golden retriever puppy biting tips

More Use tab to navigate through the menu items. As a registered Golden Retriever breeder for over 30 years, our family prides itself on raising exceptional family pets. Golden Retrievers are unlike other breeds in that they believe themselves to be a part of the family. We too share that mindset and work to provide families with the blessing that comes with being a golden owner. Our kennel only breeds Goldens with the sweet temperaments and good looks that meet the Golden Standard we have all come to love and expect in regards to our breed. The loyal and intelligent nature of Golden Retrievers is the reason our family knew they were the perfect dog to raise, and lends itself to being the perfect addition to your family. Our facility and home provides the care and love, as well of plenty of room to run that puppies need to become the best family pets they can be. In addition, our puppies leave at 8 weeks with all necessary shots, AKC paperwork, and state mandated forms you will need. Please feel free to browse the website for pictures of our animals, grounds, and upcoming litters! Price: Low to High Pyrenees pups We Pyrenees puppies family raised we are asking or best offer text or call .Will come with health certificate from the vet shots wormed food toys blanket. Located in Watertown NY willing to meet part w.AKC 1st shots, dewormed, health cert. Vet checked with first shots and wormed. Ready now .All pups will have 1st shots, worming, microchipped and vet checked before leaving. Parents are health tested by Paw Prints and Embark. Sweet, smart, non shed shots, vet checked. Raised in our home, well socialized with young children, other dogs and cats, l.Located near Wa.They will be pounds full grown and have their first set of shots. The mom is a family dog and i.Hypoallergenic, non shedding, raised.Up to date on all shots and worming, Akc papers and one month pet insurance. Crate training now, Started basic training she kn.They are ready for their forever home any day! Born June 8th. Vaccinated, dewormed and vet checked. If interested in giving.Family raised. Parents on premises. Top quality hunting and tracking lin.Will come vet checked and papered. Both parents on site! We have answers. What class of dog are Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Syracuse? Golden Retrievers are classified as part of the Sporting Group. This group includes retrievers, setters, pointers and spaniels. They are categorized as a "Gundog" class which is specifically trained to aid in hunting. They were originally bred as working dogs, possessing a superior sense of smell, intelligence, and an extremely strong retrieving instinct. These popular dogs are friendly, reliable, and eager to please. Golden Retrievers are known for their loyalty and obedience, making them an ideal companion for hunting and family living. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Syracuse hypoallergenic? Although Golden Retrievers are not considered to be hypoallergenic, they are among the lower-shedding breeds and may be a good choice for people with mild allergies. It is important to remember, though, that Golden Retrievers are still capable of producing some dander, which can be the trigger for many allergic reactions. Therefore, it may be wise to have a home allergy test done before bringing a Golden Retriever into your household, to see if their fur or dander will affect your allergies. How do I know what not to feed Syracuse Golden Retriever puppies for sale? Knowing what not to feed Golden Retrievers is essential for their healthy diet and well-being. It is best to avoid giving them human food, as a lot of these items are not suitable for dogs, and may contain toxins or ingredients that can cause health issues. Generally speaking, it is recommended to feed them dry or wet formulated dog food specifically designed for the nutritional needs of Golden Retrievers. While treats can be a special treat from time to time, you must ensure that the treats are high-quality and provide valuable nutrition for the dog. Am I ready to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Syracuse? To prepare your home for your new Golden Retriever, start by puppy-proofing the house. Make sure any electrical cords and potential chewables are tucked away, and block off areas with hazardous items or stairs. Add a few soft, washable toys and items the pup can chew on safely. Next, get a comfortable bed and a kennel. Both should be put in a quiet area they can call their own. Finally, put down a potty pad for your pup to use while they are getting used to your home. How big do Golden Retrievers for sale in Syracuse get? Golden Retrievers typically reach an average height of 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Some individuals may be smaller, while others may be larger, depending on genetics. Golden Retrievers generally weigh anywhere between 55 to 75 pounds when fully grown. They are considered a medium-sized breed and typically have a thick double coat that can come in three distinct colors: golden, g engine, or cream. Golden Retrievers tend to have a relatively long lifespan of 10 to 12 years. They have become known for their laid back demeanor and loyalty to their family. Do Golden Retriever puppies near Syracuse like to swim? The Golden Retriever is a breed that is famed for its agility in water and swimming is not only something they enjoy, but it's a great way to keep your pup healthy and in shape. As water dogs, Golden Retrievers were bred and developed to participate in activities like water retrieval, and they remain very active swimmers and divers. With their love of fetch and swimming, a Golden Retriever can really excel in activities such as dock diving or even water rescue. Are Golden Retrievers in Syracuse good with kids? Yes, Golden Retrievers are wonderful with children. They are known to be gentle, patient, and loving, making them an excellent choice of companion for any household. Golden Retrievers are also very intelligent, making them easy to train and great for kids who can safely learn about obedience and commands. In addition, these dogs have a friendly personality and are known to be good at cuddling and comforting young children. As a result, many families with kids pick a Golden Retriever as their ideal pet. How many minutes per day do I need to train Syracuse Golden Retrievers for sale? Training a Golden Retriever is an involved task that should be tailored to each individual dog. Generally, the recommended time for training varies depending on the age and individual needs of your pet. For puppies, it's recommended to aim for 15 to 20 minutes of training each day. During this time, the focus should be on teaching basic behaviors such as sit, stay, come, and lay down. As the dog grows, the amount of time spent training can slowly increase, eventually reaching up to around 30 minutes.

Providing families with their new best friend.We are a hobby breeder located in west central Ohio about 45 minutes west of Columbus. Here at Henry AKC Goldens we pride ourselves in providing families with high quality puppies that are given the love and attention every puppy deserves. Our puppies range in color from creams to dark reds. We look forward to meeting new families and sharing our love for the golden retriever breed. About Us! My name is Emily Henry and my husband, Jerrod and myself started our family 17 years ago. We are raising our family on our dairy farm where we milk a little over cows, three times a day as well as crop farm 3, acres near Honda Marysville plant. While the dairy and hay making keeps my husband busy, the kids and I love spending time with our dogs and the puppies. They are all treated like family around here. If the kids are playing outside, you are bound to find our pups playing in the yard. If we are busy feeding calves, you are sure to find the dogs patiently waiting to lick up any extra calf milk that is not needed. If I go for a run, you will likely find one of them at the end of the leash. They have even been our "guard dogs" on 2 different instances of individuals coming to our door. They are known for their calm and gentle demeanor but they will alert and protect you when called to duty. After losing our beloved "farm dog" golden back in , we decided it was time to get a new dog in .At this time, we searched high and low, from 5 local humane societies to golden retriever rescues. To no avail, we were either not "qualified" to have a golden that was not fenced in nor were there any goldens at the local shelters. That is when my children decided to purchase Bella from a breeder. After much time, patience and research, we decided to take on breeding. This opportunity turned into something greater than we could have imagined. These girls have brought so much joy to our home. Although it is a lot of hard work, we cherish every moment and are blessed with the opportunity to provide families with their new best friend s. We look forward to meeting your family!! She is going to be so well loved". Tom Thorpe Blog Golden Retriever dogs are so popular that you can find a breeder or two in every state. As one of the 12 Midwest states, Ohio is known for its love of football. The Buckeye State also boasts of massive farmlands. Aside from produce, these farms are also a great place in raising the outgoing Golden Retriever breed. Below, I listed 10 legitimate breeders all over Ohio that you can contact to buy a healthy and well-structured pup. Mackenzie and her family live in a 2-acre rural area where their dogs receive ample care. The puppies are also allowed to roam to be desensitized to various stimuli. Also, each puppy is handled from birth using the Early Neurological Stimulation method. All the Goldie pups are also up to date with deworming and vaccinations. You can always apply for full registration, but it is subject to approval. They are a hobby breeder, so only a maximum of two litters are produced within a year. The best part is that their Goldies came from champion bloodlines that excel in the field. He has a selective breeding program that ensures each litter will be topnotch working dogs or family pets. Take note that Craig only does airport pickup, site pickup, and ground transportation for the puppies. T and CHIC-certified breeder. All her puppies have been champion-sired to guarantee their temperament and structure. All the parents of the Goldie pups Colleen produces have been cleared for any breed-specific genetic disorders. Also, the litter is raised and cared for around three children. This gives the puppies ample socialization and desensitization before they are placed in their forever homes. Colleen will also send a health certificate, proof of vaccination, and a food starter bag. Colleen also provides a 3-year health guarantee, but you must get the puppy examined by a vet within 3 days after the purchase. If so, you should head to the Golden Sunrise Retrievers. Rebecca Cole, the breeder, pays a lot of attention to the health and structure of each Golden Retriever she sells. On top of her club memberships, Rebecca is no doubt an expert breeder. Rebecca started breeding Golden Retrievers in .Each of her puppies comes with a 2-year health guarantee and a starter kit. Breeder Arthur Stoller ensures that each of their puppies also has an excellent personality. With this, Arthur can provide a month health guarantee for all genetic defects that may arise. The pups are also raised around two children, making them perfect family pets. They can also provide a limited or full AKC registration. However, the latter will cost you an additional fee and requirements. They are a hobby breeder that produces high-quality puppies for a price all families can afford. Despite the lower price tag, each Goldie in the litter will be socialized and desensitized starting day 3. They are raised around children and adults to ensure that they will become excellent family pets. The puppies will also be exposed to various sounds, smells, and textures. Unlike other breeders that sell the pups at 8 weeks, Cynthia only places the puppies to buyers once they turn 10 weeks old. This gives them enough time to bond with the litter and be socialized around children and various stimuli. Each puppy will be sent with a microchip and a limited AKC registration. Waiting time: At least 6 months Puppy cost: Please contact the breeder Breeder contact info: CLaws aol. This makes their Golden Retrievers excellent family pets who are desensitized to children. Aside from that, Berryhill Retrievers are champion-sired for the best health and structure. Each one also undergoes cardiac evaluation, hip and elbow dysplasia tests, and eye certification. Overall, each puppy is covered by a month health guarantee for any eye or hip problems. All the pups are also vet-evaluated by the time they are born. This breeder has been competing in conformation for as early as .From there, they started offering stud service until they decided to breed Golden Retrievers. Each puppy undergoes cardiac evaluation, hip and elbow dysplasia test, eye certification, and more. This guarantees that the Golden Retrievers are free of any genetic defect. So far, Jan only offers pick-up for the sold puppies. You can inquire further should you need to meet up at the nearest airport or have the puppies shipped. Aside from being a breeder, Penny is also a registered nurse and has been actively involved in local breeding events. For the puppies she cares for, she conducts rigorous health tests. This is aside from the genetic testing to guarantee that the Goldie is in the best shape. Her puppies are also cheaper than other breeders but raised with lots of love and care. These are unhealthy canines that are mired with genetic defects. Q: Is Ohio known for puppy mills? Around 13 problematic puppy mills are located in the state, where dogs are forced to reproduce non-stop. Q: Does Baltic, Ohio have puppy mills? Q: Are all Amish dog breeders puppy mills? A: While there are many reported puppy mills ran by Amish people, not all Amish-owned breeding businesses are classified as such. You can still find an Amish dog breeder with a full AKC registration and affiliation with various breed clubs. The 10 breeders we listed here are legitimate and trusted by many pet owners. Make sure that you ask for documentation, health checks, and AKC certifications. What do you think of these dog breeders? Share your thoughts below! Share 0 Shares The Golden Retriever is a dog breed that is known to be friendly, active, and outgoing. In fact, their sweet and loyal demeanor makes the Golden one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States according to the American Kennel Club. However, with popularity unfortunately comes to a lot of breeders that are not breeding the Golden Retriever reputably. As a result, it is very important that prospective Golden Retriever owners make sure that a breeder is reputable before getting a dog from them. A reputable Golden Retriever breeder will do health testing to ensure the health of their lines, and they will also care a lot about the health and well-being of their dogs. Engler Goldens Engler Golden Retrievers in Ohio This small Golden Retriever breeder focuses on breeding dogs that are healthy, trainable, and have great temperaments. In order to create and uphold healthy bloodlines this breeder health tests all of her dogs before breeding them. In addition to this, all puppies are sold with a one-year health guarantee that covers genetic conditions. Of course, all puppies are also kept up to date on all of their vet-recommended and age-appropriate vaccinations, vet visits, and deworming. Puppies are microchipped before going to their forever homes as well. To ensure that all of her puppies are trainable and have good temperaments, they receive an extensive amount of socialization from an early age. Puppies are also introduced to basic potty training, crate training, and are introduced to good puppy manners before going to their new homes. Name of Owner. Purebred Golden Retriever Puppies Buying a puppy is a big decision. We made that decision easy. Not knowing where your puppy has come from could lead to genetic health and socialization issues, and ultimately disappointment. There are even tons of puppy scams on the internet, some of which even try to imitate us! We believe dogs are not like family — they ARE family! Unlike other puppy adoption agencies in Ohio, we allow and actually encourage you to meet our Golden Retriever puppies for sale before you agree to take one home. Remember, too, that when it comes to getting a puppy, ultimately, you get what you pay for. You get a Golden Retriever you love, vetted for good health, from a breeder you trust. He has a very fun loving spirit and has made our family complete. Marcus and his family are very gracious and great to work with. We would highly recommend them for anyone looking for a Golden! She will be turning 9 months in a few weeks. I had a wonderful experience getting her through your company! So glad I got her. All Rights Reserved. Zoey Zoey has been such a good dog and mother, but we thought it was time for her to retire and take it easy. She has has had some of the cutest pups and we are so glad that we got to share her with you all through them! She is a beautiful dark red color, very active and loves attention! She is also a great mother to her puppies! Roxie is AKC certified and she has been Genetic tested and is clear in everything, but has one copy of ichthyosis mutation. Our son Benson has claimed her as his own. She is a playful dog and loves nothing better than a good race! As soon as she hears Benson start the 4wheeler she is right there to see if she can keep up with him! Bretta is AKC certified and she has been genetic tested and is clear of genetic disorders. Maci This is Maci! She is the darkest of our red dogs and is an excellent mother when she has puppies! Maci is AKC certified and she has been Genetic tested and is clear in everything, but has one copy of ichthyosis mutation. She is sweet tempered just like her mother Zoey. Chloe is AKC certified and she has been Genetic tested and is clear in everything, but has one copy of ichthyosis mutation. There are 6 boys and 2 girls! All the puppies have been vet checked and are clear. Please text or call Carol at or email troyercarol90 gmail. They puppies will be ready to take to their forever homes on Sept. Anya has found her forever home! Meet Magnum.

