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Mixed Breeds By K9 of Mine Staff 19 min read July 14, 23 Comments K9 of Mine is reader-supported, which means we may earn a small commission through products purchased using links on this page. Labrador retrievers are well known for their even-tempered personalities, loyalty, fun-loving natures, and complete devotion to their family members. In fact, the Labrador retriever continues to be the most popular dog breed in the US — a position the breed has held for 27 years straight! Take a gander and share your thoughts in the comments below! Note: K9 of Mine does not endorse irresponsible breeding — please keep in mind that this photo collection is intended for enjoyment and pooch appreciation, not as any kind breeding recommendation or resource. There is very little official data about mixed breed dogs, so the photos displayed here are chosen based on information given by owners. We are unable to personally verify the breed heritage of the pooches shown here — instead, we must simply trust that owners are truthfully describing their dogs with they share photos of their mixed breed canines. TL;DR: Just enjoy the cute photos of doggos! The Basics of the Labrador Retriever Before we introduce you to some of the cutest Lab mixes around, it is important that we talk about a few of the basics of Labradors. This will help you decide whether a Lab mix may be a good fit for your family! Labradors usually weigh between 60 and 80 pounds and stand about 22 to 24 inches at the shoulder. Labs have moderately long lifespans of about 12 years, though some reach even older ages. Labs are members of the sporting group, who were originally bred to help fisherman tend nets, until their owners started using them to retrieve downed birds. Labrador retrievers have a friendly, happy-go-lucky demeanor, and they usually get along with most two- and four-footers they encounter. Labs are full of energy and often make superb running or hiking companions. Labrador retrievers can make great pets for first-time dog owners, so long as you provide plenty of exercise and stimulation each day. Labs are people-oriented dogs, who thrive best in homes that are rarely empty. Labrador retrievers are generally intelligent and eager to please, making training a breeze. Labs tend to shed pretty heavily, thanks to their thick double coats. Labrador retrievers do often suffer from a few common health problems, including patellar luxation, hip dysplasia, and osteochondritis dissecans. No dog breed is perfect for all situations or scenarios, but as you can see, Labs are certainly one of the most appealing breeds in the world and they have quite a bit to offer the right family! Without further ado, here are some Labrador designer breeds that are sure to steal your heart. In some cases, like the Labradoodle a cross between a Labrador retriever and a poodle , the names are pretty popular and used widely. Australian Shepherd Lab mixes also produces some puppers with pretty adorable coat color patterns , which just adds to their appeal. These pups are best paired with active owners. But while they may have blockier builds than typical Labs, most of these guys and gals are big softies, who love nothing more than cuddling with their humans. Like Labs, American bulldogs excel at a wide variety of tasks, making them great all-around dogs for families, farmers, hunters, and more! Labs are lovable goofballs who are all about fun and games, while Akitas are no-nonsense pooches, who project an air of competence and quiet dignity. One pooch in the litter may take after the Lab parent, while another may more closely resemble the Akita. Name aside, these playful pups have energy levels that are off-the-charts, so be sure you have a big yard and plenty of time to visit the park before adding one of these dogs to your family. Well, the Beagador may be just the thing! But, they can be a bit aloof around strangers. But when you cross a bullmastiff with a Lab — a dog who views all strangers as potential pals — all bets are off! These mixes can be a bit of a house-keeping headache, as Labs shed pretty heavily, while bullmastiffs are Olympic-caliber droolers. Labs have held the 1 spot since , but the cocker spaniel has sat atop the popularity pyramid in 23 different years since the s. Note that there are two different corgi breeds the Cardigan Welsh corgi and the Pembroke Welsh corgi , and each will produce a slightly different version of this mixed breed. Either are considered Lab Corgi dogs. Doberdor Labrador Retriever X Doberman Pinscher A post shared by Charli the doberdor charlithedoberdor Given that Dobermans and Labs are both very affectionate dogs who bond strongly with their owners, Doberdor mixed breed pups will make great companions for individuals and families alike. The Doberdor loves his human family and will make it known with endless puppy kisses and loyalty. Wanna see more Doberman mixes? Check out 15 of our favorites here! You may just want to consider the Dalmador. Labs make pretty good jogging partners themselves, and Dalmatians can run for days. Honestly, there are a variety of Dalmatian mixes available for fans of polka-dotted pooches. Dachsador Labrador Retriever X Dachshund. As affectionate and intelligent pets, Labs are the perfect fit for families who can give their pups lots of love and activity. And when you combine these traits with other personalities from popular breeds such as German shepherds, corgis , and huskies, the mixes are sure to melt hearts. A Bit On Labrador Retriever Mixed Breed Health and Genetics Before adopting a new puppy, it's important to understand the health and genetics of the breed in order to provide all the loving care you can. When dog breeds mix, traits from both parents present themselves in the breed, creating both adorable physical characteristics and loving personalities as well as various health risks. Theresa Entriken , DVM, says health risks aren't meant to discourage pet parents from choosing mixes, but it's important to stay alert for as your pet ages. Early signs typically include noisy panting , a raspy bark and tiring easily with exercise, but later signs can include vomiting and muscle weakness. Before adopting, make sure to research breeders carefully and avoid breeders who aren't putting the puppies' health and safety first. And be sure to consult a veterinarian to learn about the health risks of both parent breeds. Now, on to these fun-loving mixed dog breeds! Along with being adorable and easy to train, their curly poodle coat offers minimal shedding for us allergy-suffering dog lovers. Whether you're looking for a companion to explore the outdoors or a puppy to train, this mix is sure to deliver the fun. These intelligent dogs are full of energy and affection, making them the ideal companion for any active owner. The caring and active personalities from a Lab and golden retriever makes this crossbreed a perfect fit for anyone looking for a loving, active dog. Beagles are natural scent hounds and Labs love to have fun outdoors, so this gentle mix will want long walks to sniff every corner they can. Jul 13, Share Labradors have been the most popular dog breed in the United States for quite some time. Their mild demeanor and affectionate temperament have endeared them to many. Originally bred for hunting as a waterdog, the Labrador is as intelligent and energetic as it is loving. They make excellent working dogs, companions, and family pets. But there are plenty of lovable dog breeds out there. What happens when you mix the iconic Labrador with one of these other excellent breeds? The 43 Labrador Mix Breeds 1. Boxador Boxer and Labrador mix Image By: Luke Sadler, Shutterstock Boxers are known for their bouncy, spunky, highly-energetic nature, which definitely tends to show through with the Boxador. Labs can also be a high-energy breed at times, so when mixed with a Boxer, expect your Boxador puppy to be rambunctious, ready to go, and a complete goof! The Boxador can be a pretty large dog, often reaching weights of 80 pounds while standing about 18 inches tall. All that size can make a Boxador quite the bull in a china shop when their excitement grows! But it also makes them adorable, and their loving temperament endears them to every member of the family. Like the Labrador, the Golden Retriever was bred as a hunting dog, so they both have plenty of intelligence