parti standard poodle puppies for sale near me

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: Regular dog-walking increases social interaction for children—especially those who have just moved to a neighborhood and are feeling homesick for their former home. A child who might not want to go out into the neighborhood alone, feels that he or she has a purpose in walking the dog, and therefore can face unfamiliar faces or places more easily than when alone. Walking the dog could be the perfect way for a shy or awkward adolescent to meet new friends in the neighborhood. 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 .Did you know… Morgantown is closely tied to the Anglo-French struggle for this territory. Until the Treaty of Paris in , what is now known as Morgantown was greatly contested among settlers and Native Americans, as well as the British and the French. The treaty decided the issue in favor of the British, but Indian fighting continued almost to the beginning of the American Revolution. Zackquill Morgan settled the area about by establishing a homestead near present-day Fayette Street and University Avenue. On February 3, , the Virginia General Assembly enacted a municipal charter incorporating the city, now with a population of about , as Morgantown, Virginia. Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! They have been in the business for 25 years and strive to ensure that their dogs not only can be the best companions but can also assist in hunting. Keepsake Labs aims to breed healthy labradors that are capable of living a long life full of love and happiness. They offer high-quality purebred labradors for sale and provide puppy care services as well. With their extensive experience in the breeding world, they have created a strong reputation for themselves. One of the largest breeders in the US, Morgan Labradors is known for its commitment to customer service and providing high-quality puppies. They aim to breed English Labradors that are show champions and can compete in conformation, obedience, field, and other aspects of canine assistance. Morgan Labradors follow a stringent screening process for all queries they receive. They also provide adequate education on raising Labradors and offer ongoing support for any queries a new owner may have. They are a family-owned business that began its journey in with their first pup, Sampson. Since then, they have expanded to producing one to two litters annually, offering all three AKC-recognized Labrador colors. Brookeridge Labradors breed puppies with good temperaments. Their pups are tested for genetic disorders and undergo testing eyes through CERF, hip, and elbow conformation. Their hearts get tested using color echograms as well. They strive to produce healthy, intelligent, strong, and athletic dogs with great personalities. They raise dogs with impeccable temperaments and health. Whispering Pines Farm also follows ethical breeding practices and provides personalized care. The happiness my Labradors experience everyday is worth every investment into the training. She assessed the situation immediately and began the process.She assessed the situation immediately and began the process of training both Specks and Alec to work together. For anyone interested in a high quality pure bred Labrador Retriever, this is the only breeder I would trust! My German.My German Shepherd, Cairo, is the perfect gentleman and is well-behaved. He is complimented everywhere we go. You can tell that Sandy loves dogs and they love her. Dan Hopkins T Dan Hopkins My biggest concern going into training was if we would hit it off with you and we absolutely enjoyed working with you and we look forward to more training in the future. As a testimonial goes, three speaks volumes to my commitment to Red Barn Ranch and Labradors as well as Sandy's commitment to me. Yes, the breeder's commitment to the client; it is a relationship, not a transaction when buying one or three of these puppies. The beginning of my story is similar to many - after the passing of my first Labrador, I grieved. When my heart and mind were ready, I began to research the purchase of my next black Labrador. I met and talked with a couple of breeders, none fitting what I wanted, none making the connection. One breeder kindly recommended I pay a visit to Sandy Stokes in Charles Town, WV; she just happened to have black Labrador puppies soon to be ready for their new homes. The day I made the trip I was not ready to welcome a puppy into my life; however, God and Puppy 3 had a different plan! When the gate opened, Gracie, along with her eleven puppies made their way out; it was Puppy 3 along with the special meeting with the Stokes that changed my mind, my heart and my life - forever! For Sandy Stokes the Red Barn Ranch and Labradors breeding is not a part-time or side job operation; it is who she is and what she does - full time, everyday! Sandy has been there to help me and other owners with training

Nothing will make your poodle happier than to play you in a friendly and stimulating game of tug-of-war. The SnakeBiter is an excellent variation on rope toys for dogs that are aggressive chewers , which most poodles are. This rope is thick and solid, allowing your dog to go to town without destroying a favorite toy. Instead, our Invincible Snakes come with multiple squeakers for multiple rounds of toss and tug fun even when.Do not leave toys with unsupervised pets. Remove and replace toy if damaged. We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. The Outward Hound brand is especially good for poodles because of the durability of their squeaky toys. Although this plush squeaky toy is small and light, the construction is extremely tough and will withstand extensive chewing and tearing. Apparently, in some cases, the squeaking device will remain functional even when the fabric has been punctured. Ultra Ball ChuckIt! Ultra Ball, Medium 2. Check out a variety of our pet toy products such as frisbees, perches and mirrors for birds, prey wand toys for cats, plush toys, Checkout Chuckit for ball launchers, bouncy balls, frisbees, indoor dog.Ultra Ball is one of our favorite designs on the market for ball toys for poodles. In addition, these balls come in bright and contrasting colors that will be easy for your poodle to see. Does your dog get bored quickly? Included with our dog puzzle toys are helpful tips and tricks to assist in optimal training; also, never leave toys with unsupervised pets - no toy is indestructible We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. In this interactive game, treats are hidden in various compartments as a challenge for your dog. Different shapes like cones and circles cover the chambers, and dogs must lift the covers off instead of pushing them aside to access the treats. The rubber grip keeps the activity tray in place, and the toy is dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. Flying Squirrel ChuckIt! PET TOYS: Get ready for bonding fun with your dogs cats Check out a variety of our pet toy products such as frisbees, perches mirrors for birds, prey wand toys for cats, plush toys, light-up.For additional usability, this toy can float—be sure to bring this with you if you ever bring your poodle out to a pool or lake. For extensive games of fetch, this tough and aerodynamic toy will keep your energetic dog happy. Goughnuts tough dog toys are long lasting and will keep your dog busy.Our super durable dog toys are nearly indestructible, but if your dog manages to damage them, Poodles can be downright obsessive with their chewing, and this ring-shaped chew toy can be a great solution for protecting your shoes and furniture. The thick rubber will last for a long time, and a convenient red safety indicator inside the toy will alert you when it has become too worn down to be safe for your dog. Both Cockapoos and Poodle are active dogs that enjoy outdoor play What to Look for in Poodle Toys While these are our top picks for great toys for poodles, there are plenty of dog toys out there that work well for poodles. Key elements to look for include durability, interactivity, and opportunities for social play. No matter what toys you buy, poodles are fun-loving and curious animals who, above all, just want to spend time with you. Happy playing! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. This personalized art print is a unique and thoughtful gift for any Toy Poodle lover. The print highlights the breed history, traits, and characteristics that make the Toy Poodle stand out. The print is perfect for dog lovers of all ages and genders. It makes a sentimental and heartwarming gift for a fur birthday or to welcome a new puppy. Plus, the stylish print is made to work well with all existing home decor, making it a great housewarming gift to match any home. Buying Guide When it comes to finding the best toys for poodles, there are a few things to keep in mind to ensure that you are choosing the right product for your furry friend. Here are some key features to consider when your are buying best toys for poodles Size One of the most important factors to consider when choosing a toy for your poodle is the size. You want to make sure that the toy is appropriately sized for your dog. If the toy is too small, it could pose a choking hazard, while a toy that is too large may be difficult for your poodle to play with. Look for toys that are specifically designed for small or medium-sized dogs. Material The material of the toy is also an important consideration. Look for toys made from high-quality materials, such as rubber or nylon. Avoid toys that are made from cheap, flimsy materials that can easily break or tear. Functionality Consider what your poodle likes to do when choosing a toy. Some poodles love to play fetch, while others prefer toys that they can chew on. Look for toys that are designed for the specific activities that your poodle enjoys. Interactive Features Toys with interactive features can provide great mental stimulation for your poodle. Look for toys that have hidden treats, puzzles, or other interactive elements that will keep your poodle entertained and engaged. Safety Finally, safety should always be a top priority when choosing a toy for your poodle. Avoid toys with small parts that could be swallowed or toys with sharp edges that could cause injury. Always supervise your poodle when playing with toys to ensure that they are playing safely. By considering these factors, you can choose the best toys for your poodle that will provide hours of fun and entertainment while keeping them safe and healthy. I have a miniature Poodle named Olive. Pets are my passion and I love to share knowledge through writing blogs. About Us I'm Emma Olson, and love dogs so much, especially poodles. Pets are my passion and I work in the world of corporate pets. I worked at three different pet stores for about six years total and now volunteer at my local animal rescue. I love animals very much! While waiting for their forever homes, I like to volunteer to provide them with care in my spare time. The 6 Best Types of Toys for a Poodle Overview If you think of dog toys as needing to serve as tools to meet a Poodle's needs, you may be surprised at how amazingly helpful they can be. The right toys can help a great deal with everything from teething woes, to negative behavior associated with boredom.In addition, toys can serve as a method of creating a closer bond with your Poodle, encourage activity in an otherwise sedentary dog, and even boost a Poodle's brain power. Here we will take a look at the 6 types of toys every Poodle should have to meet a wide variety of canine needs. Teething begins by 3 to 4 months old and lasts until the 7 to 8 month mark. During this time, there are incredible amounts of itching and most puppies feel some level of discomfort. This causes an overwhelming need to chew to soothe those teething woes. For these reasons, one of the best things that you can do is find the right toys for your teething Poodle puppy. Qualities of effective teething toys: The oral sensations that a puppy feels can move from moment to moment. Discomfort waxes and wanes. And itching can come in waves. So, toys need to be very versatile. The best toys will have: A variety of surface textures. Cloth, rope, and hard rubber should be available to meet chewing urges at any one particular time. Rope toys are especially helpful, as the twisted strands are good 'scratchers'. Small nubs. This is of particular importance; tiny nubs work to massage gums which helps the pup feel better. A puppy needs to be able to manipulate the toy into different parts of his mouth. Proper sizing. This is most relevant to toy Poodles, since many dog teething toys are sized too big for a tiny toy's mouth. If a Poodle puppy cannot instantly find relief, he may move onto something else.Recommended teething toys: Below are our 1 most recommended toys for Poodle pups that are in the throes of teething. The first 3 are for toy Poodles, though larger options can be found for miniatures and standards. The Nylabone is just one example of great teething chews that are flavored to entice a puppy to mouth them and come in a wide range of sizes, to accommodate all Poodle varieties. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. And if this describes your Poodle, no doubt you have had a hard time finding the right toys that will stand up to aggressive chewing. A dog's urge to chew is not limited to toys; with this type of drive, nothing is off limits. If a Poodle is not happy with his toys, one of two things will happen: 1 the dog will move on to other objects in the house, which is not only destructive but also unsafe or 2 the dog will become irritable and stressed as he's unable to satisfy his urges. Qualities of the best toys for strong chewers: To meet your Poodle's needs, the goal will be to provide fun chew toys that are specifically designed to handle aggressive chewers. While no toy is literally indestructible, some come very close. The toy will need to: Be able to stand up to high bite force. Be safe - A great feature to look for is a color indicator that the toy has been chewed down too far. Some toys are guaranteed, meaning that if a color starts to show, you'll get a free replacement. Fun - If it does not have the right texture and pliability to feel good in a Poodle's mouth, it'll be of no use. Recommended toys for Poodles that are super aggressive chewers: For this, both Kongs and Doughnuts are the two best options, with Kongs being the best for toy Poodles images are below. Kongs are great because they come in a wide range of sizes that will be appropriate for toys, minis, and standards. These are color coded, with pink and blue for puppies, red for 'normal' adult chewers, and black is reserved for the strongest chewers. In other words, a puppy would never be able to bite down on a black Kong dog toy and an aggressive chewer could tear up a pink one. The 'classic' Kong is designed to be filled with treats or kibble, which draws a dog to it and encourages him to stay focused. If your Poodle likes to chew, but has not shown a history of shredding toys to bits, you may find that the Kong 'minimally stuffed' chew toys are well received. These are also great because they come in all sizes from small to large. Goughnuts are colored coded as well, with yellow, orange, and green for strong chewers PSI and black reserved for professional grinders at a whopping PSI. What is great about these is that they are guaranteed. Each has red in the middle. If you see even a tiny spot of red, you may return the toy for just the cost of shipping out a new one. There are 3 sizes as well; but these will be a bit too large for most toy Poodles. Toys are shown below. And in this sense, thinking of toys as 'stay busy' tools can make a huge difference in your Poodle's happiness level. When a puppy or dog is just sitting around without anything to do, he will reach a limit where boredom turns into frustration. And where monotony turns into depression. If your Poodle has been too bored, you may not even realize it until you hand over a super-fun, interactive toy and see him perk up. Alternatively, some Poodles are very expressive about how they feel. It must be noted that regular exercise plays a role in this as well. If your Poodle is not taken out twice per day for at least minute sessions, even the best of toys may not fix his woes. So, a good balance of getting outside for walks and offering the right toys during down-time is the best fix. Qualities of the best toys to fix boredom and keep a Poodle occupied: You'll want toys that will be perfect for both when a Poodle is home alone and also when you are home but cannot interact with your Poodle at the moment. These toys should: Allow a Poodle to play fully independently; you will not need to do anything else other than point out the toy if you are there. Call out to the puppy or dog. A huge aspect is that the toy interacts with the dog. In this way, playing is a two-way street. The dog noses the toy, the toy responds. The dog chews the toy, the toy reacts. This type of element can keep a dog busy for a long time, basically until he's completely tuckered out. Recommended 'stay busy' toys for Poodles: There ares some incredibly fun options. The Babble Balls toys are out of this world; these are super interactive toys that can keep a puppy or dog amused and busy for hours. There are 3 sizes small for toys, medium for minis, and large for standard Poodles. Also, there are two fun types. One lets out animal noises. So, as a Poodle touches the toy, engaging sounds like pigs, frogs, bears, birds, even other dogs speak to him. There are 20 different animal sounds in all. The other is just as wonderful. It lets out funny phrases such as 'Come here, puppy! There are 20 amusing, encouraging phrases in all. For both of these, the toys automatically shut off when not in use, so the batteries do not run out. The Look Who's Taking line of toys is super fun as well. There are over 15 different types of stuffed animals, and each one makes a corresponding animal noise. These are good sized quality toys that stand up to daily playing. The size of these toys range from 5" the baby chick to 7" the cow and a bunch in between. There is a parrot, frog, rooster, monkey, goat, lobster, and more. These toys are shown below. These serve two purposes in one swoop. As an added benefit, if you place your Poodle's food in this sort of toy on days that you are not home, it helps prevent bloat, a dangerous health condition fast eating is a common trigger , which is a top concern for standard Poodles and is always something to be aware of no matter what type or size dog you have. Qualities of great treat-release toys: There are a few aspects to keep in mind. For this type of toy to do its job, it should: Hold in treats enough that they are not released too easily, but at the same time allow a Poodle to smell them in order to trigger a response. Be designed to work with a variety of different dog treats so that you are not forced to purchase additional treats. Be made with safe materials. Be durable to stand up to daily use. Be easy to clean since you'll want to be able to rinse away food particles. Be sized correctly. It's not uncommon for owners of toy Poodles to have trouble finding treat dispensing toys for their tiny dogs, so for these Poodles, it must fit the needs of dogs 10 lbs. Recommended treat dispensing toys for toy, mini and standard Poodles: There are some great options for all Poodles images below. Busy Buddy makes two treat release toys. The barnacle toy is perfect for toy Poodles, even puppies. It is composed of 3 tiny separate spheres, so toy Poodle can easily mouth onto one of them at a time. If you like the looks of this one, but don't have a toy Poodle, no worries.The other type is the twist sphere, which is adjustable, so you can control how easy or hard it is for your Poodle to get to the treats. This comes in small for dogs 8 to 20 lbs. The IQ Treat Ball is a great toy for toy Poodles on the larger end, minis and standards; this is available in both 3 and 4 inch diameters. It's a neat little sphere that is adjustable and releases food as it's nudged which encourages a dog to move. The Bob-A-Lot is a good-sized toy that is best suited for mini and standard Poodles. This has a large chamber that holds a full meal, and its bright color and wobbly movements make eating fun. Distress and even panicking when owners are away is referred to as separation anxiety, and this is not uncommon with dogs. In fact, it may be even more so with breeds like the Poodle due to their instinctive sensitivity and close human bonding. So, while all toys are important in their own way, perhaps the one type that can make the most dramatic impact on a Poodle is a companion toy. These will mimic a living creature to become an instant friend. With this, a dog is no longer alone. In addition, it would be remiss to not mention webcam devices that allow you to interact with your Poodle when you're not there. These are quite amazing, though are not fitting for those on a tight budget. Qualities of best companion toys: There's no competition here and there's no comparing. The very best ones are Smart Pets; these are good-sized quality stuffed animals that emit a rhythmic, soothing heartbeat. This alone instantly swoops away heavy feelings of isolation. In addition, is an option to send out a comforting warmth. This is as close as you can get to giving your Poodle a companion without obtaining another dog, and these are just marvelous. Qualities of the best pet webcams: Not very long ago, there were some sparse choices for this; however, the features where quite limited. Now, there's some truly amazing devices. While these can be a bit pricey, if you really want to go all out and come the absolute closest you can to being with your Poodle when you're not with him, the webcam will: Have two-way audio so that you can both speak to your Poodle and hear any barking in response. Have a wide-angle view and night vision, so that you can clearly see your puppy or dog at all times and under any sort of lighting though it is always recommended to keep lights on for a dog that's home alone. Easily sync to your smartphone Hold a good number of treats, so that the interaction can be frequent and extended. Toss treats out with a tap on your phone, and at a good distance to make it clear that you're playing with your Poodle. Our 1 recommend companion toys and a super-neat interactive webcam are below. If you don't see the images, try a refresh. On mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. It's what they live for. So, no matter how busy the day may get, the best thing you can do for your Poodle is to make time each day to play. It can be as little as 15 minutes, and it will mean the world. And do not discount older adults and even seniors. The need to hold onto bonds is stronger than ever. However, it's not uncommon for a Poodle to need something colorful and interesting to get really involved with a game of fetch. You'll want it to be durable and importantly the right size so that your Poodle can easily mouth it. Another option that is great to play on rainy days are puzzle games. With this, you work together as a teacher and student. You'll teach your Poodle how to nose levers and paw buttons to find hidden treats. There is something to be said about the Poodle ranking 2 in intelligence ; this is indeed a super smart breed. However, dogs are as smart as opportunity allows.For these, you'll want to pay attention to the level typically 1,2 and 3 or beginner, intermediate, and advanced so that the puzzle is doable. Recommended super-fun fetch toys and a fun puzzle game are below this one is level 2, but there are lots of options. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. What is a small dog toy and does your pup need one? At first, this might not seem like a compelling reason to buy one, until you consider this: Most dog products are made for medium to large-sized dogs. And because of this, small breeds like Shih Tzus and Pugs need their own special dog toys. A German Shepherd, for example, is basically a fur-covered ball of muscle. Compare this with your Chihuahua. Yep, two fingers are all you need to out-muscle these tiny pups. This is important to consider as some toys, especially hard-rubber chew toys designed for aggressive chewers, are surprisingly heavy. In fact, the heaviest dog toy we reviewed weighs a whopping 2 pounds. Far too heavy for a small dog to lift. The size of the toy also makes carrying it difficult. See that couch in your living room? We both know that your mini pup loves to climb up. Like Simba from the Lion King, perched atop pride rock, your dog has an amazing view of the entire room — much better than the sight of your ankles while he is down on the floor. What better place to play with your favorite dog toy? To you and me, sitting on a couch is simple. Small dogs have small mouths. It is for this reason that any toy you buy your dog should be small enough to carry easily. Dragging that oversized toy around your home is going to get old, and your tiny pup will quickly look for something more fun to do. And, it goes without saying that the toy you give to your pocket-sized pup needs to be durable. Toy Chihuahuas have small-dog syndrome. I am convinced that if Chihuahuas were the same size as a large dog, they would be the most aggressive dog on Earth. Those tiny jaws are capable of dishing out some serious damage. Plush toys, in particular, are easily shredded by the sharp teeth of small dogs. In fact, any toy that breaks is particularly dangerous to small breeds. You see… Small dogs also have small mouths and airways. A small piece of rubber or torn fabric from a broken toy can easily become a choking hazard. As always, if you notice that your pocket-sized pup has broken a toy, dispose of it immediately. Small dog toys are designed to address all these issues. Safe, light-weight and easy-to-carry, these toys are the perfect present for the miniature pooch in your life. Best toys for small dogs It might surprise you to learn that there are hundreds of small dog toys available to choose from. While some are amazing, others are downright terrible. Today, I share the best of the best. The small dog toys that outclassed all others. It was tough, but we narrowed the winners down to just 6 toys — each unique in their own way. Best squeaky toy for small dogs Squeaky Fun! Written by: Casey Estorque November 29, Poodles and poodle mixes are some of the most popular dog breeds across the globe, yet, they are often stereotyped as prim and proper pups. Need help entertaining these incredibly intelligent and active dogs? In , Dr. Stanley Coren ranked Poodles as 2 of breeds according to intelligence. But depending on who you ask, they are sometimes considered the brightest breed of them all! This intelligent pup craves mental stimulation and easily grows bored. Durable Chew Toys Poodle parents may be well aware that these pups love. Prevent destructive chewing behavior with durable Super Chewer Toys! This way, your Poodle will have hours of endless entertainment. Plus, they come in super fun designs that will delight both you and your dog! Fetch And Tug Poodles were originally bred as hunting dogs. Though it may be hard to imagine your furry princess leading a hunting trip, Poodles still have a strong instinct for retrieving. Ignite and delight their instincts with a game of fetch! Tug Toys are a great option for fetch since the rope handles are optimal for throwing. Gone are the days of clutching slobbery tennis balls — yuck. Poodles are very eager to please and connect with their humans, so their favorite playtime activity is one that involves you! Then why not give BarkBox a try? Have some lingering questions on how to find the best toys for medium dogs? Side note: I do not recommend getting rope toys to play tug-o-war with your dog. In my opinion, they are quite dangerous for two reasons. First, they tend to fray easily, leaving behind strands of string that might cause digestive obstruction in your dog if swallowed. Bottom line? Ready now? Endorsed by veterinarians globally, serving as a secure plaything for active dogs. Its ability to keep their dog busy and anxiety-free, without any choking hazards, makes it a must-have. Another reviewer, owning a mini Aussie doodle, praised its endless chewing appeal. Although there are a few concerns about its long-term durability, most owners agree on its value for money. Includes various obstacles and steps to keep dogs mentally stimulated. Promotes positive play habits, reduces anxiety, and redirects destructive behavior. This interactive dog toy made by Outward Hound has garnered over , positive reviews among dog owners, myself included. It makes for a super enjoyable and stimulating play time for intelligent and playful dogs! Small breed owners appreciate its suitability for their pups, and its versatile design with rounded plastic corners ensures