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We specialize in a medium size, and will also have standard and mini size as well for families looking for the perfect puppy companion in Phoenix, Arizona and nationwide. Learn our reservation and application process here and join our email list for updates! Our puppies will have low to extremely low shedding, wavy to curly coats, always with furnishings weak to strong , for the doodle and poodle looks. The puppies are raised in our home and go through curriculum starting on day three. The pups go through ENS day , and then daily exposure to new items, noises, sights, people, etc for the remaining weeks. They will be introduced to potty training and kennel training, all using resources from Badass Breeder and Puppy Culture. We then temperament test the puppies at 7 weeks so you have a snapshot into their characteristics and personality coming home to you. Second, we want to help our families prepare and be educated on everything they need to successfully add their new puppy into their family. We want to help give our families all the resources they need to educate themselves on bringing home and raising a new puppy. We also are passionate about transparency to help build trust. Each of our pups go home with an embark genetic and coat DNA panel so you know exactly the type of pup you have. Plus, we encourage families to stay in touch and reach out whenever they have any questions at any time. We also will continue to grow our blog for resources for families. Learn about puppy pick-ups, flight nannies, or traveling out of state in our Info and FAQs page. Daisy Mountain Doodles is a breeder of goldendoodle, bernedoodle, and poodle puppies located in Phoenix, Arizona. We are committed to professionalism, ethical practices and raising healthy and happy puppies in the most loving homes possible. This unique color may be red parti, chocolate parti, black parti, cream parti, merle parti, apricot parti, or phantom parti. The choices are almost endless. Merle Goldendoodle — This beautiful color is a combination of various colors. Phantom Goldendoodle — Super hard to find phantom Goldendoodles comprise two colors — a base shade solid chocolate or solid black and a lighter one. The lighter points are usually to be found above the eyes eyebrows , on the side of the chest, muzzle, inside the legs and under the tail. Most phantom Goldendoodles are commonly black and tan, but this can vary, e. While these dogs look either brown or black at birth, even at this early time, the root of the hair is much lighter than the tip. Sable Goldendoodles tend to hold onto their dark color around the face and ears. The rest of their coat settles into more of a cream or tan shade, although always with darker tips and lighter roots. This makes for a unique-looking dog! Abstract Goldendoodles — Dogs with abstract coats are mostly one single color be it any of the ones outlined above with touches of white. These are usually found on their face and around their chest and paws. Such dogs are also referred to as mismarked. Tuxedo Goldendoodles — Tuxedo Goldendoodles are another two-color mix. Any of the above colors are combined with white. However, the white is concentrated around the chest and front legs. This gives the pup the appearance of wearing a tuxedo hence the name. As you can imagine, these dogs are popular because of their distinctive appearance — especially when in black and white. Their markings are apparent from birth. Although, naturally, the white splotches often begin small and get more prominent as the dog matures. This unique pattern of dark and light coat is arranged in such a way as to make the dog look like it has tiger stripes. While the width and color of these stripes vary from dog to dog, in Goldendoodles, it usually takes the form of a black or brown base coat with lighter colored stripes. Tri-Colored Goldendoodles — With the increasing amount of multigenerational Goldendoodles, color options are becoming ever more varied. However, it is very usual in other types like Bernedoodles from the Bernese Mountain Dog. They usually have a little of another breed in them — one that does carry the tri-color gene. Is one coat color or pattern better than another? Web Support T Is one coat color or pattern better than another? In all honesty, with no coat color or pattern being better than any other in terms of health and behavior, your choice of Goldendoodle should be based on temperament over looks. However, everyone has different preferences about these things. So, once you have ascertained that the puppies you are checking out are all good, you can choose the one that looks best to you. Usually, the intensity is reduced, and black dogs switch to gray or silver while red ones dull down to apricot or cream. There is no right or wrong answer to this question. Over the years I have discovered that there is very little difference between genders in terms of personality. I have males and females that are both sweet, smart, friendly, playful, loyal, gentle, etc. I also have some males and females that are highly energetic, mischievous, barkers, toy destroyers, etc. Frequently Asked Questions What is the temperament of a Goldendoodle? Goldendoodles are an intelligent and obedient family companion. They are friendly towards children, other dogs and pets, and easy with strangers. They are social dogs, happiest when with people. Goldendoodles are likely to get into mischief and develop behavior problems if they spend most of their lives alone. Their intelligence, eagerness to please, and love of learning make them very easy to train. Do Goldendoodles need grooming? Web Support T Do Goldendoodles need grooming? As a hybrid cross, Goldendoodles will inherit fur that looks retriever-like, or poodle-like, but usually something in-between. Unclipped Goldendoodles will have hair about inches long, shorter on the face and longer on the body, tail and legs. Without grooming, painful mats can form and your adorable pup will look neglected and unkempt. Expect to thoroughly comb or brush your Goldendoodle regularly all the way down to the skin. A curly coat will require more brushing than a straight or wavy one. Head to a professional groomer every six to eight weeks or so. How much exercise does a Goldendoodle need? Web Support T How much exercise does a Goldendoodle need? Goldendoodles are energetic, active dogs. Of course, some will be more active than others, but like all dogs, if not given moderate amount of exercise each day, they can easily get into trouble. Plan on your Goldendoodle needing at least two minute periods of exercise per day. This can be accomplished through various means, such as brisk walks, jogging, hiking, swimming, agility work, or just good old-fashioned backyard playtime. Although exercise is needed, they can easily adapt to a life in the city or on a farm or anything in between. What colors and patterns can a Goldendoodle be? Web Support T What colors and patterns can a Goldendoodle be? With a name like Goldendoodle, one might think that gold is the only color they come in, but nothing could be further from the truth! Goldendoodles come in a variety of colors, including black, chocolate, red, white, apricot, cream and brown. In addition to the wide variety of colors, Goldendoodles can also be found in a variety of patterns, including merle, brindle, phantom, sable, and parti. The Poodle and Golden Retriever ancestry both bring apricot, red, and cream to the mix. The same gene controls all three of these colors, but the intensity of the inherited gene is what determines the shade of the color. Poodles also bring dark brown chocolate , black, gray, and silver, as well as the patterns, to the mix. We specialize in breeding Mini Goldendoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other high quality breeders that raise mini goldendoodle 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! Not all mini Goldendoodles are equal, there are a few different versions to choose from each having a little different genetic background based on the pups parents. We will explain all the differences in Mini Goldendoodle puppies and how they are bred below. We raise all versions of the mini goldendoodle breed. F1 Mini Goldendoodle Pups. A F1 puppy is also known as a First Generation puppy. The puppies mother is a Golden Retriever and the pups dad is a Mini Poodle. This version of mini goldendoodle usually has soft wavy or curly puppy fur. They will shed until they lose their puppy fur, after shedding they will shed a lot less, but will shed. This version is partially hypoallergenic and usually requires low maintenance. F1 mini goldendoodles usually need to be groomed every 6 months along with daily brushing to keep their curly hair from matting and getting tangled. The dogs usually grow up having great temperaments similar to golden retrievers. They usually get about inches high at the shoulder and range in weight from pounds. F1b Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1b is known as a second-generation mini goldendoodle with the pups mother being already an F1 Goldendoodle and the pups dad being a mini poodle also. So the difference between F1 and F1b is that the mom is not a golden retriever but an actual F1 Goldendoodle. They also have very soft curly hair but with almost no shedding. This F1b version is semi-hypoallergenic and a better choice for anyone who has pet allergies. The F1b also should be brushed on a daily basis but will need to be groomed more frequently then a F1. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is recommended to keep their coat in perfect condition. F1b Mini goldendoodles get around 18 to 20 inches tall at the shoulders and range between pounds in weight. F1bb Mini Goldendoodle Pups. An F1bb goldendoodle is also known as a third-generation mini goldendoodle. This mini goldendoodle version has a coat more similar to a poodle than of a golden retriever. This is because the pup is more of a poodle than a retriever. Making it the very best version for anyone with pet allergies. A 6 to 8 week grooming schedule is required to help prevent knots or matting. This version is super intelligent and loving, and usually seems to have more energy than the other versions of Mini goldendoodles. This version is usually smaller in size, weighing around pounds and only getting inches tall at the shoulders. The smaller size makes them a great size for smaller homes and apartments. So if you live near Phoenix Arizona and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Goldendoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Goldendoodle Pups that have been adopted! As the smaller poodle hybrids grew in popularity and success, Golden Retriever breeders decided to breed them with the standard poodle for a larger family pet. They are extremely smart, so they learn quickly, and they love children and other pets. Discover more about our Goldendoodle puppies for sale below! Most Goldendoodles are a first-generation cross, as such, they exhibit hybrid vigor — a phenomenon in animal breeding referring to the fact that the first cross between two unrelated purebred lines is healthier and grows better than either parent line. Vigour lessens with each successive generation. The most common colors for Goldendoodles are black, brown, gray, red, white and yellow and most are light to non-shedding. A Note on Hypoallergenic Traits Poodles have a reputation for being hypoallergenic, meaning they can supposedly be tolerated by people who have dog allergies. That being said, allergies are not caused by dogs themselves but by dander, the dead skin cells shed by all dogs and people. Goldendoodles tend to have less dander though than other breeds. Most Goldendoodles do have a low to non-shedding coat making them more tolerable for people with allergies. The Goldendoodle may shed less than a golden retriever, but the degree of shedding will vary from dog to dog. Grooming requirements are as varied as coat types, but most doodles require regular brushing to avoid matting. A dog with a coat that sheds less will require more grooming than one that sheds more often. Our Goldendoodle puppies come from responsible and reputable breeders! This is important, so you know you are getting the best hybrid puppy from healthy and happy parents. Your Goldendoodle will be a mid-sized, fluffy, cheerful canine companion who is not too high maintenance but is energetic enough to share an active lifestyle. Living Conditions The Goldendoodle is great for owners who do not want to deal with hair in their cars and homes. You can train them easily, though they are not going to do well in an apartment because they are large and full of energy. Expect fewer repetitions when training this breed. They have a wonderful, cheerful and playful temperament and they will do just fine with kids and other pets. This dog will bark and alert its owners when an intruder is present, so they make great family pets and watchdogs. Disposition Goldendoodles make marvelous family dogs. If left unattended in a crate or elsewhere for long periods of time, a Goldendoodle will become bored and lonely and may become depressed and destructive. Goldendoodles often have an uncanny ability to communicate with their people. Some have even been trained as guide dogs. Goldendoodles are active and need regular exercise. This is a great breed for kids and is known to be playful and affectionate around them.

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. You can find more information about our Doodle prices on the dedicated pricing page. Is Bernedoodle the right breed for Kansas City? Yes, it is the right breed for Kansas City. Frankly, given its high intelligence, moderate activity levels, and calm temper, a Bernedoodle is a perfect dog for any environment. As for whether Kansas City is a dog-friendly city, it is. How can I know when the new Bernedoodle litter will be available? There are two ways to know whether we have a new Bernedoodle litter available. One is visiting our website and browsing through the list of available pups. You can then directly reserve your puppy from there. And what if there are no new puppies for sale? What are Bernedoodles a mix of? The Bernedoodle is a designer breed that derives from two different parent breeds — The Bernese Mountain Dog and Poodle. The first person to successfully breed these two dogs was Sherry Rupkie, who achieved his goal in .As for Bernedoodle puppies themselves, they take all the best traits of their dog parents. Bernedoodles are highly intelligent, calm but relatively active, and capable of quickly learning new tricks and behaviors. All these traits make Bernedoodles perfect dogs for practically any household, as they are great around both adults and children. What is the difference between a Bernedoodle and Goldendoodle? What is the difference between the two? Although both breeds share the same mother — a Standard or Mini Poodle, the difference is the father. Besides these key differences, Bernedoodles and Goldendoodles share numerous similarities. They are both highly intelligent and lively breeds, although Goldendoodles require slightly more exercise as they are more active. Besides that, both breeds are great around children and adults, and they can be easily socialized with other dogs. We have been uniting beautiful puppies with happy families since .We take pride in raising some of the best looking, healthiest pups you will find! We have grown very fond of the wonderful traits that the doodle's possess. We have also enjoyed raising our pups, seeing them go to their new homes, and meeting new people. Our website stays up to date. Visit our Puppies link to see any available or upcoming Mini Bernedoodle and Cockapoo puppies. We have placed our pups in homes from New York to California, and even a few in Alaska… so getting them to you is not a problem. We also have Paypal available, so anyone can make a safe and easy deposit on your puppy through our website today! Thanks for visiting, and we hope you enjoy seeing our babies! Feel free to contact us anytime with questions! This is known as an F1 Mini Bernedoodle, which is a first generation cross that is considered to be the healthiest of all Bernedoodle crosses. Our Mini Bernedoodles typically range from lbs full grown. Every Bernedoodle can have a slightly different coat. Most of them have a good blend from the parents that ends in a wavy coat that is typically low to non-shedding. We test our mini poodle sires to make sure they carry the furnishings and curly coat, so that they may be able to pass that on to their offspring. Our Miniature Cockapoos typically weigh in the lbs range. The Cockapoo has a coat that combines different aspects of the Poodle and Cocker Spaniel coats. Our Cockapoos will be a variety of colors… you can see all of our parents and their beautiful colors on this website. View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Kansas City Missouri and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups!