Joyride Harness Customer Testimonials Searching for the best dog harness feels like a tedious task especially when it comes to certain breeds. Boxers, for example, are energetic dog breeds with broad or uniquely shaped chests that can pose some challenges when it comes to searching for the right dog harness size. This is where Joyride Harness steps in to offer relief to boxer dog owners nationwide! Shopping online for the best dog harness for your boxer is now easy with Joyride Harness because of our customer service and our resources on our website that can help you determine the best size for your boxer. You can use our "By Weight" size chart or you can use our "By Girth" size chart. As far as shopping for boxers goes though, we recommend going by girth size chart since the most common pain points is finding the right size for your boxer's large or broad chest. When you receive your harness in the mail, the first thing you'll do is put it on your boxer, buckling one strap behind their front legs under their chest and using the velcro strap across the front of the dog's chest. You'll then turn your focus to the adjustment straps. The durable mesh design of the harness allows you to tighten the straps at the adjustable points to mold to a perfect fit. You can find more information on exchanges at this link. What are the other benefits to this harness? We've shared with you countless dog owner reviews from customers with puppies, small dogs, health issues with concerns of their dog's neck, small dogs and big dogs that pull, service dogs, and more. Now, we're sharing with you real Joyride Harness customer testimonials explaining why this harness is the best harness for boxers. Boxer puppy owners and adult boxer owners, take a look at these! Andrea D. But this harness is perfect! The female is 11 months and the male is 1 year 4 months and about 60 lbs each. The XL fits perfect with plenty of room to grow. They love it and so do I! David S. We have a 5-month-old Boxer that can be a hand full on a leash. This harness really helps! So easy to fit. Works like a charm for my 6-year-old Boxer who just wants to pull. It's a new walking experience for us! I would never buy another brand. I have a one-year-old Boxer who is super strong and this helps tremendously with pulling. I have full control over him with this harness. You can view all submitted reviews by checking out this page. You can search by breed with our updated review features! We also have more blog posts that round-up reviews based on different dog types for your convenience. Joyride Harness Reviews For Big Dogs Additionally, if you have sizing questions you can always reach our team through the contact form on our website if the sizing charts provided on this page do not suffice! Want more? Feel free to follow us on Instagram at joyrideharness and take a look at more furbaby photos! New to Joyride Harness and need some help picking the right size for your doggo? We have a detailed informational blog post that you can check out: Click Here To View Share this post. The coat is short, skintight, tough and shiny. Color: Red or brindle. Ginger is permitted of various shades - from light yellow to reddish-brown, however, middle tones are the most preferable i. Head: Attaches to the appearance of the boxer of particular identity, it should be in correct proportion to the body and appear neither light nor too heavy. The muzzle should be as broad as possible and powerful. The beauty of the head provides the correct ratio of muzzle and skull. During the examination of the head from any position: top, front or side - the muzzle should remain in correct proportion to the skull, ie, it should never appear too small. The head should be dry, with the skin without wrinkles. However, the wrinkles on the forehead appear spontaneously when a dog raises its ears or if the ears are not cropped, at increased attention. From the base of the nose bridge on both sides descends permanently marked wrinkles. Black Mask is limited by muzzle, clearly visible on the general color and should not give gloomy expression to the boxer. Ears: Natural by its nature, its ears have an appropriate amount; planted on the each side of the head at the highest points of the skull , in peace fitting to the cheeks and hang forward when the dog is alert, with clear fold. Eyes: Dark, not too small, not bulging or sunken. Teeth: The lower jaw is longer than the top and slightly curved upwards. Bite is undershot. The upper jaw is wide at the base and slightly tapering towards the end. Teeth strong and healthy. The incisors are located exactly in one line as far as it possible, the fangs large and wide apart. Neck: The ridge of the neck falls by an elegantly curved arch from the occiput to the withers. The neck should be long enough, round, powerful, muscled and dry. Body: The withers is well expressed. The body from the withers to the croup should be short, firm, smooth, wide and very muscular. The croup is slightly sloping, is a bit rounded, broad. Boxers have long and wide pelvis, especially females. Chest: The chest is deep, reaching to the elbows. The depth of chest is half of the height at the withers. The front part of the chest is well developed. The ribs are well arched but not of a barrel shape, extending far back. Belly: Underline stretches back in an elegant bend. The groin is short, moderately tight. Limbs: The front limbs should be straight when viewed from the front, should be parallel to each other and have strong bones. The back part is well muscled, the muscles are tight and stand very expressively. The hind limbs when viewed from behind should be straight. Tail: Is set highly enough. Attractive features: Smart, disciplined, steady, calm and watchful and at the same time, self-confident, fearless and enduring dog. The type of behavior is balanced - agile. The boxer retains the honesty of the character and deprived of malice, even in an old age, when few other dogs often become "duddy. It is faithful to his master, tied to the entire family and home. This is a courageous defender, gentle with friends, but distrustful to the strangers, cheerful and friendly in play, but fearless in the attack. The boxer inherited nobility and courage from its ancestors. It has an honest and open disposition, without falsehood and treachery. This dog is very amenable to training and is very understanding. It is easily trained because its willingness to obey, its courage and fighting qualities, natural sharpness and excellent sense of smell. The Boxers are unpretentious and cleanly, and therefore useful for keeping in the apartment. Select Options German Boxer or just Boxer is a representative of large, heavily-built and short-haired breed. Boxers, which had been bred in Germany, became widely known as guards. Boxer is a fine companion and a sincere friend. German Boxers are watchdogs, bodyguards, police and K9 dogs. Boxers are intelligent and balanced. They can be guide and assistance dogs due to these qualities. The Boxer dog is very active by nature and likes to be outdoors, to walk for long, to play in the open air. Despite the dog's sociability and friendliness towards the owner and family members, its attitude to strangers is cautious. What Is the Origin of a Boxer Dog? Boxer's ancestors are Bulldogs, Mastiffs and Bullenbaisers do not exist nowadays. The breed was represented first at Munich dog show in .Boxers were used in German army in the World War I as letter carriers and scouts. When the dog wants to play, it starts moving paws in the air like boxing. Such a special manner, which makes Boxers different from the other dogs, predetermined the name of the breed. What Is a Boxer Dog Temperament? Cheerful, playful, curious, energetic - these features characterize German Boxers to the full. The dogs are faithful to their owners and are very much attached to family members. A well trained Boxer gets along with children very well. It will be not only a great companion to your child, but also a secure guard. Good-mannered and socially adapted Boxer will get on fine with the other dogs living at your home and even with cats. However, small animals and birds is a real "temptation" for Boxers. The dog can be taught not to touch them, and it will not do this in your presence. But it is better not to leave Boxer alone with them. Adults have a calm temperament that is a direct result of proper training at early age. The dog will show suspicion of strangers all his life, bark at them and keep out of the owner if not to train communicative qualities. Boxer remains spontaneous and childish until the age of , although it grows up by the age of 1. Many owners complain that Boxers do not run the commands, but this breed needs time to learn and reinforce new information. The owners ensure that this is the case then: the dog runs all the commands it has been taught for a long time eventually. How to Train Boxer Dogs? Boxers are smart and coachable dogs. They are balky and perceive new information selectively at the same time. They refuse running many commands and prefer to obey only those ones they like. Some owners believe that Boxers should be trained with stakes and incentives by punishing for disobedience and encouraging for commands running. Punishment is needles in Boxer training because the dogs perceive this method badly. Positive reinforcement dog training praise, treats, stroking is the best suitable for Boxers. You will certainly achieve excellent results using particular set of commands during training. Boxer remembers learnt commands for a long time with the correct and clear goals setting. Boxer dog training is started from the moment when the puppy is at your home and full training — from 3 months. First off, Boxer is trained basic commands — "Sit", "Down", "Heel". You can train the pet to run the command "Come" when it learns the previous ones. The "Come" is the main command, which Boxer should run in any situation and at the first attempt. German Boxer loves outside activities. The dog likes long walks and it will become a perfect companion for the person loving morning and evening run. Make sure you have all necessary supplies for edutainment of your German Boxer: harness, collar, lead, toys, bite tugs. Contact us via e-mail info dog-harnesses-store. Hi, I am very pleased with my delivery time and the quality of this harness. The work is marvelous. My dog looks gorgeous with this designer dog harness! Many thanks, Sincerely. Thank you very much for such a durable and comfortable nylon dog collar!!! You answered our questions promptly via e-mail. We highly recommend these collars and will be repeat customers if we're in need of another dog collar. From: Scott, USA You are welcome to visit our Facebook and Instagram pages and get to know about special offers, sales and discounts first!

The mother dog was my first bitch to give birth naturally. First bitch to give birth naturally Every breeder someday has bad luck; for me it was in and .An unsuccessful litter by means of a C-section and all the pups were still-born. Then a litter with only one pup, again a C-section. I had no choice but to keep this one pup, otherwise I would have lost one of my two breeding lines. Nobody could understand why I kept Happy because she was no beauty. I knew, however, that I had never had such an energetic and tenacious bitch. From the outset, these never-ending C-sections and unnatural rearings have been a thorn in my side. To this day, many breeders believe that English Bulldogs cannot give birth naturally and would die during a natural birth. The C-section appointment is determined in advance, without giving the bitch a chance to whelp. The mother dog is often so groggy after the birth due to the strong anaesthesia that the pups are not left with the mother because of the danger of being crushed. The mother comes into contact with her pups only as a milk bar. These breeders are convinced that they are raising their pups with special devotion! On 22 July , Happy began having dilation contractions, and I telephoned my veterinarian as usual for the birth. He had gone hunting and was not available. What now? So I tried what the vast majority of breeders fear to this day. Success: my first naturally born litter with six perfectly healthy pups L1 litter , whose mother could take care of them day and night. Happy, by the way, lived to be almost 12 years old and became the first Swiss Veteran Champion. A pup has just been born. This birth and the natural rearing the mother dog was always with the pups were a sensation on Facebook. I am now looking back on the fifth generation of naturally birthing Bulldog bitches, who have, by the way, very frequently placed very high in international shows. A Complete Guide Having a litter of puppies is an exciting and tiring experience! To watch those well-rounded puppies grow and head off to their forever homes to be lifetime companions is a magical moment. The entire puppy raising process starts at birth. Bulldogs have many health issues and daily exercise is taxing on their stocky frames. With their stubby legs and small bodies, many wonder if a bulldog can give birth naturally. In general, bulldog puppies are often too large for the birth canal. This requires the aid of a trained veterinarian to perform a c-section. However, some bulldog breeds do not require c-sections and can have a natural birth. Breeding bulldogs is complicated and not always the same from start to finish. While some conditions and issues are common when our bulldogs are expecting, bulldog breeds often present a few challenges. Some issues are natural breeding, whether they can whelp naturally, and even if they are pregnant which can be surprisingly difficult to determine. Can Bulldogs Get Pregnant Naturally? While the answer is yes, bulldogs can get pregnant naturally. First, with many bulldog breeds, the chest, shoulders, and head are much larger than their hips. What this means is that the dog is usually heavier in the front than they are in the back. When a male bulldog mounts a female, his front weight pushes down the backend of the female bulldog. This makes it very difficult for them to obtain a tie. Is My Bulldog Pregnant? Unfortunately, signs are few and far between for pregnant bulldogs and all dogs in general. In fact, most signs and symptoms do not occur until your bulldog is over 40 days pregnant. However, when you start to see signs, you can quickly determine if your female is pregnant or not. If you find that your dog is napping more than usual, especially around week 3, there is a good chance she is pregnant. Morning Sickness: I already mentioned this, but dogs can have mild sickness. This means she has decreased appetite around day 21 and may vomit. Increase in Appetite: This can be difficult to determine, but as the weeks progress, you should find that your pregnant dog eats more than usual. Nipple Changes: Every dog is different when it comes to nipple changes. Some changes are early in the pregnancy and others have none until close to delivery. However, you can usually spot differences in nipples by 3 or 4 weeks. Nipples will be slightly darker and will start to look rounded in shape. Finally, you may see hair loss around the nipples as her body prepares for nursing. Changes in Temperament: Another symptom that varies from dog to dog, changes in temperament are a good sign. Often, bulldogs become clingier or go off on their own. Any abnormal behavior for your dog could be a sign that she is pregnant. Your dog gains weight if she is pregnant, but most of the weight gain is seen closer to the end of the pregnancy. Knowing if your bulldog is pregnant is tricky because female bulldogs show few signs. How Long are Bulldogs Pregnant All dogs follow the same pregnancy schedule, regardless of breed, and will usually deliver their puppies on day 63 from ovulation. Breeders follow a guideline of 59 to 70 days from the date of the first breeding. Your bulldog should deliver any time in those 11 days, but frequently, they will deliver on day .You will usually know the date of ovulation and the vet will simply do the c-section on day 63 or when the bulldog shows signs that labor is imminent. What is a Bulldog Pregnancy Like? The best way to understand your pregnant bulldog is to learn about the weeks of pregnancy. With dogs, week 1 of pregnancy starts on the day of ovulation or the day of the first breeding. Bulldogs are pregnant for roughly 9 weeks before they deliver and a lot is happening during those weeks. Your bulldog female, or bitch, is bred this week and you may notice that she is a bit tired. Life should return to normal during this week. Regular activities should continue, and your dog will eat a normal amount of food. Your dog, more than likely, is in heat for another week , but you can continue with her regular schedule. She may be her usual self and return to how she was prior to her heat. During this week the vulva stays slightly swollen However, this can be hard to notice, especially in maiden bitches. Week Three: During this time, the embryos are finally attaching to the lining in the uterus. Too much weight gain can cause complications. During this week, you can get a blood test to detect relaxin, which indicates pregnancy. A slight increase in food is all that is needed. Your female bulldog can continue her usual activities and exercise at this stage of pregnancy. Week Five: Between day 30 and 35, after the first breeding, you can schedule an ultrasound to determine if your furry friend is pregnant. With your pregnant bulldog, you should start to see some weight gain. In addition, her appetite will increase and will need more food on a daily basis. Be careful not to overfeed her. In addition, avoid any strenuous activity, but incorporate daily exercise. Your pregnant bulldog may be tired and need small, frequent meals throughout the day. Week Six: You may notice that week six is when your bulldog begins to reduce how much she is eating. To help offset this, portion her meals into more feedings per day. Mood wise, she may be sleeping more. You may find that she is very uncomfortable and should monitor her behavior to know what she needs. See also Do Bulldogs Fart? And How to Stop It! Week Seven: Week seven is similar to the previous week. Your female will be uncomfortable, and she may start looking for a quiet place to sleep. She may also become clingier than usual. When week seven arrives, you are getting closer to delivery day! You should be able to feel puppies moving and your pregnant bulldog may start losing her hair around her nipples. Now is the time to start setting up a space for her to give birth. Week Eight: If you are planning to do an x-ray, now is the week to do it. During this time, the skeletons of the puppies have calcified enough to be picked up on an x-ray. This is a great way to find out how many puppies your bulldog is having and will help you plan for the delivery or c-section. Your pregnant bulldog may start producing milk this week, however, not all dogs produce milk at this stage. Some can start producing shortly after the puppies are born. Now is the time to keep a close eye on your female. Week Nine: This is the week when your pregnant bulldog is due! She can go any time and you want to watch for nesting behavior. In addition, her temperature should spike before dropping down by about 2 degrees Fahrenheit. Even if you are planning a c-section, monitor her temperature in case your pregnant bulldog goes into labor before the scheduled surgery. Bulldog Pregnancy Cycle. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Dystocia difficulty in giving birth can occur for a variety of reasons. Both affect the English bulldog Johnston et al and lead to a very high rate of dystocia in this breed. Abnormalities of pelvic shape have been investigated in relation to dystocia in the Boston terrier and Scottish terrier Eneroth et al but, as far as we are aware, there have been no corresponding studies in the English bulldog. The foetal factor that is most likely to cause dystocia is a large head Johnston et al .The larger the puppy the greater the risk. The English bulldog is a brachycephalic breed. Dogs with brachycephalic airway disease have a shortened and distorted upper airway, narrow nostrils, an elongated soft palate, and an abnormal larynx voice box. Secondary to these airway obstructions, these dogs can develop collapsed airways, especially involving the larynx and trachea. These defects commonly make it difficult for the breed to breathe adequately whilst undertaking normal activity. Stress caused by exercise, excitement, heat or giving birth can exacerbate this and lead to collapse and death. It is likely that a proportion of the large number of caesarean sections carried out on English bulldogs are elective procedures arranged by breeders to avoid any chance of dystocia and the risk of asphyxiation of whelping bitches as might otherwise occur during the normal birth process Harvey .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact Dystocia is a severe welfare problem for the affected bitch and, if untreated, it will usually lead to her death. Treatment of a bitch that is having difficulty giving birth involves transportation of the dog to a veterinary practice for examination and imposes further stressors for a brachycephalic dog with breathing difficulties. Uterine contractions are painful and control of this pain is difficult in the home environment, so any delay in the birth process causes more prolonged and severe pain than usual. Caesarean section is usually required to treat English bulldogs with dystocia. Unplanned, emergency caesarean sections are likely to have a higher welfare impact than either natural birth or elective caesarean, and a higher death rate for the puppies. Caesarean sections are major surgical procedures and anaesthesia presents particular risks to brachycephalic dogs because of their abnormal respiratory tracts and breathing difficulties. It is likely that a significant proportion of caesarean sections in English bulldogs are performed electively. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact If untreated, dystocia may continue for up to hours although, as this time goes on, mortality among the puppies will increase. If a caesarean is performed, there will be pain from the surgery for some days although effective analgesia should be available. A further issue is that if live puppies have been delivered and the bitch is to rear them normally then their sucking on a teat close to the surgical wound may cause her pain in the first week, or so, after the procedure. Return to top 4. English bulldogs were found in a study undertaken in Canada and the USA, to be in the top five of the breeds most likely to have elective and emergency caesarians Moon et al .From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are English bulldogs Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around 50, Return to top 5. Diagnosis A normal labour has three stages. In the first stage, the body prepares itself for birth with the cervix relaxing and dilating. During this stage, if left alone, the bitch in the wild would seek seclusion and dig a den. The second stage involves the loss of uterine fluids, progressively more vigorous straining, and birth of the puppies. The third stage of labour is delivery of the foetal membranes and, in dogs, this stage can be concurrent with the second stage, as membranes are sometimes expelled with their puppy. In some cases of dystocia, stage two never starts and dystocia is diagnosed once a dog is recognised not to have progressed from stage one to stage two after about 24 hours. Radiographs can be used to investigate if foetal-pelvic disproportion is the cause and to help in judging if normal birth will be possible. Return to top 6. The part of the canine genome responsible for brachycephaly has been identified and two genes have been implicated Bannasch et al .There are no genetic tests to help determine which dogs are least at risk of dystocia and therefore most suitable for use in breeding. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? All female English bulldogs are at risk of this condition. All puppies have the brachycephalic head shape and many bitches are unable to give birth naturally because of this and perhaps also because of pelvic abnormalities. Thus it is very difficult to find a puppy which has not been born via caesarean section. Ideally only puppies born by natural birth from a bitch that did not have dystocia, should be used for breeding. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem It might be argued that breeding from dogs that had been born naturally would help to select for a strain population able to give birth naturally in the future. However, any advantages that might bring would have to be 'weighed' carefully against the risks associated with allowing all births to progress naturally rather than undertaking elective caesarians to preclude the risk of dystocia. It might be possible to assess the size and shape of the pelvises of prospective mothers, as has been described for Boston and Scottish terriers by Eneroth et al .These authors found that bitches in which the pelvis was larger vertically than horizontally were less likely to suffer from dystocia. Breeding from such dogs, and from those with the greatest pelvic measurements, might be a reasonable approach and may be helpful in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this speculative proposal has not been validated and might be hard to undertake in practice. As yet no such scheme is in operation. Given the high proportion of animals that appear to suffer from foetal-pelvic disproportion in this breed, efforts to breed only from a minority judged to have the best chances of giving birth naturally might risk, through diminution of the size of the breeding population, inadvertent selection for other genetic diseases. Selecting for smaller head size in puppies is theoretically possible and, if successful, would probably help in reducing the incidence of dystocia. However, this might result also in unpredictable changes to other aspects of conformation or biology. Efforts directed at reducing the prevalence and severity of brachycephalic airway disease in the breed eg by out-crossing with dogs that are not affected with this disease would probably have an impact through reducing the severity of the brachycephaly itself. Return to top 9. Return to top .References Bennett D Normal and abnormal parturition.

