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Hip and elbow dysplasia Allergies Make sure to mention to your vet that your dog is crossed with a Greyhound. This breed is especially sensitive to anesthesia which increases the chance of death when these dogs are put under. Therefore, your vet needs to be informed of this in case your pup needs surgery or other procedures. With mixed breeds, it can be tricky to find the right dog food. Due to this, it is a good idea to speak to your vet about recommendations. Always select a high-quality dog food that only uses quality protein, fat, and carbohydrates sources. This should be avoided, which means that you need to put your puppy on a high-quality, low-calorie diet. Once again, speak to your vet before choosing a dog food. This breed can have a higher chance of obesity, which can trigger other health conditions and put undue stress on the joints. You should also have set meal times and avoid leaving food out for your dog. Your German Shepherd Greyhound may end up being quite tall. In this case, look for raised feeding bowls. It will be more comfortable for your pup to eat this way. These dogs do need a lot of exercises daily. Aim to give your dog around an hour of physical exercise a day. Failure to do so can result in boredom which can result in destructive behavior. Be careful with your puppy as they grow. If they have a rapid growth spurt, their bones and joints will be at an increased risk of injury and damage. This is why it is best to only let your puppy play on soft surfaces like grass. Stay away from surfaces such as concrete. To ensure that they get all their energy out, try to split their exercise time into two or more sessions. Having access to a backyard can also be a great way for them to work out their excess energy. Bear in mind that this pup may have a higher prey drive. You will need to keep a tight grip on your leash when you go on walks. Anything from a squirrel to a cat can trigger this drive, causing your pooch to run after them. These pups can still shed quite a bit. It is quite easy to keep them well-groomed, though. Brushing them a few times a week can help to prevent shedding. If your dog has a coat that is more similar to German Shepherds, there may be more grooming involved. Try to brush your dog around three times a week and use an undercoat rake if they have thicker fur. Some dogs may blow their coats a few times a year — the shedding will increase exponentially at this point. To overcome this, start brushing your dog every day during this period. A few times a year is enough to keep them clean. Always use a gentle, dog-friendly shampoo to keep their skin and fur in good condition. The best climate for German Shepherd Greyhounds will depend on their coat. Those with thick, double coats may hold up in the cold a little better. For those with thinner coats, though, warmer climates are best. These pups may begin to shiver when the temperature drops and may require sweaters and warm clothing. See also The German Shepherd Labrador Mix: Sheprador Despite their size, these dogs do quite well in apartments as long as they get plenty of exercises. Taking them out several times a day can make it easier to adapt to the smaller space. This mixed breed is highly trainable. They are intelligent and can learn a wide variety of commands and activities. It is important to approach their training the right way. To begin with, start from the moment your dog comes home. It is easier to train your puppy and get rid of bad habits when they are younger. It should be noted that some Shephounds can be a bit stubborn, standing their ground during training. While it is important to remain firm, avoid being harsh with your dog or punishing them. If you recall, they are quite sensitive and will react poorly to punishment. Instead, focus on positive reinforcement and reward good behavior. These dogs will be especially open to praise, cuddles, and treats. With tricky cases, it may help to enroll your dog in puppy classes or to hire a trainer for the job. You will need to find a breeder who specializes in this mixed breed in particular. Always choose a highly reputable breeder. A good breeder will make an effort to research the health of both parent breeds and often go back several generations. This reduces the likelihood of genetic disorders trickling down to your pup. It may not always be easy to find these designer dogs in shelters. You may want to specifically search in shelters that rescue German Shepherds or Greyhounds. This particular mix may crop up here. These pups can be as tall as 28 inches and weigh as 95lbs. They are often classified as a large breed. These dogs have a life expectancy of 11 to 15 years. This is what you need to know about the German Shepherd Greyhound. Now you can determine if this pup is a good fit for your family. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. They also get along well with cats and other pets, especially if they have been socialized well from a young age. Owners of Shephounds know that they are not aggressive or hyper pooches. Instead, they are always easygoing and friendly. And they always enjoy making friends with new people. The dogs are also friendly to strangers. When they meet unfamiliar people, their first reaction is one of curiosity rather than protection. They are the kind that would meet your guests and find a safe place to stay while you chat with your guests. It is one of the best designer dogs since he is not an unruly or an off-character dog. Although Shephounds may seem a bit reserved at first, they normally get along with other dogs within a short period of time. As such, the German Greyhound is a friendly dog that makes a great family pet. When it comes to barking, both Greyhounds and German Shepherds tend to be very vocal and can howl or bark frequently. Want to train your dog without spending hundreds of dollars? Click Here to check out the brain training for Dogs course now! Training A German Shepherd Greyhound Mix The Greyhound Shepherd is trainable if you are ready to dedicate at least 30 minutes each day in training your puppy. They are not particularly easy to train, but they are also not so challenging. They are generally somewhere in between. GSDs are intelligent and easy to train. Greyhounds, on the other hand, tend to be stubborn and can be difficult to train. Therefore, you should start housetraining your Shephound as soon as you bring them home. You should actually dedicate some time to housetrain them each day. Training your German Greyhound early will help prevent behavioral issues from developing in your pup. With patience and consistency, you can successfully train your Greyhound Mixed with German Shepherd. But if you are not confident enough, you can always seek professional advice and training. A good dog trainer can successfully train your dog so you end up with a well-behaved family pet. Exercise Needs It is difficult to know how much each German Greyhound will require. Generally, the German Shepherd requires more exercise than the Greyhound. A German Shepherd needs one to two hours of daily exercise while a Greyhound will do fine with a minute walk each day. Your German Greyhound will most likely be somewhere in the middle. However, both parent breeds require more exercise than smaller dogs. Be sure to provide your Greyhound Shepherd with enough room to play and run around. Also, take your pooch on a walk once or twice each day for at least 30 minutes. Since the German Shepherd parent is intelligent, you also want to provide your Greyhound Shepherd with interactive dog toys to help keep him occupied and mentally stimulated. In order to know the grooming needs of German Shepherd Greyhound mixes, we need to study the grooming requirements of each parent breed. A German Shepherd should be brushed after every one or two days. Since their coat has a soft undercoat and a coarse outer coat, they shed all-year-round and they also blow their coat twice per year. A simple rundown with a piece of cloth at least once a week should be enough for these pups. Both Greyhounds and German Shepherds need a bath at least once a month. Apart from brushing and bathing, you should trim their nails from time to time to prevent them from splitting. Also, check and clean their ears regularly for dirt or wax buildup to prevent infections. Regular tooth brushing is also essential for your Greyhound German Shepherd Mix. This breed comes in a variety of colors, and while these dogs always look like a mixture of a Greyhound and a German Shepherd, you never know which look will be dominant. As is the case with their parents, this is a medium to large-sized dog , with a greater chance of being large. While Greyhounds normally have a shorter coat of hair, you will notice that the coat on this breed will more resemble the medium-length coarseness of the Shepherd. Because of this, your Greyhound German requires more hygienic maintenance than a Greyhound. Regular brushing and bathing is recommended with this breed. Like both parent breeds, this is an active dog that is athletically built. When you decide to take this pet into your life, you are also deciding to play that much more! When playing, this breed loves to get rowdy! They may seem disinterested in people at first, but once you have their trust, you have a play partner for life. Greyhound parents have a long history. While many people associate greyhounds with the racetrack, those who study history know them from the distant past. The earliest signs of Greyhounds come from ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics; the earliest ones are purported to be as old as 8, years. Greyhounds are visible with famous Egyptian figures such as Cleopatra and King Tutankhamen. In fact, the Greyhound was so highly revered they were seen as gods that the only death more important in a family was that of a son, and to kill a Greyhound meant being sentenced to death. Esteemed Grecians who visited Egypt were able to bring a few dogs back to Greece. The Greyhound became a worldly dog during the Roman Empire, when the Romans, who brought their Greyhounds everywhere, took them to Britain and Ireland. Eventually, from Europe, they made their way to America. No one is sure about the origin of the name. German Shepherd genetics make them super versatile. After 7, years of the Greyhound, the German Shepherd was born. One look at the name, and you can take a pretty good guess at where most people think it originated. They first appeared in after decades of Europeans attempting to standardize breeds. Their name is quite literal: Bred by shepherds in Germany, these dogs were meant to make life easier for the German farmer. These dogs were bred to be all the things that we think of German Shepherds now: smart, strong, and loyal, with a great sense of smell. While early breeders had success, results still varied from one location to the next, most notably in appearance. In , the Phylax Society was formed to help the standardization process, but in-fighting over whether the dog should be cute or hard working led to the demise of this group after only three years of operation. Fortunately, this inspired many to attempt to breed their own version of the Shepherd. This leads us to , when an ex-member of the Phylax Society, Max Von Stephanitz, attended a dog show and had a similar reaction that we all do when we see a dog, which was the need to go give it a hug. In his case, it ended up being a historic moment, as the dog he laid his eyes on was a Shepherd named Hektor, whom he immediately purchased. The rest, as they bark, is history. Well, not quite — there was a bump in the road for the name of the dog in the s and 40s. They changed the name of the breed to the Alsatian Wolf Dog, which was then adopted by other Kennel Clubs around the world. In the 70s, the breed was once again officially recognized as the German Shepherd While the German Shepherd is a wonderful family dog, it is still primarily used as a working dog by police forces, military, and other groups. Mixing the purebred parents has its benefits. This lovely hybrid has the perfect combination of ideal dog traits. They are built to be loyal, caring, affectionate, and cuddly. When you want to spend the day in bed, they will be the first to snuggle in next to you. The Shepherd Hound loves to cuddle and can be every bit as lazy as the laziest fluff balls on the planet. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, each breed wil offer a friendly and sweet companion to any other fur babies you have in your home. GSD-Greyhound mix puppies can inherit either of the two coat types and so their appearance will greatly depend on which parent they take after. Apart from length and texture, the coat color could also be one of a great number of possibilities. Given all these possibilities, German Shepherd-Greyhound crosses tend to look vastly different from one another. Typically, all they need is a weekly rubdown using a hound glove or a damp cloth. In contrast, those that take their coats after their German Shepherd side have double coats that shed steadily throughout the year and then more heavily twice a year. GSDs need to be brushed at least once a week, but more frequently during the shedding season. As for the rest of their grooming requirements, a Greyhound-German Shepherd mix will need regular bathing and frequent tooth brushing. Strength Even though Greyhounds are not particularly known for its strength, its offspring with a GSD will undoubtedly be a strong dog. This is not just because of its size but also because it can take its strength after its German Shepherd parent. Additionally, its size alone can make it capable of developing great strength. GSD-Greyhound crosses are expected to run somewhere between those speeds. Exercise Requirement Because German Shepherds are incredibly energetic and Greyhounds even more so, you should be ready to give the Greyhound GSD mix plenty of opportunities to exercise. Ideally, they would get at least an hour of physical exercise per day apart from having access to ample space where they can run and play independently. Apart from physical exercise, the GSD-Greyhound cross needs opportunities to use their mental faculties so that they stay on their best behavior. They need toys and activities that stimulate their brains. Generally, this need can be met through regular training exercises. Nevertheless, what they lack in intelligence, they make up for in their eagerness to please their humans. The trainability of a Greyhound German Shepherd mix will depend on which parent they take after. Although the intellect of GSD-Greyhound mixes can vary greatly, you can at least expect them to be easily housetrained and learn basic obedience with ease. Temperament German Shepherd-Greyhound crosses are confident and courageous dogs. With proper training and socialization, they can be excellent family dogs. However, because of the prey drive they might inherit from their Greyhound parent, they might need extra training and supervision if they need to share a home with smaller animals. Additionally, Greyhound-GSDs are generally even-tempered and they are known to be gentle with their family members. Health German Shepherd-Greyhound mixes are generally healthy, although they are susceptible to life-threatening bloat. Owners of this crossbreed should talk to a vet about how to avoid this condition. Additionally, hip and elbow dysplasia are conditions that the German Shepherd-Greyhound cross can inherit from their GSD parent. From the Greyhound side, the most serious health concern is a genetic condition called Greyhound Polyneuropathy. This is a progressive neurological disorder that severely affects their muscles. Lifespan A Greyhound-German Shepherd mix can be expected to live between 10 and 14 years. Like all other dogs, they can live beyond the life expectancy of their parents when they are given a balanced, high-quality diet. Ample exercise, proper hygiene, and regular vet examinations will further enable them to lead long and happy lives. By enrolling in this program, dogs that are not eligible for purebred registration and are disqualified from conformation events can participate in many other AKC events. These include canine sports like Agility , Flyball , and Diving Dogs. The GSD Greyhound mix is not very common. So, professional breeders do not have enough financial incentive to propagate this cross. Final Thoughts A Greyhound German Shepherd mix is undeniably a beautiful dog with a noble quality and a pleasing personality. Nevertheless, it is a large dog with boundless energy. Here are nine health problems common to a German Shepherd Mix Greyhound: 1. Cherry eye Unlike us humans, our dogs have 3 instead of 2 eyelids and under that third eyelid is the nictitans gland. Though this condition does not require an emergency trip to the vet, if not addressed, a prolapsed nictitans gland reduces tear production and dry eyes. Severe cases can cause blindness. Epilepsy This is a neurological problem wherein the exact cause is hard to identify. There is no cure, instead, medications and a change to a vet-prescribed diet can help reduce the frequency and severity of the seizures. Skin infections Skin problems arising from ticks , fleas, food, or a sudden change in temperature may cause some dogs to suffer from skin allergies. The symptoms are itching, reddening of the skin, or hair loss. Hip dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a developmental condition that results from a hip deformity. Blame it on genetics, big dogs such as a German Shepherd is susceptible to this condition. One of the causes is playing around after eating a large amount of food. This requires an emergency trip to the vet. If not, a dog can die from a bloated stomach. Canine degenerative myelopathy Canine degenerative myelopathy is a disease that is caused by the breaking down of white matter in the spinal cord. This results in weakness and eventually paralysis. It commonly affects older dogs. The first few symptoms are wobbling and pain while getting up. Osteosarcoma Osteosarcoma in dogs is a very painful bone tumor in dogs. It is more commonly found among larger dog breeds rather than small dog breeds. Elbow dysplasia This disease is also a developmental abnormality where the three bones in the elbow joint fail to fit together. This is more common among larger dog breeds. Cataract Aside from age, canine cataracts can also be caused by an eye lens disease, diabetes, or nutritional deficiency. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix lifespan If you provide your German Shepherd Greyhound Mix with proper nutrition, exercise, and regular trips to the vet for wellness exams, you can enjoy their company and companionship for an average of 9 to 14 years. You may also want to attend dog shows because in almost all cases, dog handlers can introduce you to other German Shepherd Mix breeders. Keep in mind that when you are dealing with German Shepherd Greyhound Mix breeders, always expect the breeder to show you the mother with her puppies. You should also expect the breeders to give you an insurance document. This way, in case the puppy gets sick within a certain timeframe, you will get a puppy replacement or the breeder will be the one to shoulder the treatment expenses. Generally speaking, male puppies are more active, playful, and territorial. Plus, male dogs tend to urine mark more often than female dogs. On the one hand, a female Greyhound German Shepherd Mix puppy will begin to go into heat by around 6 months of age. This equates to more work because of bloodstains around the house. Regardless of your choice, your German Shepherd Greyhound Mix puppy should have received two vaccinations, been dewormed, and microchipped before you bring him or her home. There may be crossbred puppies that are sold at a more affordable price range. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix puppies for sale As mentioned earlier, it is not easy to look for Greyhound Shepherd puppies. Instead, we will provide you with a list of trusted breeders of German Shepherds and Greyhounds. These breeders may offer you referrals to those who crossbreed these two purebred dogs. Greyhound Friends for Life greyhoundfriendsforlife. They were able to find a loving home for a 5-month-old Greyhound Shepherd puppy. You can get in touch with them and find out if they still have Greyhound mixed-dog breeds up for adoption. Lancaster Puppies lancasterpuppies. We do not guarantee you that there is a German Shepherd Greyhound Mix but you can check their website from time to time. KraftwerkK9 kraftwerkk9. Having been in the business for a long period, they might give you referrals to where you can find rare Greyhound Shepherd puppies for sale. They have a list of available mixed dogs for adoption. To adopt, fill out the adoption form and in three days, an adoption counselor will get in touch with you. You can also visit the Petfinder petfinder. Greyhound Pets, Inc greyhoundpetsinc. If your application is approved, a staff member will schedule a home visit to check if you are qualified to adopt a dog. Contact them and see if they have available German Shepherd Greyhound Mix up for adoption. As we have established, this crossbreed is a mix between a German Shepherd and a Greyhound. They are both large breeds of dog, so as you would expect, the result of this cross-breeding is also a big dog. These terms are used interchangeably to describe this crossbreed. As these dogs are a mix, no two puppies will be the same. This is because it is impossible to know what personality traits and characteristics will be taken from each breed, making every dog different. Despite this, there are a few things that you can expect from this crossbreed. The main one being its size. You can generally determine the size that a litter of puppies will grow to by looking at the parents. As both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are large breed dogs, you can rest assured that the puppies will also be large. You can also expect them to be muscular, affectionate, and loyal. Is this the right mixed breed for You? Before you welcome any dog into your home, you need to decide if this is the right breed for you. Here are some of the key things that you need to consider before making that decision: Time One of the most important things that you need to consider before buying a Shephound, or any dog for that matter, is if you have the time to dedicate to this dog. Dogs are hard work, and they require a lot of time and effort if you want them to be well-behaved and loyal. This is especially important with Shephounds as both the Greyhound and German Shepherd breeds can be nervous at times. A lot of this is down to the fact that both breeds have been treated badly historically. A lot of Greyhounds are traumatized from a history of being forced to race against their will, and because of this, it can take a lot of time for these dogs to adjust to being family pets. Likewise, a lot of German Shepherds have lived their lives as working dogs, so it can take a little while for them to adjust to being pets too. You should bear this in mind when buying a Shephound. Space Another major thing that you need to consider before bringing a Shephound into your home is whether, or not, you have the space for a dog of this size. While they may be small when they are puppies, these puppies quickly grow into large dogs, so it is very important that you have enough space in your home for them. Nothing can prepare you for quite how big these dogs are, and as they grow in your home, they can quickly shrink your house. But, these dogs are large and heavy, so they take up a lot of space. If you only have a small house, or you have a large but busy house, then you might want to consider if you have the physical space to give