If you will be gone for hours a day at work, a larger kennel system is a good idea. My girl Aura loves her crate which is like a little den for her. I leave the door open and she goes in it often when she wants to get away from it all. She has the 48x32x35 Petmate Ultra Vari listed above. I work from home and she is rarely locked up in it. What is the best material for a German Shepherd crate? The sliverylake is steel and the Zinger Winger is heavy duty aluminum. The aluminum crate is lighter weight. My girl Aura uses the Petmate crate which is plastic. This kennel breaks down into two pieces. If she just pressed her back against it it would fall right apart and she would be free. Which crate is best for travel? I have a truck and the Petmate crate travels easily for me. I just break it down into two pieces which sit inside of eachother and throw them in the bed of the truck and off I go. Before that I used a folding metal crate. Our other car is an SUV with plenty of room although this will not fit into the trunk of a Honda Accord. Final thoughts on German Shepherd Crates: Crates should always be a happy and safe place for your dog. Never use the crate as a punishment. When I had puppies, they would fight over who got to use the crate and these days my 8 year old German Shepherd goes in and out of her crate several times per week whenever she feels like it. Crates are also amazing tool for potty training puppies. Buy a larger crate so that it continues to comfortably house your dog as they grow. A full-grown German Shepherd needs space to stand, sit, lie down, and stretch. Not to mention, turn around with ease. And most inch crates come with a wire divider for keeping your German Shepherd puppy in a smaller area as they potty train. This can cause joints and muscles to stiffen. An area too small can lead to tightness and stiffness, increase anxiety, and cause long-term joint damage if excessively used. But an area that is too large just takes up extra space. Contrary to what others may say, a puppy or smaller dog will go into a larger crate. You can easily use this metal divider to block off an area that is too large if it bothers you or your German Shepherd. All of the wire kennels on this page are recommended since they have free dividers included except the heavy-duty cage model. Is crating your German Shepherd cruel? For some owners who are new to the notion of crate training, confinement in such a small space might seem cruel or even a punishment. But free-roaming dogs in the wild seek shelter in small, covered spaces for safety from predators and environmental harm. Using the natural history of wild dogs, you can see how German Shepherds can easily be trained to view their kennel or crate as a safe cave or their own private home away from home. You can help them maintain this cozy space since you can take most crates with you wherever you and your German Shepherd go. Your German Shepherd puppy can even be trained to sleep quietly in their crate at night, giving them a warm spot that keeps you from accidentally tripping over them if they were left out and got under your feet. Do you want to learn how to easily crate train your dog using toys? The most common crate varieties are wire crates, plastic crates, and metal reinforced crates for escape artists. Wire crates are great for dogs to travel in or for camping. Keep in mind that wire crates are larger, so they tend to need more space for set-up. I prefer wire crates, as they fold flat for storage and are more economical to purchase. They also tend to last longer and stand up to the wear and tear of life with a German Shepherd. Plastic crates may feel more secure for your dog, as the walls are largely solid compared to the wire crates. But, plastic crates large enough for a German Shepherd tend to be more expensive, not last as long, and are better suited to short times during travel than for more frequent home use. Both plastic and metal crates can be strengthened using strategically placed zip ties to prevent rambunctious puppies and adult dogs from pushing apart the frame. For an escape artist, a rugged not collapsible reinforced preferably welded metal crate is best. These cages are humane when used for short periods of time to keep your German Shepherd from escaping and hurting themselves while unsupervised. They are bulky and need more space than wire or plastic crates, but will last you a lifetime. Some owners are inclined to choose a large-sized crate to give the dog lots of room, but they fail to remember to also make sure they have a wire divider to make the sleeping space smaller. Always opt for a wire divider that you can adjust and move as your German Shepherd grows into her larger crate. Once your dog is fully potty trained a larger crate will prove more useful as they have more room to stretch out and enjoy their comfortable private bedroom. Crate Location I advise placing the crate in an area of your house where both you and your German Shepherd can access it effortlessly at any time needed. I usually place a crate right beside my bed when I have a new puppy. I set another crate in a corner of my living room where I spend the most time during the day working or relaxing. Using two different locations for a crate is not only convenient, but it gives your German Shepherd the opportunity to find a spot away from family and noise should they want time to themselves. In particular, you must immediately clean their space when they soil the area or are sick in their crate. Step 1: Remove their toys, beds, blankets and all of the objects from their crate. Set the items to the side and wipe down their toys, cleaning them regularly with pet-safe disinfectant if they have any urine or feces on them. You can find some great toys for German Shepherds to replace the old, worn-out ones. Step 2: Wash their soft bedding materials. This is especially important if they have an accident in the crate, and it should be done as soon as possible to avoid cross-contamination to other items in the crate or house. Be sure the bedding is fully dry before replacing it back into the clean crate. Your dog should also have a German Shepherd bed to relax on when outside of their crate, and a crate mat or pad when inside their crate. Step 3: Dry the crate outside or in a well-ventilated area. I suggest washing the crate outside, with your garden hose. If you are unable to go outside, choose a room with tile floors that are easier to mop up, such as your kitchen, bathroom, or mud and laundry room. The room needs proper ventilation so that the cage can dry quickly. Use clean cloth towels or paper towels to wipe down the parts to help dry the crate quicker. Step 4: Finding the right cleaning solution. This is critical as some cleaning solutions are harmful and can make your dog sick if they are exposed to it. Never clean their crate with ammonia because ammonia tends to smell like urine to dogs. You could unintentionally encourage them to urinate in the crate if you clean it with ammonia. Here are a couple of good do-it-yourself cleaning solutions that you can mix up at your own home to save some money. Place the following in a spray bottle to make your own homemade crate cleanser: Squirt one part dish detergent to ten parts of warm water Use half a cup of white vinegar to one-gallon warm water Add half a cup of bleach to a gallon of cool water Always take safety precautions when mixing your own chemicals at home. Your GSD needs to have a soft place to rest, enough space to relax, and a comfortable temperature. Place the crate in an area out of busy zones. A quiet corner in the living room is good. Make sure the area has plenty of ventilation, but no cold drafts. Use a cover if needed. Use treats and praise when your dog is in the crate. Let your dog enjoy his meals in the crate while supervised. This creates a positive feeling with the kennel. Offer your dog a special toy to chew or play with when in the kennel. Make sure the toy is safe and supervise his toy time. Their collar can get caught between the bars or wire and cause significant damage to your dog! Use a PetSafe Breakaway Collar to prevent any unforeseen accidents! The breakaway collar stops your dog from hanging themselves by releasing them automatically. Dogs are more agile in their crates than you could imagine, especially puppies, and they get themselves in problems with their collars when you least expect it. Hit, kick, or strike the crate. With or without your dog in it, this creates a fear of the crate. Keep your dog in its kennel for more time than needed. Long times in a kennel can cause anxiety. Leave the kennel in the sun. Your home can get hot enough to cause overheating problems if left in a sunny spot for too long! Your dog could have problems eating the treat or tear the toy and eat it. Yell at your dog when in the kennel or use the area as punishment. A kennel is a safe spot, not a bad zone. German Shepherds are natural den animals source. They prefer and want a safe place to hide or even relax. A crate provides both safety and relaxation for your pet. They prevent unforeseen accidents, like the destruction of your property. Or worse, harm to your dog from staying alone all day left to their own devices. Items to consider when buying your dog a crate: Escape artists need a model made from solid steel While the average dog can get away with a heavy gauge wire kennel Remember, the lower the number on the wire gauge, the greater the strength. They are a great tool for house training and traveling. Need an easy step-by-step guide to teaching your German Shepherd to love their new den? Then follow this helpful guide to crate train your German Shepherd to help save yourself time and stress of using a kennel with your dog. Answering these questions before buying allows you the best outcome: Will you need the crate to be lightweight enough to take for holidays or hotel travels? Does your German Shepherd escape traditional wire kennels? Will you need a crate with two doors to allow multiple entrances? What size will you and your dog feel most comfortable with? Crates are also useful training aids to help puppies learn to be left alone or to encourage house training — but crates should never be used as a punishment. The best crates for a German Shepherd are:. Aug 31, Share Crates are great training tools for puppies and can become a comfort for adult and senior dogs. By nature, dogs will seek out smaller spaces to help them feel protected and secure while allowing them to relax and feel comfortable. Most veterinarians, trainers, and breeders recommend crate training dogs starting at puppyhood. German Shepherds are strong, intelligent working dogs. You will need to find the right size crate that will be able to keep them secure. It is essential to have a crate that fits a German Shepherd comfortably, without giving too much space to encourage bad behaviors. You will need one between inches, depending on the size of your pup. The answer depends on their individual size. German Shepherds typically range in size from 50 to 90 pounds. Some large males have even reached up to pounds. Because of this, there is no one-size-fits-all crate recommendation. A small- to medium-sized German Shepherd may do well in a inch crate, but this is the smallest size a full-grown shepherd would need. This can give you a rough estimate of how large they will be fully grown. Males also grow to be larger than females. You will want to ensure the crate size is big enough for your dog to stand up, turn completely around, and stretch out and sleep comfortably. Some crate brands will come with a divider that will allow you to adjust the size as needed. Your goal is to make this a safe haven and a place your dog enjoys being. This breed has high energy and will require stimulation. You run the risk of them trying to escape the cage before crate training is complete. Dog Crate Door Number Another convenience is that some brands of crates will come with two doors — one in the front and one on the side. This will allow you some versatility when finding a place in your home to put the crate. This size crate is recommended for dogs weighing 40 to 70 pounds. This size crate is ideal for dogs weighing anywhere between 70 to 90 pounds. This dog crate size is ideal for dogs that weigh more than 90 pounds. How to Choose the Right Crate Size for a Puppy Your German Shepherd puppy needs a crate that is large enough for them to comfortably turn around in but not much else. A crate any bigger will leave room for accidents when potty training. When your German Shepherd puppy reaches adult size, they will need to be able to comfortably stand and turn around inside the crate. For sizing, it is recommended to measure the length from their nose to the base of their tail, then add approximately 2 to 4 inches of extra room. The good news is, a lot of large crates on the market come with dividers. These dividers can be used for puppies and can be moved as they grow and need to accommodate more space. Purchase a crate that fits their estimated adult size and use a divider to adjust the inside space as they grow. Some dog owners prefer to buy cage sizes as they grow, but this is a great option that will save you money in the long run. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are big dogs that will require a sturdy, comfortably-sized crate. When purchasing a puppy, you can get a pretty good estimate of their adult size by looking at the parents. Smaller German Shepherds could require no more than a inch crate, while some of the larger German Shepherds will need a inch crate. Once you find a puppy, you can purchase a crate that fits their estimated adult size and use a divider as they grow. Related Reads:. The Best Dog Crate for Shepherds The Overview: keep scrolling to read reviews The German Shepherd working dog breed is agile, high-energy, intelligent and excels at almost anything they're trained to do. Their devotion, loyalty and intelligence often contributes to their impressive escape artists skills. If you have a German Shepherd, German Shepherd mix or a dog who suffers from separation anxiety, we highly recommend you continue reading this article. Rather than us explaining why this escape proof High Anxiety dog crate is ideal for GSDs, we've decided to share thorough testimonials written by our customers! All of these reviews have been submitted by verified customers and the only modifications to this content are the updated crate sizes in parenthesis when a size has been mentioned. What is the best dog crate for anxious German Shepherd Dogs and other escape artist pups? Well, there is no right or wrong answer to this question because as you may know, every dog is different. Fortunately, our team has the opportunity to converse with dog owners every single day and some of these customers are trainers, owners and handlers of German Shepherds. The most common Impact Dog Crate for German Shepherds is the High Anxiety crate because of its durable, welded structure and its escape-proof design. Feel free to read all of these reviews and other product reviews here! Her high anxiety Impact crate was the solution to her anxiety. Not only can she not break out, but she is calmer in her crate and loves it! If you have a pup working their way through all the crates at the pet store, stop wasting your money and buy one of these bad boys! I ordered the size inch high anxiety crate for my German Shepherd mix, Rookie. She has really bad separation anxiety. Her last crate a black wire crate from Petco was a mess. She has broke the door off was held on by carabiners after that and broke the black plastic underneath. When she would escape she would cause damage to the house that cost me thousands. So I had to miss sleep to retrieve the delivery and was unable to fall back asleep after the call. I do not have a picture in her new crate but I do have pictures of her for any size references for others, the damage she did to my boyfriends man cave when she escaped her old crate and a picture of her poor nose when she would attempt escapes out of her old crate and under her butt you can see where she destroyed that carpet as well. Crate was expensive, but it solved a problem that I had been unable to solve otherwise. My 95 lb. German shepherd puppy escaped from his conventional folding wire crate multiple times, sometimes from bending the wire structure and other times from opening the latches. Besides his being loose in the house we feared that he would injure himself during his escape as he did once when we came home to find blood on the floor and wall near his wire crate. The first Impact crate arrived with shipping damage. Impact shipped a replacement crate the same day that we called about the damage to the first crate. The second arrived in perfect condition. So far, no escape from the Impact crate. We bought the accessory covers for the door bars but have not seen reason to install it. We want to leave as much visibility for him through the door as possible. It protects our home and our dog. Excellent customer service helped added to experience. Size 42 inch crate shown. Our dog Toby is a German Shepherd that has separation anxiety and doesn't like being in a crate when no one is home for more that a couple hours. He would break out of wire crates until I would reinforce it to make it more difficult for him. Since we purchased the size inch high anxiety crate, he has met his match! The only thing he as done so far is some scratching on the inside to be expected , and tearing at a dog bed we placed inside the crate. When we are home he will go inside the crate and lay down. At least now when we leave the house with him inside his new crate, we know he will never scratch or dig his way out or it. And will not hurt himself either. I did purchase the door guards for his high anxiety crate shortly after ordering the crate but have not had to install them yet. I really like the solid construction of this crate. Once you buy this crate, you will never have to buy a cheap wire crate anymore. Like others have mentioned, I highly recommend impact crates! Size inch crate shown. This crate though expensive is worth every cent I paid for it. Apparently this sweet baby was abused with a crate or left in one for extremely long times. We had gone through 3 crates, 2 wire ones and 1HUGE hard plastic one. She managed to break out of all three. I had basically become a prisoner in my own home. I love her so much and am giving her the best life I possibly can. Size 40 inch crate shown. Mans Best Friend - Phillip S. However, she had become an escape artist. Two wire kennels and three travel crates later my family decided it was time to invest in a quality crafted kennel. After doing extensive research and talking with several trainers and K9 officers we are friends with, we chose Impact. If you want to stop worrying about your dog breaking free when you leave the house then it is well worth the investment. I would recommend an impact dog kennel to anyone. Not just because of the quality by which it is made but because the staff took the time to answer all of our questions and made sure we were getting exactly the right kennel. Uses size 42 inch crate. It exceeds expectations. My German Shepherd could break out of the front of every other crate we have had. She now only will do turns in the crate, and will not even try to escape. She is very large at lbs. Service was also great. Thank you so much. Worth the money - Elaine F. I have a German Shepherd who any time we left the house would freak and destroy crate after crate that we'd get her from Petco or Persmart. Finally I did my research, after already spending so much on wire crates I went with the high anxiety crate. I was nervous about it at first because it is a lot of money but in the end it's worth it. My pup has not escaped from the crate and she is also comfortable in there. I make sure she has treats and a nice bed to lay on while we're gone and she adapted quickly. Believe me, it's worth it if you want to stop spending money of crates in the end. This is the second Impact Dog Crate I have purchased. I have a highly anxious German Shepherd Rescue that has broken out of nearly every crate we have bought for years, sometimes hurting herself and leaving her parents worried. Being airline compliant is a much needed bonus as well. I cannot recommend this crate enough! Best on the market!!! Miracle Kennel! Worth every penny!! I have a 60lb female Anatolian Shepherd Mountain Cur mix with the most severe case of separation anxiety I have ever heard of. I have owned her for close to a year, and there have been a LOT of ups and downs in her separation anxiety training. Through her desperate attempts to escape, she has hurt herself pretty badly with strained muscles, worn down teeth, and bloody cuts. I decided to invest in this kennel because of the reviews of owners with similar dogs. And although the cost required me to be on a payment plan, every single cent of the payment is worth it. My dog cannot escape this kennel and she knows it! With her exercise and socialization routine, and some positive reinforcement training of this kennel, her anxiety has so drastically reduced that I believe she actually enjoys her kennel. Separation Anxiety - Christa So we got this crate about a month ago now. She has gone through two cages 1 was even 22 gauge steel and she ripped 2 of the bars off so we had to find something else to do. We got the size inch crate for her she is an 83 pound, female and she has plenty of room. I even sat in there with her and we both fit fine. This crate is incredibly heavy duty but surprisingly very light and easy to move with the help of another person. And the airplane rails on the sides did not come assembled, but in the box with assembly directions. The inside paint is scratched off, as expected, but the bars are not bent or disfigured in the slightest. We are exploring other options to attempt to aid her separation anxiety but the crate has done what we wanted: keep her contained and out of trouble. Yes they are very pricy crates, but they are built incredibly well and I would really recommend it! Anxious dog makes an anxious owner - Rhonda M. Impact Dog Crates is a life changer for me. My German shepherd was ruining her teeth pulling on her old wire kennel and I was so anxious knowing that as I left my house and the door bell rang, she would try like crazy to get out of the kennel. There is nothing inside the Impact Dog Crate that she can grab on with her teeth or pull on with her paws. It's awesome! I wish I had found this 2 years ago. We had been crating her in your average dog crate, until one day when we got home from work she had ripped her tooth completely out, root and all. We took her to the vet and she advised us to not use the crate for the fear of her ripping out more teeth. So we were letting her roam free in our living room and kitchen area during the day while we were at work. She destroyed our sectional couch, remote controllers, books etc. Then she started pulling trim off the walls, and eating holes through the drywall. So then we heard about these High-Anxiety crates and I will admit we were a little scared by the price at first, but I will tell you knowing that our dog is safe and not destroying our home makes it worth every penny. The crate is heavy duty, and relatively easy to move. We used to worry every second of every day when we were at work, but now our girl is safe and sound in an Impact dog crate. The customer see that was provided to me was 5 star as well. I have zero complaints with my crate or the customer service I received. Other companies should take lessons from Impact dog crates. Absolutely amazing! I have a German Shepherd who has broken out of every single cage I have bought him. The cost is very expensive and definitely made me second guess purchasing it in the first place for over a year. Delivery excellent. Very pleased WOW. .Finally a crate that works! New Years, 4th of July, storms. .We tried everything, thunder jacket, anxiety meds, you name it we tried it. No matter what we did or how many crates we bought, Albus would find a way to break out of them. He ate the garage door handle and the trim around it. We knew we had to do something bc we were afraid to leave the house for fear that he would cause serious harm to himself. I think he likes the closed in space. He would always try to squeeze into tight spaces, knocking things over. Coming from someone who was at a complete loss for what to do, this is the answer. Thank you Impact Dog Crates for helping us regain our sanity and for making a product that we can stand behind without hesitation. Saved my dog - Whitney C. I have a high anxiety German Shepherd who has noise phobia and does not do well during storms. He has jumped out of window's 5 feet off the ground and hurt himself in standard crates. I needed a way to keep him safe while I was at work. I tried a regular aluminum kennel and he ended up ripping some teeth out. Meds did not work, his anxiety overcame any effect they might have had on him. I didn't want to worry about him while I was away during the day so I purchased the high anxiety crate and it was a game changer. He is unable to get his teeth around the bars and can't tear the inside walls. I don't have to worry about his safety when I am gone anymore. He is also doing much better with his anxiety and I can leave him out of his crate during the day when storm season is over. It is totally worth the price to have a safe and happy dog! Great Product - Joyce G. We adopted the most expensive free dog that should have been named Houdini. Not only could she open sliding glass doors and climb fences but she totally destroyed the standard plastic crates. Other than the severe separation anxiety she suffers from she is the perfect dog. This was our last option to be able to keep her. I wish we would have made the purchase in the beginning. This crate is perfect. She is a 2 year old German Shepherd and the size inch has plenty of room. We leave the door open when we are home and she goes in on her own. Excellent product. I never thought we would spend this much money on a crate but it has made our lives so much easier because we do not have to worry about what we will find when we get home. He is one strong pup and has gotten out of a standard crate and then the next step up crate. He will watch you close it and figure out how to open it or just bend the bars. He has been through several training courses but does not like to be alone and it one smart dog. I bought this crate a few months ago and he has not gotten out. There are a few teeth marks on the inside so I know he has tried. It took only 2 days to get him used to it as it is a little more closed up than a regular crate but after the 2 days he went right into like he did the other ones. When I read reviews when I was looking at these I thought there was a place to upload pictures but I am not seeing that now or I would upload one. Perfect - Kathleen C. I bought the High-Anxiety size inch crate for my German-Australian shepherd mix. He tore apart every other crate, and a bathroom - door and floor - before we had this crate. He took to this new crate immediately and is very content when inside. We also have a tough bed that he can't destroy and it fits well inside the crate with room for water and food dishes if needed. The only 'con' - and it is an obvious one - is that the crate is HUGE! There are two handles on top but unless you are very strong and near six feet in height it will take at least two people to pick it up. Also the measurements for the shipping crate are a bit off and we ended up taking our front door off to get the unboxed crate inside. However I am very happy, and so is our dog, that we have this crate and it gives us all great peace of mind when leaving him home alone or when maintenance is being done on our home. Durable and inescapable - Clay V. We purchased a size size inch crate for our new 30 pound lab-shepherd mix. It didn't take her long to chew through a metal wire crate and escape, so we knew we needed the strongest crate possible. She has horrible separation anxiety and she definitely can't be left alone in the house she escaped and tore up the carpet, trim, and door of my room. We researched for a week or two before finally deciding on an Impact crate. She had to be boarded daily for almost a month while we went to work. Every other crate had reviews that I just couldn't look past. Everything from "my dog escaped" to "my dog is severely injured. If you're thinking that it's a lot of money for a crate, well you're right. But you get what you pay for, and this crate is top notch. She has scratched up the door and bars with her claws and teeth, but the structural integrity of the door is unaffected. Also nothing has chipped or broken off aside from the paint so she can't injure herself. Honestly I understand why they offer their replacement plan, because l highly doubt they have ever had to replace one. If you have a high anxiety dog, please take it from me and buy this crate. People literally don't believe that she needed it but then we show them the crazy scratch marks on the door and they understand. You won't be sorry with your purchase. If these escape artist dogs remind you of your own pup, we highly recommend chatting with our team to learn more about this High Anxiety crate and which size would best fit your dog. If you would like to read more Reviews of all of our crate models and accessories, click here! They can grow from 22 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh anywhere from 50 to 90 pounds. Male German Shepherds are usually heavier than females, and some individuals could fall slightly outside of this size range. The best way to estimate how big your puppy will be when fully grown is to take a look at his parents. The size of your dog crate should be big enough for your dog to: Turn around completely. Sit up without crouching his head. Lie on his side with paws stretched out. Especially if they have a larger, or male German Shepherd. Is Big Always Best? You might even need to go for a slightly larger option. For some people, it is a matter of space. The bigger the dog crate, the harder it can be to find space for it in your home. However, a crate that is too big for your dog can be problematic for other reasons. If you are housetraining your dog, he may use half of a big crate as a toilet, rather than using it just for sleeping. Crate training your dog will be much easier if you choose one that fits him properly. Too small and they will be uncomfortable and unhappy. Too big and they will soil their space. Puppies grow quickly. The best solution is to start with the size you think you will eventually need when your GSD is fully grown. Many crates come with a crate divider that you can use until they are an adult. Why Use a Divider? Which means I get a lot of use out of dividers for the first few months. Using one will allow you to tailor your crate to the exact size you need. And to change it accordingly as your dog grows! They do this crate 48 inch version, which I have been really happy with and ours has lasted for years. They do dividers to fit for when your pup is young, and they stand up to scratching and wipe down easily if accidents happen. We line ours with vet bedding, but you can also find more traditional dog beds to fit. It comes in 42, 46, or 48 inch sizes. This option is built on top of locking wheels. So, it is easy to move around your home, especially if you will struggle to lift a heavy crate! It has a slide out plastic tray for easy cleaning. It is easy to fold down and store, so would make a great travel crate. It has three doors, so you can put it pretty much anywhere and your dog can still use it. However, this is one we would recommend as a travel option only, especially if your GSD is prone to chewing or digging. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.