This comes at no extra cost to you. Getting a golden retriever is a big commitment, so to help you make the right choice, we made this list of pros and cons for you. Yes, we do love golden retrievers here this is a golden retriever blog, after all , but golden retrievers are definitely not for everyone. Golden retrievers are great family dogs and are good with children Goldens love nothing more than being with their families. Golden retrievers have great personalities They are sweet, loving, gentle dogs that like to please people. Golden retrievers are smart According to Dr. This is based on their ability to learn new commands and perform commands they already know. They can learn over words and are about as smart as a 2 or 2. You can start training them as soon as you bring them home at eight weeks, and many good breeders start training their pups even a little bit before that. This is a great way to build your relationship with them, plus it helps stop bad habits from forming. Also, not only are they easy to train , but they love to train. They like to be challenged and like to be rewarded with praise and food. Their long, golden coats, sweet smile, and joyful tail make them one of the best-looking dogs. Goldens wear their emotions on their sleeves and you can seemingly always tell what a golden retriever is thinking by looking at their body language. Below is a list of some of the cons of owning them, but keep in mind that many of these things, like grooming and paying for vet visits and food, will be cons of owning any breed of dog. It just seems to be in the atmosphere in our home. They need regular grooming tasks done, such as cleaning their teeth, brushing their coats, clipping their nails, cleaning their ears, and taking a bath. Of course, you can do these tasks yourself, or bring them to a professional groomer to get them done. Golden retrievers have quite a few health issues Because of things like backyard breeding and inbreeding, golden retrievers seem to have a lot of health issues. I wish it was longer, but larger dogs typically do live shorter lives than smaller dogs. Click here to learn more about how to give your golden retriever a long, happy life. But the good news is that golden retrievers do make great alarm systems. Golden retrievers need a lot of exercise Goldens were bred as hunting dogs, which means they had to have a lot of energy to retrieve gunned down birds out in the field all day. Goldens need one to two hours of exercise per day. Most people recommend only getting a golden if you have a fenced in yard. If not, expect to make lots of trips to parks and fields where your golden can run around and get their energy out. Golden retrievers are mischievous Goldens love to play, and their smarts and energy levels can sometimes get them in trouble. Take the adorable Thieving Archie in the video below for example. Oliver also likes to be chased and play keep away, but not quite as much as Archie. You can literally see the wheels spinning as he tries to decide whether he wants to obey or try to force us to play his favorite game. They would much rather prefer to be with their families all the time. Golden Retriever Facts We just covered a lot of pros and cons, but this next section covers some facts that might be a pro or con, depending on your preferences. Golden retrievers are medium to large dogs Goldens are definitely not small dogs. They range from inches tall and pounds. And even then, many people say golden retrievers are puppies for life. I was tempted to put this in the cons side because they can be difficult as wild puppies, but their goofiness and playfulness is endearing. But they will bring more love and joy to you than you could ever imagine. Are you thinking about getting a golden retreiver? Let me know what you decide in the comments below! Related articles:. The 6 Pros of Owning a Golden Retriever 1. Golden Retrievers Have an Excellent Temperament Golden Retrievers are popular for their fun-loving, affectionate, and intelligent personalities. They Are Easy to Train They are enthusiastic about learning new things and have a great ability to pick up on new commands. Paired with loyalty and a high potential to learn, they are easy dogs to train. Make your training sessions fun and rewarding. Golden Retrievers love games, learn well through them, and are highly motivated by rewarding treats. Make it a regular part of the day so that they master their skills and get every family member involved, so their training is consistent. Goldies Make Great Family Dogs They are great with kids and have a natural ability to calm people and intuit their emotions, making them the perfect pet for a big family with kids. They are patient, caring, and gentle with kids and will love joining in on family adventures. Image Credit: wavebreakmedia, Shutterstock 4. Golden Retrievers Love to Play Living up to their name, Retrievers are great at playing fetch and love the time spent with their owner. While you can enjoy the fun-loving and active nature of your Golden Retriever outdoors, they are calm and obedient indoors. Golden Retrievers love playing water games. In fact, they have slightly webbed feet, which is a genetic trait that helps them swim through marshes and rivers. Paired with their athleticism, they are amazing and very keen swimmers. They are loving and empathetic and are commonly used as therapy dogs because of these qualities and their ability to soothe and calm people. Image Credit: Dmytro Zinkevych, Shutterstock 6. Even though they were originally bred as hunting dogs, that is no reason to be concerned, as their friendly and lovable nature will override any prey drive that they might have. The 4 Cons of Owning a Golden Retriever 1. Golden Retrievers Can Be Expensive It is no surprise that golden retriever puppies are in high demand, so with that usually comes a high price tag. There are several factors that will influence the price of a golden retriever, such as color, age, pedigree, certification, and breeder location. Over and above the purchase cost of your pup, you need to consider healthcare and insurance, feeding, training, and grooming costs. In some cases, you can expect an even bigger figure than this. Golden Retriever puppies also cost more than adult or senior dogs, but this is the case with most dog breeds. Image Credit: Jagdprinzessin, Pixabay 2. Goldies Are Prone to Health Issues It is common for purebred dogs to encounter some breed-related health problems , and the Golden Retriever has a few worth mentioning. Hypothyroidism: An endocrine disorder in dogs due to an underactive thyroid that can cause bodily functions to slow down. Cancer: Golden Retrievers are prone to cancer. Your Golden Retriever puppy food will need 1. A diet that nurtures bone and joint development is crucial for a growing pup of a large breed. As your pup grows, its diet should be transitioned over 7 days to avoid gastrointestinal upset. Image Credit: PorChonlawit, Shutterstock 4. A deshedding tool is ideal for catching dirt and debris from the undercoat and can be done every few weeks. Check their ears regularly for cleaning to prevent infection, and give their nails a trim when you hear them tapping on the ground. Every 4 to 6 weeks, your pooch will enjoy a bath. Be sure to use a pet-friendly shampoo and rinse thoroughly to avoid left over suds that can cause irritation. Final Thoughts It is clear that the pros far outweigh the cons when owning a Golden Retriever. Knowing what to expect will help you in deciding and give you a realistic idea of life with one of these amazing dogs. Be sure and confident in your ability to raise, train, and care for your new family member before making the commitment, and do thorough research on breeders and shelters to adopt and buy responsibly. They will bring your family many years of companionship , joy, and unconditional love, which are primary factors when deciding to take one on. A Golden Retriever is guaranteed to bring you these elements in abundance while keeping you busy and active. The pros and cons are subjective to what suits you as a family, but we believe that a Golden Retriever will be a great addition with all the positive qualities and endless love they have to offer. See Also:. These dogs are perfect for anybody who wishes to find a loving and caring four-legged friend. However, just as with any other dog breed, there are some downsides of Golden Retrievers to keep in mind. What are the pros and cons of owning a Golden Retriever? Pros: Golden Retrievers are loving; make great therapy and family dogs, are playful and love people. They are also intelligent and easy to train. Cons: Golden Retrievers are not great guard dogs, can be mischievous, do not like being left alone, and are prone to health issues that can shorten their life. Golden Retrievers are special dogs that are bound to make you fall in love at first sight. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! The Facts Golden retrievers are considered a medium-to-large breed. They can be between 21 and 24in cm tall, and can weigh between 55 and 74lbs kg depending on gender and age. Their temperament remains playful for longer than other breeds. They descend from a Tweed Water Spaniel mix. They are naturally sweet, calm, and loving. This characteristic makes them the perfect dog breed for a family or being trained to be a therapy dog. In the video below, you can find a quick overview of the must-know facts about Golden retrievers. Facts about Golden Retrievers. However, according to the studies conducted by neuropsychologist Stanley Coren, Ph. They can learn up to words, and their intelligence can be compared to that of a 2-year-old child. Their training should start when they are eight weeks old and should continue throughout their life. If you are buying a Golden Retriever puppy, you can start the training Brain Training For Dogs as soon as your furry friend comes home. However, breeders tend to begin their socialization training when they are still with their mom. Golden Retrievers are naturally caring and protective, making them an ideal family dog. However, it is essential to keep in mind that Golden Retrievers are a larger dog, and their playfulness might have some downsides: it is easy for them to knock over or hurt a child accidentally. With supervision and proper training, Golden Retrievers make perfect dogs for your little ones. They Have Loving Personalities Golden Retrievers are goofy and playful, but they are also kind, loving, and incredibly caring. Whether you wish to introduce them in a household with children or to accompany older adults, Golden Retrievers are not short of affection! They Are Excellent Therapy Dogs If you have ever looked into canines who become therapy dogs or guide dogs, Golden Retrievers are always at the top of the list. These dogs make great pets to hug, cuddle and give comfort aka comfort retriever. They are excellent companions for kids and adults who are ssufferingfrom stress or anxiety regardless of the reason. Even if your Golden Retriever is not on the path to becoming a therapy dog, you can still enjoy all the love your puppy has to give! Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! They must receive the correct supervision when meeting others, but you are not likely to experience many socialization problems with Golden Retrievers. Golden Retrievers Are Prone to Health Issues Golden Retrievers are a beautiful breed, but they are undeniably more prone than others to deal with certain chronic conditions. Among the most common health issues that you will find affecting the Golden Retriever breed are hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain eye conditions. Golden Retrievers Can Be Expensive Golden Retrievers are a pure breed, and they are among the most expensive ones out there. If you want to be assured of a purebred Golden Retriever, you must find a respectable breeder. Costs where I break down the costs of owning a Golden. A key personality trait of a guard dog is some level of aggressiveness. Golden Retrievers, in most cases, are lacking this trait entirely and would be more likely to lick an intruder than to chase them off. They need to live indoors with their people. Golden Retrievers Shed Frequently Golden Retrievers are not one of the pure breeds with the longest hair, but they shed much more than fellow medium-length fur dogs. Without this amount of activity, Golden Retrievers can quickly become overweight and frustrated. And, since they are highly energetic dogs, this can turn into destructive behavior. While this makes them one of the best breeds for families and kids, there is a downside to this personality trait; it is not uncommon for Golden Retrievers to suffer from loneliness and seperation anxiety- even when you are just at work! Studies have found that the larger breed of bigger dogs can affect their life expectancy. Additionally, Golden Retrievers are more prone to several health issues that can be life-threatening in most cases. Conclusion The upside is that Golden Retrievers are great dogs for families with children. They love socialization with other animals and humans, and are incredibly loving and caring. Their personality makes them the best choice for therapy dogs and one of the most loved breeds in households around the world. The downside is that while Golden Retrievers are highly intelligent and trainable, they also need a lot of exercise, attention from their owner, and they shed a great amount. They are also prone to several threatening health conditions, high maintenance , and costly. Golden Retriever health issues Golden Retriever pros and cons Owning a Golden Retriever has advantages and disadvantages. Pros of owning a Golden include the dog's friendly and affectionate temperament. The sociable and playful temperament of the Golden Retriever makes this breed one of the most popular family dogs. Golden Retrievers make good family pets for older people and for families with children. Goldens are eager to please the owner and highly trainable. This easygoing breed is fit for first time dog owners, which is another con. Disadvantages of owning a Golden Retriever include the abundant shedding. Golden Retriever owners need to brush the dog often. Investing in a good vacuum cleaner is also a good idea as there may be plenty of dog's hair around the home where a Golden lives. Goldens have plenty of energy and need to get sufficient exercise every day. Goldens enjoy long walks and owners need to be energetic enough to take the dog out for several good walks every day. This is not an apartment dog. Goldens need enough space and a country home with a large yard is ideal. Goldens are companion dogs that need to spend most of the day with the owners. One of the cons of owning a Golden Retriever is that this breed is not fit to be a guard dog. Goldens are so friendly by nature that counting on a Golden to protect your home is setting unrealistic expectations. The Golden Retriever breed originated in the early 19th century in the Scottish Highlands. It was created by a gentleman named Dudley Marjoribanks, 1st Baron Tweedmouth Lord Tweedmouth to you , a Scottish businessman and politician who bred dogs as a hobby. The breed was developed from crossing bloodhounds, setters and the existing retrievers to create a breed of hunting dog that could retrieve a large number of game birds from land and water. Golden Retriever weight Golden Retriever male weight: 29 to 34 kg 65 to 75 lb Golden Retriever female weight: 25 to 29 kg 55 to 65 lb Golden Retriever size Golden Retriever male height: 56 to 61 cm 22 to 24 in Golden Retriever female height: 51 to 56 cm 20 to 22 in Golden Retriever coat: thick, long double coat Golden Retriever colors: Light Golden, Golden, or Dark Golden How many puppies do Goldens have on average? Golden Retriever litter size: 4 to 8 puppies How long do Golden Retrievers live? Golden Retriever personality According to the breed standard, the Golden Retriever personality is friendly, reliable and trustworthy. The highly intelligent Golden Retriever with a friendly temperament is among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Originally developed to help hunters find ducks in the water, Golden Retrievers have soft mouths so they don't damage and chew up the birds during retrieving. The Canadian Golden Retrievers are the tallest of the three types males can reach 24" in height which is about 61 centimeters and females can reach .American types tend to be lankier and less muscular than other types. British type Golden Retrievers have broader skull and the forequarters are more muscular than in other types. Golden Retrievers are a versatile breed that can live in an apartment or in a large house. The large dog needs about two hours of exercise every day to stay healthy both mentally and physically. Golden Retriever's friendly personality makes him a perfect family dog. Are Golden Retrievers good with kids? Golden retrievers are playful, energetic and affectionate dogs and are very suitable for families with kids. Golden Retrievers love to play fetch with a ball or frisbee. The dog easily adopts to different environments and to different people. This breed can be a good hunting dog and a good show dog. The Golden Retriever breed is well suited for those who have little or no experience in dog ownership. Easily trainable Golden Retrievers excel in obedience. The Golden Retriever is not fit to be a guard dog. The dog may bark when a stranger approaches his territory but in general Golden Retrievers will not attack as the breed is known for its friendliness. Golden Retrievers are easily trainable and used by search and rescue teams, as Seeing Eye dog for the blind and as a hearing dog for the hearing-impaired people. Socialize your Golden Retriever early on. Take the Golden puppy to different environments and be sure to keep the dog comfortable at all times. Let the puppy meet people of different ages - from young kids to seniors. Letting the puppy befriend other family pets is also important. Keep new experiences short and always positive. Never let anyone play rough with your puppy. A well socialized puppy will grow into a confident adult Golden Retriever who can be comfortable in different environments and has a positive and friendly personality that makes this breed so irresistible to dog enthusiasts. See video below for more information about this Golden Retriever - the large family friendly dog breed. Thick, long and wavy coat with a good undercoat of the Golden Retriever protects this breed in the coldest water. The coat needs daily brushing to avoid tangles. Regular brushing helps to manage the shedding. Many dog breeds shed all year long, but most breeds, including Golden Retrievers, experience heavier periods of shedding in the spring and fall. Golden Retrievers have a double coat - a long, silky outer coat and a downy, insulating undercoat. In the spring, much of this undercoat sheds out and can get caught in the outer coat, forming mats, particularly around ears, tail and "underarm", where the front legs meet the chest. In the fall, the undercoat grows in more thickly again. During both these periods Goldens need extra grooming with a natural bristle brush and an undercoat rake to prevent mats and keep their coats looking clean, bright and shiny. Video demonstration of using a Furminator brush on a Golden Retriever. Using a Furminator deshedding tool helps to keep Golden Retrievers's shedding to a minimum. Golden Retriever supplies When you are getting ready to bring a Golden Retriever home, getting the needed supplies ahead of time is important. Here are the essential puppy supplies every new Golden Retriever owner should have on hand. Food and Water Bowls Weighted metal bowls or heavy ceramic bowls are the best. These won't tip as easily and won't tempt your dog to chew like plastic bowls might. These are also not likely to collect bacteria as they are easier to clean. Slow feeders for large breeds are great for Labradors. Slow feeders prevent the dog from eating too fast, thus swallowing air along with their food. Crate for a Golden Retriever Crates are very helpful and your dog will find a "den-like" environment comfortable for sleeping and relaxing in. Another important function of a crate is that dog crates can be used for housetraining. Crate-train your puppy right away and he will come to love and cherish his "den". Wire and plastic are both acceptable options, but dogs generally prefer an enclosed den that is only exposed on one side. If confined to a small space but exposed on all sides, dogs can get anxious. If you choose a wire crate, cover the top, sides and back with a blanket or, when outside, with a waterproof cover. This keeps the sun off and gives your dog a safe and secure feeling. Dog leash and collar for a Golden Retriever Every dog needs to learn how to walk on a leash. A light nylon collar and 6-foot leash are appropriate for puppies, but adults can use them too. Nylon leashes and collars are washable, and you can buy reflective kinds, which are better for walking dogs at night. Leather leashes are easier to grip, less likely to chafe your skin if your dog is pulling on the leash, and develop a lovely patina as they age. Retractable leashes are good options when walking in areas where you want to allow your dog to explore off the path, but they aren't a good idea if you are trying to teach your