and the desire to please their owners. Likewise, they make excellent family dogs. Golden Labradors have a friendly disposition similar to both parent breeds. After all, the Boston Terrier is just a fraction of the size of a Labrador Retriever! But surprisingly, the Boston Lab is a great pup with a friendly and loving personality that makes it perfectly suited for families. These dogs love to please their owners and will go out of their way to do so. They are also highly intelligent and much calmer than most pure Labs thanks to the more easy-going demeanor of the Boston Terrier. But look out, because the Boston Lab does sometimes show their stubborn side! When combined to make a Labsky, also called a Huskador , you can usually expect the offspring to display a similar personality. Huskies can also be a bit stubborn at times, but Labs are known for their obedience and intelligence, which can temper the stubbornness in the Labsky. Labskies can be about 24 inches tall and weigh around 80 pounds. They often inherit the long, thick coat of the Siberian Husky. This means year-round shedding and lots of maintenance. When mixed with a Lab, the resulting offspring is just as high energy and can still have plenty of herding instinct left over. Both parent breeds of the Labraheeler are highly intelligent working dog breeds. Because of this, the Labraheeler is great at training and can easily learn to perform tasks or follow obedience commands. This is a rare breed, but despite their rarity, they make excellent pets because of their loving demeanor and undying loyalty to their family. This breed sheds non-stop, so expect lots of loose hair and plenty of grooming time. But thanks to their high levels of intelligence, they can be trained well and will easily learn obedience commands. But the result is surprisingly cute; a small to mid-sized dog that looks like a small lab with short legs and big, floppy ears. What they do have are some known medical concerns. They also have interesting body proportions that can actually result in mobility issues because of how short their legs are compared to their body length. Once mixed, any of these issues might show up in the offspring. The Dachsador is starting to gain popularity. They were originally bred to reduce the health issues that both Labs and Dachshunds commonly display. Labradors are more playful and upbeat and quite a bit larger. The French Labrador is about as friendly of a dog as you could meet. This is especially true because of how closely they bond with their owners who they desperately want to please. It was originally bred to maintain the best traits of the Lab while reducing the numerous health concerns that plagued the breed. The Corgidor that results when you mix these two breeds will have the stubby legs that distinguish the Corgi, but with the face and colors of the Labrador. Hailing from two well-respected working dog breeds, your Alaskan Malador will need a job to keep it happy. They often have the colorations and markings of a Rottweiler and can grow to the same size, up to 27 inches tall. This mix makes for a very large dog that can be somewhat unpredictable in temperament. Make sure to properly train and socialize your Labrottie. But Rottweilers have shorter life expectancies than Labs, so your Labrottie might not live as long as a purebred Labrador Retriever. Labs are much more active and energetic, though. When bred together, the resulting Labernard could go either way. Because both parent breeds were bred as working dogs, Boradors have the innate intelligence necessary for training. They can learn easily, but they can also have very high levels of energy from the Border Collie side of the family, so a firm hand and plenty of patience are necessary to train a Borador. Because the Border Collie has much longer hair than a Labrador, the Borador is going to require some extensive grooming. They also have a natural herding instinct that tends to display itself around small children, so this breed is best for individuals or families with older kids. Great Danes are known to be very gentle, calm, and affectionate. They make great family pets and even do great as service dogs. Despite their large stature, Labradanes only need a moderate amount of exercise. German Shepradors make excellent guard dogs. Labollie Collie and Labrador mix A post shared by Maple mapleypup Collies are loyal and friendly dogs that were bred for sheepherding. Labradors are friendly and loyal dogs that were bred for hunting. Combine them, and you get the Labollie; a hard-working dog with above-average intelligence and an utterly friendly disposition. They have plenty of energy, but they also know when to be calm. They have lots of energy and need tons of exercise. But when you mix them with Labs, the resulting offspring can look very similar to a Dalmatian, or just barely show their Dalmatian lineage. The signature spots that the Dalmatian is known for might cover the entire coat of the Dalmador. But the Labrahuahua actually seems to work quite well! They can vary in size drastically and take their visual cues from either side of the family. But they can also be playful and happy dogs from the Labrador side. But this makes them a danger to children, especially considering their high prey drive. This breed is highly intelligent but can still be difficult to train because of their stubbornness. Once trained, they can make excellent companions, but socialization will be very important with Labrakitas. But Beagles are much smaller with fewer space demands. It gets its massive size from the Bull Mastiff side of the family and can sometimes be as heavy as pounds. You might expect such a massive dog to need loads of exercise, but the Bullmasador is a bit of a paradox since it really just needs one walk each day. This is a very loyal breed that makes an excellent companion. They are very intelligent, which makes them easy to train. Both of these breeds were originally used as hunting dogs, so the Spanador offspring they create are good-natured and very intelligent. They are excellent with children and make great family pets due to their calm, gentle personalities. Still, the Labrasenji is a dog that will need a lot of exercise each day and just as much patience to properly train them. Cavador Cavalier King Charles Spaniel and Labrador mix A post shared by Paul Martin Jones jaypjay44 Cavadors are incredibly friendly dogs, which makes sense since both parents are known for their friendly disposition. These dogs are often described as charismatic. Look out for problems like mitral valve disease and syringomyelia. They have a short lifespan of around eight years, which is common with such large breeds. When mixed with a Labrador, the lifespan will likely even out between the breeds, so you can hope for a ten-year lifespan in a Labernese. Labs tend to be friendly and trusting, but the Bernese Mountain Dog is the opposite. Socialization is extremely important with the Bernese Mountain Dog, and it will be just as important with the Labernese. They can make great companions, but make sure to socialize early on to avoid the distrusting behavior that can develop in the Bernese Mountain Dog. They have lots of affection to give and want to receive the same from their person. Labradoodles often inherit the curly mop of hair from their Poodle parent. Expect to spend plenty of time grooming to keep all that hair in good condition! Labrabull or Pitador Pitbull Terrier and Labrador mix Image Credit: Stephanie Denise Powers, shutterstock Pitbulls are muscular, stocky dogs with large heads and powerful bodies that are low to the ground. Labrabulls are easy to care for and require little maintenance. What they do need is socialization. Labmaraner Weimaraner and Labrador mix. Typical Lab mix traits The best Lab mix breeds are of course a matter of opinion. As with any purebred dog, it depends entirely upon why you want a canine companion. If you want a small Lab mix as a family companion then getting one who is crossed with a smaller, calmer breed is a good choice. But if you want a dog for sports or hunting then going with a Labrador crossed with another working breed is a sensible move. If you want a dog to have a go at agility, then a Collie cross is a great place to start. Lab mix dogs are often found in shelters or Lab rescue centers. What is My Lab Mixed With? Labrador mix bred dogs can often look very different to