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French Bulldog Insurance How much are french bulldog puppies? The price tags for a Frenchie puppy can be steep. The cost of these types of dogs is partly due to the high cost production and care. This is because they can require a lot of care and vet fees are expensive due to the breathing conditions commonly developed by this breed. Ongoing Costs When it comes down to it, owning any type or breed dog is an investment in time, money, and effort—but some breeds tend to come with higher prices than others when you take into account both upfront costs as well as ongoing expenses such as vet bills or pet insurance premiums. French Bulldogs can be very expensive dogs to own because as flat-faced dogs they commonly develop breathing conditions which require expensive surgery. French Bulldog Insurance Because of these high vet fees for french bulldogs it is a good idea to get pet insurance for them. However, those costs also means pet insurance for French Bulldogs can be very expensive. It is worth shopping around to get the best value pet insurance cover for you and your dog. At Emerald Life we insure many French Bulldogs for a much more reasonable premium than other providers. Get a quote now and see how much you could save. However, that price can increase significantly, even into five figures, depending on the location and reputation of the breeder. Reproducing requires artificial insemination. These factors increase the investment for French bulldog breeders. The more investment a breeder makes into producing healthy high-quality dogs in good environments, the higher the price will be. The rarer the color is, such as blue, lilac or chocolate, the more you can expect to pay. Certain coat patterns, such as pied, merle or brindle, will also be more expensive. Female French bulldogs and those with blue eyes are pricier as well. Adopting through the French Bulldog Rescue Network is a more affordable way to acquire a new puppy or adult Frenchie. The French bulldog breed is exceptional with many rare characteristics that make them popular among dog owners. But there are also some challenges and things to watch out for. French Bulldog Size Fully grown French bulldogs average 12 inches tall. Adult females often weigh between 16 and 24 pounds, and males reach 20 to 24 pounds. Most French bulldogs will continue to gain weight until about 14 months old but stop gaining height between nine and 12 months. There are also mini Frenchies, also known as teacup French bulldogs. These are bred to be miniature versions of standard French bulldogs, weighing between five and 14 pounds. They typically shed in spring and fall, so you should increase coat brushing during that time to help reduce hair in your home. This can help you save on grooming costs. French Bulldog Appearance Along with breeds like English Bulldogs and pugs, French bulldogs are a brachycephalic breed, which means they have a shortened snout. Their faces are wrinkly and scrunched, giving them a distinct look, even as puppies. French Bulldog Colors French bulldogs come in many different coat colors. These include neutral colors — such as cream, gray, tan and black — as well as more rare colors like lilac, blue and chocolate. The rarer the color, the more expensive the price of a French bulldog will be. French Bulldog Temperament These pups are affectionate and playful, making them great companions. Training is recommended for French bulldogs since they can march to the beat of their own drum without guidance. Most Frenchies respond well to training, especially when treats are involved. Trainers believe French bulldogs understand commands but are moody and will respond as they feel like it. Frenchies are great family dogs, do well around other pets and prefer companionship. A companion will also allow you to leave them alone for longer periods of time without them getting frustrated. But, of course, another pet will come with its own costs. French Bulldog Activity Level Frenchies are not the best dog if you want a jogging companion. French Bulldog Life Expectancy French bulldogs have an average lifespan of 12 years if well taken care of. If they remain in great health, they can live as long as 15 years. Your veterinarian will periodically examine your Frenchie to ensure he or she is growing properly. Due to their flat faces and short necks, it can be difficult for French bulldogs to use standard feeding bowls. You can instead provide elevated dog food and water bowls to help your pet eat and drink more comfortably. Buying treats, toys or a comfortable dog bed can also help your Frenchie feel welcome in its new home. They were bred to be smaller versions of the larger bulldog and quickly became popular companions for Parisians living in small spaces. They have bat-like ears, can have a range of colors, and boast a short, smooth coat. They tend to weigh 28 pounds or less and are easily trainable. This is something to consider before bringing one into your home. The cost of a French bulldog varies based on where you buy it, as well as other unique factors about the dog. Purchasing a French bulldog from a breeder will typically cost more than adopting one from a shelter or rescue. How much does it cost to buy a French bulldog from a breeder? How much does it cost to adopt a French bulldog from a rescue? Sometimes, adopting a dog from a shelter or rescue organization is free. Why are French bulldogs so expensive? French bulldogs have long been one of the most popular dog breeds in the country. French bulldogs are also difficult to breed. They typically require artificial insemination and C-sections upon delivery. This can increase the cost for breeders, who pass those expenses onto the consumer via high prices. Factors that affect the price of a French bulldog Many factors can make a Frenchie — or any dog, for that matter — more expensive than the next. Some colors are very common, including white, cream, and black. Rare colors, like merle, blue, brindle, and lilac, are more unique and typically fetch a higher price. Gender: Female dogs usually cost more than males since they have the ability to produce future generations — and future income if you decide to sell any of her puppies. Bloodline and genetics: If a dog has parents or grandparents who've won shows, have other accolades, or were AKC-registered, this can increase their price. Dogs with health guarantees may also cost more. Breeder: The location and quality of a breeder — as well as the animals, methods, and facilities they use — can vary widely. You can expect a highly regarded, long-time breeder with a great reputation to charge more than someone with less experience breeding French bulldogs. Sometimes their price can be double that of a Frenchie in a common color like white or black. Boarding or pet sitting If you send your pup to doggie daycare, have them boarded while traveling, or hire a pet sitter, this will add to your ongoing costs. Ongoing classes may cost more than this, though. Pet insurance — if you decide to purchase it — may offset some of these costs, as well as other medical expenses. The American Kennel Club claims that Frenchies need coat grooming only once per month. What are some common French bulldog health problems? Hemivertebrae: Hemivertebrae can cause your dog to develop triangle-shaped vertebrae that can result in pain, weakness, and paralysis. Hip dysplasia: This is when the hip joint degenerates and no longer fits properly into the socket. It can often occur in Frenchies that are over-exercised. Patellar luxation: This condition occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. It can cause walking problems and arthritis. Your Frenchie may also develop issues outside of these breed-specific problems that may also need treatment. What is the best insurance plan for your Frenchie? Some pet insurance plans cover only accidents and injuries, while others include preventative care, dental care, vaccinations, and other services. Consider your lifestyle and what activities you plan to do with your Frenchie before selecting a plan. Additional coverages may cost more. Asking for referrals from friends, family members, or colleagues who have bought Frenchies is one place to start. This can help you gauge the conditions the dog will be born into and the genetic line they come from. You can also look out for the signs of a responsible dog breeder, as outlined by the Humane Society of the United States. Is a French bulldog the right dog breed for you? French bulldogs might be right for you if you can afford the potentially high initial investment and are willing to spend time playing and socializing with your pup, as they are affectionate, playful, and active animals. The American Kennel Club says this breed is good with young children, good with other dogs, and overall very trainable. French bulldog FAQs French bulldogs are a unique and popular breed. What is the life expectancy of a French bulldog? French bulldogs have a life expectancy of nine to 12 years. This is slightly less than the average dog, which lives an average of 10 to 13 years. Do French bulldogs bark a lot? French bulldogs are not big barkers. A short daily walk should be enough for this small breed, making them a good fit for apartment and city life, where yards and large lots can be hard to find. What is the cheapest French bulldog? Purebred dogs represent only a small portion of shelter animals, so you may find yourself with a mixed Frenchie if you adopt one. What is the most expensive Frenchie? The rarest Frenchies tend to be the most expensive. How much is a French bulldog worth? Related articles. Check out our French Bulldog Puppies What is included in our prices? We provide nanny service to all major US airports for an extra fee. Shipping to other countries is also possible, contact us for more info! PayPal and Stripe have payment insurance which means that they keep your money pending until you get the puppy. We get your money just after you have confirmed that your puppy has arrived in your arms safe and sound! Shots up-to-date worth USD Our pups receive all the necessary shots while they are with us: 1. Deworming worth 50 USD Our puppies are dewormed every two weeks from the age of 4 weeks old and they also get Simparica Trio against ticks, fleas and heartworms right before they leave. Anti-parasite treatment worth USD We give our puppies anti-parasite treatment against all parasites before they leave except for heart worms. Echocardiogram heart examination, worth 1, USD We do echocardiogram on our Frenchies and when we find the slightest chance of heart murmur in one of them, we rather cancel the adoption and find a loving home for them locally. Valer, French Bulldog puppy at TomKings Puppies Membership and right to post in the TomKings Frenchie Family closed Facebook group We created a Facebook group for our adopters where we answer their questions and they share their experiences with each other. We are a Family because we are connected by the love towards Frenchies and we are always there to help and support each other, as well as share valuable experiences and advice! Only TomKings Frenchie parents are allowed to post and ask from us or any other member in the group. Participation in TomKings Frenchie Meetups We organize Frenchie Meetups in major cities throughout the States where you can talk with other TomKings Frenchie owners and exchange advice while your Frenchies are playing with each other. Frenchie Love eBook worth .Lifetime Health Guarantee We give you a lifetime health guarantee on all genetic disorders which cause death, which means that we send you another puppy if your Frenchie dies. We have never had that so far since the parent dogs go through a rigorous selection process before the breeding program and our vet checks the puppies often. We know that Frenchie owners have a bunch of questions about feeding, raising, training, etc. Our goal is to have only happy and healthy puppies so we will always be there to answer your questions! Lifetime vet assistance Frenchie owners have a lot of questions about the health of their puppies and most of the time they run to their vet right away and leave a fortune there for nothing. We even tell you whether you need to visit your vet at all! Health certification TomKings Frenchies are examined strictly before they leave for their new homes and we give you a health certificate which can be used if you want to have insurance for your puppy which we highly recommend. Exceptional care We treat every puppy as a family member from the moment they are born. We believe that the secret of having socialized and healthy Frenchie puppies is spending time with them all day long and letting them run and play in the backyard. Potty training It is crucial how puppies are trained at the beginning of their lives. At TomKings Puppies we are focusing not only on their health but their proper training as well. We start potty training for them so that you have a much easier job! Ultimate Guide. Depending on where you live sorry California, it is expensive where you are! This could indicate the dog is coming from a puppy mill. You can read why you should avoid buying dogs from puppy mills here. But the popularity of the dog means there can be a lot of competition for the Frenchies that do need a home. There are a lot of factors that can influence price, and if you are looking for a show dog or a dog for breeding, you should expect to pay a lot more. Certain colors, which are desirable but genetically quite rare, can also push up the price. A brindle or black puppy will usually be at the lower end of the scale, but a breeder might ask a lot more for a platinum or blue fawn puppy. This is Micro, a perfect body specimen for a Frenchie. He also has a blue coat and orange eyes, which are quite rare in dogs. What About Mini Frenchies? Mini Frenchies, also known as Teacup Frenchies, are the same fantastic dog, but they are quite a bit smaller than usual. You can expect them to weigh just 5 to 14 pounds on average. Due to their smaller size, though, their bodies can be fragile, so it is important not to engage in rough play with them. These dogs are even harder to breed see below than standard French bulldogs, so they are also quite a bit more expensive. Why are they so expensive, then? One factor is high demand since they are a very desirable dog breed. But that is not the whole story, since Labs are also one of the most popular dog breeds. Health Problems One of the biggest factors is these dogs have a lot of health problems. Most of their health issues are related to their flat, brachycephalic faces similar to Pugs and American bulldogs , which makes them particularly prone to breathing issues and allergies. This unique facial structure can also affect the formation of their jaw, and the health of their eyes, and can even affect their healing from certain illnesses and injuries. On top of this, they can also be prone to hip dysplasia, kneecap shifts, and heat stress. Fortunately, breeders try to control these breed-specific issues. It is essential that responsible breeders do their best to control these conditions, which means DNA scanning, genetic testing, multiple trips to the vet, and paying extra close attention to the developing puppies. Of course, all of this comes with a cost. Breeding Problems The other big problem is that Frenchies are extremely hard to breed. As well as the operation itself is expensive, the mother and pups need extra care afterward. Plus, breeders need to give their mother dogs significantly longer to recuperate before they can think about breeding them again. On top of that, French bulldogs have small litters—usually just three puppies. It is very unusual for a Frenchie to have five or more puppies in a single litter. So, if you are looking for a French bulldog puppy, you can expect to be on a waiting list for several months before a puppy is available. As well as being expensive to buy, French bulldogs can be pretty costly to care for, again mostly because of their health problems. They will probably need regular trips to the vet, and insuring them can be expensive because they are known to have health issues. But what are some of the main costs that you can expect to incur when bringing home a new puppy? Supplies It can surprise pet parents just how many things you need to care for a new dog. For starters, your new pup will need a bed, toys, bowls, a collar, and a leash. A crate can also be a big expense if you choose to crate train. However, because crate training is not so common among French bulldogs, first-time owners might also want to consider some professional training classes. Food Food is one of the biggest neverending expenses for any dog. Puppy food is also a bit more expensive than adult food because of its high protein content. Ideally, your dog should be eating puppy food until they are about 9 months old. French bulldogs should be eating around 25 to 30 calories per pound of their body weight each day. You can read more about pet insurance for puppies here. They will usually only bark when there is something wrong, so it is worth paying attention when they do vocalize. This is one of the reasons why they make excellent apartment dogs. While French bulldogs are adorable, they are specifically bred for their appearance, and this has led to a lot of genetic issues that affect their health and can leave them in a lot of pain in their later years. Many people object to putting the health of an animal second to appearance and therefore object to buying French bulldogs and supporting the purebred breeding industry. In theory, if there was no demand for these dogs, this kind of exploitative breeding would stop. In practice, this is difficult to imagine, considering how popular the breed is. Can French bulldogs stay home alone? French bulldogs actually tolerate being left alone relatively well. However, all dogs need a lot of love and companionship, and no dog responds well to being left on their own for 10 hours a day five days a week. Dogs become members of the family, and if they are going to thrive, they need to be treated with that kind of attention. Are Frenchies hard to potty train? However, they are little dogs with small bladders. They also tend to gobble down their food, which means they can be prone to smelly gas expulsions. How much exercise does my Frenchie need? French bulldogs do well on just a 15 to minute vigorous walk each day. They are also quite playful, so they burn off energy just playing around as well. Are French bulldogs aggressive? Despite the reputation of bulldogs, Frenchies are not aggressive. They are friendly and get on well with people and other animals. However, all animals are a combination of nature and nurture, so they can learn aggressive habits if they are not properly cared for. Are Frenchies high maintenance? They can also be left alone without expecting too much trouble. On the other hand, their tendency towards breed-specific health issues does mean they need regular visits to the vet. They may need special medications for things like breathing issues, and in later life, they may need things like a special bed. The Verdict French bulldogs are excellent dogs. They are great little companions who will find it easy to live in your apartment with you, but they are also fun-loving and curious. While they are great dogs, they are also quite expensive. This is due to high demand and some pretty serious difficulties when it comes to breeding them. They have small litters, almost always delivered by c-section, and health screenings and vet visits are a big burden for breeders. If you want something special, such as a rare color, you should expect to pay a lot more. You can also expect them to be relatively expensive dogs to own because they do need regular and close contact with a good vet to maintain their health. At a glance, the French bulldog is: Highly intelligent and trainable Small, meaning it does well in fairly small apartments Expensive due to demand and how difficult they are to breed Prone to breed-specific health issues So, are they worth all this expense and trouble? We think they are. French bulldogs can be the ideal pet for first-time owners with limited space and time but a lot of love to give. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.