to this dog before bringing one home. Professional Training Finally, you need to consider your provisions for giving this breed professional dog training. Both Greyhounds and German Shepherds are highly intelligent dogs, so they will require training. Both Greyhounds and German Shepherds often have a very high prey drive , and this can make them very difficult to control when you are out walking them. This can be very difficult to do, which is why you should ensure that you have access to a professional trainer to help you. But, as both Greyhounds and German Shepherds are breeds that have existed for centuries, there are lots of facts that we know about these dogs. Without a doubt, German Shepherds are one of the most striking dog breeds in the world. With just a single look, you can easily identify one of these breeds by their classic black and tan markings, wonderful gait, and simply breathtaking look. They are famous for being one of the most loyal dog breeds to exist and are also well-known for being fiercely protective of their owner and their pack. These dogs absolutely adore being outdoors, and this is one of the main reasons why they make such wonderful herding dogs. This is, after all, where their name comes from. Instead, they are better known for being used as working dogs in the military, police , and even as support dogs for people who are blind or living with other disabilities. The main reason why these dogs are so commonly used as working dogs is that they are so easy to train. German Shepherds are undoubtedly one of the most intelligent breeds on the planet. Anyone who has ever owned a German Shepherd will tell you that this breed can learn a trick after only one or two goes, they simply are that smart. They are affectionate, loyal, and kind. They really do make the perfect companion, and you know that you are never alone as long as you have a German Shepherd by your side. These dogs are energetic and healthy, and absolutely wonderful with children and other pets. This is why they are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world. As we mentioned earlier, there are a lot of similarities between these two breeds, and this is why this crossbreed works so well. Just like German Shepherds, Greyhounds are also a large breed of dog. In terms of height, they are very similar, but Greyhounds are a lot thinner than German Shepherds. As Greyhounds were bred to run, they are extremely skinny, to the point where you can often see their ribs. While German Shepherd dogs are bred to be a lot bulkier. Yes, Greyhounds do look very slim, but this is because they carry absolutely zero body fat. Just by looking at a Greyhound, you can see how muscular they are, and this is partly aided by the fact that they have a very short coat. Greyhounds are most famous for being fast. These dogs have been racing dogs, and unfortunately, this practice still goes on today. Due to the shape of their body, Greyhounds are able to reach speeds of up to 45 miles per hour, which is why they have been used in racing. But traditionally, Greyhounds were bred as hunting dogs with the ability to hunt foxes, rabbits, and even deer. They are unbelievably calm, and will spend a lot of their time sleeping. Just like German Shepherds, Greyhounds are incredibly loving, and there is nothing that this breed likes more than cuddling up to their owner and giving them lots of wet kisses. While they will be loving to all members of their pack, Greyhounds tend to choose one member to be their person, and if that person is you then you are truly blessed. They are incredibly smart, and as long as they are trained, then these dogs will not become aggressive. This is why they make such wonderful pets. Key Characteristics of the German Shepherd Greyhound Mix Shephound We have looked at these breeds independently, but it is time that we look at them together. Every Shephound is different as it is a crossbreed, however, there are some key characteristics that you can expect. One is the fact that your puppy is going to have a lot of growing to do. Both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are breeds that transform a lot during the first 6 months of their life. So, this makes it difficult to tell what their coat is going to look like when they grow up. It is also partly because these two breeds have very different coats. German Shepherds have incredibly thick fur, with multiple different layers, while Greyhounds have very thin coats which help make them more aerodynamic. Due to this, it is impossible to tell exactly what your Shephounds coat is going to be. If your Shephound is a mixture of a short coat German Shepherd and a Greyhound, then you can expect the fur to be mid-way between the two. However, if your Shephound is part long-hair German Shepherd, then there is no knowing just how thick their coat will be. Gentle Something that you can almost guarantee from a Shephound is that they are going to be gentle. Both German Shepherds and Greyhounds are docile breeds, and they are well-known for being gentle around their owners. So, this is something that you can expect from a Shephound. But, these dogs will have moments of madness. While these dogs will be calm and gentle most of the time, there will be periods where they will be hyper. When this happens, it is important to remember that Shephounds are big dogs, and they are incredibly strong. Loyal But there is one thing which you can definitely guarantee from a Shephound, and it is their undying loyalty. So, whether you are looking for a Shephound as a guard dog or a companion, you can always trust your Shephound to be by your side. However, if you are looking for a dog to use as a guard dog, then a Shephound might not be the best choice. You would be much better off choosing a pedigree German Shepherd. But if you want a dog that has your back until the end, then a Shephound is absolutely perfect. All dogs suffer from health conditions, and the majority of breeds will have genetic predispositions to certain issues. Joint Problems The most prevalent potential health condition that your Shephound might suffer from is joint problems. In particular, hip and elbow dysplasia. This is a genetic condition where there is a deformity in the hip or the elbow, which can lead to limited mobility and arthritis as your dog ages. This is a common health issue for both German Shepherds and Greyhounds, which is why this is the condition that your dog is most likely to suffer from. In fact, this is a condition that most large dogs, and even large cats, suffer with. This condition is a degenerative disease, so the earlier that you pick up on it, the better. That way, you can treat it early and prevent your Shephound from suffering too greatly with this condition. Skin Conditions Another part of the body that both Greyhounds and German Shepherds often suffer with is their skin. Both breeds are genetically predisposed to skin conditions, so there is a fair chance that your Shephound could suffer from this too. In particular, German Shepherds are prone to allergies, which can lead to a lot of scratching and discomfort. Cherry Eye Something else that these breeds are often prone to suffering with is cherry eye. This condition displays itself as a red lump on the third eyelid. This red lump is actually an enlarged and swollen gland that has become infected due to allergies. All dogs are at risk of experiencing this, and it is a very common condition. So, just be prepared that you might have to go to your vet to get conditions like this treated if you get a German Shepherd Greyhound mix. Epilepsy The final condition that your Shephound might be prone to is epilepsy. This is a condition that a lot of Greyhounds develop, so there is a small chance that your Shephound may also suffer from this. Epilepsy affects dogs similarly to how it affects humans, so if your Greyhound Shepherd develops this condition, then they may experience seizures. Dogs can experience seizures with lots of different causes behind it. Some dogs will fit if they become too hot, or dehydrated. But, these seizures could be caused by a health condition such as epilepsy or diabetes. So, you should be prepared that this condition could also develop in your Shephound. If your German Shepherd Greyhound mix does begin to experience seizures, then you should seek veterinary advice immediately. German Shepherd Greyhound Mix Temperament One of the biggest influences on whether you will choose a dog breed, or not, is temperament. Everybody wants their dog to have a good temperament, and for their dog to be loving. This is why a lot of people purchase dogs based on the temperament of that breed. So what is the Shephound temperament like? As we have said, Greyhound Shepherds are incredibly loving dogs, and above all else, they are loyal. Fiercely loyal, in fact. Generally, these dogs have a calm temperament, and they are usually very gentle. Especially when they are around children and small animals. But, for the most part, these dogs are lovely. Walk them regularly, and train them well when they are young, and you will have a fiercely loyal companion for the rest of their life. Ability to Train Speaking of training, you may also be wondering how easy it is to train a German Shepherd Greyhound Mix. Well, as you might expect, it is usually very easy to train a Shephound. These dogs are incredibly intelligent, and because of this, they can often pick up tricks incredibly quickly. A lot of people are surprised at how quickly Shephounds can learn commands, and people are also often surprised at how early in their lives these dogs will begin learning. From as early as 8 weeks old, a German Shepherd Greyhound mix will begin listening to their owner and learning commands. So start early with training, and you will have a very well-behaved dog. Nutritional Requirements Shephounds are very large dogs, so they do have some nutritional requirements. You should avoid feeding them grains as this can lead to GDV a bloating condition , instead you should feed them lots of protein. Make sure their diet is well-balanced with protein, vitamins, minerals, and also high in calories. Exercise Requirements The amount of exercise that your German Shepherd Greyhound mix needs will differ depending on your specific dog. Greyhounds only need around 30 minutes of exercise a day, whereas German Shepherds can need up to 2 h ours. Find a happy medium and go with the amount of exercise that suits your dog. Cost These dogs are expensive. Shephounds are also very rare, so you should expect to spend anywhere in this region for a healthy German Shepherd Greyhound mix. Summary In short, this has been a complete guide to one of the most loving and loyal dog crossbreeds on the planet, the German Shepherd Greyhound mix. So, if you are considering this breed, read this guide before you buy.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. As far as their height is concerned, most labs will reach their adult height of 22 to 25 inches 56 to .They will also reach their optimal weight of 64 to 80 pounds 29 to 36 kg by their 15th month. Labrador Retrievers are very food motivated, more so than quite a few other pups. Keeping your pup properly nourished is vital but letting your dog get fluffy is obviously ill-advised. With lots of myths and misconceptions flying around the place, many people believe that neutering or spaying your lab puppy too early will slow down its growth. There are some minor changes here and there, depending on the study, but nothing too significant. How big is the pup compared to the rest of its litter? The average time it takes for a Labrador Retriever to reach its maximum height is about 11 months or less than a year. Some puppies take a bit longer and others do it even sooner. A few weeks of variation are to be expected as long as your vet is certain your pup is healthy. As for the weight, this reaches its potential a bit later — around the 15th month. How can you tell how big a Lab puppy will get? It will also likely have a pretty dominant personality and require an experienced owner. How much do Lab puppies grow each week? In terms of weight, a 3 pound 1. From there, the growth will gradually slow down until the puppy reaches its maximum height around the month mark and its optimal weight around the 15th month. How big is an 8 week old Labrador? How big exactly is such a pup, however? The average 8 week old Labrador should be somewhere between 8 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder 20 to 30 cm with females being an inch or so shorter. As for their weight, that can vary between 10 to 14 pounds 4. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. As a dedicated Labrador parent, one of your primary responsibilities is ensuring your pup remains healthy and achieves all growth milestones based on his age. However, some of the most overwhelming factors to crack through are size and weight. So, is your Lab puppy too small for his age? Your Lab puppy might be too small if it weighs less than 12 lbs 5. Lab puppies generally weigh about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. If your puppy weighs a lot less than that, he may be too small for his age. If you're worried that your pup might be too small for his age, you're in the right place. In this article, I'll outline Lab puppies' size and weight facts to help you understand where your young canine friend stands. Keep reading! In this article How Much a Lab Puppy Should Weigh This is one of the most common concerns and one of the most challenging to address directly. This is because a puppy's weight and size may differ based on his gender, genetic composition, or underlying conditions. However, there's a trick that may help you determine your pup's weight range. In most cases, average puppies add about 2 lbs 1 kg with every week of growth. And just like the weight, Lab puppies have different sizes. You may notice a huge size variance in a litter of Lab puppies. Some may appear too big or too small for their age. Below are 3 factors that can affect a Lab puppy's size and weight. Genetic May Affect Size A canine's size is partially genetic. Therefore, a Lab puppy born of small parents may inherit the genes and appear smaller for his age. However, this isn't always the case because some small-parents puppies sometimes grow into huge dogs. So, it's possible to note a considerable size variance on puppies from the same litter. Diet Greatly Influences Weight A puppy's diet also has a lot to do with his size and weight. Poorly fed puppies may fail to grow properly. Thus they may be low in weight and small in size. When feeding puppies, it isn't always about the amount of food the pup consumes but rather the nutritional value. So, to be on the safe side, it's advisable to consult your vet on the right foods for your pup based on his age. Health Problems Can Inhibit Growth Puppies that have been ill or have underlying conditions may portray slow growth. Their size and weight may be small compared to healthy pups within the same age limit. However, you shouldn't worry about this because such puppies often catch up later after recovery. Note that this chart only gives a weight limit, and it doesn't mean your puppy should weigh precisely that. It's only meant to help you protect your pup's weight and easily point out when he's seriously under or overweight. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Labrador puppy weight. It can be hard to know what the right weight is for your specific pup. An American Lab is likely to weigh less than an English Lab in general, but not always! How much do Labs weigh in general? Male Labradors weigh between 60lbs and 80lbs, while females weigh in at between 55lbs and 75lbs. But many healthy Labradors fall outside these averages. As you can see, there is quite a range! Labrador Puppy Weight Lots of our readers want to know how much should my Labrador weigh at this age or that age. Labrador puppies are growing fast, and their weight is constantly changing. We used the data from our forum to create the Lab weight chart below. If you want a rough idea of how much your pup should weigh at different stages of their young life, just compare them to this chart and see how they match up. But remember, average Labrador weight is not totally straight forward… Average Labrador Weight Labradors come in a wide variety of sizes. So average Labrador Retriever weight figures can be misleading. As a very rough guide an adult female Labrador might weigh between 55 and 70lbs. An adult male Lab will weigh 65 — 80lbs. Female Lab weight will on average be lower than male Lab weight, but as you can see there is a considerable cross over. But Labradors also come in a couple of different types, and his type will have an impact upon his ideal Labrador weight. English Labs bred from show lines are likely to be at the upper end of the scale. You can expect English Lab weight to be around 60 — 70 lbs for a female and 70 — 80 lbs for a male. Some of our chunkier, show bred Labs can be a good twenty pounds or more heavier than their field bred cousins, without necessarily being overweight. Whereas the American Lab who is field bred is likely to be at the lower end of average. Volume for volume, muscle weighs more. So it is worth bearing in mind, that a very fit dog will have more muscle and may weigh more than an unfit dog of similar dimensions. Black Lab Weight In theory there should be no difference in weight between Labradors of different colors. Black Labrador weight for an English black Lab will probably be at the higher end of the range, for an American black Lab it will likely be lower. Black Labs are frequently found in both these categories, but some Lab colors differ. For example the chocolates. Chocolate Lab Weight Chocolate Labs are more likely to be show bred than field bred. English Labs weigh more than American Labs in general, and may therefore be at the higher end of average when it comes to weight. This is because yellow Labs are commonly found in both categories. White Labs are more likely to be English Labs, and will therefore probably be at the heavier end of the scale. Fox red Labs are normally American Labs, and will often be thinner in build and therefore lighter in weight. The way to effectively judge whether your Lab is at an ideal weight is not through the scales. It is by feel and appearance. You should not be able to see ribs, but if you press firmly along his sides you should just be able to feel your fingers bumping along them. But in most cases it really is not necessary to weigh your puppy every day, or even every week! Any more than you would weigh your three year old child on a daily or even weekly basis. There are however, some exceptions. Very thin puppies Occasionally we have people post up about puppies that are desperately underweight and clearly failing to thrive. Most of these comments come from people that have purchased puppies that are not ready to leave their mothers, and should not have been sold by the breeder. Some of these puppies are as young as three weeks old. If you have inadvertently been sucked into this horrible trade in underage puppies, do contact a vet for help with feeding your puppy, as a matter of urgency. If you are concerned that your puppy might be seriously underweight, again, your vet is the first port of call. As a very rough guide, many Labrador puppies will weigh around a kilo for every week of their lives. So you would expect a ten week puppy to weigh something in the region of ten kilos or around twenty-two pounds. A twenty percent variation around this would be fairly normal. If your puppy falls outside this variation he may still be perfectly healthy, but if you are inexperienced, a check with the vet is a good way to put your mind at rest. Should I Weigh My Dog? You may need to weigh your dog if he needs medical treatment. Determining the appropriate dose of some drugs requires that we know the exact weight of the patient. But in this case your veterinarian will probably do it for you at their check-ups and assessments. The main reasons to weigh a dog are loss or gain. Trying to put weight on a very thin puppy? You may want to check your progress with regular weigh-ins for a while to make sure they are sufficiently gaining weight. Trying to help your adult Labrador weight decrease? Checking their weight each week will help you to know that you are succeeding, along with visual checks. How to weigh a dog If you need to weigh a puppy, and he is small enough to hold in your arms, you can do this at home. Just weigh yourself on the bathroom scales without him, then weigh yourself again whilst holding the dog, and subtract the first weight from the second. This is accurate enough for most purposes. Larger dogs will need to be weighed on purpose built scales. Most vet surgeries have one in the waiting room, and some pet stores have them too. Really tiny dogs can be weighed accurately on a good sized set of kitchen scales. For once, this is a situation where appearances really do count. Try to get into the habit of looking at your dog objectively and of avoiding comparing with other dogs, many of whom will be overweight. You may find that some other dog owners will tell you your nice slim Labrador is actually too thin. This happens a lot, largely because people are simply getting used to so many dogs being overweight, including some of those receiving the highest accolades in our show rings. Again, if you are worried, check with your vet, but the chances are if someone is telling you this that actually your dog is healthy, and it is really their dog who is overweight. The Lab puppy weight chart shows you the average weight for male and female Labs every month from 2 months old, up until 12 months if you have a puppy Lab, check out our New Puppy Checklist to learn more about what to bring home for your first 24 hours and beyond. Doing so helps you and your veterinarian keep your puppy healthy. Are There Different Sizes of Labradors? Among the retriever breeds, the Labrador is one of the largest, where an adult male can top the scales at 80 pounds. Labrador Retrievers may differ in size due to individual variation and outside influences, such as the amount or type of food they eat, the amount or frequency of exercise they get, or underlying health conditions that may affect appetite or growth. But overall, a retriever should ideally hit a 5 out of 9 on the body condition score, regardless of the actual weight number on a scale. A healthy size Labrador has an evident abdominal tuck and observable waist, viewed from both the side and top of the dog. The AKC considers Lab puppies to be in adulthood when they reach 12 to 18 months of age, though there are outliers — those who grow faster or slower, reaching maturity either before 1 year old or not until 2 years old. Like other large dog breeds, Labs go through multiple stages of puppyhood until they reach adulthood. The average height for Labrador puppies is largely unknown due to insufficient data, but the average adult Labrador Retriever gets to be about inches tall at the shoulder. These numbers are contingent on the puppy receiving top-notch care, good nutrition, and appropriate levels of exercise. Different factors, such as health, breeding practices, and nutrition, may alter these estimated numbers. The below Labrador weight calculator can help you determine approximately how big your Labrador will be. But there are dogs who will fall outside of these parameters. The Waltham Petcare Science Institute offers puppy growth charts for veterinarians to use with their clients. You can also learn more about the ideal size and weight at different ages for different breeds with our Goldendoodle growth chart , a Golden Retriever size chart , Great Dane growth chart , or Chihuahua size chart. For that advice, consult your veterinarian.