dog to heel and not to pull on the leash. If this isn't a problem, a retractable leash works fine. Just be sure you are still able to keep control of your dog if necessary. Identification Tag ID tag should be on the dog's collar so that whoever finds the dog can return the dog back to you in case your dog gets lost. Dog toys for Golden Retrievers Every puppy needs to play, learn interact and chew on something. Golden Retrievers will quickly learn which toys are theirs if you give them their own toy box - a simple box or laundry basket will do. Keep it full of interesting toys and rotate the toys from time to time so that the dog can find something interesting in that box. You can also teach your dog to recognize each toy by the name. You will need to give your dog one new toy at a time and let the dog play with that toy for a few days, making sure to repeat the word that you want to use to name the toy. This helps your dog to associate each toy with its name and soon he will learn names of all his toys and can bring you one when you request a specific toy by the name. Great way to help your puppy develop his intelligence! Goldens typically enjoy balls, Nylabone Frisbees, and anything appropriate for chewing. Try stuffable toys you can fill with treats, especially those that make your Golden work to get the treat out to keep him busy for hours. Dog shampoo and conditioner Choose a basic dog shampoo, or one specially formulated for medium-length coats. If your dog has sensitive skin, choose a shampoo designed to soothe the skin. Dog conditioners help to keep the coat smooth, shiny, and tangle free. Dog nail clippers Choose clippers designed for large dogs, never use nail clippers made for people on your dog. Some clippers come with a file or an electric smoother built into the clippers, to smooth out the rough nail surface after clipping. You can also use a nail grinder. Keep the dog's ears clean to prevent ear infections. Small blunt-tipped trimming scissors Golden Retrievers tend to grow long hair between and around their paw pads. This can get tangled and in the winter, can collect balls of ice or irritating de-icing salt. Keep your dog's paws trimmed, clipping out hair from between paw pads and around the feet. Brush your dog's teeth every day to prevent dental issues. Golden Retriever training Goldens take to training quickly and with enthusiasm, so housetraining and basic commands come easily to Golden Retrievers. It is up to the owner to invest the time and energy into training their dog so that the dog can earn that title of the "perfect family dog". Because Goldens are quick to learn and are sensitive, they don't need harsh training methods. They only need consistency, a fun approach to training, and lots of positive reinforcement for a job well done. Untrained and unsocialized Golden Retrievers who aren't taught good manners and not exposed to other people and dogs early in life can be pushy, nippy, aggressive, hyperactive, and destructive. Regular training and lots of positive, safe life experience is the way to bring out the very best in your Golden Retriever, so that his true nature and personality can shine. Golden Retriever puppies often display signs of oral fixation and the puppy will chew on things to relieve the oral fixation. To help your puppy be sure to provide the dog with appropriate dog toy that they can carry in the mouth and make sure the toy is safe for chewing and doesn't have small parts that the dog can accidentally swallow. A good toy would be a hard rubber ball to play with. Train your dog to retrieve objects to help the dog satisfy its natural desire to retrieve. This highly intelligent breed responds well to both basic and advanced training. House training should start the minute you bring the puppy home. Select a spot where you prefer to use as your dog's toilet and bring your puppy in that area immediately after each feeding and twenty minutes after feeding. These are the times when most dogs tend to need to relieve themselves. Very young puppies under 4 months of age may need to pee every hour or so. Take your Golden Retriever outside after a nap, first thing in the morning, before going to bed at night and also before leaving the dog alone. To prevent forming a habit of your dog eliminating itself in the house, watch the dog's behavior closely and whenever you notice that the dog is pacing, circling, sniffing and leaving the room - take this behavior as a signal to take the Golden Retriever outside so that the dog can relieve itself in the designated area. Praise your Golden Retriever or reward it with a treat as soon as the dog is finished relieving itself in the designated area. Always bring the dog to the same area designated as the dog's toilet so that the familiar environment will encourage your Golden Retriever to relieve itself. Never punish your dog or scream at the Golden Retriever if the dog doesn't do something right. Stay calm if you catch your puppy in the middle of an accident. Clap sharply in order to startle the dog. This will usually cause the puppy to stop. Then quickly run with the dog outside, encouraging the puppy to follow you. If your Golden Retriever finishes peeing or pooping outside, give a reward. If she has nothing left, don't worry about it. Screaming and punishing can only scare your puppy and make it more difficult for the puppy to learn. Instead be sure to reward the good behavior immediately so that the dog associates the reward with his behavior. Ignore the bad behavior. Staying consistent is the key to success. When it comes to intelligence, the Golden Retriever earned a spot in the top five most intelligent dog breeds. The eager to please the owner Golden Retriever is among the easiest dog breeds to train. Use motivators such as food, praise or play and you will be amazed at how smart the Golden Retriever is. Intelligence is determined not only by genetics. Environment plays a huge role in developing an intelligent dog. As an owner you have the ability to help your Golden Retriever puppy to develop its intellect. Teach your dog names of various objects as the dog is capable to remember hundreds of words. Develop his mental power by naming each of his toys. When you get a new toy for the dog, be sure to name the toy as you are playing with the dog using the toy. Let the dog play with the same toy a few days and keep naming the toy until your Golden Retriever knows the toy by the name and can bring it to you when you ask to bring that specific toy. You can also teach the dog names of other objects. Keep increasing the dog's vocabulary as that helps to create new associations. This is one of the ways to develop your dog's intelligence. Raising Golden Retriever Puppies Pet ownership is a commitment. A good Golden Retriever owner is prepared to put time, money, and energy into proper veterinary care, training, quality food, supplies, and invest quality time into building the relationship between human and dog. The reason why there are so many Golden Retrievers abandoned to animal shelters and rescue groups is because many people aren't suited for this breed of dog. Puppies require housetraining. They chew things you don't want them to chew. They require shots, worming, and checkups that can be expensive. They need obedience training and socialization too. Adolescent dogs aren't easier. Big and full of energy Goldens can easily get into trouble especially between 8 months of age to approximately 18 months until the dog will start maturing into an adult. In old age, Goldens may suffer from many diseases associated with aging, from arthritis and hip dysplasia to eye diseases, cancer, heart problems, and many other conditions. Senior Goldens need more frequent check-ups, tests and veterinary care than Goldens in their prime, and the committed owner will provide this care, along with sensitivity towards an aging Golden's changing needs. If you are ready to become a responsible and committed Golden Retriever owner, ask yourself the following questions: Having a fenced yard helps, but am I ready to spend about two hours every day walking and playing with my Golden Retriever? Am I active enough to keep up with this breed? Do I love to vacuum? Golden Retrievers shed all year, picking up the pace of shedding in the spring and the fall. That means a lot of vacuuming, and tolerance for the occasional stray Golden hair on your pillow, rug and even in your morning coffee. Is my home ready for a Golden Retriever? Is my furniture ready to be occupied by a big yellow dog? Your Golden Retriever will bargain with you for comfort privileges. Am I sure I want a dog around all the time? Golden Retrievers want to be a part of everything that you do. Best dog food for Golden Retriever is made of high quality ingredients and it should also be age-appropriate because dogs of different ages have different nutritional needs. Remove the food between feedings. Regular feedings make it easier to house train your Golden Retriever as your dog will have regular times when it needs to eliminate. A young puppy needs four or five small meals a day. By six months, it will need only two meals a day. How much to feed a Golden Retriever Golden Retriever puppies up to 6 months of age need to be fed 3 times per day. Feed the puppy the low end of recommended amount of food, or as much as the puppy will eat in ten minutes. Best dog food is a puppy food for large breeds specifically formulated to moderate growth, or a premium adult food. Golden Retriever adolescents between 6 months and 1 year old need to eat 2 or 3 times a day. Feed the adolescent Golden Retriever the low end of the recommended amount of food, or slightly more if you can see his ribs. Or, as much as the adolescent will eat in ten minutes. Best dog food for adolescent Golden is premium adult food. Active Adult Golden Retriever between 1 to 7 years old need to eat 2 or 3 times a day. Feed the adult Golden Retriever the low end to middle the amount of food, or slightly more on days of high activity. Or, as much as the dog will eat in ten minutes. Feed the dog premium adult food for active dogs or regular premium adult dog food. Sedentary Adult Golden Retriever between 1 to 7 years old need to eat 2 times a day. Feed the adult Golden Retriever the low end the amount of food, or slightly less if a dog is losing a noticeable waistline when viewed from above. Feed the dog premium adult dog food. Senior Golden Retriever are dogs that are approximately 7 years old and older need to eat 2 times a day. Feed the senior Golden Retriever the low end the amount of food, or slightly less if a dog is losing a noticeable waistline when viewed from above or reducing activity level. Feed the dog premium adult dog food or premium food designed for senior dogs. Golden Retriever grooming and care To prevent ear infections be sure to clean your Golden Retriever's ears regularly. Floppy ears of Golden Retriever are prone to ear infections when moisture gets trapped inside, creating a breeding ground for bacteria. If you notice your dog scratching his ears a lot, give your vet a call. The best way to prevent infection from occurring in the first place, is to keep your dog's ears clean and dry. Bathe your Golden Retriever once every couple of months. Some Golden Retrievers might not like standing in the bathtub, so get your Golden puppy accustomed to regular baths at a young age, when your Golden is physically easier to control. Brushing your Golden retriever before bathing will help to remove tangles that tend to get tighter in the water. Use positive reinforcement by providing your dog with some treats as you are bathing him. Nail trimming is important because long nails can easily scratch people and can also damage the dog's feet by causing foot pads to splay. Nails should be short, neat and smooth, and the best way to accomplish this is to trim your Golden's nails a little bit every week, rather than a lot every couple of months. Inside every dog's nail is a little vein called the quick. The longer the nail grows, the further down the nail the quick grows. When you clip your Golden's nails, you have to be careful not to clip the quick. It also causes bleeding which can be difficult to stop. To be safe, have a stryptic pencil or powder to stop bleeding. The bleeding will stop eventually, but in the meantime you are risking getting blood all over the house. Start nail trimming right away so your Golden gets used to it. Puppies may not like it, but they will get used to it if you do it regularly. Make the process rewarding to your puppy. At first, just do one nail each day, trimming daily instead of weekly. This will get your Golden puppy used to the routine. Work up to one paw each day. Take it slowly, and offer lots of praise, rewards and fun play session afterwards. Dental care could save your dog's life. A senior Golden Retriever with teeth covered in plaque can be at a greater risk for early death and heart disease. Dental plaque can lead to bacterial infections of the heart, so keeping your Golden's teeth clean from the start is important. Daily brushing can prevent the need for professional teeth cleaning later in life, and expensive procedure that requires anesthesia. Nylabone chew toys also can help keep the teeth free of plaque. Always use a toothpaste made for dogs. Toothpastes made for humans can be dangerous for your dog's health. Golden Retriever health issues Common health problems in the Golden Retriever Breed include hip dysplasia, heart problems, eye disorders and cancer. Take your Golden Retriever to the veterinarian once a year for a checkup. Compare Golden Retriever to other large dog breeds. Conclusion Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds in the United States. They're known for their beauty, intelligence, and friendly disposition. If you are considering owning a Golden Retriever, then you should know that there are both pros and cons to this breed. The following blog post will discuss the good, the bad, and the ugly of owning one of these dogs. We hope that after reading this article you can make an informed decision about whether or not a Golden Retriever is right for your family! They have a thick coat of fur that can be any color from light gold to dark red. They often have a white blaze on their chest, and their eyes are typically a light brown or green. They Are Intelligent Golden retrievers are known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds. They are quick to learn new commands, and they are often used as service dogs because of their intelligence and gentle nature. They Are Friendly and Affectionate Golden retrievers love people, and they are always happy to see their owners. They will greet you with a wagging tail and plenty of kisses, and they will never hesitate to show you how much they love you. Dogs are more than just pets, they can be your friend and what better friend to have than a friendly and affectionate dog like the Golden Retriever. They are gentle and playful, which makes them the perfect pet to have if you have children in the house. They will play by their rules and never get too rough, which makes them perfect for small children. They have medium sized bodies and short fur which means you don't have to spend a lot of time grooming them. All you need to do is brush their fur once or twice a week and make sure they get plenty of exercise on the weekends, and your Golden will be happy as can be! With little effort you may be able to train your golden retriever without the help of professional. They Don't Bark a Lot Golden Retrievers are not known for being barkers, which is great if you live in an apartment or close to your neighbors. They will bark when they see someone or something new, but they typically won't bark for no reason like many other dog breeds. They Are Adaptable To Different Locations Golden retrievers are one of the most adaptable dog breeds, and they can do well in different locations. It's always best to research where you will be moving before getting your golden retriever just in case there aren't many areas to walk them or areas that will allow dogs. They Are Always Eager To Please Their Owners Most dog breeds are eager to please their owners, but Golden retrievers go over and above by always being willing to learn new tricks. They will never turn down a command because they just want to do what you say! It's not uncommon for people who own golden retrievers to teach them how to open doors or fetch items when needed. They Are Very Obedient Most dogs are obedient when trained properly, but Golden retrievers take it to the next level. A lot of dog owners consider their golden retrievers family members because they're so good at obeying every command and they are never annoying towards the family members or guests. They will always be up for a game of fetch or tug-of-war, and they will never get tired of playing. They are always happy and full of life, which is why they make such great pets. They may nip at your heels when they're playing or get a little too excited, but they will never intentionally hurt you. It's always best to be cautious around any dog breed, but Golden Retrievers are one of the most trustworthy dog breeds out there. They are very friendly and docile towards strangers so there is no reason for them to bark or protect your home if someone comes knocking. They are prone to health issues Any type of dog breed is prone to health issues, but Golden Retriever owners need to be aware that their dogs are more likely than others to get cancer or hip dysplasia. This is why the dog owners have to focus on keeping their golden retrievers healthy by taking them for a walk every day and playing with them daily so they stay healthy and active. They Shed a Lot of Fur If you don't like having a lot of dog hair on your clothes or furniture, then this is the wrong breed for you. Golden Retrievers shed fur year round and they have no way to control it because their coats are constantly growing in new hair. This can be very annoying if you're not used to cleaning up after dogs with long fur. It's not uncommon for them to disobey commands or show aggressive signs towards other dogs because they don't want to do what you say. They will also refuse to eat dog food when you buy it so make sure that you hide the food bowls if you don't want them to get spoiled. They Are Easily Bored If you don't train your golden retriever or give them a lot of attention, then they are going to get into trouble. They will constantly look for ways to entertain themselves by chewing on the furniture if they have nothing else better to do, which is why it's important that you take them out every day and let them run around in the yard. This will also keep them from getting too tired, which can lead to a lot of health issues down the road. Golden Retrievers Are Prone To Weight Gain It's not uncommon for golden retriever owners to notice that their dogs are putting on a lot of weight, especially if they don't exercise them or give them the right amount of food. It is good practice to feed your dog in moderation and take him out every day so he can build up some muscle. This will help keep his joints strong and healthy as well. This could help avoid obesity in golden retrievers. Golden Retrievers are prone to slobbering all over themselves when they eat or drink water which can be very annoying if you don't like cleaning up after your pets. Make sure that you keep them away from furniture or any other expensive things that you don't want to get ruined. They Can Be Very Smelly Along with the drooling, Golden Retrievers can also be smelly dogs because they tend to not bath as often as they should. This is why it's important that you give them a bath at least once a month and make sure that you dry their fur completely so they don't start smelling bad. They Can Chew and Damage Your Household Items Golden retrievers love to chew on things and they can easily damage your household items if you're not careful. Make sure that you keep all of your belongings out of their reach and put away any valuable items that you don't want them to get a hold of. This includes cords, shoes, and clothing. This can be a pain if you're looking for your car keys or remote control because there's a good chance that your dog has hidden it somewhere in the house. Be sure to keep an eye on him at all times so he doesn't get a chance to steal anything else. Even when you find them, the items would be covered with dog saliva. They Need a Lot of Attention Golden Retrievers are not the kind of dogs that you can leave for extended periods of time because they need a lot of attention and affection. If you have to go out, be sure to take them with you or better yet just don't leave without taking them in the first place. This way your dog will never feel abandoned and he will always be happy to see you when you come home. They Are Heavy Dogs Adult golden retriever can weight up to 75 pounds or more which when combined with their enthusiasm can be problematic for the owners. Imagine coming home after a long day's work and your 75 pound golden retriever runs towards you in enthusiasm and love. Now you know they are doing it to show love and affection but they might end up injuring you. Conclusion Golden Retrievers are great dogs but they also have their fair share of problems. As long as you're aware of these things and know how to deal with them, then owning a