Can Poodles Have Blue Eyes? The short answer to this question is yes. Poodles can have blue eyes. The long answer is much more controversial. Blue is not a typical eye color for purebred Poodles. There is much debate about whether a purebred Poodle can ever have blue eyes or whether this is the result of crossbreeding at some point in the lineage. The truth is the science of canine genetics is still very young, and there is a lot left to learn about how and why genes interact to produce a color variation. This is what we will discuss in the rest of this article. As you will notice, one viewer asserts that the dog is not really a Poodle. Yet the puppy looks like a Poodle in every other way. Genetic testing might help identify where those rare blue eyes come from. One question worth asking when you see a Poodle that appears to have blue eyes is whether the eye color is truly blue. The pupil of the canine eye is normally black. As Dog Coat Colour Genetics points out, the most common iris eye color for the modern companion canine is brown. When that basic brown gets diluted by interactions with other genes, it turns into amber. The amber color spectrum can range from yellow to light brown, copper, yellow-green, or even grey. In most cases, a dog with amber eyes will have a liver, isabella, or blue coat color. Occasionally, a black-coated dog may also have amber eyes. Genetic testing can also help in this area. According to the official breed standard filed with the American Kennel Club AKC , the purebred Poodle should have the following coloration. Skin The skin should be a solid and even color. Coat The coat color should match the skin color in the shade, even if in varying degrees throughout the coat. Nose Poodles with cafe au lait or brown coats should have liver noses. Poodles with black, white, blue, cream, gray, and silver Poodles should have black noses. Eyes Poodles with cafe au lait or brown coats should have dark amber eyes. Poodles with black, white, blue, cream, gray, and silver Poodles should have very dark eyes the color is not specified beyond this. The breed standard is very specific and darker eyes are very preferable for dog show purposes. This makes it abundantly clear that the purebred Poodle does not typically have blue eyes in whole or in part. Faults in the Poodle Breed Standard If the breed standard clearly states that Poodles should not have blue eyes, how are blue eyes in a Poodle treated in terms of that same standard? The breed standard actually does not address blue eye color directly at all. The breed standard does state that particolored dogs dogs with more than two coat colors present and dogs with very light color eyes are considered at a major fault. But the breed standard does not directly state that Poodles with blue eyes are to be disqualified. According to Dog Coat Colour Genetics , there are four possible ways a dog could end up with blue eyes. Three out of the four ways relate to some level of pigmentation issue. The other way is if the dog inherits a very rare gene that codes only for blue eyes. Poodles are not known to carry this gene — it is mainly seen in Siberian Huskies and Border Collies. The other three ways a dog can wind up with blue eyes can be traced back to pigment issues. Albinism Albinism is a very, very rare condition in modern dogs — so rare that there may not even be any fully albino dogs. As PetMD explains, dogs can be partially albino when they inherit genes that produce certain coat patterns like piebald and merle. White irises When a dog is born with white irises, this may indicate a lack of pigment production in the eye area that could cause the eyes to appear blue. Here again, Poodles are not known to be prone to this type of specific absence of pigmentation. Merle genetics As mentioned earlier, the merle color pattern gene is linked to blue eyes in dogs. Merle produces a pigment dilution in a random pattern. This random pattern affects not only the coat but also the skin and eyes. Sometimes the merle gene can produce a condition known as heterochromia, where the dog has two differently-colored eyes, such as one brown eye and one blue eye. A heavy dilution is more likely to produce blue eyes in one or both eyes. Poodles can be born with the merle gene. Here again, there is more than a little confusion amongst breeders regarding what to call different types of merle color patterns. As Paris Poodles breeder explains, merle is not a color at all. It is a pattern caused by pigment dilution specific to eumelanin, the pigment that produces the black color spectrum. Similarly, sometimes breeders call a brown merle Poodle a red merle Poodle or vice versa. Is the Merle Gene Dangerous for Poodles? Any time the merle gene shows up in a dog, there is concern about the health of the breed lineage as well as the health of that individual dog. But this concern is not always warranted. The merle gene is known to be dangerous when a puppy inherits a copy from each parent dog. As well there is still much to learn about the merle gene itself. As of the time of publication, there have been no confirmed cases of albinism in purebred Poodles. Similarly, Poodles are not known to carry the separate gene that can encode blue eyes. And Poodles are not known to have eyes with excessively white irises. This makes merle the most likely culprit when a Poodle ends up with full or partially blue eyes. In this case, both eyes could be blue, or the Poodle could have one blue eye or just a portion of one or both eyes that are blue. Working with a reputable, health-focused Poodle breeder is the best way to ensure your puppy does not inherit two merle double merle genes with the risks that entail. If your Poodle has blue eyes and you are worried, your veterinarian can do a health check to ease your mind. I am passionate about all things related to fluffy dogs and love sharing my knowledge with others. I first discovered my passion for fluffy dogs when I adopted a Shih Tzu over 10 years ago, and I have been an avid fan ever since. Post navigation. Can poodles have blue eyes? Yes, Poodles can have blue eyes. Blue eyes in adult poodles can be the result of genetics or a sign of an eye-health issue. But in the poodle breed, blue eyes should definitely make you ask questions. Knowing all you can about how a poodle came to have this uncommon characteristic can alert you to the potential for serious issues that any pet owner would want to know. These desirable features of the breed have made poodles a central breed in the recent move to develop designer dog breeds. One downside of their popularity is that poodles are a favorite of amateur or backyard breeders and less-than-reputable breeding operations. Another downside — due mainly to the increase in designer breeds — is that there is more confusion around what characteristics to look for in the poodle breed. But even if you just want a lovable family pet, blue eyes in a poodle can be a sign of certain issues that you should be aware of before you take a dog home from a shelter or breeder. What can cause blue eyes in an adult poodle? Puppies of every breed can be born with blue, green, or yellow eyes. Normally the pigmentation darkens as the dog ages. It produces beautiful markings in any dog, but it is not a natural pattern in the poodle bloodline. In order to get a poodle with the physical features associated with the merle gene, it has to be introduced from outside the breed. While this is a deal-breaker for anyone who wants a registered pureblood poodle for a pet, it might be a non-issue or even an attractive feature for those who just want a beautiful family pet. But before you buy a blue-eyed or merle-coated poodle, consider some of the potential downsides. Deafness and blindness are more common in puppies with the merle gene. Still, a puppy from a litter with one merle parent is probably a safe enough choice for a family pet. Double merle litters have an alarmingly high instance of deafness and blindness—some puppies are born without eyes or ears or with other physical deformities. No responsible owner or breeder would allow this to happen. Check out this article I wrote on merle poodles. In it, you can learn about their very unique color patterns, health concerns, and cost involved to purchase these wonderfully distinctive dogs. Heterochromia in Poodles The literal translation is multiple colors. This condition can occur in people, horses, cats, and dogs. In dogs, it can be due to the merle gene or other breed-specific genes. While this or other recessive genetic properties can lead to blue eyes in a poodle, it is uncommon. What if your adult poodle with dark eyes experiences a sudden pigment change in one or both eyes? If this happens, you should definitely be concerned. It is typically a symptom of eye disease. The two most common are cataracts and glaucoma. For coat colors, you can expect to see poodles that are: Black. Supplements What do you need to know about Poodles with blue eyes? Blue eyes are extremely pretty on a dog like a husky. Huskies with heterochromia are coveted! Here are a few things you need to know when faced with a blue-eyed Poodle. Signs of Issues Poodles are a breed that is extremely popular with breeders of all kinds, illicit and otherwise. Illegal breeders use a lot of underhand techniques to breed the puppies. Blue eyes are the clue to such kinds of breeding. A poodle with blue eyes probably has some issues, like eye disease, that is making their eyes that color. So, when picking up your puppy, take a look into its eyes! They are only an issue if the blue eyes are not a family trait one has had from birth. The Merle Gene The merle gene is responsible for our beautifully marked pets. The problems associated with the gene, however, might just be. The gene is commonly associated with deafness, blindness, and physical deformities. Blue eyes and a pretty coat are the first indicators of such a gene. Looking into the bloodline is the best way to understand what kind of issues your pup might have! The industry standard for such breeds involves having dark eyes — black and dark brown are the norm. What does it mean if a Poodle has blue eyes? So, what does it finally mean for a Poodle to have blue eyes? Well, this depends on their bloodline, breeder, and breeding circumstances. Here are three points you can definitively state when a Poodle has blue eyes. It is not the norm There is an industry-standard for any dog breed. Poodles, especially being designer breeds, are extremely regulated for competitions. There are rules about the coloring of the dog that needs to be adhered to before they can start competing. Blue eyes do not fit this norm. Even if the dog is completely okay and the blue eyes and a family trait, chances are it will not be allowed to participate because of the deviation from the norm. The industry states that Poodles with blue eyes are uncommon and, therefore, not a part of the competition. The eyes can seem much lighter or darker depending on the color of the fur. Health Issues Most importantly, blue eyes can be a sign of health issues in Poodles. This is especially true if the eyes of the dog turn blue when they are older! It can be a sign of eye disease or something equally as bad that shows the pup needs medical attention. Blue-eyed pups can be those with a merle gene and still require medical attention. They have higher chances of being born deaf, blind, or with deformities. It all depends on the breeder and breeding situation! What are the risks involved with Poodles with Blue Eyes? If you have a pup with blue eyes with you, what are some of the health issues that come along with it? Here are some of the risks involved with owning a Poodle with blue eyes! This can be because of the merle gene causing blindness in the pup. If your industry-standard dog with dark eyes suddenly develops heterochromia, it is definitely a sign of a deeper issue. Be on the lookout for cataracts or glaucoma, both of which are quite common and lead to worse! Breeding Breeding becomes a big issue for pups with blue eyes. Merle genetics cause the pretty patterns we love so much in our pups. Merle genetics need to be introduced into the breed from an outside source. They often produce gorgeous puppies but come with the risk of deafness and blindness. These double-merle litters have extremely high instances of deafness, blindness, and physical deformities. What does Heterochromia in Poodles indicate? We all love a dog with some rare features, and heterochromia is one of them. Although it is rare, there is always a chance it could occur. What is Heterochromia? Before we get into the details of heterochromia , it is important to know what the condition is. The condition makes it so that the two eyes are differently colored. The most well-known example is the huskies. There are several different reasons a Poodle can have or develop heterochromia, including inflammation, medication, and brain tumors. When is Heterochromia dangerous? The best way to tell when heterochromia is dangerous is when it develops later on, especially in older dogs. Heterochromia can be a sign of inflammation, issues with the medication your dog is on, illness, or even a brain tumor! While issues like brain tumors can exhibit other signs as well, heterochromia can be one of the first most visible signs. Some of the most common problems that come with a change in eye color include: Cataracts.