safety during play. Many users also appreciate the option to freeze treats inside the toy and its easy-to-open lids. However, it may not be the best choice for heavy chewers. Overall, this toy presents a fun and mentally engaging option for dogs, especially those of smaller breeds. Classic Dog Ball Launcher Upgrade the game of fetch with an interactive dog toy that enhances throwing speed and distance effortlessly. Designed to extend reach and keep hands slobber-free while reducing bending over to pick up muddy balls. Compatible with 2. This toy by ChuckIt has received lots of positive reviews from users on the internet. One user, initially skeptical, discovered the value of the product for their ball-obsessed lab. They invested in multiple ChuckIts and found it helped maintain their arm strength during playtime. While some experienced minor issues with slobbery balls sticking inside the cup, it was easily avoidable by removing and replacing the ball. The Chuckit itself remained durable, and users found cost-effective alternatives by using standard tennis balls. Play fetch and interact with your canine companion during pet exercise with this lightweight dog play toy that features a unique S-shape design. This recyclable puppy chew toy also includes a manufacturer Love It Guarantee against damage. Easily clean this dog tug toy for chase and fetch games by adding it to the top rack of your dishwasher. The Zogoflex from West Paws has garnered positive reviews from more than 5, satisfied dog owners on the internet and I personally own one too. For high-energy pups keen on chewing, fetching, and tug-o-war, this toy comes highly recommended. Even for tough chewers like Labradors, the toy impressively withstands their play, making it a worthwhile investment. Though not the cheapest option but still very reasonable! Each unstuffed toy has 3 independent squeaker zones for enhanced entertainment for small and medium dogs. Soft and durable puppy toys, machine washable for easy cleaning, ensuring longevity and fluffiness. In this pack, you will find a set of three squeaky animals. For less squeak-focused dogs, it provides enjoyment, and the lack of internal fluff prevents mess. However, some users found the squeakers not durable enough, losing their sound after moderate usage. Aggressive chewers, quickly destroyed the toy, ripping open the head and potentially posing a risk if the squeaker is swallowed. While some dogs may enjoy these toys, they are not suitable for aggressive chewers or those who prioritize squeaking ability. Lightweight, durable, weather, and water-resistant for long-lasting performance. Ideal for medium and large breeds, measuring 12 inches long. Ensured safety with rigorous testing for endless family fun. In my experience, this toy has a number of uses, for example as a tug-o-war toy or for a game of fetch. However, I find that it is most useful when used in the pool. Boxer owners found it to be one of the best toys, standing the test of time even during tugging and chewing sessions. However, for other dogs like a large retriever, it remains durable, perfect for fetch and retrieve games with excellent flotation. Overall, this toy showcases durability and versatility, catering to different playstyles and breeds. Made from durable nylon and heavy-duty rubber to withstand strong chewers. Interactive toy to cure boredom, promoting long-lasting play and calming anxiety for dogs over 6 months old. This particular toy features rotating soft brushes and treat rings, and has garnered mixed but generally positive reviews from internet users. While some dogs tend to destroy it quickly, its effectiveness when new keeps users repurchasing it. Take note though, it requires supervision, as dogs may dismantle it, and there are concerns about choking hazards and cracked plastic pieces. For some dogs, the toy provides extended playtime, with treats keeping them occupied for at least half an hour. I think this will be super beneficial for poodle owners whose dogs finish treats too quickly. Perfect for beginners, helping dogs learn tricks, commands, and strengthening the bond. Includes 1 square collapsible tunnel, 4 weave poles, and an adjustable jump, offering multiple ways to play. Convenient and portable with a lightweight set and a storage bag for easy home use. I love this kit! Be aware though, that the kit is made up of a few different parts which you have to purchase separately. The puppy gets particularly obsessed and even whines if she seesit being kept away. The toy has proven to be durable and has a good length, allowing an owner to use it even while standing on the couch. Soft material designed for teething puppies. Textured chew toy with bristles for teeth cleaning and plaque prevention. Features delicious bacon flavor loved by dogs. A few of the stories that really struck me was a week-old puppy that took a liking to these chew toys, keeping him engaged and relieved teething discomfort. The toys prevented destructive behavior and proved effective for the teething phase. One owner liked it so much that he repurchased it multiple times for their now 2-year-old pup, who still loves the toy. While it eventually breaks down with heavy use, the toy has been durable for a few months with occasional chewing. Putting it in the freezer also worked well for some dogs, soothing their gums during teething. One of the top additions if you are a puppy owner, in my opinion. Eases anxiety during transitions and stressful events like fireworks and thunderstorms. Easy to use, made from certified safe and durable fabric, and machine washable heartbeat and heat pad removable. This has got to be one of the most highly-rated cuddling toys for dogs, whether they are adults or puppies. Just go read the reviews online! And I love it for many reasons. For new puppy owners, it proved beneficial in comforting their pups during crate training, helping them sleep through the night. It is also super durable. Why are Play and Toys Important to Poodles? Provide physical exercise Play and toys are important to poodles since they serve as the gateway for these dogs to engage in physical exercise. The time your dog spends playing with its toys keeps them moving which exercises and stretches their muscles. The exercise also helps them maintain a healthy weight, and it could even boost their cardiovascular health! Help stimulate the mind We all know that Poodles are smart dogs, constantly out and about thinking of what better to do during their free time. Letting your poodle play with toys will surely keep their intelligent minds busy. If you can see your poodle behaving bothered and looking bored, try giving him an interactive puzzle toy for dogs. Boost social skills Play and toys let poodles interact with their dog owners. Often, poodles will bring toys to their owners as a way of engaging in play. This simple act also makes poodles friendlier and more playful, which makes them even more adorable! There are teething toys out there that are even recommended by vets, especially if the poodle is still a teething puppy. Playing with chew toys and teething toys will also let your poodle remove plaque and tartar in his mouth on his own. No more constant messy toothbrushing! Hence when they get bored or anxious, they typically resort to destructive behavior. But with toys available for poodles to play with their boredom, anxiety, or stress can easily be handled. Yes, Poodles do need a wide variety of toys. You see, there are some poodles, especially the young ones, who need teething toys to alleviate their teething throes. Factors in Choosing Poodle Toys Size appropriate Poodles come in three sizes; standard, miniature, and toy poodle. Chew resistant Poodles are quite the chewers, I should say. Chew-resistant toys are widely available in pet stores and even in vet clinics. They are safer since no parts will be chewed off and swallowed by your dog. Many reputable manufacturers will indicate the material they use, especially pet-safe ones. Interactive and mental stimulation It pays to consider if a toy can provide mental challenges and games that are interactive yet fun to play. When you do so, you give them the opportunity to stimulate their minds and keep them busy for hours. Products that are proven to be durable can save you more than just a few dollars, but also the potential for loose parts to come off and pose a swallowing threat. No small parts This is really important to me — making sure that the toys for poodles have no small parts. Small parts can be torn off by your poodle, which it might accidentally swallow and choke on. Budget Having a dog can surely add a huge expense to your budget, and buying toys that are way too expensive is unwise especially if your dog will only play with them a few times. That said, I would prioritize safety and quality over anything else, and if money is indeed an issue, I rather wait to get a better one. However, some toys are durable enough to last a long time before getting destroyed. How many toys should I provide for my poodle? As a general guideline, I recommend having a variety of toys to keep your poodle mentally and physically stimulated. Start with toys and observe which types of toys your poodle enjoys the most. Rotate them regularly to keep them interesting and prevent boredom. Are some materials dangerous for my poodle? Yes, there are materials that are dangerous for your poodle, such as PVC and lead, both of which are toxic to dogs when exposed too often. Choose a reputable retailer and exercise extreme caution if you DIY your own dog toy. Why do poodles destroy their toys? Standard poodles typically destroy their toys because of their natural prey drive. But miniature and toy poodles usually destroy their dogs just out of boredom or anxiety. Regular brushing and visits to the vet are still needed. In Conclusion: Best Toys for Poodles I hope that this article has helped you in finding the right poodle dog toy and add a touch of spice to your life! Know someone who might benefit from this information? Please share this article with them. And do consider joining our community of responsible pet parents too! Share this post! Right now, I am still heavily involved in dog parenting duties, and it is my desire to share all our knowledge with fellow dog owners out there! Popular Posts. This is far from the truth. Poodles are athletic, friendly, and smart dogs. Poodles can be easily trained and are an eager breed. Poodles love to stay active and challenged. The right toy can be an effective and fun way to interact with your poodle. Without a doubt, my dog Angus enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I purchase for him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month for any size dog. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds are donated to local animal shelters. Check out the Barkbox website here to discover why Barkbox will make your dog as happy as mine. Toys are a great way to stimulate and encourage your poodle. It is essential to find the best toy for their stage of life. Ideally, one that they will enjoy and will help keep them active. Even though Poodles are associated with France, poodles were originally a duck hunter dog in Germany. Hunters wanted a dog that could swim and move well in the water. That is why poodles have their famous haircuts. They wanted them to keep their fur around their midsection for warmth but shave parts of the neck, legs, and tail to allow them to move better in the water. Poodles are known to be late bloomers, though, when it comes to teething. Teething could last longer than the eight-month mark. It is important to be patient with your teething poodle, and chew toys are a great help in this stage. Some qualities to look for in a teething toy for a poodle puppy include: Several types of surfaces for the teeth to experience. Knobs, grooves, ropes, and different materials can help get just the right stop when it comes to teething. A temperature element can be soothing. Freeze toys can be wet or cold can help your teething puppy find relief. Make sure the Teething Toy is the correct size. You want the toy to be big enough that it will be safe to chew on but not too big where your puppy will struggle to use it. The following two puppy teething toys are great options for your poodle puppy to have fun and find some comfort for their sore gums. Nylabone Puppy Starter Packs Puppy Chew Toys This pack of chew toys is great for a poodle puppy because it has a toy for different teething stages and comes with a healthy treat. The toys are durable and have a great flavor your dog will love. The different ribbons and elements can also entertain your poodle as they play. However, it can be impossible to be engaging with your pet at all times. Sometimes you have to leave for work or errands, and your poodle is left to entertain themselves. If poodles are left too often on their own without any motivation to be active, they can become bored. Boredom can lead to depression in dogs. Toys can be a great help to keep your poodle entertained when you are not home or able to play with them. Make sure these toys are simple enough that they can be figured out by the dog on its own. The Babble Ball can provide hours of play for your dog to keep them entertained. It will also turn itself off when your dog has left it alone. It comes with over 20 sounds so that your poodle will not get bored. The more they interact with the toy, the more it will talk back to them. If you see that your poodle is destroying things while you are away, they might be suffering from separation anxiety. A more interactive approach with the dog owners while they are left alone might be helpful to stop some more destructive behaviors. This pet camera has 2-way audio so you can talk with and comfort your poodle while you are not there. It will alert you when your dog is barking. Separation Anxiety in Poodles Poodles can experience anxiety if they are left alone for just one hour or all day. There are some signs to look for in your poodle to determine if they have separation anxiety. This can happen in any age of your poodle, sometimes puppies will outgrow this phase, but it can also be a problem among older poodles. Signs of separation anxiety include: Barking continually Destroying things around the house Depression Acting out or out of control when you are leaving the house Extreme excitement when you return Increased number of bathroom accidents Along with making sure your poodles have plenty of toys to keep them active while you are gone, here are other ways to help them with their separation anxiety. Leaving the television or radio on to something calming is a good idea. Poodles also like to watch the things that are going on around them, setting up an area for them by a large window or screen door can be helpful. Always make sure to leave a light on or allow or lots of natural light. A dark house can make your poodle feel lonelier. As mentioned earlier, many times, when dogs are bored, they often tend to chew more. Some tips to encourage approved chewing include. Redirect their chewing to a new toy. Poodles love new and exciting things, have two groups of toys, and only keep one group out at a time. Once you notice your dog getting bored with those toys, swap them for the other group. Keep things exciting. If your poodle is not interested in playing, try making a game. Poodles love social interaction. Making it a contest to find their chew toy might get them more excited about their chew toys. Let them not what things are not acceptable to be chewed. If your poodle continues to chew on non-chew toys like furniture, you can spray those things with a chew-deterrent spray. Here are some great durable chew toys to help your poodle redirect their chewing: 1. With three different toys, you can give your poodle a variety and switch things up to combat boredom. The different textures, shapes, and flavors will help keep your poodle entertained and chewing on these for hours. It has different textures, the rope, knobs, and tube center to keep your poodle engaged. It is durable and safe to chew. It can also be used as a training or fetch toy. Having plenty of durable chew toys can also help to combat other negative behavior your poodle might be displaying. Poodles are known to be friendly, well-tempered dogs, but like any breed, they can begin to develop some more negative behaviors. It is important to recognize these behaviors and redirect them into positive behaviors. Most Common Behavioral Problems Among Poodles Hyperactivity— It is normal for poodle puppies to be hyper, and they usually grow out of this in the first year or two. If this behavior in your poodle continues, make sure you are providing them plenty of exercise. If they feel like you are angry or frustrated, they might act out in a more hyper mood. Try to remain calm around your poodle to help them emulate your calm spirit. Too clingy- Make sure your poodle is allowed to explore all approved areas of your house, this way, they know where they can most comfortable. Introducing your poodle to new environments and situations will help them feel more comfortable in different circumstances. Always make sure you are giving your poodle the attention they need. Quality time throughout the day with their owner will allow your poodle to feel safe and secure when they are left alone. Nipping- Poodles are not naturally aggressive, and all dogs nip a little in the puppy phase as they learn to play. If this action continues into adulthood, it is vital to train and teach your poodle that this behavior is not okay. Poodles respond best to positive encouragement. Marking territory If your poodle is marking their territory, they might be trying to assert their dominance in the household, leave a mating signal, be having a response to visitors, or it might even be a response to a new family member. It is crucial in this situation to establish yourself as the head of the family with your poodle. Let them know that you are the leader. You can do this by having them sit first before you give them their food or treats. Having them sit before you enter or leave a room is also helpful in letting them know you are in charge. Another way to help them stop marking is to get them spayed or neutered. It would help if you also cleaned your home with an enzyme cleaner. Soap and water will not get rid of the smell entirely and your poodle will continue to mark when they smell it. Growling- growling is different from barking and is something an owner needs to be aware of right away. Finding the reason for the growling is important—is your poodle in pain, scared, marking their territory, or being aggressive? It is important to identify the trigger so you can help change the situation. If your poodle has begun to grow aggressively, proper training right away is vital to stop the behavior before your poodle thinks that it is acceptable to behave like that. Jumping- It is common for poodles to jump up when they are saying hello or excited to see someone. If you have a bigger poodle, this could potentially cause a problem or even frighten your guests. It is also important to make sure you are helping your poodle release their extra energy in other ways, like walks throughout the day. Disobedience- Poodles are a highly intelligent breed. They are great problem solvers and good at learning commands. Poodle owners must train their poodles with commands and rules. If you find that your poodle is continually disobeying you, it is important to understand what might be triggering them. Poodles are emotional dogs, they might be frightened or lonely, and that could be causing some of their disobedience. Understanding why they might be disobeying will help you find the right steps to take to get them back on track. Poodle Play Together Toys Dogs, especially poodles, love human interaction and contact. Poodles are athletic and smart dogs and can be easily trained. Finding a good toy that will help you interact with your poodle is a great way to show them your love and affection. It is best to find a durable toy that is easy for them to fit in their mouth when looking for a toy to play with your poodle. Hartz Dura Play Ball Size: Small Pack of 2 If you have a toy, small, or puppy poodle, these balls are the perfect size to play fetch with. They are durable and waterproof, so you can throw them in the water and let your poodle show off their swimming skills to retrieve it. They are also bacon-scented, which all dogs love! Tug a war is always a favorite game among poodles. These toys are strong and durable, and your poodle will love playing a game of fetch or tug of war with one of these many shapes. Poodles and Exercise I mentioned many times how much energy poodles have and the importance they stay active. There are many other reasons for proper exercise other than just behavioral benefits. Exercise can help lengthen your poodles life-span and combat many other health problems they might experience. Making sure your poodle exercises for the correct amount of time, on a daily bases, and at the right level can have the following benefits. Digestion help- prevents constipation and helps with regular bowel movements Increase of muscle tone which can prevent injuries Increase of blood circulation which helps combat cardiovascular disease Decrease the occurrence of UTI because it promotes healthy urination Slows down the development of arthritis Playing fetch is an excellent exercise to release quick amounts of energy, but regular walks with your poodle are the most beneficial type of activity for this bread of dog. Here is why: Walking is low impact and easy on their joints and muscles. All you need is a leash and harness. Puppy Poodles-The The duration of your walks or the amount of time you exercise your poodle depends on its size and type. For toy and miniature poodles, it is important not to over-exercise them as puppies. This can affect bone growth. Keeping walks shorter and at a slower pace for these small puppies is important Adults Poodles-As your poodle reaches adulthood, you can increase your walk time and pace. Most adult poodles need about 60 minutes of walk time a day, and it is best if this is done in two 30 minute sessions or three 20 minute ones. Senior Poodles-Even as your poodle reaches his or her senior years, it is vital to keep up their walking routine. Fresh air is known to help their moods. Just make sure to decrease the duration and pace of your walks. Walking Poodles in Different Weather Conditions Whether it is hot or cold outside, weather can affect your desire or ability to walk your poodle. Try morning and cooler evening walks. Always bring water and take a water break in the shade. Protect their nose with sunscreen. In the summer, swimming is another excellent exercise for your poodle. They are great swimmers, and it is an excellent low-impact activity. Make sure you wash their coat off with shampoo afterward, and if you are in an area with deeper water, a doggie life vest is always a safe option. Cold Weather Again, protect those paws. Paw wax or no-slip paw show to keep those paws warm Dress you and your poodle appropriately. A vest or sweater can help keep your poodle warm during those colder winter walks. Protect their noses from getting chapped with a nose butter. If it is just too cold to go outside, make sure to play and give your poodle plenty of playtime in the house. Playing fetch and letting them run a little more in the house will help them get out their energy. Best Treat Toys for Poodles Poodles love treats, and treats can be a useful training tool. They can also be a motivator to play and help keep your poodle active. Some qualities of a good treat toy include: Capacity-It can hold a good amount of treats. You do not want to have to refill it after only a few minutes of play. Variety-It can hold many different sizes of treats. Difficulty— It is not too easy for your poodle to get the treat out of it. Strong-You definitely want it to be durable. Size-make sure the size fits the size of your poodle. Poodles come in many sizes, so making sure the toy is appropriate for their size is important. These are some great options for treat toys for poodles: 1. Depending on the size of your poodle, you can pick the size that will fit them best. It is durable and machine washable. The unique shape of this toy will provide your poodle with extra entertainment because they will not know which way the toy will bounce. This toy is great for stuffing all different kinds of treats inside, and it can even be frozen before play to add an extra level of excitement. Outward Hound Ottosson Puzzle Brick Dog Toy Not only will this toy dispense a treat to your poodle, but it will also exercise their mind. Poodles are highly intelligent, and it is important to also stimulate their minds and keep them thinking. Puzzle games that dispense treats are a great way to accomplish this. This puzzle game can help reduce boredom and destructive behaviors. It will make treat giving stimulating and interactive. This game is a level 2 puzzle game, so it will not be too easy for your smart poodle. It is hand washable and easy to clean. Keeping Your Poodle Happy and Healthy. The bond between you and your poodle can be very special. Poodles love affection and the attention of their owners. Through proper training, play, and exercise, you can establish a routine and lifestyle that will bring happiness and longevity to your poodle. Toys are a great way to interact with your poodle and provide them with fun. They can be used to help train and discipline your poodle. They can also help give your poodle comfort when you are not physically there. The most important thing is to find something that your poodle loves and will help increase their quality of living. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts. Pros Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! The ridges and nubs on the toy help clean teeth and prevent plaque and tartar buildup, promoting dental health from an early age. The toy is gentle enough to ease pain during the teething stage, and the savory chicken flavor encourages puppies to chew on the toy instead of destructive items around the house. However, the toy is not suitable for dogs over 15 pounds, and some reviewers reported small pieces coming off the toy. Overall, this is a great option for small puppies who need a gentle chew toy to help with teething. Size for puppies and small dogs,a dog that weighs less than 22 lbs,such as.Some toys have the bells,please pay more attention when they are playing toys and do not let your dog swallow these toys,just be sure to throw away.We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Overall, this set of toys is a great investment for any poodle puppy owner. The toys are made of high-quality TPR and soft cotton, making them sturdy and bite-resistant. They are also easy to clean, making them a convenient option for busy pet owners. The toys come in a variety of shapes and sizes, providing your puppy with a range of textures to chew on. One thing to keep in mind is that the colors of the toys may vary and are randomly delivered. Some of the toys also have bells, so be sure to supervise your puppy to prevent them from swallowing the toys. Additionally, the set is not recommended for dogs with sharp teeth or for dogs that like to fight over toys. It's great for Chihuahua.Unique Design Shape Toy for Boredom - Unique fruit shape with hollow seductive pineapple flavor and real texture surface, can attract the dog to chew and play. You can fill the teething toy with food.Improve Intelligence Training - This pineapple interactive dog toy can training dogs jumping, reaction ability. You can also use this pet toy to interact with dogs and play throw and fetch game, enjoy.To Esteemed Customers - Recently our pineapple dog toy by the malicious reviwe of others, these people deliberately bought our dog toy and destoryed it,then leave us one-star with images, please do.This toy is made from extremely durable bite-resistant natural rubber and is designed to withstand even the most aggressive chewers, making it great for Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, Corgis, and Poodles. Pros The unique fruit shape with a hollow seductive pineapple flavor and real texture surface can attract the dog to chew and play, making it a great small dog toy for boredom. The toothbrush-like design is helpful in freshening breath, stimulating gums, and reducing tartar and plaque buildup as your dog plays and chews away. The toy may be difficult to clean because of its unique shape and texture. The manufacturer provides a lifetime replacement guarantee or refund for their dear customers. Recently, the pineapple dog toy received some malicious reviews from others who deliberately bought the dog toy and destroyed it, then left one-star with images. However, the manufacturer has provided their own video, showing their own dog playing very happily. If you have any issues with the pineapple tough dog toy, please contact the manufacturer in time.