either of their parents. And in some cases, if the parentage is unknown it is entirely possible that they have more than one breed in their genetic makeup. If you are rescuing an older dog, the only way to know with reasonable certainty where your mixed breed dog came from, is to order a DNA test. This will give you as many as three or four generations back, and give you a great idea what breeds went into your wonderful dog. They are fairly rare, as Afghan hounds are not terribly numerous. Your Afador puppy is likely to grow to be fairly large, as both Afghan Hounds and Labradors are reasonably tall. You could therefore end up with a dog with medium to long fur, which will require regularly grooming. Afghan temperaments tend to be more aloof than that of Labs, with less boisterous enthusiasm for everyone they meet. Basset Hound Lab mix Another rare cross but one which has great appeal to some people, is the Bassador. They are on average around 14 inches tall as adults, with body proportions suiting a larger breed of dog and shortened legs. Working line Basset Hounds tend to be in far better shape than their show bred cousins, and this is where you should start your search if you have your heart set on a Bassador. Border Collie Lab Mix Border Collies are incredibly intelligent dogs, who work very well with their owner if properly trained. Loyal to their families, and fairly indifferent to everyone else. They are quick to learn and can be taught a mind boggling range of activities through positive reinforcement training. The show dogs tend to be the least driven, although still high energy dogs that require a lot of stimulation. Like Labs as puppies they can be very nippy. This can express quite strongly around children, as they attempt to herd them around. They are not generally therefore recommended to families with very young kids. They do however often make excellent pets when older for active, busy families who enjoy training and working together. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are without a doubt some of the friendliest little dogs in the world. They are charismatic, fun and loyal. They also have a fairly good average lifespan of 11 years. However, there are a couple of big, scary health problems associated with large numbers of this breed, so be very careful and do a lot of research if you are thinking of bringing one into your home. Health problems impacting a vast quantity of these little dogs include mitral valve disease , a heart problem which causes early death, and syringomyelia. This is a neurological problem caused by the size and shape of their skulls, not allowing their brain and brain stem to be properly accommodated. Two very popular breeds of gundog with a lot of similarities, this is one of the cross breeds where can be fairly confident of the type of Lab mix you will be getting when you bring home your puppy. Goldadors are very popular seeing eye dogs. They are well known for being intelligent, fast learners and very co-operative with their handlers. Like their Golden Retriever and Labrador parents, they tend to have very friendly temperaments and love spending time with their human family. Golden Retrievers are similarly sized dogs to Labradors, but with a far longer and wavier coat. Most Goldadors seem to have shorter fur more like the Lab parent, but this is not guaranteed. Bernese Mountain Dogs tend to be fairly calm and aloof as adults, and require a lot of dedication to socialisation when they are young due to potential nervousness around strangers and guarding tendencies. Due to their size, they are not really recommended for homes with young children or frail adults. Bernese Mountain Dogs are very large, growing up to 28 inches tall and weigh up to pounds. They also have a long coat, which requires a lot of grooming to keep in a good condition. Unfortunately like many extra large breeds, Bernese Mountain Dogs do not have very long life expectancies, averaging around 8 years long. When looking at longevity size is a big factor, and giant breed dogs regardless of whether they are mix bred or not will have shorter lifespans. You could therefore expect to see your puppy potential live fewer years than the average purebred Lab. They are utterly beautiful dogs, and if well managed can make wonderful companions. Labmaraner The Weimaraner is a beautiful dog, and an intelligent one too. Like all members of the gun dog group he has been bred with co-operative working in mind. Although he tends to be slightly less people focussed in general than your average Lab. This means that they are not as obsessed with greeting everyone when you take them for a walk. However, they can also be a little harder to engage in the training process and in some cases be even more driven than a Labrador. Like Labs, Weimaraners can also be prone to separation anxiety when left alone for long periods. Labradoodle Labradoodles are the most popular Labrador Retriever designer dog breed at the moment. A Labradoodle will not necessarily be a non-shedding dog, and may require some extreme grooming or very regular visits to the poodle parlour in order to not become matted. Pitbull Lab Mix The Pitbull Lab mix should be a great family dog, full of energy, with a short, easy care coat. Rottador or Labrottie Rottweilers crossed with Labradors are known as Labrotties. Or Rottadors. And they can be incredibly beautiful and dedicated companions to their families. Rottweilers can be up to around 27 inches tall, with big heads, deep chests and well muscled bodies. They are powerful dogs and need commitment to positive training from day one from their families in order to understand how to behave in their homes. Rottweiler temperament is also quite different to that of your average Labrador Retriever. There is no way of knowing which of his parents your Labrottie will take after. Rottweilers are a guarding breed. Extremely loyal to their family, but known to be wary of strangers and unpredictable around children if improperly socialised and managed. Your Labrottie puppy must be very well socialised, just as you would with a pure guarding breed dog. Make sure he has regular positive contact with people of every age, and is familiar with things like beards, hats and unusual items of clothing. Springador Springer Spaniels crossed with Labs are often referred to as Springadors. They can make fabulous pets or working dogs, but can have the extremes of both breeds. They are not for the inexperienced or inactive owner. Springers are very lively dogs with an incredibly high prey and hunting drive. They benefit from positive reinforcement training from an early age. In general Springers have great temperaments. However, there are some working lines which have nervous aggression problems and fixations on light chasing. Make sure that you meet the Springer parent to ensure that they are confident and not agitated. English Springer Spaniels tend to be smaller and lighter than Labs, with a longer coat. Springadors often have shorter coats, and can look a lot like a slightly shaggy black Lab with a few white markings. Lab Mix Temperament When you buy a mixed breed dog, their temperament will be a product of their varying lineage. They could end up with any mixture of the two lines temperaments, or something completely different. Make sure to meet both parents to ensure that they are confident, friendly characters. If both lines are happy, loving dogs then the chances are good that your puppy will be the same. Photo kindly provided by N Pappalardo. If your Labrador is a known cross, then you can make an educated guess that he could be anywhere between the average sizes for those breeds. However, it not always the case. And with a Labrador mixed with unknown other dogs, then they really could be any size at all. The Labrador element to their genetics does not limit their growth. Nor do they mean that they will definitely have any specific height to them. There will potentially be huge variation even within the litter. I grew up next door to a family who had two Labrador x Terriers from the same litter. One looked exactly like a Labrador in every way, except she had very short legs. The other was Labrador height but with a totally different shape. If size matters to you, then a purebred puppy or dog over 18 months old might be a better choice. Lab Mix Health Mix breed dogs can still be susceptible to the diseases carried by their