Christina Tuesday 18th of April You say to expect to pay a lot for a well bred merle Frenchie from a reputable breeder but there is no such thing. If a breeder breeds Merle frenchies then that proves they are nor a reputable breeder, and it's not a well bred dog. It's not even a frenchie. The only way to get a Merle is to cross breed with a breed that naturally carries Merle Claire Johnson Sunday 28th of May Christina, these is no such thing as a well bred merle Frenchie. The terms are mutually exclusive. There are numerous health issues associated with this color. Do your research. This article even says that there's more health problems associated with Merle. So how is it a lie? Also please don't dilute the term gaslight. If you don't know what it means please don't use it. A purpose bred mutt is one thing. But cross breeding with a breed that already has substantial health issues to get a not naturally occurring colour associated with even more health issues does NOTHING to benefit the breed. It is irresponsible, has a hugely negative impact on the breeds longevity, and dilutes the breed so preservation is more of an issue. Buying Merle frenchies is is just paying way too much for a mutt, that's likely gonna have a rough life, and it supports backyard breeding which should be made illegal at this point. If you want a Merle dog, get a breed where Merle is naturally occurring. Christina Tuesday 18th of April Renee, if it's Merle, it's not a frenchie. Frenchies can't be Merle without crossbreeding. You esentially have a backyard bred mutt. There's no such thing as a well bred Merle frenchie. And no reputable breeder will breed designer colours not naturally occurring in the breed. I own 2 beautiful French Bulldog merles and they are healthy and sweet. I wasn't looking for a merle but based on their disposition and excellent health I couldn't go home with one. I am not breeding or showing but only loving them crazy. FrenchieWiki Community. Sundays Food For Dogs This is an air-dried food. It has the convenience of kibble just pour it in the bow but is much much healthier. There are a number of air-dried foods on the market. My dogs tested 3 of them. You can see the results of the air-dried food test here. We Feed Raw. This raw food for dogs comes delivered to your home is perfectly sized portions for your pup. They primarily source their ingredients from trusted U. These ingredients are sourced from New Zealand, where some of the highest-quality and most ethically raised venison and lamb can be found. For a limited time, when you buy one month you get a second month free. What are Merle French Bulldogs? Merle French Bulldogs are a color variation within the French Bulldog breed, characterized by a mottled or blotchy pattern on their coat. The merle gene causes variations in coat color and can result in unique patterns, such as blue, silver, or chocolate markings. Are Merle French Bulldogs rare? Yes, Merle French Bulldogs are considered rare due to the specific genetic combination required to produce the merle coat pattern. Can Merle French Bulldogs have blue eyes? Yes, some Merle French Bulldogs may have blue eyes. Blue eyes are a result of the merle gene interacting with other genetic factors. How can I find reputable Merle French Bulldog breeders? Look for breeders who prioritize the health and temperament of their dogs, perform health tests, and provide a clean and caring environment for their puppies. The registration of Merle French Bulldogs can vary depending on the kennel club and its policies. Some kennel clubs may allow registration of Merle French Bulldogs, while others may not recognize them due to concerns about health issues associated with the merle gene. The American Kennel club does not recognize frenchies with the merle pattern as an official French bulldogs, as it does not meet the breed standards. Is it necessary to feed Merle French Bulldogs a raw dog food diet? Merle French Bulldogs may be prone to certain health issues associated with the merle gene, such as deafness, eye abnormalities, and skin sensitivities. Responsible breeders conduct genetic health testing to minimize the risk of these conditions. Some kennel clubs may not allow Merle French Bulldogs to compete due to concerns about the genetic health issues associated with the merle gene. Check the competition guidelines for clarity. How should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy? Feeding your Merle French Bulldog puppy a balanced and nutritious diet is crucial for their overall health. Consider high-quality puppy dog food or a raw dog food diet or here are several Vet-Approved Homemade Puppy Food Recipes How is the merle color created in French Bulldogs? To create the merle color in a Frenchie, breeders usually crossbreed with a different breed, commonly merle chihuahuas, to get the gene they are looking for. This means that merle Frenchies may not be a pure breed Where did the merle gene originate? The merle gene is believed to have originated in certain herding breeds, such as Border Collies and Australian Shepherds. Over time, this gene has been introduced into other breeds through crossbreeding. In the case of French Bulldogs, the merle gene may have been introduced through intentional or unintentional crossbreeding with other breeds carrying the merle gene. What should I feed my Merle French Bulldog puppy? A raw dog food diet can be beneficial for your Merle French Bulldog puppy. A raw dog food diet typically consists of muscle meat often still on the bone , bones either whole or ground , organ meats such as livers and kidneys , raw eggs, vegetables like broccoli, spinach, and celery , apples or other fruit, and some dairy such as yogurt. What are some different color varieties of Merle French Bulldogs? Frenchies with a merle coat come in a range of colors including Blue Merle and Lilac Merle. The blue base coat color has more of a blue tint than a true blue color and is very unique against the darker patches of pigment. Lilac hue comes from a combination of the brown and blue coat colors. The blue coat is further diluted, creating a beautiful, unique coat with a slight lilac appearance What is a Harlequin Merle French Bulldog? A Harlequin Merle French Bulldog is a color variation that combines the harlequin and merle coat patterns. These dogs have a marbled or splotchy coat with larger patches of color and may exhibit variations in shades and markings. What is a Cryptic Merle French Bulldog? A Cryptic Merle French Bulldog, also known as a hidden merle or phantom merle, refers to a dog that carries the merle gene but does not display the typical merle coat pattern. These dogs may have a solid coat color, but they carry the potential to produce merle offspring when bred with another merle. Can White Merle French Bulldogs exist? No, White Merle French Bulldogs do not exist. The merle gene affects the distribution of pigment in the coat, resulting in variations of color and pattern, but it does not produce a completely white coat. Merle French Bulldogs may have white markings or patches in their coat, but they are not entirely white. What is a Tweed Merle French Bulldog? A Tweed Merle French Bulldog refers to a specific variation of the merle coat pattern that resembles a tweed fabric. Merles are primarily known for their unique markings, a genetic expression of the M-locus or Merle gene which causes random skin pigmentation and lightens their eye color. They come in a variety of colors and range in spectrums of white, grey and black, white and beige, dark brown, beige and white and mixes of greys and Beiges together. The lilac genetics are expressed in the flash of red in there light blue colored eyes and a combination of chocolate and blue base color in their coats. Black, tan and fawn make up the black Merle and they often have brown eyes or blue eyes. On occasion, a combination of both will express itself where you will see one brown eye and one blue eye or a streak of one color inside the other. Genetically they come from the black Merle whose color base has been diluted to create a blue hue. Health of Merle Bulldogs French Bulldogs like all other breeds have certain health risks. For a golden retriever it is hip displasia. For a french bulldog it is a vulnerable back that encourages good practices for their owners to have stairs in place always at sites where dogs should not be jumping from such as a high bed or couch. It has been rumored that Merle french bulldogs are less healthy than standard french bulldogs. This would only be true if poor breeding practices are exercised. That would be breeding one Merle dog to another. Common problems include blindness and deafness as well as chronic allergies, immune disorders, heart murmurs and hip dysplasia. A responsible breeder will tell you about this. Additionally to encourage better health throughout a dogs life Feeding your dog a raw diet and giving them NuVet supplements are required by our standards. In general a raw diet has been proven to lengthen life span. Also not spaying and neutering before the age of six and preserving hormones will encourage longer life. Merle is not a color, its a pattern. There are some patterns recreated by breeders that have become popular and also despised upon by other breeders. Merle French bulldogs are such dogs whose pattern has become very popular due to its rarity and the diversity of patterns. The gene alters the color of the dogs and creates patterns over patterns and this creates mottled patches in the colors of the litter. Also, the gene modifies the color of the eyes nose and the paw pads. Blue eyes are common in these dogs and also an odd colored set of eyes can also be present. No Merle dog will be the same as the patterns will always differ along with the color. There are three types of genes that the dog can carry. Breeders take advantage of the availability of French Bulldogs in up to 20 twenty different colors. They then create a rare, low maintenance dog. Merle is one of the most expensive colors of French bulldogs out there and one of the rarest. Merle French bulldogs are not pure breeds. The color is a mix of other patterns mixed together by careful selection and breeding. If the breeder messes up on the color combination, the puppies can come out unhealthy and weak with birth defects. No French bulldog has the merle gene and therefore, Merle French bulldogs are not purebred. Many dog breeds have this gene, however, Chihuahuas are used to introduce this gene in the French bulldog family. Some breeders can also crossbreed the puppies to create a purebred Merle French bulldog. The pattern depends on the gene dilution as there are variations in the pattern of these dogs. Blue, black, lavender are some of the colors which are diluted with the merle gene. These dogs are very rare and are sought out for all over the world. Sometimes just looking at pics online do not do them justice. See Chocolate Puppies! In order for your Frenchie to express chocolate on their coat they must inherit two copies of the gene. Chocolate is not a testable gene as of right now and the only way to know if your dog carries chocolate is to breed to chocolate frenchie or one who carries chocolate. Just as with the other color variations you can have brindling in the coat or solid. The gene that determines this is on the K-locus. If they inherit one or two copies of the brindle Kbr gene they will express brindling in their coat. If not copies of the brindling gene , then they will be solid. Chocolates may also have tan points which has to do with the A locus. If they inherit one or two copies of the tan points gene, At, they will express tan points. You can also have chocolate pied Frenchies which is located on the S-locus. The Frenchie must inherit two copies of the gene for the pied expression. We have not had a little chocolate Frenchie. Previous Chocolate French Bulldogs Oceana is chocolate brindle. One of our retired females. Beau Chocolate Male. Just look at that cute little white strip down his face! Fiona Chocolate Female! Color variations Blue merle French Bulldog Blue merle French Bulldogs are one of our most sought-after puppies of all the colors. They got their name after the blue patches on their light-colored coat, which are essentially grey with a bluish shine in the light. The shade of the grey parts may vary from very light to almost black, while their base color also ranges from a yellowish cream color to light grey. Lilac merle French Bulldog Lilac merle French Bulldogs are often mistaken for blue merle Frenchies, but they are much more unique and harder to come by. Lilac merle Frenchies have very light, almost ashy or silver colored patches on their light coat. To produce this rare and beautiful color, the parents have to carry the blue, chocolate and merle gene. Lilac merle French Bulldogs usually have light-colored eyes which are glowing red. Chocolate merle French Bulldog Chocolate merle French Bulldogs have dark brown mottled patches all over their light-colored bodies. Choco merle pups also have unique genetics so they are quite rare and hard to come by. Similarly to lilac Frenchies, they are the combination of blue and chocolate but their grey shade is more of a champagne color. Breeders have managed to mix in the merle gene as well producing the Isabella merle French Bulldog, but these dogs are extremely rare. Black merle French Bulldog Black merle French Bulldogs have black mottled patches often covering most of their bodies. Their base coat is also slightly darker than in other merle Frenchies, ranging from light grey to light brown. Fawn merle French Bulldog There are a number of different variations of fawn merle French Bulldogs, like blue fawn merle, lilac fawn merle or chocolate fawn merle. The dark patches these Frenchies have are less distinct looking than in other merles, as they are only a bit darker than their light fawn base color. One of these rare traits is their sparkling blue eyes. Since the merle gene affects the skin pigment as well, when a merle patch crosses the eye area the Frenchie will have bright forever blue eyes. Sometimes only one of the eyes will remain blue, which is a phenomenon called heterochromia. Because of how dominant the merle gene is, merle Frenchies should only be bred to a dog with a solid coat color. They are insanely affectionate making them the perfect companion dogs, they just want to spend every minute of their time with their owners. They are extremely friendly with kids and other animals too; they love basically anyone they meet! Thanks to their easy-going nature, a Merle Frenchie will adapt to your lifestyle very quickly no matter where you live. As you might expect, colors that are considered common for the breed have the lowest prices, while colors which are more unique and harder to produce are more expensive as well. When it comes to Merle French Bulldogs, they are already in a higher price range, but depending on the color variation their prices may further vary a lot. Permanent blue eyes also push the prices up a bit: we charge USD per blue eye. In fact, the regular Frenchies are crossed with official merle breeds like the Chihuahua, with the outcome being a litter of mostly merle puppies. It can often develop blue eyes because of either the M-locus gene or a low melanin level. Pied Merle This dog has blue and gray patches over a white coat. Black Merle This dog displays dark fur over a base coat ranging from light grey to brown and black mottling. Brindle Merle The brindle merle Frenchie has a series of patterns consisting of tan and merle spots. Red Merle One of the common patterns, the coat has a slightly pink tone covered with merle streaks. Tan Merle These dogs have a tan coat, with brown spots all over, though some have grey spots instead. Other characteristic features include pink or light brown noses and pale paw pads. Brown Merle The brown merle is very similar to the red merle, just with a darker tone. White Merle Often confused with the pied merle, these Frenchies have black and tan patches over a white coat. Black and Tan Merle These Bulldogs have black patches along with a merle pattern over a tan coat. Harlequin Merle When a French Bulldog inherits both the harlequin and merle genes, they develop this pattern. Tri Merle These dogs have a blue and fawn coat, with black patches all over. Spotted When a merle pattern on a French Bulldog is broken down into spots, it appears like this. More Merle French Bulldogs.

We can proudly boast that all of our dogs and puppies come from only the very best and proven bloodlines in the world. Each one of our males and females is health tested, titled, and has at least one parent that has earned a VA1 title Excellent Select, 1st place. The competition for VA is fierce and very few dogs attain this momentous achievement. Our Dogs Titles: So, what does all of this mean and why should it matter to a pet buyer? Working titles focus on the structural soundness and ability to demonstrate trainability and reliability in obedience, but more importantly, temperament is evaluated. Show titles provide a valuable tool for ensuring that the breed standard is followed. This is an in-depth evaluation that records the qualities and shortcomings of the dog. The temperament, conformation, courage, and function are reported. Temperament and character, along with physical and mental soundness play an enormous role in selectively choosing which dogs are breeding prospects. The German Shepherd is an athletic, loyal, self-assured, attentive, and intelligent dog. This applies to both competition dogs and family pets. Purchasing a puppy from titled parents ensures that the dogs being bred have passed vigorous testing and several judges along the way oversaw the process. Following this standard eliminates a biased breeder from breeding indiscriminately and encourages the goal to be producing the best puppies possible. At Centennial German Shepherds, meticulous planning and an abundance of thought go into producing every litter of puppies. Striving for excellence gives breeders credibility and provides the potential buyer with absolute assurance that their puppy is a product of deliberate and quality mating. Capo and our beautiful granddaughter, Shannon The meaning of Our New Kennel Name After working, showing, and breeding German Shepherds for over 25 years, we decided it was time to create a new kennel name and logo to signify our presence in Colorado the Centennial State combined with our Italian and Estonian foundation dogs. Centennial GSD chose to use the head of our gorgeous female Gucci and combine the American and Italian flags across her face to signify our team concept. Additionally, we blended the American and Estonian flags across our impressive male import's face to represent the Margman presence at Centennial. Our puppies are raised inside of our home where we can interact with them from birth until the day they leave with their new families. We assess them, take notes, photos, and videos, and create a detailed log about each puppy so that we can explain their individual characteristics and personalities as clearly as possible to anyone who is inquiring. We evaluate each puppy's growth and development, along with littermate interactions and responses to "daily life" situations on a full-time basis. Once the puppies are mobile, they are introduced to toys and small obstacles which are intended to spark curiosity and promote problem-solving and confidence. We understand that visiting the puppies or looking at photos is difficult, as both are only small snapshots of time in the rapidly changing life of a growing puppy. Visitors might experience the litter just before or after a nap, eating, playing, or any other event or activity that may skew the true personality of the puppy, and relying on a few minutes or even hours to make a decision can be overwhelming. For these reasons, frequent communication with prospective families from birth to placement is crucial. By clearly conveying expectations, we are able to assist in the selection process to ensure happiness and success for both the puppy and the individual families welcoming the youngster into their new home. Centennial GSD works hard at producing the finest German Shepherd Dogs through methodically and meticulously scrutinizing compatible bloodlines and pedigrees to ensure each breeding results in producing the best litter of puppies possible. Combining specific lines or avoiding lines that have genetic faults is important as we always have the betterment of the breed in mind. This is done by carefully choosing a mating pair that compliment one another by enhancing positive qualities and making an effort to reduce any faults known in one or both bloodlines. Our foundation dogs and the dogs we use for breeding trace back to the best Italian, Estonian, and German bloodlines. We seek out dogs with a geographically diverse gene pool while also studying line breeding to keep the integrity of the breed intact. By doing this, we reduce the risks associated with more closely related dogs. Our breeding dogs have certified hips and elbows, have been tested for DM, and are titled; ensuring that they are healthy both physically and mentally. None of the dogs in our breeding program and many generations back have joint or known hereditary issues and all of the dogs possess stable and wonderful temperaments. At Centennial quality over quantity always comes first. We stay in touch with our families after the sale of our German Shepherd puppies, whether it be for help with a question or just a friendly email to check-in. I sold several puppies almost two decades ago both out of state and overseas and have been fortunate enough to form beautiful friendships with many of those people that will last a lifetime. We take pride in our Colorado German Shepherds. Our goal is to produce healthy and beautiful German Shepherd puppies that win in the show ring, excel as working dogs, succeed as therapy or service dogs, and most importantly, flourish as loving family companions and guardians. I traveled to Estonia to pick up my female puppy Briatore Nordica, and while I was there I met another puppy her half-brother named Margman Othello. He was a gorgeous and friendly 7 month old sable youngster. Both puppies shared the same father, the magnificent multiple VA Margman Torsten. I was immediately smitten and consequently brought both back with me to Colorado. I also had the honor and pleasure of hosting Torsten, his owner, and his breeder at my home when they traveled to the United States for the first time after a Sieger Show. A few years later I imported another Margman female black and red who was bred to Torsten. Her puppies were wonderful and she enjoyed a nice life in Colorado. By this time Margman had become a household name and known for quality German Shepherds around the world. We had lovely puppies; a mix of sable and black and red, both long and short coats. It was then that I began my great love for the long haired German Shepherd. Rio was phenomenal in the show ring, he earned his SchH3 title, placed V1, and produced puppies that achieved the same and other working titles. He was a gentleman in the house and had a flawless character which he passed down to his puppies time and time again. His puppies excelled as therapy dogs, service dogs, and as healthy and loving family dogs. Rio was intelligent, possessed a solid temperament, and was stunning to look at. My beloved Rio was by far one of the best dogs I have ever had the privilege of owning and set the bar high for our future dogs. Now, many years later, I have once again imported a Margman dog; an impressive male to show, breed, and enjoy as a perfect companion dog. We look forward to combining the lines again and producing the best puppies possible. Expanding the gene pool while still staying true to the standard is our goal with future litters. Margman Dacapo is magnificent; an absolute dream dog. In we imported our first Margman long coat, a deeply pigmented black and red girl. Margit has bettered the breed by thinking outside of the box. Her sable and black dogs are the absolute best and she has also produced top long coats along with her phenomenal black and red dogs. She has combined strong females with the correct stud dogs to produce some of the best puppies in the world. She is devoted to her dogs and the future of the German Shepherd Dog. Her dedication is obvious, and the result has been and remains to be dogs that possess beauty, working ability, and outstanding character. Her vision is clear, her dedication is steadfast, and he loves the dogs so her goals are always set with the future in mind. We are a family-owned, professional German shepherd breeder located in beautiful Larkspur, Colorado. Our dogs in our breeding program come with clear-in-the head character, safe nature, and stable nerves. We welcome your visit to our kennels in Douglas County, Colorado. We believe in our German shepherd puppies breeding program, you should too! Our kennels in Larkspur, Colorado, we breed German Shepherd Puppies with world-class parents, top working, show line pedigrees. Confident, self-assured puppies bred for families. We are confident in our purebred German Shepherd puppies; you will be too. Click Here Working line German Shepherds Our working German Shepherds with full working titles are bred with focus and the ability to work, eagerness to learn and accomplish the given role they were originally bred for. Clear in the head, safe nature, and stable nerves to function in any environment with courage, intelligent and stability to exceed your expectations. The most sought after world-class and world champion pedigrees in the world! This is the best puppies you can get, unmatched in every aspect of the top working show line German Shepherds. Click Here Trained German shepherds Our trained puppies include potty and crate training, socialization skills within a family home environment including other animals, cats and dogs. Object orientation in building confident, self-assurd puppies with motivation to perform. Our puppies live with our families, our children, interacting daily in our homes. Click Here German Shepherds Buying an older puppy or a young adult trained German Shepherds can be risky and could end with disastrous results. Protection plus Love!!! We are a small "Mom and Pop", breeder of top quality, working line, German Shepherds. Established in , we are located in the very center of the state of Colorado in the Rocky mountains. Licensed, and AKC inspected and approved facility. Our goal is to breed Dogs who are top quality, and affordable. Beautiful, healthy, dogs that have stable temperaments. All our dogs hips and elbows have been checked, and passed by the OFA. We do genetic testing to insure none of our puppies will develop Degenerative Myelopathy detailed information regarding DM at the bottom of our "Family Comments Gallery" page. The medical documentation paperwork is available for viewing when you come visit to see our dogs or puppies. We breed for black and tan, black and red, sable, black and bi-color puppies. Mostly we have short coat dogs, but do produce limited numbers of long coat pups. Our dogs are predominantly Czech and German working lines. Trained dogs are a positive addition to the lives of their families. These pups can vary in drives and excitability levels but all are working dogs, capable of doing a job suited to their individual drive levels. We try to make it a top priority to match the right puppy to the right family. Our dogs bloodlines are versatile. We breed puppies who could excel in Search and Rescue, Schutzhund, French Ring or Agility, or be great pets and companions. We breed straighter back, working line dogs. You will LOVE them.Get the best supplements for your dog or puppy. All of our dogs and puppies enjoy these daily and are used like a daily treat, taken right from the hand. Call to Order Please use order code You may also place your order on-line today by clicking on the banner below. We are a family located in the beautiful Rocky Mountains of Loveland, Colorado. Our family is passionate about dogs and therapy dogs specifically due to our family story having 2 little ones with special needs and my father was a war veteran who committed suicide. My name is Melissa Wren and I am on a mission driven to help provide unconditional love to others who need it by and through our magnificent dogs. Our German Shepherds have been, and are in the process of being trained to be in the line of service and therapy work. At Sweetheart German Shepherds we are very committed to raising the highest quality German Shepherds that we can with our 1 priority being healthy sound dogs both physically and mentally. All our dogs are health tested and screened for wellness as recommended by the American Kennel Club for the bred and temperament tested before they are used in our breeding and therapy dog training.