It is suitable for the teeth It is good for the liver. It provides adequate nutrition. It is rich in PUFAs. It is enriched with colostrum. It has a high fibre content. It contains glucosamine for maintaining bone health. It has omega fatty acids. It is easy on the gut. It is uniquely formulated for puppies. It is suitable for weight-watching. It is enriched with DHA. It is suitable for digestion. It helps muscle growth Best overall product: There are many dog food options for German Shepherds available in the market, and each of them has a unique formula and offers exciting benefits. It gives your dog a complete and balanced meal with the right amounts of protein, fats and fibre. It takes care of adequate muscle and bone growth, is easy to digest, and is good for their teeth. Best value for money: For just Rs. It is also great for their coat and keeps it shiny and soft. It promotes muscle development and is easily digestible. It has the perfect balance of vitamins and minerals. How To find the right fog food? We must give our pets proper nutrition with their food. A good diet is the best way to ensure a healthy dog. Dog foods for german shepherds must include the right quantity of proteins, fats and fibres. They should be a balanced meal to ensure good muscle growth, good gut health and a shiny coat. You must also ensure that the dog food provides adequate amounts of vitamins and minerals to make up a sound immune system. Since most dog foods come with flavour options, you can choose the ones your dog likes best and make their meals enjoyable. You may be interested in Product. Why do German Shepherd puppies need the best dog food? German Shepherd puppies need dog food designed for large breed puppies to ensure controlled joint and bone growth. This is because large-breed puppies are prone to certain health risks like hip dysplasia and other Orthopedic conditions. The best dog food for German Shepherds will ensure your puppy grows healthy, strong, energetic, and with lovely skin and coats. Nutritional requirements for German Shepherds puppies German Shepherd puppies require a balanced diet that contains four types of nutrients below. These ingredients will ensure that your pup grows and develops optimally for a longer quality of life. Proteins Proteins help the puppies in building up their body tissues. Proteins can be found in chicken, salmon, beef, lamb, eggs, and dairy. Fats Fats are important for healthy skin, fur, brain, and vision. The recommended fat level per dry matter basis is 8. Fats can be found in fish oil, chicken fat, and beef fat. Digestible carbohydrates Because puppies are incredibly energetic, they need digestible carbs to provide them with energy. Digestible carbohydrates can be found in rice, sweet potatoes, potatoes, and whole oats. Micronutrients In addition to these key nutrients, German Shepherd puppies also need micronutrients like calcium, phosphorus, DHA, and omega-3, and vitamin A. They also need fiber to promote digestion and bowel movement and clean water to help with bodily functions. For large dog breed only: Foods specially formulated for German Shepherd puppies: Veterinarian and pet advisor Dr. Choose a dog food that is specially formulated for German Shepherds puppies or large breed puppies can ensure your pups are getting the nutritional requirements at every stage of their growth. The opposite side is giving your pup the wrong food that may lead to serious growth and digestive problems. Things to consider before choosing dog food for German Shepherds puppies 1. Their growth Puppies may need different nutrients at different stages depending on their growth rate. For instance, a puppy in the weaning stage between three to four weeks will need more antioxidants which are found in foods containing Vitamin C and E. In contrast, a teething puppy will need wet dog food which is easily digestible food on its tummy to minimize intestinal upset. For instance, a younger puppy may have difficulty eating larger food pieces than an older puppy. Teething If your dog is teething, which starts at around three weeks, you may want to consider food that contains calcium like dairy and bone broth for strong and healthy teeth. On the other hand, if the dog has teething problems, wet food may be a better option than dry food until they recover. Alternatively, you add wet canned food to their kibble to make it soft and palatable. The body weight An underweight puppy has different dietary requirements from an overweight puppy. You do not want to underfeed or overfeed your puppy. Activity Level Puppies that are extremely active require foods high in carbohydrates to keep up their energy levels. If your dog is not as active, you want to keep the carbs down to avoid obesity. With all the many dry foods out on the market, it can be hard to choose the healthiest for your pups. Step 1. The Association of American Feed Control Officials developed nutrient profiles to establish minimum and some maximum nutrient concentrations for dogs and cats. These profiles are updated when new findings from research in pet nutrition become available. They provide practical guidance for pet food manufacturers. Adult Maintenance: Dog foods formulated for adult maintenance have the nutrients adult dogs need. Dogs over the age of one are considered adults, except for some large and giant breeds who do not fully mature until age two. You may see variations of these nutrient profiles on dog food packaging. Step 2. Read the food label The label is the most important thing you should check when deciding which puppy food to pick. Here are the 3 things you would like to read on the packaging: a. List of ingredients The list of ingredients should have the main ingredient as the first ingredient then followed by the rest according to their percentage. For instance, in the label below the first five ingredients, are chicken as the main ingredient, ground whole grain corn, chicken by-product meal, ground whole grain sorghum, corn gluten meal and dried plain beet pulp. Feeding guidelines This will show you how much food and how many times you should feed your puppy. Watch this video if you want to better understand the wording on a dog food packaging means: Step 3. Are there any claims of pups reacting to the food? Do the users recommend or warn against the food? Of course, you want to go with what the majority of the reviewers say. You can also check dogadvisor. Step 4. The vet is in a better place to advise on what type of food to go for or what ingredients to avoid. Best dry foods for German Shepherds Puppies There are hundreds of dog foods out there with fancy names and ingredients, which make it so hard for dog owners to find the right food for their pups. To help you narrow down your search, we asked a couple of vets to suggest the best dog food for German Shepherds puppies. Purina Pro Plan — For sensitive skin and allergies Why do we like it? This dog food is ideal for all large breed puppies weighing over 50 pounds, GSD included. It is specially formulated for puppies with sensitive skin and stomachs. It is made with real chicken, among other high-quality ingredients. This dry food has optimal calcium levels to promote proper joint and bone growth. It helps prevent forms of hip dysplasia. Ideal for German Shepherd puppies of all ages. Delicious dry food for large breed puppies like GSD. It is specially formulated for superior vision and healthy brain development. This is an all-natural dog food specially made for large-breed puppies of all ages. It is made with real, wholesome ingredients. Making the right food choice will ensure that your puppy grows healthier, stronger, and more energetic. Weaning for a GSD puppy should start at around 6 to 8 weeks while still maintaining nursing. Complete weaning should be from 8 weeks when the puppy is fed on puppy food only. How is puppy food different from adult dog food? Puppy food contains more protein and fats, and certain minerals than adult dog food to support their growing brain, vision, nervous system, immune system, bones, and joints. When should German Shepherd puppies transition to adult dog food? German Shepherd puppies should transition to adult dog food from 12 to 24 months. The transition should be gradual, and the puppy should be constantly monitored. More posts on feeding your German Shepherds Must read:. The main downside is that while Royal Canin is the most expensive kibble on our list, it also contains several grains and byproduct ingredients. We were hoping that the price meant higher quality ingredients, but Royal Canin seems to have abandoned whole foods for vitamin and mineral additives. Pros Designed specifically for German Shepherd puppies Smaller-sized kibbles for puppy teeth Protein blend to support digestion Balanced minerals for healthy bone growth Vitamin and antioxidant blend to support young immune systems Cons Some grains and byproduct ingredients 5. Blue Buffalo Wilderness Puppy Food Check Price on Amazon Blue Buffalo is a well-respected brand of dog food, and their reputation for quality is due in large part to their commitment to whole food ingredients. We love how much of the vitamins and minerals provided by this kibble come from whole foods like chicken, carrots, and sweet potatoes. Blue Buffalo does not go the quick and easy route of adding these nutrients later in the process, unlike other brands, and the finished product speaks for itself. However, German Shepherd puppies have notoriously finicky digestive systems. While being grain-free is helpful in that respect, this blend does not contain any other special formulations to support a healthy GI tract. It is extremely healthy, but also on the expensive side — so you may gamble and lose if your puppy has trouble digesting this kibble. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned chicken Grain-free, no byproduct ingredients Vitamins and minerals are mainly provided by whole foods and complete proteins Support for bone growth, immune system, joints, and cognitive functioning Cons No modification to support a sensitive digestion 6. This chicken and brown rice puppy blend contains no byproduct ingredients, multiple lean animal proteins, and only the highest quality grains. However, this food is moderately expensive and does not specifically cater to dogs with sensitive digestive systems. Better to try a grain-free brand first and keep this option as a backup. The ingredients are all high quality, but the variety of foods in this blend leaves something to be desired. Considering that it is made almost entirely from protein, grains, and beans this brand is rather expensive. There are no whole vegetables or fruits, so many of the vitamins and minerals are provided by additives. Added vitamins are not only harder to absorb than those from whole foods, but cheaper. What gives? Most importantly, the beans may be hard for a German Shepherd puppy to digest and lead to a variety of gastrointestinal upset. While the lamb could be a nice change for your pup, we recommend testing this kibble out in small amounts to gauge suitability for your dog. Pros Designed for large breed puppies The first ingredient is deboned lamb, second is chicken meal Only high-quality, whole grains Whole foods supply joint support Cons Few whole fruits and vegetables Contains beans and peas which may upset digestion 8. But upon closer consideration, you will see why this food is not a great choice for German Shepherd puppies. Though it has good proteins, this is another brand that gets almost none of its nutrients from whole fruits or vegetables. Pros Designed for large breed puppies First ingredient is chicken meal No artificial colors or preservatives Balanced minerals to support bone growth Cons The second, third, and fourth ingredients are all grain Very few whole fruits and vegetables 9. Eukanuba Large Breed Puppy Dry Dog Food Check Price on Amazon The Eukanuba Large Breed puppy food is another excellent example of a food that, while technically complete and balanced, does not have the healthful ingredients to make all those nutrients available to your dog. Besides a few good foods like chicken, fish oil, and chicken meal, this kibble is chock full of cheap grains and byproducts. It contains no whole fruits or vegetables, and most of the vitamins and minerals are additives. German Shepherd puppy bellies are particularly sensitive to poor quality ingredients and additives. And though they advertise a special, easy-to-digest prebiotic blend on the package, there is no evidence anywhere else to substantiate this claim. This is a question that many German Shepherd owners ask, as they want to make sure their beloved furry friend is getting all the nutrients they need. The good news is that there are plenty of healthy dog food options out there for German Shepherds. You should eat foods that include high-quality animal-based protein sources like lamb, beef, pork, chicken, fish, eggs, and legumes. In addition, the meal should be plentiful in fats, vitamins, and minerals. Are eggs good for German Shepherds? Yes, eggs are a great source of protein for German Shepherds. In fact, they are one of the healthiest foods you can feed your dog. Eggs are packed with nutrients that are essential for a German Shepherd's diet, including vitamins A, D, and E. They also contain omega-three fatty acids, which are important for a dog's coat and skin health. What is the best food for German Shepherds with allergies? If your German Shepherd has allergies, it's important to find a hypoallergenic best dog food for German Shepherds that will not trigger their symptoms. There are many brands of hypoallergenic dog food on the market that use alternative protein sources, such as duck or venison. These foods are often grain-free as well, which is ideal for German Shepherds with allergies. What is the best food for German Shepherds with sensitive stomachs? If your German Shepherd has a sensitive stomach, you'll want to find a dog food that is easy on their digestive system. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with sensitive stomachs. These foods often have limited ingredient lists and use easily digestible ingredients, such as chicken or potato. What is the best food for German Shepherds with joint problems? If your German Shepherd has joint problems, you'll want to find a dog food that is rich in omega-three fatty acids. These essential nutrients help to reduce inflammation and pain in the joints. There are many brands of dog food that offer formulas specifically for dogs with joint problems. These foods often contain ingredients like glucosamine and chondroitin, which are known to help relieve joint pain. Now let's chat in more detail about the best dog foods for your furry friend. It is made with all natural ingredients and has no fillers or preservatives. The kibble is also enriched with omega-3 fatty acids, which are beneficial for dogs' skin and coat health. The addition of zinc proteinate and other chelated minerals to the formula is a plus, as it leads to better absorption and nutrition. We also note the inclusion of various probiotics for better digestion and salmon oil, which is beneficial to both skin and coat. Highly suggested! All of their recipes are made with whole ingredients and cooked in small batches. The meals are portioned according to your dog's weight and activity level. Wilderness is a grain-free and protein-rich product with over a dozen options and recipes, which makes it ideal for people who want to rotate their diets. It's reasonably priced, and it gets high marks from consumers. Probiotics, high-quality fiber, and digestive enzymes are included in this formula to aid your dog's digestive health. These components create mouth-watering, healthy food that will sustain your canine companion throughout the day. The foods in this recipe include multiple probiotics for improved digestion, chelated minerals for maximized absorption, and nutrient-dense food. It's inexpensive to buy as well as simple to suggest. Eagle Pack Power Adult Dog Food Image courtesy Eagle Pack The majority of the animal protein in Adult takes the form of fresh chicken and pork meal, as confirmed by the nutritional label. The all-time classic, fully grain-inclusive design that is free of legume concentrates. Antioxidant preservatives are used in a safe and natural manner. There's no BHT or ethoxyquin. It has high animal protein levels, as well as vitamins and minerals that have been boosted through the use of freeze-dried raw pieces. It's designed to unleash your dog's potential to thrive and put the advantages of raw nutrition into every bowl, using cage-free duck as the first ingredient for powerful, lean muscles. It also contains a probiotic boost for digestive health, greater amounts of omegas for healthy skin and coat, and more antioxidants for immune health—all from the highest-quality ingredients from all over the world. This high-protein, low-carb diet is designed for sporting dogs and plush animals with rigorous exercise requirements. It's also perfect for growing pups and pregnant or nursing females. This formula has DHA to support cognitive development, as well as calcium for strong bones and teeth. Iams ProActive Health also has 22 essential vitamins and minerals to keep your puppy healthy and strong. It's nice to discover a Southwest Canyon recipe that includes natural preservatives, which implies the food does not contain any BHA, BHT, or other harmful chemicals. A major brand and a healthy all-age option for any German Shepherd. Champion Petfoods, the well-known maker of Orijen, has long promoted a meat-based "biologically appropriate" diet. This is a tried and true design that makes this particular dish an excellent choice for developing Shepherd pups. This natural dry food is developed to give complete-body nutritional support for puppies of all sizes. It's made with high-quality proteins and whole grains, all of which are complemented by omega fatty acids—such as DHA—necessary vitamins, antioxidants, glucosamine, and probiotics. This balanced, nutritious dry dog food is intended to promote teeth and bone strength, healthy brain growth, general health, energy and vitality, optimal nutrient absorption, and healthy muscle development. It's free of GMOs, by-products from processing animals into pet food ingredients meat meal , fillers, or artificial preservatives to ensure that your dog gets the healthiest food possible. This is a tried-and-true approach that has been developed and studied for decades. It includes controlled calcium and phosphorus ratios, making it ideal for German Shepherd puppies. This large-breed dry food is made with high-quality proteins and whole grains. It's free of chicken by-product meal, corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors or preservatives. This recipe is designed to support the health of large breed puppies with an optimal balance of calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. It also includes DHA from fish oil for healthy brain development. This recipe includes DHA for brain development, calcium and phosphorus for bone growth, and antioxidants to support the immune system. It's also free of artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives. You can feed your dog either dry or wet food, and he may sample two distinct flavor profiles: rice and oatmeal for salmon. Because it contains no allergens like wheat, corn, or soy, there's less of a chance that your dog will suffer an upset stomach. It also includes omega-3 and -6 fatty acids, which help to promote skin, coat, and joint health. Image courtesy Blue Buffalo If you're searching for high-quality, all-natural wet dog food, Blue Buffalo Wilderness is a wonderful alternative. This dog food is high in protein and low in carbohydrates, making it ideal for an entourage diet. It's made with real beef and chicken, can be served as a delicious treat, or blended into your dog's regular dry food. The Blue Buffalo puppy food contains no chicken by-product meals, corn, wheat, soy, or artificial flavors or preservatives; making it a healthy choice for your dog. All dishes are prepared in collaboration with veterinarians and come in a variety of delicious flavors, including beef, lamb, and turkey. All of the meats are imported from the United States, although only lamb comes from Australia. It's also gluten-free, so if you're allergic to grains, you'll be safe. There is a large selection of carbohydrates, which are mostly in the form of potatoes, and there are numerous healthy vegetables and superfoods including lentils, peas, salmon oil, and flaxseed. It's made with real meat, vegetables, and fruit. This recipe is grain-free and free of artificial colors, flavors, or preservatives. It's also high in protein and low in carbohydrates. It's made with real beef, vegetables, and fruit. It also contains sweet potatoes, peas, potatoes, canola oil, and flaxseed. This formula provides your German Shepherd puppy with the high protein diet they need for proper development and growth. Taste of the Wild is one of the most popular brands among dog food reviewers. It's included as our last on this list but has ranked high among some of the best dog foods for German Shepherds because it's high in protein and free of grains. What foods are German Shepherds allergic to? German Shepherds are known to be allergic to a variety of things, including wheat, corn, soy, and even some meats. If you're not sure what your German Shepherd is allergic to, it's always best to consult with your veterinarian. They will be able to recommend the best food for your dog based on their specific allergies. If your German Shepherd is having any sort of adverse reaction to their food, such as scratching, biting, or licking themselves excessively, then they may be allergic to something in their food. Consult with your veterinarian if you're not sure what's causing the reaction. What is the best dog food for German Shephard puppies? Puppies have different nutritional needs than adult dogs, so it's important to find a food that's specifically designed for puppies. Look for a food that has high levels of protein and fat, as well as essential vitamins and minerals. Puppies also need more calories than adult dogs, so make sure the food you choose has a high calorie content. As your puppy grows, they will need less calories and protein, so you'll need to switch to a food that's designed for adult dogs. Consult with your veterinarian to find the best food for your German Shepherd puppy. What is the best food for an adult German Shepherd? The best food for an adult German Shepherd is a diet that is high in protein and fat. This breed of dog is known for its high energy levels and need for exercise, so a food that can help them maintain their energy levels is important. A diet that is too low in calories can cause your German Shepherd to become overweight or obese, which can lead to health problems. When choosing a food for your German Shepherd, it is important to read the label carefully and choose a food that is right for their age, weight, and activity level. Can a German Shepherd drink milk? Yes, German Shepherds can drink milk. Milk is a good source of calcium and other nutrients that are important for this breed of dog. However, it is important to choose a low-fat or skim milk to avoid adding unnecessary calories to their diet. What is the best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy? The best way to feed a German Shepherd puppy is to start them on a diet that is high in protein and fat. Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, so it is important to choose a food that will give them the nutrition they need without making them overweight. As your German Shepherd puppy grows, you can slowly transition them to an adult dog food. It is important to make sure that they are getting the right amount of calories and nutrients for their age, weight, and activity level. What are some common health problems German Shepherds face? Some common health problems German Shepherds face include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and allergies. This breed of dog is also susceptible to obesity, so it is important to choose a food that will help them maintain a healthy weight. German Shepherds are also prone to joint problems, so a food that is rich in glucosamine and chondroitin is important for this breed of dog. What is the life expectancy of a German Shepherd? The life expectancy of a German Shepherd is between nine and thirteen years. This breed of dog is known for being a healthy and hardy breed, but there are some health problems that can shorten their lifespan. It is important to feed your German Shepherd a diet that will help them maintain their health and keep them at a healthy weight to help ensure a long and happy life. Is it OK to put a raw egg in dog food? The answer is complicated. While some experts believe that raw eggs are perfectly safe for dogs, others believe that they can be dangerous. The truth is probably somewhere in the middle. If you decide to feed your dog raw eggs, there are a few things you should keep in mind. First, make sure the eggs are fresh. Second, only feed your dog eggs that have been properly refrigerated. Finally, don't forget to wash your hands thoroughly after handling raw eggs. If you're still not sure whether or not to feed your dog raw eggs, talk to your veterinarian. They can help you make the best decision for your pet. What are the benefits of raw eggs for dogs? There are a few potential benefits of feeding raw eggs to dogs. Some people believe that raw eggs can help increase a dog's energy levels, improve their coat, and even help with joint pain. While there is some anecdotal evidence to support these claims, there is no scientific evidence that raw eggs offer any health benefits for dogs. Our Criteria for Ranking the Best Dog Food Choosing the right dog food is essential for your pet's health and well-being. With the plethora of options available in the market, it can be challenging to determine which dog food is best for your furry friend. To simplify this process and help you make an informed decision, we have established a set of criteria for ranking the best dog food products. These criteria are based on scientific research, expert opinions, and the specific nutritional needs of dogs. Ingredients Quality: High-Quality Protein: The primary ingredient should be a high-quality animal protein source, such as chicken, beef, or fish, to support your dog's muscle development and overall health. Whole Grains and Vegetables: Whole grains and vegetables should be included to provide essential carbohydrates, fiber, vitamins, and minerals. Absence of Fillers and Artificial Additives: No Fillers: The best dog food should not contain fillers like corn, soy, or wheat, which offer limited nutritional value and may cause allergies. No Artificial Additives: It should be free from artificial colors, flavors, and preservatives, which can harm your dog's health over time. Meat Meal vs. Whole Meat: Preference for Whole Meat: Whole meat sources are preferred over meat meals or by-products, as they are less processed and retain more nutritional value. Digestibility and Allergen Consideration: Hypoallergenic Options: For dogs with allergies or sensitivities, hypoallergenic options that avoid common allergens like poultry or grains should be available. High Digestibility: The dog food should be highly digestible to ensure your pet absorbs the maximum nutrients from each meal. Life Stage Appropriateness: Age and Size-Specific Formulations: The best dog food should offer formulations tailored to your dog's life stage puppy, adult, senior and size small, medium, large. Transparency and Sourcing: Transparent Labeling: Brands should provide transparent information about ingredient sourcing and processing methods. Sustainable and Ethical Sourcing: A commitment to sustainable and ethical sourcing of ingredients reflects a brand's responsibility toward animal welfare and the environment. Health Benefits and Special Considerations: Support for Special Health Needs: The best dog food may offer formulations to address specific health concerns, such as joint health, dental care, or weight management. Customer Feedback and Reviews: Positive User Experiences: Customer feedback and reviews are valuable indicators of a product's performance, safety, and palatability. Price and Value: Affordability: The cost of the dog food should be reasonable and commensurate with its quality and ingredients, offering good value for pet owners. Recall History and Safety: Safety Record: Brands with a history of recalls or safety issues should be viewed with caution, as the safety of your pet is paramount. But with our list of the 25 best dog foods for German Shepherds in , you can rest assured that you're giving your furry friend the best possible chance at a long and healthy life. When choosing dog food, consider factors such as your dog's age, size, activity level, any allergies or sensitivities, and consult your veterinarian for specific dietary recommendations. What is the difference between dry and wet dog food? Dry dog food kibble is convenient, has a longer shelf life, and can help with dental health. Wet dog food contains more moisture and can be more palatable for picky eaters. Some owners choose to feed a combination for variety. Is homemade dog food a good option? Homemade dog food can be an option but requires careful research and balance to ensure your dog gets all the necessary nutrients. Consulting with a veterinarian or veterinary nutritionist is recommended. How can I tell if a dog food is of high quality? Look for high-quality protein sources, whole grains and vegetables, minimal fillers and additives, and adherence to AAFCO guidelines for complete and balanced nutrition. Checking customer reviews and consulting experts can also help. Should I choose a dog food based on my dog's breed? While some breed-specific formulas exist, it's more important to consider your dog's individual needs, age, and size when selecting dog food. What should I do if my dog has food allergies or sensitivities? If your dog has allergies or sensitivities, consult your veterinarian for advice. They may recommend hypoallergenic or limited-ingredient dog foods. Is grain-free dog food a better choice? Grain-free dog food isn't necessarily better. While some dogs may benefit from grain-free options, it's essential to ensure the food still provides balanced nutrition, as some grain-free diets have been associated with certain health issues. How often should I feed my dog, and in what portion sizes? Feeding frequency and portion sizes depend on your dog's age, size, and activity level. Puppies typically require more frequent meals. Follow the feeding guidelines provided on the dog food packaging and adjust based on your dog's needs. Can I mix different brands or types of dog food? Mixing different brands or types of dog food can be done, but it should be done gradually to avoid digestive upset. Consult your veterinarian for guidance on the best way to transition your dog to a new diet. Should I be concerned about recalls when choosing dog food? Yes, it's important to stay informed about recalls. Check the FDA and manufacturer websites regularly for recall information. Brands with a history of recalls may be worth avoiding. What is the role of my veterinarian in selecting dog food? Your veterinarian can provide valuable guidance on selecting the right dog food based on your pet's specific needs, health conditions, and dietary requirements. How can I ensure my dog stays hydrated when feeding dry dog food? Always provide access to clean, fresh water. Wetting the dry food or incorporating wet food into the diet can also increase moisture intake. Can I give my dog human food as part of their diet? While some human foods are safe for dogs, it's essential to know which ones are and to avoid potentially toxic foods. Always consult with your veterinarian before adding human food to your dog's diet. Remember that each dog is unique, and their dietary needs may vary. Regular check-ups with your veterinarian and open communication about your dog's diet are key to ensuring their health and well-being. Related Content. It is also a vital element for brain and eye development. Fresh chicken meat in the diet provides protein with high biological value. Natural Prebiotics to boost the overall digestive process. The benefits of Orijen Puppy Large: A calorie limited diet to promote a healthy weight and to put less pressure on joints. Rich in protein for making German Shepherd pups healthy and strong. Highly delicious chicken and turkey liver tempt the pickiest of eaters. The crusty and crunchy kibble texture of this food promotes good periodontal health and helps in curbing problems like Tartar and Plaque buildup. An essential fatty acid like Omega 3 has been added in the diet for boosting the overall skin health of the dogs. A natural antioxidant like Vitamin E fortifies the natural immunity of the pups, keeping them strong and healthy. You can feed your adult German Shepherd 2 times a day. You should avoid feeding them synthetic preservatives. High in Fibres: Natural fibres maintain superior digestive health and also an ideal body weight. Vitamin C: Vitamin C keeps the joints healthy, preventing problems like hip dysplasia and arthritis. Natural fibres promote excellent digestion and maximum nutrient absorption. The benefits of Fidele Adult Large Breed: Contains a substantial amount of protein for enhancing strength and endurance in grown up German Shepherds. Omega fatty acids boost skin health and also maintain good eyesight. It consists of Real Chicken meat as the main constituent which is favourite for German Shepherds. It has a good combination of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids that significantly improves the skin health of the dogs. They do not contain any fillers or preservatives which makes this diet completely safe for German Shepherds to savour. Breed Specified Recipe specially made for German Shepherds Real Chicken meat offers good protein content for supporting strong muscle mass Excellent blend of Omega 3 and Omega 6 fatty acids endow the dogs with good skin health. This dog food has a rich protein content that fortifies the muscle mass in the dogs. Moreover, the crusty texture of this food helps in removing Tartar and Plaque build-up. Ideal dog food for a large breed like German Shepherd Consists of Calcium and Phosphorus that boosts bone density Glucosamine and Chondroitin provides anti-inflammatory effect to the dogs Beet Pulp and FOS prebiotics boosts overall digestive health of the dogs Crusty kibble texture of the food eliminates Tartar and Plaque build-up 5 Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed Dog A highly nourishing meal that has Chicken and Barley as its primary constituents, the Hills Science Diet Adult Large Breed is an easy-to-digest meal offering a nutritional profile that suits an adult German Shepherd. Omega 6 and Vitamin E promote beautiful skin and coat in German Shepherds. Ample amounts of protein maintain lean muscle mass and endurance. They need foods that are low in protein and fat content while richer in fibres. However, an overall moderate diet with all the components is also considered healthy, provided your dog trains and exercises regularly. A senior German Shepherd consumes around calories daily. They can be fed 2 times a day. Fish Oil Omega 3 : Fish oil is an excellent source of Omega fatty acids that provides a good anti-inflammatory effect to senior dogs. Fewer Carbs: As elderly German Shepherds are quite vulnerable to obesity and diabetes, a diet that has a low glycemic index is most preferred to them. A combination of Vitamin E and C, builds a stronger immune system. Devoid of artificial flavors and preservatives. Fresh meat and freeze-dried liver make the meal highly delectable. A biologically appropriate diet that nurtures your older German Shepherds according to their biological and evolutionary needs. Thus, when you adopt a German shepherd pup, make sure that you provide it with a fully nutrition loaded diet and maintain a lifestyle with lots of physical activities. A comprehensive diet including all the above parameters will lead to a healthy and long life span of your little beasts. An avid nature and animal lover, Akhil likes to read and watch anything related to wildlife. He also has a great interest in athletics, mainly track and field events and is a big Masala Dosa fan. More like this.