Lifespan Sociability If you get a Sheptese, get ready for the questions. People are going to ask you all the time, what is it? The parent breeds are similar in some personality aspects. They are both affectionate with their families. Remember that the Maltese was—and still is—a pampered pooch. He knows it, too. This pup has the sassiness and bravado of many toy breeds. Few realize that they are small dogs. The German Shepherd probably fuels this attitude. He is confident because he has the stuff to back up his aplomb. This pup has earned his stripes and then some! Every day will be a new adventure with this pooch. Selective breeding refined the German Shepherd to the stately dog we see today. The AKC appreciated the efforts and recognized him in .The first pup on the books was named Queen of Switzerland and worthy of the title. The German Shepherd took on the wrath after the world wars. It was also replaced at one time with Alstaian. The Maltese has retained his place with the rich and famous. While the Maltese got his start with Roman royalty, he has retained this status with his fans today. Many things go into the mix, including breed dominance, history, and size. That makes it hard to generalize about the Sheptese. The German Shepherd brings keen intelligence to the mix. He is easy to train and can learn a variety of tasks and commands. The Maltese is equally as smart. That means that you need to challenge your pet mentally. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He wants all the attention. Separation anxiety is a concern with the Sheptese. This pup is relatively friendly with strangers, but early socialization is imperative to seal the deal. It comes from his history as a herding dog. It also means trouble for your cat or other small animals. This pup is moderately tolerant of other canines. Many of the caveats depend on the dominant breed. If not, rely on the advice of your veterinarian for the particular care that your pet will need. The size of your pup is a vital consideration. Use those observations as your guide because foods for small and large breeds vary. If your pup is more like a Maltese, you must make sure he eats at every meal. Dogs of this size are more inclined toward drops in blood sugar levels. Begin with three or four meals a day for a puppy with two times for an adult. Walks and trips to the doggie park will seal the deal. This pup has a moderate tendency toward weight gain, so regular activity is imperative to keep him healthy. Think of your time together as opportunities to bond with your pet. He can also handle more challenging tasks, which is why he performs on the agility circuit in dog shows. The key to success is consistent training. Let your pet know what you want him to do. The Maltese is easy-peasy with his silky hair and regular combing to prevent mats. The Shepherd needs regular brushing to keep the hair in check. The key is to remain consistent. You teach your pup what he needs to do, and you make it easier for you. Handle his paws often to make trimming his nails easier. A post shared by Aaki aaki. Minor Conditions. While they may be larger than a Maltese, they rarely grow to be the size of a German Shepherd. Very likely, they will be around 10 to 18 inches tall and weigh between 20 and 25 pounds. Even when the GSD parent dons another color, its mutt is likely to inherit the same color and the same medium-to-long double coat. However, the German Shepherd coat it might inherit means a double coat that sheds year-round and blows off twice a year. This means having to brush at least once a week to control the shedding and then as frequently as once daily during the shedding seasons. As for the ears, maintenance will depend on which set the pup inherits. All dogs benefit from regular nail trimming, and the Maltese-German Shepherd mix is no different. It will also require frequent toothbrushing to ensure good oral health. Strength The strength of the German Shepherd — Maltese cross will mainly depend on its size. They may, however, still have considerable bite strength relative to the size of their muzzle. The build and size of the German Shepherd unsurprisingly make it a faster runner at approximately 30 miles per hour. Given the running speeds of its two parents, the Maltese — GSD mix is expected to run quite fast. Of course, its speed will be proportional to its size as longer legs mean larger strides. Nevertheless, you can expect these dogs to be quick on their feet, agile, and energetic. Exercise Requirement The Maltese — German Shepherd mix may be more laid back thanks to the lower energy levels it inherits from the Maltese parent. However, having a GSD parent means they are likely to still be quite energetic. They will thrive on physical exercise of at least 30 minutes per day in order to avoid the development of bad behaviors. The intelligence and work drive they are likely to inherit from the German Shepherd parent also means they will require plenty of mental stimulation. These may be in the form of puzzle toys , enrichment games, and training. They may also excel in canine sports, which would ensure both physical and mental wellbeing. It belongs to the highest tier of dog intelligence, which means it only takes up to 5 repetitions for them to learn a command. The Maltese, however, is not quite as trainable. These dogs belong to the fifth tier of dog intelligence and may need up to 80 repetitions to master a new command. Nevertheless, what it lacks in natural intelligence, it makes up for in its eagerness to please. With early exposure and socialization, these crosses can be well-behaved and delightful companions. They relate better with other dogs and are much more likely to relax and switch off at home. Compared to the Maltese, however, they have much more energy and a stronger drive to work. Although these dogs are highly adaptable, they will benefit from plenty of training and even a job to do at home. But no matter which parent it takes its personality from, the Maltese — German Shepherd mix is sure to be affectionate with family and playful yet gentle with young children. You can also expect them to be slightly wary of strangers because of their protective nature. Health Any Maltese GSD cross will require regular vet checkups from puppyhood because the difference in size between the two parents can lead to several complications. Conversely, its heart might be too small to support a larger body. Additionally, the genetic conditions of both parents will play a huge role in the health of their offspring. The GSD parent brings up concerns of hip and elbow dysplasia while the Maltese parent makes it more likely to suffer from patellar issues. But if both breeding stocks are screened and healthy, the resulting offspring are likely to be healthy as well. Lifespan Barring any complications from mismatched sizing, a Maltese — German Shepherd cross is generally expected to live between 10 and 12 years. To ensure longevity, take your pup to regular vet check-ups and feed them a high-quality diet throughout its life. Additionally, keep your dog from becoming overweight as this will lead not only to cardiovascular issues but will also cause unnecessary wear on their joints and give them a much harder time in their senior years. Nevertheless, it can participate in the AKC Canine Partners program, which accommodates the registration of mutts and allows them to participate in a number of club-hosted events. Among the events that the German Shepherd-Maltese cross is expected to excel in include Flyball and Rally. It would be difficult for you to find a German Shepherd — Maltese mix because responsible breeders would not produce them on purpose. The difference in size between the two breeds puts the resulting puppies at great risk. If the Maltese is the female that will carry the litter, its life will also be at risk because the puppies might be too large for its body to handle. Nevertheless, you may still encounter the occasional GSD-Maltese cross as a result of an accidental mating. When you do, it will surely be an interesting dog with plenty of unique characteristics. Even more so because of its incredibly unique appearance and combination of personality traits from the two parents. However, these dogs may need careful and regular vet examinations throughout their life since the difference in size between the two parents can bring life-threatening health conditions. It grows up to 10 inches for a male and 9 inches for a female. An adult Maltese regardless of gender can weight up to 4 pounds. A Maltese fall under the toy group classification. Its color is white, and it comes with a long coat. It requires regular grooming. The Maltese are one of the few dog breeds that need a regular bath. If you are looking for a cute family dog that your kids can play with, this sweet and affectionate breed is highly recommended. In his YouTube video , AnimalWised showed reasons why Maltese is one of the most loved family dogs in the world. Getting to Know Your German Shepherd Breed GSDs or German Shepherd dogs are known for many things according to AKC — loyalty to its owner, courage, ability to learn and understand commands, confidence, and willingness to save the ones they loved. It is not just a pet and a friend, it is also a guardian. An adult GSD can weigh up to 95 pounds. It grows up to 26 inches in height. It has the size of a Maltese and the physical looks of a German Shepherd. You can find a cute image of a Sheptese from Dog Breed Info. This is the only information available about a Sheptese online. It is probably because it is not easy to breed a small Maltese with a large German Shepherd. In a forum posted in Quora , members expressed fear from a possible Maltese German Shepherd mix. And if it worked and the female Maltese carries a large GSD pup, would she survive the birthing process? Perhaps these questions hindered most breeders of today from crossing these two breeds. A GSD has a lot of great characteristics that pet parents would love. When it comes to popular GSD mixed breeds, the following are the most popular ones. Mix them and you get the top two best guard dogs out there. These breeds are energetic, obedient, loyal, and brave. Collies and GSDs are known as herding dogs in the early s so you can expect this cross-breed to be very active especially outdoors. Despite being a large dog, your kids can safely play around Shollies especially those trained ones. This breed is often seen cuddled by Hollywood stars. Combine it with another breed and you can get an equally cute and cuddly pet baby. When it comes to popular Maltese mixed breeds, the following are the most popular ones. Maltese and Poodle Mix Maltipoo Charming, affectionate, and loving — this is how little Maltipoos are often described. Because of its poodle genes, it often comes in brown color and not white. The cute face is the same though and it remains to be a great family pet. Maltese and Shihtzu Malshi Do you want a furball that you can bring anywhere you go? The Malshi would be a great cross-breed to have. It is very small that you can even place it in your bag while doing your window shopping. An active dog, the Malshi is a good company even if you just want to binge-watch over the weekend. Maltese and Yorkshire Terrier Morkie Are you a fan of small and cute dogs? The Morkie is an example of a family dog that you can leave with your child with a peace of mind. This is a friendly, loving, and very active breed too. Final Thoughts on the Maltese German Shepherd Mix Finding information on the Maltese German Shepherd mix is challenging because very few breeders had probably tried it. According to Breeding Business , it is difficult and worrisome to breed dogs of different sizes. There are health concerns involved and increased risk. The strain on the smaller female can be stressful and can even lead to death. If you are into German Shepherds or Maltese, it is best to choose from their popular mixes as these are proven to be healthier and more reliable breeds.

Are male and female German shepherds different? The Neonatal Period. Birth-2 Weeks. In the first two weeks of their life your puppy is mostly helpless and fully dependant on their mother. Their mother will be responsible for feeding, eliminating waste and keeping them warm. The puppies will be able to taste, touch and feel warmth but their eyes and ears are sealed shut. You should see the following milestones hit in the first two weeks. What you should expect to see: Puppies Starting to Crawl Eyes and ears starting to open Teeth starting to appear By the end of the first two weeks your puppies should be able to stand up, albeit a little shakily and have their eyes and ears fully open. The Transitional Period. They will start to be able to control their body and temperature much better. They will start to interact with their litter mates but will still be largely dependent on their mother. What you should expect to see: Puppies Walking Well Puppies Interacting with you and their littermates Puppy teeth almost complete. The Socialisation Period 4weeks — 3 months The puppies will now have complete control of their body and will start exploring the world around them. The latter half of this period is the ideal time to rehome the puppies as this is when they are most susceptible to learning new things and they can start to be taught basic commands. Between weeks your puppy may start to display signs of some fearfulness. This is perfectly normal and will need to be nurtured Not encouraged by you. What you should expect to see: Start showing adult behaviours Wagging tails, sniffing bums Start to be able to be taught basic commands Ears begin to sit upright. The Juvenile Period 3months-6months Your German Shepherd puppy will become much more independent during this period. They will start to understand dominance and will explore their home to understand where their position is in the household. What you should expect to see: Female puppies begin heat cycles Ears now fully upright Males reach sexual maturity The Adolescence Period 6monthsmonths Most of your puppies social understanding and behaviours will have developed by this point but a reinforcement of these is still important. Your puppy will be at their most energetic and will require a structured training routine to help them to continue to develop. Males are considered fully grown at 36months whereas females reach this mark around 24months. You will know have an excellent, loyal family pet and companion to spend many years together with. German Shepherds are a medium-large breed. Females will grow to around inches and weigh lbs whereas the males will grow to around inches and weigh lbs. How many puppies is there in the average German Shepherd litter? German Shepherd litters Usually consist of between 5 and 10 puppies. How long do German shepherds live? The average life span for a German Shepherd is somewhere between 9 and 14 years. Other than the size difference already discussed females tend to be more affectionate than males where is male dogs are usually more protective of their surroundings and their families. Related Posts. Height: 26 inches Ratio: .This should give you their height. For example, 26 inches times 0. Using the other example, .Since each dog is going to be different, you need to look at their overall body condition rather than a weight range. Fortunately, there are body conditioning charts that you can use to figure out if your German Shepherd is at their ideal weight. Just look at them from the side and from above, feeling for ribs and pelvic bones when necessary. Younger dogs will also typically be on the thin side before they fully fill out as adults. Years of line breeding has produced several distinct types of Shepherds. Show dogs are known for a sloped back in which the back legs are shorter than the front. This unnatural formation can cause back and hip problems along with an abnormal gait. German Shepherds bred for show will also be thinner than their hardworking cousins. As you can see in this picture, this is a show-bred German Shepherd with an obvious curved back and short back legs. Working dogs, on the other hand, are bred for a sturdy, straight back so they can work long hours without getting sore. They tend to be thicker than show dogs and will, therefore, weigh more, even at the same height. As you can see in this picture, this dog has a straighter back and longer back legs, so it has been bred for working. Something else I wanted to mention here is that, according to some sources, Black German Shepherds are larger than their bi-colored cousins, despite being otherwise the same. So, if you have one of these rare and beautiful creatures, you can follow the same charts that were listed above. If your German Shepherd is diagnosed by a veterinarian as underweight or overweight for their age, then the first thing you should do is ask him or her to help you figure out the underlying cause of the problem. This will determine what should be done next. Do you have a giant German Shepherd? What about a tiny one? Comment below to tell us more about it! About Alexandra Animalso I was raised to be a dog person. My first Shepherd grew up as I did and wanted to be where I was at all times. I got my second dog as a 16th birthday present, and her loyalty for me was just as strong as my first. I hope that my contribution to Animalso will help others find dogs who give them that same unconditional love. American German shepherds have straighter backs then German shepherds. If you have a german shepherd and their lineages are close to their German roots they will have that arch in their back. Puppyhood The first growth phase — puppyhood — has six development stages. During each of these stages, a puppy learns a lot of things. Neonatal Stage This period lasts from birth to 13 days. The puppy needs a lot of nursing from its mom because it is rather helpless. Its ears and eyes are closed, so it does not have any senses. The little pups should completely rely on their mothers for nourishment and care. By 2 weeks, they double their birth weight. They start crawling, and then their eyes and ears begin to open. The first milk teeth appear. The puppy can even stand up, but too unstably and shakily. This makes it possible for little ones to hear, smell, and taste. They even try to walk. Their baby teeth continue growing. The period between weeks is also called a transitional one. At the end of the third week, the motor skills start developing fast. The puppy can already control its temperature and body, namely, bowel movements. It begins to interact with its littermates. Nevertheless, the pup is still largely dependent on its mother. Though, you can interact with it. At the end of this period, the little cub is ready to explore the world. Its baby teeth are almost complete, and it can stand up more stably. It starts barking and growling a bit. The puppy grows quickly now. It actively interacts with its littermates. The baby dog can walk, and its baby teeth are complete. You can also consider the German Shepherd behavior stages from now. Its mental development starts because it discovers the world actively with its senses. Its walking improves, and it can make attempts to run, so it can even sometimes get in trouble. The puppy can start eating dog food. That is why it is important to begin weaning. The little one can recognize and greet its littermates and people, get interested in new things, and continue to explore the world. However, at this age, the first fear period can be experienced. Read our detailed guide about 6 week old German Shepherd puppy. It is the best period for taking your pet home. This period can be psychologically traumatic, so be careful not to expose the pet to direct sunlight because it may be afraid of it for its entire life. All the fears need your special attention. You need to nurture, but not encourage them. Read our detailed guide about 2 month old German Shepherd puppy. So, your puppy is three months old now. It is playful and active. Its teeth are complete. It is weaned and eats dog food. The feeding recommendation here is the overall one and a half cups, three times a day. It is also time to get your pet vaccinated against distemper and parvovirus. At the end of the third month, your little GSD can simulate its behavior after other dogs and humans. Training can start. Read our detailed guide about 3 month old German Shepherd puppy. Your puppy already has all its baby teeth, and adult canines and incisors begin to push through. It can even try to bite or nip you. The puppy coat begins to disappear and gets ready for replacement by the adult double-layer coat. You can see a racing stripe on its spine where the adult hair will grow. The puppy displays quick growth at this time, and it becomes stronger to withstand the possible fierce competition with its siblings if it is still staying with its family. It needs a lot of biting and chewing now for the correct growth of its adult teeth. Your pet needs consistent socialization and potty training now. After three months old, you should think about such vaccination as DHPP — distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus. The juvenile phase lasts from 3 to 6 months, and it can be divided into three stages by month. Continue socializing and start more substantial training. You can consult the German Shepherd weight chart here to see whether your pup develops properly. So, be attentive to the games you play with your pet. Some of them can be dangerous and traumatic because your puppy may not know how to manage its body during them. You can give it two cups of kibble totally three times per day because it needs a lot of nutrition to grow. DHPP and rabies vaccines are recommended at this age. Your little pup is ready to explore the world. However, as a true teenager, it can become more stubborn and try not to listen to your commands. It starts to understand dominance and tries to persuade you in its leadership. Read our detailed guide about 4 month old German Shepherd puppy. During this month, it can gain about 10 pounds 4. Its ears have stably perked up by this time. It looks more like an adult dog but, as a true teenager, it is very playful and is always ready to go around. The adult teeth continue to appear. Sexual maturity starts emerging. You should feed your pet around two cups three times per day. A lot of training is also needed. Read our detailed guide about 5 month old German Shepherd puppy. It needs a lot of training and positive