parents. Especially if those diseases are common in both breeds. The Labrador parent should have a clear eye test of less than a year old. They should be PRA clear, and have a lower than average hip score. For full health testing for Labs check out this article. The other parent may also need a clear eye test, and a good hip score. The most important thing is to pick a puppy whose parents have both had all of the health tests relevant to their own breed. And whose personalities you would be happy to see replicated in your pup. Alternatively, look for a rescue dog that you have met and fallen in love with yourself. Should a Lab Mix take after their Labrador Retriever parent, they will be a playful, energetic, and affectionate dog that loves their families. Labrador Retrievers are energetic dogs that tend to have an extended puppyhood. They are also social, friendly, and tend to be patient and gentle with children. This makes them fantastic pets as they also tend to get along well with other dogs and even other pets, despite their retriever tendencies. If the other parent breed has a similar temperament, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. You still want to ask questions about the other parent breed as they are bound to introduce some potential quirks of their own. Although Labs are happiest with room to run, they adapt well to apartments as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and affection. They also do well in most climates, but do not like to spend long stretches of time alone. If the other parent breed is also highly adaptable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Are mixed-breed dogs healthier than purebred dogs? As with purebred dogs, health often depends on reputable breeding practices. Just as a mix can inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they could also inherit all of them or some combination of them. From the Labrador side, potential health concerns to be aware of in a Labrador Mix include patellar luxation , hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and cataracts. The other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential conditions to this list. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. Labrador Retrievers are highly trainable dogs that can be a good fit for owners of any experience level. First-time owners may have a challenge at first with their high energy and exuberance, but tend to be successful. If the other parent breed is also highly trainable, then you can expect the same from a Labrador Retriever Mix. If the other parent breed tends to be more challenging to train, then you will want to be prepared for that potential and be ready to enroll in puppy training classes if you need them. A Lab Mix can end up with a coat similar to one of their parents or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should they inherit the Labrador Retriever coat, it will be short and will shed throughout the year with heavier shedding as the seasons change. Weekly brushing and the occasional bath keep a Lab coat healthy. Trimming nails once or twice monthly keeps them from growing too long. Because dental care is often overlooked, gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth every day or using an enzyme toothpaste daily in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Labrador Retrievers are high-energy working dogs that need plenty of exercise and a job to do to be happy. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you should expect a Labrador Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed sits in a lower activity range, you will still want to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog should they take after their Lab parent. Fully-grown Labrador Retrievers tend to stand inches tall and weigh pounds. The other parent can have a big effect on this, especially if they are the mother. Labs generally live for years. Although the other parent breed could affect this slightly, you should be able to expect a similar average life span from a Labrador Retriever Mix. Featured Labrador Mix Article. Labradoodle Parents: Labrador Retriever and Poodle The teddy bear-like Labradoodle is a medium-sized breed that has a curly coat similar to the Poodle and the sweet face of a Lab. If you are looking for cute and cuddly, the Labradoodle is definitely for you. This hybrid was first bred for their adorable appearance and low-shedding coat. The most common genetic line is the F2b generation. F2b labradoodles normally shed less than other mixes as they have more Poodle in them. However, just because a dog sheds less hair does not make them hypoallergenic! Labradoodles have fun and contagious personalities. Most will have the quick wit and trainability of the Poodle while also having the loving and gentle nature of a Lab. This personality type makes them perfect for families with young children, other pets, and even those with disabilities. Goldador Parents: Golden Retriever and Labrador Retriever Have you ever wanted a Golden Retriever, but did not want to commit to their long coats and high shedding? This Golden Retriever mix may be what you are looking for. Goladadors have a short coat that does not need much grooming beyond brushing. The Golden Retriever and the Labrador have many similarities in personality and body size. That makes this mix fairly predictable when compared to other mixes in this list. The personality of the Goldador is gentle, loving and friendly. Boxador Parents: Labrador Retriever and Boxer Are you looking for a dog that is both loyal and a running buddy? Many people love Boxadors due to their fun-loving nature and how extremely friendly and sociable they can be. With the boisterous energy of the Boxer and the loyalty of a Lab this breed is perfect for any family, especially those who love spending time being active outdoors. Boxadors sometimes need early socialization training to make sure they do not become overly bouncy or overprotective of family members. But, generally these traits can be easily removed. Borador Parents: Border Collie and Labrador Retriever Boradors were one of the first labrador mix dogs and have been popular since the s. They are great for anyone that loves herding dogs but wants to avoid extreme energy and exercise requirements. This breed is friendly, attentive, loyal and is relatively easy to train. However, training the Borador is more difficult than training a Labradoodle because they need to be socialized a lot as a puppy. For any herding breed, socialization is important to reduce their protective aggression towards strangers or nipping at the ankles of children. This mix is best in a home with children over the age of 10 due to its desire to herd younger members of the family. Labrabull Parents: Labrador Retriever and Pitbull Labrabulls are a large-sized affectionate adventure buddy. Many people love this mix due to their desire for adventure and loyalty to their families. This breed has a muscular build, an extremely short coat, and weighs 45 to 90 pounds. This fun-loving and energetic lab mix goes by many names, the most popular include the Labrabull, the Bullador, and the Pitador. If you adopt this mix, it is important to note that your Labrabull will need to be properly socialized. Many types of Pitbull dogs have been labeled as aggressive. But, when trained properly they can be very affectionate to everyone they meet. They are not only large in size but they also have the biggest hearts. Typically, this mix is very human-oriented and enjoys living in a big family home with many people to give them attention. Like the Great Dane, the Labradane will often forget how big they truly are. You should be prepared to own the largest lap lab of your life! Despite their large size, this breed is great with young kids. If you love the beautiful merle pattern of an Australian Shepherd, but do not want to deal with their high energy, the Aussiedor is perfect. This mix is very similar to a Mini Australian Shepherd but, due to the calming Lab genes, has less energy. This mix stands at around 18 inches tall and their coat can be long and flowing, like the Australian Shepherd, or short and dense like the Lab. Aussiedors are very intelligent, in order to not become bored they need a job. A bored Aussiedor can quickly become destructive in the home. Retrieving the mail, or playing fetch with the kids, will help to reduce boredom and keep them