Montana Mist Goose "Goose" Goose is our 7 yr old male. He is medium sized at 72 pounds but thinks he is a lap dog. He is the most loyal companion I have ever had. He would be happy sitting next to me on our couch all day. He has also been the most calm dog I have ever owned. Even as a puppy he was extremely calm and never chewed a thing. Goose works as a therapy dog with special needs and elderly patients and has his Canine Good Citizen CGC certification. Click here for pedigree info. We love the English Golden Retriever for its calm personality, beautiful coat, and health standards. We have had American Golden Retrievers before and fell in love with the English Cream because of their calm personality and beautiful build. However, every dog has a unique makeup and I have known several American Golden's living years and English Cream Goldens that get cancer. We choose our Goldens for their health, their calm and friendly personalities and ability to be great family additions. We only breed one or two litters a year so that our pups can be raised indoors and are exposed to lots of kids and noises while they are in their critical development stage. Our pups become confident and well-adjusted dogs and many of our families come back to get pup siblings. Many of our pups have gone on to become therapy dogs like their dad. We have both Dams and Sire on-site and invite you to meet them when deciding on a puppy. She has a beautiful wavy thick coat and a playful personality and weighs around 60 pounds. She is great around kids and is a great family companion. She has excellent hips and elbow r esults here , and clear heart and eye tests r esults here. She lives in the Heights with her host mom, Claire, and gets to visit often. Delta loves to swim and is full of energy when she is not napping on the couch. She also just loves everyone. This beautiful dog comes from champion bloodlines and has all of her health clearances results here. She is clear of all genetic diseases that affect this breed and has produced beautiful pups. Click on the image for more pictures. She lives in the Heights with her host family with 3 active boys, and gets lots of attention and loves to chase balls. Her mom describes Ruby as the best dog she has ever had. She is clear of all genetic diseases that affect this breed and should produce beautiful blocky pups. Available Puppies We are taking deposits for future litters. We typically only have litter a year but we have formed a partnerships with a breeders to provide our Texas families with healthy, well-adjusted puppies that are bred with the same rigorous standards we use here. Our puppies are usually sold before they are born, so please be willing to wait between 3 months and a year. We spend thousands of dollars making sure we give our babies the best chance possible for long healthy lives. The upfront cost of a dog is a drop in the bucket when looking at the lifetime cost of owning a pet. Goose Montana Mist Goose was our first English Cream colored Golden Retriever and he was remarkably calmer and easier to raise and train than our previous American Goldens. Goose became a Therapy Dog at 1 year old and is currently working with hospital patients and special needs adults and kids all over town. On top of his calm and loving demeanor, he has a beautiful blocky head and light white coat reflecting his champion bloodline. Our dogs are chosen for their health and personality. We try to ensure we give our puppies the best chance possible for a long healthy life. We choose to breed these golden after reading the research on the lower cancer incidents in English Cream vs. I always suggest meeting the parents whenever possible in your search for a puppy and we love our puppy families to come visit with us. As parents of young children, having dogs with reliable and calm personalities is of utmost importance to us. The golden retriever is a great family dog and we want to improve the breed by only breeding healthy dogs with great personalities. We are based in the Heights in Houston, Texas and our puppies are raised in our home with our 2 boys and lots of visiting kids. All of our English Cream Golden Retriever puppies receive lots of love, attention, socialization, and are started on basic training. Our goal is to raise and have confident, secure puppies that are able to adjust quickly to new environments, things, people, places, and to choose families that can continue their training and care. Tramin Tenderheart is a great name for Maks - He is the sweetest teddy bear! We sometimes call him Twinkle toes because he loves to do this little twisty jump in the middle of a zoomie. See pic to the left! Rebel Starr of Mandalore - Mando Our dogs are our family members. Goldens Retrievers are very loving, smart, sensitive and loyal animals. They are also extremely active, curious and playful. Our dogs are used to being a part of the family, not shut up outside away from people. Puppies take a lot of patience, love and consistency. Goldens need a lot of affection, attention and daily exercise. They thrive on being with their human family. The love they give back to your family is incredible. Please don't pick a dog because it is cute. Look at the qualities in their personalities and make sure you know what you are committing to. We are a small family breeder for companionship. We use a very reputable Vet that specializes in breeding. We don't sell our dogs after they are finished breeding. We don't have a lot of litters. Our puppies come from a home full of positive encouragement and lots of Love! We have been a dog family for over thirty-five years! We have fostered dogs, cats and rabbits for the SPCA. We started to breed Goldens in and the rest is history! Our family believes in making a difference for families and their puppies! We are always finding new ways to help your puppy learn and adapt fluidly into its new home transition. We use Puppy Culture to build a foundation for each puppy in trust, companionship, love and learning skills. Each dog has its own personality and we want to take the time to introduce you to them! We know you will love them as much as we do! Meet our fur family HERE! Discover our next up and coming litter news and updates! We will post all the latest information HERE! If your just visiting this is the place to find the cutest pictures of our previous litters! We hold onto these pictures so our extended family can keep these precious moments forever! Find our past litter pictures HERE! Are you ready to take the next step? You can contact our family HERE with any questions or to schedule a meet and greet with our family. If you are ready to expand your family with a Farley Golden this is the place to fill out your Puppy Application. Do you love golden retrievers?

Please contact us if you cannot find an answer to your question. How will my puppy be cared for before adoption? The puppies will have their first set of shots, deworming, and a Healthy Puppy Check by our local veterinarian. They will come with a blanket that has mamas scent on it to help with the transition, as well as a small bag of puppy food. Where will my puppy spend time before adoption? The puppies will be living in our home with our family. This will give them a head start on social activities, potty training, and being a good puppy. What can I do if my puppy is not working out at home? We understand that sometimes things happen in life that change your ability to care for a puppy. If in the event that you can no longer keep your puppy, we ask that you contact us first. We will be happy to rehome the puppy for you. I would love to adopt a puppy. What is the next step? There are a couple of options. You can complete our puppy application or head over to our contact page and give us a call. Powered by GoDaddy This website uses cookies. We use cookies to analyze website traffic and optimize your website experience. By accepting our use of cookies, your data will be aggregated with all other user data. Are you wondering about adding a Golden Newfie puppy to your family? If you do, read this article! What is a Newfoundland Golden Retriever Mix? Newfoundland golden Retriever Mix is a cross between two of the most popular dog breeds in the world — the Newfoundland and the Golden Retriever. This mix inherits the best qualities from both parents, making for a loyal, friendly, and intelligent pet that gets along well with children and other animals. Also, this hybrid is not without its challenges, though — as both parent breeds are known for being heavy shedders, the Newfoundland golden Retriever Mix is also likely to shed quite a bit. You my like: Labrador retriever golden retriever mix. The Newfoundland golden Retriever mix was created in order to combine these two great qualities. For more information about this mixed breed, you need to know more about parent breeds. Parent breed information. Golden Retrievers. Goldens are medium-sized dogs, their weight is between 55 to 75 pounds. They were initially bred to hunt birds and retrieve waterfowl , and their long history as dedicated hunting companions contributes to their habit of forming close bonds with their humans. The intelligent, trusting dogs love to please and are considered an easy-to-train canine breed. Golden retrievers are affectionate and versatile dogs that can be adapted to various environments. You my like: Brittany spaniel golden retriever mix. The Newfoundland is a large dog breed that originates from the island of Newfoundland in Canada. They were used as working dogs and were often used for rescue missions due to their powerful swimming abilities. The Golden Retriever is a popular breed originating from Scotland. They were originally bred as hunting dogs but are now beloved family pets. Golden Retrievers are loyalty and intelligence. The Newfoundland truly is an adorable dog that loves children. However, they are naturally friendly and gentle with children and also a guardian-people who love this breed claim that they believe that Newfoundland is truly a natural babysitter. Moreover, the American Kennel Club registered the breed in , and the first American Newfoundland champion was titled in .They love to please and enjoy being with family members. Golden Newfies are a joy to live in homes with a family member to play with or provide pets. You my like: Labradoodle golden retriever mix. Newfoundland golden Retrievers are gentle giants who love to be around people. They are also great with children and other pets. Newfoundland golden Retrievers are intelligent dogs who are easy to train. Also, they need plenty of exercise and love to swim. If you are looking for a big, friendly dog, the Newfoundland Golden Retriever mix is a perfect choice! Newfoundland Golden Retrievers are large dogs. They weigh between 70 and 90 pounds and stand between 24 and 28 inches tall at the shoulder. You may like: Foxhound golden retriever mix. Newfoundland golden Retriever mixed breed dogs need plenty of exercises. They love to swim, so a swimming pool or access to a lake or river is ideal. A daily walk or run is also important. Newfoundland Golden Retrievers are easy to train and love to please their owners. However, they do require a lot of grooming, so brush them daily. Coat and color. Newfoundland golden Retriever Mixes will inherit a thick-double coat which is almost guaranteed to be shed everywhere in the house. Golden Newfies typically have complete gray, brown-red, black, or coats, though there may be a little variance. For instance, you may discover that your Golden Newfie has some white marks that are similar to their Newfoundland parent, even though the full, solid coat is more common. The puppy will typically have large brown eyes. You may like: Boxer golden retriever mix. They require some time to maintain that requires regular brushing to keep their gorgeous coats. Moreover, it is important to keep current with the basics of dog care, like daily brushing your teeth and bathing every month. Also, the coats can be susceptible to matting, so it is imperative to brush them regularly. Additionally, regular tooth brushing and nail clipping are vital for any dog. Additionally, because Golden Newfies have floppy ears, they require to clean and check their ears regularly. Health issues. Newfoundland golden Retriever mixed breed dogs are generally healthy. However, they are prone to health issues such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cancer. Newfoundland Golden Retrievers also have a higher than average risk of developing joint problems. If you consider getting a Newfoundland golden Retriever mix, be sure to talk to your veterinarian about the potential health risks. You may also want to consider purchasing pet insurance to help cover the cost of any unexpected medical bills. You may like: Border terrier golden retriever mix. Exercise requirements. Golden newfy need to be kept active and exercised regularly so that their tails stay in motion. Golden Newfies are fond of the water. However, playing a game of playing fetch or taking a few long walks also serves the same purpose. Golden Newfoundland mix dog breed make amazing pets for the majority of families. I grew up on a farm where we had all sorts of animals, from cows and horses to pigs and chickens. My love for animals led me to pursue a career in writing about them. I have been a pet care writer for over 5 years and have extensive knowledge of animal care, health, and behavior. Lifespan Sociability So, the most obvious thing that you need to make sure you have before buying a Golden Newfie is space and lots of it. This pooch weighs between 75 and pounds and can measure up to 29 inches tall. Not only do you need space in the home, but you also need access to outdoor space so that he can play and snooze in the fresh air. You might want to invest in a bigger sofa too because the Golden Newfie sees himself as a lapdog. Get ready for the numb leg life! This guy is needy, and so he needs to be homed with a family that can spend most of their time with him. Do you spend long hours in the office? Sadly this hybrid hound is not for you. He craves human company and becomes very anxious and sad without it. This will lead to separation anxiety, and an anxious dog with the power and jaws that he has means that your homely possessions will not be around for long. So, someone will need to be around for most of the day. This guy sheds moderately all year round, and he experiences a full-on shed during shedding season. There is also the issue of doggy drool. If he takes after his Newfie parent, he will definitely be a drooler. Although the Golden Newfie is calm in the home, he needs a lot of exercise. His exercise will not need to be intense or vigorous like other breeds need, but he will need a steady 1-hour walk every day. Taking him to the local lake will boost your mom or dad points for sure! The cost of welcoming a Golden Newfie into your life is higher than most other breeds. This is a significant factor to consider before you buy one of these guys. Being a large to giant breed, he will need a large bed, large toys, large harnesses, etc. He also eats a lot of food, and it is also likely that his medical costs will be higher too. The Golden Newfie is rarely golden. Despite his name and the color of his Golden Retriever parent, this guy is rarely gold. This is unusual for mixed pups who tend to be a mixture of their parents, rather than inheriting the typical color of one parent. If you do find a rarer color, he is likely to be much more expensive than a classic black Golden Newfie. The Golden Newfie might have webbed feet. His Newfoundland parent has webbed feet, so this guy will likely have them, too. This will not cause any complications. Instead, it makes him a stronger swimmer and an excellent water rescue dog. Not only is his Newfie parent able to pull in fishing nets and boat lines, but he can save a fully grown man from drowning. So the Golden Newfie is a useful chap to have around. Okay, so he can bark, but he almost always chooses not too. Instead, he will growl at those who he suspects are up to no good or putting his family in danger. His low growl and humungous size are enough to put any intruder off. This sweet guy is super affectionate with his family. He loves nothing more than to chill with his family, receiving all the belly rubs for being the best boy. He will paw at you for more attention, and this seriously needy dog will never leave you alone. This is great if you are seeking a doggy partner in crime, but not so much if you prefer more independent dogs. His neediness quickly develops into separation anxiety, more so than most other dogs. This is why he must be placed with a family where someone can be home for most of the day. Do not underestimate his need for human company, or try to stretch a few hours absence into 5 or 6, this will not do for the Golden Newfie. In return for your company and love, he will provide you with hours of fun and plenty of personality. Although he is calm in the home, he will happily frolic in the backyard and play games with his family. Fancy an afternoon of silly activities? He has a protective nature inherited from his Newfie parent and will stand his ground and growl if he feels the need to. Thankfully his sheer size and deep growl are enough to keep intruders away. Instead, he prefers a more tranquil atmosphere. He loves children and will probably choose to sit with them over his parents any day of the week. Both breeds are known to have a sweet spot for younger members of the family, so he will be doubly caring. His Newfie parent is famous for helping out with family children , the most notable being Brumus, who helped Senator Robert Kennedy with his 11 children. Are These Dogs Good for Families? He is versatile and adaptable to most family environments and dynamics, just as long as you meet his needs. The only thing that might be a cause for concern is his ginormous size. Although he adores children, he could smother a child without even realizing it. For this reason, you always need to supervise a Golden Newfie when there are young children around. As long as he is socialized, he should do well with dogs of all shapes and sizes. So he makes a prime canine candidate for a multi-dog or multi-pet household. He should be fed a high-quality kibble that is specially designed for large or giant breeds. Giant breeds have unique nutritional needs, and all-life stage kibbles will not do here. These kibbles will support his heavily laden joints and his slower metabolism. This is particularly important during his puppy stage because the right nutrition can decrease his chances of developing muscular-skeletal diseases. He will demand a constant supply of snacks and fatty human foods, but you need to resist. The Golden Newfie can easily pile on the pounds, so you need to monitor his food intake and treats carefully. An overweight Golden Newfie is an unhappy and unhealthy one. You need to be mindful that being a large dog, the Golden Newfie is susceptible to suffering from Gastric Dilation Volvulus. Never feed him immediately before or after exercise, because this can bring on this life-threatening condition. Make yourself aware of the symptoms, and always keep these in the back of your mind. Instead, he would much prefer long country walks and a few playtime sessions in the yard with his family. Not only will he become stubbornly lazy if you allow him to be, but he needs to get his heart pumping and his large body moving to stay healthy. As you already know, he will love the water, so be sure to include this in your list of activities for the week. An unruly and arrogant Golden Newfie will be a struggle to deal with, even for the strongest and experienced owners. Taking him down to the local doggy park is a great way to exercise his body, stimulate his mind, and remind him how to be polite. You will want to think about leash training this boy from the start because a Golden Newfie who pulls on the leash will be difficult to handle and unenjoyable to walk. It is also a great way to teach him who is in charge. Crate training is also advised for this anxious pup. It also gives you peace of mind knowing that your dog is happy in his safe-spot when you are out. He has a thick and wavy double coat that will need brushing every single day. Otherwise, his jacket will quickly become matted, which is not only painful for him, but it can lead to skin conditions. Brushing also strengthens the bond with your canine, and he will love it for sure. Bathtime will not be an issue for this pooch. Always rinse and dry thoroughly too. You will need to trim his claws regularly, as well as cleaning his eyes and ears. The Golden Newfie suffers from regular ear infections if not cleaned thoroughly. This is an excellent lifespan for a dog of his size. Minor Conditions. Breed Profiles By Kate Brunotts 12 min read January 4, 4 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Looking for a sweet, patient pooch to add to your clan? This adorable cross between a golden retriever and Newfoundland produces a dignified designer dog that is sure to leave a pawprint on your heart. What Is A Golden Newfie? Image from DoggieDesigner. Goldens are medium-sized dogs weighing between 55 and 75 pounds. They were originally bred to hunt birds and retrieve waterfowl , and their history as loyal hunting companions plays into their tendency to bond closely with their humans. These trusting, intelligent dogs are eager to please and fairly are generally considered an easy to train dog breed. So long as these loving dogs get enough exercise and time with their families, they make amazing canine companions. These gentle giants weigh between and pounds and have hearts of pure gold. These big buddies bond closely with their humans and are always up for a quick swim. Newfoundlands are working dogs who need regular exercise, mental stimulation, and plenty of room to stay happy. But despite the minor challenges they present, these are some of the most devoted, loving dogs you can find. Newfoundlands are known for their keen ability to befriend children, along with anyone else in your family. These big best buddies are easy to train due to their natural intelligence, and they make amazing canine companions as long as they have enough space to stretch out. That being said, here are some general guidelines of what you can expect from a Golden Newfie. This way, you can determine whether or not these fabulous furry friends are a good fit for your family. Image from Pinterest Size and Shape: Golden Newfies are large dogs weighing between 80 and pounds. These pups usually have on a golden retriever-like frame, with fluffier fur and a bulkier head, presumably from their Newfoundland parents. Temperament: Most Golden Newfies are known for their sweet disposition and sensitive personalities, deceivingly wrapped in a bear-like exterior. These big buddies are eager to please and love spending time with their families. Golden Newfies love lively households where someone is usually around to play or provide pets. Coat and Colors: These pups will inherit a thick-double coat that is unfortunately guaranteed to shed all over the house. Golden Newfies tend to have full brown, gray, red, or black coats, but there can occasionally be a bit of variation here. For example, you may find that your Golden Newfie has some white markings similar to his Newfoundland parent, though a full solid coat is most common. These patient pups will usually have big brown eyes. That being said, these sensitive dogs respond best to positive, consistent training sessions. A treat or two is sure to help throughout training sessions. These mentally sharp dogs will also enjoy puzzle toys and engaging in other challenging activities. Training Challenges: Since these dignified doggos are quite large, they must be trained as early and consistently as possible. While they are rarely aggressive, Golden Newfies can be naturally protective around strangers. Grooming: These fluffy friends take quite a bit of maintenance, requiring daily brushing to maintain their lustrous coats. These working dogs need to be engaged and exercised regularly to keep their tails wagging. Golden Newfies love going for a good swim they even have webbed feet , though a lively game of fetch or a couple of long walks will also serve this purpose. Health: Unfortunately, these dogs have a shorter lifespan than other breeds as is the case with many large breed dogs. Golden Newfies live around 10 years with proper care. These dogs are fairly healthy otherwise, though they can be susceptible to conditions like hip dysplasia and bloat which are experienced by both parent breeds. Hold your horses! There are a few important things you need to take into consideration before bringing one of these sweeties home. Here is a quick checklist to make sure the Golden Newfie is the dog of your dreams: Somebody is usually home at your house. These people-oriented pooches want nothing more than to hang out with their family members and friends. Though these pups are sweet and laid back, they are still a working breed so they need to be mentally and physically engaged on a daily basis to stay happy. With large breeds like the Golden Newfie, focused training sessions are an absolute must. These dogs also need to be socialized early on, as they may have a tendency to be protective around strangers. While this daily upkeep can be a lot of work, a grateful Golden Newfie is sure to show his appreciation in unwavering loyalty and care. You can keep these smart pups entertained. Golden Newfies need more than just their mandatory potty walks. These pups should be paired with families that are able to provide them with plenty of activities and attention throughout the day. You have plenty of space. Any Golden Newfie is sure to appreciate having a big, fenced-in yard to stretch his legs in. Golden Newfies love spending time with friends and family members of all ages. While these dogs are incredibly loving and wonderful canine companions, they do require considerable amounts of attention and maintenance on a daily basis. With that in mind, most Golden Newfie owners find that these big buddies are worth the extra care and effort. As with any designer dog, Golden Newfies result from a unique cross and are, therefore, somewhat tricky to track down. With that in mind, one of your best resources is the internet! Scour pet-oriented search engines like Petfinder for leads on these designer dogs. You can also ask other Golden Newfie owners if you could get in contact with their breeder. Should the characteristics of either parent seem unfit for you and your family, the puppy might not be the right pick for you. Bernefie: This Bernese Mountain dog and Newfoundland mix is gentle, intelligent, and good with kids. These big buddies bond closely with their family members and may be naturally wary of strangers, so early socialization is paramount. Golden Saint: This Saint Bernard and golden retriever mix is a gentle, loving family companion that is sure to keep you on your toes with his playful personality. These fluffy friends have infectious, happy-go-lucky personalities. These people-pleasing pups love following their family members from one room to the next. Golden Pyrenees: This golden retriever and great Pyrenees mix is a sweet, protective pooch. These friendly floofs like to stay busy, but they will enjoy curling up with you after a long day of work. Bernese Mountain Dog: The Bernese mountain dog is good-natured, kind, and endlessly devoted to his family members. These hard-working pups do particularly well with kids. Leonberger: These highly intelligent gentle giants love playing and spending time with their family members. Leonberger dogs are eager to please and fairly easy to train. Saint Bernard: Saint Bernards and, for that matter, most Saint Bernard mixes are playful pups that are known for their big size and even bigger hearts. These gentle canine companions make amazing furry family members when paired with the right home. Do you have one of these friendly four-footers at home? Does he act more like a golden retriever or a Newfoundland? Header image from Newfoundlanddog-info. These large, fluffy, and lovable companions make great family pets. They are sweet, affectionate, and eager to please. This dog breed may not be established enough for the AKC yet, but they are recognized by other canine registries. The parents of a Golden Newfie are some of the friendliest and most affectionate dog breeds. They do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they are protective of their families, they even tend to be open and friendly with strangers! Because of their size, the Golden Newfie is a moderately adaptable dog. As long as they get enough daily exercise and attention, they can adapt to apartment living, but it needs to be big enough for their size to allow them to move around. They thrive in larger homes, especially those with fenced yards where they can run and play freely. Golden Newfies do well in most climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Their fluffy coats also make them prone to overheating easily. Because they bond closely with their families and are affectionate companions, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time and can develop separation anxiety if you do not work with them on it. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Golden Newfie can include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation , subaortic stenosis, and cancer. Reputable breeding practices make a big difference. Good breeders will screen their dogs to make sure they are not passing preventable issues to puppies, so make sure you ask about the parents and any tests that have been done. As a large dog breed, the Golden Newfie is at risk for bloat. Golden Newfies are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please. But, they also get bored easily, especially with repetition, and can become stubborn if training is not kept interesting. They respond best to patient, consistent training focused on positive rewards and praise. They do not respond well to harsh tones and will often become obstinate and uncooperative if they are used during training. Despite this potential stubbornness, Golden Newfies tend to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. You just want to be prepared to enroll in puppy training classes if you are a first-time dog owner. Golden Newfies will have a long, fluffy coat that can range from cream to gold to black. They will shed moderately year-round and heavier during seasonal changes. Brushing a few times a week is usually enough, but daily brushing is recommended, especially during seasonal shedding sessions. Bathing is on an as-needed basis and grooming is recommended a couple of times a year. Cutting nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks along with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing daily with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste every day, in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Although a Golden Newfie has moderate exercise requirements, they can sometimes be a couch potato. Daily walks plus some playtime and other activity are what this dog needs to stay happy and healthy. A fully-grown Golden Newfie usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Golden Newfies generally live for years. Featured Golden Newfie Article.