golden retriever can be a very rewarding experience. So, are Golden Retrievers the perfect dog breed for you? It really depends on your lifestyle and what you're looking for in a pet. If you're willing to put in the extra work to keep them healthy and happy, then they definitely make great pets! But, if you're looking for something a little more low maintenance, then this is not the right dog breed for you. It's always best to know both Pros and Cons of any dog breed before getting one because it will save you from running into serious issues down the road! More Dog's World. Avoiding stress Golden Retrievers Are Good Looking Golden Retrievers were bred as working dogs for temperament and purpose rather than appearance. Nonetheless, they are stunning-looking medium-sized dogs with gorgeous long silky golden coats and sweet smiles. They are typically light cream or light gold, gold, or red, with varying shades of gold within each color. Different regions have their own breed standard, and you can learn about the various types here, Golden Retriever Types: 3 Breed Variations. Or if you want to specifically compare the UK and the American types, head over here, English vs. That also implies your dog will keep up with you quite well during a hike or outdoor play with your kids. Golden Retrievers also make good company during summer vacations at the beach. Since they were bred to retrieve water birds for hunters, Golden Retrievers are natural swimmers, and their webbed feet make it easier for the dog to propel through the water. Their skill in water will create a lively fetch game in the water as you and your family enjoy your summer escapade by the beach. As you will see, these disadvantages can be offset with context and caution. So read this section carefully. Golden Retrievers Are Food-Motivated Food takes the most significant part of the cost of owning a Retriever, or any dog for that matter. You might then want to rethink your decision. They seem to be hungry all the time due to genetics and environmental causes. However, the exact cause is currently unknown and research is ongoing. During positive reinforcement training, use other rewards such as toys, fun games, and praise. Do you want to know what the best diet for Goldens is? Golden Retrievers Are Heavy Shedders Golden Retriever grooming is one of the roles you bargain for when bringing home a puppy. All dogs have a bit of a doggy smell because their skin produces natural oils that tend to smell with time, and their ear glands can give off a yeasty odor. Some dogs also have a strong smell due to medical conditions like skin and dental infections. When it comes to Golden Retrievers, their doggy smell is mainly due to their double, water-repellent coat that tends to retain odor in both the outer and the finer inner hairs. If your dog is a water magnet, its coat can hold dirt and bacteria, making the smell worse. These include: Hip dysplasia — Hip dysplasia is a hereditary condition that starts when the dog grows, resulting in a loose-fitting hip joint which leads to osteoarthritis or degenerative joint disease. Elbow dysplasia — An abnormal development of the elbow joint in fast-growing dogs, usually larger breeds. Elbow dysplasia in Golden Retrievers also leads to chronic arthritis of the joint. Progressive retinal atrophy — An eye disease that causes the retina to degenerate slowly, leading to eventual blindness. However, scientists have identified the mutated genes so screening is advised. Fibrous tissue obstructs the aortic valve leading to fainting, a reduced lifespan, or sudden death. Cancer — The breed is known to be at a higher risk of cancer than other breeds. The ongoing Golden Retriever Lifetime Study attempts to identify the main dietary, genetic, and environmental risk factors for cancer in dogs. To help your dog stay healthy and happy, the Golden Retriever Club of America recommends the following health screening , especially when breeding Retrievers: Hip dysplasia. Wet chewers Remain young at heart Keep in mind that our dogs are not perfect, similar to humans. But that is not necessarily a bad thing. The Good Trust me; the Golden Retriever is a fantastic dog. If they were not, they would not have ranked as the third most popular dog in North America for over a decade. And, I suspect in the coming years that ranking will increase. Maybe not enough to unseat their cousin, the Labrador Retriever, but the German Shepherd better watch out. This majestic dog of Scottish heritage sports a long, lustrous golden mane, along with a strong, athletic body and straight muzzle. Like most puppies, Golden Retrievers are adorable. Good Natured Golden Retrievers are the epitome of joy. This easy-going breed has a vitality and zest for life that we could learn from and incorporate more into our lives. Their sweet love of life is evident in everything they do. Bailey just loving life. Rolling around and being goofy. Always present in the moment, rest assured the Golden Retriever is enjoying life to the utmost. Leery of conflict, the Golden is happiest when giving and receiving love. Not a dog to hold grudges or dwell on the past, the Golden Retriever truly exemplifies compassion and living life to the fullest. The world would indeed be a better place if we all were more like the Golden Retriever. Affectionate and Friendly The hallmark of the Golden Retriever is its friendly and kind temperament. A gentle dog with a soft mouth, the Golden is typically not a one-person dog. Instead, the Golden Retriever wants to share its unconditional love with as many people and animals as it can. Hostility or aggression is not characteristic of the Golden Retriever. The Golden Retriever is best described as friendly, affectionate, trustworthy, tolerant, and kind. These kindly traits are highly valued in therapy and assistance dogs and make Golden Retrievers especially well-suited to families. Intelligent and Obedient Golden Retrievers are very smart dogs. How smart? Canine researcher Stanely Cohen ranks dog breeds into intelligence tiers depending on their ability to learn commands and obedience. Golden Retrievers fall within the top tier of all dog breeds and rank fourth, behind the Border Collie, Poodle, and German Shepherd. If you are curious about how the Golden Retriever and German Shepherd stack up against each other, you might want to check out this article: Golden Retriever or German Shepherd: Which is the Better Dog? The majestic Golden also does well with canine sports such as rally, scent work, obedience, and other activities that the most intelligent dogs excel in. In fact, they are such smart dogs combined with their friendly temperament that they make wonderful tracking and search and rescue dogs. Eager to Please Golden Retrievers are among the breeds most eager to please their owners. Not all dog breeds possess this trait. Some are highly independent or stubborn and are content doing their own thing. Easy to Train Eager to please their owners, plus the ability to learn quickly and with a high level of obedience, is the definition of easy to train, and that is the Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers do best with positive, reward-based training. However, the breed is also very food motivated, making training more straightforward, as food is a high-value reward to the Golden Retriever. The loving and sensitive nature of the Golden Retriever does best in a training environment that is rewarding and positive. Hold up. Are you looking for a good online training program for your Golden Retriever? I recently wrote an article comparing some of the most popular online dog training systems. Active and Sporty People often see a calm, well-behaved adult Golden Retriever and mistakenly assume that the dog was born with this chill nature. You would be wrong. That calm, well-behaved demeanor is a byproduct of their high intelligence and high trainability. But, Golden Retrievers, especially as puppies , are highly active and energetic dogs. Their dynamic energy and high intelligence mean they need regular exercise and mental stimulation. A physically and mentally under-stimulated Golden will become bored quickly and direct that energy into undesirable behaviors. Especially as puppies, Golden Retrievers can be highly energetic and border on crazy if not exercised and stimulated proficiently. Be prepared that Golden Retrievers have a very long and active puppyhood. Therefore, training will need to start early and be ongoing to ensure a well-behaved, calm dog into adulthood like the ones you see on TV. Or find alternatives such as dog sitters, daycares, or dog walkers to help out. Good With Kids and Pets The Golden Retriever is valued for its ability to get along with children , and other pets, including cats and livestock. A lot of dog breeds would not tolerate this. Not Incessest Barkers Another great trait of the Golden Retriever is they typically bark for a reason. Meaning that they usually bark because there is something to bark at. For example, a Golden may hear kids playing outside, a noise, or other dogs barking or expressing joy during play. Because the Golden Retriever is so intelligent and easy to train, an owner can control barking with consistent training. Highly Adaptable Very few dog breeds are as highly adaptable as the Golden Retriever, which should not be surprising. The dog loves life, has a gentle and kind nature, is affectionate, top-tier intelligent and obedient, easy to train, and highly active. In addition, the breed gets along well with everyone — other dogs, cats, children, women, and men. On the medium to larger side, the Golden Retriever is not a giant-sized breed; rather, a typical Golden ranges from about pounds, with females falling on the smaller side of the scale. However, they can grow up to pounds, like our dog Bailey. However, most tend to be smaller. Their size makes them great for the home and well-suited for indoor and outdoor activities. In addition, their size makes them adaptable to farms, acreages, homes with backyards, and even apartments and condos. Their easy-going, playful nature means they do well with families and active households. Do you or your family like to run, swim, hike, or bike and want a companion for these activities? Then, the Golden is a perfect choice. Yup, the Golden Retriever pretty much checks all the boxes. Soft Mouths All puppies play bite. Bite inhibition is an essential part of training in puppyhood. Maybe the most crucial part of training. For example, Golden Retrievers have very soft mouths. This instinctual trait translates into more gentle play with kids, and other pets once bite inhibition is taught. Puppy biting should be addressed early on for all dog breeds, including the Golden Retriever. To learn why addressing puppy biting is essential and how to do it, take a few minutes to check out this article: Golden Retriever Puppy Biting: When it Stops, What To Do. Remain Young at Heart Most dogs are considered puppies until about 18 months to 2 years old. However, Golden Retrievers often take their puppyhood well past two years, and some well into adulthood. How can it be? Ever met one of those charismatic older people with a joy and zest for life more reminiscent of someone much younger? They seem to have a childlike joy for life, even in later years, and live in the moment. That is the same with the Golden Retriever. Golden Retrievers maintain a joy for life and desire to play throughout most of their lives. Goofy and joyous, this dog breed can bring a smile to your face even when they are older. The Bad There are some issues with Golden Retriever that some may classify as undesirable. Some can range from mere annoyances to downright negative. Which of these traits, if any, is ultimately determined by your lifestyle, personality, and your preference. Or better yet, accept that these traits are just the cost of having a fantastic companion in the home. Health Issues If one issue stands out about the Golden Retriever as truly bad, health issues are the biggest. Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can be prone to severe and costly health issues. In researching on the internet, you will find that the Golden Retriever consistently ranks in the top tier of dogs with health issues ranging from mild to severe. There are very few things in life that are as heartbreaking as watching a loved one suffer and make no mistake, our Golden Retrievers quickly become our children and valued members of the family. Sure, it could be if you want a companion that fits the role of a protection dog for your family and home. If that is the case, I might suggest choosing a dog better suited to that role, like the German Shepherd. However, Golden Retrievers, as a whole, do not make good guard or protection dogs. It is more likely a Golden Retriever will greet or run from an intruder than attack. The Golden Retriever is known for its friendly and kind nature, and most do not possess the courageous and natural guardian instincts of other breeds. Activities that require a temperament more aligned to one of a gentle companion. Those who choose a Golden Retriever are not looking for a protection dog. Instead, these folks are looking for the quintessential family dog — a dog that is social, friendly, gentle, tolerant, and good with children. The stubbornness seems to be most concentrated mainly during the ages of 6 — 18 months or their rebellious teens. Like a human teenager, the Golden Retriever may become stubborn during this time and not listen to you. Your Golden will also test boundaries and your patience during this stage. Hormones play a big part during this time, and you may find increased humping from males and less tolerance with some dogs. Behaviors can run the spectrum from laziness to being downright rowdy. All of this is normal. Patience and continued training are essential. After 18 months, your Golden will be on the cusp of adulthood and will become calmer and much more manageable. However, expect the odd stubborn or defiant interaction from time to time, even in early adulthood. Still, overall your Golden will listen much better around two years of age. Bailey is in his stubborn phase at just over six months old. He was just too comfortable. Can Forget Their Size Golden Retrievers love people, and few dogs greet their families as enthusiastically as the friendly Golden. Golden Retrievers can even share their joyous greetings with perfect strangers, much to the dismay of many people. Unfortunately, small children, pets, and older people might not be well-equipped to handle this exuberance. In turn, some adults — especially the elderly — may take exception to being jumped on by a larger dog. Training is the key, and so is requesting the help of all visitors. Fortunately, Golden Retrievers are so easy to train and obedient that this behavior can easily be managed. Prone To Weight Gain Golden Retrievers can be food-obsessed, making them prone to weight gain or obesity. However, most Golden Retrievers are always hungry and will inhale any food you put in front of them. Now, this food drive can also be very much positive. Specifically, food is a high-value reward that can be a source of motivation and make training even more straightforward. But just barely. Physical and mental stimulation is a must to expend that abundance of overactive energy. Therefore, activities that incorporate both mental and physical stimulation are most effective. Golden Retrievers are not lazy dogs. Exercise depends on the individual dog, but an adult Golden Retriever might need one to two hours daily. Inadequate mental and physical stimulation leads to boredom, which, in turn, leads to mischievous and unwanted behaviors. Or they might dig in the backyard. Activities like rally, dock diving, scent work, obedience, and other canine sports are great outlets for expending excess energy for Golden Retrievers. Bailey is a high-energy, level-3 dog. The Ugly The ugly refers to some unpleasant traits found in Golden Retrievers. Each dog breed has its share. For example, bulldogs are known for drooling and flatulence. Newfoundlanders drool and try to swim in their water dishes, plus they are huge shedders. These traits are just the cost of having a dog. Our dogs have less. I have not personally encountered this, but some people have. What is the cause? Often it appears due to a skin allergy or skin problems. Golden Retrievers can be prone to skin issues, allergies, yeast infections, and bacteria. The better the skin condition, the less likely there will be an odor. No different than us. If we fail to shower or have some skin condition, often an aroma accompanies it. Golden Retrievers can also be prone to ear infections. While not overly serious, it can be a cause of an odor. Maintaining a good grooming regimen and being proactive with any issues can go a long way to preventing or mitigating any odor issues. Overbathing can strip body oils, which can potentially cause itchiness and skin issues. Shedding Shedding is probably the most prominent complaint people have about the Golden Retriever. Shedding is regular throughout most of the year and requires weekly brushing once to three times. However, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and will undergo significant shedding events blow their coats twice per year. Brushing is undoubtedly the most important maintenance item for Golden Retrievers. For those who value a neat place, this is an ugly trait. And, yes, hair sometimes becomes a condiment as well. Drooling Not all Golden Retrievers drool. But some do. Ours does. Especially after drinking out of the water dish. Expect puddles of water strewn throughout the house if you have a drooling Golden Retriever, especially around the water bowl. Drooling is also linked to food, and because the Golden Retriever is so food-driven, expect a lot of drooling anytime there is food in the vicinity. Like to Steal Stuff Golden Retrievers like to steal. Some consider this a bad trait. I do not. Remember, good, bad, and ugly are relative and depend solely on your lifestyle and preference. Remember, the breed was bred to retrieve and carry game birds gently. That trait will manifest itself in the Golden carry stuff throughout the house, depositing it on the floor somewhere or bringing it to you. What a Golden Retriever steals and carries often depends on availability, which could be almost anything. His favorites are blankets, towels, jackets, beanies or toques to Canadians , and mitts. Once deposited, he can have quite a collection and quickly mess up the house. He may then pick an item to chew on. Like shedding, those who like an ordered and neat house or forget to hide valuable shoes and slippers may find this trait an ugly one. I find it endearing. Anything and everything is a potential toy to Bailey. All dogs do to varying degrees. After all, dogs do not have hands, so they explore much of their world through their mouths, some more so than others. As discussed, Golden Retrievers were bred to pick up, carry and return downed waterfowl and game for sportspeople. Their mouthiness is instinctual. So, they often like to chew or mouth things. So, those traits can result in a Golden Retriever chewing on whatever is available to them. Often, they will mouth something not chew or rip it apart and cover it with their dog spit. Final Thoughts Like most things in life, much of what we interpret as good or bad is subjective. In contrast, an active household might instead revel in a companion who can keep up with their energy level. Managing expectations is essential, and that starts with knowing what to expect from the outset. And that includes all traits — the good, the bad, and the ugly. The first is that most of us get a dog for the love and joy they bring into our lives. Everything else is secondary to that. And in terms of love and joy, rest assured the Golden Retriever will bring that in abundance. Everything else — or the so-called cons — is inconsequential compared to all the fantastic gifts the Golden bestows upon us during its lifetime. So pick the dog that best fits your household and lifestyle. Seriously, Golden Retrievers tend to live each day as if they have just discovered a swimming pool full of tennis balls and bacon. And while that sunny disposition is appealing, there are pros and cons to consider before bringing one of these blondies into your home. That happy-go-lucky image is not an empty stereotype. This breed is ridiculously good-natured. Smart and easy to train. Their size, speed, agility, and intelligence make them a fun animal to train. Not only for tricks like slow-dancing with you to Adele, but also service-specific skills for limited-ability companions. Loves large families and small kids. Unlike half of your friends. Golden Retrievers adapt well to other pets including cats, rabbits, and other non-dog house pets with a more-the-merrier mentality. Eternal puppy. This breed loves to romp and play and is especially energetic for the first years of life. Not barky. Or bitey. But totally dreamy. This breed gets big pounds and will gladly get bigger if overfed. Needs vigorous exercise and a lot of it. Daily workouts of minutes are a must for this breed. Without it, they can become restless, overweight, and chewy. Holy shed. This breed has hair and a boatload of it. Having a Golden Retriever means having lint brushes. Not great at being alone in an apartment all day.