busy. This mix is very loving and loyal with high energy levels. These qualities make Beagadors excellent pets for families with children who also love to play. However, this Beagador can become easily bored, since both parents were originally bred for high energy activities like hunting and scent detection. Because of this, they may become destructive or howl loudly from loneliness. Make sure to offer this mix at least 60 minutes of exercise a day. The Labraheeler is your perfect match. Blue Heelers were first bred by breeding Australian Collies to the wild dingo to help cattle farmers in Australia. This lab mix will do best in a family that loves physical activity, especially in the great outdoors. This fun loving breed stands between 20 to 28 inches tall and is not able to live in small homes or apartments. They need a large yard to explore and release extra energy and a family that can provide at least 60 minutes of high intensity exercise a day. Huskador Parents: Husky and Labrador Retriever Many dog owners love Huskies, but not all of them love their wild and loud nature. If you love the beauty of the Husky, but you want a dog that is calmer and not as loud, the Huskador is a good choice. A Huskador can look like a Lab, with dark soulful eyes, but most lean towards a Husky and have beautiful blue eyes. You may even be lucky and get a puppy with one brown and one blue eye. The coat colors will vary greatly based on whether a yellow, black, chocolate or silver lab is used for the mix. The personality of the Huskador can be highly variable too, just like any mixed labrador breed. Some will be calm and loving, others will be high-strung and energetic like the Husky. With plenty of training and early socialization Bulladors can also make a great pet for adults. If you have toddlers in the home, it is best to adopt another mix. They are a great dog for active adults who can provide a large backyard to play in. Labmaraner Parents: Labrador Retriever and Weimaraner The gorgeous silver coat of the Weimaraner looks like something from a fairy tale. Luckily, many Labmaraners share this brilliant silver color too. Labmaraners are a large dog breed weighing in at close to 80 pounds. They are taller and heavier than a traditional English Lab but are smaller than a Great Dane. This breed tends to be more aloof than most Labradors, so you will not need to worry about them wanting to stop to greet every dog or person they meet. This mix prefers to be loyal to one or two people. One trait that both the Lab and the Weimaraner share is the potential for developing separation anxiety. It is likely your Labaraner will develop this trait. German Sheprador Parents: German Shepherd and Labrador Retriever There are many people who love the appearance of a German Shepherd, but not many have the time and energy to devote to their doubled-layered coat and difficult personality. If this sounds like you, consider bringing a German Shepherd mix home. They make loving and loyal dogs. German Shepradors love to do a job, just like their Labrador parent. They love retrieving, agility courses, and using their intelligence as a service dog. German Shepradors are also used for airport security as police dogs. Their appearance can vary greatly, some will be a solid black or golden color and others have the classic saddle-back markings of the German Shepherd. This breed can also have the stereotypical upright ears of the German Shepherd or the large floppy ears of Labs. Dachsador Parents: Dachshund and Labrador Retriever The Dachsador is one of the cutest and smallest labrador mix breeds. This dog is an adorable small-sized mix that weighs less than 30 pounds and stands at 15 inches tall. They almost look like Miniature Labs! They are perfect for anyone who does not want a large lab. This breed is also very playful and loves to snuggle, which makes them a great pet for families with young children. Their unique appearance is sure to draw attention! Both the Lab and the Dachshund have a wide variety of genetic based health conditions that are different from one another. Breeding them together helps to create a breed that has a decreased chance of inheriting these conditions from either parent. This is known as hybrid vigor. Dachsadors tend to be a very healthy little pup! If you want a dog that is as loyal as a Labrador, is a constant companion, and loves to curl up on your lap, the Spanador may be perfect. This mix also does well with children of all ages and makes a great playmate. The only downside to this super cute puppy is their availability. Do not be surprised if you are put on a waiting list until one of these cuties can come home with you! Dalmador Parents: Dalmatian and Labrador Retriever Dalmatians were originally used as a guard dog for horses and carriages. Many people love the striking spotted appearance of the Dalmatian. The best way to make sure a Dalmatian does not have aggression issues, is to mix it with a calm and friendly dog like the Lab; this is why the Dalmador was bred. Springador Parents: Springer Spaniel and Labrador Retriever If you are skimming through this list of labrador mix dogs to find a hunting breed, then read more about the Springador. This mix is the perfect size to load into a truck and bring into the backcountry. Sprigadors have sweet and loving personalities, but do not let their cute faces fool you. Their Spaniel genes make them working dogs that have an incredibly high hunting and prey drive. However, once this breed has had a good workout, expect a cuddle a good cuddle and nap on the couch. The Springador is best suited to a home that is cat free, as they will likely chase and terrorize cats. They are also not the best choice for a home with small children. Springadors prefer to have some space which toddlers do not always understand; this could result in accidental nips. This loveable breed tends to weigh around 25 pounds and stands 10 inches tall. Labrahuhuas are usually bred by artificial insemination due to the size difference between Labs and Chihuahuas. One of the best traits of this breed is that you will never feel lonely. Both the Chihuahua and the Lab are very people oriented, so if you are looking for a fun-sized companion, this is the breed! The Labrahuahua does best in a large family where someone is home most of the day, but they can adapt to apartment living as long as they have plenty of toys at home to entertain themselves when left alone. The Shar Pei was originally used as a Chinese fighting dog, so protecting your home and family will come naturally to this mix. They are extremely loyal and obedient to their owners, but they do have a tendency to be aloof to strangers. The face of the Lab Pei looks similar to a purebred Shar Pei just with fewer wrinkles. Most Chabradors have a standoffish personality towards strangers, but will be very loyal and affectionate towards family members. You will need to make sure your Chabrador puppy is exposed to many different kinds of people, different ages, sizes, races, and genders. There are many reasons why you may want to consider bringing home this fluffy Lab Mix. But, there is a price to pay for their very thick coat. Regular grooming, brushing and cleaning will be absolutely necessary. This giant breed typically weighs between to pounds. Gentle and sweet, the Labrenard is happy to be used as a working dog or as a loveable family pet. The Labrenard may turn heads due to their very large size, but they love meeting strangers and other animals, even very small ones. If you have the space for a dog that is gigantic in size and heart, the Labernard may be the perfect fluffy breed for you! The Doberman is a popular breed that has been a favorite of many celebrities such as John F. Kennedy, Kevin Hart and Mariah Carey. Their sleek dark figure and striking markings give the Doberdor a wow-factor only black dogs can have. The Doberdor is a large breed that will typically weigh between 60 to pounds. They are very similar in size to a purebred Doberman, but their body type tends to be stockier. Doberdors are friendly, playful, and almost too smart for their own good. If you are ready for a dog that has amazing beauty and personality, but maybe challenging to train, consider bringing home a Doberdor today. Pugador Parents: Pug and Labrador Retriever Pugadors are an adorable curly tailed breed who are always ready to be your favorite lap dog. Many Pugadors