Long or medium, water resistant Coat Colors Bi-colored, range from black, cream, sable, black, and amber. Above all, know that these dogs are by no means small! In fact, they can grow to be quite large. This mix will grow to be somewhere in between how big its parents are. Male and female German Shepherds have a better big difference in height and weight. While males grow up to 24 and 26 inches cm , females get to be about 22 and 24 inches cm. As far as weight, males can be 65 to 90 pounds kg heavy while females are only between 50 to 70 pounds kg. The Golden Retriever looks a bit different. Again, there is a difference between the sexes. Females can grow as tall as .Males are inches 58 — 61 cm tall and pounds 29 — 34 kg heavy. But what does this mean for your Golden Shepherd? As mentioned above these dogs grow to 20 to 26 inches cm tall and 60 to 85 pounds 27 — 39 kg heavy. It really is just a guessing game with this breed. Hands down, they the best out of the best when it comes to guarding. Golden Retrievers are on the opposite end of the spectrum. They are very easy going, love all strangers, and are loyal to any family members. These dogs are social and beloved because of their awesome people pleasing skills. The Golden Retriever German Shepherd Mix could inherit any combination of these behaviors from their parents, just as the same as their appearance. Their cleverness makes training easy. Kids and Golden Shepherds get along great. Your dog will always be up for some fetch or tug-of-war. Since there is hunting blood in their veins, watch them around smaller animals. Or you might witness lots of chasing. Be on the Lookout for These Possible Health Problems source As mentioned in the first paragraph Golden Shepherds have a life expectancy of around years if they receive enough love and high-quality care. However, German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers have numerous health issues that can pass down to their puppies. Work closely with your breeder to prevent this from happening to you. German Shepherd Health Risks These dogs have been bred for multiple centuries. Because of this, they run into many medical problems. However, here are the top three problems that you might run into. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia This is a pretty common disease for most, but unfortunately, the German Shepherd is more prone to it than others. In fact, 1 out of 5 German Shepherds are expected to have this. This could be blamed on their energetic personality and big stature. Regardless, hip and elbow dysplasia is when the hip or elbow joint frequently pops out of its socket. As you can expect, this can cause the bones to wear down over time and, eventually, cause lameness. Perianal Fistula In other words, doggy diarrhea. It can be particularly alarming as it is often accompanied with bloody poop. It all starts when the skin around the anus begins to gets infected. Osteoarthritis Or, when the joints begin to wear down after normal living. Most specifically for German Shepherds, it happens around the spine. If you take good care of your German Shepherd, as well as schedule regular vet visits to be proactive in their health, you can expect 11 happy years together. The most alarming of these is cancer. Aside from this, you can expect .Here are several of their other health problems: Atopic Dermatitis : Otherwise known as allergies! Most commonly, dogs can be allergic to pollen, animal dander, plants, insects, food, and medication. This breed is known to have lots of issues with this. Aortic Stenosis : This is a medical condition that affects the blood flow in the chambers of the heart. Eventually, this can thicken the heart walls and lead to serious heart issues and even failure. Just like with German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers are also prone to hip and elbow dysplasia. Many do debates whether this is true. The unfortunate side of this is that examples have shown us over time they may change into something not as healthy. A great example of this is the English Bulldog. Yet, on the other hand, mixing combines the positive traits of two types while getting rid of the negative. It takes a lot of time and hard effort, but it can happen. Regardless of this debate, whether your pup is healthy comes down to the breeder you choose and the parents. But what should you specifically work on? Make sure to socialize your Golden Shepherd early in case they adopt the nervousness around strangers from their German Shepherds parents. Have visitors, other animals, and children over often. The more experience they have around strangers, the better. Plan for many daily walks. Because of this, a house with a yard is better. But an apartment can work if given enough daily exercise. Since German Shepherds and Golden Retrievers are prone to having joint problems and your pup could inherit these issues, be cautious when exercising. As well, overeating can be a problem because extra weight increases the load on the joints. Make sure to use a brush that can reach both layers of the coat. Heading to the bathtub too often can damage their skin. As well, pay attention to how long their nails have grown and clip when necessary. Brush their teeth weekly to avoid the buildup of plaque and stinky kisses. And check their ears weekly for too much wax. This depends on where you buy from and the pedigree. The good news is that there are breeders everywhere! Also across Canada and the UK. As we mentioned before, do your research! Make sure anyone you purchase from is raising healthy and happy pups. Do a quick search in your area on sites like:. Furthermore, since they have deep ears, these dogs accumulate ear wax quicker than the other dogs. These dogs need 45 — 90 minutes per day of exercise These activities also reduce the chances of having health issues in the future. This said trait may result in an unintentional aggressiveness to strangers. To fix this issue, these dogs should have proper training and enough socialization in their early years. Note sure the Golden Shepherd is right for you? Ever wonder what a Golden Retriever Corgi looks like? These dogs are very loyal to their owners and are also intelligent which prevent the dogs from causing trouble. They are generally patient, attentive, and eager to learn and work. They are an affectionate and a great companion 2. Guarding Ability Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs are large and muscular dogs due to the genetics of the parent breed German Shepherd. These features allow you to have dogs that can protect you and the people around you. Environmental Adjustments With proper training, these dogs are remarkably adaptive. This characteristic gives you an easy time particularly if you move around frequently to regions with many changes in the weather and environment. So, If you want to travel with your pet, this breed is the one for you. Their body is longer than it is tall. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs weigh from 60 lbs to 80 lbs while their height can range from 20 inches to 25 inches. This breed has variations in coat types and colors. Their coats are commonly long, dense, thick and doubled; resulting in a higher chance of constant shedding. These energetic dogs like outdoor activities such as swimming, long walks, and jogging but you need to be wary of extreme heat because of their thick coats. Early socialization training for these dogs is valued. This breed tends to be reserved and nervous towards strangers. Nonetheless, they can learn to be friendly immediately by going out regularly. German Shepherd Golden Retriever Mix dogs usually express extreme loyalty and a loving personality to their owner and the family they belong to. The German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever is not an official dog breed yet; however, the following organizations recognize them as a designer mixed-breed. A reliable breeder should provide you with valuable documents. If everything checks out, a contract that shows clear briefing of the conditions is essential. Doing research and exploring your community is the best way to find reliable breeders. Remember, adopting a dog will always cost less. Visit your local animal shelter to ask about the availability of this dog breed. Moreover, try looking into the private dog rescues as some dogs may be transported there. Grooming Your Golden Retriever German Shepherd German Shepherd mixed with Golden Retriever dogs require regular coat brushing because their coat tends to be tangled and matted together. Regular brushing promotes a shiny and healthy fur for this mixed breed. Here are some products that you might need for this pet. Pro Slicker Brush for Dogs and Cats This slicker brush either has a flat or curved head with lots of thin wire pins which help to untangle and shed loose fur. This mixed breed features a double-coat that requires constant brushing making this item a must-have for all dog owners. Dog nails can hurt other people or animals when they get playful. Sometimes, dogs snap their nails off unintentionally, and the pain can be excruciating for them. To use, gently hold their paws and snip off small bits of the toenails. Promptly discontinue if any bleeding occurs. Apart from the items suggested, bathing is one of the most important steps in pet care to remove unpleasant odors and dirt on their coat. When giving a bath, make use of dog shampoo to avoid accidental allergy attacks and fleas. This dog breed typically has large ears that can accumulate wax. Observe your dog for symptoms of ear problems; healthy dogs do not habitually bother their ears. Wax, dirt, and other elements may cause ear infections. For better cleaning and disinfection, use liquid ear cleaners and cotton balls. Golden Retriever mixed with German Shepherd dogs need regular trimming, so make it a habit to schedule appointments with your veterinary clinic at least once or twice a month. Make sure they get trimmed around the eye area for better vision , around the anus for hygiene , and the chin for easy eating. Mixed-breed dogs are ordinarily healthier than their parent breeds, yet this specific breed is more prone to certain health conditions than others. Most of these health problems are seen as the dog gets older. This breed enjoys being active and playing which can cause a harmful impact and damage on their bones and joints. Receiving an average level of activity would prevent them from having these problems. Here are some more health hazards that you need to be aware of: Allergies Both parent breeds are prone to allergies and German Shepherd Retriever Mixed dogs share this trait. Their common allergies mainly affect their skin and flea bites or certain foods typically cause these. Fleas are tiny parasites that dogs can accumulate from outdoors. You can prevent this by avoiding physical contact with environmental allergens. The symptoms include mouth or nose bleeding, blood in the urine, and excessive bleeding, and unfortunately, there is no cure yet. Joint Dysplasia In dogs with joint dysplasia, the joints fail to develop correctly, scraping and grinding upon each other instead of sliding smoothly. Bloating Bloating in humans and bloating in dogs are different. It is harmless in humans, however, in dogs it is deadly. Immediate treatment for bloat is needed. It would be best to take your dog to a veterinarian as soon as possible because there is no first aid that you can do at home. Learning some first aids for this breed of dogs can also help. Awareness over these usual problems of the Golden Retriever crossed with German Shepherd breed will result to their proper care. Your furry friend should get the best, so pick their food wisely. You can find lots of options in the best dry dog food list. Whelps need energy to be active, which means lots of proteins too. Food that gives them everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different requirements, so skim through the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay healthy and show off proudly. Steer clear of the worst dry dog food at all costs. You can also find some ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will love. Because of their energetic personality, these dogs need a diet that can fulfill their nutrition needs. Dogs may be omnivores, but they highly rely on protein to survive. It is also the building block of their muscles. Although dogs love fat in their meals, it is necessary to maintain the amount of fat that you give them. Too much fat is harmful to their well-being and too little creates skin problems. Make sure that your dogs are hydrated, especially if you live in a hot place. Ingredients and supplements for joint and bone development are also needed to prevent possible injuries for this very active dog. Giving your dogs vegetables, fruits, and other minerals is proper for their growth. However, you need to be wary of the portions since it varies depending on their age and body size. Avoid products that contain these ingredients since they are not good sources of carbohydrates for dogs. Share this article Share The charity said it hoped these crossbreed puppies will have the loyalty and drive of the German Shepherd, as well as the friendliness and confidence of the Golden Retriever. While it was Trigger's 28th litter, it was the first for the puppies' mother, a three-year-old German Shepherd called Unity. Guide Dogs said it runs the 'biggest, most ethical breeding programme of working dogs in the world'. The puppies cosy up to their mother, a three-year-old German Shephered called Unity This was the first litter Unity has had, although it is the 28th litter of their father, which is Guide Dogs UK's most prolific stud The sight loss charity tests the health of its breeding dogs, which live with volunteers to give the puppies the best start in a home environment. All puppies to go the Guide Dogs National Centre near Leamington Spa for one week before being individually placed with volunteer puppy raisers across the UK. The charity helps millions with sight loss in Britain, such as Nathan Foy, 41, from Cardiff. Pictured: Nathan Foy, 41, with his dog Mason. Mr Foy suffers from sight loss because of congenital glaucoma Mr Foy said Guide Dogs UK 'saved' his life and said his dog Mason reassures him if he has hallucinations becuase of his condition He also has Charles Bonnet syndrome, which causes him to have intense visual hallucinations, usually related to things he touches or hears. The hallucinations can be simple patterns but in many cases are complex images including events, people, places or animals. Mr Foy said his guide dog Mason kept him safe and able to realise his visions were not real. He said: 'Living with Charles Bonnet has been really difficult.