Here are some things to consider: Size Do you want a big or a small golden? Sex Do you want a male or a female? Style Or a stocky, blocky-headed golden retriever? Color Do you want a dark gold or red golden , a cream-colored golden , or something more in the middle? Personality Do you want a calm golden or more of an energetic one? Nobody will be able to tell you what you want out of a dog but yourself. Consider your lifestyle, home, whether or not you have kids , what you like to do on the weekend, etc. If you want to get a good feel for what a puppy will be like, look at their parents. Temperament and health are hereditary and no puppy test or observation will be as accurate as what their parents are like. So that being said, pick a good breeder that is breeding dogs that resemble what you want. There are two important things here: Talk to the breeder and tell them what you want Observe the puppies and look for the puppy that resembles what you want Talk To The Breeder The breeder has spent the last eight weeks with the puppies and knows them best. By telling them what you want they can help you decide the right one for you. But assuming the decisions lays in your hands, this next section will help you out. Selecting A Puppy From The Litter When we went to pick our puppy from the litter we knew exactly what we wanted: a big, calm, sweet boy. He had probably worn himself out trying to impress them because two days later we were wondering what happened to that calm puppy as a fluffy little tornado was tearing around our apartment! Are they submissive? This might give you some insight into their personality. Take note of their energy levels. Consider how your puppy interacts with people. How are they with you, whoever is with you, and the breeder? Are they fearful? A friendly dog will be outgoing and interested in you. Toss your keys or a toy. Put the puppy on their back. Either cradle them in your arms on their back, or roll them on their back on the floor. A dominant pup may squirm a lot, but a well-adjusted pup should calm down shortly. They should be ok with being handled. Shoutout to Vet Street for a few of the tips above. In addition to choosing the right puppy, you also want to choose a healthy puppy. Now even if you have your checklist and run each pup through these tests, it may all go out the window if a puppy picks you. But as we tried to give each puppy a chance and interact with all of them, Oliver kept coming back to my wife and nuzzling his nose into her to tell her that he was the one. Conclusion When picking a puppy you first want to decide what you want. Then pick a breeder that breeds dogs that resemble what you want. When it comes to actually picking the puppy from the litter, talk to the breeder about it and try to see which puppies match up with what you want. However, know that puppies may be different than how they initially appear. And finally, you might not even need to worry about picking the right puppy because the right puppy just might pick you. Have any questions about picking a golden retriever puppy from the litter? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is about to pick up a puppy, please share this with them! Related articles:. However, picking the right puppy from a litter can be overwhelming and stressful. So, what is the easiest way to pick a golden retriever puppy from a litter? An excellent way to see how your potential puppy will turn out is to take a look at his parents. Most importantly, ask the breeder a lot of questions before adopting. This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! A responsible breeder is your best bet for a healthy puppy. A dog breeder like this will cut corners and overbreed in order to get as many viable Golden retriever pups to sell to unsuspecting puppy buyers as possible. Even if the price for a golden retriever puppy appears to be less initially, the potential long-term health and behavioral problems involved with a puppy from a genetically unhealthy litter will quickly surpass the cost of a puppy from a good breeder. Some of the best ways to find a quality golden retriever puppy breeder is to get referrals from your local veterinarian, a good friend, or a local golden retriever club. You can also find an excellent golden retriever breeder by attending professional dog shows. When you look each puppy over, you want to look specifically at their eyes, coat, build, and skin. Look at their eyes. They should look focused and clear. You want to keep an eye out for any golden retriever puppies that rub their eyes or appear to struggle with their vision, such as squinting. Touch their coat. The coat of your new perfect puppy should be shiny and healthy. Examine their build. Take a look at the overall shape of each puppy. Check to see if they are favoring one foot more than another foot. These could be signs of a more serious health issue. Check their skin. You want to keep an eye out for any flaky skin or skin with bald patches. Look for redness or signs of irritation. There are also instances when a puppy with anxiety will chew or scratch at their skin until the fur falls off. Things to look for when choosing a puppy from a litter. Even the runts are going to be bigger than a lot of other breeds. Many people wonder if the runt of the litter is a good choice when choosing a golden retriever. The runts are typically the pups who are weaker and smaller than the others in their litter. The mother produces the nutrients the litter needs to survive. The runts will be at greater risk of having weaker immune systems and getting infections. Choosing a medium-sized puppy will reduce your chances of getting a runt, an overeater, or a bully overly dominant pup. When it comes to temperament and size, there are differences between females and males. The most significant difference is going to be their size. A male dog will get slightly longer and taller than females, but they will also weigh more. There are also small differences in their faces. They can also come across as more territorial, but this is a very slight difference as well. While the females will still love you unconditionally, the males will be twice as doting and loving. Watch the way each member of the litter interacts with the others. This will tell you how your puppy will react to the other dogs or animals in your home. Extremely shy puppies may not have been socialized well so far, and could grow up to become distrustful dogs that are full of anxieties. Speak with the breeder or the owner of the litter. Ask them tons of questions about how socialized the puppies have been with other dogs and pets so far in their young lives. Make Sure the Golden Retriever Puppy Is the Correct Age Golden retriever puppies should stay with their mothers for eight weeks before being adopted and taken home. As mentioned earlier, the mothers produce vital nutrients that a new puppy needs to survive. If the puppy is taken away too soon, it puts them at greater risk of infections and other complications. It can also increase their anxiety, aggression and make them over-protective of their toys and food. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Before seeing the litter, research what a golden retriever puppy of eight weeks looks like. It will vary depending on the dog, but this will help you establish a clear idea of what the puppies will look like when you see the litter. The size and temperament of the parents are passed down to their offspring. What is the temperament of the parents? How does the puppy in question behave around dogs outside their litter? What kind of food are the puppies used to eating? Have the puppies all been dewormed? Are the puppies socialized with other animals besides dogs, such as cats or birds? Summary Adopting a puppy is a significant milestone for a family. But simply picking a Golden Retriever from the litter might not be quite as easy as it seems, remember, this pooch would be with you for the rest of its life, so you have to be sure that the Golden Retriever pup you are selecting is just right for you and your family. There are a lot of things to consider, and lots of questions to be answered: What color should I pick? What temperament would I want? Should I pick a male or female Golden Retriever? Lots of questions that require answers. Your experience with the beautiful Golden Retriever should be enjoyed. First off, is Golden Retriever the right dog for you? I assume that you probably did a lot of research on the Golden Retriever breed before picking a reputable breeder to patronize or work with. The Golden Retriever is quite energetic and clingy, and as such does require a lot of time and attention. It requires a lot of exercises to keep from being destructive and for an adult Golden Retriever, an average of hours would be required daily to properly exercise the breed. And for those allergic to dogs or dog coats, the Golden Retriever might not be the best breed for you. This is because the Golden Retriever is a moderate to heavy shedder during shedding season. You might want to consider a Labrador Retriever, checkout our comparison for more detail: Golden Retriever Vs. When trying to decide what sort of Golden Retriever is best for you, answers to these questions would be needed. Male or Female Golden Retriever? This sort of decision might be quite easy for some and incredibly difficult for others. This is because to some, any gender is good enough they have no preferences , while for the rest, specific reasons or purposes could cause them to favor a particular Golden Retriever gender over the other. Both the male and female Golden Retrievers are very lively and equally playful at this stage of their lives. The only slight difference, however, that might occur or might be noticeable between both breeds might be size, as the male Golden Retriever is only slightly bigger or larger than the female when looking at the same litter. As both Golden Retrievers approach their individual sexual maturity, you might begin to notice a lot more differences. A lot of generalization is done between both, the male and female genders of the Golden Retriever breed. Some might say that the male Golden Retriever is a lot more hyperactive and could be harder to train than the female Golden Retriever, or that the female Golden Retriever matures quite faster than the male Golden Retriever, but again, these are all generalizations and speculations. Another popular generalization or myth is that the female Golden Retriever is a lot more independent and affectionate than the male Golden Retriever, again, it could still just be a myth. What Size of the Golden Retriever should I pick? As we already stated earlier, the gender of the Golden Retriever has a huge impact on the size of the Golden Retriever. Golden Retriever males are bigger than Golden Retriever females when comparing two Golden Retrievers from the same litter. What style of the Golden Retriever should I go with? Deciding on what Golden Retriever style you would like is equally important. Are you looking for an athletic Golden Retriever or a slim Golden Retriever, or are you in search of a more stocky and blocky-headed Golden? What Color of Golden Retriever should I go with? Of course, the Golden Retriever has a variety of different coat colors that you could be interested in. Some of these colors are; red-gold or dark gold, or perhaps, maybe a cream-colored Golden Retriever. Either way, there are some interesting Golden Retriever colors to choose from. What sort of personality should I look for? This is yet another decision that can only be made by you. The personality of the Golden Retriever you choose is quite important, so you definitely need an answer to this question. Are you looking for an energetic Golden Retriever dog or a calmer and more gentle companion? You might be searching for a friendly and outgoing Golden Retriever or perhaps a shy or reserved Golden Retriever. The breeder should know them best, being that they have spent approximately 8 weeks with the puppies. The breeder should be able to tell in each litter which of the Golden Retriever puppies is more dominant, which is shy, which is, which barks a lot, which is calmer, and of course, which of the Golden Retriever pups is most energetic. So, by simply telling him what exactly you are looking for in a Golden Retriever, he should be able to make helpful suggestions and recommendations. This is quite common in breeders today, they usually do the picking for you based on the requests and information you give them, which I personally feel is better. These 6 tips would be quite beneficial in deciding which Golden Retriever puppy is best for you. Does it dominate the other Golden Retriever puppies or is it a more submissive puppy? Try to notice the energy levels of each Golden Retriever pup A great way to figure out the temperament of a Golden Retriever pup would be by checking out their energy levels. A Golden Retriever pup that spends half its time barking and the other half running around is a clear indication that it is anything but calm. Notice how your chosen pup reacts or interacts with people In addition to watching how your pup reacts with other littermates, you also have to watch how they react with people. When you interact with them, how do they react, also watch their interaction with the breeder and basically strangers? Do they react in a curious manner? Are they quite fearful? Or are they the outgoing and friendly type that seems to be quite interested in interacting with humans? Try tossing a toy or your keys at the pup This is a great way to identify how alert your Golden Retriever puppy really is. Once you toss your keys or a toy at the pup, try to notice how quickly your Golden Retriever reacts to it. Does your pup run after it? Or does it follow the toy or keys with its eyes? Try putting the Golden Retriever pup on its back As you pick and cradle the Golden Retriever pup, you could try placing it on its back while in your arms or placing it on its back while on the floor. For a dominant Golden Retriever pup, it should squirm or struggle a bit, while for a more submissive and calmer puppy, it should also struggle for a bit but shortly relax. Try Caressing your Golden Retriever puppy You could try caressing your chosen Golden Retriever pup by gently rubbing its ears, tails, paws, and mouth. A calm Golden Retriever puppy should be cool with it. Note: Be sure to check the health of your chosen pup before choosing. Also, your Golden Retriever might pick you. This is not new, as some dog owners have shared their various experiences. Some pups could run up to you all sweetly and cute looking for a cuddle, some could pee on you while others might even go as far as peeing on you, but all in all, when a puppy picks you, you would know. Final Thoughts Picking a Golden Retriever puppy that is just right for you and your family is not an easy task, but it is quite important as this dog would be with you for a huge part of its life. So do ensure you stay attentive when choosing. Ensure that your chosen pup is quite healthy, ensure they are well tested and strong. Following all the steps listed above should be enough to help you when selecting a Golden Retriever pup. In all you do, please ensure that you shower your new Golden Retriever with so much love and care. Drink a lot of water, eat well and of course, always stay devoted to dogs. How will we ever decide? Our Selection Process If you have ever chosen a puppy from a breeder, you were probably given a thirty-minute time slot, a pile of ten puppies and no behavior or temperament information. You likely chose your puppy based on color or gender, or both. You might have chosen the first puppy who came up to you, the puppy lying by himself over in the corner, or the puppy who kept crawling into your lap. Maybe you chose the runt because you felt sorry for her. Every single puppy has a purpose. Some dogs are meant to hunt or search, others are meant to perform valuable tasks, and still others are meant to offer comfort. Most dogs are meant for lifelong companionship. Service dogs and therapy dogs serve very different purposes. The testing and selection process for each is different, as is the training. A dog can never truly be a family pet AND a service dog. A therapy dog can never be an emotional support animal and a family pet, because an ESA is bonded to one person while a family pet divides his time with various family members or friends. Candidates for our therapy and service dog programs are chosen first We do not consider gender or color when temperament testing or placing dogs into our programs We can not control the number of puppies in a litter, nor the number of males and females in a litter. We usually take three male deposits and three female deposits prior to the birth of the litter. Once the litter is born and we know how many puppies we have, we accept additional deposits. We follow a puppy protocol from the day puppies are born, exposing them to different sounds and surfaces. We hold them in different positions and we move them around increasingly. We work with their pressure points and we use essential oils to relax and stimulate them. We construct these profiles based on observed behaviors during weeks such as barking, growling, shyness, food assertiveness, independence, maturity, patience, motivation. Temperament testing occurs during week 6. If the family with the third deposit on the list wants a pet, we will suggest the puppy ies that most closely match their family profile. If the puppy they wanted was selected by the family with the first deposit, they may then move to their second choice. A family who makes the LAST deposit in a litter may not get their first choice, however we do our very best to accommodate everyone. While families may have a color or gender preference, we suggest being open-minded and willing to consider the puppy with the temperament that best fits you and your needs. We do our best to get the right puppy for you, and we are unable to allow a family to wait until pick up day to select a puppy. Above everything, we must ask our families to trust us during this process. Our experience with goldens and goldendoodles, and the relationships we have with our families, have made us what we are today. If you do not feel comfortable with the selection process, please seek another breeder. By placing a deposit, you are agreeing with our testing and selection process. Your deposit is non-refundable, but it may be forwarded to a future litter. The selection process differs from those of other breeders and priority is given to our program. We make every effort to match puppies which best fit family profiles that are submitted in online puppy applications. We cannot determine the number of puppies or the number of males and females in a litter. When necessary, placement decisions will be made according to the order in which deposits are received. You love me when I am not lovable. You find me in the darkness. You keep my secrets and lick my tears. You teach me to live like someone left the gate open. No doubt, selection of the right pup to meet one's particular expectations is extremely important. Making a correct choice can improve the odds of producing an excellent retriever with the least amount of frustration and perhaps even avoid disappointment. The first and most important point to consider is that one must approach puppy acquisition as a genetic selection process rather than trying to utilize methods to select a promising prospect from a particular litter. Focus not so much on picking a pup, rather pick litters. The way to pick potentially successful liters is to pick a breeder who has proven brood stock and a credible reputation for producing healthy pups genetically predisposed to perform in a manner you desire. Carefully consider your expectations for your future gundog. What are the desirable traits? What will the dog's primary functions include? What breeds interest you and why? Once you decide on a breed and the desired traits are defined based upon your intended uses, then seek a reputable breeder who has experience producing pups which exemplify the traits that best suit your purposes. Genes determine the reaction of the dog to its environment, as well as, confirmation and soundness. Genes are the building blocks of heredity and are passed from parents to offspring in a predictable manner. The topic of genetics can quickly progress into a lengthy discussion unsuitable for this article but one can count on knowing this-like begets like. Total outcrosses, matings of unrelated genetics, may produce the occasionally exceptional offspring, but this is an unpredictable undertaking. The only way to gain predictability of traits is to seek an experienced breeder with proven bloodlines which produce successful progeny. This will usually involve some form of line breeding. The mating of similar genetic relationships line breeding is conducted to intensify qualities within the line and to improve upon the predictable traits within litters. Line breeding is successfully practiced in all forms of livestock. Line breeding itself produces nothing, good or bad, it merely intensifies what is genetically there in the bloodline. Most professional breeders use some form of line breeding as soon as they find a successful combination. In other words, outcrosses, random matings, despite the parents' apparent abilities and or titles, will not assure that the traits of the parents will be passed to the offspring. Only line breeding can offer this possibility. Consider, too, there is often as much difference between litter mates in