will have a partially curled tail and a wrinkled face. This medium-sized labrador retriever mix is perfect for someone who loves Labs but wishes they were smaller. Thanks to Lab and Pug genes, the Pugador is affectionate, gentle and loyal. They make a great family pet and like to live with a family that is home most of the time. This is because Pugs have a fear of being alone. If you own a Pugador, you will likely not be able to walk down the street without someone asking to pet your sweet and loveable puppy. Labrakita Parents: Labrador Retriever and Japanese Akita For someone who loves Japanese culture and wants a dog that radiates grace and dignity, consider bringing home a Labrakita. Labrakitas have many similar qualities of the Japanese Akita including their size and body type. This mix is a large dog and will have a boxy, muscular body. Both parent breeds are working dogs, so it is no surprise that this mix is best in a family that is able to provide at least 90 minutes of walks per day. A downside to the Labrakita is a weariness towards strangers. They need early socialization and positive reinforcement training to reduce the chance of this aggression becoming an issue. Vizslador Parents: Vizsla and Labrador Retriever The next dog on this list is another hunting breed that is particularly talented at pointing and tracking. Due to the excellent genes from both the Lab and the Vizsla, the Vizslador is extremely intelligent and active. It is very important to make sure they get at least 75 minutes of intense exercise per day. This breed is definitely not all work and no play, they also love to show affection and have the purest of hearts. If you are looking for a mix that is truly meant for work and play, then consider making a Vizslador part of your family. Labloodhound Parents: Labrador Retriever and Bloodhound The Labloodhound is a lab mix that arguably has the longest ears of any breed on this list. Bloodhounds are known for their larger-than-life droopy ears, wrinkly face, and their somber expressions. The Labloodhound may not have all of these features, but they do have some of their Bloodhound roots and are just as cute in their own way. The personality of the Labloodhound is very contagious. They are often very outgoing, happy-go-lucky, gentle with everyone from children to the elderly, and love nothing more than to please you. Traits like these have made this mix important in many different jobs such as drug detection, hunting, and search and rescue. Rottador Parents: Labrador Retriever and Rottweiler The Rottador is a large dog that is tall and muscular, just like their Rottweiler parents who were originally bred to drive cattle to market and pull carts for butchers. Many Rottadors have the beautiful markings of a Rottweiler with the long face and ears of the Lab. Rottweilers and Labs have very different personalities, so this mix can have a wide range of personality types, even more so than other Lab Mixes. Some Rottadors will be calm and gentle and others may be protective and weary of strangers like Rottweilers. Summary Each Lab mix is truly unique and has a different personality and appearance from other mixes. To understand more about your puppy, it is very important to learn about the temperament and history of both parent breeds. Mixes like the Labradoodle, Goldador, or Labradane are great for families with young children. Families with limited space may prefer a smaller breeds like the Pugador or the Dachsador to complete their family. Some mixes in this list are great working dogs and prefer to live in homes without young kids. Rottadors make a great guard dog while the Vizslador makes a great hunting companion. Regardless of what Lab Mix you prefer, there is one thing that will always be true; each is beautiful and wonderful in their own special way. Let us know if you have adopted one of these mixes in the comments. She has worked with many dog patients over the past six years as a student and a veterinary technician and enjoys client communication and education. Her favorite dog breeds are Salukis, Boxers, and Weimaraners. You May Also Like.

Share 0 Shares 8 weeks is often the age at which our beloved Goldendoodle puppy should be ready for pickup from their respective breeders. At this stage, the Goldendoodle puppy should have gone through a lot to ensure they come out perfect, healthy, and strong. Even with all that, the puppy still has a lot more development to do, and you as its new owner are a critical part of this development process. With that being said, this article provides you with everything you need to know about the 8 weeks old Goldendoodle puppy. They should have gone through basic socialization and training programs to help them get more comfortable in new situations. We would provide you with valuable information on what to expect from your newly gotten Goldendoodle, the processes they would have gone through, and what needs to be done to ensure they grow strong and healthy. What To Expect From a Week-old Goldendoodle Puppy 8 week old mini Goldendoodle As stated earlier, the 8-week age range is the time period at which you should be getting your Goldendoodle puppy from their respective Goldendoodle breeder homes. With that being said, depending on how reputable the breeder is, your Goldendoodle should already be properly socialized or introduced to the basics of proper socialization. This is highly important as even though Goldendoodles are incredibly nice and generally happy dogs, an unsocialized Goldendoodle can develop some erratic traits or behaviors that can be caused by stress from being in unfamiliar situations and seeing unfamiliar faces. And since your new Goldendoodle friend should be seeing you for the first time around this stage, socialization is a high necessity. They should also be healthy and fully checked by a licensed vet. Reputable breeders know the importance of vaccinations and deworming for Goldendoodles and all dogs in general. With that being said, your new Goldendoodle puppy should have received all the necessary shots and deworming that are appropriate for the exact age range they fall on. And as an extra, some Goldendoodle breeders make an effort to introduce or start their Goldendoodle puppy on the basics of certain training programs like basic commands, potty, and crate training. If this is the same for you, then you are expected to further improve on the overall training your new Goldendoodle gets as they are no longer under the care of their breeders. First Week Schedule With 8 Week Old Goldendoodle Puppy After receiving your Goldendoodle puppy from the breeder, the next and best thing to do would be to have them properly checked or examined by a licensed vet. Have them properly examine your Goldendoodle puppy and be sure they are free from any issues that might have been overlooked by the breeder. While the puppy is with the vet, have them properly vaccinated and dewormed to keep them healthy and strong. You also would want to ensure they are properly trained and exercised to ensure they are in the best of shapes and behaviors. When it comes to socializing your new Goldendoodle puppy, there is a great way to go about it. The idea is to make sure your Goldendoodle puppy familiarizes itself with every possible situation and possible human interaction it can possibly be exposed to. There are three key focal areas you should prioritize when it comes to socializing your Goldendoodle puppy. The first should be human interaction. This is highly important when trying to familiarize your Goldendoodle with your household and friends. Ensure you regularly introduce your Goldendoodle to people of various age groups and appearance structures. This can include them trying out different attires and looks on your Goldendoodle to ensure they are comfortable with people in any form they might appear in. For the second socialization priority, focus on general experiences and stimulations that the Goldendoodle puppy might get introduced to in the future. This can come in a variety of sounds like car horns, vacuum cleaner noises, and a host of others. Different textures can also be introduced to the Goldendoodle and a host of other feelings as well as sights. Take your Goldendoodle puppy exploring, and let them soak in different experiences that can help shape them into becoming bright and generally happy dogs. So occasional swimming, car rides, and regular