She graduated from the University of Glasgow in with a degree in veterinary medicine and surgery. She has worked at the same animal clinic in her hometown for over 20 years. There are 10 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed , times. Labrador retrievers are an adorable and popular dog breed that can make a great addition to your household. Aside from a physical examination, you can do a professional DNA test on the dog to check its genetic makeup. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. Does the fur appear short, and have a thick texture? The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Did you know? There are silver labs, but silver is not an acceptable color in the breed standard as this color is believed to have come from a cross with the Weimaraner. However, dogs with this coat color may still be registered with certain kennel clubs. If the dog is a yellow or black lab, check that the puppy has brown eyes. In the case of chocolate labs, check for brown or hazel eyes. Check to see how long its legs are; while a Labrador should have longer legs than a Dachshund, its legs should be shorter than a Husky. Purchase a dog genetics test, which will give you a specialized testing kit. Some DNA tests will look for genetic markers, while cheaper tests focus more on the different breeds. Tip: Try to keep the puppy from sharing food or playing rough with the other dogs, as this might hurt the integrity of the saliva sample. Package the saliva sample according to the instructions given by the company. Seal the envelope or package carefully, so the sample is completely secure while it travels to the lab. Generally, you can find the test results listed by breed, followed by a percentage; however, this might differ, depending on the company. If this is possible, use a cotton swab to collect saliva samples from 1 or both parents. Store these samples carefully, so you can send them to a professional company. Seal the envelope or package carefully to secure the sample, and keep it safe in transit. Go to source Seeing a CH or confirmation champion title on the pedigree certificate means that the dog is close to the ideals in the breed standard and is related to a dog that was able to win over other dogs at a show with at least 15 conformation points. Go to source A dog with this lineage can make a great candidate for showing. If your dog has documented parentage with the American Kennel Club, you can search their database and purchase a certificate that affirms this. You can also register your dog through the American Kennel Club once you have proof of their pedigree. Go to source Fees for pedigrees very depending on the type. How do you pick a good Labrador puppy from a litter? Other characteristics include a moderately-sized muzzle, medium-sized and well-spaced eyes, and a thick and water-resistant coat. Physical Appearance And Features Breed standards may vary. As per the American kennel club, A labrador retriever should weigh about pounds. They should be .While dilute colors can be AKC registered, they are unacceptable in the show-ring business. Other physical traits include a dense, short coat, otter-like tail , broad skull, and kind eyes. How To Identify pure breed yellow lab 2. Personality And Temperament Labrador Retriever has a gentle personality. They like to cuddle and are loyal to their owners. These dogs love activities like fetch or swimming and are playful. However, temperament can vary depending on the individual dog. Some Labs may be more laid-back and easygoing, while others can be hyper. An aggressive labrador can be tamed with socialization. One common behavioral trait is their strong sense of wanderlust. If given the opportunity, these dogs run off searching for adventure. A secure fence or leash is needed when taking them outside. Overall, labs make wonderful family pets. They have high energy and make good working dogs and sporting dogs. No wonder they are the most popular breed of dogs. Their love for food can sometimes cause obesity. How To Identify pure bred labrador 3. Health Considerations Labrador Retrievers are generally healthy dogs but can still suffer from breed-specific issues. Some examples include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy PRA. DNA testing can detect genetic abnormalities that might not be visible yet. Another crucial health consideration is its nutrition and exercise requirements. Regular exercise helps burn off excess energy, which keeps them physically fit and mentally stimulated. Opt for high-quality dog food brands recommended by veterinarians. Avoid harmful additives or fillers that could harm its overall wellness. Researching The Breeder Reputable breeders are transparent about their breeding process. Ask for referrals from a fellow dog owner or veterinarian. Look out for red flags such as unresponsiveness or reluctance to let you visit their facilities. You can identify reliable breeders via the AKC directory. Conducting A Physical Examination Conducting a physical examination can help you identify potential red flags. It must have a sleek appearance. Eyes: The eyes of a purebred Labrador should be medium-sized. A chocolate or black lab typically has brown eyes, while yellow Labs may have lighter-colored eyes. Ears: The ears of a purebred Labrador should hang down close to the head and have a slightly rounded tip. Its color will depend on the color of its coat. Teeth: Check that all teeth have erupted properly by age. Body structure: Purebred Labradors should have an athletic build with well-proportioned muscles and limbs. They are suited for work in water or outfields. It is thick and tapers toward the tip. Behavior: Observe how the puppy plays and interacts with other puppies or older dogs. Genetic testing can reveal potential health issues like hip dysplasia early on so that preventative measures can be taken. A CH Conformation Champion on the certificate means the dog is close to the breed standards. However, they indicate potential health problems. Despite their unconventional coloring, some Lab variations, such as the Silver Lab and Fox Red Lab, are still considered purebreds. If the potential dogs look smaller than usual, it might point towards some degree of mixed-breed heritage. Labrador retrievers are the least aggressive dogs. Their behavior matches the cuddling kind. If a lab shows aggressive behavior, it may not be pure. An aggressive labrador is due to inadequate training and socialization. A responsible and reputable breeder should be open and transparent. Breeders must be able to answer whether they conduct genetic testing on their breeding dogs. This allows for better management. Ask for referrals from friends who have purchased a purebred Labrador. Ask for references and testimonials from prospective breeders. Ask if they have been screened for genetic disorders. Observe firsthand how the puppies behave and interact with each other. You can also assess whether they look healthy or not. During your visit, note how clean the breeding grounds are and whether or not they have access to food, water, and bedding materials. Breeders committed to producing healthy purebred Labradors always give OFA certification. Ask your breeder if they have conducted specific veterinary checks on the puppy. This includes checking for parasites like worms or fleas and ensuring the new puppy has received vaccinations. It means using both objective information alongside subjective feelings to make informed decisions. DNA tests or pedigree papers are the best ways to identify a pure labrador retriever. A visual evaluation is also beneficial, but you cannot depend on it entirely. How does a pure Labrador look like? If you see labrador retrievers with coat colors other than yellow, black, or chocolate, they are not purebred. A purebred lab can have a small white mark but nothing other than that. Do purebred Labs have white on them? The current breed standards are clear on what labrador retrievers should look like. However, some labs may not meet the breed standard. A mismark occasionally appears, indicating they are not purebred. A small white spot is acceptable, though. What is the difference between pure Labrador and Labrador? A purebred labrador adheres to the standard breed characteristics in terms of height, weight, coat color, temperament, etc. They may exhibit the same behavior with slight variations. How should a Lab puppy look? A lab puppy must have a strong build, broad skull, high energy, deep chest, etc. Their broad skull usually has a defined stop. They have powerful jaws of medium length. Their cheeks are not fleshy. What color eyes does a purebred Labrador have? Labrador eye colors should be brown yellow and black labs. Chocolate labs can have brown or hazel eyes. Some labrador retrievers can have green or greenish-yellow eyes. Silver labrador retrievers have gray eyes. Research is essential before purchasing a puppy from a litter. Enquire about their appetite, elimination, etc. Consider their health and pet parents before making a decision. About The Author Sarah Sheikh Labradors have an extraordinary capacity for love and companionship, and my mission is to help you unlock their full potential. Hi there! I'm Sarah, a proud contributor to Labradorandyou, the go-to online resource for all Labrador Retriever enthusiasts. As a lifelong owner and avid admirer of these remarkable dogs, I bring a wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience to our readers. One of my strongest beliefs is in the power of positive reinforcement training. I'm truly passionate about helping our readers build strong, positive relationships with their Labradors. Whether you're a first-time owner or a seasoned Labrador enthusiast, I aim to provide you with the resources and guidance to cultivate a bond that will endure a lifetime. This is a little bit of a testy area. People believe they have some little gimmick that will help them find the best pup in the litter. That does not mean that there is not some procedure that will help you get a Lab pup. There are some things that you can and should be doing if you are looking for a Labrador puppy. How to Identify a Good Labrador Puppy? These four steps will help you get the healthiest and happiest puppy possible. All you need to know to identify a good Labrador puppy. Everyone wants to get the best dog possible, and, if you ask, you will find that some people have definite opinion about how to identify a good Labrador puppy when you are looking at the litter. This is because there is only so much you can tell from genetics when you look at a group of puppies. Is a Labrador the Right Dog for You Before you worry about choosing the right Labrador puppy, you need to make sure that a Lab is going to fit into your family. There are so many things that go into providing the perfect home for a Labrador Retriever. Owning a dog is a big responsibility and not one that you should take upon yourself or your family lightly. Is your family ready for the challenge? One of the difficult things we have run into in our family is that I am not the only person that takes care of the dog. There are times when my family has to step in and help out with Lady. I have 7 children that love dogs. But, my wife does not. That has not been a little difficult for us. You need to do more than just identify a good Labrador puppy. It is important to make sure that your family is ready for a dog. As my children have gotten older, I have found that they are excellent helpers. A Labrador Retriever can become a serious burden on your relationships if you rush into a purchase. Is your home ready for a good Labrador puppy? Everyone knows that Labrador puppies are adorable. They may be in the top 5 cutest things on the earth. You can cuddle them, and your kids can carry them around or lead them on a leash. That does not last! A Labrador puppy will grow up and get bigger. Some people have suggested that if you live in an apartment there is no way for your to successfully raise a Labrador puppy. I totally disagree. I really think that there are things you can do if you want a Labrador and live in a confined space. There is no reason that you cannot find a good Labrador puppy that will thrive in your small home or apartment. I spent some time thinking about Retriever breeds in confined spaces and put together some ideas that will help you and your dog enjoy small spaces. Potty training a Retriever when you live in an apartment or a small house without a yard can be very difficult and time consuming. You are going to spend a lot of time carrying your dog to a place where she can relieve herself. Just plan on it. You also need to consider the kind of apartment and the people that you live around. Are they going to be as receptive to your Lab? Even if you identify a good Labrador puppy, some people are going to flip out the first time they hear it bark or whine. Also, make sure it is okay with your lease that you have a dog in your apartment or house if you are renting. Even best Lab or Golden Retriever will get you kicked out of a living space if the fine print forbids pets. Obviously, you have considered the fact that a grown Labrador or Golden Retriever will need a lot of exercise. So, before you purchase a good Labrador or Golden puppy, you have already committed yourself to several periods of exercise outside as the pup grows. Finally, finances matter when you identify a good Labrador puppy Finances are not as exorbitant as my wife thought they would be when I brought home my first dog. For the most part, if you identify a good Labrador puppy, you will have a dog that is healthy and only requires regular checkups and vaccinations. The big expense will be the food bill. If you go with the really expensive stuff, it will shoot up from there. Additionally, there are those unexpected costs that can blow a monthly budget. Just before Christmas last year, my 6-year-old Lab, Lady, was hit by a car. It was a horrible night for our family. She was not killed, but we knew that she was hurt really bad. I took her to the hour vet. Then, I had to pay for a follow up visit to a different vet. As a dog owner, you will have to prepare for those kinds of surprises. There are lots of other things to consider before you purchase a puppy. Dogs are a long-term, big-time commitment. Remember, Labradors live to be 10 to 14 years old. When you pick out your Labrador pup, you are making a commitment that lasts almost as long as your children will be in your house. Identify a good Labrador puppy that will fit in with everyone in your family. It will flip your considerations upside down and help you reevaluate where you are on getting a Lab puppy. They cannot see any good reason to purchase a new puppy. I know people that have adopted great dogs. It is easy if you do your homework first and find the right breeding pair of dogs. Once you have found the litter, it does not matter what puppy you pick. There are several tests that supposed-dog experts do before picking a dog. I learned that you consider the feet and the tail. Some people like to hold the dog on her back to see how much she fights back. There are a number of different strategies to try and decipher what dog is going to be the calmest or the best hunter. To be honest, those might tell you the finer points of the dog, but the real issue is the DNA that the dog starts with. So, research the parents of the litter. Ask questions about the parents that will help you get an idea of the gene pool your puppy comes from. You should definitely go see both parents and watch how they behave around new people, in the house, and out in the field. Look at how big they are and ask how much time they spend hunting only if you intend on hunting with your dog. Questions for the Breeder If you find the right breeder, most of the effort in trying to identify a good Labrador puppy is finished. Here are some other questions you should ask a Labrador Breeder if you want to find the best breeder and litter available: Are the sire and dam registered? Will I have full or partial registration can I breed the puppy myself? You may or may not have any desire to breed your dog later on, but I think you should still pay a little extra and get full breeding rights. I did not do this one time and the male ended up being a beautiful dog and an incredible hunter. But I could not do anything even when good, reputable breeders inquired about using him for a litter. You will pay a little more to get this, but it is worth it. Where will the puppies be raised until I get to take him home? How will the puppy be socialized before I bring him home? Socialization is a big deal. Although the mom will provide all the essential needs, your puppy needs to be around people, sights, and sounds. The more socialization your puppy gets before you pick him up, the easier the transition to your house will be. Will the puppy be up-to-date on vaccinations with the dew claws removed before I pick him up? This is a game-breaker. If the breeder does not remove the dew claws and take care of vaccinations, then he is not a breeder that you EVER want to do business with. In addition to the vaccination, a good breeder will also provide you with a schedule for future vaccinations. Do you breed other breeds besides the Labs? I prefer a breeder that sticks to one breed; someone that loves this breed. Sometimes you can find a reputable breeder that runs two breeds, but I would never go with someone that does more than that. How long have you been breeding Labs? How many litters has this female had before? This will give you an idea of how much experience the breeder has. Not to say that a first-timer cannot have good puppies. Everyone has to start somewhere. But, you can feel more confident with a breeder that has been around the block. If the dam has whelped previous litters, you can often find what those dogs look like today. Do you have official certificates of health for hips, elbows, and eyes? This is another must-have. Unfortunately, Labradors are known for having health problems—especially in the elbows, hips, and eyes. A good breeder, that really cares about her dogs, will make sure that her breeding stock does not have health issues that will be passed onto the puppies. How old does the puppy have to be before I can take him home? Most breeders will tell you between 8 and 12 weeks old. Your puppy has to be on dry food, but he also needs time with mom to learn lessons that will help him be successful at your house. Do you offer a health guarantee and a contract affirming that guarantee? Some really well-established breeders actually offer a health guarantee. You need to read the contract to see what exactly it entails, but it is great if you do get a dog that develops hip dysplasia early on in life. Will you give me the contact information for people that have purchased puppies from previous litters? This can give you an idea of the temperament of your dog as he gets older. You will also see potential physical attributes that you may, or may not, like in a dog. Would you be willing to take the dog back if my circumstances change and I cannot keep him? Heaven forbid anything change in your life that requires you to give up your dog, but it happens. Some breeders are willing, for the well-being of the dog to take the dog back and then place it in another home. Every breeder that offers this is a little different in how they do it. What requirements do you have of families and individuals that purchase your puppies? You want a breeder that has a list of expectations for anyone that is going to purchase one of their pups. This tells you that they are not just in this breeding business for the money. Meet the Prospective Parents Just like when you were dating, you learned a lot about your significant other the first time you went home to meet mom and dad. There is a reason why the invitation to come home was such a big deal. The same is true when you are trying to identify a good Labrador puppy. You want to see mom and dad. Seeing them on site will give you an idea of what physical features your puppy will likely develop. Will she have a big, square English Lab head, or is your puppy going to go the way of the slenderer American Labrador? You can see the colors—this is important especially with Yellows where there is a significant amount of variation from Fox Red to basically White. Hopefully, if your breeder has children, you can get an idea of how mom and dad act with children. Also, if you are going to do any hunting or AKC events with your Lab puppy, you should ask to see the parents do some retrieving. I like to ask for videos of the parents working a field if possible. If you are really lucky, and the breeder seems open to the idea, ask if you can follow him around on a training session or even a live hunt. That will give you a really good idea about the potential in this litter to help you identify a good Labrador puppy. After all, when you identify a good Labrador puppy, what you are really looking for is potential. You are now ready to identify a good Labrador puppy to take home. Step 4 is to simply close your eyes and grab one. Okay, that may be a little too simplified. But that is really about how simple it is. Lady and her litter of puppies. When you have great parents it is easy to identify a good Labrador puppy. Ask yourself if you are looking for a male or female. Some people believe that the gender will determine the temperament. I have seen some pretty high-strung females and mellow males. Whether you get a male or a female will depend on what you hope to do with the dog later on. If you are hoping to run AKC events, you will need to keep in mind that females in heat are not allowed to run the events. I have seen some sites suggest that you neuter or spay your puppy as soon as you can unless you are going to breed later on. If you want to see why I am so adamant about keeping your dog male and female intact until later in life, you need to read this article on the best age to neuter a Labrador. Does he seem confident? Is her coat shiny? Are his eyes bright and curious? Is she about the same size, bigger, or smaller than other pups in the litter? As you consider these various factors, keep in mind that every puppy in that litter came from the same gene pool. You have already put the work into finding the best gene pool possible. Once you have done that, then the intelligence and ability of the puppy is already in place. That is why I joke but kinda not that you can just close your eyes and pick one. There are so many things that you cannot predict even with all of the little tests that people try when they look at a puppy. The best Labrador I ever owned was the last pup left in a large litter. At least 8 other people looked at this Labrador puppy and chose a different pup. He ended up being the best dog in the litter. He was smart and obedient. He progressed through our training lessons extremely quickly. And, looking back, the choice was easy because there were no other puppies available. When you are trying to identify a good Labrador puppy, the early steps in the process are the most important. Purebred dogs can be identified in three possible ways: Can you tell by looking? Purebred dog characteristics are not a certainty when it comes to identification. I have a steady stream of people coming to my forum, posting questions in the comments boxes at the foot of my articles, and writing emails to ask: is my dog purebred? The question is very often accompanied by photographs, or detailed descriptions of the characteristics of the dog. A visual assessment is what most of my readers are hoping I will give them when they send me photographs. So what exactly is a visual assessment of a purebred Labrador? Purebred Dog Characteristics A visual assessment of pedigree involves looking at a dog and comparing his appearance with the breed standard. This involves a detailed knowledge of the breed standard. Purebred Lab Breed Standard Breed standards vary slightly from one country to the next. So, here, we will just be focusing on the AKC breed standard. This standard says that a purebred Labrador Retriever should weigh between 55 and 80 pounds, growing to between .The three recognized colors are yellow, black, and chocolate. But, yellow is accepted in a variety of shades. Dilute colors and mismarks can be AKC registered but are disqualified from the show ring. I want to give you a couple of examples to illustrate the problems involved with this approach. She has a thin, whippy tail with an upwards curve, overlong ears and a long narrow face. These features, combined with her ginger coat mean that very few people recognize her as a Labrador at all. I have been asked if she is a Vizsla cross, a Lab x Greyhound, and other unlikely combinations. In fact this purebred Labrador Retriever has an impeccable pedigree full of noble ancestors with famous names. But if someone made a