ability, temperament, and tractability as one might find between separate litters within a breed. The chance factor remains, but the odds improve if the buyer: 1. Buys from established, reputable breeders who know their business. Buys pups from breeders who specialize in producing the type retriever they desire. Buys pups produced by excellent gundog parents who have produced proven progeny from previous matings. Select litters with strong mother lines. Dams should be trained hunting dogs and she should possess the qualities you desire in your dog, not just in the sire. Dams project more influence on the litter than the sire. Good bitches are seldom mated to poor dogs, yet the opposite frequently occurs. A poor bitch is unlikely to produce good pups despite the virtues of the sire. Look closely for desirable traits and strength in the trailing bottom line of the pedigree That is the dam, granddam, great granddam, etc. Excellent mothers are important. Don't pick litters based solely on the number of titles in the pedigree. These are impressive achievements to be sure, but they are not indicators of natural tractability, temperament, and gamefinding ability. Nor do titles indicate whether the traits may be passed successfully to the offspring. Evaluate parents of pups based upon gundog standards important to your needs and their demonstrated ability to produce good pups. Seek out sires, dams and grandparents that project strong genetic traits that can be passed through to their offspring. Research has indicated grandsires and granddams prove to have more genetic influence upon the litter than the sire and dam. Genetics can influence natural gifts, such as: calm temperament. This could cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills down the road. On the other hand, when you buy the animal from a licensed Golden Retriever breeder, you can pick out your future puppy with confidence. Not only will proof of his pedigree show that your breeder is certified, but it will also verify that your puppy is a true Golden Retriever. The best puppy breeders take pride in providing healthy dogs through careful genetic research. They should be so confident in their work that they offer you a health guarantee , which will tell you what to do if your puppy faces any unforeseen health issues. Since breeders are there from the day the puppies and their parents! And picking the right pet for your family starts with finding a breeder you can trust. No matter how nice they seem or how attractive their website looks, you should always do a little bit of research before choosing a Golden Retriever breeder. Here are important points that all breeders should address: Image Source Does the breeder give back to the breed? Breed preservation should be the primary goal of Golden Retriever breeders. They should participate in keeping the species alive through membership at a Golden Retriever breed dog club, a performance club, or an obedience club. What type of experience does the breeder have? Do they stay true to the pure genetic traits of the breed? Do they provide health screenings and health guarantees? Can you meet the puppies and parents in person? How many litters do the females have each year? Female Golden Retrievers can have up to two litters per year. However, breeders who follow ethical practices will only allow the females to have four to six litters in their lifetime. A female can breed between the ages of two and eight. Once you choose a breeder that seems like a good fit for you and your family, you should write up some questions to ask them. And in return, expect some questions about you, your lifestyle, and your home! One of the first things any breeder you inquire about should provide is a list of former buyers. Reviews posted online are one thing, but being able to talk with customers directly speaks volumes about the legitimacy of the breeder. When you speak with their former customers, ask questions about their buying experience and how their dog is doing years after purchase. Puppies should receive some level of preventative care that is appropriate for their age. Newborn puppies up to eight weeks old should stay with their mothers, but they will also receive their first round of core vaccines during these few weeks. They should have a yearly examination by a licensed veterinarian that will perform vaccines, flea, tick, and heartworm prevention, as well as general health checkups. A reputable, passionate breeder will be more than happy to receive updates and questions about their puppies well into adulthood. With that being said, the breeder should also provide a health guarantee. A health guarantee states that you are not financially liable for any genetic issues in the puppy, as long as the health condition is verified by a certified veterinarian. This is an essential point that you might not think twice about. A good Golden Retriever breeder will ask questions to determine if your household is a good fit for their puppy. Image Source 1 Why do you want a dog? This is a simple yet important question that you should have an answer to. Golden Retriever breeders that dedicate their livelihood to continuing the pure genetic bloodline will want to know what appeals to you about these energetic companions. Additionally, the breeder might ask who will be walking, feeding, and playing with the dog. Golden Retriever puppies require tons of attention, especially during the first two years of their lives. If the breeder asks this, they want to know how your children will be participating in the handling of the puppy. They also want to understand how you plan to introduce the puppy to other pets so they can coexist safely within the same home. No matter how nice a breeder may seem, you want to avoid accidentally contributing to backyard breeders or a puppy mill disguised as a reputable breeder. Doing so can cost you thousands of dollars in medical bills and years of potential heartbreak. Here are some of the most critical and obvious warning signs of an untrustworthy breeder. Less experienced breeders will charge on the lower end, and more experienced breeders usually with generations of pure genetic proof! Additionally, some of the best breeders will only sell trained puppies to ensure their pooches are family- and forever-home ready. Therefore, you should receive standard documentation upon adopting your new Golden Retriever puppies, such as care instructions, registration papers, vaccination records, and necessary contracts. The contract may also state that you agree to surrender the puppy instead of adopting him out to a shelter or the pound. Some warranties will say that the breeder should have the right to reclaim the puppy in an unexpected situation like this. If you do ask for references, and they give you a list of written reviews instead of contact information for former clients, this is a red flag. A refusal for a tour means that the breeder knows potential clients may be turned away by the environment. If you are invited to tour a facility, learn about what a professional kennel should look and smell like first. The bottom line is, you need to do plenty of research.

Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. What factors determine the price of a German Shepherd Puppy? The price of a German Shepherd puppy does vary, depending on her age, color, bloodline, litter size, location, as well as breeding cost. German Shepherds obtained from animal shelters and rescue organizations are relatively inexpensive because they charge only enough to cover their costs. Here are the 5 most prominent factors that will affect the price of a German Shepherd: 1. Age Age is the most important factor in determining the price of a German Shepherd Dog. All in all, it has a lot to do with the desirability of a cuddly puppy. Puppies that are only weeks old will cost the most. It is because this marks the beginning of the most precious moments of a puppy. The demand drives up the price. The price of German Shepherd puppies of 12 weeks or older will start to decrease. Adult German Shepherds will be offered at much lower prices because some people see them as less desirable. Another reason is that the new owner may need to set a budget for health issues related to senior dogs. Coat Color Some colors are more expensive than others. For German Shepherds, colors such as white will cost more than the usual black and tan. This is because these rare coat colors are more difficult to breed. Bloodline Although purebred German Shepherds puppies are the most sought-after ones, mixed-breed pups usually cost much less and have the potential to be healthier than many purebreds. In general, German Shepherds have working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. We will get into them later in this article. Litter size It refers to the number of puppies in a litter. Usually, the more the number of puppies in a litter, the cheaper the price will become. Location The location from where you purchase your German Shepherd can actually affect how much you pay. Areas with a lower cost of living, or places where there is less demand will typically charge lower prices than more populated cities. Certain states or cities may even have more regulations on breeding which may increase the cost, thus the price of a German Shepherd pup. And these all come at a cost for the breeders. What are the different variations of the German Shepherd bloodline and their prices? While the German Shepherd is a dog breed of its own, you may probably stumble upon different variations. Purebred German Shepherds come in many different sizes, colors, coloration patterns, and body styles. In general, German Shepherds are divided into working lines and show lines, totaling five different variations. Here is a four-minute video from which you can learn about their variations: 1. They have a distinctive angulation with their back legs shorter than their front legs, thinner bones, and significantly smaller heads. They come in quite a few colors, mostly solid with occasional bi-color variations, including black and tan saddle, solid back, solid white, and saddle sable. But their obedient and playful character make them fantastic pets. There are certain measurement minimums for their hips and elbows. This results in a stunning, very specific, and uniform appearance. These dogs have a very strong, pronounced build with a black and tan saddle, and solid back. They make good house protectors and need a lot of exercises and to be trained frequently. These dogs are very social. So they are perfect for families with kids. This is the line of GSD you would normally see in movies. They are also closest to the original breed that was bred and developed by Max von Stephanitz, who is acknowledged as the father of German Shepherd Dogs. With a stable temperament, they excel in working jobs, and also make awesome family pets. Rigid control of the original DDR breed prevents the gene poll from diluting. They must be free from any history of hip dysplasia, among other health conditions, to be able to reproduce. This resulted in a very distinct look — with large heads, large bones, and a shiny dark coat. The Czech further tightened the breeding standards, resulting in arguably the most intense breed of German Shepherd available to date. But they are extremely loyal and obedient, with a pleasant temperament. They could be the best guard dog to protect people. But they are extremely rare nowadays. Other factors that affect the cost of a German Shepherd A puppy whose parents and often grandparents and other relatives are hunting champions has the potential to excel in these areas as well. And it will cost you more than any puppy who is the offspring of just average parents. And the most expensive German Shepherds are those adults with proven records as show dogs, K9, or breeding dogs. What is a reasonable price for a German Shepherd puppy? Reputable breeders, when pricing their German Shepherd puppies, must factor in the cost of breeding, feeding, raising, and caring for the pups as well as their mother. Less - The German Shepherds are medium to large-sized dogs , well-balanced, muscular dog, slightly longer than tall, with a medium length coat, erect ears, and a low-set natural tail that normally reaches to the hock and is carried in a slight curve like a saber. The outline of the German Shepherd Dog is made up of smooth curves rather than angles. The head is in proportion to the size of the body, strong without appearing coarse or fine. Gender differences are readily apparent. The German Shepherd Dog is confident and fearless, willing to be approached, yet a certain level of aloofness towards strangers is acceptable. When working, the German Shepherd is alert and eager, adapting well to new tasks. Lack of confidence is a serious defect in the character of a German Shepherd. The structure of this breed was designed for efficient locomotion, particularly at the trot, so poor movement is another serious fault. History Less - The German Shepherd Dog is a relatively young breed, developed almost single-handedly in the first half of the twentieth century by a German cavalry officer, Max von Stephanitz, president of the Verein far Deutsche Schaferhunde S. Using a variety of German sheepdogs as his foundation stock, von Stephanitz developed a distinctive breed in a very short period of time, due in large part to the authoritarian practices of the German dog fancy at that time. Von Stephanitz emphasized utility and intelligence in his breeding program, enabling the German Shepherd Dog to switch easily from herding duties to other fields of work, particularly military and police work. All things German were shunned and popularity slumped. After the war, however, movie star Rin-tin-tin stimulated interest in the breed again. The striking good looks of this breed, combined with its remarkable intelligence and loyalty, have made it a favorite working and companion dog. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. If you are looking to buy a German Shepherd puppy, then you should find one from a reputable breeder. While these puppies are more expensive, a reputable breeder can guarantee the health and behavior of the puppy. These dogs are prone to genetic diseases such as hip and elbow dysplasia. These health issues can be avoided by genetically testing the parents, which is something reputable breeders usually do. When improperly raised puppies might have behavioral issues and can cause a lot of damage if they bite someone. A good breeder will have their dogs pass a temperament test. German Shepherd Dog Price While most dogs in shelters are adults, adopting a German Shepherd is a great way to find a dog without supporting unethical breeding. Sometimes these hardworking shepherd dogs are given up because they are very energetic. Not everyone is able to take care of a dog that needs a lot of attention and exercise. Some people buy a German Shepherd puppy without understanding the work involved in caring for this breed. Why Are They So Expensive? Breeding a healthy and well-behaved German Shepherd puppy is not easy! It is not as simple as crossing German Shepherds together. However, if you want a puppy of good temperament that is genetically healthy, there are other costs involved in the breeding and raising. This is especially important for a German Shepherd. You do not want a puppy that grows up to be aggressive or that suffers from mobility issues due to hip and elbow dysplasia. Papers A paperless German Shepherd puppy will be the cheapest. Typically breeders invest as little as possible in these pups. You get a puppy just how it is, without knowing its pedigree or background. A puppy with health certifications, temperament test results, and registration papers costs more than this. However, those papers will be beneficial not just for you, but also the puppy. This means your puppy meets the breed standard and is a purebred dog. The last thing you want is to buy a German Shepherd wolf-mix thinking it is purebred. Veterinarian Visits Reputable breeders not only genetically health test the parents, but they will also take the puppy to see a vet before 8 weeks for a basic health check. During these visits breeders will also have the puppies vaccinated, dewormed and placed on preventatives. When you buy a German Shepherd puppy from a reputable breeder, they will offer you a health guarantee. Most will also be able to provide you proof that the puppy has passed a temperament test. Training Some breeders also take the time to socialize and train their puppies. Many experienced breeders have a specialized training program that begins the process of potty training and basic obedience. This will mean you have an easier time housetraining your puppy, but you will have to pay for their efforts! These are all good signs that the puppy you are buying is of good quality. This will mean you are more likely to avoid any temperament issues or having to pay for vet visits to diagnose and treat hip and elbow dysplasia. Bloodlines Breeders who focus on breeding championship bloodlines will charge more for their puppies. A family might not need such a high-quality German Shepherd. All they need is a healthy and well-behaved puppy that will bring them years of happiness. However, there are many people who need a working dog or show dog. The most expensive dogs are those that are bred to be champions or protective and hard-working. Some breeders spend thousands of dollars just training a world class service dog. A family friendly guard dog with a protective temperament is not easy to breed consistently. Breeders have to factor in not just the genetics, but also the temperament and training. Origin The most expensive types of German Shepherds are those that are imported directly from Germany. Breeders must pay to stud and import these dogs which is not cheap. Since the German Shepherd breed originated in Germany, breeders in the US import dogs from Germany to breed puppies with a purebred lineage. Breeding in Europe is more regulated so the bloodlines are better protected. These puppies are known as European German Shepherds and are slightly different. They are smaller, have straighter backs and brighter coat colors. Some people think they look similar to a belgian malinois. Most European dogs are bred to be working dogs, while American dogs are more frequently bred for companionship. This is the same for American and German Rottweilers and American vs. European Dobermans. All of these breeder will be able to provide: Pedigree and kennel club registration. Documents that certify the puppy is free of any disease and has been checked by a veterinarian. A health warranty. Health records that guarantee the parents are genetically healthy and will not pass on elbow or hip dysplasia. These German Shepherd breeders all breed their puppies in accordance with the breed standard. None of them will sell puppies that are not registered with the American Kennel Club. Another good place to start looking for breeders is the American Kennel Club marketplace. Many of these puppies are bred to be family dogs and come with their papers. As you start looking into more well-known breeders or those that produce dogs of championship or working bloodlines, then the price of a German Shepherd starts to increase. Julia was a German Shepherd bred by the Harrison K-9 facility, highly trained in protection. She could also understand commands in three different languages. Her intelligence, as well as her ability to protect, were why she was priced so highly. Julia was bought by a billionaire businessman in Minneapolis, Minnesota. The rarest coat color is panda, which is why it is also the most expensive. These German Shepherds are black and white. It is a piebald pattern where the black coat is splotched with large patches of white. Some puppies can have other colors like tan, instead of white. Panda dogs are purebred, but the rarity of this mutation makes them very hard to find. There are very few breeders that sell the panda color. And he actually cost nothing! By the end of his life, Rin Tin Tin had appeared in 27 Hollywood films. Rin Tin Tin most notably helped Warner Bros. But these dogs come in more than just this classic color! There are 11 colors that are recognized by the breed standard. Check out the table below for some German Shepherd prices based on coat color. The tan color covers the chest, belly and legs. White A white puppy has a furry coat that is entirely white, allowing it to blend in with the snow. Its eyes and nose are black as coal. Black A black German Shepherd has a coat that is entirely black. Any other color would classify them as a bi-color. Blue A blue German Shepherd is not literally blue, but has a gray color with a bluish hue. Sable The sable color is one of the most common colors, but is a bit more interesting than the black and tan. The hairs of these dogs have bands of tan and black, giving them a very unique coloring. Some of the factors that contribute to this cost are: Food. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