If this sounds like your doodle, he probably needs bathing between grooming appointments. If you have multiple doodles to bathe, buy a gentle shampoo such as one that's oatmeal-based or made especially for puppies. Doodles do not have an undercoat and do not need an extra conditioning or deep-cleaning shampoo. Step 2 Brush your labradoodle out before getting him wet. Doodles tend to mat and if yours has mats, comb or pull them out with your fingers before his bath. If his mats get wet, they will be more difficult to remove and may cause pain or discomfort if they are close to the skin. Use a handheld shower head to wet him completely, making sure you get the hair underneath wet. Pour a dime- or quarter-size amount of shampoo in your hands and squeeze the shampoo through his coat rather than rubbing it in. Step 4 Rinse your doodle off thoroughly, making sure all the shampoo is washed out. If your labradoodle is super curly, rinse carefully: shampoo not washed out can become itchy. Step 5 Watch his ears so they do not get too wet: try to avoid getting water in his ear canals. You may want to put cotton in his ears to keep them dry, or avoid washing around his ears. Labradoodles have floppy ears that are not exposed to air and are often prone to chronic ear infections. After a bath, take a few cotton balls and swab the ear canal to dry it. Step 6 Dry your doodle off with towels and allow him to air-dry so his coat falls naturally. Wait to brush him out until he is completely dry. More Articles. Labradoodles need to be bathed every two to three weeks. This will help clean their fur and allow you to check their skin. Dogs can get dirty really easily, and they need regular grooming to remove dirt and dust from their coats. Bathing your Labradoodle is not only essential to keep them clean and healthy, it helps to prevent hair knots and matting As a single coated and low shedding breed, Labradoodles will require deep rinsing when they are bathed. A small Doodle puppy having a bath Regular brushing, bathing, and groomings are all different things. Grooms include the trimming of the fur, and is usually done together with bathing or directly before. Groom every weeks for most Labradoodle coats Bathing helps with both aesthetics, coat health, and prevention of skin conditions Brushing for a wavy or curly coat LAbradoodle should be at least every few days the more the merrier If you own a straight coat Labradoodle shedding you should consider how much shedding is happening. If it is a higher shedding season, you should bathe and groom your dog more frequently to assist in shedding. Also, if your dog spends a lot of time outside, he gets dirty with sweat, mud, pollens, or sticks. He needs a more frequent grooming routine. This causes your dog to itch. Grooming for Labradoodles like Max after the beach means thorough rinsing with fresh water, followed by a Gentle Shampoo and brush at home. Labradoodle puppies need bathing just the same as full-grown Labradoodles. However a spot clean here and there is usually more appropriate for a puppy. They frequently make messes so a full bath is overkill and can hurt the coat. Puppies love playing in the dirt. This is normal behavior. Puppies often also struggle with potty training Puppies make a beeline toward bad smells and messes So expect a lot of spot cleans and mini baths for your Labradoodle puppy. How Old Should Labradoodle Puppies Be For Bath In terms of a full bath, you can start bathing your puppy when he or she is old enough to understand what is happening. Make sure you do this in an appropriate place, such as a bathtub or sink. Puppies need to learn about water before being bathed, so try to teach your puppy to enjoy baths. Do this by slowly introducing the concept, making it seem fun, and minimizing background distractions. Bathing dogs in a smaller container makes them feel more comfortable. These small gestures all work well together to create and reinforce a positive experience. Instead of using adult Labradoodle shampoo — go for a gentle puppy shampoo or even some baby shampoos if they are Vet and Groomer approved. Straight hair dogs still can have some Poodle-esque snout furnishings. This one needs a bath! A Labradoodle needs to be groomed and trimmed about once every two months. Trimming the hair around the face, butt, and ears is important because this is where most dirt accumulates. Our detailed grooming guide for Labradoodles gives 11 tips for DIY grooming. It is very possible to confidently groom a Labradoodle, but it takes preparation and practice. How to Bathe Your Labradoodle Bathing your Labradoodle takes longer than bathing many other breeds because of their thick coats. You should set aside some time before you bathe your Labradoodle so you can prepare everything you need beforehand. Some Labradoodles LOVE the water and playing fetch At Home Labradoodle Bathing Shopping List A decent shampoo that suits Labradoodle coats does not need to be crazy expensive Towels many, many towels Scissors even though we are not grooming, in case of knots or surprises Rubber gloves I do not use but many do Dog brush optional — I suggest a metal comb as well Small bucket for rinsing Tear stain remover if your Labradoodle has a light coat The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath by putting some water in the bottom of a tub and allowing him to stand in it. Turn on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting him. Make sure he sees it is not harmful and allows him to get used to the sound and feel. Rinse first before adding any product. Sand, dirt, debris. Make sure the water gets to the skin level through the long coat. Once you are able to get the dogs completely rinsed off so that there is no visible dirt left on the fur and their coats are entirely wet , you will then want to lather them up with the product of your choosing. Labradoodle Max enjoys a cuddle in a towel after a shower and bath Make sure that this product is safe to use on your dog by checking with a veterinarian or by using products that were specifically designed for your furry friend. Use this opportunity to perform your own health check. Rinse your dog with water from the tap or small bucket and inspect them thoroughly before washing them again. Twice over gives a thorough and great result. This might seem obvious, but make sure there are no more bubbles coming out of the coat. Labradoodle luxurious hair does tend to trap some soap. Dry Time a Challenge Drying a Labradoodle is hard work! You need to use lots of towels, and you need to be careful not to scare your puppy too much. Use a hairdryer if you like, and be careful when turning it on. Also, take extra care to dry their eyes and ears. Most dogs find the noise of a hairdryer overwhelming. Brush a dry dog only. A wet dog can be combed blunt steel comb though, these are so helpful. You should bathe your dog fully when he is 3 months old. Use quality puppy shampoo and conditioners designed for puppies. You can skip the conditioner really — but some owners like this extra step. Before 3 months, you should get him used to being wet and having been washed. Do mini baths or fast baths for the puppy coat until this age. This helps make future baths much easier. Even getting used to the running water and towel dry will help your dog be happier as an adult doodle during a grooming session. The Consequences of too Many Baths for Labradoodles If you wash a Labradoodle too frequently, we risk damaging their adult coat. The coat needs time to grow and develop properly. If you wash your dog too often, you could damage its natural protective oils and leave it feeling rough and scratchy. The likelihood of skin irritation or reaction to cleaning equipment also increased with an over-washed coat. Dry skin, loose hair, and irritated skin need to be monitored. Realistically this will not be a concern for most of us. Our Labradoodle Max does visit the beach often, so he gets washed in Summer FAR more frequently than the other times of the year. We try to efficiently wash him using safe and gentle shampoo — but cut down the repeat lathering. When winter comes round, he bathes far less frequently — but we use more shampoo and later more when he does wash. A happy gray Poodle and Doodle dog. Their fur looks dull and lifeless. The entire coat has an odor If you have a sedentary, indoor Labradoodle — do NOT feel obliged to bathe your dog every 2 weeks. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labrador by starting early and introducing him to water gently. Use treats and praises to introduce him to all elements of the bathing process. A dog needs to learn how to take baths, shampoo, conditioner, wash rags, brushes, and blow dryer. It takes time and effort to teach a dog everything he or she needs to know about bathing. Start with a few short baths then gradually increase the frequency. Be patient. Dogs and puppies can take many different attempts to understand and learn a new concept. Should you blow-dry a Labradoodle coat? Start by using a gentle hairdryer setting. I know this sounds ridiculous as even the quiet settings are often very intense. But as possible, build up the settings slowly. Start with the outside of the legs — most dogs tolerate this the most. Then dry the legs. Save the head, chest, and face for the very last. The restraint is calming a bit and safe and makes maneuvering around a displeased Labradoodle much easier. It is the only area that requires you to have a little extra knowledge and to be cautious. We have a guide specifically about ear cleaning. A big number of issues that Labradoodles have with health and odor all relate to the ears. Ear infections are common, as are grime and mites caught in the ear hair. The Curly coat type is particularly prone to this issue. It was the most surprising area of grooming that I have encountered with Poodle Mix breeds. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Australian Labradoodle Grooming Guide Choosing a Groomer Before you bring your Australian Labradoodle to the groomer, ask if they have had previous experience clipping Australian Labradoodles. Show your groomer some photos from our website so that they know exactly how you expect the clip to look. Labradoodle coats require a regular brushing and grooming routine. How often you have your Australian Labradoodle trimmed will depend on how fast their coat grows, your personal preferences in how long you leave them, how much maintenance you want to do at home, and how often you have them groomed professionally. You can expect to bathe and completely blow out their coat every weeks, and plan to have them trimmed approximately every weeks. For an adult Australian Labradoodle, you should allow on average, 60 minutes every two weeks for brushing time. If your Labradoodle is active in the water or hiking in nature areas, you may have to run a brush through them more often to remove debris or loosen hair clumping during the drying process post-swimming. Wait until your dog is dry, then run a slicker through their coat. Purchasing a small grooming table and arm, and training them to stand still during brushing and drying will save your back. But be warned that you need to always have a hand on your dog when they are on the grooming table or attached to a grooming arm. Never leave them or turn away or they can try to jump off the table and injure themselves. When your Labradoodle has short hair, an inch or two, regular brushing with a slicker can work just fine. Once the hair gets longer, it is important to make sure you are reaching all the way to the base of the hair by adding a metal greyhound comb. If loose hair is not removed near the skin, mats can begin to form. In separating your dogs coat with your hand, you can brush and comb all the way to the skin. Work backwards from the feet up to the body, and the tail to the head. Brush in the direction of the hair, but add small amounts of coat to each stroke. At approximately eight months old a puppy coat needs more frequent brushing during its changeover to the adult coat. Bathing: Australian Labradoodles need bathed and brushed out approximately once a month. Puppies can be bathed as needed. If you are going to bath your Australian Labradoodle at home, be sure to brush through the coat completely first. If you do it the other way around, any mats will get tighter when you get them wet. Also, watch that you do not pull on the mat while you are cutting it, and be aware of how closely the skin may be to your scissors. We also use a dematting tool to help break a mat into a smaller piece for easier removal. Then brush, comb, or gently work any mats out. Purchasing a commercial hair dryer is worth the investment and will speed up the drying process. Head: The lovable teddy bear look of your Australian Labradoodle is enjoyed every time you look at them, and every time you take them out and others look at them. No matter what length the body is trimmed, that adorable teddy bear face can make up the difference in winning hearts everywhere they go. A picture is worth a thousand words, so the photos and grooming card below coming soon will help to clarify the following worded instructions you will need to convey to your groomer to get exactly the look you want to see. It is best to print out the grooming card and take it with you at each visit to your groomer. This creates a more natural look and keeps the hair from poking at or covering their eyes. It also makes it easier to clean any matter out from the corner in the morning. Feet: Keeping your Labradoodles paws shaped nicely will help less water and debris attach to their feet as they are coming and going. We start trimming around their paws by around weeks of age to get them used to the action of having their feet picked up and worked with. You want to go around the bottom edge of their paw in a nice, rounded shape, snipping off longer hair so that it does not hit the ground. Your groomer can trim hair from the bottom of their feet with a clipper and a 30 blade. Nails should be trimmed regularly every weeks depending on wear. The hair under their tail should also be trimmed to keep the area clean. It is important to realize that regular brushing, bathing, and grooming are different things. Grooming includes the trimming of the hair, and is usually done in tandem with bathing or directly after but does not need to happen quite as frequently, although you are welcome to do so if you would like. Bathing helps you check in on your Labradoodle, maintain their coat from tangling, and keeps them healthy and clean. Labradoodles should be bathed every 2 to 3 weeks but can go up to 4 or 5 weeks depending on the time of year and their other grooming habits. For example, a dog will shed more in the fall and spring as he or she prepares for the cold or hot weather respectively; you will want to bathe him or her more during this time. Bathing your Labradoodle regularly helps you take care of their hair and also allows you to inspect all areas of their body. You will want to take into consideration the amount of shedding happening as well as the amount of outside time your Labradoodle is getting. If it is a high shedding season, you will want to bathe and groom your Labradoodle more frequently to assist in the shedding process. Similarly, when they spend a lot of time outdoors they get dirtier with sweat, mud, pollen, or sticks and need a more regular grooming routine as well. Since a Labradoodle coat repels dirt anyway, this should not be difficult. Simply follow the standard guidelines, and you should be fine. Labradoodle puppies actually need less bathing than full-grown Labradoodles, except in the case of visible dirt. When a Labradoodle puppy is developing his or her adult fur coat, his or her body will be attempting to regulate the oils that help to prevent dry skin among other concerns. Additionally, it is not until a dog has reached past the six- to eight-month range that his or her adult coat has become more water-resistant. Thus, as your Labradoodle puppy grows and plays, it is important to consider only bathing once per month or unless you can see visible dirt. If you are able to simply brush the dirt away, and your puppy does not have a strong odor, you may consider doing this to spread the bathing process out. Daily brushing is not necessary but will make the scheduled grooming less intensive. Labradoodles are pretty playful dogs all throughout their lifetime, but this may be especially true during their puppy years. Therefore, you may find that your Labradoodle puppy tends to roll around in the dirt more than he or she will in later years. If this is the case, then the basic brushing or rinsing method may be preferable to bathing weekly. Many people wonder when it is safe to first bathe a puppy. Puppies can be bathed as soon as they are ready and able to go home. Keep in mind, though, that bathing a puppy can be a scary process for them, so you will want to consider a few tricks to make the process more fun. For example, you may bathe them in a smaller bin than a large white tub, run the water prior to baths so that the initial process is not as loud, and provide a treat before and after they complete a job well done in the bath. By creating a safe and fun environment and reflecting an exciting personality for them to mirror, your Labradoodle will have a better likelihood of enjoying bath time from the start. How often you groom your Labradoodle will largely depend on your lifestyle and preferences. Many Labradoodles do not need to be fully groomed more than four times per year. You can minimize full shaves by trimming more regularly before a full shave is needed. Keep an eye out for signs of wax buildup and excessive ear hair; these may be indications of ear mites or disease. You put the solution into each ear, massage it for seconds, and then wipe it out using a tissue. Check with your vet for tips on loose hair removal and which solution to use. Labradoodles have a thick, curly type of coat which means it will take longer to bathe them in comparison to other dogs with straight or thinner coat types. Choosing when you will bathe your Labradoodle, as well as having all of your bathing tools ready in advance is important for a successful bath. Do not expect to be done in a few minutes like you would with a short-haired or small dog. One thing to note is that if you want your Labradoodle to have time outside afterward for drying purposes or just to help them be comfortable before bed, you should aim for mid-day so the sun is out and they have plenty of drying time. Otherwise, you may choose to dry them with a towel or blow dryer if they will let you do so. Keep in mind, though, that many dogs are scared of loud noises, so your Labradoodle may take some warming up to a hairdryer if this is the option you choose to go with. Knowing What You Need Getting the right products and equipment is very important for bathing your Labradoodle. Below, I will include a section on great shampoos and conditioners to use with your furry friend. If you are comfortable just using your regular tub, you will not really need much more. Just a couple of towels and maybe a hairdryer for drying as well as a good slicker brush to detangle after will be the essentials! Ideally, you will have a hose or removable showerhead so that you can rinse it easier. If you decide that you would rather use something other than a regular tub, you may need access to other tools to help make this process go smoothly. You may choose to use a bin for them to stand in and a bucket to transport water for rinsing purposes. By choosing something that will require less effort on your part, you will be more accessible to your dog and make this process a fun and routine experience for him or her. The Process in the Bath for your Labradoodle Acclimate Your Labradoodle and Rinse The first thing you will need to do is get your Labradoodle used to the bath and showerhead. A bath is not something that a dog has naturally been bred to understand, so it takes a little coaching and familiarizing on your part. Many dogs quickly acclimate to the process, but it is helpful if you are there encouraging them along the way both in practice and in attitude. To help acclimate your Labradoodle to the bath, put a little water in the bottom of the tub and allow them to stand in it. Making sure it is warm is a good idea to get them a positive first impression. This can be done in a quiet and calm fashion to show your Labradoodle that this is nothing to be scared of or dreaded. After you have gotten them more comfortable with their surroundings the tub plus a small amount of water , try turning on the showerhead or hose attachment while petting them. Let them see it is not harmful and allow them to get used to the noise and feeling. Again, your calming presence and helpful comfort will be helpful if they are more fearful of the bath or bathing devices. Add Products and Check on Their Skin Once you are able to get them fully rinsed off as in there is no visible dirt on the fur and their coat is entirely wet , you will want to lather them with the product of your choice. Please ensure that this product is safe for your dog by checking with your vet or by using products that are designed for your fur baby. When you are lathering them with the suds, it is best to use your hands to do this so that you can feel around under the coat on the skin for any problems such as lumps, bumps, or parasitic ticks. Regularly feeling them including during bath time will help you to detect ticks or abnormalities earlier on and could save your Labradoodle from experiencing much worse pains. This is considered more of a preventative health approach than a reactive one. Keep in mind it is good to avoid ears on Labradoodles when rinsing and using products. Their floppy, large ears are prone to infections and issues. By using your hands to rinse and wash them, you will have much more control over the areas of the body that receive treatment. As they may be excited and moving about more freely, you can help to show them how to stay calm by holding them lovingly as you rinse them. It will be important for you to consider wearing clothes that you do not mind getting wet or sudsy so that you can feel comfortable providing whatever support your pup may need during bath time. Rinse and Maybe Repeat After lathering your Labradoodle with shampoo and inspecting by rustling your fingers through his or her fur, you should thoroughly rinse them off. You