walks would definitely help them get properly socialized. The third area or focal point when it comes to socialization should be interacting with other dogs and animals. If your Goldendoodle was raised on a farm, this can help a lot with getting them socialized with farm animals and other pets. This can be regular doggy daycare or home. Just ensure they are carefully vetted before handing over your precious Goldendoodle to them. Identifying how big your Goldendoodle would be at 8 weeks of age can be a bit difficult to predict. This is because the size of the Goldendoodle can be affected by lots of different variables and factors. Even though an 8 weeks Goldendoodle is technically still a puppy, their sizes can be influenced by the exact size class they fall under, teacup, petite, and standard Goldendoodles could each possess different sizes and weight classes at that stage of their life. But on average, your Goldendoodle should fall between the range of 3 pounds to 12 pounds in weight. The height also depends on the overall size class they fall under, with an average of 7 to 12 inches. At this stage of the Goldendoodle puppy, you should also expect that they develop a ferocious appetite. This is practical because they are at the peak of the growing stage and they require all the necessary nutrients that could further make them healthy. The required nutrients for a Goldendoodle puppy at this stage are protein, carbohydrates, and fat, alongside other nutrients like vitamins, calcium, and a lot more. The exact feeding schedule should be based on the size of the 8-week-old Goldendoodle puppy. This can be spread across 3 to 4 different meal servings for that day. This also works for even smaller sizes of the 8-week-old Goldendoodle puppy like the petite and teacup size class. When looking at medium size Goldendoodles puppies, at 8 weeks old, you can consider providing them with more food than you would a small-sized Goldendoodle. You can spread that across 3 to 4 servings to ensure they are well-fed but not overfed. And as for the standard-sized 8-week-old Goldendoodle puppy, you should consider feeding them 1 cup of Goldendoodle kibble each day. This can also be spread across 3 to 4 servings each day to be certain they get all their desired nutritional requirements. Even the 8-week-old Goldendoodle puppy can be seen as energetic, they are still pretty young and deserve all the sleep and rest they can. Their immune systems and overall bodies require all the sleep that they can get. With that being said, ensure you provide your 8-week-old Goldendoodle puppy with over 18 to 20 hours of complete sleep each day. This should go on till they are at least 20 weeks old, at which point their entire sleep schedule can then be reduced to 13 hours minimum. And as such, it is highly important that you let your Goldendoodle get all the desired rest even though you might feel very tempted to play with them. It is highly important that you do not overwork your Goldendoodle, especially during their puppy stage as their bodies and the overall system is still very fragile and easy to injure. With that being said, you should regularly exercise your Goldendoodle pups and keep them healthy. Start them slowly by introducing short minute walks each day. This can be done between 1 to 3 times each day, totaling 30 minutes of mild exercises for them. Remember to do this in a safe and controlled environment where they would be free from any harm or health issues that might affect them. You can also introduce them to small games like mild fetch or perhaps tug. As theory gets older perhaps 4 months and above , you can proceed to increase the overall time limit for exercising your Goldendoodle and even add more games for them to play and generally have fun. Training Your 8-week-old Goldendoodle Puppy Training your Goldendoodle puppy might feel like a daunting task and who can blame you? Sometimes it feels like they might be having a hard time understanding basic instructions. But the Goldendoodle is a wonderful dog to train. They are quite intelligent and are more likely to pick up instructions and learn faster than the average canine dog or breed. When training a Goldendoodle it is always a great idea to adopt a gentle and kinder approach to training. This method is called positive reinforcement and it is proven to be much more effective on Goldendoodles than simply being stern and authoritative. This way, you can keep them interested long enough for them to learn new tricks and techniques. In fact, there are three possible pieces of training they can undergo at such a young age. These are;. Now, whether you already have a dog or have yet to pick him up, it would be good for you to learn what to expect this month with your Dood, both developmentally and as a new Doodle parent. However, as your puppy transitions to his forever family and home, socialization is more important than ever now. To help reduce the fear of the unfamiliar as he grows older, your job is to start helping your new companion meet a variety of beings, including babies and children, men, dogs, cats, and birds. It is also a good idea to introduce him to: People of all ages, including kids and older people. People of all appearances, including men and women. Different kinds of attire, including hats, sunglasses, and coats. Unfortunately, I know from experience that if he grows up without meeting kids when he is young, he may never feel comfortable around them as an adult. As a result, they may act out of fear and potentially hurt kids. As such, he may develop irreversible behaviors leading to antisocial behavior, fear, or aggression. Rather, it should just begin before that time. A good rule of thumb is to have puppy meet different people by 12 weeks of age. Expect your puppy to react with fear in different situations, which is a very normal part of puppy development. Offer them a variety of new experiences and reward your puppy for exploring them. By 12 weeks of age or so, they will begin teething. By the end of this month, he should have better control of his bladder and bowels. He may begin to sleep through the night without accidents or potty breaks — yay! Your Dood will need more and more food as he grows. Be sure to feed him times a day right now to support his rapid brain and body development. Before bringing your 2-month old puppy home, find out what food the breeder was feeding him and use that same food as he adjusts to his new home. After a few days, you can start making the switch to a different puppy food if you want. Feed your 2-month old puppy an appropriate amount of food. On the other hand, if he often leaves leftovers in his bowl, reduce how much you give him. Use our feeding calculator if you need and be sure to keep track of his growth using our awesome growth tracker! Related Content. There might be days or even weeks when it seems to regress, but as long as you stay calm and stick to the training schedule and daily routine, your doodle puppy will thrive. Remember, the younger your pup is, the shorter its attention span and the less it understands. A lot of the earliest work involves planting seeds for the future and maintaining that consistent routine. Many goldendoodles respond best to one or more of the following methods: Positive Reinforcement Your number one tool as a puppy parent is positive reinforcement. Scolding and punishment will make it fear you, which might garner very short-term results but will ultimately lead to long-term problems like destructive behavior, biting and excessive barking. Use a mixture of praise and toys as your primary rewards, with food used as big rewards and treats very occasionally. Clicker Training Many puppies respond best to clicker training, and many professionals use it. It combines positive reinforcement with a handheld clicker that you press whenever you reward your pet for following a command or behaving well. Very quickly, it starts associating the click with a reward, until the clicker itself becomes the reward and a treat is no longer required. Animals are territorial by nature, and giving your pup a little island of its own in your home is a great way to prevent unwanted behaviors. Remember, the crate is not a punishment. However, like every breed, they have their character quirks. Below is a list of the main issues doodle owners encounter and how to approach them. Jumping All dogs have the potential to get excited