New Feature 7 dapper hairstyles for your poodle Your poodle is an elegant dog that deserves to be taken care of with impeccable style. The poodle's coat is its most distinguishing feature, and it's essential to keep it looking its best. Grooming is key, and a good haircut can make all the difference! As your dog's fur grows out, it can become tangled and unruly, making for a frustrating appearance. Your poodle is an elegant dog that deserves to be taken care of with impeccable style. There are many different styles of haircuts a poodle can have, and it can be tough to decide which one is right for your pup. It can be hard to know where to start with so many options available. Don't worry; we're here to help! In this article, we'll take a look at seven trendy hairstyles your poodle can rock on his walk. The Lion Cut Let's start with one of the most popular poodle haircuts of all, the lion cut. Sometimes referred to as the "puppy cut," this hairstyle takes advantage of your poodle's long fur to give them a mane-like appearance. The dog's limbs are left hairless, except for a pompom around the tail, front and rear paws. A perfect look for poodles who want to show off their luxurious locks! This hairstyle will last a while since the short hairs on your poodle's face and body will help prevent matting. You should still brush your pup regularly to keep his coat clean and healthy! The Puppy Cut Another popular haircut for poodles and other small dogs like the Yorkshire Terriers is the "puppy cut. While the fur looks a little longer around the face, the haircut mimics a human infant rather than a furry animal. With this cut, your pup will feel extra comfortable as he goes about his day! While many owners opt for this style as it doesn't require as much maintenance as other cuts, it's easy to get tired of the same look over time. Your poodle will still need regular brushing to remove tangles and maintain his healthy coat. Teddy Bear Cut Do you love the look of a teddy bear? The teddy bear cut is another popular choice for poodle haircuts. It's an adorable style that looks kind of like your pup has a bushy mane! This technique leverages the poodle's tiny round eyes and creates the illusion of a furry face. The hair should be cut uniformly at mid-length with a rounded shape to the top of the head. It's important not to cut the body fur too short, as we need the poodle's curls to be seen clearly for this cut. The fur around your pup's paws is left untouched, so it appears thick and full, giving your poodle the appearance of having tiny bear paws! These cuts are extremely popular with older dogs who won't have to worry about frequent brushing or bathing. Summer Cut Although you want your poodle to look cute, you also want them to be comfortable! In the summer, it's hot and humid, and your pup will thank you for cutting his hair shorter. The summer cut is an excellent choice for those sweltering days. In this style, all of the hair on your poodle's body is trimmed very short, except for a small tuft around the tail and large pompoms around the legs. This style is easy to maintain and will help your pup stay comfortable in the summer heat. Dutch Cut Known for its frequent appearance in dog shows, the dutch cut is a great choice for poodles that want a unique look. This creates a "Mohawk" look that is sure to turn heads! The tail can also be left long or cut short to complement your pup's look. The face and paws are the only parts of the body shaved, so you get a little bit of extra grooming time! This cut requires regular brushing to keep your poodle's coat clean and tangle-free. English Saddle Cut The English saddle cut is a popular choice for poodles with longer coats. This haircut is similar to the dutch cut, but it explicitly leaves more hair on the top of your poodle's head. The face and legs are also shaved, but a little more fur is left on the body to create an overall rounded look for this cut. This cut is great-looking but will require regular brushing and bathing to prevent mats from forming. Short Cut This is a prevalent choice for poodles with shorter hair, as it is low-maintenance and easy to groom. In this style, all of the hair on your dog's body is trimmed short, except for the ears. The fur around his face and paws is also shaved short, giving your pup a clean, polished look. This style is perfect for owners who want their dogs to look neat and tidy with minimal effort! Although this style doesn't require as much grooming as other styles, it's still necessary to brush your poodle regularly as the fur grows back. Things To Know Before Grooming Your Poodle Now that you know a little bit about the different types of poodle haircuts, there are a few things to keep in mind before you get started. All poodles require regular brushing Regardless of the style of haircut you choose. Brushing helps to remove excess hair and keep your poodle's coat healthy. It also helps to stimulate blood flow to the skin, which is important for natural oil production. Be sure to give your pup a good bath before grooming him, It would be best to wash your dog too often, but bathing him before grooming will help remove loose fur and leave your poodle's coat soft and shiny. A lot of groomers also recommend giving your pup a good brush after bathing to remove any excess hair, as it can clog drains or just be tough to clean up. Grooming should be a fun experience for your dog Please don't force your poodle to do anything they don't want to! Teaching them that grooming is a positive, relaxing experience will help the process go by more quickly and smoothly. Start grooming early If your dog is still a puppy, it might be a good idea to introduce him to the grooming process early on. This will help him get used to the sights, sounds, and smells of a groomer's salon, and he'll be more likely to cooperate when it's time for his actual haircut. We recommend sending your dog to a professional groomer for his haircut. This will ensure that your pup gets the best possible cut and that you don't accidentally cut him too short or leave any bald patches. Most groomers offer various services, so be sure to ask what they include in their price. Generally, a groomer will begin by bathing your dog and then trimming his nails, cleaning his ears, and starting to cut the hair according to your specifications. The process will continue with a blow-dry, and then your pup will be ready for his final trim. Poodles are known to have a lot of hair, so it can take a long time to groom them completely. You should expect the process to take up to two hours or more. You should consider many factors when choosing a groomer, including experience, pricing, and location. The best way to find a qualified groomer near you is to use Pawsh's directory. Top-Rated and Vetted Groomers All the groomers on our platform are top-rated, with glowing reviews from previous clients. We also verify all of our groomers based on training and professional experience to ensure that they're the best in their industry. At-Home Grooming Pros Our platform is special because our groomers offer grooming delivery services, meaning they come to you. This can usually help you save a lot of money and offers you the convenience of getting your poodle groomed in the comfort and familiarity of your own home. Save time and hassle by using Pawsh today! App for Android and iPhone Pawsh is available as an app for Android and iPhones to make booking groomers easier than ever before. Just download the application, enter your zip code, choose a poodle-certified groomer near you, and book your appointment! Take advantage of cashless payments to pay, tip, and rebook all through our app! Conclusion Poodles are a pretty high-maintenance breed when it comes to grooming. They have a lot of hair that needs regular attention and time-consuming maintenance. If you want your poodle to look his best, investing in a great haircut from a qualified groomer is key! For an easy way to book quality grooming services at home, Pawsh is the best option for you. Just download our app, book an appointment, and sit back as we take care of your beloved poodle! Related Posts. By Yvonne Villasenor Yvonne Villasenor is a freelance writer and animal lover who just so happens to be allergic to cats and dogs. That doesn't stop her from cuddling with them! When Yvonne's not working, you can find her lounging with her charming Chihuahuas, weightlifting, or wandering around Halloween stores. Having such unique and versatile fur means there are countless poodle haircuts for you to choose from, and a professional groomer can give your poodle a makeover with a hairstyle that best matches her personality and lifestyle. With so many options available, learn how your poodle can look like anything from a plush toy to elegant royalty! Teddy Bear Cut The teddy bear cut is a popular trim for poodles and other long-haired breeds. With this look, your poodle has longer hair on her face for a soft, rounded "teddy bear" appearance, and the rest of the fur on her body is cut at a shorter, uniform length throughout. Talk about cuddly cuteness! Summer Cut Because poodles have a single coat, they can enjoy the luxury that comes with it: the summer cut. Known as one of the most low-maintenance poodle haircuts, the summer cut is a practical haircut option that keeps your poodle's fur short so she stays comfortable in hot weather. So if you're looking to cut your hair to beat the heat in the summer, you and your poodle can rock shorter hairdos together! Puppy Cut No matter your poodle's age, you can seemingly turn back time with the puppy cut. Also a popular choice among poodle parents, the puppy cut is a simple, natural-looking trim that leaves your dog with an evenly cut length, typically 1 to 2 inches, all over. This is a highly modifiable look, so consult your groomer for a length that best fits your and your dog's preference and lifestyle. Continental Cut The continental cut is a glamorous and traditional hairstyle often worn by poodle show dogs. With this look, your poodle's face, throat, feet, and part of the tail are shaved. This look is characterized by full hair on the rib cage and chest, pom poms of fur on the tail, ankles, and hips, as well as a banded topknot on the head. German Trim Looking for a haircut that looks fancy but not too fancy? The German trim uses the power of angles to give your poodle a sharp profile. The hair on your furry friend's legs is left long, while the hair on the body and ears is cut short. This is a great option not only if your poodle is more active but also if your pup is prone to ear infections or ear matting. Modern Cut The modern cut is an elegant hairstyle that combines aesthetics with your poodle's natural features. This cut keeps the hair on the body short, accentuating your poodle's shape. The fur on the head, ears, and tail is left longer to create a fluffy appearance. When your dog has such curly, coarse locks, you may wonder how many trips to the groomer you and your poodle may be making. Poodles and poodle-crosses also go through a coat change in the first year of life, so they need to be groomed more often," says Danna Alexander, owner of Prestige Dog Grooming School. To keep mats and tangles at bay, it's best to brush your poodle at least two to three times a week. Toy poodle haircuts aren't off limits for miniature and standard poodles, just as standard poodle haircuts aren't off limits for miniature and toy poodles. While any poodle can sport any style, there may be common options you'd like to choose from. Because there are various names for different types of poodle haircuts, make sure to bring your groomer a photo of the haircut you'd love your pooch to have. Was this page helpful? This will be good practice for later on — for both of you! Yes, haircuts are essential for Poodles. Their thick, long, curly coats are prone to tangling and trapping debris. When will my Poodle puppy need haircuts? Then, at around four months old, they will shed their puppy coats and start to grow out their rougher adult coats. Frequency As a general rule, Poodles should have their coats clipped every weeks once their adult coats grow out, whatever your desired length. This is because they grow so quickly and can become matted just as fast! What equipment should I use? There are three main types of dog grooming scissors; straight scissors, curved scissors, and thinning shears, and they all perform slightly differently. Straight grooming scissors are a multi-task tool, they have straight blades for general, basic grooming, creating straight lines in the coat, and adding the finishing touches to haircuts. Curved dog grooming shear has a curved blade that can be used to fine-tune and shape specific areas of the coat, such as the paws and hindquarters. Thinning shears have a cutting edge on one blade and teeth on the other, and there are also double thinners that have teeth on both blades. They are designed to remove lots of hair in even sections for a natural finish, and they can also be used to blend out the harsh lines from clippers and texturize the coat. Or, if you just need something for the occasional touch-up between visits to the groomer, a simple pair of electrical motor clippers will do just fine. Electric motor clippers are also good for keeping short coats short. You should also be aware of the types of blades that come with clippers. The higher the number of the blade, the more hair that it will remove. Or, you can get guards that fit a single blade to customize the length, which is a lot more convenient. Start by showing them the equipment and getting them used to the sight and sound of it before you cut any hair. Reward them just for being around it and then try cutting a small section of hair. If they react well, reward them again, and then do another section. Keep rewarding them as you go and again after the haircut is finished. Do it in a well-lit, comfortable part of the home that your pup can stand up in. Once you get them into a routine — keep it up! Work your way down the legs first, then from the neck to the hindquarters, or vice versa, and then the tail. Take care with the feet, underside, and head, shielding their eyes from falling fur. Use long strokes and go from the neck down to the back legs. How to deal with grooming anxiety If your pup is afraid of the scissors or clippers, take it really slowly and try to make it an enjoyable experience. You can do this by breaking up the haircut into smaller sessions to make it less stressful and taking breaks in between each one. Give your dog lots of praise and a reward every time you take a break and ask another family member to comfort them during the haircut. You can start brushing your Poodle from any age. To brush them, simply go in the direction of hair growth using short strokes. Hold the fur at the base with your free hand to remove knots, and use a mat remover for any stubborn mats. Bathing a Poodle puppy As for bathing, you should give your Poodle pup their first proper bath at months old to help them shed their puppy coat, unless they get seriously dirty before that. However, you can give your pup a bath any time after weeks of age to get them used to the sensation, but avoid overbathing them, as this will strip the fur of its natural oils and make it dry and brittle. Once they have their adult coats, your Poodle pup will need a bath once a month. You can even buy shampoo that is designed especially for Poodle coats. To give your Poodle a bath, lather up their wet fur with the shampoo, massage it in, leave it for as long as directed on the bottle, and rinse thoroughly. Follow up with conditioner if necessary. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

These pups are intelligent, friendly, and eager to please. Black Labs are also known for being loyal, protective, and devoted to their families. In addition to their great personalities, Black Labs are also excellent athletes. They excel at agility and obedience trials, and they make excellent hunting and retrieving dogs. Black Labs are versatile dogs that can fit into almost any lifestyle. They do very well with children. The breed is usually tolerant of climbing and tugging by small children and love to be spoiled. This confident yet tender pup is social and easy-going around new people. Black Lab Puppies Health Considerations Though generally very healthy and long-lived — with an average lifespan of around 10 to 12 years — our Black Labs for sale are not without their unique health concerns. Like every breed of dog, there are a few conditions you should be aware of before you consider purchasing one of our Black Lab puppies for sale. Understanding the risks allows you to know the signs and prevent small health concerns from turning into big ones. Hip and elbow dysplasia are both hereditary conditions that can cause joint pain and mobility issues. Allergies are relatively common in dogs, and Black Labs are no exception. Symptoms can include itchiness, redness, and hair loss. Exercise-induced collapse is a relatively rare condition that can be triggered by strenuous activity. Symptoms include weakness, dizziness, and collapse. While these health concerns can be daunting, many of them can be effectively managed with proper care. Finding a Black Lab puppy for sale from a reputable breeder can dramatically — although, not eliminate — the risk of your dog developing some of these conditions. They are also one of the most popular breeds in the United States, in part due to their beautiful black coat. And while the coat does require some maintenance, it is relatively easy to care for. Weekly brushing will help to remove dead hair and keep the coat looking shiny and healthy. Labs also benefit from occasional baths, which will help to remove any dirt or debris that has become trapped in their fur. Meet Black Lab Puppies for Sale. We have AKC English Lab puppies for sale Our goal here at Winter Valley Labs is to breed excellent dual purpose AKC Labrador Retriever puppies that make great companions and family pets, that also have the ability to excel in the field as well as show ring. And of course, in our hearts. We breed for quality, not quantity. We breed English Lab puppies! Each of our litters is carefully planed and bred with purpose. We are a small breeder in Hatley, Wisconsin. Our love and passion for Labrador Retrievers drives us to better the breed and provide families with healthy, happy, perfect pets, companions and hunters. We have been breeding labs for over 10 years, and look forward to that number growing. We bred our first litter in January of .We hope to grow in size now that we have the room for it. We love to take the dogs out bird hunting, and am excited to get them started on waterfowl this year as we are located on the river. I have been around dogs my whole life, but the lab has always been my favorite. I started studying at the UW of Stevens Point for Wildlife Ecology and Captive Wildlife management, and had done some study in veterinarian medicine but complications with pregnancy forced me out. I decided after my first son was born that I wanted to stay at home with my babies anyways both human and canine. So I am now a stay at home mom for all of our babies. Prior to that I had worked at an animal shelter as well as a grooming and boarding facility. I am doing some online studies for genetics and animal behavior, as I am always striving to be very well educated with the dogs. I am an avid hunter and LOVE spending the days outside with the dogs. Please note; We do not breed silvers, charcoals or champagne. We do not breed labradoodles, golden labs or any other designer breed. We do have English lab puppies for sale- We breed Fox red lab puppies, yellow lab puppies, black lab puppies, chocolate lab puppies and white lab puppies. Fox red and white labs are registered as yellow labs! These ARE akc recognized unlike the dilute colors. Click here to see what english lab puppies we have that are ready to go and looking for their loving forever homes! Our focus is on the English Lab breed. Please contact us for more information on any of our wonderful English Lab puppies, or upcoming and planned litters! We will help you find the perfect puppy for your family! All of our English Lab puppies are vet checked with the vaccines that are needed and also wormed. They also have their dewclaws removed. If in any case a dew claw, or partial dew claw grows back, that will be the buyers responsibility to take care of, if they feel the need to do so. This can be done at the time of spaying or neutering. This is not a common thing. All of our English Lab Puppies are placed with limited registration Pet homes only If you are looking for full registration Breeding rights Do not wait until pickup day to discuss this with us. This is is a very strong breeding presenting 14 National Field Champions in their combined pedigrees. She is a muscular rock solid 52 pound female of pure energy. She can outrun anyone and her love of retrieving is pure and always front and center. She is definitely her mother's Jet daughter. She taught her well, she is a strong hunting partner and a loyal family companion who loves with her whole heart. She trains the young ones around Bailiwick, she is so very smart. Spend one minute with her and it is obvious, she is "Over the Top", she truly has it all. Retrieve, yes she loves retrieving, ask her and you shall receive. She is a devoted companion who loves with her whole heart, will work all day, not a problem with her. At the end of a long day she is not hard to find, she will be right at your side. This beautiful gal was born dreaming if ducks and duck ponds. Radley is Mr. Personality, he will put a smile on your face. We can retrieve all day or we can just visit and be cool, either way not a problem for Radley. He is truly a pleasure to train, so smart just tell him once and he has it down pat!!!!! This is a very strong breeding.Her love is retrieving, if you have the time she has the energy. She is dedicated, loving and very smart. Training her is a pleasure. What a loving personality, she will put a smile on your face. This is a very strong breeding. Stella presents three National Champions in her pedigree