will want to make sure to use the hose or showerhead to get all areas of them thoroughly rinsed off. Be sure that there are no more bubbles or suds that are coming off from their hair as you complete the process. This is particularly important because leaving in shampoo by accident can cause worse tangling after the bath. So, rather than helping in the grooming process, this can actually hurt their fur and can become painful for them. Additionally, this can cause the next bath and grooming time to be much more difficult for you as you will have to untangle more fur than you would have had you just rinsed your dog off completely the first time. Drying Drying the coat of a Labradoodle is no easy task! If you know anyone with thick, curly hair or if that is you in this case , then that person can absolutely verify that drying their hair is likely the lengthiest part of the hair maintenance process. When drying off a Labradoodle, you can expect to go through large towels during this. You will want to use towels that have a higher absorbency, but they do not have to specifically be designed for use with a dog. Using a hairdryer if your pup will let you can improve drying time significantly! Many dogs get very excited positively or negatively by loud noises such as hairdryers. If your dog is positively excited about the hairdryer, you will want to hold them more firmly while you dry them off- though be sure that this is still considered a fun activity for your pup. If they are negatively excited by the loud hairdryer, be sure to warn them before you turn it on, calmly approach them, and keep the intervals of use short. Take extra care to dry their ears, using tissue or cotton, to make sure they do not have water caught in there for long. It is important to note that just like humans should not cram a Q-tip into the ear canal as this can actually push and pack wax and other substances further into the canal , you will want to follow the same precautions for your dog. Wipe off any surface of the ear that is visible to the human eye, but do not go any further. Allowing tangles to sit can cause them to become much worse — and the last thing you want is to end up at a groomer after spending time and effort attempting to do this on your own. Similar to human hair, one of the best things you can do is to use a thick bristle comb on the fur while it is still wet. This will ensure that the tangles are removed thoroughly without breaking or damaging the hair. You can find thick bristle combs specifically designed for dogs, or you can even just use one that is designed for human hair as long as you remain cautious and aware of your dog during the grooming process. Brushing with a thin bristle brush or comb before they are dry can cause their hair to break or come out more easily, so waiting to brush them is the best option here. If you are going to attempt to do this on your own, this is also the best time to trim them as well. If you notice they need it and have learned how to do so without causing harm to your dog there are several areas you can learn online then taking off a bit of length can be a great thing for them and you. If you are unfamiliar with the trimming process or do not have the right tools, it is important to take your dog to a professional groomer instead of attempting this and accidentally harming your furry friend. This would absolutely delay their enjoyment of bath and grooming time. Then, the owner can attempt in a small capacity on areas instead of the entire coat that he or she feels comfortable prior to the groomer trimming the rest, and then eliminate the groomer completely. When considering purchasing a shampoo and conditioner for your Labradoodle, it is critical to remember that you must find one that is designed for doggy fur. Sometimes, human baby shampoos can be used on dogs, but it is best to purchase one that is designed specifically for use with animals. Here are a few to consider: 1. Ph Balanced! Made In The Usa! Buy With Confidence! Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site s , as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product. One of the things that I love about using this brand of shampoo is the fact that it makes untangling so much easier afterward. I am not positive as to why this is the case, although I assume it has something to do with the oatmeal. Either way, it definitely feels great for their fur. Healthy Breeds Pet Shampoo is a great product that is also economical. This brand is a great, safe choice if you are looking for a shampoo to try out for the first time! They do not require frequent baths because too much bathing can strip away necessary oils in their skin and fur. If your Labradoodle has a curly coat, you probably take them to the groomer on occasion for a trim, and they can be washed there. However, as any dog owner knows, dogs love to roll around in gross things, and your playful pup may not shy away from a mud puddle. Dogs are the same way. Also, when long fur gets wet, it will stretch more when you pull on it, resulting in rips and tears that will make their coat look worse. Let your dog test the water before you turn on the shower head or start dumping it on them. The last thing you want to do is create an aversion to bath time. Labradoodles tend to enjoy water, so they are likely to be fine in the bath. Choose the right products There are so many dog shampoos and conditioners on the market. It can be hard to choose which one is best for your Labradoodle. With this breed, simple products without a lot of scents or colors may be best. While the Labradoodle is considered to be a hypoallergenic dog, this does not mean that the dog cannot suffer from allergies. Labradoodles are prone to environmental allergies, which can extend to grooming products. If your shampoo makes your dog itchy and uncomfortable, they will probably scratch themselves excessively, which can cause skin problems. Also look for products that are non-toxic, because it is hard to stop your dog from licking himself. Look for a gentle shampoo, perhaps even one that is made for dogs with allergies. The goal is to remove the dirt and bad odors, not completely strip their skin and coat of necessary oils. There are also shampoos on the market that are designed to make white coats appear whiter. If your white Labradoodle looks yellow or discolored, you may want to try one of those shampoos. Conditioners are also available for dogs with especially dry coats, but they are not necessary for bathing. Joined: Mon Sep 25, pm Location: Worcestershire Post by eileenandmolly » Wed Jun 23, pm Aw, you are so looking forward to your new baby Wish it was me I'd probably suggest that you wait for your new pup to settle in before you think of bathing. Apart from it being a new experience which would be helped by pup having acquired confidence in you, you might also find that the "dog-smell" disappears when pup has been with you for a day or two.I have to confess that I do not bath my dogs at all. You will get other opinions! My groomer also doesn't believe in bathing. My two get a hose off if they have rolled in something really stinky, or if Molly has done her hippopotamus impression wallowing in mud wherever she can As it is easy to become immune to dog-smell, my test is my 2 grown up daughters - who are both very house proud I recall their teenage days when they were not houseproud at all ie in MY house - it is different now they have their own and they both say they cannot smell dog in my house. So, I'd say, wait a bit and see how it goes Ei, Molly and Saffie. We use Madden pin brushes on our labradoodles and have found this brush to be excellent quality. If you catch them in play mode during the day, you will only be reinforcing that brushing time is something to get all riled up about. Nail Clipping Clipping their nails is also a good exercise to do when you find them tired out. They tend to care a lot less about things. You can start by just clipping the nails on one paw. This way your pup learns this is quick and no big deal. It also gives you the opportunity to practice this exercise 4 days in a row, rather than once and then having to wait for them to grow again. When clipping, clip just the tip of the nail where it starts to curve downward, holding the nail clippers parallel to the bottom of the paw. Be careful not to clip too much, otherwise it will hurt and the nail will bleed. Lean towards clipping little bits more often than trying to get a lot off all at once. Ear Cleaning Ear cleaning is something that labradoodles need since they have those long ears that trap and hold in moisture. Check their ears every few weeks and if you notice they look dirty, then get a cotton ball or makeup remover pad, etc. Never push anything down in the ear, you could damage the ear and cause your puppy pain. Do the other side, and finish with an ear drying powder. In fact, over bathing can harm this quality in their coat, and actually cause you to need to bathe more often. If they get dirty, let them dry and simply brush the dirt right out. It is good to get them used to getting wet though, and when you do use shampoo, we recommend a tearless shampoo specifically designed for dogs as their PH balance is different than humans. A good minute walk daily will meet this need your new family member has. Up until then, their joints are developing and jogging on pavement would not be good for their joints. However, this does not mean you have to limit their activity. Running across the yard chasing a ball at their own pace and will is good for their developing body, and talking walks through the neighborhood is an excellent way to meet their exercise needs. Labradoodles are a wonderful dog breed and opening up your home to one of these pups is going to bring so much joy into your life. With that being said, Labradoodles also require a considerable amount of maintenance and upkeep — with bathing being an easy thing to overlook. How to bathe a Labradoodle To bathe a Labradoodle, start by brushing them to remove any loose dirt, set your bath water to a lukewarm temperature, and gently help your dog inside. Lastly, dry your Labradoodle with a towel and blowdryer. A Labradoodle combines the incredible personality traits of the Labrador Retriever and the Poodle. This makes Labradoodles both unique and expensive , as you get to have the playful nature of a Labrador combined with the intelligence and cleverness of a Poddle, which is why so many pet owners are hopping on the Doodle trend. However, this kind of pup needs to be approached with careful consideration as it has unique qualities that make it stand out among other dogs. One of the first characteristics you will notice with your Labradoodle is that your pup has a different type of coat. Unlike most dog breeds that have fur, a Labradoodle has hair, which means that you need to bathe it properly if you want to keep its coat healthy. To help you understand this further, we are going to take you through our 5 step Labradoodle bath time routine. After extensively researching Labradoodle maintenance, I have been able to gather enough information to determine how to properly bathe this breed. My research has shown me that you need to follow the Labradoodle bathing procedure carefully if you want to get the best results from their coat. Keep in mind, you can always get your dog groomed by a professional groomer. Depending on who you ask, you will get a few different answers on this but as a general rule of thumb, you should bathe your pup once per month. With that being said, each Labradoodle is different and you may find that you need to bathe your dog more or less often depending on its lifestyle and environment. If your Labradoodle has a pretty stable routine at home and goes out for casual walks in urban areas, then you can probably get away with bathing your dog every 5 to 6 weeks. On the other hand, if you have a very active Labradoodle out in the countryside or simply one that tends to get messy at dog parks, you may need to wash your pup as often as every 3 weeks. You also need to consider that there is a difference between bathing and rinsing. Bathing is a thorough cleaning process where you give your Labradoodle a deep wash that targets its coat fully, as well as its skin. Rining is simply washing off your dog after they get a little bit muddy or dirty. When you bathe your Labradoodle, you want to do it routinely and systematically so that you can keep its coat as healthy as possible. Whereas rinsing is something that you can do quite regularly when needed — with some owners giving their dog a rinse multiple times a week after rugged play sessions at the park. Before you commit to a routine bathing schedule for your Labradoodle, you should try to observe its habits and behavior so that you can find an optimal timeframe that suits your pup. As we said, each Labradoodle is a bit different and you should decide on a schedule for your dog based on its lifestyle. Labradoodle Bathing Supplies Before you can begin bathing your pup, you first need to gather all of the right supplies for the job. Simply spraying your Labradoodle with your backyard hose is not going to do the trick. These are the bathing supplies that you need to get before you can start washing your dog. Given that this breed does not have fur, you need to buy a shampoo that is specifically meant for hair. There are a lot of different shampoo products out there and it is easy to feel overwhelmed when you consider your options. Some products have been made just for Labradoodle coats, which are going to deliver the best end results. Check Price One thing you always want to watch out for are shampoos that contain a lot of additives and chemicals. Much like with human hair, a Labradoodles coat is going to benefit most from natural ingredients — so read labels carefully and try to rely on trusted brands. Some products have been known to cause skin irritations, which is something you want to avoid at all costs. Whenever picking out a new shampoo, always do a test first to see how your dog responds. If you see that the coat is healthy afterward and that their skin is not irritated, you should be good to go. The coat of a Labradoodle will require a thorough drying process, which is why it is best to have at least two towels handy before you begin washing. A blow dryer with multiple settings is also recommended so that you can expose your Labradoodle to it slowly, which will keep them from getting frightened and intimidated. Exfoliated Dog Bathing Gloves Your hands should suffice for bathing your Labradoodle but by using exfoliated dog bathing gloves , you will find that the cleaning process is much more thorough. These gloves were designed for cleaning dog coats and having them on can make a huge difference in how effective the bathing process is. They are texturized to remove more hair, which will ensure a minimal amount of shedding, and they will also help get rid of any dead skin on your Labradoodle. This dog breed has a very specific type of coat that needs to be looked after carefully, as it can easily get messy if you forget to keep a consistent cleaning schedule. These are the steps that you need to follow to bathe your pup. Step 1: Hair Brushing Before you begin washing your Labradoodle with water, you want to get as much dirt and debris out of its coat as possible by using a brush Having a reliable brush for your Labradoodle is going to be a must for maintaining its hair — regardless of washing. You will be amazed by how much cleaning time you can save by doing this properly. In addition to dirt and debris, you also want to remove any loose hair from the coat, as this is also something that will hinder the bathing process. With that being said, we always find that it is better to take care of as much of the prep-work beforehand so that you can avoid a rough transition when the time comes to bathe your pup. The first thing that you want to do is make sure that all of your necessary cleaning supplies are nearby so that you can easily reach them. You want to make your Labradoodle as comfortable as possible when getting bathed which is why you should set the temperature of your water before throwing them into the tub. Lukewarm is generally the most ideal temperature setting for washing a dog. Step 3: Help Your Dog Get Into the Bath Again, each pup reacts differently to getting washed and you want to make the experience as pleasant as possible for them. If your dog is willing to hop right in for their routine bath, then great. However, not all Labradoodles are like this and may feel intimidated or dislike getting washed altogether. You can either usher your pup into the bath so they can hop in on their own or you can gently pick them up and place them inside. You must approach this with care so that they are not frightened by the idea of getting clean — especially if they are puppies and still getting used to the idea of bathing. Once they are inside, make sure that they feel comfortable and secure before you begin cleaning. Allow 30 seconds to a minute of adjustment time without the water on so that they can gauge their environment. This is always a good time for a pet, a pat, and a treat to reassure them that they are in good hands. You should be able to get a substantial amount of cleaning done with water alone, which will wash out the majority of the dirt, dust, and any kind of debris that is embedded into their coat. After you have gone through with the initial rinse, turn the water off if possible especially if they find it unpleasant. Go through their entire coat gently yet firmly and scrub all the way down to their skin. A lot of dogs actually enjoy this part of the bathing process, as it is essentially a massage. Once the product has been properly applied, let it soak into the coat for at least a couple of minutes. You can then rinse out the shampoo while giving them another quick scrub, which should remove any remaining dirt or debris. Given the curly and shaggy nature of their hair, a quick pass-through with a towel is not going to be enough to properly dry them. With your Labradoodle still inside the bath, use a towel to remove as much water as possible from their coat. You will find that the town soaks up quite a lot and it will likely become wet very quickly. Having a second towel handy is always a good idea when drying your Labradoodle, as you are going to need it. Now, that the initial drying process is done, use a blowdryer to remove the remaining moisture. Dogs typically do not like blowdryers at first and may even be afraid of them. Get your Labradoodle used to the blowdryer by gently exposing them to it. Use it from a further distance on a light setting and gradually work your way closer. Helping them get accustomed to the bathing and drying process will make it easier when they are bigger. The specific method used to bathe a Labradoodle will vary from one dog to the next, because their coat types can vary significantly. Some may have the tight curls of the Poodle, whilst others have straighter, thick Lab coats. Is Labradoodle Bathing Important? While many Labradoodle dogs are easier to manage than other breeds or mixes thanks to their low-shedding fur, they still need routine grooming. And yes, this sometimes includes a scheduled bath. Labradoodles are energetic, playful, and fun-loving breeds that love spending time outdoors and in water. And, playtime outside almost always involves some splashing in puddles and rolling in dirt. When this happens, your doodle dog will need a bath! This could also be the case if your pet develops a skin condition that needs to be treated with a medicated shampoo. So, you may find the event happening more often than you first expected. Even if you take your dog to the groomer regularly, there will be times where you need to clean them after a particularly messy walk. This is especially true if you have a first- or second-generation Labradoodle crossbreed. Their fur sheds less and produces less allergy inducing dander than many other types of dogs. All dogs shed and shed most during shedding season, including the Labradoodle. Along with being low shedding, the Labradoodle also has a dirt-repellent coat that tends to be much easier to manage. You can begin bathing your Labradoodle once he reaches three months of age. Try using a quality shampoo and conditioner that is designed for puppies. This is a part of socialization and can help make future bath times much easier. Once you begin bathing your Labradoodle, you may be tempted to do it more often than needed. But, over-bathing your Labradoodle can actually be damaging to their skin and fur. Once your Labradoodle reaches at least three months of age, you can begin bathing him once every two to three weeks. Doing so could have a negative impact on their skin and coat. All dogs produce natural oils that help aid in skin and coat health. Over-washing them can hinder this natural production of oils they need in order to keep their fur healthy. Overproduction or underproduction of these oils can cause an increase in skin problems. Including allergies, dry skin, patchy fur, and can even increase shedding. Luckily, Labradoodles are not known to carry much doggy odor. Still, if you want to help keep your Labradoodle smelling fresh between bath time, you always have the option of using grooming wipes or coconut oil. Some owners find this helps to reduce dry skin, soothe allergies, and keep their Labradoodle smelling lovely. However, be aware there is currently little evidence in scientific studies for these claims. You can then gently rub in your chosen shampoo, working it through their curls gently. Make sure the shampoo is fully rinsed out before moving onto the conditioner. Once again, make sure all conditioner is fully washed out afterwards. Dry them off with a towel at first, gently patting them dry and squeezing water out of the fur. Use your hand to soften the intensity of air. Tips for Getting Your Labradoodle Used to Bathtime Getting your Labradoodle puppy comfortable with being bathed at an early age can make all the difference when it comes to routine bath time. We should note that most dogs do not like being bathed. Even dogs who love water often tuck their tails when it comes time for a good wash. That said, you can help make bath time easier for your Labradoodle by starting early and introducing them to water gently. Use treats and praise to introduce them to all elements of the bath including: The bathtub.