visual assessment from a photo of her, unless they were familiar with working line Labs, they might well put her down as a crossbreed. The father is a show line lab, and his looks have dominated in this particular dog. A visual assessment would wrongly put him in the purebred category when he is actually no such thing. Mixed breeds like this can inherit any blend of traits from their parents. Are Visual Assessments Any Good? I hope you can see from these examples how worthless visual assessments usually are. While I can point out that your dog may have faults that will eliminate him from the show ring, I cannot possibly tell you whether or not he is purebred by looking at him. Purebred Dog Colors Can you tell if you have a purebred black Lab or a purebred chocolate Lab from their color alone? Unfortunately the answer here is no. So, a mixed breed could easily have a solid coat in one of these colors. Do purebred Labs have white on them? The current Labrador breed standard is very clear on what a purebred Labrador should look like. But not all Labradors meet that standard. But equally a mismark can occur in purebred Labrador Retriever puppies too. Common Lab Mismarkings Big white chest patches are fairly common in mismarked Labs. It is even possible to get a purebred Labrador with tan points like a rottweiler or patches of brindle fur. These types of puppies are genetic accidents and the puppies are usually sold as pets to owners who appreciate their unusual friend. Purebred Dog Pedigree Papers If you buy a purebred dog, the breeder should give you the registration document with the names of both parents. Most breeders will also give you a copy of the pedigree which lists the ancestors of those parents, together with any titles they may have, back through five generations. Pedigree Papers Have Limitations If you have the correct pedigree papers, then your puppy is probably a purebred dog. I say probably because there is room for dishonesty with this system. It is possible for a dishonest stud dog owner to mate his female dog to one stud dog and register the puppies to another. Which brings us to our final method, DNA identification. There are various laboratories offering this service. The laboratory will examine the sample you send in. This greatly reduces the chances of your dog being cross bred. Ask to see the registration documents! Do not accept any excuses, your breeder must have registered the litter in order for you to be able to register your puppy. Meet the mother and make sure that you like the way she looks. There is always another litter. Let someone else who loves unusual markings buy that puppy. It is possible to find a purebred black Lab with white markings, or a purebred chocolate Lab with brindling. After Buying Your Purebred Puppy Once you have purchased your puppy try not to worry about whether or not he is purebred. Remember that many purebred dogs have mismarks or poor conformation, so if you have pedigree papers for him, he is probably purebred no matter what he looks like. Try to ignore any other people that criticize your purebred dog, or try to convince you he is not a purebred. After all, the most important thing is that your dog is happy, healthy, and a great addition to your family. Even in modern days, the Labrador boasts the thick, sometimes wiry coat that helped its ancestors to stay warm when fowling in the freezing Canadian sea. Due to this selective breeding, the Labrador breed still retains many of the characteristics that made the dog a valuable asset: vigor, strength and powerful love for retrieval. Labradors come in three main variants: chocolate, yellow and black. Though there are many differing opinions on the defining characteristics and traits of each type of Labrador, generally the chocolate lab is seen as a bit of a lush with an affinity for the show ring. The yellow lab is famously the first choice as a guide dog for the blind, and the black lab frequents television and movies as an astute hunter and birding dog. There are many things to consider prior to making the leap into Labrador ownership, however; as with any new pet, the responsibilities associated with owning a vivacious dog like a lab cannot be understated. Labrador retrievers are excellent companions for many living situations, including both single owners and large families with children. However, it should always be a decision that involves every member of the family; agreeing to adopt a Labrador is no small undertaking. These dogs are intelligent, high-energy and can be therefore difficult to train. Is the entire family on board with the challenges that come with a puppy? The issue of any other family pets that will be affected should also be given as much importance as kids. Therefore proper socialization is absolutely necessary when bringing a new dog home, and should be researched and undertaken properly to avoid any unneeded bumps along the road. If there is a suspicion that there may be undue prey-seeking behavior or that another pet may be endangered, the correct actions must be taken to prevent this, even if it means re-homing a pet or reconsidering your new puppy. Puppies are well known for their boundless energy and playful spirits, but Labradors are another thing altogether. Through many years of selective breeding, the Labrador has become well known as one of the most energetic dog breeds available, and the puppies are no different. One of the most important things to consider when adding a canine member to the family, regardless of its breed, is the space available for a young dog to roam and exercise. Labradors are generally considered a bad fit for apartments due to their energy levels and occasional fondness for chewing when bored, however, even if your family does not have a few acres for your new family member to run, as long as your puppy will receive exercise in some form or another any situation can accommodate a Labrador. Another important characteristic of the Labrador to take note of is their sense of wanderlust; they are known to be trusting of strangers and curious of new smells, and therefore wandering off can be a real danger. Fences are an excellent way to discourage this type of behavior, although in absence of this a watchful owner, adequate training and a long leash can suffice to prevent escape. Any new pet can be expensive, but Labradors can be prone to many extra expenses that should be taken into consideration before taking the plunge on a purchase. Apart from the normal costs of new dog ownership, including microchipping, vaccinations, collars, leashes, food and boarding where necessary, Labradors also demand an extra level of expenditure to make sure they live long, healthy and happy lives. Veterinary bills can also be steep, venturing into the thousands sometimes for various ailments. It is important to ask the breeder from which you plan to purchase your new Labrador retriever what sorts of medical issues have arisen previously in that particular line, what can be done to prevent their exacerbation, and how best to identify the symptoms to best head the conditions off. Finding a Reliable Breeder Will Save You on Medicines, Food, and Training Finding a reputable breeder with experience in the Labrador retriever breed will make the transition from the dam to home much easier and more comfortable for both dog and owner. Gleaning information from the breeder can help to lessen the cost for things like training and veterinary treatments down the line. A breeder should always be the front line defense for any preventable or hereditary issue. They can also be an invaluable resource on the subjects of food and training; most breeders have experience in both providing adequate nutrition for their dogs to maintain health and longevity and also how to properly train based on requirements and characteristics unique to the breed. Taking tips and suggestions from a breeder can save time and money on professional training programs and less healthy commercially available food. Questions to Ask Your Shortlisted Breeder The most difficult task involved in choosing where your Labrador will come from is selecting a breeder. There are scores of breeders who are active in most countries in North America and elsewhere, and a quick web search or a visit to a breed-specific website is a great place to begin. As with any business, all breeders are not created equal; therefore it is important to take some time and investigate each one before choosing the best fit. Some breeders do not recognize hygienic or safe environments for their litters, and many will falsify information in order to prey on the uninformed or inexperienced. Often a visit to the facility or home of the breeder is a good way to differentiate between the predatory or dishonest breeders from those who are honest, forthcoming and diligent regarding the health and quality of their lines. Once a breeder is chosen, there are several questions that can be asked to ensure that you go home with a puppy who is healthy, happy and bound for success: Will the parents get registered? What rights will I own on the puppy? If a breeder is reputable and breeding Labradors for confirmation or agility as well as pets, most, if not all, the dogs that the breeder owns, including dams and sires, will be registered with the AKC or one of its constituent. This provides information on specific bloodlines and guarantees that your new dog is indeed a purebred Labrador. The paperwork on such animals should be readily available for inspection and verification prior to purchasing a pup. Many breeders will try to retain breeding rights or a certain number of litters, or demand that you refrain from spaying or neutering if your Labrador will be a pet only. If this is a source of discomfort, the best time to say so is prior to purchasing when arrangements can still be made. What kind of socialization and environment puppy get during his breeding time? Labradors are social animals, and their socialization should start young; much like human children, their earliest environmental and social exposure will go a long way toward determining what kind of dog he or she will grow into someday soon. Another good indicator is the behavior of the adult dogs in the facility. Are they skittish or nippy? Do they seem frightened of interaction both from dogs and humans alike? When in doubt, always trust your instinct! Can you get the vaccinations chart which shall be given to the puppy? Puppies get their first vaccinations around the age of four to six weeks and will receive frequent boosters and shots until they leave their mothers at the age of twelve to fourteen weeks. Therefore in most cases, when a puppy is purchased from a breeder, many of the necessary shots have already been administered. However, it is important to note any continuing needs for further vaccinations and booster until your dog is old enough to go a year or two between necessary shots. A reputable breeder will provide you with a chart or a list of the prior vaccines, what type of prevention and when the next ones are needed in an easy to read format. Keeping your dog healthy does not end in adulthood, but it certainly begins before then. If no vaccinations have been administered or notated, this can be a red flag. Distemper, parvo, and rabies are deadly to Labradors and easily contracted, though very preventable. What all other breeds are handled by the breeder? Not all professional breeders specialize in a single breed of dog. Many experienced breeders will have experience in many different types, which seems to be a natural result of gaining experience in the field and branching out. If the number of breeds currently being kept in a single facility is too high, or if there are too many different types of dogs, this can bode ill. What is the experience of the breeder in breeding Labs? Any major cases or complaints? While many breeders have been at the game for long enough to be able to differentiate between the traits of a good dog and one who will run into issues later in life, some breeders are still wetting their feet in the art of breeding dogs. Labradors in particular, due to their popularity, seem to be an easy target in the creation of puppy mills, or facilities who breed dogs only for the financial gain that it entails. Moreover, careless breeding between two-parent dogs with serious health issues can perpetuate those problems into later generations, causing a much bigger issue with dogs who continue to fall ill to the same problems. The AKC can be a valuable resource in the selection process, due to its exquisite record-taking track record and capacity for suggestions and comments. Will you provide the initial instructions on how to handle the puppy and his pet supplies for the initial days? When purchasing a Labrador puppy, the prospect can seem overwhelming. There are so many specifics and rules to owning a young dog, including which supplies you will need, how initial training will go and what to expect from your new family member in the first few days. Tips for keeping your new Labrador puppy happy and comfortable while adjusting to his or her new digs is key to starting a new life together as smoothly as possible. Ask for testimonials and references for getting feedback from previous buyers? When we want to try out a new restaurant, where do we go first? Yelp, of course, or a similar place where we can see firsthand experiences and reviews. Again, a breeder is a business owner, so this should be a no-brainer for them; the better the service, product and plan of care, the happier his or her customers will be, making them not only likely to purchase again but also to rave about the quality of the services they received. Many breeders keep details on every puppy sold, so this should not be an issue unless the breeder has a great deal of negative feedback to hide. Is there any refund in case of fraud or insurance of any kind for the purchase? The puppy may not get along with the family cat, perhaps, or maybe a startling health problem manifests itself, such as seizures or signs of distemper. This also gives the buyer some peace of mind if there is suspicion of fraud occurring during the transaction, such as a promise of delivering the puppy personally once the payment is rendered, or raising the price abruptly. Documentation with witnesses can help alleviate the concerns of both parties and keep the transaction simple and to the point, therefore beneficial for everyone, including the puppy. Any special processing or agreement for the new owners who adopt the puppy? Again, many breeders will sell their puppies with a litany of stipulations circling around which benefits and rights cease and which persist after the puppy is purchased and taken away from the facility. Many times this has to do with breeding rights, be it a litter with the first pick of a puppy or a siring of their choosing later on. Documenting these quid pro quos is very much advisable even if the agreements seem fairly simple and straightforward, and witnesses to such an agreement can also help to keep everyone honest. Sometimes the temperament and physical skills are also passed down to the progeny. This is especially important if there are plans to use your Labrador in confirmation or agility, as both these sports require a great deal of talent; most of this talent will come from hard work and training, but not all of it. If the personalities or temperament of either parent strikes you as unbecoming, it may be a good idea to walk away and find another breeder. There are many criteria to remember when choosing your new friend; would you like a black lab? A yellow lab? Perhaps a chocolate lab? Are you looking for a companion or a sporting dog? Would a high-energy animal fit better into your household than a calm one? The best way to see if the fit is right is to bring the family to the ceremony of choosing your Labrador. Meeting each individual puppy can be useful in gauging how their personality seems to be, but just as important is observing how the pup behaves among his or her siblings. Does he or she seem like the most dominant personality there, jumping on the other puppies and causing a ruckus? Or is he or she more reserved, sticking to the outskirts of the commotion and seeming much more interested in the humans? An affinity for cuddles, or a more aloof puppy? There are many options to consider, but in more situations than not, your puppy will choose you.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. When do labs Stop Growing? Labs need to fill out more than smaller breeds as they are medium to large-sized dogs. Usually, an average Lab will be at full height and weight by their first birthday. Is Your Labrador Retriever Healthy? Labrador Retrievers are the perfect family pet. Not only are Labs wonderful companions, but their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and love for life make them ideal members of any household. The best way to guarantee that happiness? Preventative care! This condition can cause pain and make it difficult for your pup to move freely. Due to CHD, they may also develop arthritis in the hip area as they age. Some dogs with CHD have normal hips as puppies, but they can develop joint instability later in life. Unfortunately, CHD affects medium to large dog breeds, with the Lab amongst those dogs with a higher chance of developing this condition. Recognizing the early signs of this progressive disease will help you get treatment for your dog so he has an active life filled with joy instead of pain or discomfort. An old Labrador Retriever is especially prone to developing this disease. Osteoarthritis, or Degenerative Joint Disease DJD , is a progressive inflammation of the joints caused by deterioration and breakdown in cartilage. This action leads to an increase in friction, which causes significant pain for dogs. In cases of osteoarthritis, this cartilage cushion begins to break down because of factors such as age or injury. If a dog has canine atopic dermatitis, the immune system reacts too strongly to common environmental allergens absorbed through the skin, such as mold spores and grass. A dog with atopic dermatitis will typically show signs and symptoms between 3 months to 6 years of age. Labrador Retrievers are amongst the most common dog breeds to develop food and skin allergies. Gastric Distention and Volvulus Bloat Canine bloat , or gastric distention and volvulus GDV , is a condition where the stomach swells abnormally. Bloat is a serious condition that requires immediate emergency care. Dogs of all shapes and sizes can bloat, but some breeds are more susceptible than others. Unfortunately, Labradors are at the top of the list for susceptibility to this condition. The causes of bloat in Labs and other dogs are unknown, but there is likely a genetic element. Dogs who recover from bloating should never be used as breeding stock again. Got a Lab? Get Pet Insurance Coverage You love your dog like a child, but you cannot control what your puppy is dealt with in the genetics department. Health struggles can affect your Labrador Retriever, and his genes will determine what medical conditions or diseases he develops. What if cancer happens? What else might go wrong with your dog in an emergency that will require immediate attention? As a dog owner, you want to make sure that your Lab pup has the best chance possible at living a healthy and happy life. A pet insurance policy will handle any medical issue or expense which may come your way, which is a significant help, especially with how expensive veterinary bills can get. Get insurance quotes today and see for yourself how much better life will be with this coverage. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. Can you tell how big a puppy will get? Your puppy will be growing very fast when you first bring them home. But that growth rate slows down quite quickly. So when do dogs stop growing for good? And how will you know when your puppy has reached their adult size? Labrador Puppy Growth Chart We have a fascinating and long running thread on our forum, where members enter the weights of their puppies at different ages. The Labrador growth chart below shows the data we have collected, in a Labrador weight chart by age. Labrador dog weight chart by age and breed Each dot represents a snapshot in time of an individual puppy. You can find his or her age in weeks along the bottom of the chart and his weight in pounds up the left hand side. You can see how all the dots taken together follow a pattern, but there is still a considerable range of puppy weights at each age. When Do Dogs Stop Growing? But what about a two year old Lab, or a one year old? Well, in broad terms, dogs stop growing sometime between one and two years old. But it varies between breeds. Most dogs are fully grown by their first birthday. In general small breeds reach their adult height several months before large breeds do. Yet dog size varies greatly among individuals, even within the same breed. Larger dogs are often slower to mature than little dogs, and carry on growing for longer. Small dogs are sometimes fully grown by the time they are 9 months old. Whereas giant breeds can take up to three years to reach full size. Adult size, temperament, and coat type are all likely to affect energy requirements, and affect the rate a puppy grows. In fact even breeds which end up similar in size can grow at very different rates. There is very little scientific research — but a lot of anecdotal evidence — about when Lab puppies stop growing. In , a UK study following 37 Lab puppies through to adulthood revealed that all of them had reached their adult weight by their first birthday. But more recently, a much larger lifestyle study of over 4, UK Labradors found that their weight continued to increase between one and four years old. When Do Labs Stop Growing? The Labrador puppy growth chart finishes when the dog reaches adulthood. General wisdom from breeders, vets, and experiences Labrador owners is that Labs stop growing during their second year. In fact, he will be quite close to his final adult Labrador height at around nine months of age. Does color change the Labrador puppy growth chart? When is a chocolate Lab full grown? Is it the same time that a full grown black Labrador or yellow Lab? So your average chocolate Lab will be adult sizes at the same time as the average yellow or black Lab. How Quickly Do Labradors Grow? Our Labrador puppy growth chart shows that all Labrador puppies follow the same breed specific pattern of growth spurts and slower growth, even though the actual numbers on the scale will vary from individual to individual. The most rapid period of growth will take place in the first month or so after you bring him home. In , a study of Labrador puppies in Norway found that Labrador weight gain is most rapid at 89 days old in females, and 95 days old in males. So around the week mark. And Labradors usually reach half of their adult weight by the time they are 18 or 19 weeks old. How much do Labs grow after 6 months? Another trend you can see in our Labrador puppy growth chart is that Lab puppies gain weight much less rapidly after their 6 month birthday. Once your Lab has hit this milestone you can expect them to gain a little height, and probably continue to fill out for up to a year or so. In other words, the point when you Lab stops getting any taller. It is estimated that in the UK the average height at the shoulders of a male Lab is cm taller than the breed standard. Will my dog still grow after being neutered? Whether or not dogs should be routinely spayed or neutered is a subject which divides opinion. Labrador owners deciding whether and when to neuter usually end up with a lot of questions, few of which have straightforward answers. Many veterinary care providers and shelters advocate neutering at a young age, or even make it a requirement of the adoption contract. A study found that neutering before 37 weeks old is linked to very slightly more rapid growth, and neutering after 37 weeks leads to very slightly slower growth. How big do Labrador Retrievers get? As we all know, very few dogs fit the mathematical average — they are much more likely to occupy a range of normal sizes. But most of us like a more precise answer than that before we commit to sharing our home with a puppy. So, how big do Labs get? Labradors are remarkably variable in height and weight. The biggest male Labs can be almost twice the size of the smallest female ones. But you want me to give you some numbers, so here are some averages. Many adult female Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches high at the shoulder. This will be the same whether they are a female chocolate Lab or a female black Labrador. Many adult male Labradors reach a weight of lbs and stand inches at the shoulder. But remember, your dog is probably not an average dog! Can you always predict size with a Labrador puppy growth chart? These Labrador height and weight numbers are very broad guidelines, and they may give you a rough idea of how big a pup will grow. How big your Labrador will get depends partly on his parents. Assuming that your puppy had healthy not overweight parents, their own weights will give you an idea of how big your Lab is likely to grow. But there are always surprises in any group or family of dogs! Has your puppy stalled on the Labrador puppy growth chart? It is possible that your puppy will weigh less than the average examples. Labrador puppy weight and size can vary widely depending on a number of different factors, many of which are normal and harmless. American Labrador puppy growth Labrador puppies from working stock are often less heavy than those bred for the show ring or pet homes. Dogs bred for hunting and field trials tend to be faster and lighter in build because they are expected to be agile and quick when working in the field. Small parents Size is also partly genetic. In other words, if your puppy had small parents he might well be on the small size for his age, throughout his life. Again, this is only a general guide. Even puppies from the same litter can vary quite considerably in size when plotted on a Labrador puppy growth chart. How much should my Labrador puppy weigh? But this kind of rule of thumb is of limited use, and there are problems with judging whether or not a puppy is thriving by his weight alone. Because it is so difficult to know exactly what size your puppy will be as an adult, no-one can really say what he should weigh today, or any other day. It may however give you an indication if your puppy is seriously under or overweight. It is rare for puppies to have any kind of growth disorder. Or for their families to starve them by mistake! But it is also normal to worry a little if your puppy seems on the small side. Is my puppy is too fat or too thin? The very best guide to whether a puppy is the right weight for him, is how he looks and feels. Not where he falls on an average Labrador puppy growth chart. Physically examining and observing your puppy will help you decide if they are doing ok in this respect. Just like older Labradors, puppies should not be too heavy. Most experts nowadays like to see a waist on even quite young puppies. Does it matter if my puppy is a bit plump? We all used to think that puppy fat was a good thing. When I was a child fat puppies were the norm. Perhaps this extra layer of fat was helpful in sustaining the puppy during illness before vaccinations were widely available for dogs? Nowadays, the thinking is that puppies should be slim. With a defined waist, just like an older dog. It causes their bones to grow too rapidly as well. And this may result in painful skeletal abnormalities in later life. Chubby Lab puppies might be plotted higher than average on the Labrador puppy growth chart, but if they are a shorter stature they could be following the line. You need to assess your pup by how they look and feel. Weighing your puppy If your puppy has been ill and is very thin, or if he has become rather overweight , you might consider weighing him in order to monitor his progress on a Labrador puppy growth chart of your own. If you can