Available: Now Hey everyone! Chance was an owner surrender to the animal shelter and was in rough shape. Along with a really nasty skin condition, he was emaciated, had an upper respiratory infection, UTI, GI worms, and heart worms. It was clearly evident he had been neglected and abused. He got treated and well fed with a heaping side of love and care so he could be ready to meet his new family. Even though he had a rough patch, he still loves and want to be loved. He is a true velcro Boxer and want to be with you and cuddle. If he can't cuddle, he will be at your side, waiting for your attention and to look into your soul with those big, chocolate eyes. He wants to do whatever you do and be where you are. He is such a joy to be with. He had a good life before his previous owner, so he was already neutered and knew manners and commands. He is very smart and love treats, so I he picks new things up fast. He is house broken and know to stop something if mom says "uh-uh no" or "leave it" in her firm voice. He doesn'tt chew anything and doesn't counter surf. He only barks at delivery people. Chance can share his people, toys, and his bed, but please let him have his food to himself - he didn't always have food and worries. Chance knows the up and down commands, though he won't get on furniture unless you tell me it is okay each time. He also know sit, stay, come, and shake. Chance walk easy on a leash and loves his walks. He corrects easy with voice commands and gentle pressure on the leash. Sometimes, something fun to chase goes by and he wants to get it. He uses a harness and that helps him learn not to do that. He is already much better at it, except with cats and rabbits - those are too exciting. Some of his favorites include car rides, walks, being outdoors, toys, and cuddling. Part of his past was being crated all day, every day without bathroom breaks, enough food, or play time. So please let him play often, with lots of exercise. Also, Chance can not ever be crated at home, the vet or boarding except in emergencies and with medication. Crating triggers panic attacks for him specifically because of his past. The good thing is, he is such a good boy free roam, you don't need to crate him! Chance very much likes dogs and wants to play, but his foster Boxer brother is really old and can't play. He plays with his people and neighbor dogs. Chance does a good job, but can miss some doggie signals and will need help learning all of them for playtime. He acts like a big puppy, so he could knock down or step on little children with his zoomies. He does love all the rubs, pets, hugs, cuddles, ear smooshing, kisses, and scratches you can dish out. He also is happy to be lifted for a bath, car ride, or vet exam, though. We know some of the abuse in Chance's past was done by a man. He is scared of some men - not all men, but certain actions done by men trigger memories. He is not scared of the women and kids he has met. It took Chance a few days to trust him, but I love my foster dad now. He now trusts that his foster family will only let safe people in the house and will steer wide of men on walks doing any of those scary things like swinging a tool or carrying a load overhead. Chance now enjoys walks and visitors to his house. Interested in me? If so, fill out an application and mention Chance. If you are already approved, just email the adoption coordinator and ask to be added to my list. Please consider a donation to help with Chance's medical care. Questions about Boxer puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? We have answers. How much are Boxer puppies for sale in Atlanta GA? Things that will make a difference to the price are the experience and location of the Atlanta Boxer breeders, as well as the markings and coat color of individual pups, as well as their pedigree. Can I just choose puppies from Boxer breeders in Atlanta? Definitely not! You can easily arrange to pick your new bundle of fluff up at any major airport. How do you screen breeders of Boxer puppies in Atlanta? At Uptown Puppies we have a rigorous vetting process that we use to make sure we only work with the cream of the crop when it comes to businesses with Boxer puppies for sale Atlanta. Once accepted, every partner in our network also needs to sign our binding Breeder Pledge. Is Uptown Puppies different to other networks with Atlanta Boxers for sale? We definitely are! Rather than being led by marketing dollars, we concentrate solely on the reputation and experience of individual businesses. What is a puppy mill? Sadly, puppy mills place more importance on profit than animal welfare. Tragically, pups born in mills are far more likely to suffer from illnesses and behavioral issues than pups from reputable breeders. Can I buy a Boxer for sale in Atlanta right now? Connect with the recommended businesses and companies within the Uptown network and prepare to be dazzled by the seriously cute puppies that are just waiting for their new homes! Where are Boxer dogs from originally? While the history of the Boxer can be traced back to B. C the breed we know and love today came into being in 19th Century Germany. These charismatic, intelligent, and fearless dogs soon became prized for their abilities as working dogs - which of course includes guarding. They have been a well-loved breed ever since. What will the average Boxer be like? Boxers love fooling around with their families although they can switch into guard dog mode in a moment if they feel you need protection. Are Boxers good family dogs? An Atlanta Boxer for sale will make a wonderful family dog. Their loyalty makes them a wonderful choice for watching over children and adults alike. This, combined with their fun-loving nature and high-energy personalities makes them the perfect choice for active families looking for an all-round companion for every adventure. Are Boxers easy to train? Training a Boxer for sale Atlanta can be a joy thanks to their eagerness to please combined with their intelligence.
Acne Skin allergies most often present when a Frenchie is years old. These dogs also often have more than one allergy, which can make it that much harder to diagnose and treat. Fortunately, there are several treatment options available. However, these are often lifelong and can add up in cost over the years. Ear Infections 1. Allergies, which often cause ear infections in dogs 2. The shape of their ear canals French Bulldogs have narrower-than-normal ear canals, making it harder for debris and moisture to make their way out of the ear canal once it gets in. This makes it easier for infections to develop. Ear infections can easily be treated, but chronic ear infections in dogs can also change the skin that lines the ear canals. This further narrows the canal and leads to even more ear infections. Frenchies come with a slew of medical problems that can cost a lot of money to manage. You need to be financially prepared to handle any health issues that develop, and purchasing pet insurance is highly recommended. Birthing Issues French Bulldogs are rarely able to give birth naturally and almost always need a cesarian section C-section. The reason? Again, it comes down to their breeding. Frenchies have been bred to have notoriously large heads but very narrow hips. This causes the puppies to get stuck in the birth canal, which puts both the mom and puppies at risk of death. Back Injuries French Bulldog puppies can be born with a spinal deformity known as hemivertebra , or an incomplete vertebra spinal bone. While this deformity does not always cause issues, it can result in compression of the spinal cord, which can cause weakness in the hind legs, as well as fecal and urinary incontinence. If compression of the spinal cord does occur, advanced imaging techniques such as myelography, CT scans, or MRIs are usually required to diagnose it. Mild cases of spinal cord compression can often be treated medically but severe cases may require surgery. Because of their narrower trachea and congenital airway abnormalities, it can be much more difficult to insert an endotracheal tube, which is needed to help dogs breathe under anesthesia. When recovering from anesthesia, if their endotracheal tube is removed too soon, they may not be awake enough to compensate for their airway issues when breathing. This can cause respiratory distress and the need to be re-intubated. Frenchies are also more susceptible to inflammation of their already small airway after anesthesia, which, again, puts them at higher risk for respiratory distress. Frenchies are also predisposed to several stomach issues, which puts them at increased risk for vomiting and regurgitating, either after their pre-medication is given prior to anesthesia to help them relax or while under anesthesia. This then increases their risk of developing aspiration pneumonia after anesthesia. Because of these risks and issues, veterinarians typically take extra precautions with this breed to help mitigate risk. Cataracts Cataracts are a hardening of the eye lens, causing it to be opaque cloudy rather than clear. As cataracts progress, they eventually lead to blindness. French Bulldogs are genetically predisposed to cataracts, and the only treatment is surgery. Corneal Dystrophy and Corneal Ulcers Corneal dystrophy is another French Bulldog health issue that causes the cornea the outer surface of the eye to become opaque cloudy. However, as it progresses, it does make dogs more susceptible to corneal ulcers scratches on the surface of the eye , which are painful and require medical treatment. Ocular Dermoids Dermoids are a growth of skin in an abnormal place. French Bulldogs are predisposed to having dermoids in their eyes. This is a congenital condition typically present at birth. Distichiasis Distichiasis is an abnormal growth of eyelashes in dogs. Instead of growing out of their normal hair follicles along the eyelid, they can grow out of the glands along the edge of the eyelid. This causes the eyelashes to rub on the eye, which can lead to discomfort, inflammation, and corneal ulcers. This can be corrected with surgery. When the eyelid rolls inward, the hairs on the eyelid may touch the eye. This can cause irritation, increased tearing , conjunctivitis , and corneal ulcers. Surgery can correct the issue. Tear Stains Dogs and cats have a duct that runs from the inner corner of the eye down through the nose. This duct is typically where most tears from the eye are drained. This causes their tears to run down their face, causing brown or rust-colored tear staining. Retinal Dysplasia Retinal dysplasia is an inherited trait in dogs that causes abnormal formation of the retina the part of the eye that sends images to the brain. Unfortunately, there is no treatment for this disorder. Cherry Eye Dogs and cats both have a third eyelid in the inner corner of the eye. Cherry eye occurs when the tear gland attached to this third eyelid prolapses flips outward. This often appears as a pink or reddish round mass at the inner corner of the eye. Frenchies are genetically predisposed to this disease. Surgery is needed to correct this. Chronic Diarrhea French Bulldogs are predisposed to a number of gastrointestinal issues. One of the most common is food allergies, which can cause off-and-on diarrhea or soft stools. Frenchies are also genetically predisposed to inflammatory bowel disease IBD , which causes chronic inflammation of the intestinal tract, leading to chronic diarrhea. Treatment for both allergies and IBD is lifelong, and often requires special prescription diets and medication. Hiatal Hernia Another commonly inherited health issue in French Bulldogs is a hiatal hernia. Regurgitation most commonly occurs after eating and is a passive process where food slides back up the throat. This is different from vomiting, an active process that involves contraction of the stomach. Surgery can be performed to fix the diaphragm so the stomach can no longer slide through it. Pyloric Stenosis French Bulldog puppies can also be born with an abnormality known as pyloric stenosis. The pylorus is a valve-like structure that allows food to pass from the stomach to the intestines. Brachycephalic dogs such as French Bulldogs are genetically predisposed to a thickening of this structure, resulting in narrowing of the opening that passes food into the intestines. Common symptoms include regurgitation, decreased appetite , weight loss, and dehydration. Hip Dysplasia Hip dysplasia is a commonly inherited joint issue in French Bulldogs that results in a loose hip joint. This typically leads to arthritis and degenerative joint disease, which causes chronic pain. Medical management with pain medications, joint supplements , and physical therapy can be used to help with symptoms. Dogs with severe cases may need surgery. Always ask your breeder for all health information on your Frenchie puppy and their parents. Luxating Patella Luxating patella occurs when the kneecap slips out of place. You might see your pet with luxating patella suddenly limp for a few steps while running. They may kick out their leg a few times, then continue running like nothing happened. In mild cases, this condition can cause arthritis. Severe cases may need surgery to correct it. Dental Disease Dental disease is the most common chronic disease in dogs and cats. Frenchies and other brachycephalic breeds are even more predisposed. Overcrowding makes tartar build up faster. Frenchies also usually have an underbite, which further causes tartar buildup. As the tartar builds up on the teeth, it gets under the gumline, leading to gingivitis and deterioration of the gums and surrounding bone. Bladder or Kidney Stones Intact adult male French Bulldogs are predisposed to bladder and kidney stones made of a crystal called cystine. The cause for this is suspected to be genetic, but the gene has not yet been identified. Bladder and kidney stones can be incredibly uncomfortable. Fortunately, they can often be dissolved with a prescription diet that adjusts the acidity of the urine to help dissolve the stone. Pulmonic Stenosis Pulmonic stenosis is a congenital heart disease in which the pulmonary valve and artery the valve and artery that lead from the heart to the lungs are narrowed. This makes it harder for the heart to pump blood to the lungs to pick up oxygen, and in severe cases can lead to congestive heart failure. While not all cases require treatment, those that do will need a relatively high-risk procedure to widen the pulmonary artery and valve. Because this is an inherited trait, a good French Bulldog breeder will have a cardiologist assess their dogs prior to breeding. But if you are going to get one, you need to be prepared. Budget for Medical Care Frenchies come with a slew of medical problems that can cost a lot of money to manage. Find a Reputable Breeder Because French Bulldogs are purebred dogs, most people find them through breeders. This is a number given by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals once the pet has had the recommended testing for breed-specific issues. You also can use this number to check the results of the tests through the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals website. The breeder should ask you a lot of questions as well. This means they care about making sure their dogs go to the right home and that the breed is a good fit for you. They will want to meet you, whether in-person or via a video call. The breeder will let you look at their facilities and be proud of their setup. The mother should be on site with the puppies. You may have to wait. A good breeder will give you veterinary records for your puppy. Brittany Grenus graduated from Tufts Cummings School of Veterinary Medicine in with her doctorate in veterinary medicine and a.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? As with any breed, French bulldogs are predisposed to getting certain diseases. For example, many German shepherds are more likely to have hip problems. Cocker spaniels are more likely to get ear infections. Dachshunds are known for developing back problems such as intervertebral disc disease IVDD. French bulldogs have grown immensely in popularity over the last few years and are quickly becoming known for also developing intervertebral disc disease. In fact, some weeks I see more French bulldogs than I do dachshunds. Since IVDD is so common in French bulldogs, it can come on suddenly and can cause permanent inability to use the legs. Just like in people, the neck and back are made up of multiple bones lined up in a row. These bones are called vertebrae. The vertebrae surround and protect the spinal cord, which transmits information from the brain to the legs and from the legs back to the brain. In between each pair of vertebrae is an intervertebral disc that is shaped like a jelly donut. The disc has an inner jelly part and an outer donut part. Intervertebral discs act as spacers and cushions between the bones of the neck and back. In certain breeds, including the French bulldog, the jelly inside part of the disc can come out of the donut at high speed. When this happens, it hits the spinal cord, causing bruising and swelling. Additionally, it compresses the spinal cord. Symptoms of IVDD depend on where the disc problem is neck versus back and how severe the spinal cord injury is. Walking wobbly or drunk in all four legs. Sometimes French bulldogs may drag the toenails or occasionally stumble and fall in the limbs. Unable to walk in all four legs. Symptoms of a slipped disc in the back may include from mildest to more severe : Back pain, tense belly, not wanting to eat, crying when picked up and reluctance to jump. Walking wobbly or drunk in the rear limbs. They may scuff the toes or criss-cross the limbs. Unable to walk in the rear limbs, dragging of the rear limbs. While IVDD is the most common cause of spinal injury in dogs, there are other diseases that can look very similar. French bulldogs can develop spinal tumors, meningitis, infections, malformations and others. Additionally, French bulldogs tend to get worse faster than other breeds and are more likely to develop a life-threatening complication called myelomalacia explained below. For those reasons, we tend to recommend testing a little more proactively than we do in other breeds. An experienced neurologist can examine your pet, determine where the problem is, what the severity is, list the most likely cause and recommend the best course of action. Radiographs X-rays alone cannot diagnose IVDD, although it is useful in looking for other causes such as bony tumors, broken bones or bone infections. Myelography is an older test that is not recommended since it is more invasive and complications can arise. In general, there are two ways to treat IVDD. Crate Rest and Medication The first treatment option is crate rest and medications anti-inflammatory medications, pain medications, muscle relaxants, etc. This is appropriate for dogs with mild signs pain only or mild wobbliness when they walk. Crate rest involves being confined to a small crate approximately 3 x 4 feet for the average-sized French bulldog. Time outside of the crate should be limited to short walks on a leash and harness for minutes. Surgery The second treatment option is surgery. This is appropriate for dogs that are more severely affected difficulty walking, unable to walk , dogs with severe pain, dogs where the symptoms are getting worse despite rest and medications, or dog where the symptoms improve but come back later. There are a handful of factors that determine the likelihood of success. Diagnosis The first factor is getting a diagnosis. Since many other diseases can look like IVDD, confirming a diagnosis as opposed to just suspecting based on symptoms and X-rays is the most important step in success. Severity of Symptoms The second factor is the severity of symptoms. Dogs that have mild symptoms pain only, walking but wobbly have a higher success rate than dogs that have more severe symptoms inability to feel the limbs. Treatment Option The third factor is which treatment option is selected. However, some dogs that are severely affected unable to move or unable to feel may still have some residual weakness or incoordination. The main disadvantages are the need for anesthesia and the costs associated with MRI and surgery. Unfortunately, dogs that slip one disc are at risk for slipping another one at some point in their life. At Southeast Veterinary Neurology, we perform a preventative procedure on all French bulldogs that elect surgery for their disc herniation. What is Myelomalacia? Myelomalacia is a life-threating complication of IVDD. It occurs in dogs that are unable to move and feel the rear limbs. In some dogs, when the slipped disc injures the spinal cord, it can cause a chain reaction of progressive damage to the spinal cord that creeps down the spinal cord to the tail and up the spinal cord toward the front legs. As it creeps forward, the front legs become weak and then it becomes difficult for the dog to breathe. These symptoms can happen anywhere within the first week of losing feeling in the rear limbs. French bulldogs are much more likely to develop myelomalacia than other breeds. French bulldogs are incredibly popular and are truly part of the family. Since this disease is so common and is so devastating, we want to inform as many people as possible. Southeast Veterinary Neurology employs six board-certified neurologists and a team of experts that only treat neurological conditions.