Quality First. Not only do we health test our parent dogs, we also consider their temperament when deciding who to pair together. We will never just breed two dogs for looks. For us, ensuring that we are raising happy, healthy puppies with sound temperaments is extremely important. We pride ourselves in raising some of the best puppies around which means we are dedicated to making sure we are raising the best doodles we can! This starts with our parent dogs that we carefully select and evaluate prior to breeding. They are all health tested to ensure that we are producing top-quality family members with great temperaments. We are also fortunate to be able to raise all of our puppies in our home. We start teaching our puppies to use a potty pad at about 3 weeks old and when the weather is nice they have access to our backyard to go potty! Puppy socialization and enrichment is extremely important throughout the first few months of a puppies life. We are proud to say that our puppies get to be socialized with people of all ages and dogs of different, sizes. They also are exposed to many different enrichment items and sounds! We pride ourselves in raising well-rounded doodles that can fit into any lifestyle! Dedication to raising the best possible puppies that are ready to be a part of your family. Our puppies are handled daily, from the beginning! As they get older, they are also introduced to new textures, sights, and sounds daily. Along with this, we also do tolerance building exercises which include touching their ears, paws, tails, and petting upwards on their back like a younger child may do. Every so often we also have Aussie Mountain Doodles. Welcome to Cottonwood Labradoodles. We are a small breeder located in the heartland of America, 30 minutes north of Wichita and 2. Our mission is to raise puppies with individualized care, with a focus towards preserving the health and loving temperament of the Australian Labradoodle. We are member breeders of the ALAA Australian Labradoodle Association of America , an organization diligent in upholding the integrity of the breed and requires genetic testing of all breeding dogs. We are so excited to announce that the ALAA has awarded Cottonwood Labradoodles the Platinum Paw; the highest health standard possible for our dogs, as well as recurring investment in testing the health of our breeding dogs. All our puppies are born and raised in our home. As they mature, we take great pleasure in introducing them to romps and adventures on our five acres of woods, prairie, and pond. We assist with every delivery and therefore handle each pup from the time they are born until they are placed in your loving arms on Puppy Pickup Day. We find this individualized attention and stimulation creates dogs that are better socialized, more intelligent and physically healthier. This care and supervision of puppies is my passion! Please check in with our Cottonwood Labradoodles Facebook page to brighten your day and watch them grow. For more information, please go to our Request A Puppy page to fill out our application. Joy is a Multigen Australian Labradoodle made right here from our beloved Honey and Journey and is our up and coming Mama to be. She has a beautiful Red wavy, fleece coat. Joy has completed all her health testing to Platinum level with flying colors. Joy has completed several training classes, basic manners, obedience, and even an agility class. She has the best eye contact and loves her belly rubs! Oliver has completed all his health testing to Gold Paw level and is the perfect little gentleman weighing just 25 pounds. We are so excited to see the wonderful puppies these two will produce! We expect puppies from this mating to be small Mediums in size with wavy fleece coats in shades of cream, caramel, apricot, and possibly red and wonderful temperaments. Will confirm exact date once pups are born. This breeder raises the pups underfoot to ensure they are well socialized and loved by everyone. They also provide their dogs with great homes that include fenced yards or individual runs , competent owners, and plenty of love. All of their Labradoodle puppies are raised with other dogs and cats as well as kids. They are very proud of the high quality and attention to the dams, sires, and Labradoodle puppies they produce. This firm ensures that every dog under their care receives adequate care. This breeder has a clean, well-kept acre on which the puppies can run and play with the family. To ensure that each puppy gets all of the nutrients it needs to grow into a healthy dog, KC Labradoodles feeds its pups high-quality dog food. KC Labradoodles produces multigenerational mini and standard-sized labradoodle puppies. Each breeder prioritized health, temperament, training, socialization, and individuality to ensure that all their pups go to homes with families who will provide them with love and attention. You can always visit their websites to see if they have any upcoming Labradoodle litters. In that case, we encourage you to contact one of these 5 best Labradoodle breeders in Kansas. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. We Provide We take care of our puppies and prepare them to go home with you in these ways: Three rounds of dewormer. First veterinarian visit for checkup. Final veterinarian checkup before going home. Tons of socialization and love from a family of six. List of suggestions puppy training, toys, food, veterinarian, etc. And lifetime support, should you need it. Our promise to you is simple: We provide incredible companion Bernedoodles, and we do so with integrity, forthrightness, and assistance to find the best furry family member for you. Before they become part of your household, they are part of ours, so we play with them, provide for them, and treat them as family, knowing you will do the same. Mixed breeds cannot be AKC certified, so we do not provide certification. We also believe microchipping your puppy should be your choice, so we do not microchip our puppies but strongly recommend you do. We highly recommend proper puppy training and consistent reinforcement to have the best relationship with your dog. We provide information on a partner puppy training program with lots of online videos. Bernedoodles are not sold with breeding rights. Any breeding of the Bernedoodle, whether by accident or on purpose, is a violation of the contract and will incur an immediate fee of 3x the purchase price. By instituting any step in the process, the customer acknowledges and agrees to these terms and to paying the contract violation fee in full. Bernedoodles are also sold with a list of both requirements and suggestions for the health, safety, well-being, and longevity of the dog. Customers must take these requirements, suggestions, and financial investments under consideration prior to purchasing a KC Bernedoodles puppy. Reservation Deposit Serious inquiries only. Anyone can be added to the Waiting List with a completed deposit, but KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to the first pick of all litters. Puppy reservations are made in order of cleared deposit. Keep in mind that this means if you send a check by mail, another family could move ahead in line if they pay electronically. We will make every effort to help you make the best decision for your needs. The customer further agrees that they have no recourse. Once the customer has decided they want to purchase a puppy, they must email us stating so. Customers must remit the deposit amount in either cash, check, or through digital deposit. We will provide the account information for the deposit. Cleared deposits are the only way to reserve a puppy; no cleared deposit means no puppy reservation. Deposits are nonrefundable. By instituting any step in the process, the customer acknowledges and agrees to these terms. Deposits are considered a commitment, and we understand that the puppy will have a home with your family. Final payment for the balance owed must be cleared before pickup. Unfortunately, we do not accept checks at the time of pick up for the final payment on a puppy because all payments must be cleared. Any daily boarding charges must also be settled prior to pick up. The only time a refund will be given is if KC Bernedoodles cancels the purchase due to unforeseen circumstances, otherwise deposits are always non-refundable. Puppy Selection Anyone can be added to the Waiting List with a completed deposit, but KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to the first pick of all litters. When the puppies are born, they are given a color-coded collar. Puppies are discussed by their collar color, though our kids have a tendency to name them as well. Exact puppy choice happens by video interactions, exchanging photos, or through phone conversations at week six so their personality has time to develop. We will make every effort to help you make the best decision for your individual needs. For the health of the puppies, we do not allow visitors. Exact puppy choice begins on week six. Waiting this long allows us to get to know their personalities and help guide you to make the best choice. Choosing a puppy occurs in waiting list order. To facilitate all families making timely decisions, each customer has 2 hours from when we contact you beginning on week six to choose your puppy. We make every effort to lead you through the process of choosing the best companion for your individual needs and lifestyle, so please let us know your situation and preferences. Failure to choose within that 2 hours forfeits your turn, and you will move to the end of the line. The key is to let the puppy have the time it needs with its mother and siblings, and transition the puppy to its new family as soon as it is properly able, in order to bond with them early and well. This usually happens at around 8 weeks. By pick up time your puppy will not be dependent upon its mother since it will have been weaned starting around week 4. For the health of our family and animals, we cannot take back a puppy once it has left our home, but we can help you find a new home for them. Please contact us first if the need arises to rehome your puppy. Pick up must occur in person. We currently do not ship puppies, but let us know if you have an extenuating circumstance that needs to be addressed. We love discussing our puppies but we are not a pet store, so we do not ever allow visitors. Puppies can readily catch deadly diseases, such as Parvo, kennel cough, distemper, and many others, which are easily spread from one kennel to another or one dog to another. For the safety of our own home, for the puppies awaiting their new homes, and for puppies who already have deposits on them, we cannot allow visitors. Thank you for understanding! This is not an exhaustive list. No refunds will be given and, though this is rare, we reserve the right to refuse sale of our puppies to anyone, at any time, for any reason, or no reason, based on our own judgment. KC Bernedoodles reserves the right to first pick of all litters. All decisions by KC Bernedoodles are final, as are all sales. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Kansas City Kansas and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. Questions about Labradoodle puppies for sale in Kansas? We have answers. Give me an overview of Labradoodle puppies for sale in Kansas. Our Australian Labradoodles are bred to be even more photogenic and adorable than others, which is probably why lots of our dogs have their own Instagram accounts. When you take home one of our puppies, we consider you our extended family—and we want your life together with your puppy to be long and full of fun! Perfect Family Pet What do retired couples, active outdoorsy types, and families with a lot of kids have in common? Labradoodles fit in just fine with nearly any family, whether you looking for adventure, looking for a friend, or looking for a life of peace and quiet. And one of the best things about working with Uptown is that YOU get to pick! Highest Kansas Labradoodle Breeder Standards Our breeders uphold the highest standards, starting with our mommy dogs. We have both retirement ages and litter limits for our moms, plus we make sure they live in caring guardian homes between litters. And of course, our pups enjoy the best early life we can provide! Elite Kansas Labradoodle Genetic Lines Our Australian Labradoodle lines are truly top-of-the-line, and we work hard so that every litter is as healthy and even-tempered as the last. Besides striving to bring out the best traits in our dogs, we also focus on eliminating harmful genetic illnesses.

Thank you for your interest in our AKC Goldens. See below to join our Farm News for updates on new litters. We accept deposits right here on our website to Hold the Gender of your Choice first paid-deposit, first reserved basis. If you have a preference for which momma you'd like, you can make note of that when placing a deposit. Otherwise, we will notify you when the next litter is available and confirmed through ultrasound! Your new fur baby will be ready to go home at 8 weeks old. The final payment must be made before taking the puppies home. Please join our email subscriber's here. Each puppy has such a precious, unique personality, so we like for our families to have time to interact with them and pick them out in person. We will schedule 1-hour appointments when the puppies are ready to be picked up 8 weeks old. Deposits are non-refundable. You or a flight nanny will need to meet us outside of the airport for puppy pickup. Additionally, If you are unable to fly to pick up the puppy or arrange a flight nanny , we are happy to provide the flight nanny service for you. The Flight Nanny charge is outlined below. Please feel free to message with more questions. We are happy to offer flight nanny service, though! The nanny is either ourselves or someone we personally know and trust. The flight nanny is attuned to your pet's needs and will give special attention to a smooth, caring transition from our farm to your arms. Flight Nanny fee must be paid ahead for scheduling purposes. We are happy to speak through these detail specifics with you. Be sure to watch for our mahogany. Puppy pads Create a Schedule Golden Retriever pups would do well with a schedule. Dogs live with a routine, and they are easy to train by having one. For this reason, make a schedule of the things you need to do regularly. Eventually, your pup will learn the routine events and will make itself adept at them. It will help you prepare for your pet, especially in the first few days of living together. As you allow your pet to adjust, do your best to create a stress-free environment for it. Always supervise it as it familiarizes itself with its new home. It can even grow louder as they age. Moderate Training Golden Retrievers responds well, especially to positive reinforcement. Squeaky Toys Out of all toys, your pet will love the squeaky ones. For this reason, prepare for a lot of loud squeaks every time your pet is active. Thus, in picking your pet, you may want to consider getting it from the best. Tells you any health problems A good breeder will tell you any significant health problems in any of the dogs he or she bred. Asks more questions than you A good breeder would ask for more items from you than you would for him or her. Not in a hurry to send off A good breeder is not in a hurry to send the puppies off and get your money. He or she will even show you other breeders and veterinarians caring for their dogs. Requires expectations on both sides A good breeder will create a contract that offers not only what he or she expects from you. More than that, he or she will also show what you can expect from him or her. Sends puppies properly A good breeder will never send a puppy in a compartment and without any responsible person to go with it. Works only with one or two breeds A good breeder works only with a single or a couple of species. Shows breeding experience A good breeder shows her dogs in recognized confirmation shows. He or she will also join his or her breed in other breed-related performance events. Other states. Pheasant Run Tree Farm Golden Retrievers are one of the friendliest , cutest, and most playful dogs on the planet. They are high on energy and are a bundle of love and affection. They are quick learners and can adapt to any situation easily. Golden Retrievers also gel well with other dogs and kids. This makes them easy-going family pets. Here we list the top 6 breeders in the state to help you find a healthy, happy pup. Read on. They actively breed healthy pups and currently have puppies available. All the Goldie pups at the farm are well-socialized. So they will easily get along with your family. They are also always ready to learn. Most importantly, pups receive their vaccination shots on time and are microchipped. Get home a pup today and enjoy lifelong friendship and love. So you can be sure of getting ethically and responsibly bred pups from here. If you wish to get a Goldie pup from Golden Penny Kennels, you need to fill in the Pup Interest Form on the website and send it to the email address mentioned below. If you want to get a Goldie, get in touch with the kennel. They will be able to recommend other certified and licensed breeders in the state. David, Penny, Derek, and Tara run it. Golden Field Kennels first started as a dog boarding center. Later, the team got its first two female Golden Retrievers for breeding. Their parent dogs all have health clearances and are certified for breeding. The objective of the kennel is to breed high-quality, healthy, pedigreed Golden Retriever pups. In addition, the pups come with health guarantees and are well-socialized. The kennel also offers canine grooming services, including baths, brushing, grooming , nail trimming, and so on. The kennel is in a beautiful country setting. Certainly, the breeders raise the pups here and train them to hunt and retrieve in a fun and gentle way. The owners also get the pups checked by a vet, vaccinated, and registered with the AKC. R Place Kennel also provides pet boarding and obedience training solutions to pet owners. The Humane Society and also many local veterinarians recommend their services. To stay updated on upcoming puppy litters, contact the kennel or follow its Facebook page. It raises healthy, purebred Golden Retrievers. The owners make sure to socialize the pups at an early age. The pups also get vaccinated DAP and dewormed. The breeders allow the pups at the kennel to go to their new homes once they are 7 or 8 weeks old. To get a Goldie pup from here, you need to fill out the Adoption Form on their website and get added to their waitlist. The owners will contact you as and when new litters are available. If you liked our article, do share it with other pet parents or prospective pet owners who may enjoy reading it as well.

This comes at no extra cost to you. As a new Golden Retriever puppy owner, you may be wondering about when important puppy milestones happen, such as: When do they lose their puppy teeth? When do they stop growing? When do they finally stop biting? When do they sleep through the night? These puppy behavior stages and developmental milestones will differ from individual to individual, but this timeline can give you a general understanding of what to expect with your puppy. Day 1: Puppy is born You could also call this the best day ever. After carrying the pups for about 9 weeks , mom is ready to give birth! The average litter size for Golden Retrievers is 8. Their eyesight is very limited, and their soon-to-be-brown eyes are sometimes blue when they first open them. And as you know or will soon find out , they are very sharp. The puppy kibble is soaked in water, mashed up, and introduced to the pups. They work up to eating solid food about four times per day while still nursing from their mother. Because puppies need to complete weaning, most breeders wait until the puppies are 8 weeks to 12 weeks old before they send their pups home with their new owners. You can also start training them at this age the best way to stop bad habits is to not let them start! Getting a Golden Retriever Puppy? Download the Potty Training Cheat Sheet here! The biting phase is one of the toughest behavior stages for puppy owners. Golden Retriever puppies lose their baby teeth at around 4 months of age. Sometimes he would be chewing and then start to play with something on the floor. Most of the time when that would happen we would find a tooth laying there. This depends on the gender and your individual dog. And this is definitely a conversation to have with your vet, as spaying or neutering your Golden Retriever too young can have adverse health effects. Females are typically inches tall, while males are inches tall. It becomes their undercoat. At one and a half years old, Goldens have typically grown out their full coat. Related article:. Leash training begins not with your dog but with your mindset. Goldens are intelligent, people-pleasing dogs. Begin your leash training — and every walk after that — with a calm mindset, and your dog will follow. The leader goes through the door first, so work on proper door etiquette until your puppy or dog has the right idea. This sets up your walk to succeed from the beginning. If you allow your dog to pull you over to greet the dog across the street or to sniff that really lovely tree, your dog is the winner in this tug of war. Instead, when your dog starts pulling, stand in one spot. Beginning this training with puppies makes stopping easier, but plant your feet even with a full-grown dog. Reward walking correctly Choose a very small type of treat your dog only gets on walks and use this to reinforce good behavior. Every so often as your dog walks correctly, praise your golden and dish out a treat. Eventually, wean your dog off the treats but always praise good behavior. Goldens respond really well to this type of verbal confirmation. Walk often Make walks a regular part of your routine. At least once a day, preferably twice, walk your dog for a period of 15 to 30 minutes. This routine is a huge part of keeping your golden leash trained for walks. Put it in your calendar or set a reminder on your phone — whatever it takes to get outside. Remember to always use positive reinforcement. Yelling or other punishment types of motivation could backfire. Your golden may end up with more energy or fear of walking. Step 1: Put the leash on your golden while in the house. If your golden is afraid of the leash, reward him with treats when he allows you to put it on him. Step 2: While inside, walk back and forth with your dog, stopping when he pulls on the leash. This method begins to teach your golden what to expect. We are overjoyed for you! Golden Retrievers are one of the most friendly and loving breeds…and lucky for you, one of the easiest to train. Golden Retrievers require a great deal of mental stimulation to avoid going about on their own or becoming frustrated. Their love for food is infinite. Prerequisites for training my Golden Retriever puppy? What age can I start to train my Golden Retriever puppy? Sounds like a good deal! We can only hope. What do I need to train my Golden Retriever? Say bye to that sticky, meaty feeling in your fingertips. A piece of non-slip vet bed or a soft mat: For a cozy bed, warm nights, and good dreams. Treats: The more smelly, the better. Two identical toys : Great for swaps! The name says it all…your Golden Retriever puppy will love retrieving, so identical toys will be great for all the games we have in store for you in the Zigzag Puppy training app. Of course, Golden Retrievers grow to be big dogs. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? A golden retriever needs 2 hours of exercise a day. What age is a Golden Retriever fully grown? Golden Retrievers reach adulthood at 3 years of age and are seniors by 8 years old. Though their height has been reached, their weight will still fill out and they will continue to mentally mature. What are Golden Retrievers bred for? Distinctly British, the 1st Baron of Tweedmouth developed the breed crossing his golden colored retrieving dog Nous with a Tweed Water Spaniel — these look similar to Irish Water Spaniels. The cross resulted in a dog that was comfortable being on land and water kind of like crocodiles , and robust enough to hunt goose, partridge and even deer. Do Golden Retrievers make good family pets? In fact, Golden Retrievers are one of the most loved dog breeds in the UK. The Kennel Club has a lot more good information and info about them. What does this have to do with how I train my Golden Retriever puppy? But there is a logic as to why knowing the context might help you train your Golden Retriever better: Golden Retrievers love to work. Commonly employed as Guide Dogs, they love having a job to do, which means they will adore training. Anyhow, they will be a breeze to train. They will also do almost anything for your soft words and approval — your praise will work just as well as treats. Because they are so gentle, they are a great fit for families with a variety of lifestyles and ages. They need a good amount of exercise; mental as well as physical. Let us rephrase — a hefty amount of exercise. Besides you and food, being in water is what they love the most! They have a very strong sense of smell, so retrieving or scent work games tend to be the biggest treat for most. Golden Retrievers are the social butterflies of dogs. They love most people, and are not discreet in showing it. You know how us Brits can be about politeness. That being said, make sure you also teach them the wonders of giving things up. It can lead to great things! But it can also be less helpful when they give you a love bite on your arm — give them a toy to carry instead. Shift to some play, and revisit training later — we want training to be associated with fun, and not something they begin to dread. March 13, Golden retrievers are some of the most popular dogs in America. These dogs are so widespread that many shelter mixes also have golden retriever heritage. However, golden retrievers are also some of the most energetic dogs, especially for their size. This guide will help you learn just how much exercise your golden needs for their age and lifestyle. Ideally, you should try to walk a golden retriever every day or every second day. A healthy, young golden retriever needs at least one hour of exercise a day. This exercise can take the form of walks, playtime, or running around in the backyard — whatever works out for you and your family. Basic Exercise Needs for Golden Retrievers If your golden retriever is particularly rambunctious, you might consider upping their exercise to two hours a day. Your golden will let you know when they start to get tired by panting, walking more slowly, and coming to your side for attention. In fact, forcing a small puppy to go for long walks can be incredibly bad for their joints and can cause arthritis later in life. In general, the assumption should be that your golden retriever puppy needs about ten minutes of exercise a day for every month that they are old. This means that a year-old golden retriever should be exercising for an hour and twenty minutes a day, which is the perfect amount for a healthy and happy pup. As golden retrievers start to age, their exercise needs drop drastically. By the time your dog is ten to eleven years old, they may only want to get about half an hour of exercise a day. For many geriatric dog owners, this means taking your pet for a casual daily stroll at a nice and easy pace. Just like humans, dogs stay healthier if they get to participate in a mix of different physical activities. When some owners realize the consequences, they often find it easier to make time for their canine friend. Animals need to move around to burn off calories. Golden retrievers are particularly susceptible to weight gain because they are a food-driven breed. These pups love to dive into their breakfast, beg for scraps throughout the day, perform tricks for treats, and finish everything off with another bowl of kibble before bedtime. However, because golden retrievers love to eat, this tactic can often leave you with an anxious and miserable pup. Instead, the easiest and most positive solution is to take your golden retriever out for more and longer walks every day. Behavior Issues Golden retrievers are high-energy dogs. Some of the main behavior issues that crop up when your dog is bored include barking , chewing, and scratching or digging. Your golden retriever is chewing on things because they are bored and under-stimulated. Try taking your dog out for a second walk, or find another way to increase the length of time you spend with them during your daily routine. Morning or Evening? First, decide whether you want to start or end your day by spending an hour with your dog. Some people love to take their dog out first thing in the morning so that both pet and parent can enjoy the sunrise and crisp, dew-filled air. Other owners feel like a casual stroll around the neighborhood is the perfect way to end a fantastic and productive routine. Either way, try to take your dog out at the same time every day. It allows your pup to build up expectations that they can rely on, which is great for canine psychology. In addition to your regular walks, make a habit of taking your dog on a random extra walk whenever you have the time. A quick jaunt around the neighborhood will make both of you feel better. Related posts:. In some cases, your new pup might not want to walk at all. You should walk your dog 3 times a day after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Puppies need just as much attention as any other pet because they are still learning how to behave. The length of time that you should go for a walk depends on the age of your puppy. Older puppies can go for longer, but younger ones may tire more easily so you should keep an eye on them. What are the benefits of walking a pup? Walking a pup is a great way to provide some much-needed exercise and time alone. If you have a busy schedule and don't have the time to take your dog on regular walks, consider hiring a professional dog walker or a neighbourhood friend. A lot of people are unsure about how long they should walk their dogs. Some people walk their dogs for hours, while others walk them for just a few minutes. As mentioned above, the answer is different for every person and dog. Generally, younger dogs might not have the energy that older dogs will. Try starting with an hour a day and finding a comfortable spot for you and your dog. What are the risks of not taking your pup for walks? If you have a new puppy, it is important for them to get exercise and socialization. If you do not take them for walks, they will feel too cooped up and stressed. They may also develop bad habits like chewing and digging. In some cases, they can even develop a bad habit of not wanting to walk at all. In other words, your dog might become lazy and it can be hard for you to get them into the habit of going on walks again. How much exercise does a pup need per day? A young pup needs an average of 45 minutes to an hour of exercise per day. For this, it's important to choose a time when the pup will have the most energy. Ideally, this should be in the morning or evening when they're most likely to be active. In order for a puppy to stay healthy and happy, it's important that they get enough exercise. Some dog parks allow you to let your dog run around freely. You could also play with your dog using dog toys. Try out a few of these and see what your dog enjoys best. The most important factor is the breed of the dog. Puppies from larger breeds will need more exercise, and therefore need to be walked for longer periods of time. In addition, as mentioned above the age of the pup is a factor too. Puppies that are older will be able to go for longer walks without getting tired, so their walks can last a little bit less than a younger pup's walk. The third factor that affects how long your puppy should go for a walk is the environment in which you live. If you live in an urban area with lots of sidewalks and parks, then your pup will likely be able to go on shorter walks than if they lived in an area with fewer sidewalks and parks available to them. Dogs need a lot of exercise. They are also capable of doing a lot more than just running around in the backyard. Dogs are not just pets, they are our friends and companions. They deserve to be happy and healthy too. That is why their owners should take care of their needs, including exercise requirements. The amount of exercise that your dog needs will vary depending on its size, age, and breed. If you have a small dog like a toy poodle or chihuahua then they will need less exercise than if you have a large dog like an Irish wolfhound or Labrador retriever. The short answer to this question is "it depends". It is important to note that there are many factors that determine the right amount of time you should walk your dog. The first thing to consider is the age and size of your dog. A puppy or a small breed dog might need fewer walks than a larger breed adult dog. The distance you live from a park or other area where your pet can go off-leash also plays a role in how often you need to walk them. In general, minutes per day should be enough for most dogs, but it's always best to consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations. What are the benefits of walking a puppy for longer periods of time? Walking a puppy is important, but walking a puppy for longer periods of time has some additional benefits. The first benefit is that it strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner. The second benefit is that you can get more exercise by walking your pup for an hour at a time, which means you'll be able to do other things that you enjoy. What are the risks of not walking a pup for long enough periods of time? It is important to take your pup for walks on a regular basis, even if it is just for a short period of time. If left alone for extended periods, dogs can become bored. This can lead to separation anxiety and other bad behaviour. What is the Correct Way to Walk a Puppy? It's a common misconception that all dogs need to be walked the same way. In reality, there are many different techniques for dog walking , and it's important to figure out which one is best for your furry friend. Remember that puppies may be very hyper and full of energy. They may want to run off in several different directions. When walking your puppy try to keep them calm and moving. And More! Training a puppy to enjoy their walks can be a challenge. The best way to train your puppy is by using positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a puppy to enjoy their walks. You should start with short, frequent walks and gradually increase the time spent walking every day. Eventually, you will be able to walk your dog for as long as you want without any issues! There is no set time for how long a puppy or senior dog should go for walks. A senior dog should be walked less often than a puppy, but they can still go on long walks. How long should a puppy be walked for compared to adult dogs? Dogs age much faster than humans, meaning that puppies should be walked for a shorter duration than an adult dog. Experts recommend that owners walk their puppy for about 15 minutes per day, and gradually increase the time as they grow. What should you do if your pup is not interested in going on walks? There are many ways to get your pup walking. I've found that playing with a favourite toy or throwing a handful of treats on the ground will usually do the trick. It's not easy to teach a dog how to walk on a leash. But don't give up, it takes some time and patience! Walking your puppy is a great way to keep them healthy and happy. So, start walking your puppy today! More Training. Sep 13, Sep 20, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Our goldens are such high-energy dogs. In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, they require exercise. They need more exercise than many dogs. Of course, the amount and type of exercise will vary based on their age, genetics, health, and overall health and fitness. He may become destructive or he may gain weight. So, to keep him healthy and happy, he should be well-exercised. Even adult goldens may chew the wrong items like your furniture and dig in your garden when under-exercised. Or they may bark excessively, jump on counters or people even when trained not to, or be mouthy. Also, he may gain too much weight. This can lead to heart disease, risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and damage to hips and elbows. A dog who receives enough exercise has toned muscles. Exercise also keeps his body and metabolic system functioning properly and engages his mind. Of course, puppies, adult goldens, and seniors will require various amounts and types of exercise. But generally golden retrievers, being sporting dogs meant to work, need more exercise than many breeds. Genetics enter into the equation. This can also help you determine what type of exercises to include in his regimen. So a three-month-old puppy should receive no more than 15 minutes of exercise up to two times a day. And break up the time he plays. For example, have a short minute walk and, after a break, a three-minute fetch session. Then, after another break, a two-minute training session. Vary the activities. Doing all these activities will not only help your pup exercise, but it will also help further your bond. My rescued golden retriever Riley came to me when he was about six months old. To say that he was energetic would be an understatement. He would jump on us, be mouthy, and generally destructive when he arrived. Of course, he needed training. But I also had to meet his exercise needs so that we could have a great relationship. So I took him on long walks, played fetch with his Kong ball, played tug and release, and played with puzzle toys. He also played with my other dogs. And he went to daycare two or three days or half-days per week. Between mental and physical exercise, he became the great dog he was meant to be. He enjoys life, loves everyone, and is very well-behaved wherever he goes. But he was worth it. Of course a young adult or one from hunting lines may need more. They may even need an hour-and-a-half or two hours per day. Just like us, goldens are individuals. But others may still be very active at 10 years old. Of course, some goldens are still very active at that age and beyond. But how much and the type of exercise they should engage in depends on their general health. The same is true of goldens with disabilities. They still require a sufficient amount of exercise according to their needs. Types of Exercise for Your Golden Of course both physical and mental exercise are required to have a healthy dog. There are many choices that will help your dog be fit and happy. Always monitor your dog to see if he seems too tired or appears to be injured. Stop and seek veterinary advice. Start out slowly and add time over many sessions as your pup can handle it. Vary the exercises. Some can be performed inside as well as outside. So even on a rainy day, you can sufficiently exercise your dog and meet his needs. Walking or Running Of course, you should first teach your dog to walk on a loose leash before exercising him on a leash. Walks at a natural pace are best for most goldens. Start with short walks, increasing them over time. Avoid walks on the hottest or coldest part of the day. Always walk on safe footing and avoid slippery or sharp surfaces. Of course, running is another matter. The pounding may be too much. Running on soft running paths or level grass can be alright for some dogs. Of course, a full vet checkup should occur before starting any running program with your beloved golden retriever. Some people jog with a dog. Others may skate or ride a bike with their golden alongside. Of course, some dogs enjoy hiking with their people. There are many sights and smells for a dog to enjoy. Play Groups Your puppy or dog can also get a lot of varied exercise playing with appropriate dog playmates. Dogs romp and wrestle together. You can set up your own or join in to well-run dog playgroups or even dog daycares. Playing With Your Dog You can play fetch with your dog if he knows how to retrieve and give up the toy on cue. He may even fetch a favorite ball. Or play tug with a toy like a rope or fleece toy if your dog will take it and release it on cue. The options are limitless. You can play hide and seek with your golden while inside. You can heel with him, have him come on cue, or teach him to wave! Mentally Stimulating Toys There are many activity toys you can buy or you can make your own. Some are puzzle toys where your golden seeks out kibble or treats. Or treat-dispensing balls. If you or a friend has a swimming pool, you can teach your dog to swim. They make life vests for safety. Start him in shallow water and build from there, with you accompanying him. Always make sure that he knows where the steps are and how to get out of the water. My golden Spencer used to like to swim in the bay when we vacationed at the shore. He was a great swimmer, but he wore a doggy life vest and I had him on a long-line for safety. There are also dog facilities like boarding and daycares and vet hospitals that have facilities where your pup may swim. Swimming provides a great cardio workout as well as being easier on joints than many land exercises. This can be good for dogs with joint problems and arthritis. In fact, aqua therapy is often used for dogs who need physical rehabilitation from injuries or surgery. The following suggestions can be performed in competitions or just for fun and exercise. You can even join a dog training club or take courses to learn how to perform these activities. There are so many choices, including: Lure coursing, where a dog chases after a plastic bag attached to a lure that whizzes by on a specially designed course. Sight hounds often participate in this sport. Scent work, in which a dog finds something by scent. Agility, where a dog learns to run a designated course with tunnels, weave poles, dog walks, and teeter totters. Flyball, where a dog learns to jump over a course of jumps and retrieve a ball. Rally obedience, in which you train your dog to walk through a course accompanied by you. He performs certain tasks at each sign on the ground that you encounter. He may have to sit and lie down and perform other obedience exercises throughout the course. Dock diving is a sport in which goldens and labs excel—usually being water-loving dogs. He stays on the dock, awaiting your command. He then runs along the dock and flings his body into the water to retrieve the toy. In competition, the goal is to have the longest jump possible. You should be able to feel his ribs without seeing them. Some occasional zoomies are natural. And he should also be able to listen and pay attention to you and to perform known commands, Too much exercise can be as bad as not enough. Final Thoughts Just like us, goldens need physical and mental exercise to remain healthy. It will also further the bond with your four-legged best friend. How much exercise does your golden receive? What activities have you tried? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Without adequate exercise, few puppies will be able to control their energy. Families see an out-of-control puppy and immediately think exercise is the answer to their problem. Often it is, but exercise can also be overdone. There is a balance. The information below has exercise guidelines for large breed puppies along with a broad range of various ways for your puppy to get that exercise. Make sure that you have a fenced area or that you are far from any place that cars or other dangers might be. For off-leash strolls, let the puppy set the pace. If he lies down, let him rest. Here are a few general guidelines. Keep in mind that puppies that are used to active lifestyles can handle longer excursions. Conversely, puppies that have not had opportunity to exercise off leash need to start off at a slower pace. For your average puppy, start off with minutes for an 8-week old puppy. Increase to up to 20 minutes for week old puppies. By the time your puppy is 6 months, the time can be increased up to as much as 45 minutes and for a month-old puppy, you can go for as long as an hour as long as you are going at a slow pace with plenty of opportunities for your puppy to sniff around. If you miss a week or two of the work, decrease your distance when starting back and gradually build up the distance again. This long distance exercise must be off-leash so that your puppy can take breaks and slow down as needed. The puppy must set the pace. Forced running on a leash is never good for a growing puppy. Leash Walks as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Leash walking can be a good form of exercise when certain criteria are met. First puppies need to be trained and socialized to the environment. Second, leash walks need to be done in a certain way. Leash walking can be overdone. One of the biggest causes of growth plate and soft tissue injury in young puppies is repetitive exercise. Leash walks for puppies must be broken up with training sessions or opportunities for free off-leash play or time to sniff around on the leash. At 3 months, you can go for 20 minutes and at 6 months, you can walk up to 30 minutes. You must be much more careful with leash walking since you and not the puppy control the pace. Leash walking provides an excellent way of combining a little bit of physical exercise with mental exercise, obedience training, socialization, and environmental desensitization. It is a fantastic way to introduce a puppy to his world. It gives a bit of exercise while at the same time giving opportunities for socialization and training. However, strolls on a leash are not enough. Puppies must have an opportunity to run and play. Again, off-leash walks are best if your goal in your walk is to provide adequate exercise. A week old Golden Retriever puppy will have a neck that is about 12 inches. Get a collar of any brand that includes 12 inches in the size range. An adult female will have about an 18 inch neck. A male adult will need a collar that fits a 20 inch neck. Similarly running on a treadmill or any other types of forced running are not appropriate forms of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Free Play as Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Free play is always an excellent form of exercise for a golden retriever puppy. Dogs and puppies of all ages can play as long they like in your safely contained yard. If your puppy is playing with another dog in the family, make sure you supervise their play until you are sure that they play well together and that the older dog is not too rough. End the play if the other dog is getting too rough, if your puppy is starting to annoy the other dog, or if your puppy shows signs that he is ready to quit playing. Strange dogs are not worth the risk. Getting on the ground or running around with your puppy can be one of the best ways to exercise your puppy. Fetch and tug can be options if played within certain guidelines. Whether you are playing tug or fetch or just running around with your puppy, there are a couple of rules that need to be followed. Instead, ignore him. Wait until your puppy is behaving. Then, once you begin playing with your puppy, periodically, stop the game and make him gain control of himself before resuming the game. Ask him to do a simple behavior such as a sit or a down. Then start playing again. We recommend teaching your puppy the game of fetch at a young age. Going and getting a toy, bringing it back, and giving it to you is easier to teach when they are young. Chasing balls causes puppies to twist, roll, jump, and tumble while trying to grab a moving ball. Instead, use toys. Then, combine your game of fetch with a game of tug. Tug is discussed in detail in another section. Once your puppy has learned to tug, teach your puppy a release command. Save longer throws for your dog until after he is over 2 years of age. Teach The Wait Command Once your puppy has learned to bring a toy back to you reliably, you can begin teaching your puppy to safely retrieve a ball. Before moving from a toy to a ball, teach a wait command. Playing fetch with a dog with a wait command is a tremendous exercise. It not only provides physical exercise, but it also provides a super opportunity for a puppy to learn self-control. Here is how to teach it. I like to use what is called a pull tab. A pull tab is a very short leash that you attach to a collar. Pull tabs are typically 6 inches or shorter. A pull tab is long enough to give you control over your dog, but short enough for the dog to be able to run and play with it dangling from his collar. Once the dog relaxes and I require a sit as well , throw the ball. When the dog is dependable with regard to waiting on the release, you can do away with the tab. Having a dog wait before chasing a ball is a necessity with puppies because it eliminates the problem of the dog twisting, turning, and diving for a moving object. Fetch is a great exercise for an adult. Once a dog is over 2, you can begin throwing balls and even add a Chuck-it ball thrower to your game. Tug as a Form of Exercise for a Golden Retriever Puppy Tug is a very good exercise for dogs of all ages except for during the stage when puppy teeth are coming out and new adult teeth coming in to replace them. Make sure you stop before he looses his first teeth at around 4 months. Tug can then be resumed when all adult teeth are in. The most current training recommendations for tug no longer include the idea that the dog can never win and that you must always be in charge. This is not true. Consider a child racing his Dad down the street. The Dad lets the child win and the child beams. It gives the child confidence and makes him want to be faster and better. The same holds true with puppies. Let them win when they do a good job! The Release Once a puppy is tugging vigorously and understands the game, you can teach a release cue. Teach this by making the tug toy become motionless and no fun. Just keep the toy still until the dog opens his mouth on his own. Then immediately give the toy back to the dog and start the tug game again. Begin integrating the release into your play session in such a way that you are giving the toy back far more often than not. The dog needs to associate his releasing the toy with a restart to the game, not an end to it. It encourages forced running, jumping, and twisting, all bad for the growing puppy. Frisbee throwing can be dangerous for any dog, but especially for a puppy. We personally never play frisbee with our dogs. There are many other better exercise choices. Digging Digging is actually a very good exercise for a puppy though it may not be so good for your lawn! If you should have a place that your puppy can dig, maybe a soft spot in the corner of your yard, train him that that place and only that place is his digging spot. Puppies Should Avoid Full Flights of Stars Your Summer Brook puppy will be trained shortly before changing homes to safely navigate a set of 3 or 4 steps. If your set of steps is more than half a full flight, we require that you carry him up them until he is 4 months old. Even after this, we recommend keeping him off the steps as often as possible. Dogs tend to get excited and fly down them, often leaping over 4 or 5 of them at a time. This can result in injury. As with so many other repetitive or impactful activities, we highly recommend waiting until growth plates are closed. Baby gates can be a huge help until that time. Swimming Swimming is super exercise for a Golden Retriever puppy and most dogs enjoy playing fetch in the water. See our website page on teaching a puppy to swim for more information. This includes jumping up on and off of furniture until he is fully grown and growth plates are closed. Growth Plates and Exercise We have mentioned quite a few times on this page the importance of limiting certain activities with your puppy until his growth plates are closed. Some of you might be wondering what growth plates are and why they matter with regard to exercise. What Are Growth Plates? Growth plates are soft areas that are at the ends of the long bones in puppies. These growth plates gradually get thinner until they completely close. The closure of growth plates is brought on by hormonal changes during puberty. When growth plates close, they harden as they calcify and the rapid cell division stops. The growth plates become what is called an epiphyseal line. The epiphyseal line is sturdy and not so prone to injury as the growth plates. These are collectively referred to as soft tissue. In an adult, when there is a soft tissue injury, a sprain will result. However, in a puppy, the soft tissue is stronger than the growth plates. An injury that would only cause a sprain in an adult dog could cause an injury to the growth plate in a puppy. The soft tissue can actually pull the growth plate apart. Growth plate injuries can sometimes not heal properly and keep a dog from growing straight and strong which can subject him to problems for his entire life. Conclusion Although you need to be much more careful with the type of exercise you provide your puppy, exercise is still very important to a growing puppy. Appropriate exercise is key to building strong bones. Another key to good puppy development and a relaxed puppy is mental exercise. Give your puppy appropriate physical exercise and give your puppy a long life with healthy bones and joints. For more information on our puppies, see our page on Golden Retriever puppies. Primary Sidebar Breeders and Trainers of English Golden Retrievers We focus on breeding and training beautiful English Golden Retriever puppies with health tested champion parents, great pedigrees, and fantastic temperaments.