see his ribs, or feel them very easily just beneath his skin, your Labrador puppy is too thin. If in doubt, check with your veterinarian. You can show them your Labrador puppy growth chart too, so they have a good idea of how they are progressing. My dog weighs 35lbs at six months old. Is that OK? I mentioned above that an average Labrador might weigh around 50lbs at six months old. But there is huge variation around this figure. To illustrate how much very healthy puppies may vary, there are 6 month old Labs on our forum weighing 30lbs, and others weighing 60lbs! These are very different points on the same Labrador puppy growth chart, but could both be healthy animals. And the truth is, no-one can tell you exactly what your six month old pup should weigh, or indeed your Labrador of any age. What age does a puppy turn into a dog? When does a puppy no longer belong on a Labrador puppy growth chart but instead have reached their adult size? And when will your puppy be a fully grown up dog? There are three aspects to changing from puppy to dog: physical maturity and mental maturity. Sexual maturity in puppies People are often surprised to discover that puppies become sexually mature before they are full grown. These sexually mature pups still belong on the Labrador puppy growth chart, and will gain weight and height. Most Labradors are physically capable of breeding while still puppies. Though of course they should not be allowed to do so. Many female Labradors come into season for the first time between at between six and nine months old. Though some will be over a year old. And most male Labradors are ready and willing to mate well before their first birthday! Mental maturity in puppies Not only is your Labrador physically still a puppy when he or she reaches sexual maturity. He is also very much a puppy mentally and emotionally. In fact, many experts do not consider a Labrador to be fully grown up and mature until they are around two years old. In practice, there is no exact age at which you can definitely say your puppy is a grown up. Some puppies mature mentally and physically quicker than others. As a broad guide, you will often hear people use 18 months as the divide between Labrador puppy and adult dog. When do dogs stop growing? Most Labradors will have completed much of their growth by their first birthday and will stop growing completely before their second. Beyond this point there is no need to plot their weight on a Labrador puppy growth chart, but instead they should just be monitored physically. Weights vary greatly among individuals of this breed and puppy weight unless very extreme, is not a great guide to health. Enjoy your puppy for what he is, large Labrador or small. Just remember to check with your vet if you think he is unwell or not growing as he should. Is your Labrador puppy still growing? Do you think the runt of the litter is going to surprise you by reaching the upper end of the scale? Were your predictions at X months completely confounded? Share your anecdotes in the comments box down below! The Lab puppy weight chart shows you the average weight for male and female Labs every month from 2 months old, up until 12 months if you have a puppy Lab, check out our New Puppy Checklist to learn more about what to bring home for your first 24 hours and beyond. Doing so helps you and your veterinarian keep your puppy healthy. Are There Different Sizes of Labradors? Among the retriever breeds, the Labrador is one of the largest, where an adult male can top the scales at 80 pounds. Labrador Retrievers may differ in size due to individual variation and outside influences, such as the amount or type of food they eat, the amount or frequency of exercise they get, or underlying health conditions that may affect appetite or growth. But overall, a retriever should ideally hit a 5 out of 9 on the body condition score, regardless of the actual weight number on a scale. A healthy size Labrador has an evident abdominal tuck and observable waist, viewed from both the side and top of the dog. The AKC considers Lab puppies to be in adulthood when they reach 12 to 18 months of age, though there are outliers — those who grow faster or slower, reaching maturity either before 1 year old or not until 2 years old. Like other large dog breeds, Labs go through multiple stages of puppyhood until they reach adulthood. The average height for Labrador puppies is largely unknown due to insufficient data, but the average adult Labrador Retriever gets to be about inches tall at the shoulder. These numbers are contingent on the puppy receiving top-notch care, good nutrition, and appropriate levels of exercise. Different factors, such as health, breeding practices, and nutrition, may alter these estimated numbers. The below Labrador weight calculator can help you determine approximately how big your Labrador will be. But there are dogs who will fall outside of these parameters. The Waltham Petcare Science Institute offers puppy growth charts for veterinarians to use with their clients. You can also learn more about the ideal size and weight at different ages for different breeds with our Goldendoodle growth chart , a Golden Retriever size chart , Great Dane growth chart , or Chihuahua size chart. For that advice, consult your veterinarian. However, their weight can vary quite a bit. Male and female Labrador Retrievers vary slightly in size. According to the official breed standards of the AKC , males weigh about pounds, while females weigh pounds. Almost all dogs fall within this guideline, though there may be a few rarer dogs just on the outside of the weight guidelines. Because of how carefully bred these dogs often are, this is extremely rare, though. Male Labrador Retrievers stand between .Females stand at .As you can see, males Labrador Retrievers can be a bit larger than females, though they may not necessarily be. This is particularly true for American Labs. In other countries, the weight and height minimum for males is often higher than it is in America. What does a 4-month Labrador Retriever weigh? From their birth to about six months, Labrador Retriever puppies grow very rapidly. Right after birth, they often gain about two pounds a week or more. This rapid weight continues as the puppy ages. By four months, most Labrador Retrievers weigh about 25 pounds. Smaller dogs will often stay smaller at this point, while larger dogs often stay bigger. How big is a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever? Labrador Retrievers should continue to gain at least two pounds a week until they reach six months old. Most of them will gain even more than this, putting the average weight of a 6-month-old Lab at 50 pounds. That is double what they weighed at four months. However, six months does mark the end of this rapid period of growth. The average Labrador will typically start growing slower at this point, though they will still grow for quite a while. When is a Labrador Retriever fully grown? Most Labrador Retrievers reach their full height at around six to 12 months. Typically, they grow very quickly in the first six months of their life, but this growth slows down considerably after the sixth month. After that, they may still continue to gain a little bit of height, but their full adult height has basically been reached. Many dogs are often lanky during this period for this reason. However, once they reach their full height, the calories can be put towards muscle gain and fat storage. Too many calories can make the dog grow too quickly, which can cause hip dysplasia and other problems. Your dog will have plenty of time to bulk up. Because all Retrievers such as also Flat-Coated and Golden Retrievers are very food-motivated, you need to be careful to not overfeed your dog. Is a Labrador a medium or large dog? Technically, a Labrador Retriever can fall into either the medium or large category. They straddle the line as a breed. Individual dogs will either fall at the upper end of the medium category or rest just inside the large category. For this reason, they are often described as medium-to-large-sized dogs. What is a healthy weight for a Labrador? This depends on the dog. The health range for a Labrador is pounds if they are a male and pounds if they are a female. That is a large range. A dog that is naturally 55 pounds would be terribly overweight at 80 pounds. They will be able to accurately weigh your dog and determine if they are a healthy weight or not. Why is my Labrador so skinny? Many Labradors will appear skinny as puppies. It takes them until about the age of two to bulk up to their adult weight. They will bulk up naturally as they age. Gaining weight too fast can put unnecessary strain on their joints, which can cause health problems further down the road. It may seem that your Lab practically stops growing after about six months. However, they do have growth spurts after this, and they are all focused on muscle and fat gain. This especially applies if your Labrador is a senior dog that has stopped eating. Unleash the real potential of your companion! We will email you daily with training tips, ideas and videos. This is an introductory course into our training philosophy. You will get customized video lessons based on your training goals — and you can implement them in just 5 minutes a day.

Proper care for the Poodle will involve many aspects that will all work in combination to maintain excellent health and promote learning and good behavioral habits. It is important to establish a foundation of proper care during the puppy stage that will carry over throughout the Poodle's life. We will discuss: The items that you should have to care for a Poodle puppy Details on the 5 most important tips for proper care - Feeding, house training, offering the right amount of exercise, grooming and how to offer a healthy environment. Toy Poodles and Mini's will be puppies for the 1st year; standards mature at a somewhat slower rate and are considered to be puppies until the age of 2 years old. During this time, much care is needed for both physical growth and mental development. Bringing your new Poodle home is not as simple as just picking up your new family member from the breeder. Good care involves planning ahead. It helps to have all needed items well in advance so that you can focus on the puppy without having to rush out for a needed supply items. One of the most important elements to be aware of is that no matter what the puppy has been fed since he or she began eating solid food, you should have the exact same brand on hand. Quickly switching foods can cause upset stomach and other issues…and in the case of a puppy it can be the cause of hypoglycemia. A slow change must be made. If you opt to go with a different brand or to home cook, have enough of the 'old' food on hand for several weeks, as well as the 'new' so that that you can make gradual changeover. A quality dog bed — A new puppy will feel stress going to even the best of new homes. This is why making sure that you have a nice, soft, comfortable dog bed is important. You should show your Poodle that this is the area in which he can rest, sleep or just get away from noise when things seem to overwhelming. If you will be leaving your puppy home alone during the day, it is best to have the bed placed in the area where he will be staying. A gated off section of a room or inside a canine playpen works well. The entrance to this can be left open when you are home with your puppy can of course, closed off when you are away. In this way, the puppy will become accustomed to the area. If you will be home with your puppy, place this in the corner of room that is frequently used but not chaotic. Dogs like to have their own quiet spot, but not feel isolated. Walking and ID accessories — Along with a retractable leash and a collar for ID purposes, it is highly recommended to have a harness for your puppy. Toy Poodles no matter what the age and all Mini and Standard puppies should have on a harness and not a collar when they are on a leash. When a leash is connected to a dog collar, this can create too much tension on the neck, which can cause collapsed trachea. The trachea windpipe is protected by rings of cartilage…when this happens, those rings collapse in, causing pain and breathing problems. These can be purchased at a pet supply store and come in many unique and interesting designs so that your Poodle always looks stylish. If you are not sure which harness would be best for your Poodle puppy, you may wish to look to both 'Accessories' and 'Clothing- Harness' in the Poodle Specialty Shoppe. A Car Safety Seat - Long ago cars did not even have seat belts for humans. But now, of course, we all know how many lives they save. The very same is true for dogs. Even if you are a conscientious driver, you cannot be in control of those who are driving near you. Be sure to secure your Poodle into a canine car safety seat. All it takes is 1 second of you having to quickly brake for your Poodle to go sliding off of the seat, completely unprotected. These are also great for dogs that are prone to car sickness. A raised booster seat will assist a puppy in being able to look out of the window which reduces motion sickness. However, choosing high quality toys that can stand up to continual chewing and hold a puppy's interest is better. Puppies are full of energy and filled with curiosity; having a good supply of toys at all times will be very helpful. Puppies that are in the teething phase will be experiencing discomfort and teething toys will help to sooth sore gums and offer a chewing outlet See also: Poodle teething Grooming Supplies - Poodle care certainly involves proper grooming. This includes nails, dewclaws, bathes, drying, wrapping, trimming, clipping and topknots. See also: Bathing a Poodle Clothes - Particularly for tiny toy Poodles, protection against the elements should be implemented as needed. During cold, icy winters the use of canine shoes or paw wax helps protect paw pads from ice melt chemicals and aids with traction. A sweater or cute vest can keep a small Poodle puppy from becoming chilled. During hot months, shoes help protect sensitive paws from hot surfaces. Bowls - Plastic bowls often contain heavy dyes that can cause staining on a Poodle's coat. In addition, tiny scratches that easily develop in plastic bowls can also harbor dangerous bacteria. It is best to use stainless steel or ceramic bowls for both food and water. Dishes should shallow so that a puppy can easily reach both food and water without bumping their heads or straining to reach. Toys and Mini's may like raised bowls. However, Standards - who are prone to bloat- should only eat and drink from bowls that are at floor level. Free feed until 3 months old leaving food out at all times and then give your puppy 3 meals per day plus healthy snacks. Please choose your food wisely; cheaper foods with fillers will not offer the proper nutrition needed to aid with the rapid growth that is associated with the puppy phase. You will find that if you reserve snacks and treats as rewards for training, housebreaking and command training will go smoother. Read more: Feeding a Poodle 2- Start house training right away, keeping in mind that it is your commitment to the process that will bring about success. Generally, housebreaking takes 2 to 3 months. If your Poodle puppy will be expected to use an outdoor area, do not focus too much on indoor training when the pup is home along, since it is difficult for puppies to learn 2 different methods. Do keep in mind that young puppies should not be over-exercised since it can interfere with growth plate development; however a daily 20 to 30 minute per walk is perfect. Walks allow a puppy to release pent up energy, it expands their view of the world and is a good staring point for socialization techniques and learning proper heeling. Poodles are generally very active dogs. Aside from a walk each day, this breed loves to run , jump and show off their agility capabilities. Playing catch, Frisbee or training your Poodle to jump through hoops will keep them in good health, both physically and mentally. See also: Poodle Exercise Requirements 4- Begin a routine of grooming and care. While many puppies will balk at the idea of being brushed or having teeth cleaned, doing these tasks on a regular basis allows a puppy to become accustomed to being touched and taken care of. Taking care of the teeth during the puppy stage is important since dental hygiene will affect the adult teeth that have not yet erupted. Read more: Poodle dental care 5- Limit stress, focus on fun. One of the most important elements of Poodle care is to offer a loving, safe environment. Puppies and dogs are sensitive to their owner's moods and the atmosphere of the house in general. Puppies can become easily stressed in noisy, chaotic homes. Puppies should be given a designated area to retreat and rest if feeling overwhelmed. Often, a gated off area that is secured when a pup is home alone, but the entrance is open when owners are home works best. Speak to your pup in a pleasant voice and remember that positive reinforcement for good behavior works much better than scolding for bad behavior. Take time to puppy proof the home, clearing the floors of any small items and stowing away shoes and other objects to higher ground. This should be done before bringing a puppy home but also on a regular basis. See also: What it means when a Poodle puppy shakes - If a Poodle is suddenly shivering, you'll want to look to these top reasons. Poodle Winter Care - Everything you need to know about caring for your Poodle during the wintertime. Other Articles: Apricot Poodles - This is a super popular coat color. Details and photos. Black Poodles - Another gorgeous color. Poodle tear stains - Putting to rest the old myths on what works. A list of the most effective at-home treatments to remove stubborn stains. Poodle hair tangles - Due to the nature of the curly coat, tangles are not uncommon yet should be removed as soon as possible with a method that does not affect hair growth. Are You a Member Yet? When you sign up to become a Member of the site, this allows you to receive a friendly notice when new pages of information have been added. Always something to help keep your Poodle happy and healthy. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Jaimie meets clients for 1-on-1 training, group classes owners only, no dogs , as well as live video classes. Jaimie has published videos, blog articles, and eBooks to share tips for training and his personalized insight into dog behavior. There are 24 references cited in this article, which can be found at the bottom of the page. This article has been viewed 74, times. Poodles are a popular breed of dog in many places around the world, loved for their active demeanors and sharp intelligence. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source They're excellent hunters, trackers, trick-dogs, and even excellent watchdogs that will alert you whenever there's an intruder or something amiss in the household. Learn how much and what kind of food, exercise, and grooming you should provide your poodle in order to keep it healthy and happy. All rights reserved. This image may not be used by other entities without the express written consent of wikiHow, Inc. There are many kinds of wet and dry dog food on the market, with prices and flavors varying across a diverse spectrum. Don't get overwhelmed by the variety, though. Avoid foods with a grain or other filler listed as the top ingredient. There are many recipes for homemade dog food, but all of them should have 3 fundamental ingredients: meat, vegetables, and a filler carbohydrate such as rice. For example, keep your poodle away from raw meat, dried fruit, fried foods, and allium vegetables, such as onions and garlic. There are 3 sizes of poodles: standard, which weigh between 40 and 55 pounds 18 and 25 kg , miniature, weighing between 12 and 15 pounds 5. The size of your poodle determines how much food you should give it, so make sure to follow recommended guidelines in order to avoid weight-related problems in the future. That being said, there are some rough guidelines you can use if such information is temporarily unavailable. Keeping your dog hydrated is essential to good health and nutrition: water lubricates and facilitates practically every function in your dog's body, including joint cushioning, temperature maintenance, and digestion. If you use wet food, your dog can get quite a lot of its daily hydration requirements from its food, but you should still provide a large bowl of clean water at all times. Although many of these devices were created for cats who are attracted to running water, they perform multiple functions which are also beneficial to dogs, such as inhibiting bacteria growth and filtering out carbon. You've probably seen images of show poodles displaying what looks like a wacky, poofy grooming style. While you don't need to mimic this look in your pet's style, you still need to follow a fairly strict grooming regimen in order to keep your poodle's coat from matting. In addition to weekly brushing at home, you should get your poodle professionally groomed and trimmed every 6 to 8 weeks. You should brush your poodle's teeth daily with a vet-approved canine toothpaste and toothbrush. If you've adopted an adult poodle who hasn't had prior daily dental care, get a professional cleaning done before beginning your daily regimen. This is especially important for toy and miniature poodles, as they tend to have more problems with receding gums. Just be sure to select a rawhide variety which contains no added flavor and is made in the U. Poodles don't need as much exercise as some other energetic breeds, but you should still strive to walk them at least twice a day for no less than 20 minutes per walk. Go to source This is particularly important for standard poodles, as they are the largest sized poodle and the most active. Toy and miniature poodles require less physical activity, but you should still make sure they get enough exercise to maintain a healthy cardiovascular and digestive system. A standard poodle can develop superior endurance and speed—some people have even trained for marathons with this boisterous breed! But, you should amp up activity gradually in order to avoid overheating. Scan your fences carefully for any holes or weaknesses before letting your dog run around, and don't let your dog be outside when you're not home to supervise. Poodles were originally bred in Germany to be trackers and water retrievers, so they have innately excellent senses of smell and intelligence. Field events, hunting, tracking, and agility exercises are all excellent options which let the poodle use these natural skill sets and interests while keeping it mentally engaged and physically active. Tracking training involves getting the dog to follow a tracklayer's scent over an extended distance, navigate obstacles in the terrain, and find and retrieve an object such as a glove or hat carrying the tracklayer's scent. If you're not familiar with the procedure, you can get help with this kind of training through local poodle organizations, obedience classes, or American Kennel Club chapters. Poodles are loving, giving dogs, but this also means they need tons of attention in return. They prefer to be with you at all times, so include your dog in anything you can. For example, take it with you to your kids' baseball game, out on your morning jog, and to your friends' barbecue. Otherwise your poodle will act out and keep its mind occupied through other, often destructive behaviors, such as chewing on furniture or shoes. UKC Classification: Companion Dog Prevalence: Common Poodles come in three sizes or varieties: the standard over 15 inches and 45 to 70 pounds [20 to 32 kilograms] , the miniature 10 or 11 inches to 15 inches and 12 to 20 pounds [5 to 9 kilograms] and the toy less than 10 inches and about five to seven pounds [2 to 3 kilograms]. All the Poodles share a square outline, with a long, elegant neck and a straight back. The tail is docked, but not short, so it can wave gaily. Poodles tend to have a leggy appearance and a long muzzle combined with dropped ears. They move with a springy, lively gait. The coat of the poodle is its crowning glory. Dogs competing in the breed ring must have a specific clip, with areas of extravagant hair coupled with skin tight clipping. These clips actually developed for a reason: they provided thick coat over the joints and chest to keep the dog warm while working in cold water. Many guardians elect to keep their dogs in a kennel or working clip, with the coat clipped fairly short and pompoms left on the head and tail. A few poodles are seen with a corded coat, in which the tight curls form long bands like dreadlocks. The poodle coat should be tight and curly unless brushed out vigorously. Poodles are known as good dogs for people with allergies because the hair does not routinely shed out; instead, it mat to itself. This is why poodles need clipping or frequent grooming because the mats can be painful. The commonly seen colors of poodles are silver, black, white, apricot and chocolate. Reds do appear as well as creams and blues. Parti-colors such black and white are not considered acceptable in the show ring. Personality: Poodles are notorious for their intelligence and ease of training. They are lively, active, fun-loving dogs with a sense of the ridiculous. Poodles thrive on attention and can develop bad habits such as nuisance barking if ignored or left alone. The smaller poodles can be aggressive to people outside their families or to other dogs. They should have early socialization to other people and pets and a firm hand in training. Poodles can be protective of their families and homes. It should be remembered that poodles are basically hunting dogs in elegant attire and do require exercise and training to be at their best as companion dogs. Living With: Poodles are "easy keepers," and guardians should not indulge them with treats too much. They can easily become overweight. Many poodles live a comparatively long life, with the smaller poodles reaching as much as 17 years of age, while the standards tend to live for 12 to 14 years. Grooming is a fact of life with a poodle. With the tendency of the coat to mat, poodles should have a close clip or be groomed almost daily. Show coats require frequent baths, the tying up of topknots and ear fringes and oiling of the coat to keep it from getting brittle. A steady hand on the scissors is also important. Poodles are good family dogs — fun, energetic, smart and easy to train. They do best with plenty of exercise for both mind and body and prefer to be with people most of the time. They are not good kennel dogs. Socialization should begin early and include other people, other pets and the grooming routine. These dogs are exceptional jumpers, so be careful with your yard fencing! History: While commonly associated with France, the poodle actually is of German origin, possibly descending from the barbet. The breed became "set" in type in the s, although earlier examples of poodle-like dogs are known. The word poodle comes from the German "pudel" meaning puddle or splash. Poodles started out as hunting dogs, especially good at water retrieving. With their quick intelligence and desire to please, they branched out into performing dogs with traveling troupes and circuses. Aristocracy, particularly in France, discovered the breed and delighted in both the personality and the incredible hair coat, which could be shaped in myriad ways. Despite the new image of the poodle as an elegant, somewhat spoilt aristocrat, we should remember that they are still called "caniches" in France, meaning duck dog. The three varieties constitute one of the most popular breeds in the world. Poodles shine in the glamour of the show ring, but they also work as guide dogs for the blind and police dogs. They compete in all dog sports, from running the Iditarod and herding sheep to obedience and agility. Related Pet Care Articles. What do we need to buy?!?! They have 2 doors and some have a divider to section