Share 0 Shares Golden Retrievers are a great family dog for anyone with an active lifestyle. These dogs love to run, play, and swim. However, their energy levels are manageable for the average person who likes to go out and enjoy the great outdoors. Families getting a Golden Retriever will also need to decide if they are going to get a male or a female , and they may also need to decide what size of Golden Retriever they want as well. When getting a Golden Retriever puppy from a breeder it is always important to do your research to make sure that they are both ethical and reputable. This will set you up to get a healthy Golden Retriever that also has an excellent temperament that the breed is famous for. Syrah Goldens Syrah Goldens in Georgia This Golden Retriever breeder is incredibly dedicated to breeding healthy and beautiful European-style Goldens that have great temperaments. This breeder also ensures that all of their dogs have passed the necessary health testing for hips, heart, eye, and elbow problems before breeding them. Of course, this breeder also follows the recommended protocols for vaccinations, vet appointments, and deworming for puppies. Additionally, every puppy from Syrah Goldens is sold with a health guarantee. The breeder behind Syrah Goldens proves their lines by being active in the dog show world, and they enter their dogs into UCI shows. In order to ensure that all of their dogs are well-loved and cared for, they have all of their adult breeding dogs living in foster homes. This way they are kept from kennel life and are given plenty of attention. Those who purchase a puppy from Syrah Goldens are provided a lifetime of support from these breeders. This means that they will take back any of their dogs if they need to be rehomed. This breeder also has a puppy training program that can be provided to new puppy owners for an extra fee. Name of Owner. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Georgia Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Georgia? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Georgia? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.
Golden Retriever Puppy Price Golden Retrievers are the third most popular dog breed in the United States so it is no surprise that these puppies can be a bit expensive. Because price is not always a guarantee of the quality of the breeder, do your own investigation before you choose to purchase a puppy. Ask the breeder if you can visit, meet the parents of your puppy, meet your puppy, and ask for veterinarian signed medical forms. Any reputable breeder will have no problem with any of these requests. They will also guarantee that you can bring your puppy back if you run into any unforeseen medical or behavioral problems. Golden Retriever Dog Price Adopting an older Golden Retriever is a perfect option if you want to skip the chaos of learning to raise a puppy. This breed is in high demand though so you may run into trouble trying to find one of these pups at a local shelter or humane society. If you are willing to sacrifice your desire for a purebred Golden Retriever, you can often find many breeds that have been mixed with Goldens in shelters or humane societies. You are much more likely to find a mixed breed in a shelter than a purebred Golden Retriever. If you are looking for a relaxed and loving dog to snuggle with and enjoy a couch potato lifestyle then a senior Golden would be a great option for you. These dogs are just as loveable as any other Golden Retriever and will be thankful for the opportunity to get out of a shelter and into a home. Golden Retriever Service Dog Price Golden Retrievers are a common choice for service dogs because of their dependable nature and willingness to learn. This breed is used for guide-dog work or for individuals who are deaf. These beautiful dogs can also be great therapy dogs because of their affectionate nature. This hefty price is a result of the rigorous training that these dogs need to go through to perform their job and the high quality care that they receive. Unfortunately there is less of a demand for older dogs because they do not live as long as young puppies. Although you may not get to spend the same amount of time with an older Golden Retriever, they will surely fill all their years with you with lots of love and affection. Adopting an older dog is an ideal option for people who do not have the time or energy to raise a puppy and housebreak them. Coat Colors Despite their name Golden Retrievers can come in other colors and sizes beyond gold. These dogs can be various shades of gold, red, cream, or even black. Breeders capitalize on the rarity of the cream and black colored Golden Retrievers, so they often charge a premium price for these pups. Remember though if you plan on showing your Golden Retriever in competitions they must be golden to meet the breed standard. Gender You can expect that male and female Golden Retrievers cost about the same. Females have a slightly different personality that is more desirable to some individuals. They tend to be calmer and more independent as opposed to their energetic and affectionate male counterparts. Most people choose male or female based on their personality rather than price. Lineage and Bloodlines Show dogs that have been successful or that have even been champions are often bred together to produce beautiful show quality puppies. Remember there is no guarantee these dogs will be healthier than regular pups. Certification and Warranties Puppies that have certifications, warranties, or guarantees will cost much more than those without. Generally a pedigree dog with certification will cost double the price of one without certification. Most people assume that if a breeder has multiple certifications then they are reputable. However just remember even a breeder with outstanding certifications could be less than desirable, so make sure to properly research every breeder that you are considering. Location The location of where you buy a Golden Retriever will impact the price you pay. Highly populated areas such as cities will charge much higher prices than rural breeders or shelters. In addition different cities and states have different breeding regulations. Prices may increase in certain areas due to certain breeding charges that the state enforces. Long Term Ownership Costs Training Golden Retrievers are very intelligent and eager to please so many owners choose to train these fluffy pups on their own. Grooming The price of grooming a Golden Retriever can vary a lot. Some owners prefer a very polished look whereas other owners prefer a more rugged and natural look. Those owners looking for a natural look will not have to spend your money on grooming sessions. Dental hygiene is very important for dogs and is often neglected, so make sure to pay attention to this part of their care. Health Care and Veterinary Bills Whilst Golden Retrievers are generally a healthy breed they may run into some health complications along the way. Unfortunately cancer is the most common ailment that Goldens face. If your pup develops any sort of cancer it can be extremely expensive to treat. The best way to combat these complications is to keep your pup at a healthy weight, watch closely for any unusual symptoms, and stay on top of regular vet check-ups. Vaccinations and early health screenings will also further help ensure the health of your beloved family member. Remember too that as puppies they will need a series of vaccines. Insurance Given these huge expenses, lots of people purchase insurance for their dog. This type of insurance works very similarly to human insurance, you pay a premium each month and in return, the insurance company will help cover any unexpected medical expenses your pet may run into. It will be on the higher side when the dog is still small because it will need more frequent visits to the vet, shots, and you will likely have a stronger drive to purchase your new puppy lots of toys. As the dog gets older, vet visits will drop off dramatically, and it will have plenty of toys, so you will only need to purchase food and treats, bringing the cost down considerably. Some shots are highly recommended but still optional, while the rabies shot is a legal requirement in the United States. You will also need to purchase a monthly flea and tick medication like Frontline to keep your dog free of parasites, especially if it spends a lot of time outside. Foods with corn listed as the first ingredient will be less expensive, but they are primarily empty calories that will cause your dog to gain weight and feel hungry again more quickly. You can keep up with your pet using inexpensive brushes and combs to keep the coat looking nice and reduce shedding. A thorough brushing every few days should be enough. We also recommend brushing the teeth of your Golden Retriever as often as possible with a pet-safe toothpaste to help slow the progression of dental disease, and you may need to trim the nails on occasion if you hear them clicking on the floor. A professional groomer can help you keep the dog looking nice and is usually not that expensive. Most Golden Retrievers will only need their monthly dose of flea and tick medication that will also help protect them from heartworm. Some people try to avoid this medication, but the cost of eliminating a flea infestation and Lyme disease medication can be much more expensive. When you need it, you will be glad you have it. There is no need for litter boxes, aquariums, heat lamps, humidity concerns, etc. Your dog will be happy by your side in any weather. Monthly washing of the bed liner and any towels it uses frequently is all that is required. Products like the Bark Box can be a great way to keep your dog entertained at a relatively low cost. However, there is a high likelihood you can find one at a local animal shelter for significantly less. Saving Money on Golden Retriever Care The best way to reduce your healthcare costs when owning a Golden Retriever is to pay close attention to the recommended portion size on your food package. You should also avoid giving too many treats, or your dog will become overweight, which can lead to several health problems that will increase your costs. Monthly expenses can be quite low compared to other pets that require you to maintain habitat temperatures and humidity. One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. One or both of this puppy's parents is OFA Heart certified. This puppy has had early neurological stimulation exercises. It is also important to understand there are different types of golden retrievers which may affect pricing. For example, if you decide to choose the lowest golden retriever cost option, those puppies almost never have the necessary 3rd-party assurances or veterinarian procedures like dewormings, vaccinations, health-tested parents, or a thorough health checkup. These missing costs and services will be your responsibility, making the total cost ultimately the same. Not to mention the added stress on you these extra expenses and issues create! Adopting vs. Please note that depending on the shelter, you may have to pay additional costs for your Golden certain shots and procedures. Depending on if the golden retriever is a boy or a girl may affect the price as well. Some male vs female golden retriever differences may make you prefer one over the other. This will ultimately save you time and money on your golden retriever price because breeders often pay lower veterinary rates than individuals do. Distemper, for example, is a highly contagious disease that attacks the gastrointestinal, respiratory, and nervous systems of dogs. Unfortunately, there is no cure — just a lot of expenses and stress which really adds to the overall cost of your Golden Retriever puppy. It is wise to ask your vet for guidance on this decision. Talk with your vet about the procedure, when you should get it done, and how much it might cost. Dental Care for Your Golden Retriever Golden Retrievers, like many dogs, can be prone to dental issues such as plaque buildup, gum disease, and tooth decay. These cleanings typically involve scaling, polishing, and potentially extractions if necessary. Some insurance providers offer optional dental coverage as an add-on or as part of more comprehensive plans. If dental coverage is included in the policy, it typically covers a portion of the costs associated with dental cleanings, extractions, and other necessary dental treatments. This typically includes services such as bathing, brushing, trimming, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and sometimes additional services like de-shedding or dematting. Some groomers may offer package deals or discounts for regular appointments or bundled services. This monthly expense may seem like an additional cost, but it can be a worthwhile investment when considering the potential savings on veterinary bills for treatments, surgeries, and medications. By having pet insurance in place, you can ensure that your Golden Retriever receives the necessary care without straining your finances in the event of unexpected health issues. Puppy Training and Socialization Classes Attending puppy training and socialization classes is highly recommended for the comprehensive development of your Golden puppy. These classes provide structured learning environments, social interaction, and essential obedience training. By enrolling your Golden Retriever puppy in these classes, you ensure they receive the necessary foundation for good behavior, social skills, and overall well-being. The cost for food will depend on the size, age, and activity level of your companion. Fortunately, the cheaper brands of dog food can be just as good as the more premium brands as long as they meet the standards of AAFCO and are made with minimal processing. When making your decision, make sure to avoid artificial ingredients and preservatives where you can, since they could cause health problems for your dog.