reinforcement. Now, your pet is fully house-trained, and it needs a lot of new experiences. The sixth month is a transition period to the Adolescent Phase. The ears are completely upright. Males achieve sexual maturity, while female puppies can experience heat cycles. Hormones start working, and male puppies can start marking the territory and looking for females to mate. The adult coat grows longer and gets its normal double layers. Adult teething is about to finish, and all 42 teeth appear. You should feed your dog with the overall two or three cups two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 6 month old German Shepherd puppy. Adolescence Phase Months German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years 36 months old. Females become adults when they are 2 years 24 months old. However, these criteria differ for every puppy. That is why the adolescence phase lasts from the end of the 6th month to the end of the second year of age 24 months on average. By the end of this phase, the puppy reaches its full size though it will continue slightly growing. Your dog can display testing boundaries, so disobedience is widely encountered if the dog is not properly trained. German Shepherds do not look like puppies anymore. Within this period, some dogs can display their second fear period at approximately months old , though to avoid long-lasting psychological trauma, you should ignore the fears. Some dogs may occasionally forget their skills that they have already acquired, so you may need to repeat training again. Here, the reinforced training is useful because some puppies can become entirely rambunctious. Your pet will also need more socialization since it reaches its sexual maturity, and some of its reactions can be pretty unexpected. Its sexual maturity continues, which may cause some aggression because of increases and decreases in hormones. The puppy does not gain weight so fast. Teething is finished. The German Shepherd starts looking more similar to an adult dog, with its standing up ears and well-developed muscles. The food your dog needs involves two or three cups total, given two times per day. Read our detailed guide about 7 month old German Shepherd puppy. It displays a lot of aggression. It can bark or lunge at other animals, kids, and unfamiliar people. A lot of training and reinforcement is needed. You can teach the youngster new tricks to deal with their aggression. The dog has strong adult teeth, and its ears are well-formed and perky. The transition to adulthood continues. As for food, your dog needs two-three cups in total two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 8 month old German Shepherd puppy. It does not grow fast, gaining about a couple of pounds per month. The dog needs two-three cups of food two times a day. Read our detailed guide about 9 month old German Shepherd puppy. They are very active and need a lot of attention and training. Sometimes, they can be really goofy or clumsy because they are still learning and do not know how to behave in many events. Your pup is very smart and clever but tends to display a lot of aggression if not supported and reinforced properly. The dogs should eat two-three cups in total per day. Read our detailed guide about 10 month old German Shepherd pupp y. It starts to challenge you as an owner and likes to demonstrate its leadership. You should teach it to be responsible and obey your commands. A lot of training and reinforcement is crucial. Still, give it two or three cups in total per day. It becomes a bit destructive, but be sure not to get angry or upset with it. It needs your patience and positive attitude. Such vaccines as DHPP and rabies are recommended at this age. It should also transit to adult food. Give it three or three and a half cups total twice a day. Read our detailed guide about 1 year old German Shepherd puppy. Years 1. This time is considered a transition period. The dog may have problems with fears and memory breakdowns. It may even forget how to do familiar things and should be trained again. However, its attention span is longer at this age, so it can have a more thorough obedience training. The dog should eat three or three and a half cups two times a day. Year 2 months — The Second Transition Phase This is one more transition period known as young adulthood. Your dog still displays some aggression. That is why they continue to need reinforcement, training, and socialization. It has already gained its athletic frame and strong muscle, and only several pounds are lacking for reaching its adult weight. In fact, you get a German Shepherd full-grown pet now. The DHPP vaccination is recommended at this age. Continue to feed your dog with three to three and a half cups in total twice per day. It has become a loyal and protective family pet or an obedient and enduring working dog. The young adulthood stage lasts from the second to the third year after the puppy was born. Its size is typical now for an adult dog. However, it may continue to grow slightly, but the changes are not noticeable at all. At this phase, you can also notice that your pet becomes more and more active. It needs a lot of exercise and training. A lot of physical activity is essential for the dog to stay in high spirits. The period between the second and third years of life is also called the adult growth stage. This is the time when your friend gets its excellent breed characteristics. It loves attention very much and continues to learn new things eagerly. The dog enjoys training sessions and strives for new experiences. It becomes calmer and more confident. Its hyperactivity slightly decreases. It displays a lot of self-control and discipline. Continue feeding your dog with three to three and a half cups twice per day. It will be its constant adult diet. Vaccination against rabies is recommended and required by authorities at this age. Seniority Phase This is the last phase of German Shepherd development. It may seem wonderful, but your dog can continue to slightly grow. The phase is divided into two periods — early senior years old and late senior years old. Unfortunately, you need to focus on its health rather than on training. Such health issues as hip dysplasia, joint pain, and decreased stamina can appear at this age. You need to have consultations with your vet more often. During this period, your dog does not change its weight and height considerably. Though, you can observe slight changes in weight. On average, these dogs live years. You need to attend to their health and comfort. The dog may remain energetic and playful, but it slightly slows down. It wants to rest more and gets much calmer. The animal may suffer from some pains, so it may need pain relievers for spine and joint problems and arthritis. It may also need nutritional supplements and changes to its diet. Special senior and sensitive stomach food may become the best choice. Avoid jumping and hard playing. Continuous veterinary monitoring is needed if some symptoms are worsening. The accepted proportion that is considered ideal is .The weight is usually not taken into consideration. If your pet does not correspond to this proportion, there may be a health issue you do not know about yet. That is why you need to monitor the parameters carefully. To be sure that everything is OK, multiply the length of your dog by 0. You will get the perfect height. However, there can be some divergences. If they are minor, you have nothing to worry about. The German Shepherd is rather thin, or even skinny. This results in bad proportions. The ideal weight of your German Shepherd is lbs kg for males and lbs kg for females. You can get either a heavy or obese dog, and it can be a result of overfeeding or certain health issues. How to Check the Weight of Your German Shepherd The simplest method to see whether your dog is underweight is to check whether the ribs are visible on the sides. If you can see that the shape of your dog reminds you of a barrel on the ribs, it means that it is overweight. If you cannot feel the ribs, but there is too much skin on the sides, your dog is overweight. However, if you feel the ribs and only a thin layer of skin, it is underweight. It does not matter whether your dog is underweight or overweight. In any case, it can cause health problems if you do not repair the situation. The best way to succeed is to make changes to the diet. If your German Shepherd is underweight, you should enrich the content of its food. However, do not make it eat if the dog does not want to. That can lead to more severe problems. Make a slow transition to food with higher fat content. Or you may even give your dog puppy food because it is rich in nutrients. If your pet is obviously overweight, the best thing is to cut off the food. However, you also need to do it step by step so that the dog finally can eat just half of the amount you have recently fed it. The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder and an average weight of pounds kg. Nevertheless, some German Shepherds can grow bigger and even reach pounds kg. You need to be sure about its proportions though to understand if your pet meets the standards. If you see some deficiencies, meet your vet for a more thorough evaluation. When does a German Shepherd stop growing? German Shepherd males are thought to be grown-up when they are 3 years old. Females become adults when they are 2 years old. How tall is a German Shepherd? The adult dog has a height of inches cm at the shoulder. An average male reaches inches cm in height, while an average female should be inches cm tall. The body of both males and females should be longer than their height. How big do German Shepherds get? How much does a German Shepherd weight? In general, an average male reaches pounds kg in weight, while an average female should be pounds kg heavy. This is a very strong and brave dog that can become a perfect guardian and protector. If you decide to take a GS puppy, you need to follow its growth stages accurately to be sure that it develops properly. You should follow a high-quality diet, provide your dog with a lot of exercise, and ensure its proper training and socialization. Your German Shepherd cannot stay healthy and active if it gets some health problems related to its weight or height. Sometimes, these issues are not obvious and understandable to the owner. That is why it is important to know the main development parameters of your German Shepherd growth stages to cope with possible challenges. We hope that this article, together with the weight and height chart, will become your effective and helpful guide. David W. I admire German Shepherds. They are magnificent dogs! I have been dealing with dogs, namely German Shepherds, throughout my life. I have been working part-time as a dog trainer and instructor for about 5 years, dealing mainly with German Shepherds. So I know a bit about these animals. Therefore, I decided to share my knowledge and experience about this fantastic breed. If you need help with advice and care tips or want to know more about German Shepherd dogs, welcome to this blog. The long adolescent period that ends the puppy years is highly individual, but most dogs mature somewhere before 3 years of age. The Neonatal Stage This is the very earliest stage your German shepherd will pass through. Simply put, this is the helpless baby stage when your puppy's eyes will still be closed and he is completely dependent upon his mother. She will feed him, wash him and clean up after his accidents for the first two or three weeks. His eyes will open at around 10 days. At this time, your puppy is little more than an eating machine -- filling his belly to help his tiny body grow and develop. The Transitional Stage Though it is short and indistinct, the transitional stage from the neonatal to the socialization stage is important to your pup's development nevertheless. This brief phase -- lasting only about a week after his eyes open -- marks the period when your German shepherd begins to notice his environment. He will start to look at things curiously and be aware of sounds around him. Prior to this he has been in his own little world with no sights or sounds beyond his own body and that of his mother. When his eyes open, the immediate environment -- with other living beings -- is suddenly a part of life that he must face. The Socialization Stage At around 3 weeks, your puppy begins to learn how to interact with others -- both animals and the humans around him. He has already had some practice with dogs through the daily contact with his mother and litter mates, but now he begins to expand his circle of acquaintance to other dogs or cats in the household and to the family of humans around him. This is the most critically important phase in your German shepherd's development and helps decide his later suitability for work in rescue, service or as a family dog. At this time, he should have opportunities to meet as many new animals and faces under differing circumstances as possible, so he becomes comfortable with meeting people and other animals in a variety of situations when he grows up. This stage lasts to about 3 months of age and is the period when puppies are at their most impressionable and playful. The Juvenile Stage From 3 to 6 months old, your puppy will begin to look beyond the biological world of dogs, cats and people to the larger world around him. He will want to explore new places more than new faces at this point -- which may often get him into trouble. This is an active and trying age for puppy parents. Your puppy looks like a mostly grown-up dog but behaves entirely like a pup. His attention span is about as long as that of the average teenager, so this is not a particularly easy time for obedience classes. Your shepherd will have other things on his mind, but pet parents should continue to persevere because this is the best stage to resolve any obvious aggression or anxiety issues your pup may display. If those issues are not addressed early, they could become larger problems later on. To make things a tad more difficult, at around 5 months of age, your German shepherd starts to mature sexually. The Adolescent Stage The teenage angst that human children go through is roughly equivalent to what pet parents can expect from their adolescent German shepherd. Beginning with the onset of sexual maturity and lasting through the first two years of his life, your puppy's hormones will rage uncontrollably unless he is neutered early. This stage is usually marked by mounting -- anything and everything -- marking his territory and even fighting with other male dogs. Females will enter their first estrus period at this time and may try to escape the yard or otherwise pose problems. The pup's body has become adult, and his brain is fully alert and capable, but his emotions are still in the turbulent transitional phase from teenager to full adult. If he were human, this would be the stage at which you would hide the car keys. As an adult, your German shepherd is finally the calm, dignified, courageous and respectful dog you always knew he would grow up to be. If you were patient and dedicated through those early, sometimes difficult, years, you now have a well-trained and disciplined companion for life. More Articles. Though they typically only average nine to thirteen years, those years can be very memorable and special to dog and owner. Along the way, there are several German Shepherd growth stages that they will encounter including several fun and exciting breakthroughs. They will go through many different levels of development stacking up in inches and packing on the pounds. German Shepherd Growth Stages: This article will cover in detail, all of the month-to-month growth stages including their size from 1 month old to 3-year-old. It will also include important milestones along the way. This is the puppy portion of the German Shepherd growth stages and these cute little fur balls are beginning their journey into the new world. They are independent, spry and ready to explore! They are starting to grow but stand no taller than half a foot. Cuteness Factor: Through the roof! Height: Male: 4 — 6 in 11 — 16 cm Female: 3 — 6 in 8 — 14 cm Weight: Male: 5. They stand up for the first time. They start exploring independently and playing. Bowel movements are partially controlled. Light barking and growling begin. Puppy teeth should be filling in. This is a good time to introduce them to some kibble. They may or may not be interested. Month 2: Socialization Growth Stage Once the fuzz balls reach month 2, they start socializing more with other animals and people. This is also the time that their little chompers should be complete. They have grown up a little but still remain under a foot tall. Cuteness Factor: Just look at my ears! Height: Male: 7 — 9 in 17 — 22 cm Female: 6 — 9 in 14 — 22 cm Weight: Male: 16 — 20 lbs 6 — 9 kg Female: 11 — 17 lbs 5 — 7. They start to bond with animals and people. Their mental development starts to speed up. Fear reaction begins. They are typically ready to find their forever home. Food: Weaning should be wrapping up at this age. They should transition to a diet of puppy kibble. One and a half cups total three times a day is recommended but stick to a solid schedule. Vaccines: Puppy should have distemper and parvovirus by this time. Teething will be in full force at month 3 and their adult canines and incisors will start to push through. Those cute little fluffy ears may start to go up and down. They will start to lose their puppy coat and you may notice a racing stripe on the spine where the adult hair is starting to grow in. At this point they have almost made it to the height of a standard ruler. Cuteness Factor: Equal to fluffy pillows! Height: Male: 9 — 11 in 23 — 27 cm Female: 8 — 10 in 20 — 25 cm Weight: Male: 22 — 30 lbs 10 — 14 kg Female: 17 — 26 lbs 8 — 12 kg Milestones: Ears begin to stand up. Teething stage begins and continues for several months. Lots of biting and chewing ensures. Potty training and socialization should be consistent. Puppy fuzz begins to be replaced with adult double coat of fur. Food: Two cups of puppy kibble total three times a day is recommended. Vaccines: DHPP which includes distemper, hepatitis, parainfluenza, and parvovirus are recommended. Month 4: At this point GSDs will be very playful and getting into some trouble. They have left puppy hood and become adolescents. Multiple skills will be developing as they learn, socialize and train. Height: Male: 11 — 14 in 29 — 35 cm Female: 10 — 12 in 26 — 31 cm Weight: Male: 35 — 40 lbs 16 — 18 kg Female: 31 — 35 lbs 14 — 16 kg Milestones: Ears continue to perk up. Teething continues as adult teeth come in. They continue to play and explore everything around them. Training continues as they constantly learn. Food: Puppy should continue to eat two cups of kibble total three times per day. Vaccines: DHPP and rabies are recommended. Month 5: At 5 months of age, they are still growing fast and should have gained close to 10 pounds. They are still in the juvenile stage and have plenty of energy to go around. They are looking much more like an adult but still have that puppy spirit. Ears may have perked up at this point. Cuteness Factor: Cute as pumpkin pie! Height: Male: 14 — 16 in 35 — 40 cm Female: 12 — 14 in 31 — 36 cm Weight: Male: 40 — 49 lbs 18 — 22 kg Female: 35 — 44 lbs 16 — 20 kg Milestones: Ears may be standing up. Adult features are filling out. They are at least half of their adult size. They are still teething. Sexual maturity begins to emerge. Food: Juvenile should still be eating around two cups total three times a day. Month 6: Adolescent Growth Stage At 6 months old, they are making their way into the adolescent part of the German Shepherd growth stages. They will be starting to get into their sexual maturity stage which will last until they are around two years old. Hormones will kick in and males will begin to mark their territory and look for females to mate with. Females may go into heat for the first time. Their adult coat should be completely grown in but it could take a bit longer. Cuteness Factor: Equivalent to a teddy bear! Height: Male: 16 — 18 in 41 — 46 cm Female: 15 — 17 in 37 — 42 cm Weight: Male: 49 — 57 lbs 22 — 26 kg Female: 44 — 49 lbs 20 — 22 kg Milestones: Ears should be standing up. Adult features are more filled out. They are sexually active and will begin marking their territory and roaming for mates. Teething should be close to finished and all 42 of their adult teeth should be almost grown. Full adult double coat of fur should be present. Food: Adolescent should be eating around two to three cups total two times a day. Month 7: At 7 months old , a German Shepherd should be well developed cognitively. Their sexual maturity continues, and your leg may just become their next mate. Some aggression may be present as their hormones go up and down. Their weight gain begins to slow down for the first time only adding around 5 pounds from the previous month. They are looking much more like an adult dog. Aggression and sexual maturity continue. Teething should be close to finished. Food: Adolescent should be eating two to three cups total two times a day. They are still maturing and could still be aggressive and bark or lunge at other dogs, kids or people. This behavior must be reined in with the proper training. Teaching them new tricks is a great way to curb their aggression. Cuteness Factor: Still able to melt your heart! Height: Male: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Female: 18 — 20 in 45 — 50 cm Weight: Male: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Female: 53 — 57 lbs 24 — 26 kg Milestones: Ears should be well formed and perky. They continue to transition into adulthood. They are still maturing, and aggressive behavior may be present. Teething should be finished, and all of their adult teeth should be grown. Month 9: At 9 months old, German Shepherds have reached most of their milestones. They should be sporting a full set of 42 adult chompers and some nice big perky ears. They are still maturing sexually and could be exhibiting aggressive behaviors, but training should be in full force. Cuteness Factor: Not puppy cute but still irresistible! Height: Male: 21 — 23 in 54 — 59 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 64 — 71 lbs 29 — 32 kg Female: 55 — 60 lbs 25 — 27 kg Milestones: They are still growing but only gaining a few pounds a month now. Month By 10 months of age, GSDs are still trucking along in the adolescent stage. They will still be acting like teenagers and may be getting into some trouble. Although clever and smart they will sometimes act clumsy and goofy. They are still learning and should be in training. Cuteness Factor: Cute and nutty like peanut butter! