later in his life, you might be eligible for a refund or replacementdepending upon the breeder. The breeder will help you figure out whether or not the breed is the right fit for you or your family. Moving on. The Top 5 Prize-winning Golden Retriever Breeders in the World In this section of the blog, we will list out the top five prize-winning Golden Retriever breeds in the world. The dogs that they breed have wonderful temperaments and outgoing, friendly personalities. The dogs that they breed have had Health Clearances done for more than six generations to ensure that you get a healthy, happy, and high-quality puppy. They breed Golden Retrievers with excellent temperaments and stunning looks. These dogs have clearances for thyroids, eyes, hearts, hips, and elbows to ensure that your puppy is healthy and happy. Amica Goldens Amica is Italian for playmate. Bonsaviour This UK-based pedigree Golden Retriever breeder believes in providing quality puppies that are healthy and even-tempered. These dogs are fed are BARF diet to ensure their health and well-being. These dogs are fully insured for health issues and are assured by the Kennel Club United Kingdom. These dogs make excellent companion dogs and are hip scored, elbow scored, and have clear eye certificates. Summing Up: The Top 5 Prize-winning Golden Retriever Breeders in the World We believe that getting your dog from a good breeder will help ensure that you have a happy, healthy, and even-tempered Golden Retriever. We highly believe that you should get your dog from a breeder that puts quality above quantity to ensure that your dog is well taken care of, healthy, and bred to be even-tempered and resilient. In this blog post, we went through some of the best prize-winning Golden Retriever breeders in the world. Did we cover everything you needed to know? Let us know in the comments section. More Dog's World. Golden Retriever Puppies — Exhaustive List of Breeders Official Standards for Golden Retrievers: Golden retrievers are a popular choice for pet owners because of their friendly and playful temperament. Official standards set by AKC dictate many qualities that define purebred golden retrievers. One set of these guidelines comes from the American Kennel Club AKC and includes everything from physical qualities to behavioral traits. Appearance: Golden Retrievers is a large, sturdy breed of dog, these dogs are strong and energetic. Temperament: They have a very mellow temperament that is amiable and dependable as well as trustworthy. Size: Golden Retriever typically weighs anywhere from 65 to 75 pounds for males and 55 to 65 pounds for females. Eyes Color: The eyes can be dark brown or medium brown in color. Coloring:The Golden Retriever golden in color with shades of different colors. To update our list, we conducted our own independent research and contacted many Golden Retriever owners. You can ensure that no backyard breeders or puppy mills will be included on our list. This breeder provides you the best of best Golden Retriever puppies that match your lifestyle and easily fit any family. All of their pups grew up in their home and play with other animals and children, which makes them easy to socialize. Moreover, they have vast experience in breeding Golden Retriever which can show that they have knows all the tactics and procedure to raise healthy and beautiful Golden Retriever puppies in America. All of their puppies are AKC registrable and microchipped. They not only provide breeding services, but they also provide useful resources and information on Golden Retriever pups which is very helpful for novice owners. This breeder is located in Southern California. Golden Retriever Breeder Info:. They take their breeding philosophy seriously, which calls for health testing and clearances to ensure the health and well-being of their puppies. They go the extra mile by providing spacious puppy yards and a custom-built puppy training center for potty breaks, nap time, and learning manners. Additionally, they pamper pooches with a certified dog groomer and offer programs like the Canine Good Citizen CGC Program, which emphasizes responsible pet ownership and etiquette. They use an ENS process to stimulate the nervous system. It also improves the immune system, the cardiovascular system, and increases stress tolerance. They also crate train all the puppies. All their pups are raised at home and are allowed to play and socialize with other animals on their 3-acre land. Best believe the pups enjoy prancing around the yard and swimming. Nicholbery Goldens have proudly produced top-notch therapy dogs and have a training academy for well-tempered and intelligent Goldens. The breeder is so famous that their waitlist is usually full 6 months to a year in advance, so make your way over to their website soon! They soon realized that the breed was neglected in development and socialization, and the rest is history. A member of the Golden Retriever Club of America, today, the breeder is known for producing some of the best Golden Retrievers. All their pups are raised and given basic training at home. They are also proudly AKC registered. Due to their successful breeding and training, they have begun a training program called Fluffy Buttz. The whole family enjoys taking care of the puppies and contributes in some way. As a result, they are well-socialized. On their acre land, they ensure each pup gets enough physical exercise and mental stimulation for a well-rounded, healthy dog. The family goes above and beyond to ensure every home gets the Golden Retriever of their dreams. Always take the time to visit a facility and meet the puppies in person.