More than twice as many Labs were registered than any other breed making it a likely leader for many years to come. In a recent article, a licensed professional counselor for more than twenty-five years, explained how owning a Lab can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children. Here is an excerpt from her article: The ten reasons that I am giving for children to have a dog are not listed in order of importance. All of us have different characteristics which we find more important than others. Every reason I list, however, is important to the childhood of your son or daughter. Dogs can help children grow stronger. Just by being a part of the family, dogs can help contribute to keeping your children healthier. According to Science Daily, kids who grow up with dogs have fewer allergies and are less likely to have eczema than other children. They grow up with higher levels of certain immune system supporters that keep them in better shape as they get older. School systems report that children from homes with dogs also have fewer sick days during the school year. Another benefit in this area of physical strength is that kids who play with dogs can take falling down and rough and tumble play much better. Be sure to read the rest of her seven part article, Ten Reasons to Own a Dog. At Twin Lakes Kennel, we have been breeding and training world class Labrador retrievers for more than thirty-five years. Our second-to-none Puppy Guarantee makes buying a pure-bred Labrador retriever one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Lab owners from around the country. And visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-date puppy information at .The apricot was brought to New Mexico by Spanish settlers, possibly as early as .As the story goes, the settlement of La Ciudad de Albaricoque was established near an apricot tree. Source: Wikipedia Are you interested in learning more about labrador retriever puppies for sale in Albuquerque, NM? Call us for more information at to purchase a world class Labrador Retriever from Woody Thurman today! Twin Lakes Kennel is the number 1 resource for Labrador Retriever puppies. We select from the most dominant American field bloodlines and breed for natural hunting instinct and tractability. Our Labs, both puppies and adults, are out of the top working Labrador Retriever bloodlines in the country. The end results are the most talented, well rounded Labrador Retrievers possible, making them a most desirable family pet. More than eight thousand 8, Labrador Retrievers have been bred and trained during those thirty-five years. He has won the Ducks Unlimited Open Championships twice. Our Labrador Retriever puppies are the culmination of a 30 year search for the most talented, well rounded Labrador Retriever possible. Our puppies begin a structured socialization program in the litter box and are introduced to birds at six weeks. All our Labrador Retriever Puppies carry a guarantee against hereditary defects and to have basic retrieving instincts. Parents of all our Labrador Retriever puppies are physically sound with certified hips and eyes. They are out of the top working Labrador Retriever bloodlines in the country. We guarantee all our Labrador Retriever puppies to be free from hereditary defects. Call Woody and Judi at for more information. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! We have answers. Labrador Retrievers were first developed in Newfoundland to work as retrieving dogs of fishermen. Today, these friendly and reliable dogs are often family pets or are used to guide the blind and the deaf. Browse our Labrador Retrievers for sale Albuquerque to see more of them! Uptown makes it easy to find your dream dog! Soon, your new Lab puppy will be at home with you. What makes Uptown Puppies different from other places with Labrador Retriever puppies for sale Albuquerque? A lot of people like visiting a breeder to choose potential puppies in person. We built the Uptown network to make it easy for people to find an Albuquerque Labrador Retriever for sale online without worrying about getting scammed or ending up buying from a puppy mill. We work only with qualified breeders! Are there any Labrador Retriever puppies in Albuquerque available now? There could be! However, keep in mind that Labrador Retrievers are popular dogs and new litters find new homes almost immediately after being listed. So when you find a Labrador Retriever Albuquerque that you like, contact the breeder straightaway to reserve the puppy. If you miss your chance, you could be waiting for some time before the new puppies arrive. Does Uptown Puppies have a transparency policy when it comes to breeding puppies? We believe everyone deserves to know where their puppy comes from. The Albuquerque Labrador Retriever breeders on Uptown are committed to transparency. These reputable businesses are ready to share with you the health and breeding records of their Labrador Retrievers for sale in Albuquerque when you ask for it. Do I still need to pick up my puppy in person? One of the services offered by the Labrador Retriever breeders Albuquerque on Uptown is safe puppy transport. You can arrange to have your new puppy sent to a major airport near you. While waiting, the breeder will keep in touch to answer your questions about the process and update you about any new milestones your puppy hits. Do you offer the cheapest Labrador Retriever puppies Albuquerque? Not really. This was never what we wanted to accomplish anyway. What the breeders and businesses on Uptown offer is the best possible service to people looking for a Labrador Retriever for sale Albuquerque. By maintaining high breeding standards and transparent health records, they are hoping to provide families a stress-free experience. Do you recommend specific food for Labradors? Labrador Retrievers are infamous for their appetite however, each dog is still different. What one Lab might like, another might shove away. And they have varying nutritional needs too. Are Labrador Retrievers intelligent and easy to train? This is why they are such a popular choice as guide or service dogs. Just remember to be patient and consistent when training Lab puppies. Do Labradors make good family dogs? The good-natured Labrador makes a great family dog. Their energy and playfulness will be appreciated by children and adults. They are also gentle and patient despite their size. Ready to meet the best dog ever? Uptown can help you find a Labrador Retriever for sale in Albuquerque! From older puppy to adult. Check out our Labrador Retriever puppies We have an all yellow litter due middle of July. Call us if you are interested in this litter. We have been breeding and showing dogs since , starting with Keeshonds and then moving on to Akitas, and finally settling on Labrador Retrievers. We chose Labrador Retrievers because of their sweet nature, versatility and capacity for learning. We are a small, private kennel and specialize in the breeding of sound, style Labrador Retrievers in all three colors: chocolate, yellow, and black. Our puppies from day one are put through sensory training. We utilize Puppy Culture with all of our litters to help build healthy puppy and dog minds. About Sandia Labradors Although our Lab's are actively shown in conformation, all of our dogs live in the house and are pets first and show dogs second. They are loved and played with on a daily basis and worked with on training several days a week. Frequently putting our dogs before AKC judges and winning, reinforces the soundness of our breeding program. All of our Labradors are carefully screened prior to breeding so that every precaution is taken to make sure that each breeding produces healthy, happy pups absent of any inherited disorders. The goal of our breeding program is to constantly be striving to produce that perfect pup in temperament, health, and conformation. Living with Labradors Labs are the best but there are a few things you should know before bringing one into your home. Click below to learn more. In The Beginning.Tour Our Facilities We raise all of our labs in our very own home. They are part of the family. Click below to see pictures of our facilities and to learn more about how we raise our dogs. Click below to tour our facilities. More Info Living with Labradors Labs are the best but there are a few things you should know before bringing one into your home. We've owned two other black labs, but Hennessey is by far the best mannered and well tempered, He is incredibly smart and I've had zero issues training him. I even trained him myself to become a therapy dog! Sandia Labradors are an exceptional breeder and I would recommend their pups to anyone looking for a new addition. The Sandia lineage is evident in his rapid adaption to obedience, loving demeanor, and dedication to play. We could not have found a better pet anywhere at any cost. Nancy and Eric Peterson.
Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. If you find it cute that your little German Shepherd puppy is biting your hand, think again! GSDs grow-up to become strong and muscular dogs. However, once a GSD pup grows , its biting habits are not cute at all. Trust me on this one. Little pups that bite on hands or chew on toys are doing so because they are developing teeth. Recently, we got a new addition to our GSD family, a cute male named Bobby, and surely Bobbly likes to bite everything. We did order a set of tug ropes for him and it is working. Here is the model that we ordered from Chewy. They chew on toys because their gums feel irritated and to make the pain go away, they bite and chew on things. This behavior during the teething period is very normal and not much of a problem. Another reason that GSDs bite a lot is that they did not receive proper training as pups. When people start to appreciate or encourage GS biting or nipping, they are making it develop this into a habit. Your dog will start to bite at visitors and household items. This is a problem that needs to be controlled right away or else someone will end up getting hurt. If you let your GSD bite and nip, you are letting it take over. Biting and nipping is also a play game for GSD pups. They like to bite other pups in the litter, and this is usually harmless. However, when a pup gets hurt unintentionally, it makes a loud sound. This sound is an indication for the pup that it is hurt, and it is time to stop. There are several ways you can train your pup not to bite or nip. If your pup is biting because of teething, it is not a problem. The first step is to tell your dog that biting is not acceptable. You will do this with the help of voice commands , body language, and hand signals. When you stop playing with your pup the moment it bites, it will associate no play with biting. Repeat this practice whenever your GSD bites or nips. It will help your GSD learn that biting and nipping is not appreciated. Put your other finger lightly beneath its chin. Your pup will not be able to bite you and in this uncomfortable situation, it will try to get your fingers out of its mouth. This is an effective technique that will make the puppy feel uncomfortable and it will avoid biting you. Remember, you will have to repeat this technique several times until your pup completely hates taking your hand in its mouth. Pull your hand backward and pinch your pup in the neck. Do not pinch too tightly. This will make the pup associate pinching with No, and it will soon stop biting you. Be Consistent in what You Teach If you are trying to train your dog to behave and stop biting and nipping, make sure you are doing it with consistency and repetition. While training a GSD, you will need to repeat your technique several times until it starts to learn. Your GSD needs to know that biting and nipping is not acceptable and will upset you. You will also need to become the leader of your dog, not a friend of the same level. When the dog accepts you as a leader, it starts to follow the rules you set and the commands you give. Do not let your puppy bite on your hands during the training process. Reward Good Behavior If your dog is doing well and following your orders, do not forget to offer it a treat. Food treats are a kind of reward that you offer your dog only when it learns something. Make sure you have enough treats with you when you are training your pup. This way your GSD will learn that no biting means a yummy treat. You can also sign-up for our newsletter to get an expert opinion on GSD behaviors. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! Hopefully, we will have the answers to all of your questions in this guide. But, all that cuteness quickly disappears when the biting phase starts. Puppy biting is normal in all breeds, including the German Shepherd. And, luckily, we have some great tips and tricks to minimize the painful biting period. In fact, it could have a number of causes. Here are a few of the most common reasons, in a little more detail. Teething One reason why puppies of all breeds may bite is teething. This stage often starts at around 3 or 4 months of age — only a few weeks after your puppy will arrive at their new home. Luckily, it only takes a few months for your puppy to have their full set of adult teeth. So, biting from teething is not permanent. If your puppy is biting or chewing because of teething, you may notice other symptoms like drooling, irritability, and going off their food. Boredom or Getting Attention Bored puppies may learn that biting gets some fun responses from you! Just like barking can. If your puppy has learnt that they can get some attention from you when they bite, they may do it to alleviate boredom. This can explain why puppies concentrate most of their biting on one family member — the person who gives the most fun response. Natural Play Biting is a natural part of puppy play — as much as some owners might not want to hear it! German Shepherd puppies, just like any other breed, will bite whilst they are playing with you or with other dogs. If this behavior continues into adulthood, the biting can be more problematic. Responding to Rough Play Some people like to play with German Shepherd puppies in quite a rough manner. This can include pushing them, or rolling them over. Behaviors like this can make puppies very excitable, and encourage biting during play. Encourage calm play between your family members or friends and your puppy. Herding Instincts The German Shepherd breed has a history as a herding dog. The creator of the breed, Captain Max von Stephanitz, bred the German Shepherd in an attempt to create the ultimate all-round herding breed. This was all the way back in the late s. Although the history of the breed has changed over time, from herding to working dog, their origins remain the same. Many herding dogs are prone to natural chase instincts. They may chase small children or other animals — particularly those that are making lots of noise. And, these herding behaviors can include nipping at heels. Once again, your behavior can minimize biting from this cause. Exploration Another common explanation for young German Shepherd biting is their natural curiosity. And, they may do this partly with their mouths. What you really want to know is, when will it stop? However, you can minimize the period by making a few easy changes to your behavior when biting occurs. The best ways to stop puppy biting and minimize the biting period are training and prevention. This means training your puppy to be gentle with you and other people, and taking away opportunities for your excited puppy to bite humans. You may need to go as far as to completely separate your GSD puppy from small children and people who insist on rough play with puppies. We know that this can only encourage biting. Remove Yourself Calmly If your puppy starts to bite you, during play or any other time, the best solution is to calmly and quietly remove yourself. You can use tools like baby gates to keep your German Shepherd in a puppy-safe room. In fact — your puppy will learn that biting during play or cuddles only results in you leaving, and them ending up on their own! Not only will this help to show your puppy that biting is not an acceptable part of playtime, but it can also help your own sanity to remove yourself from those sharp teeth occasionally. Think About Clothing You should also think about the type of clothing you wear around your puppy. Loose, hanging clothing can be appealing to your puppy, and provide something easy to grip on with their sharp teeth. Wear tight fitting clothing to minimize the number of things your puppy can bite at. Use Distractions If you, or young children in your household, are keen to pet your puppy without being bitten, you should make the most of distractions like treats or toys. You can hold a chew for your puppy to keep their attention and mouth distracted whilst someone pets them! Often, puppy owners only think about biting whilst their puppy is actively gnawing on them. One method is to reward them with treats when you are petting them and they are not biting you. Another is to reward them for calm behavior around the house. This way they learn that acting calmly and letting you touch them without biting will earn them good things! One popular method to stop puppy biting is to squeal, squeak, growl, or make another loud noise. Some people claim that this method replicates natural puppy play and tells your GSD when they are being too rough. For some owners, this may work. If this is the case, making a noise when your puppy bites will act as a reward, and encourage your German Shepherd puppy to bite you even more. This is one reason why puppies biting children is so common. Many children will make lots of noise, especially if a puppy bites them, which can lead to further nipping. This is similar to the method above, if used alone. This is why training has to be done in small stages — first you must teach the puppy what action you want, and then you can give the action a name, or command. Punishment Methods The best methods to stop your puppy from biting involve positive rewards for the behaviors you want. Studies on dog training and behavior have shown that punishment based methods are often associated with an increase of problematic behaviors. Punishing your puppy for biting can lead to distrust and fear from your puppy. The causes of puppy biting that we looked at earlier in this guide apply to all GSD puppies. In fact, they apply to all puppies of any