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Female: 19 — 21 in 48 — 53 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 73 lbs 30 — 33 kg Female: 57 — 62 lbs 26 — 28 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Month Moving into month 11, German Shepherds are becoming more and more adult but may be stubborn. They may start to challenge their owner with respect to leadership. They need to know that you are in charge and that they must respect your commands. Training and reinforcement is crucial during this time period. Cuteness Factor: Cute enough to get out of trouble! Height: Male: 22 — 24 in 57 — 62 cm Female: 20 — 22 in 51 — 56 cm Weight: Male: 66 — 75 lbs 30 — 34 kg Female: 60 — 64 lbs 27 — 29 kg Milestones: They are still growing slowly. Month 1 year old German Shepherds are moving out of the puppy phase of the German Shepherd growth stages and into adulthood. By now they have most likely formed a strong bond with their owner. They may still misbehave occasionally but proper training should be paying off. Food: Adolescent should transition to adult food and be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: DHPP, rabies are recommended. Year 1. They are getting closer to sexual maturity. Cuteness Factor: Furry and plushness overload! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 55 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 79 lbs 32 — 36 kg Female: 60 — 66 lbs 27 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but slowly. Food: Adolescent should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Year 2: At 2 years old, they should be well along in their journey to adulthood. With the proper training and socialization, they should be transforming into the alert, confident, courageous, loving and loyal German Shepherd companion that makes them so popular among dog owners. They are pretty much full grown at this point with only a few more pounds to pack onto their athletic frame. Cuteness Factor: Perfectly precious! Height: Male: 23 — 25 in 59 — 64 cm Female: 21 — 22 in 53 — 57 cm Weight: Male: 71 — 84 lbs 32 — 38 kg Female: 62 — 66 lbs 28 — 30 kg Milestones: They are still growing but almost full grown. Vaccines: DHPP is recommended. Year 3: Adult Growth Stage Your German Shepherd is finally an adult with all of the beautiful characteristics and traits that people admire. They have reached physical and sexual maturity and are ready to brave the new world. Consistent training should have payed off. They should be calm and well disciplined. Height: Male: 24 — 26 in 60 — 65 cm Female: 22 — 24 in 55 — 60 cm Weight: Male: 79 — 88 lbs 36 — 40 kg Female: 66 — 70 lbs 28 — 32 kg Milestones: They are done growing. They have matured physically and sexually. Food: Full grown adult should be eating three to three and a half cups total two times a day. Vaccines: Rabies is recommended and can be required by law depending on your state. A full grown adult German Shepherd will stand approximately 22 to 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh between 70 and 88 pounds on average. However, some German Shepherds will get bigger even getting over a pounds. Hopefully your GSD is in the correct range. Keep an eye out for any deficiencies during their growth. These German Shepherd growth stages should help you determine all of the proper measurements to make sure they are right on track in their development. Each stage in their maturation is important. Remember to give them a high-quality healthy diet, plenty of exercise and sufficient training and socialization. These will all help lead to a stable and well-adjusted German Shepherd. Please leave a comment below and let us know what you think! Do you have any experience with a growing German Shepherd? Let us know! We would love to hear about your personal story! Share this:. German Shepherd Development: From Puppies To Adults Posted on Last updated: Categories German Shepherds From early puppyhood to adulthood, German Shepherds undergo significant development that shapes their temperament, behavior, and physical abilities. As a dog owner, understanding the developmental stages of your German Shepherd is crucial to providing the right care and training. German Shepherd development consists of several stages. Hey there! As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. We may also earn commissions if you purchase products from other retailers after clicking on a link from our site. Contents Final Thoughts German Shepherd Development and Growth Stages German Shepherd development refers to the physical, cognitive, and social changes that occur in German Shepherd puppies as they grow and mature into adulthood. These changes include the physical development of their muscles, bones, and organs, as well as their ability to learn and process information. Social development involves their ability to interact with other dogs and humans and to understand and follow social rules and norms. As a dog owner, it is important to understand the growth stages of your German Shepherd. Knowing what to expect during each stage can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. In the latter case, you need to know that the German Shepherd puppy depends on his mother for everything in these initial weeks. This includes food, warmth, and physical security. Here, your only responsibility is to make sure the dam is equipped with what she needs to fulfill her duties. As long as you feed the adult GSD right, she will be able to feed her babies and give them the warmth and company they need. You might notice that the puppies may seem asocial. Do not measure how the puppy interacts with other dogs for at least three to four weeks, which brings us to what you can expect within the next two weeks. This is where the puppy can wean off and not need a diet made up of milk exclusively. The puppy can consume solid food but is not too fond of it, especially if it is strange in texture. Your priority at this stage should be to get him to accept solid food without regressing to a diet of milk. There will be a social incentive in weaning off as the puppy will observe the litter he belongs to and notice a simultaneous change in feeding preferences. This brings us to a very important change: social interaction. I mentioned above that you should not worry about social disinterest up until the third week. However, by the fourth week, you should look for some interaction. If the puppy fails to acknowledge others in the litter or is getting shunned collectively, consulting an expert trainer or a vet can be helpful. Otherwise, the journey from being 4 weeks old to being adoption-ready is a long one, and it starts by accepting a human guardian. From weeks 4 to 5, the puppy is learning to accept a human usually the breeder as his guardian. Both dominant guardian and guiding guardian archetypes work in establishing yourself as the leader, but the dominant frame might box you into less palatable training tactics. German Shepherd puppies are quite intelligent, but a bulk of this cognitive ability is unlocked in two stages. The first is around the five-week mark. This could be the fourth or sixth week, depending on the individual puppy, but it is noticeable when the dog starts getting excited about other dogs. Of course, you need to be on schedule with socialization and carry-walks to notice this. Again, this explains why breeders usually keep the GSD puppies at this stage. Aggression issues can stem from excitement signaling menace. The opposite is true as well. Fortunately, professional breeders expose the dog to other dogs his age at this stage, and he learns to adjust how he shows and perceives excitement, making your life as a new German Shepherd parent much easier. But socializing your German Shepherd happens in stages as well. And of different ages. The wider the variety of people he gets to see and interact with at this stage, the more receptive he will be to people growing up. If your German Shepherd has seen only young people all his life, he might react differently to older ones and vice versa. This also applies to experiences. Exposing your puppy to experiences like car rides and ringing doorbells ensures that he will be calm in normal situations as he grows up. And in addition to getting your German Shepherd acquainted with normal stimuli like bells and travel, you must get him crate trained at this stage. Introducing the crate as a refuge and a secure spot as opposed to jail is a great way to get your GSD puppy to accept the crate. The more you delay this, the harder it becomes to crate-train a German Shepherd. If you want to check how his growth compares to the guidelines, head over to this article, When Do German Shepherds Stop Growing? This also includes a handy growth chart. This is a critical stage because if unchecked, your German Shepherd might end up hurting other dogs or be hurt by them. The watchful dog-parent in you that you were holding back has his chance to shine here. Make sure you keep a close eye on your German Shepherd and how he interacts with any other dogs in the house. The status-measuring step is one even adult dogs take when first interacting with each other. But at this age, dogs engage in prolonged status-measuring inquiry and either establish dominance or accept their subservient spot. You cannot force your German Shepherd to be the alpha in a relationship with another dog. GSDs are very physical, which is fine when two dogs play within the same breed. But if one of your doggos belongs to a relatively fragile lineage, you might want to consider some separation. If you are worried your German Shepherd playing too rough , click the link for some cool tips on how to limit rough play. The easier to walk your GSD is, the more enjoyable it will be for you both. This is better elaborated in my dedicated post on the fun exercises you can do with your German Shepherd puppy. At the same time, his physical energy levels are rising every day, which can be counterproductive as your German Shepherd can get uber-excited about physical activity. Make sure you have him on a no-pull harness instead of a collar-and-leash, so you can get him properly under control without hurting him. You can also see my other recommendations here. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below.

Next up is another thing to do before you bring your puppy home… How To Puppy Proof Your House When puppy-proofing your house, think like a puppy. Crawl around on the floor and take note of what you see. Puppies will chew nearly anything, so make sure that there are no valuables down at puppy-height, or things that could be poisonous to them or be a choking hazard. Make sure there are no open cabinets or pantries where your puppy could get into food. Be careful of small trash cans that could hold some smelly trash that would be enticing to a puppy. And finally, next are a few other random tasks to do before you bring home your new puppy. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! Not exactly. Find a vet. Find the closest emergency animal hospital. This is not something you want to wait until you need it before looking it up and making a plan. Find a list of local poisonous plants and animals. Talk to your vet and do some research so that you know which plants and animals to avoid. Find a puppy kindergarten class. This will help with training, socialization, and general learning how to be a puppy parent. Check your yard or house for any escape routes. This next section will cover everything from what to expect with a puppy, what to do the first 24 hours of bringing them home, how to train them, and more. A week after bringing Oliver home, it was very obvious to me why she asked me that. Puppies are hard work! Their little bladders can only hold it for a few hours, so this is expected. Chewing Puppies will try to chew any and everything. Like every thirty minutes often. Now, for the most important expectation of them all… You will miss puppyhood! Yes, you will miss the sleepless nights and puppy bites. So make sure to take lots of videos and pictures. How would you like to be treated in this situation? Here are some tips to help your puppy get comfortable in their new home. Let your puppy make decisions When you get to your house, set them at your open front door and let them choose to walk inside. Let them explore their new home on their own terms. Letting them make decisions can give them a sense of confidence, hope, and control, and ease into their new home. Limit visitors Now is the time to build the bond with your puppy and let them get to know you, not overstimulate them with a lot of people. Limit their access to your home Getting used to a new home with two rooms will be a lot easier than getting used to a new home with five rooms. Only let your puppy have access to a few rooms so that they get acclimated to their new area quicker, then as they get more comfortable you can allow them to explore new areas of the house. You can use baby gates to restrict access to sections of the house. Bonus benefit: this will also decrease the chances that they leave you a present in the guest room. In general, just keep things low key when you bring them home and let them get used to their surroundings. Training Your Golden Retriever Puppy Training your golden retriever puppy is one of the best things you can do both for them and with them. They have short attention spans and like to have fun, so short training sessions and training games work best. A lot of people think that training is just obedience training, like sit and stay , but it also includes life skills like crate training , potty training , how to not jump on people or bite them, and how to not pull on the leash. Socialization Socialization is something that is not talked about as much as it should be. It can help mitigate fear and aggression and help them become confident, well-adjusted adult dogs. You can socialize your puppy with other dogs by setting up play dates with gentle dogs that you know are vaccinated and by going to puppy kindergarten. Dog to other living beings includes humans, cats, and other animals. You can socialize them with other people by taking them to a pet-friendly store like home depot, and you can socialize them to other animals by taking a walk by the neighborhood cat with lots of distance between them, so neither animal gets overwhelmed. Dog to stuff is the broadest category, but no less important. When Oliver was very young we were on a walk and a FedEx truck drove by. He had never heard a big truck like that and was terrified. So make sure that your puppy is comfortable with trucks, cars, the garage door, buses, umbrellas, and whatever other objects they may encounter. For instance, if you live in Chicago, get them used to trains, buses and crowded streets. Every day, separate out five special treats for your puppy. For example, you might let your neighbor give your puppy a treat, or maybe you take your puppy to a bus stop and when the bus goes by you give them a treat, or maybe you introduce them to a cow and give them a treat. The treat helps them have a positive experience with these new things and people, plus it helps you easily remember to expose them to lots of these new things. Do this for the first four weeks of their life and before you know it, your puppy will have been exposed to new dogs, people, things, or environments, and will be well on their well to becoming a well-adjusted adult dog. Puppy Raising Mistakes Below are some mistakes that new puppy owners make that could make it harder to train and raise their puppy into a happy, confident adult. Not remembering how young they are Puppies are like little toddlers. Waiting to train your puppy until they have a problem Training your puppy before they have any behavior problems will make life so much easier for you. Forcing things too quickly Things like crate training and potty training take time. Setbacks hurt more than stretching their limits will help, so be patient and take things slowly. Conclusion Golden retriever puppies might just be the best living beings on the planet. However, they are a lot of work and can be quite naughty sometimes. Have any questions about golden retriever puppies? Let me know in the comments below! And if you know someone who is thinking about getting a golden retriever puppy, please share this with them. Related articles:. January 24, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? What does it take to be considered ideal for a family dog? How do you know if the Golden Retriever is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Golden Retrievers! Bred in the highlands of Scotland by Lord Tweedmouth in the mid to late s, Goldens are a cross between a Yellow Retriever and an extinct dog breed, the Tweed Water Spaniel. Lord Tweedmouth wanted the ideal gundog to accompany him during fowl hunting and be able to withstand the rugged terrain and rainy conditions. Aside from being able to retrieve fowl, Lord Tweedmouth wanted an even-tempered dog to have at home when not hunting. And so, the Golden Retriever was born. Later in the s, they soon became a popular breed amongst American families when President Gerald Ford had a Golden named Liberty as his family dog. Golden Retrievers, like their name states, are golden! Their luxurious coats come in a variety of light to dark shades, ranging from light like the white Golden Retriever or English Cream to dark golden colors, even close to chocolate. Their coats feature feathering down their backs, chest, belly, hindquarters, and tails. Goldens have soft expressions combined with floppy expressive ears that give them a puppy-like appearance even as adults. Another thing to note of the Golden Retriever is that those fluffy coats are actually what are known as double coats. A strong water repellant coat on top coupled with a dense undercoat to regulate their body heat. This all means these pups can be heavy shedders! What are Golden Retrievers Personalities like? There is something to be said about being named a perfect family dog. The Golden Retriever breed is loyal, affectionate, playful, and gentle. If brought into a home with children, your Golden Retriever puppy will be a great addition for help introducing your new Golden Retriever pup to your kids and how to play together, check out our blog! But being a great family dog doesn't mean they are easy! Goldens have lots of energy which can come out in more jumping and being more mouthy, especially as puppies. Check our training tips for raising a well-mannered Golden at the end of this blog! Two to three daily walks are a must, and throw in fun activities like hiking or going for a swim, your pup will stay golden! Golden Retrievers are eager to please type of breed. They generally have happy go lucky demeanors which lends itself to affection and friendliness, including toward strangers. If you wanted a pup that could eventually become a service dog, a Golden Retriever is a great choice and make for excellent working pups! As a high-energy breed, Golden Retrievers do best in a home that will provide them ample access to romp around. Homes with fenced in yards or access to a park or field on a daily basis where they can run and fetch to their hearts content are the best environment for Goldens! These pups, with consistent early socialization, can adapt and thrive to living in a home with other dogs, or pets, and children! They love to play and make great playmates. That being said, their social nature can lead to dependencies on their owners and family. Golden Retrievers may develop separation anxiety if left alone and not properly trained from an early age. Golden Retrievers may also contract heart disease called subvalvular aortic stenosis SAS that with early diagnosis and treatment can allow for a regular life-span. When you are looking to add a Golden Retriever puppy, make sure you are working with a reputable breeder that cares for the health quality of the dogs they breed. Take advantage of that natural drive and eagerness to please by setting foundations at home. Start your puppy a regular daily puppy schedule to create structured routines in the home. Include consistent feeding, nap, play and obedience training times throughout the day to help your Golden pup learn what to expect and build confidence at home. During their puppy training focus on their obedience commands to help your puppy learn to look to you for guidance, build their communication with you, and solidify a trusting relationship! Since Golden Retrievers love to work, positive reinforcement and food rewards will be valuable motivators to get your puppy focused and listening. In-person and online puppy training programs will walk you through how to teach the commands, exercises to help your puppy learn them, and troubleshoot when your puppy needs it! Teach Your Golden Retriever How to Greet New People and Dogs While their open friendly disposition will help your puppy make new friends where ever they go, make sure to teach your puppy the right way to do so! Some overly energetic and friendly pups can get excitable around new people and dogs. That can result in some unwanted whining, lunging, and jumping. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on those common over-excited behaviors when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer or join an online puppy training school to help set you up for the best success! Do Calming Obedience Exercises With all their high-energy and high-drive, teaching your Golden how to be calm in everyday scenarios will help tame that wild side! Great calming exercises include having your puppy learn to wait for their food bowl and in thresholds each time you enter or leave a space. This also extends to activities like fetch. Goldens are a natal for this! This can be done simply by having your pup drop the toy when they return and pausing for a few moments giving them a chance to settle before throwing it again for them to retrieve. Teach Them to Walk Nicely on Leash Many high-energy pups have a tendency to lunge toward exciting new things! Couple that with a social nature, and you may encounter that your Golden Retriever puppy will start to pull on leash. Focus on teaching them proper leash manners including how to walk in Heel position and how to pass other people and pups without lunging, jumping and excited whining, barking or nipping at them! That can greatly help possible bad encounters with strangers and other dogs while teaching them great habits! Did you recently bring home a Golden Retriever puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Golden Retrievers were first bred in the early s in Scotland as hunting dogs. Although they are still used for hunting, Goldens also excel at many other activities, including search and rescue jobs and guide work. They require ample exercise—swimming in particular is a great outlet for their endless energy, and most Goldens love it! Their beautiful coats require brushing and in some climates a summer trim may be in order. Goldens are intelligent, understanding, and eager to please their families. The Golden Retriever is a generally healthy breed with an average lifespan of years. That is why we have summarized the health concerns we will be discussing with you over the life of your Golden. By knowing about health concerns specific to Golden Retrievers, we can tailor a preventive health plan to watch for and hopefully prevent some predictable risks. That does not mean your dog will have these problems; it just means that she is more at risk than other dogs. We will describe the most common issues seen in Golden Retrievers to give you an idea of what may come up in her future. This guide contains general health information important to all canines as well as the most important genetic predispositions for Golden Retrievers. At the end of the article, we have also included a description of what you can do at home to keep your Golden looking and feeling her best. Unfortunately, your Golden is more likely than other dogs to have problems with her teeth. Dental disease starts with tartar build-up on the teeth and progresses to infection of the gums and roots of the teeth. Infections Golden Retrievers are susceptible to bacterial and viral infections — the same ones that all dogs can get — such as parvo, rabies, and distemper. Many of these infections are preventable through vaccination , which we will recommend based on her age, the diseases we see in our area, and other factors. Obesity Obesity can be a significant health problem in Golden Retrievers. It is a serious disease that may cause or worsen joint problems, metabolic and digestive disorders, back pain, and heart disease. Instead, give her a hug, brush her fur or teeth, play a game with her, or perhaps take her for a walk. Everything from fleas and ticks to ear mites can infest her skin and ears. Hookworms, roundworms, heartworms , and whipworms can get into her system in a number of ways: drinking unclean water, walking on contaminated soil, or being bitten by an infected mosquito. Some of these parasites can be transmitted to you or a family member and are a serious concern for everyone. Spay or Neuter One of the best things you can do for your Golden is to have her spayed neutered for males. In females, this means we surgically remove the ovaries and usually the uterus, and in males, it means we surgically remove the testicles. Spaying or neutering decreases the likelihood of certain types of cancers and eliminates the possibility of your pet becoming pregnant or fathering unwanted puppies. Performing this surgery also gives us a chance, while your pet is under anesthesia, to identify and address some of the diseases your dog is likely to develop. Routine blood testing prior to surgery also helps us to identify and take precautions against common problems that increase anesthetic or surgical risk. Genetic Predispositions for Golden Retrievers Cancer Cancer is a leading cause of death in older dogs. Your Golden will likely live longer than many other breeds and therefore is more prone to get cancer in his golden years. Many cancers are curable by surgical removal, and some types are treatable with chemotherapy. Early detection is critical! Hemangiosarcoma is a type of bleeding tumor that affects Golden Retrievers at greater than average incidence. These tumors commonly form in the spleen, but can form in other organs as well. Unbeknownst to a pet owner, the tumor breaks open and internal bleeding occurs. Some tumors can be volleyball-sized or larger before signs of sickness show. We often find clues that one of these tumors is present during senior wellness testing, so have his blood tested and an ultrasound performed at least yearly. Lymphoma or lymphosarcoma is a type of cancer that afflicts Golden Retrievers more than other breeds. This disease makes the body form abnormal lymphocytes, which are a type of white blood cell. Because white blood cells can be found throughout the body, this cancer can show up almost anywhere. Lymphoma is a very treatable form of cancer with an excellent success rate in dogs receiving chemotherapy. Luckily, lymphoma is one of the few types of cancer that can often be found with a blood test, so we may recommend a complete blood count twice yearly. Mast cell tumors are a particularly nasty type of skin cancer found more often in Golden Retrievers than other breeds. The sooner these tumors are surgically removed, the better. Unfortunately, mast cell tumors often look very similar to other kinds of skin lumps and lesions, many of which are not harmful. Therefore, all suspicious lumps should be tested and surgically removed as soon as possible. Many cancers are cured by surgical removal , so early detection is critical. Bloat Gastric dilatation volvulus, also known as GDV or bloat, usually occurs in dogs with deep, narrow chests. This means your Golden is more at risk than other breeds. When a dog bloats, the stomach twists on itself and fills with gas. The twisting cuts off the blood supply to the stomach and sometimes to the spleen. Left untreated, the disease is quickly fatal, sometimes in as little as half an hour. Your dog may retch or heave but little or nothing comes up , act restless, have an enlarged abdomen, or lie in a prayer position front feet down, rear end up. Preventive surgery in which the stomach is tacked down or sutured in place so that it is unlikely to twist is an option. If you see symptoms, take your pet to an emergency hospital immediately! Bone and Joint Problems A number of different musculoskeletal problems have been reported in Golden Retrievers. While it may seem overwhelming, each condition can be diagnosed and treated to prevent undue pain and suffering. Both hips and elbows are at risk for dysplasia, an inherited disease that causes the joints to develop improperly and results in arthritis. You may notice that he begins to show lameness in his legs or has difficulty getting up from lying down. We can treat the arthritis—the sooner the better—to minimize discomfort and pain. Surgery is also sometimes a good option in severe and life-limiting cases. And keep in mind that overweight dogs may develop arthritis years earlier than those of normal weight, causing undue pain and suffering! Unfortunately, Golden Retrievers can inherit or develop a number of different eye conditions, some of which may cause blindness if not treated right away, and most of which can be extremely painful! We will evaluate his eyes at every examination to look for any signs of concern. Cataracts are a common cause of blindness in older Goldens. Many dogs adjust well to losing their vision and get along just fine. Surgery to remove cataracts and restore sight may also be an option. Glaucoma, an eye condition that affects Golden Retrievers and people too, is an extremely painful disease that rapidly leads to blindness if left untreated. Symptoms include squinting, watery eyes, bluing of the cornea the clear front part of the eye , and redness in the whites of the eyes. Pain is rarely noticed by pet owners though it is frequently there and can be severe. People who have certain types of glaucoma often report it feels like being stabbed in the eye with an ice pick! Glaucoma is a medical emergency. Distichiasis is a condition caused by extra hairs that grow inside of the eyelid and rub on the surface of the eye. This is one of the most commonly inherited diseases in dogs, and your Golden is more likely than other dogs to develop this painful condition. If untreated, these abnormal hairs can cause corneal ulcers and chronic eye pain. Several treatment options are available, and the prognosis is good once the hairs have been permanently removed. Allergies In humans, allergies to pollen, mold, or dust make people sneeze. In dogs, rather than sneezing, allergies make their skin itchy. The feet, belly, folds of the skin, and ears are most commonly affected. Symptoms typically start between the ages of one and three and can get worse every year. Licking the paws, rubbing the face, and frequent ear infections are the most common signs of allergies. The good news is that there are many treatment options available for these conditions. Allergies, swimming, overgrowth of hair in the ear canals, and accumulation of earwax can all predispose your dog to ear infections, which are painful and annoying. Goldens are very often afflicted by allergies, which can cause itching and inflammation in the ears and elsewhere. The earlier we diagnose and treat these ailments, the less discomfort and pain your pet will suffer. Be sure to call us if you notice him scratching or shaking his head, a foul odor from the ears, or if his ears seem painful to the touch. By monitoring for ear infections and treating them early, we also reduce the likelihood of eardrum damage that can lead to deafness. Most ear infections tend to recur until we work together to control the underlying cause. Epilepsy There are three types of seizures in dogs: reactive, secondary, and primary. Secondary seizures are the result of a brain tumor, stroke, or trauma. If no other cause can be found, the disease is called primary or idiopathic epilepsy. This problem is often an inherited condition, and Golden Retrievers are commonly afflicted. If your friend is prone to seizures, episodes will usually begin between six months and three years of age. An initial diagnostic workup may help find the cause. Lifelong medication is usually necessary to help keep seizures under control with periodic blood testing required to monitor side effects and efficacy. Note the length of the seizure, and call us at or call an emergency hospital. Heart Disease Some Golden Retrievers inherit a heart condition known as aortic stenosis. This disease causes a partial obstruction to the blood flow leaving the heart, which means the heart must work harder to pump enough blood to the body. If the condition is severe, your dog may faint or seem to run out of energy during exercise. He may also have difficulty breathing, cough frequently, or have stunted growth. Golden Retrievers are also especially prone to a life-threatening heart condition known as dilated cardiomyopathy, or DCM, in which the heart becomes so large, thin, and weak that it can no longer effectively pump blood to the body. As this problem advances, your pet may act weak or tired, faint or collapse, breathe in a labored way, or cough. If indicated, treatment includes medication and dietary supplementation. Diabetes Diabetes mellitus is a fairly common disease in dogs. Any breed can be affected, but Goldens have an above average incidence. Dogs with diabetes are unable to regulate the metabolism of sugars in their bodies and require daily insulin injections. Diabetes is a serious condition and one that is important to diagnose and treat as early as possible. Symptoms include increased eating, drinking, and urination, along with weight loss. If he shows signs, we will conduct lab tests to determine if he has this condition and discuss treatment options with you. Treatment requires a serious commitment of time and resources. Well-regulated diabetic dogs today have the same life expectancy as other canines. Some of the blood supply that should go to the liver goes around it instead, depriving the liver of the blood flow it needs to grow and function properly. If your friend has PSS, his liver cannot remove toxins from his bloodstream effectively. Surgery may be needed, but in some cases, we can treat with a special diet and medication. Bleeding Disorders Your Golden Retriever is prone to a bleeding disorder called hemophilia. This is an important test as we may not otherwise know whether your pet has hemophilia until severe bleeding occurs during surgery or after a serious injury. Signs can include dry skin and coat, hair loss, susceptibility to other skin diseases, weight gain, fearfulness, aggression, and other behavioral changes. Treatment is usually as simple as replacement hormones given in the form of a pill. Taking Care of Your Golden Retriever at Home Much of what you can do to keep your dog happy and healthy is common sense, just like it is for people. Be sure to adhere to the schedule of examinations and vaccinations that we recommend for her. Another very important step in caring for your pet is signing up for pet health insurance. There will certainly be medical tests and procedures she will need throughout her life and pet health insurance will help you cover those costs. Routine Care, Diet, and Exercise Build her routine care into your schedule to help your Golden live longer, stay healthier, and be happier during her lifetime. We cannot overemphasize the importance of a proper diet and exercise routine. Supervise your pet as you would a toddler. Keep doors closed, pick up after yourself, and block off rooms as necessary. She needs a thorough brushing at least weekly most of the year. Twice a year she blows her coat and loses crazy amounts of hair; daily brushing is recommended during this time. Golden Retrievers generally have good teeth, and you can keep them perfect by brushing them at least twice a week! Clean her ears weekly, even as a puppy. She excels at dog sports like flyball, agility, dock diving, and obedience events. She has a passion for water, and swimming is a perfect form of exercise for this water retriever. Feed a high-quality diet appropriate for her age. What to Watch For Any abnormal symptom could be a sign of serious disease or it could just be a minor or temporary problem. The important thing is to be able to tell when to seek veterinary help and how urgently. Many diseases cause dogs to have a characteristic combination of symptoms, which together can be a clear signal that your Golden Retriever needs help. As long as they are socialised well as a puppy, Golden Retrievers can happily fit into family life. They are gentle but need to be treated with respect by all members of the family, including young children, as like any dog their patience will eventually run out. Common health problems in Golden Retrievers Like any purebred dog, Golden Retrievers may encounter some breed-related health problems throughout their lives. Often, Breed Clubs will also be able to provide advice on what tests your breed may need and where to get these done. Make sure the parents of your puppy have had the relevant health screening to reduce the chances of your puppy being affected by these upsetting conditions. For Golden Retrievers, this is because they can have short legs in proportion to their body and a tendency to become overweight. Eye problems — screening tests are available and dogs should be screened on a yearly basis, especially if intended for breeding. Multifocal retinal dysplasia - abnormal development and growth of the back of the eye retina which can lead to blindness. Generalised progressive retinal atrophy GPRA — slowly leads to progressive blindness over months or years. Retinal pigment epithelial dystrophy RPED, or central progressive retinal atrophy — a genetic problem which causes issues in the back of the eye retina and loss of vision. Glaucoma — high pressure within the eye causing pain and loss of vision. Ichthyosis — a skin disease that causes thickening of the footpads and makes other areas of skin rough and covered with thick, greasy flakes that stick to the hair. Caring for your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers are usually real big softies and can make a great addition to a home. How much noise they make will be down to the individual dog. Training and socialisation Golden Retrievers thrive off training and are very intelligent dogs. They love nothing more than to be given tasks to do to keep them occupied and have fairly good problem-solving skills — for a dog! As long as your Retriever is properly socialised from a young age , they should be confident around new people and situations. Retrievers also like their chill out time but will be more than happy to show you plenty of affection on their own terms. Exercise Golden Retrievers are very active dogs and need plenty of opportunities to exercise , play and get rid of excess energy. Your Golden Retriever will need a minimum of two hours of good exercise per day. You can find out how much exercise your dog needs , or even find exercises you can do together. Because they are intelligent dogs, Golden Retrievers can get bored easily so make sure you keep their brains active as well as their bodies. As their name suggests, retrieving is what they were bred for, so nearly all Golden Retrievers love a good game of fetch! Grooming Golden Retrievers have medium to long coats and generally do shed a lot. They are not a dog to take on if you hate hoovering! Ideally, they should be brushed or combed three times a week at a minimum. Where necessary you can trim their coat with the right tools, but seek advice from a professional dog groomer or vet first. You may also find that your Retriever loves water including any and all muddy puddles and swimming. Make sure they stay safe around the water and if they get mucky, use a dog safe shampoo. Will you give now to help people and pets in need? As the cost of living continues to rise, vet care could be out of reach for many. Donate to our emergency appeal now to provide vital vet care to pets in need and keep families together during this crisis. Donate Golden Retrievers and children If you have a young family then Golden Retrievers can be fantastic with children. If socialised properly from a young age, Retrievers can be quite calm and tolerant. Always supervise children and vulnerable adults with your Golden Retriever and make sure you can recognise the signs of unhappiness or anxiety in your dog to help avoid any conflicts. As with every breed, you should always teach children how to approach and play with dogs with care and kindness, to prevent any issues. Golden Retrievers and other pets Well-socialised Golden Retrievers are very easy-going, which usually means they can be great around other dogs and pets, too. Any introductions should be done carefully and following the right advice for your other pet, too. Always supervise your dog with other pets, even if they have known them for a long time. Obesity can cause other health problems for your Golden Retriever, so keeping them in shape is extra important. Make sure to monitor their weight and keep an eye out for any sneaky snacking. Your vet will be able to tell you how much your dog should be eating. If you give your dog an occasional treat or use treats for training, remember to take this into account and reduce their daily food allowance. Use healthy treats in moderation instead. You should try to feed your dog at the same time every day to get them into a routine. Remember to leave a gap before exercising and after eating. Beware unusually cheap puppies as they could come from a puppy farm. If you want to buy a pedigree puppy, we recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they have to do extra health tests and meet higher standards. Set-up costs Puppy vaccines — if you rescue a dog, reputable centres will often vaccinate them for you. Remember that ongoing booster vaccinations will be needed to continue their immunity. Neutering — you should usually arrange for your dog to be neutered at around months old, though your vet will be able to advise you exactly when is best. Check prices at your local practice as these will depend on your vet and where you live. Some rescue centres will neuter any dogs they rehome, saving you this cost. Equipment — including a collar and tags, lead, harness, dog beds, dog bowls, pet-safe toothpaste and toothbrushes, grooming brushes and toys. Keep in mind that all these will need to be replaced with wear or damage or if your dog outgrows or damages them! Ongoing costs Food. Preventive healthcare — budget for routine vet visits to help stop your dog getting ill and catch any problems early. They need annual check-ups, vaccinations and regular flea and worming treatments. Check if your vet offers a health care plan as this can help spread the cost throughout the year. Accessories — including lots of poo bags, replacing worn toys and grooming accessories, buying doggy toothpaste and any other extras they might need. Other costs Training — basic training is very important and dogs can benefit from formal classes. Some dogs may have, or develop, behavioural problems which might need professional management. Boarding — you may also need to budget for boarding or dog sitting costs if you are planning to go away from home on holiday. If you are having difficulty with veterinary costs, you can check if you are eligible for treatment at PDSA here. PDSA Pet Insurance Fun facts As they were bred to fetch game, they have a naturally gentle grip, called a 'soft mouth', so they don't damage the birds they carry back in their mouths. Golden Retrievers have an amazing sense of smell and are often used as search and rescue dogs in other parts of the world. They absolutely love water well, most of them do. Most Retrievers will take any opportunity to have a swim. Luckily, their coats are thick to keep out water and keep them warm. Golden Retrievers make really good assistance dogs and are often a top choice for training to be Guide Dogs for the Blind. Make sure you have the knowledge and dedication to give to these sweet natured dogs to keep them happy and the time and space to exercise them. While they make great family pets, make sure you are absolutely ready to take on the commitment of getting a dog first. Rehoming centres There are plenty of rescue centres across the country where you may find a Golden Retriever. Breed-specific rescues that specialise in Golden Retrievers are out there too. Good