Small, hypoallergenic and cuddly companions, these pups inherited some of the best qualities from both of their parents. This zesty little designer dog has captured the hearts of many Americans in recent years. With their low shedding coats and playful nature, this pup is suitable for almost every home. The fact the Shih Poo only needs a moderate amount of exercise and is extremely small makes them well suited to apartments and city living. These dogs do need lots of grooming but their gorgeous coats make this a pleasurable task. Read MoreLess Temperament: They are known for their lively, affectionate nature. These little dogs will have everyone smiling with their crazy antics. These guys are confident and friendly with everyone. They are well known for getting along with all people and dogs alike. The Poodle is known for their eagerness to please. These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable. They are loyal and form strong bonds with their humans. Toy Poodles have a reputation for being somewhat highly strung. Adult Weight:. Life Span Did You Know? The Shih-Poo has an adorable, alert expression and small, sturdy body. They can take after the Poodle parent, the Shih-Tzu parent, or be any combination of the characteristics of both parent breeds. Shih-Poos tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate. They love their families and are avidly devoted to them. They tend to be friendly to other dogs, strangers, other pets, and children. They tend to do better with older children who have been taught how to carefully handle a dog. Due to their small size, a Shih-Poo can be easily hurt by rough play or accidental falls. They can do well in families with younger children as long as any time with them is closely supervised. The Shih-Poo tends to be a courageous little dog. They make excellent watchdogs because they are very alert. However, they can become territorial and barking can become a nuisance if left unchecked. Early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies and help your Shih-Poo puppy grow into a well-behaved, confident dog. This designer dog breed is highly adaptable. They do well in apartments as well as in larger homes and tend to do well in most climates. They are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, so they do best in moderate climates. Due to their small size, they may need to layer up for short trips outside when winter rolls in. Because Shih-Poos crave affection and love their humans, they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. The Shih-Poo is a generally healthy designer dog breed. Although the genetic mix can sometimes result in winning the genetic lottery, a mixed dog breed can still be susceptible to health conditions common in one or both of the parent breeds in the cross. By talking with the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances, you can allay several of these potential health concerns. This designer dog breed is highly intelligent and can be easy to train. However, they can also have a stubborn streak that can cause some difficulty for first-time dog owners. This is often easily remedied with the help of some puppy training classes. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but it can be done with plenty of training, consistency, and patience. Crate training can also help. Shih-Poos respond best to positive, reward-based training. Whether with praise, treats, or play, you can reward your Shih-Poo for the behavior you like, which will encourage them to do more of it. Coat types and colors can vary greatly in your Shih-Poo. They can have the long, silky, and straight coat of the Shih Tzu, the short, curly, and non-shedding coat of the Poodle, or a combination of both. Most Shih-Poos end up with a curly or wavy, low or non-shedding coat. However, you should be prepared for your Shih-Poo to exhibit either coat type of the parent breeds. This coat looks its best with a combination of brushing a few times a week at home and then professional grooming every four to six weeks. This will help remove tangles and loose hair and prevent matting. Regular dental care is also important. Small dogs are more prone to dental disease. Drop down ears, or floppy ears, are more prone to ear infections because they can trap moisture, dirt, or debris. Daily walks and some indoor playtime will give this dog plenty of exercise. Beyond that, most of them can keep up with you on longer walks and can even compete in dog sports like rally, obedience, and agility. Be sure to check with your vet first and get your dog cleared before taking on any rigorous activities or training for dog sports. A Shih-Poo will generally stand 8 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 7 and 20 pounds. The size of the mother dog can give you a good idea of what to expect in your dog. This designer dog breed usually lives for 15 years or more. Some have even been known to live for 21 years! Featured Shih-Poo Article. What coat colors are available? The coat color of a Shih Poo will vary. They can come in black, brown, white, cream, apricot, gold, red and brindle or a combination of all or some of those colors. Will I need to regularly groom my Shih Poo? Daily to a few times per week brushings along with regular scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks will keep your little ones coat soft and clean. Will a Shih Poo make for a good family pet? They also really enjoy the company and comfort of older people. With patience and consistency, they will be trained in no time. How much exercise will my Shih Poo need? Since they are smaller dogs, they will require less exercise. Daily walks between 30 minutes will be plenty to keep them fit and active. They also love to have indoor play, so make sure to keep lots of safe toys available to them. What is the life expectancy of a Shih Poo? The average life expectancy of a Shih Poo is between 14 and 17 years. What is the temperament of a Shih Poo? These spirited little pups are full of love and energy. They are companion dogs, so they thrive in the company of others, but prefer the company of older adults. Training them to control their barking is best when it is corrected at a very young age. Does the Shih Poo shed a lot? No, they have very minimal shedding. They make for great companions for those that suffer with allergies. What kind of coat does the Shih Poo have? The coat can vary depending on which parent they take after more. Their coat can be wavy and wiry like the poodle or soft and straight like the Shih Tzu. It may also be a healthy mix of both. Do they adjust well to their living environment? Yes, they adjust very well. They are just as happy and content in a small apartment as they are in a big home. They need to be around people, so it is best not to leave them for long periods of time. If they become too upset or anxious they can get destructive. Shih Poo Reviews.