it off while the pup is still potty training. See our tips and more page for helpful potty training tips The 42 inch crate is usually big enough for an adult poodle to still be able to stand in, which is great because adult dogs love to have their own special place when they need down time to nap in or to just relax after playing hard. The bottom of the crate is hard plastic so it's nice for the dog to have something soft to lay on. A is nice. Of course you will need. And somewhere to the food. We recommend dishes that are wider at the bottom than the top. They won't tip over. We always use stainless steel because dogs can't chew it up and they are more sanitary. Some have rubber so they don't slide while the dog is trying to eat. A bored dog will chew at it and it can cause a choking hazard. On a lot of bowls, the rubber comes off easily and can be put back on if you want later. Please avoid the temptation to feed your poodle on one! Doggie pick up are a must when you go out with your dog, most places require you to pick up doggie droppings. Some places will even fine you if you don't. But whether they do or not, it's just common courtesy to clean up after your dog. Some are even scented so you don't have to smell what's inside! You will need at least one. You can get them personalized with your contact info, decked out in bling, or even spikes! You can get them that snap close or buckle, in leather or cloth, in every color and design imaginable. I recommend getting a few different ones and seeing what you and your dog like. Keep in mind that your puppy could grow a lot, so it's usually nice to get one that can grow with her. We either use the item or items very similar to what we have listed, but not necessarily the exact brand. This page is only meant to inform people that have bought puppies from us of items similar to ones we use and we find valuable. We do receive compensation if a purchase is made. However, we can not be held responsible if a product does not work for you. You will want at least 2 or 3. Seems like they always get lost somehow! Leashes come in all shapes and sizes as well. I recommend trying a few different types and lengths and just seeing what you like the best. My husband likes the retractable kind, I like just the old fashioned strip of nylon with a clip, but there are lots of different types so have fun finding the best fit for you and your pet! Toys Toys are important for puppies as well as adult dogs. A bored dog is an ornery dog. We like pretty much everything we have ever tried from Their products seem to hold up against even the most aggressive chewers. Some have a hole where you can put your dogs favorite treat, so he stays busy for a long time trying to get at it. It also keeps you from having to touch the slobbery ball! There have been times when we have been playing with the dogs and it gets dark out in the field and all we can see is a glowing ball floating through the air as they are bringing it back to us. Some dogs don't care for them as much as a ball some love them more. See what works best for you and your dog! When you think of something chasing a light, you probably think of a kitten. We have had some dogs that absolutely love chasing a pointer. Especially on rainy days, it is a great way to use up some energy inside. Getting Started We have tried lots of different types of pooper scoopers. The best we have found is a pan and a spade if your dog will mostly be pottying on a hard surface like concrete and a pan and a rake if the potty will be in the grass. It is important to get cleaner with an enzyme to completely eliminate the odor. If any odor is left the dog will continue to potty in that same spot. You will want lots and lots and lots of paper towels while potty training a new puppy. If your living arrangements allow for it, do yourself a favor and get a doggie door. They are so useful. If your situation doesn't allow for a doggie door, bells are a great solution too. The dog quickly learns to ring the bell when she needs out. Puppies should never have full unsupervised access to your house until they have proven they will respect your home. It is much easier for a pup to potty in a corner somewhere than go outside. He could chew on cords etc and get hurt or ruin your house in a short amount of time. Grooming with Benzocaine is great for stopping the nail from bleeding if cut too short and helps reduce the risk of infection. They remove tangles, mats, loose hairs and dirt. Understandably, not everyone wants to groom their own dog. It can be a lot of work! So it is usually a good idea to have a few things on hand to be able to give your dog a quick bath or combing if the need arises before the next groomers appointment! Find one that you like! It's always best to comb their hair while it's wet. If you don't have time to give her a bath you can spritz it with a If you want to do more of your own grooming this is the I use most of the time. It comes with 2 batteries and several different length attachments. From time to time the do wear out so it's nice to have extras. A good pair of are handy for larger pups and adult dogs. Don't forget the styptic powder, just in case. If you aren't sure if you want to do your own grooming get the cheaper ones and try it out. If you like it then get the higher quality ones later! As with most of the items listed on this page, you don't have to have it, but they are things we have found to be handy. If you plan on doing most or all of your own grooming a is very useful. A is handy to have if you are going to do your own grooming. I have tried sitting on the floor next to the dog but my back is not happy by the end! They last longer than most chew treats and they help clean teeth and prevent tartar build up. Their body temperature at birth is around 94 — 97 degrees. They are not able to regulate their own body temperature so they depend on their mother for warmth. They also cannot see or hear or eliminate on their own. They cannot walk. About all they can do is smell, suckle and crawl. They are totally dependent on their mother and the environment the first 2 to 3 weeks. They are mostly influenced by their mother and litter-mates during this period. We weigh the puppies everyday the first 2 to 3 weeks. Week Two: Poodle Puppies usually open their eyes around 8 to 10 days and their ears around 13 to 17 days. While sleeping all healthy and contented puppies will twitch. This is an activated sleep, characterized by muscle twitches. This is normal and healthy. Week Three: During the third week we will often see teeth start to erupt and the puppies will start to stand and walk around. Everyday is amazing to see these helpless puppies start to become independent. At this age their nervous system is more developed so that they can urinate and defecate by themselves. This is when the puppies will also start to play a little bit more with their litter-mates. This week is very important in the puppies emotional development. They will start not only the interaction with their litter-mates but also with their mother. We never start the weaning process during this week. While mother may come out of the whelping box during this week she will never be far. Week Four: At this age the puppies will be introduced to our own homemade puppy mush and their supplement which will help grow their immune systems. Puppies are born without an immune system and depends on their mother to supply this protection through her milk. Their body temperature will usually be around degree and they will be able to begin regulating their own body temperature. Every day they will eat more and more. The puppies will start to eat more food and move around more easily. They may even start to chase each other, bark, and bite. We still weigh them at least every other day if not every day. This is the time that the mother starts leaving the puppies at longer intervals of time and start to regulate their nursing. So this is a good time for us to introduce the puppies to the weaning box and start the weaning and potty box training. Week Five: Puppies start to establish some sort of dominance in the pack. Growth and development is rapid in this week. They become very aware of their surroundings and respond quickly to training. They begin to growl, play, challenge, and learn disciple from their mother. They also develop a bit of a competitive spirit. Training ability is developed and puppies are ready to begin learning. They also start to discover their toys and play with them more. Keeping them stimulated is important. Puppies can start to control their need to potty and now know they need to move away from the sleeping area. Good experience with people from week 5 — 7 will play a large roll in how they will continue to interact. Week Six: By this time it is amazing to see that little puppy wake up and walk over to the potty box to eliminate. Puppies enter their socialization period by the end of the third week. However, the most critical period — age six to eight weeks — is when puppies most easily learn to accept others as part of their family pack. The integrating of the human family is so important and will effect them for the rest of their life. The puppy brain waves look of an adult dog by about the 50th day, but he is not yet programmed — that is the job of the human trainer, and the job of his mom, siblings and other canine family members. This is when the fun begins for all humans and puppies. We know how important this time is for puppy to adjust to humans and how playtime stimulates their little brains to grow smart and wise. We introduce them to the outside. We bring in more interactive toys. We introduce them to the pool, weather permitting. If outside pool is out we use the grooming bath for water play. They also learn not to bite the human hand ever! It is at the 7th week, day 49, that we conduct the Volhard Test. This is actual one of several that will occur through its life. Instead of meeting new or familiar people and objects with curiosity puppies start to react with fearfulness. Anything that frightens them at this age may have a lasting impact. So take care that the baby is not overstimulated with to many changes or challenges at one time. This does not mean that your puppy will grow up to be a scared-y-cat; it is simply a normal part of development where puppies learn to be more cautious. Careful socialization during this period helps counter fear reactions. Because your puppy is actively working on social skills and is paying attention to both litter-mates and humans. Your puppy is learning at an extremely fast rate. This is why we will NOT hold any puppy beyond the 9th weeks. All puppies that cannot be picked up during puppy pickup week must enter their puppy into a training program. Weeks Thirteen — Sixteen: During this phase a puppy will attempt to challenge you for dominance. Here is where they test to see just how much they can get away with and test your level of tolerance. The more a puppy is allowed to get way with during this phase, may cause the dog to lose more and more respect for his owner. This may result in behavioral issues that can snowball if not corrected through training and obedience. Formal obedience should begin here. This will assist the dog in becoming the best he can be. This is the time your puppy will begin to understand and use ranking in terms of submission and dominance. Are you the owner going to be a good pack leader? Puppies will need to be taught what they can and cannot chew. Puppies need to be taught that it is never acceptable behavior to jump on a human, small or big. This is the time that the pack leader, the human in charge, especially needs to be confident, but firm with positive reinforcement. An obedient dog, a good canine citizen, is a pleasure to be with. A disobedient dog causes stress for all and can cause damage to things and other humans. What do I mean by that? The canine depends on a human, however, he is and his thinking is canine. He needs the human to communicate and set the standards for him. If the human does not then the dog will have no choice but set his own standards, doggy style. Be prepared to be a Good, very good, pack leader! Your puppy now understands that he has a pack which may consist of both humans and canine and his behavior will be most influenced by this group. You can expect your dog to challenge you more as he explores dominance and his role in the pack. Rather they are just working out what their rank is in the pack and what is expected of them in their position. Again: be a Good, very good, pack leader! Canines that are not spayed or neutered will also start exhibiting sexual behavior during this period. Be responsible and spay or neuter you canine. Some puppy owners hire a canine trainer to come to their home to teach them how to train. Some owners learn ahead of time what they need to do and immediately begin their puppy on this program. Still others have their puppy enter into our training program. We have much information on the website about training. And for our puppy buyer we are here whenever they need any coaching along the way. Be Consistent, Persistent and always have a Routine! From the desk of Sharda Baker. This is Sharda with your Poodle newsletter. Hope this latest Poodle newsletter finds you happy and well as we will discuss your essential poodle needs checklist! We all know that there is an awful lot of to learn about all sorts of elements of life with a Poodle but this time we will be discussing a little something different. Today the topic of discussion is the Poodle items that you will need when adopting a puppy. More specifically, we will be talking about what you need, why you need it and how expensive it could be. The Poodle items here may be by no means exhaustive but it will give you a good idea of what you need to get at the pet store! In fact, you will be quite surprised at just how much stuff you will need and how much money you will need to spend when you bring him or her home for the very first time. The same actually applies to Poodle dogs if you have never had one before because he or she will need an awful lot of care to make sure that health and happiness are both assured. It can be a safe haven for your dog as well as giving you a means to start housebreaking and potty training in no time at all. Food Supplies — Bowls for food and water as well as appropriate food that is both nutritious and digestible for your new dog are essential items that you need before picking your dog up. Puppies especially need to be fed little and often so be aware of that in advance. Grooming Supplies — You will need extensive grooming supplies as Poodle items and this can get quite expensive. Combs, brushes, clippers, scissors and a good dog shampoo are all absolutely essential in maintaining your Poodle health. You may also like to invest in tear stain removal pads and other similar elements that are recommended. A Leash and Harness — The sooner you get your puppy training on the leash, the easier obedience will come. Obviously you should wait until vaccinations but it is worth planning ahead. As such, you will need a good leash and a control harness as well as a regular collar as Poodle items because you will need them during training. Toys — These may not seem like obvious Poodle dogs items but they are because Poodles of all ages are intelligent and very prone to boredom if not kept occupied. Toys will solve that issue for you. As stated before, this list of Poodle items is in no way exhaustive at all. You will find that you may need much more to ensure Poodle health and welfare from the start. Similarly though, you might only need what is here. These are the essentials and now you know what to look at buying. Just make sure that you are prepared to buy more Poodle items just in case. Anyway, I hope you have enjoyed the discussion here and have found it helpful. As always, I will be trying to cram more hints, tips and information into another Poodle newsletter very soon so stay tuned for more. All the best and take care Warmly, It was love at first site. Vet appointment — Make an appointment with your veterinarian for a well puppy visit. We strongly suggest you carry your puppy in and do not put it down except to be examined by the veterinary staff. Have fun choosing your poodles new bed, toys, bowls, brush and comb, collar and leash. Purchase some safe chew toys and a crate that will fit your puppies adult size. Look for obedience classes. Puppy proof your house and yard- You have two goals, one is to keep the puppy safe the other is to keep the house safe. Put up household cleaners. You are puppy proofing just like you would baby proof your home, crawl on the floor and look for all the trouble spots, your puppy will be sure to find them. Puppies chew, purchase some chew toys not rawhide, pig ears or greenies that are safe for your puppy. Decide where to place your puppies crate. Gate off a room or stairs if you need to. In the yard — move hoses out of the puppies play space, we have found it to be one of their favorite chew toys. Do not leave anything that will fill with water and possibly drown your puppy this includes buckets. Check for toxic plants and either move them or fence them off. Purchase a bag of puppy food — we will let you know what food your puppy is eating when they are ready to go home and will send a small bag with them. Should you decide you want to use a different food, we suggest that you do not change food until at least a month after you have had your puppy, this helps to keep your puppies stress level low. Pack a puppy bag with towels, paper towels, water and food bowls. Do not leave your puppy in the car unattended. Avoid heatstroke a car becomes hot very quickly. Plan on ways to socialize your puppy. Parvo and distemper are real health risks. Until your puppy is fully vaccinated which is 2 weeks beyond its last shot you should have people come to your home, avoid dog parks, pet stores, groomers, doggie day care and boarding. Should you decide to groom yourself read our Grooming the Standard Poodle page for equipment suggestions. YouTube is a good resource for poodle grooming videos. Basic Training for a Standard Poodle Puppy Poodles are incredibly smart, most of them love to learn new things. Standard poodles will watch and observe you throughout the day. We have one who has learned to open doors by himself. He can easily let himself in and out of the house. The poodle will learn to look into your eyes for direction. This helps to eliminate distractions and teaches them to concentrate on you. The basic commands a puppy should learn are sit, down or lie, off, leave it and stay. We recommend you use an accomplished trainer who does not use harsh methods. Clicker training is highly effective when learning new behaviors. It easily marks the correct behavior and a poodle learns very quickly. Once a behavior has been learned a clicker is no longer necessary. The effectiveness of clicker training is highly dependent on the timing of the trainer. A good trainer will teach you how to effectively train your poodle while strengthening the bond between you.

Our area has wide open spaces with majestic views of the Rocky Mountains. We are devoted to raising beautiful, healthy, well-balanced and socialized golden and labrador retrievers, goldendoodles, goldadors, bichon frises, cavaliers and cavachons. All of our foundation adults are free from hereditary problems and are backed by a health guarantee. Whether you are looking for a Golden Retriever puppy, Labrador Retriever puppy, Goldendoodle puppy, Goldador puppy, Bichon Frises puppy, Cavalier puppy or Cavachon puppy, we' would love to help you find the perfect dog. We combine excellent confirmation, exceptional good looks, intelligence and athleticism for the perfectly balanced dog. In order to achieve this goal, we begin with wonderful foundation bitches and sires that possess several generations of healthy dogs. Many of our dogs have several generations of clearances. Our puppies are bred for wonderful dispositions and temperaments to provide great companionship and use as family pets, service dogs, therapy dogs, conformation and hunting companions. You will not find more loyal, affectionate, and trustworthy companions. We look forward to hearing from you to tell you more about these wonderful pets and show dogs. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Located on a 40 acre farm east of Denver, Colorado we have plenty of space for our dogs to run around and get exercise. Unlike typical breeders we do not confine our golden retrievers to small kennels, but instead let them run and play as much as their hearts desire. Health Guarantee To ensure the health of our golden retrievers we make sure they are always up-to-date on: Health Checkups Shots Health Screenings - OFA certification for hips, elbows, and thyroids We also focus on the mental health of our dogs by keeping them happy interacting with people and other dogs on a daily basis. This ensures excellent temperaments, great dispositions, and that they are extremely well mannered. Before they are sent to their new homes each puppy gets a health checkup from the vet and their first round of shots. We also offer to microchip your puppy when you pick them up to keep them safe. In addition to all of this, we offer a health guarantee protecting against many hereditary problems. At birth: We help the mama clean the puppies so they are introduced to human scent from birth. Birth - 4 weeks old: We bottle feed the puppies in supplement to their mother's milk to ensure they are getting adequate nutrition. Handled from birth to get used to human scent Free time outside their kennel so they can explore their surroundings. Introduced to our pet cat and other dogs to become comfortable around all kinds of animals. All of the things mentioned above are part of how we ensure that our puppies are happy, healthy, and playful when they are ready to go to their forever homes. To see information about available golden retriever puppies and to see pictures from past litters click the links below. Deposits are being accepted. We are expecting litters of puppies in the middle of June. Please call Lynn so we may reserve a puppy for you! We are a small hobby breeder located in the Littleton, Colorado area. We pride ourselves in the careful, thoughtful choices in each of our breeding's to ensure the best in health, beauty and even temperament. Our puppies are affectionately raised with our family to provide proper socialization and the finest in family and child companions. Learn more here! They are serious workers at hunting and field work, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. The Golden Retriever is a sturdy, muscular dog of medium size, famous for the dense, lustrous coat of gold that gives the breed its name. The broad head, with its friendly and intelligent eyes, short ears, and straight muzzle, is a breed hallmark. In motion, Goldens move with a smooth, powerful gait, and the feathery tail is carried, as breed fanciers say, with a 'merry action. These records were released to public notice in Country Life in , when Lord Tweedmouth's great-nephew, the sixth Earl of Ilchester, historian and sportsman, published material that had been left by his ancestor. They provided factual confirmation to the stories that had been handed down through generations. Goldens are outgoing, trustworthy, and eager-to-please family dogs, and relatively easy to train. They take a joyous and playful approach to life and maintain this puppyish behavior into adulthood. These energetic, powerful gundogs enjoy outdoor play. For a breed built to retrieve waterfowl for hours on end, swimming and fetching are natural pastimes. Contact Us! Congratulations to Striker for being in the top ten historical producing sires again in .Congratulations to Amos for being in the top ten current producing sires for the fourth year in .Congratulation to Ruger for being in the top ten current producing sires for the first year in .Our dogs live with us on a five acre ranch. A canal runs through it and they enjoy running and swimming for plenty of exercise. They also enjoy getting in our truck and going to a near by pond or river for a few marks on water or land as part of their training process. They have proved to be very eager retrievers and excel in the hunting field. They make great hunters along with being excellent companions and family pets! Our professional breeding program of golden retriever puppies consists of over 28 years of intensive work to provide top quality puppies. They are bred for temperament, standards of the breed, and we strive for top quality and beautiful puppies! Our golden retriever pups are guaranteed for two years for eyes, hips, elbows and heart with a written guarantee! All our breeding dogs are cleared before we breed them. We also provide support to our puppy buyers and general advice! It is a big responsibility and commitment in raising a golden retriever pup but it is a wonderful experience! When our girls were small, we got our first golden. He soon became so much a part of our family! He was an excellent hunter and we didn't really have to train him. He had a lot of natural ability, was a great companion, hunter, obedience and all around kind of a dog. We were hooked on Golden Retrievers after owning this one. We have since had several and have found the breed to be exceptional. Since when we bred our first litter, we have learned as much as possible about breeding and training them. Hunter's Goldstrike Golden Retrievers has a goal to strive for good breeding practices along with clearances, appearances, and temperament. We also belong to the Platte Valley Hunting retriever club and have served on the board for many years in various offices. This is a huge accomplishment for him. We plan to do some Striker pups in the future as we have some frozen semen on him. Hunter's Goldstrike Golden Retrievers thanks you for looking at our website! Best Golden Retriever Breeder in Colorado? Well, we will let you be the judge, but we love our dogs like family and treat them as such. We do not over breed our dogs or participate in any crossbreeding tactics or exotic dog types. We are Golden Retriever lovers, enthusiasts, and protectors. Every dog is like family to us. While we are happy to entrust our puppies to loving families, we do have a puppy acquisition process in order to ensure our high quality dogs are delivered to warm homes that are able to care for our dogs properly. Every puppy we sell is depending on us to properly screen new owners, so please understand we take this seriously. This also protects your interests and maintains high standards for you as well. All puppies MUST be picked up in person. No exceptions. Golden Retriever Lovers Welcome! If you have a wonderful home for one of our puppies, we would love to hear from you. Whether you want a family retriever or a specialty dog for hunting, we will help find the exact fit for you. Many times there is a waiting list so apply early! If you are just getting started and would like to discuss our process, we are also eager to hear from you. Contact Us Today! Look at the current breedings or litters we have or are upcoming and fill out our contact form specifying what breeding you are interested in. Before puppies are born we only take deposits on the first pick, second, and possibly third picks on both males and females. After puppies are born and all spots are filled you will be told what pick you have. Get ready to welcome a lovely puppy that will bring all the love and affection. Tucker is now 3 born and is my best companion. Tucker is the quintessential Golden, beautiful, faithful, active, family-oriented, and geez I cannot come up with enough good things to say. Tucker is my soulmate. He makes me smile every day. If I feel bad he cares and comes to comfort me. He is so wonderful. My parents adopted another Slater Creek Golden, different parents, and she is phenomenal. So beautiful and sweet. Slater Creek Goldens are all love, loyalty and so much fun. Linda — you and your pups are my favorite ppl! Linda you will be in my heart forever.