rescue centres should let you know of any health and behaviour problems. Breeders If you buy a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder, make sure your puppy will be well socialised and have all necessary health checks and vaccinations. We recommend looking for a Kennel Club Assured breeder as they meet higher standards. Not sure if the Golden Retriever is the right pet for you? Read the full disclosure here. They rely on you for everything and their health and well-being is well and truly in your hands. In order for your Golden to live as long and as healthy and fit a life as possible, you need to first educate yourself on how to care for them properly and build this knowledge into actions and routines. A balanced and nutritious diet, regular exercise , grooming and regular veterinary health checks are all essential parts of maintaining good health and quality of life. All of these are under your control. By taking steps to do the best for your Goldens health and monitoring their well-being regularly, you can prevent illnesses happening, avoiding pain and discomfort for your Golden and vets bills and heartache for you. At first, being a caring and responsible owner can seem a daunting and herculean task, but breaking it down into little manageable routines really does make it easy. Health Care Routines For Your Golden Retriever You should keep a diary and set up daily, weekly, quarterly and yearly routines to make sure every need is met and your Golden is well looked after. Example routines would be: Daily: Provision of nutritious food and clean water, regular and sufficient exercise, general health check via bodily inspections. Weekly: Inspection of ears, eyes and oral health and hygiene. Comprehensive grooming and nail care. Quarterly: Bath your Golden. In the past, any more often than this was bad for their coat quality and skin. Scheduled visits to a veterinarian and canine dentist, perhaps alternating every 3 months so two visits to each per year. Yearly: Vaccination top-ups. Following is a brief discussion of areas you need to pay attention to in order to care for your Golden well. Particularly during their puppy years they can get themselves into all sorts of trouble around your home and garden so you have to undertake a certain amount of puppy-proofing your home : Fence off swimming pools or ponds in your yard as they will get in there but being so small they may not be able to swim well and could find it impossible to get out unaided. Research the plants and flowers you have in your home and garden as there are in excess of one hundred plants known to be toxic to dogs and Goldens love a good chew! Remove or make safe any sharp items in your home that your Golden may play with, rub against or walk over in their playing. Hide away any electrical cables because a dogs sharp teeth and electricity are a particularly dangerous combination. Goldens can learn to open simple storage units and household chemicals therein are extremely dangerous to your dog. For now, just pretend you are an inquisitive dog, tour your home and garden and imagine just how they could get themselves into trouble in any of the areas they have access to. Then take steps to make those areas safe. Diet, Nutrition and Water Intake Dogs in the wild would hunt and scavenge, eating a wide variety of different foods, taking care of their own diet and ensuring they get all the nutrients they need. Modern dogs no longer hunt and scavenge and instead rely on their owners to provide them everything they need. You need to research, find and provide a good scientifically formulated diet to match their very particular nutritional requirements. You should note that a puppy has different nutritional requirements to an active adult dog, that is again different to a very senior dog who may have somewhat slowed down. There are dog foods balanced to meet a dogs different needs for each stage of their lives and activity levels. One thing you really need to watch out for with Golden Retrievers is over-feeding. And a Golden will never say no, they just love to eat! So please be mindful of their food intake and monitor their weight. No dog should be overweight. It can lead to joint problems, which leads to mobility problems, as well as diseases of their internal organs which can really shorten their lives. As well as good food, your Golden needs access to a good, clean and fresh supply of water every day. Dehydration is a real problem, as is over-hydrating in some dogs. And any drastic changes in their intake usually signifies an underlying health problem and you should seek the advice of your vet. Exercise Golden Retrievers are a sporting breed, bred for working and hence considered a high energy breed. To keep them fit and healthy and to occupy their minds you will need to provide them with lots of opportunity for structured exercise. Notice I said structured exercise! This means you cannot simply let them out into your yard and hope they take care of exercise themselves. They will walk around a bit and mostly just spend their time begging to be let back in with you. You have to plan structured exercise such as running, playing fetch or swimming. You have to take them out for a minimum of 45 minutes of exercise per day on top of their normal walks, and preferably with a good 2 hour bout of longer exercise at least once per week. The five minute rule is that a puppy needs no more than 5 minutes structured exercise per day for every month they have been alive. So a 4 month old puppy needs just 20 minutes, a 5 month old puppy 25 minutes etc. So take it easy with a puppy. Training Just how important training is for your Goldens quality of life cannot be overstated. A dog that listens to and responds to just a few well-trained commands can be kept infinitely safer than an untrained dog. So you should provide your Golden with a decent firm yet soft bed and a nice comfortable lining for their crate if you use one. If you have a yard and your Golden will be expected to spend any length of time outside you should provide a form of shelter so they can keep off the cold wet floor in winter and get out of the sun in summer. There are many options for suitable kennels and many of them are reasonably priced. If you fail to keep up a regular schedule of brushing, their coats very quickly become knotted and then matted and these are all but impossible to remove without the help of a pair of scissors. Regular brushing also helps to keep your Goldens coat clean and removes dead hair. When it comes to bathing, Golden Retrievers have a double coat and natural oils that help waterproof them so bathing too often is actually bad for their coats…at least it always used to be. Just be sure if you do wish to bathe them often that you research the shampoo used and pick one suited to regular bathing for Goldens. Human shampoo will never do as it will strip their oils and is too acidic for their skin and will irritate them. And cheap dog shampoos will strip the oils too. You kinda get what you pay for. To keep their coat healthy and prevent irritation you need to remove all the soap. Note: Click here for a selection of the best dog brushes suitable for your golden Nail Care Depending on how often your golden walks on hard abrasive surfaces, they will probably need their nails trimmed every 10 or 12 weeks. But if your golden is constantly walking pavements and roads, they may never need a trim due to concrete and tarmacs abrasive, nail-file like effect. Anyway, you should regularly check your dogs paws. This can be very uncomfortable for your dog and if it gets out of control even painful. You can quite easily trim your dogs nails at home , or you can take them to the vet where they will do the procedure for you. If you do wish to do it at home, I recommend taking your dog to the vet first and asking for advice on how to do it, being shown and learning from the pros rather than risking it alone from a book. Better safe than sorry! Look inside to make sure they are a healthy looking color, not bright red and inflamed. Also check for lots of small little grainy looking brown dots. These are the droppings of ear mites and a sign of a parasitic infection which should be treated ASAP. Dental Care Dental hygiene is an often overlooked area of dog care by many people but is very important. Much like us, dogs can suffer with tooth decay, cracked teeth, gum disease and a build up of plaque and tartar. Not only does this detract from the overall good looks of your dog, it can be quiet uncomfortable, sometimes painful and can lead to more severe problems if left untreated. So you should regularly check their teeth and gums yourself, make use of available chews that help to clean their teeth and take your dog to a canine dentist every 6 to 12 months. Try to treat your dogs teeth as good as you would treat your own. Parasitic problems Fleas, ticks and other parasites can be a real problem for dogs, leading to many problems ranging from mild skin irritation, to extreme sores and infections, and in the most extreme cases dramatic weight loss, tape worms and Lyme disease. So you should regularly check for parasites in your Golden which is very easy to do if you are sticking to a regular schedule of brushing their coats. Simply spend an extra minute to inspect closer to their skin looking for ticks, fleas or small dots droppings in their fur which would indicate the presence of parasites. Treatment for fleas and ticks can be administered at home as there are many treatments for this available over the counter. Try to make it every 6 months, but once per year as a minimum. This will allow your vet to become familiar with your dog which makes spotting changes easier for them. And it gives them a chance to spot problems early that you without an untrained eye may not pick up on. As always, prevention is better than cure and if there is ever a problem then catching it as early as possible is vital for more effective treatment and minimal pain and discomfort for your pet. Regular visits to the vet allow this early discovery. You will also need to see your vet to have your puppy vaccinated. There are many diseases, some fatal, that can be prevented easily with a course of vaccinations. Distemper, parvovirus and hepatitis as well as the infamous rabies can all be kept at bay with vaccines. A puppy will require shots starting at 6 weeks with a course of various shots taking them up to 18 weeks or so. The rabies shot is administered at about 6 months of age and after this your Golden will require just a yearly top up to maintain protection. Highly Recommended Training Course For a detailed program to follow in the form of a video library, including a step-by-step roadmap for raising a puppy from 8 weeks old all the way to a confident, well-trained and happy adult dog, you could do a lot worse than checking out The Online Dog Trainer. This program contains over follow along videos of an NZ SPCA endorsed professional dog trainer, covering all aspects of dog training, solving behavior problems in real life scenarios, explaining the theory, giving practical advice and more. You can see him getting real results in real-life consultations with his clients, so if you ever have a behavior problem you need to solve, you can follow along for almost guaranteed results. Of course, we are developing a fantastic training resource here at TotallyGoldens. Click here to learn more at TheOnlineDogTrainer. Caring For Your Golden Retriever Final Thoughts Regular grooming will keep your Golden retriever not only looking at their absolute best, but also with your help and intervention it keeps them healthy and disease free too. You May Also Like. If you also have brought a newborn golden retriever puppy to your home, you need to be extra careful in handling him. It is significant to note that newborn golden retrievers should not be handled like human babies. In this article, I will suggest you 10 tips that will definitely help you to take care of a newborn golden retriever effectively. Before owning golden retriever, it is necessary to know about his temperament— Know everything about golden retriever temperament Ideally, it is better to allow the mother of golden retriever puppy to take its care and responsibility. The puppy must be allowed to stay with his mother and the litter for the first few days. The puppy owner must take care of the puppy as well as its mother and ensure that they are totally comfortable and at ease. Mother as well as the puppy must be fed properly and their nutritional demands must be met properly. A newborn golden retriever puppy may have a lot of needs and its mother can take better care of its growing needs. Since, initially, the puppy is non-explorative, it requires more attention as far its safety is concerned. Mother as well as the dog owner must take care of the highly vulnerable puppy. Proper diet and clean water must be provided to the mother, especially if she is nursing her baby. It is important to ensure that high quality ingredients are available in the food being provided to the mother and the kid so that their nutritional requirements are met in the most effective manner. I have listed some good commercial foods that are must have for the mother of new born puppy:. Grooming Gear like Shampoo, Brush, and Nail Clippers Fun Toys You may hear or read about certain items that people find ever so important to their time with a puppy. However, how you raise your puppy is completely up to you. What are some of the top suggested items you might consider? Car harness Poop bags and sanitary equipment Walking Harness Items such as a walking harness, car harness, and a crate can help you during the training process. These allow you to have better control over your golden retriever puppy during situations such as travel, times away, and even socialization. If you do not have a backyard area for your puppy to play and go potty in, there are many different sanitary objects you might consider picking up. Apartments, parks, and public areas will require you to pick up after your little buddy when they use the restroom, so having these handy will make things easier on you! Puppy Proof Your Home Having a puppy is exactly like having a new baby in your home. Puppies love to chew on things, get into trouble, and all around be mess makers. They baby-proof it! In areas, they are allowed to roam in, try to investigate any unsecured cupboards, trash bins, or cabinets they may be able to get into. You can either clear the space or get baby-proof locks to keep the puppy out. Take the time to also secure any loose wiring they can nibble on! Pick a Vet You Trust The puppy stages are when the most crucial health checkups and vaccinations occur. Take the time to research vets in your area who have good ratings and are available on your schedule. Then, call them! Finding a vet you can trust and who is happy to help can be a huge relief to you and your puppy. Puppies are hard work! There are certain steps you should take to make training and care of your puppy as easy as possible for the early learning stages and future situations. Let Your Puppy Acclimate When you go to a new place, it is all at once exciting, overwhelming, and a little upsetting. People get homesick and need time to acclimate to a new place, so is it any surprise the same is true for your new puppy? This may be their first time away from their mom and siblings. Let them investigate their forever home, find all the new smells, and get their legs. Make a Plan and Stick to It Before your golden retriever puppy arrives, build a routine and make a game plan for how you will handle situations. Puppies need a lot of care as they are learning, and knowing how you expect to handle accidents or missteps, such as accidental potty indoors, can help you remain strict but loving as you train your puppy. On top of that, keeping a routine such as set food times, walk times, and play times can help your puppy get the ropes more quickly. They will learn approximately when it is time to do certain things and allow you to get work done as they make naps fit your schedule. Socializing and Training Golden retrievers are smart, but just like any dog, working on socialization and training early can help you and your puppy build a stronger relationship. Potty training and obedience training are big hits, of course, but also keep in mind distance training and manners. Training your dog to understand when you are away that you are coming back can prevent them from having anxiety issues or dealing with damaged belongings. Manners training and socialization nearly go hand in hand. Having them meet new people and animals ensures they will be able to handle newcomers to your home or in public. Take the time to make every socialization a thorough learning experience where you train them not to jump or pull. Give Them Love Not every session with your dog should be training non-stop. Golden retriever puppies need love and cuddle time too! Be sure to play with your puppy and snuggle him as much as possible. You can even take him or her on adventures to let them have new experiences! Be sure to also offer them some alone time. It may sound silly, but letting them go around on their own allows them to explore the home and learn it is theirs. They can also process lessons they learned during the day! Share this:.

A little about us North Mountain Kennels is proud to offer quality German Shepherd puppies for sale, bred from some of the best sires and dams in the world. From meticulously bred service dogs to family pets, North Mountain Kennels has the perfect German Shepherd puppy for you. About Our Breeder Audrey is not just your average dog trainer. She is highly educated in all things K9. She has obtained 2 Masters Degrees from London Hanover University College of Zoological Studies with a concentration in canine behavior from a neurological perspective. This allows her to learn that what we "see" as the outward behavior and how it begins on a cellular level in brain. Truly understanding at an in-depth level of the animal that many "Trainers" do not understand or have any desire to understand what creates behavior and where it begins in the brain. Knowledge is power and with this knowledge Audrey Estep carefully crafts training plans developed for each puppy in training rather the a cookie cutter approach to all dogs. My services are designed with you and your pet in mind, and I believe in working as much with you as with your pet. Happy Healthy Bloodlines Great genetics make for a confident well rounded puppy that is suitable for companion, sport, IPO, or police K9. However, not all great quality breeding stock are titled European German Shepherd dogs. I'm selecting dogs with a history of producing consistent sound and healthy offspring. Not all dogs in my program have an OFA score on hips and elbows. My dogs generally have a European score on hips and elbows since they are tested prior to import. Furever Friends My puppy program revolves around creating the most sound animal for whatever your purpose is from birth. Puppies are exposed to a number of environmental obstacles, smells, sounds and sights to ensure confidence and sociability. Our Puppies All puppies are vaccinated, treated for internal and external parasites, micro chipped and come with AKC papers to register you puppy. What our customers have to say about North Mountain Kennels Don't just take our word for it, see what our customers have to say about us, our puppies, and the programs we offer! Proven Results. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in Virginia? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in Virginia cost? The cost of buying a German Shepherd puppy is going to depend on a few things. That includes the experience of the breeder, and the pedigree and coat color of the dog. So for example, you could pay different prices for Sable German Shepherd puppies for sale Virginia, black German Shepherd puppies for sale in Virginia, white German Shepherd puppies in Virginia, and so on. Can I pick a breeder outside my state? You certainly can. When you choose Uptown, you can pick a breeder in any part of the country. You can then choose to pick up your new German Shepherd puppy in person, or have your pooch flown to your nearest major airport. And no need to worry - German Shepherd Virginia puppies fly in the cabin, not stowed in the hold. How do you screen breeders before you add them to your network? Not a day goes by without us receiving applications from German Shepherd breeders in Virginia and companies from all over the country, all wanting to join our network. You can see all the details in our Breeder Pledge. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other places? Sadly though, many breeders are only concerned about money, not about the welfare of their puppies. What is a puppy mill exactly? Puppy mills breed dogs for one purpose - to make as much money as possible. Litter after litter are produced in squalid, dirty conditions, with no thought given to their care or welfare. As a result, German Shepherds for sale Virginia from a puppy mill are likely to be poorly socialized and suffer from underlying health conditions, potentially costing you thousands in extra vet bills. You might be looking for a specific gender, coat color, eye color, pedigree, or even for a German Shepherd hybrid breed. Whatever you want, the breeders and companies in our network will help you find your dream dog. You can then either choose to go pick up the pup in person, or ask the breeder to arrange for your dog to travel to an airport near you. How do I know I can really trust you? We want you to have a great, lasting relationship with your Virginia German Shepherd for sale, but we also want you to have the same kind of relationship with us. Do German Shepherds make good dogs for families? With the correct training and upbringing, German Shepherd puppies Virginia make loving and faithful family members, developing strong bonds with their favorite humans. What are the origins of the German Shepherd breed? German Shepherds for sale in Virginia originated in Germany at the very end of the 19th century, first bred to herd sheep. To create the best sheepdogs, the smartest, easiest to train dogs were picked - and those traits are still apparent in their modern descendants. .Since part of their original role was to guard sheep from wild beasts, it's hardly surprising that Virginia German Shepherds for sale also make excellent watchdogs.