breed. Biting and chewing is a normal puppy behavior, and a normal part of play. As long as you react to this behavior in the right way, it is a period that will pass. The biggest fear for most German Shepherd puppy owners is that their puppy is aggressive when it bites. German Shepherd puppy biting can be accompanied by ferocious growls or snarls. It can even draw blood. So are behaviors like snarling and growling. And, if your puppy is biting hard enough to injure you, they may not have learnt proper bite inhibition yet. This is the process where your puppy learns to be gentle with his teeth on your skin. The positive reward methods we discussed earlier in this guide are the best way to teach your puppy bite inhibition. Remove yourself calmly and quietly whenever your puppy bites. And make sure to reward any calm behavior — including when your puppy lets you pet it without biting. Speak to a Behaviorist If you think your puppy is exhibiting aggressive behaviors, such as guarding their resources, you may want to speak to a behaviorist. They will be able to look at your puppy as an individual case, and analyse their behavior properly. Do Adult German Shepherds Bite? The German Shepherd breed is known for being aggressive in some circumstances — they make popular guard dogs, and are number one candidates for working dog roles in the police and military. Since puppies lack the dexterity that you and I have, they use their mouths to explore the world around them. By understanding the behavior of biting itself, you can begin to see just how normal biting is in German Shepherd puppies. Just because biting is a normal behavior in a puppy does not mean we should tolerate it or promote it. Since biting is a form of communication for German Shepherd puppies, there are many things our puppies could be trying to say! So why do Shepherd pups bite? Puppies often communicate with their siblings through biting and pawing, especially when they are trying to incite a play session. Your pup may gnaw on your hand as if it were a chew toy, especially when you are a moving target. Puppies play and bite their siblings from the moment they are old enough to do so. This is why the behavior is so common, and why our Shepherd pupswill need to learn how to transition to playing with appropriate chewing options. Not only are our hands and feet tempting enough, but even more so when a puppy has a high prey drive. A prey drive is an ingrained need to chase after moving objects, whether it is appropriate or not. A swinging hand as we walk by can be extremely tempting for a growing pup, causing them to jump up and nip. If it seems like your Shepherd puppy is always biting you when you are in motion, it may be due to their high prey drive! They Are Curious As we mentioned above, German Shepherd puppies use their mouth to explore the world around them. Biting can help them examine and understand an object, and our hands and feet can fall into that category as well! If you catch your puppy gnawing on everything around your home, it may be their curiosity getting the best of them! A dog quickly learns what behavior gets a reaction, causing them to do it over and over again. Even if their bites result in a negative reaction from you, it still counts as attention. They Are Teething Similar to teething babies, a German Shepherd puppy experiences teething pain as well. If your Shepherd pup seems to find relief when chewing on objects, they may be biting you due to teething discomfort. They Are Herding You If your German Shepherd puppy is constantly biting at your ankles, they may be displaying some herding behaviors. German Shepherds are ingrained with a need to work, especially in dogs with a working bloodline. If your German Shepherd is always nipping at your feet, running to your side when you are moving, or showing signs of anxiety or frustration when you are moving around your home; it may be herding behavior. So how can you stop this normal puppy behavior? Redirect The Behavior One of the most effective ways to stop your German Shepherd puppy from biting is by redirecting the behavior. An effective distraction is a wonderful way to end the behavior without punishment, and show them how much fun the alternative to biting can be. The next time your Shepherd pup is displaying undesirable nipping, try to pull out their favorite toy. Since this will need to be a toy that your dog enjoys, be sure to offer them the option that they find most exciting. This can be a Kong toy , rope, bone, or any other chewing option that your dog loves. By doing this each time your Shepherd puppy begins to bite you, they will begin to understand that they would much rather play with an acceptable chew option. Having a variety of chew toys can alleviate their need to bite our hands and feet, and offer them the relief they seek in this uncomfortable transition. There are so many toys created for teething puppies, that it should be easy to fill your home with plenty of appropriate options. One of our favorite chew toys is the Kong Teething Binkie. Any attention can validate the behavior, causing them to make it a habit. This shows them that the behavior is unacceptable, and does not involve any harmful negative reinforcement. Our attention is important to a puppy, and they do not want to be ignored. By showing them that biting will only result in us pulling away, they will learn to ditch the undesirable behavior. Interrupt The Behavior Sometimes a Shepherd puppy needs a sharp and sudden sound to pull them out of a bad habit. By giving a quick interrupter cue ouch, yip, eek , you can pull your puppy away from the action and gain their attention. Because of this, it is so important to offer plenty of mental and physical activities throughout your home. For example, if your puppy nips at strangers each time they walk in the door, it may be best to limit their time around the guest and send them to a separate play area. Once they begin to understand that biting is unacceptable, you can refrain from using their separate play area as often. Similar to what we discussed above about being proactive, a separate play area can help them calm down and collect themselves. Once your German Shepherd puppy begins to mature and understand that biting is unacceptable, they should require less time away. Just as there are effective methods in canine training, there are counterproductive actions as well. Do Not Hit Or Yell Since biting is a normal behavior that puppies must learn to grow out of, it is not productive to hit or yell at your puppy when they bite. Doing this can show them from a young age that interaction with you results in something negative, and can hinder your training process. By using other distractions and training methods when they bite, you can turn every bite into a learning experience for your pup! This can seem like a fun game to your pup, and can actually encourage the behavior. Try your best to go limp when they bite you, and pull your attention away from the pup. By doing this, you show them that this behavior does not offer them any extra fun. Extra attention can validate their undesirable behavior, making it challenging to break. Try your best to refrain from reacting to a bite outside of your interrupter cue, and pull your attention away from your furry friend afterward. Biting is a normal behavior in puppies of all kinds. Puppies begin to bite their siblings from the moment they can move, and will continue this behavior until they learn otherwise. A biting German Shepherd puppy is to be expected, and should not result in any discouragement on your part. As long as you are following the tips we mentioned above, your puppy should shy away from this behavior in no time! Biting in puppies is not usually a sign of aggression. Mild biting is usually a form of play, and should be easily corrected. However, there are some rare cases where biting in German Shepherd puppies is a sign of something more. If your pup is displaying any snarling, growling, ears pinned back, stiff posture, or any other signs of canine aggression, your pup may be biting in reaction to fear or pain. If you are unable to make any progress within a month of implementing the tips we discussed above, it may be time to contact a dog trainer. A trainer can not only help your pup refrain from biting, but offer other obedience training as well. Final Thoughts As you can see, biting is a normal behavior for our beloved German Shepherd puppies. Be sure to review the tips we discussed above on proper canine training, and you can banish puppy biting for good!
Cotton Goose We purchased Goose from the Dec 25th litter and you chose to put his picture on the website! We just wanted to send you a quick note saying that we are still getting compliments on a daily basis and love the dog that he has become. We just took our engagement photos so I thought I would send one along to you to see An updated pic of Goose! Have a great summer! She has grown to be the most beautiful and smart dog I've met. Her temperament has been calm since day one! Such a fast learner, loves to swim and retrieve, and is full of personality. I couldn't be happier with her. Compliments everywhere we go, thank you again. .Cotton Cotton Cotton We bought Cotton on March 23rd and it's been sooo much fun since he became our part of family. He is 10 months old now. He is sooo full of energy all the time and he always get excited when I arrive at home after work. He loves water, its so much fun seeing him swimming. Everyone around our neighborhood loves him and he is the most pretty dog ever.Jagger Bleu Cotton Hi there! We sure love our girl who turns 1 Dec 21st! You did a great job, she is so CALM! He is so smart!! He is an AKC S. White Lab Puppy!! Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Recommended by D Magazine.We have bred and raised rare Labrador Retrievers for 20 years. We consider ourselves boutique breeders; we usually have one litter at a time, and rarely two. Our mature dogs are family members, each and every one. They are raised on our 20 acre Arabian horse ranch, which is fenced in its entirety for the safety of our animals. We have ponds to swim in, birds to chase, and shade trees to relax under on those hot Texas Days. All our puppies are birthed in our home. As each baby is born, Russ and I fuss over each arrival with all the anticipated joy of grandparents. To put it very simply, we adore our dogs. I love the diversity of genetic possibilities. While it is true that we are famous for the rare color of our Labradors-there is so much more that goes into it. Everyone wants a beautiful stunning puppy that stops traffic. We go even further. We try to minimize negative behavior traits, for example, our line of pups and mature dogs are quieter and will rarely excessively bark. We have all experienced or witnessed a neurotic or aggressive dog. This is the type of animal we all wish to avoid. Our Labradors are known for their loyalty, intelligence and charisma-as well as their stunning great looks. This is an easy statement to say, but we can brag for hours on the accomplishments of our labradors. These are all great accomplishments, but the best compliment we ever receive are our heartfelt letters, Christmas Cards and emails from our families that just have to let us know how their dog is unique and truly the best dog ever. We smile because we know, they are our treasures and they are our family members too. We completely understand. My passion for as long as I can remember has been animals. In addition to our rare Labradors, we also isolate unusual genetic qualities of our Arabian Horses. These two passions grew together over time. Horses are also exotic animals that just capture our imaginations and attentions. I have spent 20 years breeding rare Arabian Horses. It is because of the decades spent studying our animals that I see more than most when they look at the animal. I actually see what type of eye is most engaging, the shape of the eye, the type of expression that speaks to us. I can go on and on, but I believe you see what I mean. Legacy-Labs was not created as a business venture. It was created out of a love for the animal. Some people might say that our pups are too pricey but we believe that through decades of breeding, we offer one of the best dogs available on the market. We feel they are priceless. The demand for our puppies has grown substantially over the years yet we refuse to mass produce. It takes all our care and attention to keep all their needs fulfilled. I feel committed to each and every puppy, each and every family. We are committed to the physical, emotional and mental strength of each dog and pup at our facility. This is our commitment to you, as well as our pups. At this time we have three males that are our main sires at Legacy-Labs. Our males do not stand at stud to the public at this time. Please remember we support Limited Registration. Legacy Alamo We support limited registration. Located 20 miles from Downtown Dallas on I.We appreciate your interest and invite your inquiries. For driving directions go to the contact us page. We invite you to browse the happy families we have helped create on our reviews page. We whelp and raise all our puppies in our master bathroom, kitchen and outside at times during the day and back in the bathroom at night from weeks. These puppies are not kept outside for any extended period or overnight, period. They are constantly supervised while under our care. Our labs range in color from snow white to very-light cream. They love to play fetch, stay by your side, and they can be trained to hunt. We breed both the English and American type of Labradors and our litters are a combination of the two. Our primary concerns in order of importance are: Health, Temperament, Socialization, and then Coat Color. We Live Stream the puppies from the birthing process through 7 weeks of age! Click here for our videos Your puppy comes with limited registration. Full registration is possible for established breeders and show prospects. We are very careful to insure our puppies go to fantastic homes, while insuring that there is no possibility of adding one single dog to the unwanted dog population. We interact with our puppies constantly. We introduce them to Bio Sensor and Early Neurological Stimulation at 3 days and continue until they are 15 days old. As they get older, 4 weeks we allow them in the kitchen, family area, and in the back yard. They are well socialized with adults human as well as other adult dogs in a warm and loving atmosphere. We can hold them in our arms, on their backs and cradle them like a baby. We pride ourselves on producing sound, soft, teddy bear-like puppies that grow into wonderful house pets, service and therapy dogs. We don't have a kennel. Labradors are very affectionate and social creatures. BUT, if kept isolated, they can develop habits such as digging, chewing, barking, and generally destroying anything in sight. We socialize and handle our puppies several times throughout the day and exposed to all the normal and sometimes, not-so-normal goings-on of family life. We try to expose them to as many different sounds as possible so that when they come to your home, some of these sounds are familiar. We also begin using a crate as a group and individually as soon as age appropriate. When it is time to go to their new homes, our puppies are very close to being potty-trained, but are in no way house-broken, they will let you know when they need to go outside, but they can't hold it for too long. We regularly get reports of successful potty-training as well as "sit", "shake", and "lay-down" at eight to nine weeks! We offer a "head start" for our puppies in a loving environment. We grow very fond of our puppies and it's very hard to see them leave, but we know that we have found what we think will be the ideal forever home for our pups. We love getting pictures and updates of our puppies. And we encourage all puppy owners to keep communications open and send lots of pictures as they grow. All our puppies are up to date on shots and worming. They will be micro-chipped, preregistered with the American Kennel Club, and come with a written contract that they are clear of inherited hip problems for a period of 30 months. And since our dogs are tested before breeding, it enables us to also cover over genetic defects for the life of your puppy. We also test the heart, verify full detention, and normal patella. Registration is AKC Limited. Inquire for Full Registration. The color will be registered as yellow. Our primary concerns in order of importance: Health, Temperament and Socialization, and then Coat Color. We have working labs in homes all around the United States and some homes with 2 and 3 Sugarland labs. It's no secret labs can come in many different sizes, colors and energy levels. While I have much respect for the lean, hard working "American style" lab, I fell in love with and raise the "English style" lab with thicker bones, blockier heads and calmer demeanor also known as the "gentleman's gundog" So if you are looking for a "white lab puppy" to add to your family you are at the right place. We offer "English style" lab puppies for sale to approved loving homes only. Our puppies come in white, yellow and black. A White lab is not rare and does not carry an extra gene, it is just the lightest shade of yellow and registers as yellow with AKC. ALL of my babies are born in my home under full time care. I have been blessed to get to raise labs for 10 plus years and I have lots of references upon request. I stay in touch with alot of my puppy people and get tons of updates. So I proudly offer a discount to our men and women in all branches of our military active or retired fire fighters, police officers, and our repeat buyers. In the last ten years of raising my furbabies, I have met some really cool people and they included their Sugarland doggie in their special moments. Thank you all for sharing with me. Below are just some of the beautiful moments. Please don't hesitate to ask me anything. I will help you best I can. And of course be aware of the scammers.A few years ago my website was stolen by folks in Nigeria and stole my champion pedigrees and used them for their bulldogs. Pedigrees and health testing by request. Our dogs health is a top priority and we use Nuvet vitamins. .That breaks down to 52 cents a day Anyone can order even if you are not getting a puppy from me. Please use my order code .Contact Us.