The effect is producing a sociable and friendly pet for everyone. Their dog breeding program started in , where the grandmother showed Scottish and Manchester Terriers. Right now, they are breeding fawn and black pugs that abide by the AKC standards. All their pups are raised indoors, so they are friendly to people. They are sociable and capable of joining dog shows. In fact, the majority of their pugs are still joining dog shows in Oregon, Idaho, Washington, and Northwest America. As a reputable pug dog club, they train all their dogs before adoption. They have different pug breed available for you to choose from. Some of these are black pugs and fawn. As a member of the American Kennel Club, all pugs evaluated are of the highest quality. They are sociable and friendly to people. All pets are vaccinated, spayed, and groomed. All pugs are litter box trained as well. Hoskins Pugs have been breeding quality AKC registered pugs for around fifteen years. Their pride pugs are one of the best in Washington and Oregon. Visit their website to get more information about them. C Pride Pugs prioritizes the quality of Chinese pugs they are selling in Washington. All their pups abide by the AKC standards, so you can expect they are vaccinated, spayed, and inserted with microchips for easy tracing. All their pug breeds stay in a family-like place, this is to make them sociable to children. You can have them as your best friend since they have good social skills. These pups are as sociable as poodles, so having them as part of the family is great. It helps them give early medical treatment for any diseases on their dogs. If you want to know more about them and their programs, visit their website. You can also call their office for inquiries. Email: charliehoskins13 comcast. Hoskins Pugs is run by a retired military, Pug-loving, family from Olympia, Washington. They care about producing top of the line, quality Pugs from their own home. All Pugs are clean, well cared for, and an important part of the Hoskins family. Aura Pugs Email: aurapugs gmail. They strive to always put health first and do their best to better the breed. Aura Pugs tests for health concerns and have their Pugs evaluated and vetted at different stages. All dogs are raised in the home as members of the family, promoting good social skills and manners. Aura Pugs show their dogs regularly throughout the Northwest, and invite prospective owners to come and visit them. These breeders have a dedication and commitment to the Pug breed that drives them to provide a loving haven for their dogs. All Pups are well socialized and bred to AKC standards with parents on site. C Pride Pugs go to their forever homes equipped with AKC registration papers, vet checks, dewclaw removal, vaccinations, and deworming. All Pug parents are genetically tested and puppies are sold as pets with a limited AKC registration. Puppies are baby checked and microchipped before being rehomed and come with a health guarantee and lifelong advice. This Pug loving family from Washington wants to spread the joy that Pugs bring to others. All Grumble of Love Pugs are bred from the comfort of the family home. Each pup is loved and cared for by Aneta, her husband Chris, and their two boys. She is a longtime breeder of Pugs with a special interest in colored Pugs. Her dogs are all pets and live in the home with humans. Puppies have the opportunity to become well socialized with children, adults, and other dogs. Stephanie is available for advice for as long as you might need. They love their dogs and show commitment to the betterment of the breed in everything they do. But how can you spot reputable breeders when you start searching for a Pug puppy? Here are some tips to help you out. A good breeder will… 1. Issue a health guarantee Make sure that your breeder of choice offers a health guarantee. A reputable Pug breeder will write up a binding health guarantee for all of their puppies. The guarantee protects you against any genetic defects or diseases. It shows that the breeder is confident that their puppies are bred according to best practices. This means if you can no longer look after your pup for some reason, you will be expected to return the puppy to the breeder rather than taking them to a shelter. Provide standard health clearances Your breeder should have full health clearances for both parent Pugs. Good breeders often provide some early health-check clearances for their pups too, although some health clearances simply cannot be carried on such young pups. Issue a written bill of sale Reputable breeders offer written bills of sale to all of their new Pug parents. This bill of sale should be signed and will outline all the roles and responsibilities to be taken on by the buyer and seller as part of the transaction. Vaccinate their puppies All puppies should be up to date on their vaccinations before being homed with new families. Your breeder of choice should be able to provide evidence of these vaccinations. Reputable breeders welcome prospective parents into their homes to see the puppies. Follow age guidelines Puppies should never leave the litter before 8 weeks of age. Any breeder offering pups for adoption before this time is not following best practices. In fact, this could be quite damaging for the puppy developmentally. A reputable breeder will keep their pups at home until eight to twelve weeks so that they can be properly socialized and spend that crucial time with their mother and litter-mates. Answer your questions Last, but not least, a reputable breeder will be knowledgeable. In most cases, they will also want to ask you plenty of questions to ensure that their precious pups are going to good homes. We have a strict selection process that takes a variety of factors into account. That way we can ensure that only the best breeders end up on our lists. This way we know that our chosen breeders offer genetically sound and healthy puppies. Health testing shows a commitment to the health and wellbeing of each Pug. Contact information Any breeder that does not offer up their contact information is a big red flag. A reputable breeder will make it easy for you to get in contact with them by providing telephone numbers, email addresses, and they will usually have a well-established website as well. It shows a commitment to breeding best practices. Event participation Breeders who also compete in doggie events are often some of the best. Because these people tend to be dog lovers par excellence. They live and breathe for their Pugs and are proud to show them off in public. They are also more likely to have a high level of breed knowledge — an excellent sign for a breeder. Breed club membership There are lots of breed clubs out there that breeders can register with. These clubs have rules, regulations, and membership fees. If your breeder is registered with the Pug Dog Club of America, this is a great sign showing commitment to the Pug breed. Recognition awards Lastly, we look out for awards! Institutions like the AKC recognize the efforts and achievements of top breeders. The very best will be awarded the AKC recognition of merit award. During this time we recommend getting everything ready before your new arrival rattles through the front door. Your puppy will need: a crate for sleeping and training during the early days quality puppy-grade food a leash and harness plenty of toys You may also wish to purchase a puppy gate if there are areas of your home that you want to keep your Pug away from. This is all about making your home as safe as possible for your new arrival. Make sure anything that could potentially cause harm to your pup is removed. Clear your schedule Having a Pug puppy is a bit like having a human baby. So make sure to clear your schedule and get all of those errands done ahead of time! Once they arrive… 4. Avoid crowds Hold your excitement. That means no crowds. Try to keep the home environment as stress-free as possible so that your puppy can settle in and start to feel part of the family. Crate training is the first step. Lay down a regular routine from the get to and your Pug will be good as gold in no time.

We can be reached at or PUPS and by email at stacy tlcpuppylove. Chocolate Toy Poodle Puppies. Silkwind Toy Poodles in Florida. We are committed to providing exceptional family raised Doodle puppies including Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, Cavapoos, Aussiedoodles, Sheepadoodles, and Swiss Doodles. He is a stunning energetic boy, very lively and full of love to give. Litter of 5 Toy Poodles ready to go 25 Nov .Quality phantom and solid toy poodles. I'm Located in Central FL. Our Toy Poodle puppies come from top Toy Poodle dog breeders. We carry pure breeds and designer breeds. Find a Poodle puppy from reputable breeders near you in Jacksonville, FL. They are pad trained and very in. He is very well behaved, listening and extremely responsive, needs loads of cuddles and attention. Call me! Toy Poodle Puppies for Sale near. Find your Toy Poodle puppy for sale in Florida. French Bulldog. Isn't that really hard for. Miniature, ten to fifteen inches in height at the shoulder. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets. Take a look at our cute, tiny, Fur Babies! These precious Toy Poodle puppies are the most. About Poodles. Boston Terrier. Elegant but goofy, proud but friendly, and refined but playful, Poodles seem to have it all—including an allergy-friendly coat! Mom is a 9 pound Shih Tzu and Dad. My love for the poodle started at a very early age. Page 2: Toy Poodles for Sale in Jacksonville. Travits Tcups And Toys. We are open today! Come visit our beautiful Toy Poodle puppies we have for sale near. Whether it is a family pet, service dog, Poodle puppies for sale in Jacksonville, FL from trusted. They all have the sweetest characters! They are CKC registered and have actually been to my veterinarian and received their wellness certifications! They may be best known for fancy haircuts and a regal manner, but they're also great athletes and very, very smart. Toy Poodle For Sale in Florida .The hypoallergenic coat requires grooming by professionals. She is CKC registered and will come with a health certificate from my vet. Note: If you would like to secure a puppy with a deposit, feel free to come out in person or you. Toy Poodles are considered among the most intelligent of dog breeds. Customer service does not end with your decision to purchase a puppy from us, rather that is where it begins. He is so sweet. Our Miniature Poodle puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. Poodle Miniature Puppies for Sale near Jacksonville. Our breeders are true dog lovers and professionals of the highest standards. His name is Peeru and he prefers the. Toy Poodle puppies for sale. Joy is guaranteed with a Poodle puppy around as these beauties thrive in any household. Please text or call XXXX for more picture and information. Here, at Premier Pups, we work hand in hand with the nation's most reputable breeders to offer small Poodle puppies for adoption in the Jacksonville, Florida area. Best Poodle Breeders Jacksonville, Florida. According to Embark 13 pounds full grown weight. Miniature Poodles for Sale in Jacksonville. Poodles come in three sizes: Standard, Miniature, and Toy. Toy Poodle Puppies for Sale near Jacksonville. His name is Peeru and he prefers the company. We are a family oriented hobby breeder located in Jacksonville,Florida. Miniature Poodles are typically around 10 to .Female Toy Poodles for Sale in Jacksonville. Toy Poodle Puppies for sale in Jacksonville, Florida. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Toy Poodles We have some adorable Poodles available for sale. They come in a variety of colors. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Find Poodle puppies for sale Near Jacksonville, FL Versatile and impressive, the Poodle excels on the show floor, in parks, and in the home. Items per page: 10; 25; 50; My searches. He is very well behaved, listening and. We will also special order breeds — just let us know what you need! Call Us Email Contact puppyquestions aol. We have some adorable Poodles available for sale. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. She loves children and requires lots of. I suffer from severe allergies and the poodle breed is the ONLY breed that causes me zero problems! With that being said, I decided to breed. Poodle puppies in Jacksonville, FL may span multiple sizes, which range from: Toy Poodles are typically around 6 to 9 pounds. AmericanListed features safe and local classifieds for everything you need! Learn more 1, puppies available 1, certified breeders Transportation Location Size. Our goal is to provide you with the healthiest pet for your family. Or looking for something different? We can help! They are known for their curly, hypoallergenic coat that comes in a variety of colors, including white, black, and apricot. Toy, Teacup and Parti Poodle Breeders. Poodles for Sale in Jacksonville. At Premier Pups, we take pride in providing high-quality poodle puppies to families and individuals in the Jacksonville, Florida area. Toy Poodle Puppies For Sale. Developed in Germany, the Toy Poodle is one of the most trainable breeds with cheerful and lively personality. Pomeranian Puppy Pomeranian .Please contact us with any questions or if you would like more information. Are you looking for an adorable, spunky and playful cuddle buddy to add. This, combined with their sweet nature, elegant looks, and tiny size makes them a great option as family pets. However, they can live between 12 and 14 years — this makes them a commitment! Some good signs include a list of health tests that can be cross-referenced with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA , willingness to show documentation of all test results, and membership in dog clubs American Kennel Club, United Kennel Club, or Canadian Kennel Club. If you decide to purchase a puppy from a pet store, make sure to check their reviews on Google, Yelp, other directories, and forums. Our list originally included 26 breeders in Florida, but we removed 4 because of bad customer reviews and even several fraud allegations — do everything you can to ensure you are not scammed. When talking to a breeder, do not be afraid to ask questions — check if they test their dogs and keep them current on vaccinations and other treatments. As you may have noticed, many of the breeders on our list require you to fill out an application or questionnaire. Breeders that only care about your ability to pay the full price should be avoided! Remember that not all breeders have available puppies at all times and that it is normal to be placed on a waiting list. Check how many litters they have each year as the American Kennel Club AKC considers 7 or more litters a year to be a high volume breeding — breeders with lots of puppies might not properly raise and socialize each animal. All poodles that are up to 10 inches high at the shoulder are toy poodles — if they are even smaller than that, they are still toy poodles. If visiting in person, check the environment the puppies are raised in — make sure that they are kept in clean areas, there are toys dogs can play with, they have enough room to exercise, there is fresh water available, and that the puppies are clean and well-groomed. After getting a puppy, have a veterinarian inspect it in the first 48 hours. Remember to check with the breeder that the sire and the dam have been tested and found free of specific hereditary health problems, as this increases your chance of getting a healthy puppy. As with any other purchase, before buying a toy poodle, make sure to do a lot of research, do not buy from the first farm you visit, and take each of these points and many others into consideration when choosing your next pet. Summary And there you have it! Before buying the animal, make sure to call and see if the farm currently has puppies available for sale, check the animal in person, and have a veterinarian inspect your animal as soon as you get it. Stay safe from scammers and always request a video call verification before paying for anything. Poodles can be great pets as they are friendly, easy to maintain, cute, smart, and entertaining animals. Remember to take care of your new pet regularly to ensure it lives a long and happy life. Post navigation. She is 3 yrs. She weighs 8 lbs. She is up to date with all her shots and her rabies shot is good for 3 yrs. Puppy pads and her food will come along with her and is inluded in the price. Only interested need xxxxx. These precious Toy Poodle puppies are the most loyal, loving and cuddly! With a playful and tender warm temperament! Raised in a family setting, great with kids and are very well behaved. Perfect for a family pet! All of them are vet checked and dewormed, as well as up to date on their vaccinations! Our Fifth Generation Pure Bred puppies are as happy and healthy as can be! We do the best we can to find these sweet friends a great loving home! She loves children and requires lots of love and attention. Please help me find her a new home! Jacksonville Area If interested email me: xxxxxxxxxxxxxxxx xxxxx. Super Adorable Teacup Poodle Puppy! Super cute and cuddly. Fully grown he will only be lbs. Veterinarian checked, he is healthy with all shots up to date. They are loved and handled every day to ensure your new baby is very well socialised and used to a busy family environment. TEXT xxx xxx-xxxx. View Detail Puppy- toy poodle I need to rehome my 4 month old toy poodle due to not being able to give him time and compainship, he is the sweetest most adorable puppy ever. Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.Top 30 Smartest Dog Breeds In The World If you're a dog lover, you've probably heard the age-old debate: which dog breeds are the smartest? While all dogs have their own unique intelligence and personality, some breeds have proven to be consistently brilliant over time. In this guide, we'll explore the top 30 smartest dog breeds ranked, from problem-solving whizzes to trainable and intuitive pups. We've done our research to provide you with an updated and informative.These pooches are joyful, lively, eager to please dogs. They are adventurous, kind, family-oriented pups who love hiking, swimming, canine games, sports and any, and all, family activities. These puppies are merry and bouncy little marshmallows. They are cuddly and sweet pups who love running around, playing, making friends and are very enthusiastic learners. The breed is divided into 3 recognized categories: Toy Poodle; Mini; Standard. Although they differ in size, one thing is for sure: they are glamorous companion pets. Delivery to your door by car is available in some areas. If you prefer the puppy to fly with you in cabin, a meeting at the airport in Birmingham, Huntsville, or Atlanta can be arranged. Flight nanny service where I personally deliver the puppy to your airport is also another available option. Of course, local pickup is always available in Northeast Alabama. .We place quality above quantity and usually have puppies only twice a year. All litters have at least 1 AKC Champion parent. Please visit our Articles page to make an educated decision and avoid the pitfalls of the Backyard Breeder! The possible colors are white, red, apricot, or black. We do not produce "parti poodles" as they are outside of the official AKC Standard for Toy Poodles and a disqualifying trait in the show rings. Age of Adoption All puppies must be at least 8 weeks of age AND weigh 2 lbs or more in order to be adopted. Shipping is available. We occasionally have retired spayed or neutered adults or rescue toy poodles that we may be looking to place in a good home. The price for these dogs will vary but will be a nominal fee just enough to cover any vet expenses incurred to bring the dog up to date on vaccines, spay and neuter, or dental procedures. These dogs do not come with the Abounding Poodle Guarantee and their age can be from a few months old to a senior canine. Please contact me for availability. Cost of Puppies A careful breeder will spend as much money on their dogs if not more than they earn from litters born. These expenses come from vet bills, thorough health testing , quality care and living conditions, AKC Dog Show competitions, dog handler fees, and the list goes on. In purchasing an Abounding Poodle , you get a quality dog from tested lines. You can buy a lot of "cheap" dogs from a Backyard Breeder who does not invest money into their breeding stock. You won't know what you are getting, and may end up paying thousands of dollars in vet bills later after you have fallen in love with the puppy. This is not the time to hunt for a bargain. Your new puppy will be a member of your family for its lifetime. Make a wise investment in the quality and health of your dog and you will almost guarantee fewer veterinary bills in the long run. We price our puppies taking in consideration the type of contract and registration full, limited, or none , their genetics, conformation pet or show quality , age, and size. Our prices will vary as explained above. We may also sell to carefully picked show homes or to a consciencious breeder with full registration under a different contract and price. Please contact me to know what I have available at that moment and their prices. Life Expectancy Breed Facts Poodles were originally bred in Germany as hunting dogs who worked with their owners in retrieving waterfowl. The Poodle is widely known to be the most intelligent dog breed in the world. They train with ease and enjoy one on one engagement with their human best friend. There are three types of Poodles that the American Kennel Club recognizes. The most common and well-known is the standard Poodle, followed by the Miniature Poodle, and then the Toy Poodle. Poodles are social and outgoing dogs that tend to have a warm demeanor. They are mentally alert and very observant of their surroundings. Poodles have a very eager-to-please personality and enjoy the praise they receive after mastering a new trick. This breed is an exceptional family dog and gets along well with children and other animals in the home. They also easily adjust to apartment-style or conventional-style homes. It comes in nearly one dozen colors which include white, black, apricot, cream, and brown to name just a few. This makes routine grooming very important. Using a pin brush, gently brush its fur and work out any knots. A bi-weekly bath is also suggested, which will keep him looking and feeling his very best. Poodles younger than four months in age should be provided with four meals a day. When they reach five months in age, they do best with three meals per day. At six months old, they should have two meals per day spaced apart in twelve-hour intervals. Poodles also require thorough and routine teeth cleaning. It is suggested that they have their teeth brushed at least three times every week. The largest Poodle is the Standard Poodle who stands between fifteen and twenty-two inches tall. The Standard Poodle weighs forty-five to seventy pounds. The mid-sized Poodle, also known as a Miniature Poodle, tends to stand eleven to fifteen inches tall. The Miniature Poodle weighs between fifteen and twenty pounds. The third type of Poodle, known as the Toy Poodle, generally grows to about ten inches tall. The Toy Poodle weighs a mere six to nine pounds. Each of these Poodles has an average life expectancy of twelve to fifteen years. Fact: Poodles were originally bred in Germany, not France, as many believe. Fact: This breed is considered to be the most intelligent breed of dog in the world. Fact: Poodles are excellent swimmers. Frequently Asked Questions Is it appropriate to neuter my Poodle? It is okay to neuter a poodle. However, it is only appropriate to neuter mature dogs Are Poodles affectionate? Yes, poodles are affectionate and loving, good with family, but they can be aggressive to outsiders. I own a Toy Poodle; can it be neutered too? Its all about maturity, male toy poodles can take 6 to 7 weeks while females 7 to 12 months to reach the age for neutering. How do I get my Poodle's hair to become curly? After washing, leaving the dog to dry out naturally will return its hair to its natural curly structure How much grooming does a Poodle need? Poodles require professional grooming every 3weeks. Therefore, grooming a poodle requires careful and judicious effort. At what age should Poodles be adopted? This is dependent on you; poodles can be adopted from 8weeks if you can care well enough for them. Do Poodle puppies shed? All dogs shed hair. However, the poodle sheds less than most breeds. Its shedding is not enough to trigger any allergies Is it okay to keep Poodles with the children? Poodles are loving. This ability goes for all types of poodle. Do Poodles like water? Yes, the poodle loves to swim. They were originally bred as water retrievers in France and Germany Do Poodles bark a lot? Poodles are observant; easily alert to whatever goes on around them. They are also energetic and intelligent. The poodle is a good dog breed that is beautiful and strong. They are good companion dogs but require a great deal of grooming. Are you interested in purchasing a Poodle? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.