mini labradoodle puppies for sale in sc - Is this the Goldendoodle puppy coat transition? Where are all these dog mats coming from? The surprising transition from puppy coat to adult coat can sneak up on any unsuspecting dog mom. But the subject of the Goldendoodle coat transition deserves just as much attention as all the other Goldendoodle pros and cons. However, one thing is true for all Goldendoodle puppies. At some point, the Goldendoodle puppy coat will change and the adult coat will come in. Matting can take over quickly Kind of like the month of March, the coat transition may enter like a lion! You may be surprised how quickly the mats coming roaring onto the scene. When my Goldendoodle sidekick Chloe was a pup, her puppy coat was soft and silky and there was not a mat to be found, even in the crevices like the armpits! Meet Chloe. Her puppy coat was silky soft. First under the ears. Then the armpits. Brushing became our thing. Brushing removes dead hair that would otherwise cause mats. Like hair on our human heads, dog hair has to go somewhere. Since Doodles tend to shed less, Goldendoodle grooming is part of keeping the hair from tangling and matting. There will always be hair to manage with any dog, whether low-shedding or high-shedding. With a low-shedding dog, there is a greater amount of grooming. With a high-shedding dog, there is a greater amount of time spent cleaning hair off floors. Either way, you have the joy of being a dog parent! For more about shedding, read my article: Do Goldendoodles Shed? It may make you feel overly confident. When the Goldendoodle puppy coat starts transitioning, be ready. When do Goldendoodle puppies shed their coat? However, as a rule of thumb, Goldendoodle parents say anywhere between four to eight months and may even be up to two years. What happens during a Goldendoodle puppy coat transition? When the Goldendoodle adult coat begins to grow in, the puppy coat begins to shed. This creates tangles. If not groomed early, the tangles turn into mats. Since there are so many Goldendoodle coat types, there is not one set example. Some parents will hardly notice the change while other Goldendoodle parents will find what feels like an explosion of mats. What areas are the biggest matting culprits? Subscribe Do Goldendoodles Shed? Unfortunately, there is a lot of misinformation out there about Goldendoodle shedding that needs to be cleared up. Because they contain the DNA of one non-shedding breed the Poodle and one shedding breed the Golden Retriever they can not be considered completely non-shedding. However, they typically will shed less than their Golden Retriever ancestors. The amount of Goldendoodle shedding your puppy will experience is largely dependent on what generation they are and the genetics of their parents. Why Do Goldendoodles Shed? Goldendoodle shedding works largely in the same way as other dog breeds. There are four main causes we should explore to answer this question… Year Round Goldendoodle Shedding All animals with hair shed…even humans! Shedding happens as old hair particles die and are replaced with new ones. This is a completely normal and, in most cases, a completely healthy process. Dog breeds that have continuously growing hair, such as the Poodle, are essentially non-shedding. This is because the hair shafts have longer life spans and therefore the shedding is infrequent and essentially unnoticeable. Seasonal Goldendoodle Shedding Many dogs, potentially including Goldendoodles, will shed significantly more in the spring and fall seasons. The reason for this is their coats are adapting to become lighter or heavier to match the weather. Related: Do Goldendoodles Like Snow? All puppies, including Goldendoodles, have a different coat as puppies than they do as adults. Goldendoodle puppy coats are generally very soft and thin while adult coats are typically stiffer, longer, and thicker. Health Issues If your Goldendoodle sheds significantly more than they usually do it could be because of a health issue. There are loads of potential health problems that could cause your Goldendoodle to experiences excess shedding, but a few are parasites, infections, allergies, and cancer. Call your vet if you notice excessive scratching, foot licking, open sores, or skin irritation. In non-emergencies, you can live chat with a veterinarian online by clicking here. Many of these health concerns are expensive to treat. This is one reason why I believe that every Goldendoodle owner should invest in a quality pet insurance policy —I personally use and recommend Healthy Paws for my Goldendoodle! Click here to get an instant, online pet insurance quote from Healthy Paws! How Much Do Goldendoodles Shed? Any breeder who tries to tell you otherwise is either lacking proper knowledge about the breed or being deceptive. With that being said, Goldendoodles can be non-shedding. There is just no way to guarantee it. This generation has one Golden Retriever parent and one Poodle parent, so their coat can vary widely in which parent it resembles more. Many F1 Goldendoodles will have straight, flat coats. Sometimes people will get lucky and have an F1 Goldendoodle that is non-shedding or very close to it. In other cases, F1 Goldendoodles can shed as much as a Golden Retriever! The moral of the story is if you choose to get an F1 Goldendoodle, be prepared for at least some amount of shedding. What does this mean when it comes to shedding? It means that an F1b Goldendoodle will likely shed less than an F1, but again this is far from a guarantee. Overall, this generation is a safer bet than the F1 and can be appropriate for those without severe allergies. F1bb Goldendoodles An F1bb Goldendoodle is the closest of the common generations to being a purebred poodle—it contains .For that reason, it is the safest bet for allergy sufferers and those who want the best odds of having a non-shedding Goldendoodle. On average, most F1bb Goldendoodles are likely to either shed very little or not at all. At the end of the day, if your heart is set on a Goldendoodle and you want the best odds of it being non-shedding, you should choose an F1bb. F2 Goldendoodles F2 Goldendoodles tend to be the worst generation when it comes to shedding. There are many potential parings that can result in F2 Goldendoodle puppies. As a result, coats and other genetic factors can vary widely. This generation can be just as difficult, if not more difficult, to predict than F1 Goldendoodles. Like with F1 Goldendoodles, many F2 Goldendoodles will have improper coats without furnishings—a telltale sign that they will shed. While their theoretical DNA percentages differ slightly, this generation is essentially on par with the F1b generation when it comes to the potential for Goldendoodle shedding. F2b Goldendoodles are more likely to be non-shedding than an F2 Goldendoodles, but less likely than F2bb Goldendoodles or F1bb Goldendoodles. Feed a Healthy Diet Obviously, a health diet should be important no matter if your Goldendoodle sheds or not. However, a diet that lacks the proper vitamins and nutrients your dog needs can result in excess shedding that might not have occurred otherwise. Make sure you feed Goldendoodle dog a balanced, complete dog food. In addition, there is some research that suggests an additional supplement of omega-3 fatty acids can aid in healthy hair growth among other benefits. Additionally, ensure your Goldendoodle is drinking enough water. This promotes healthy, hydrated skin and should minimize shedding. The general rule of thumb is that dogs should drink about an ounce of water per day for each pound they weigh. In addition to preventing matting and distributing healthy oils across their skin, brushing loosens dead hair and sets it free in a controlled environment—much better than all over the house! Bathing is also an important part of your grooming regimen. One common misconception when it comes to Goldendoodle grooming is that shaving your dog will prevent or reduce shedding. Choose the Right Grooming Equipment Just as important as how frequently you groom your dog is what equipment you use. However, many owners make the mistake of purchasing a cheap, generic brand. In my opinion, this is one area where spending a little extra can make a world of difference. While not needed by many Goldendoodle parents, if your dog does shed, this can be your saving grace. The Furminator Deshedding tool is one of the most highly-rated options available. Choose the long hair option in either the large size or small size depending on the size of your Goldendoodle. This makes it a better choice than a lot of popular competitors. Your vacuum is either going to become your best friend or a huge headache depending on which type you use. I suggest investing in a vacuum specifically designed to handle pet hair, like one of these highly-rated options from Amazon: Invest in an Air Purifier If you struggle with allergies, an air purifier can help remove the excess hair, dander, and other allergens floating around in the air. In conclusion, Goldendoodles are not guaranteed to be non-shedding. If your Goldendoodle puppy does shed, look at the potential reasons why and do your best to manage the shedding through proper dog care like healthy eating and grooming as well as through handy devices like an air purifier or a pet hair vacuum. Related Goldendoodle Articles. They may seem like the dream family dog. We discuss just how much the variety of hybrids really shed and why some shed more than others. Plus, we get some great insights to Goldendoodle shedding from the owners themselves! While most rarely shed, others are moderate shedders, while few are borderline heavy shedders. And, a big part of the reason is due to genetics. In other words, how was the Goldendoodle bred? Believe it or not, all doodles are not bred the same way. There are 4 generations or versions of Goldendoodles. In addition, some versions of these doodles are known to shed more than others since some will have more genetics from Golden Retrievers and others, more from Poodles. So what does this mean? In most cases, the F1 Goldendoodles are typically the heaviest shedding of the 4 types of doodles. These are your traditional doodles and what most people imagine when they think about these dogs. They have the classic shaggy and curly coat that can range in a variety of cream colors. And landing on the opposite side of the spectrum, the F1B Goldendoodle is the lowest shedding generation. Though they almost always true hypoallergenic mixed dogs, their coats can vary quite a bit. Some F1B doodles will have longer fur and others will be short and curly. But according to owner reports, most of the F2 Goldendoodles are light shedding dogs with a few moderate shedders. F1s may shed but F1Bs are less likely to. However, what makes them unique is the variety of colors. They come in even more coat colors than the F1B, ranging from apricots, cream, a unique champagne, and various degrees of red. The good news is that F2B Goldendoodles are generally non-shedding dogs. So, if you only have mild allergies to dogs, then the F2B Goldendoodle would most likely be perfect for you too. So owners, pay attention! However, these are the other possible reasons why your Goldendoodle may be shedding. Your doodle may not have enough nutrition Dogs can certainly suffer from malnutrition. And in some cases, the lack of nutrients can lead to a huge increase in shedding regardless if your Goldendoodle is hypoallergenic or not. If it can happen to another dog, it can happen to your Goldendoodle. Cheap dog food will barely meet the requirements. Bad dog shampoo can cause excessive shedding A common mistake many novice owners make is to use cheap and low quality dog shampoo. These dog shampoos usually have unnatural ingredients. And as a result, these low-end grooming products can lead to excessive shedding. Not too long ago, we took our Corgi to a new dog groomers. When she came back, she was losing patches or fur, for days. Another thing to be aware of: never use human shampoo on your Goldendoodle. Human shampoos are made for humans, not dogs. I cringe when people tell me they use their own shampoo on animals. The leftover soap from the bath will do more harm than good for your Goldendoodle. As for dog shampoo, I highly recommend going with a brand that provides all-natural ingredients. The most popular and effective type of dog shampoo are oatmeal-based products. It keeps them smelling fresh and the made in USA ingredients are top-notch! How Much do Goldendoodles Shed? Like with all mutts, genetics play a huge factor into appearance, temperament and of course, shedding. The Goldendoodle is no exception. Though Goldendoodles are generally known to be a low-shedding dog breed, the results can vary. To find answers, we decided to survey the popular Goldendoodle Subreddit , other dog forums and owners we personally know. With others, you will find dog hair all over your clothes even with consistent cleaning and vacuuming. Not really with our doodle. Ours has coarse and wavy fur from the golden side so he sheds quite a bit. Still not nearly as much as a pure golden retriever. Katherine S. Kristen A. She is a very light shedding dog…maybe extremely light shedding, but it really depends on what kind of doodle you have. But regardless of how much they shed, some grooming will be necessary. In addition, there are still best grooming practices that you should be aware of. Brushing a Goldendoodle You still need to brush a Goldendoodle. As you may know, doodles are known for their curly and sometimes shaggy coats. The problem is that these coats are more prone to matting, which can be especially painful for your dog. For double coated dog breeds, I always recommend going with the Furminator. Fortunately, the Goldendoodle is a single coated, low-shedding dog. Best Slicker Brush for Goldendoodles That being said, you should use a slicker brush. Unfortunately, we only have double coated breeds, but the dog community has been raving about the Hertzko Slicker Brush. After you brush your doodle, the button releases the collected hair for a nice and swift clean up. Patience is key. While some owners suggest brushing your doodle every night, you can probably get away with brushing every other day. And at the very least, once a week. Just be aware of any potential matting on the coat! Although daily brushing drastically reduces the chance of matting, these de-matting tools are effective for the worst tangles. Some owners suggest alternating between the two during grooming sessions. But if you must choose between the two, de-matting is more important for most Goldendoodles. It really depends on your individual dog. Keeping up with de-matting a Goldendoodle is extremely important. If it gets bad, it will be a painful experience for the dog trying to get tough knots out. If it gets to that point, it may be better to shave the knots off. So, Are Goldendoodles For Me? There are very few things about the Goldendoodle that make them difficult dogs. Your other option would be to pick one of these hairless dog breeds. Otherwise, all types of Goldendoodles will make an excellent member of any family. So do you own a Goldendoodle? How much do they actually shed? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Where does that leave the Goldendoodle? However, Goldendoodles will typically shed more than a purebred Poodle. You can also get smaller varieties, like the Miniature Goldendoodle, which can further reduce the overall shedding since the dog has less hair to lose than a larger dog. The amount of hair a Goldendoodle sheds will depend mostly on its genes. This is because, unlike a purebred dog, designer breeds aka cross breeds inherit traits from two different breeds. In this case, the Poodle and the Golden Retriever. On the one hand, Poodles shed virtually no hair at all. In contrast, however, Golden Retrievers are considered moderate-to-heavy shedding dogs. Goldens are also double-coated , meaning they have an undercoat and an outer coat. This is known as seasonal shedding , and it occurs as the Golden naturally prepares for changing weather conditions. So, the best way to know how much a Goldendoodle is likely to shed is to consider its genetics, and the best way to know that is to either get a DNA test or speak with your breeder. But what do these terms mean? And how do they relate to shedding? With this variety, you are likely to experience low-to-moderate shedding and potentially some level of seasonal shedding if your Goldendoodle has an undercoat. This variety is generally considered low shedding. There are other variations of Goldendoodle, but those are the main ones worth mentioning. I say that because breeding beyond an F1BB is getting to the point where you might as well get a purebred Poodle. Nevertheless, with that out of the way, another factor to consider is how big your Goldendoodle is likely to be since this can impact the amount of hair you notice around the home. However, smaller dogs have less hair to drop in the first place compared to larger dogs. So this can be another factor to consider. And the Goldendoodle typically comes in three main sizes : Standard: The Standard Goldendoodle, which is the result of crossing a Standard Poodle with a Golden Retriever, stands 20 to 24 inches tall and weighs between 50 to 90 pounds. Small: The Small Goldendoodle is about inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. This is about midway between a Standard and Miniature Goldendoodle. A Miniature Goldendoodle is typically between 13 to 20 inches tall from the shoulder to the ground and weighs about 15 to 35 pounds. But those are the general heights and weights of a Goldendoodle. As mentioned, the lowest shedding variety of Goldendoodle is the Miniature F1BB Goldendoodle because this is the smallest variety and has mostly Poodle genes. And the most accurate way to know what any Goldendoodle is in terms of its lineage would be to get a genetic test done or speak to a reputable breeder before adopting. That said, there are some tell tail signs that can give you a general indication of how much Poodle and Golden Retriever the dog has in its genes. They also have curly or wavy coats, which can be another thing to look for. Goldendoodle Recommended: Go here to see our top-rated air purifiers for dog hair and dander Are Goldendoodles High Maintenance? Goldendoodles can range from high to low-maintenance dogs depending on their coat, which in turn depends on their genes. Poodles typically have curly hair that, like humans, grows in perpetuity. Not only are curly coats prone to mats, tangles, and knots, but they can get debris trapped in them fairly easily. And because the hair keeps on growing, it needs to be trimmed to keep it orderly. Golden Retrievers, on the other hand, have straight, medium-length coats. That said, they do shed more and have an undercoat, which can increase brushing frequency if you want to keep your home and car free of dog hair. What sort of brush should you use? What about trimming? So when it comes to trimming, the most important thing to remember is not to take too much off. Are Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? No, Goldendoodles are not hypoallergenic. And since all dogs produce dander, there is technically no such thing as a completely hypoallergenic dog. And one of these dogs is the Poodle, which has been designated as hypoallergenic by the AKC. So, going back to the second point I made earlier, how hypoallergenic a Goldendoodle is will depend on its lineage. As with shedding, the more your Goldendoodle takes after a Poodle, the less likely he is to trigger allergy-related symptoms. For example, an F1BB Goldendoodle which is mostly Poodle will generally be more tolerable among allergy sufferers than an F1 Goldendoodle and a lot more tolerable than a purebred Golden Retriever. If you are noticing too much loose hair around your home, there are numerous ways you can get this under control, but the most effective approaches relate to diet and grooming. Poor quality dog foods that contain lots of fillers and cheap, artificial ingredients can lead to allergies and excessive shedding, whereas high-quality kibble will give your dog everything needed to thrive. Not only can daily brushing help reduce the occurrence of mats if your Goldendoodle has long, curly hair, but it can help prevent excess shedding by helping to spread his natural skin oils and remove the dead hair that is already on the coat. So, brushing can be a very worthwhile activity. Aside from that, bathing your dog every month or two can help you remove a lot of excess old hair, especially when you combine this with a good blow dry and brush. There are other ways you can reduce shedding , but those are the approaches that tend to work well in most cases. In some cases, however, dogs can shed due to health reasons like allergies, fleas, and even disease, for example. Why Is My Goldendoodle Shedding? January 22, Goldendoodles are considered hypoallergenic dogs. This does not mean that they do not shed at all, however. Can Goldendoodles shed? Many assume hypoallergenic to mean non-allergenic, meaning that something does not prompt an allergic response. Even hypoallergenic dogs shed hair or fur. Except for hairless dogs, all dogs — hypoallergenic or otherwise — shed at least a little bit. This is true even for Poodles with non-shedding coats. Most Goldendoodles have low-shedding or non-shedding coats; Goldendoodles typically lose less hair or fur than other non-hypoallergenic dog breeds. This makes Goldendoodles a great dog breed for people with mild pet allergies. In most cases, this is perfectly normal. The important thing is to understand what normal shedding is for your dog, and be aware when your dog sheds more than usual. What if your Goldendoodle is shedding more than usual? Various things can lead to hair and fur loss in dogs: Some dogs lose extra fur during the summer and in higher temperatures. Parasites and health conditions can cause shedding. Some medications or grooming products may cause shedding. Things like stress, allergies, and nutritional issues can cause dogs to lose their fur. If your dog is losing more fur than usual, you should talk to your dogs veterinarian. F1B Goldendoodle puppies are the most likely to have non-shedding coats, but because Goldendoodles are designer dogs it is difficult to know with certainty what their coat will be like. This is why getting your Goldendoodle from a knowledgeable and experienced Goldendoodle breeder is important. Take a look at our current Goldendoodle puppies for sale in Arkansas. All of our puppies come to you with a two-year health guarantee; call or contact Platinum Goldies online for more information.
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mini labradoodle puppies for sale in sc - Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share! An aggressive pound dog pouncing on you can get quite ugly fast. Think broken bones, damaged muscles, deep lacerations, bruises, scars, and expensive medical bills. German Shepherds have a bite force of PSI pound-force per square inch, or the measure of strength that a bite inflicts on the victim , compared to humans with a bite force of PSI. In fact, the American Animal Hospital Association lists the German Shepherd as one of the six breeds with the most dangerous bites, based on a US study. Therefore, training your GSD to inhibit her bite is mandatory as it not only rewards you with a well-behaved dog, but also ensures your safety as well as the safety of the people around you. A crucial step towards correcting this nasty behavior is to first understand why German Shepherd puppies bite. Nipping or biting stems from various reasons. Understanding the root of the behavior will equip you with the proper corresponding countermeasures to correct it. German Shepherds Have a High Prey Drive One of the primary and distinct characteristics thatmake a German Shepherd a popular choice for police and military work is their high prey drive, coupled with their intelligence and high trainability. Take a look at the video below showing what GSDs were originally bred for. GSDs also have a natural inclination to chase almost everything that moves in their surroundings. They Are Teething As early as two weeks old, the baby teeth of pups start to come out. Puppies use their mouth to explore their environment, so nipping is to be expected. This behavior, called teething, can last until the puppy is six months old when all her adult teeth have started showing. Teething is very uncomfortable for puppies and can lead to sore gums, so puppies turn to anything to chew to soothe the discomfort. Unfortunately, this can include biting you! They May Be Taken From the Litter Too Early Young puppies learn to naturally inhibit their biting through socialization with their mother and their siblings. A puppy does not quite understand yet the force of her own bite unless she bites too hard and the recipient reacts by yelping out of pain. Taking a puppy away from her mother prematurely will therefore deprive her the chance to learn important socialization skills. As a rule of thumb, the American Kennel Club AKC recommends that you take home a puppy that is no less than eight weeks old. By this time, the puppy should have had ample time to interact with her playmates and learn bite inhibition. We concur that you should never take home a puppy that is less than 8 weeks old. In fact, more than half of the states in the U. This does not mean, however, that your puppy will completely stop nipping. As the new parent, it is your job to continue training the dog so that any subsequent bites should be gentler. For more on selecting the right German Shepherd puppy from a litter, including additional information on the proper age, what to look for in a puppy, and what to expect from ethical breeders, be sure to check out the 2 articles linked below: How to Buy a German Shepherd Puppy: A Step-by-Step Guide The Puppy Might Be Overstimulated, Fearful, or Anxious Sometimes puppies lose control of their bite because of overstimulation. Overstimulation can happen during playtime, or when your puppy has become cranky due to teasing. Your GSD puppy may also bite out of fear. Your puppy has but 2 defenses — to run away or to bite. If your puppy feels cornered, then biting is the defense that she will most often resort to. Because biting is normal canine behavior and GSDs are a breed that is more prone to it, the goal here is to inhibit the bite, not completely stop it. Do Start Training Early We keep mentioning throughout this site that training and socializing your GSD as soon as you get her home is crucial. Although training older dogs is not impossible, it is true that it is easier to train younger puppies, when habits are still new and can be easily corrected. If left untrained, adult German Shepherds can be prone to aggression towards other animals and humans, which can result in tragic situations. To get a better understanding of what is involved with these necessary steps, be sure to read these 2 excellent articles: German Shepherd Training Guide: All You Need to Know Do Use Toys as Alternative Items to Chew Puppies will nib on your hands or your feet especially during the teething stage. Train this behavior away by offering the puppy a toy whenever she starts biting your hand or your ankles. This teaches her what is acceptable to bite and which is not. It is good practice to always keep a chew toy nearby in anticipation of the biting behavior. She needs to understand that biting ends playtime and that it does not give her anything in return. In the Alpha Roll , the human pins down the dog on the floor on his side or back and holds that position to exert dominance. Besides, it has also been proven in many studies that dogs have very different behavior from wolves. Pinning your dog will cause him to freeze out of fear, which can also turn into aggression. It also teaches your dog that physical touch is something to be feared. Nobody wants to be punished by hand, not humans and certainly not dogs either. Do Reward Good Behavior Dog trainers and experts agree that positive reinforcement using rewards are highly effective in forming and keeping desirable behaviors as a puppy matures into an adult dog. If her nose touches your fingers without biting them, give her a treat and praise generously. Hold off the treat if she bites. Do this repeatedly until she associates the treat the reward with not biting your hand the good behavior. In fact, most dog bite cases in children occurred because of teasing! Instead, teach your child to be gentle with your pet , as even unintentional rough play can result in unwanted events. Dogs get cranky too, especially when they get hurt or feel that their privacy is being invaded. Never leave your child alone with your puppy unattended. Supervise their interactions at all times. Studies show that parents trust their dog around their kids too much that they overlook the signs that the dog is in distress. For tug games, keep in mind, however, that your dog must be calm and not overstimulated before playing. Otherwise, your puppy may get too serious and hold on to the rope too much. The AKC recommends that for breeds that are prone to aggression such as German Shepherds, tug-of-war can be safely carried out if the puppy knows you are in control and follows your commands. Once this has been established, a game of tugging can be used both as an exercise and as a reward for your dog. When playing, always remember to be gentle with tugging as your puppy still has baby teeth! By doing this, you are also socializing your puppy with other animals — an essential skill to learn for a well-rounded behavior. That being said, do not completely write off playing with your puppy! Playtime is still an excellent opportunity to bond with your dog, but make sure to keep it safe and fun by establishing boundaries. This method, however, is a matter of trial and error. Some puppies respond to this positively. On the other hand, many puppies get aroused by this and become even more aggressive. If you yelp and she stops biting without expressing any signs of aggression, the method has perhaps worked. You are then free to continue doing so until the puppy learns to stop biting hard. On the other hand, temper tantrums, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals , are characterized by a stiff body, lips pulled back to show teeth, and growling. Biting will be more forceful and painful, since the behavior is typically caused by fear or anger. A German Shepherd puppy may be more prone to displaying this behavior, especially around unruly children. Bite inhibition is crucial especially among German Shepherds, a breed that is widely reported to be the culprit of many dog bites in America. Bite inhibition is simply one of the many important skills that your GSD must learn during her training. It can spell the difference between gentle playing and aggressive biting that leads to serious injuries. Always remember that dogs have feelings, too. They are not perfect little angels that never get angry. Even the most well-mannered dog in the world will snap out of irritation.