and jump up on people when they meet or greet them, but this can be scary for strangers and children. Teach your doodle puppy that it only gets a reward if it sits when greeted and this behavior will eventually become second nature. Stealing Food Every dog loves to eat. A clicker can be particularly good for this behavior. Mouthing and Biting Biting is natural for dogs, and they might use it as a way to get your attention in addition to it being a sign of aggression. Check out our training program to find out more. Predicting the mature size of a puppy is by no means an exact science, especially with a hybrid breed like the goldendoodle. How big will my goldendoodle puppy be? From birth until the gotchya day, puppies have fluctuated back and forth in terms of who weighs the most. Even though adult weight is a bit of a guess for a young puppy, expect mini goldendoodles to weigh 4lbs-9lbs at 8 weeks of age. A medium puppy and standard puppy may both weigh 9lbs at 8 weeks old, but the standard puppy with gain weight at a quicker rate than the medium. Like most dog breeds, goldendoodles generally do the majority of their growing in the first six months of life. In fact, many mini goldendoodle puppies reach half of their adult weight by four months. Standard goldendoodles may take a month or so longer to reach that halfway mark. The larger the dog, the longer growing takes. For mini goldendoodles, expect the weight to start leveling off between months of age. Standard goldendoodles, like other large dog breeds, will grow for a longer period of time. While this rule may work for many standards, it is not accurate with smaller-sized goldendoodles who finish growing at a younger age. When will my goldendoodle stop growing? Dogs can finish growing anywhere between years of age, but generally reach their maximum height by a year of age and spend the remaining months filling out. This means your dog might hit a growth spurt right after her first birthday — she might not get any taller but she could thicken up. Golden retrievers grow at a slower rate in terms of height than standard poodles, but fill out more quickly. Golden retrievers tend to finish growing and filling out between months while standard poodles can take up to 2 years to accomplish the same. Established breeds generally reproduce naturally, whereas first-generation mini goldendoodles require artificial insemination. Subsequent generations of hybrid breeds i. F1b, F2b, etc. F1b goldendoodles can potentially have a slightly more predictable size range if the parents are similar sizes. Our 19lb F1 goldendoodle and 24lb poodle produce F1b mini goldendoodle puppies ranging in weight from lbs as adults. Embark is a canine genetic testing company that offers a variety of canine disease and trait tests in their panel. Order an Embark testing kit off Amazon , send in that quick cheek swab, and Embark will happily send you the results. Check out our goldendoodle puppy time lapses to watch various goldendoodles grow up right before your eyes! If you would like to submit data, please complete our quick survey or email goldendoodles timberidgefarms. Growth patterns vary from dog to dog but there are some generalities you may find helpful. Remember, this is a guide only, not a guarantee! Thank you for your support! 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 this:. There is so much your little guy needs to learn to be a polite, lifelong family companion — where do you even begin? We are here to give you a broad overview of some basic tips of where to start with teaching your new buddy. Follow these three steps to begin training your 8 week old doodle puppy. The good news is if you welcome a JLDD puppy, we have already done some of the hard work with crate training for you. At JLDD we introduce all of our puppies to the crate at weeks of age! First, they are first placed in a crate with another littermate. As they get older, they begin to spend small amounts of individual time in the crate each day. We give our pups an excellent head start, but as the owner, it is up to you to follow through with structured crate time even if your pup objects at first. The first few days can be extremely difficult, but your consistency will pay off. Many owners find it difficult to be consistent because of their worry that their dog is miserable with crate training and, true enough, the puppies can sound really pitiful in there. But stay strong and remember that you are actually helping them in the long run to have a safe place when they must be left alone. A good crate training foundation will be very helpful in curbing separation anxiety and will make traveling, boarding, grooming, etc. Once the pup accepts the crate as his personal space, he will often go there on his own to rest. Keeping a routine is key so your pup knows what to expect. Allow pup to settle for about five minutes before you let him or her out. The only time this does not apply is in the middle of the night. Potty Training When people ask what they need to know before buying a doodle , this is the big one! And it can be very intimidating for owners. Bring all your consistency and patience! Keep in mind most puppies will not be fully potty trained until at least weeks. We start our young pups on puppy pad training so puppy pads can be a helpful stepping stone to outdoor potty training when you first bring your dood home. Keeping the area small and puppy pads easily accessible will help your pup stay consistent. Many owners find it is an easy transition to slowly move the puppy pads to the designated outdoor area closer to the door, then right outside the door, etc. Other owners prefer to jump straight into outdoor potty training. Here are a few basic tips: Frequent potty breaks. When your doodle is awake and playing, taking him out as frequently as every 30 minutes is important when they are young. When pup does potty, immediately praise and reward him with a treat. Always use the same exit to take your puppy out. This will help them learn where to head when the urge strikes! Eagle Eye. Scolding your pup for an accident after the fact is generally ineffective as he will not connect the discipline to the moment of the accident. We work on basic obedience and conditioning as early as weeks with our pups at JLDD by waiting until the pups sit to give their food and treats. Remember that basic obedience is critical for establishing the owner-dog relationship early on. It teaches your doodle that he must look to you for direction and when treats are involved that looking to the human for direction is lots of fun! Doodle puppies are extremely clever and can easily learn the basics such as sit, stay, down and come in their first couple weeks at home with you. Stay positive and keep training sessions short. End the session if you find yourself feeling frustrated for any reason. Furthermore, doodles are a sensitive breed and generally highly trainable so most respond quite well to positive training methods. Typically, simply ignoring unwanted behavior and rewarding the desired behavior will produce the intended results. If you're looking for a fully trained doodle to bring home, JLDD provides an awesome course for new puppies. We hope the advice in this article helps aid the teaching of your dog! Be sure to share your best tips with us at contact jennaleedoodles. Post not marked as liked4 Recent Posts.

Shop All Cat Food While you may have assumed that all dogs are natural swimmers, this isn't necessarily true. Yes, some dog breeds do well when they're in water, but other dog breeds may be more likely to struggle in the water no matter how much they dog paddle. Take a look at the list below of dog breeds that can't swim. Which Dog Breeds Can't Swim? For example, brachycephalic breeds — those with flat faces or extremely short snouts — are generally unsuited for swimming because it's too easy to get water up their noses, making them a drowning risk. Dogs with large, barrel-shaped bodies struggle to stay afloat, as do dogs with long bodies and short legs. Dogs with long coats or thick double coats can also struggle with swimming. Finally, some breeds simply cannot withstand the shock to their system brought on by a plunge into cold water. Wondering which dog breeds can't swim? Here are some of the more commonly known dog breeds that might prefer staying on land. If you have one of the following dog breeds listed below, it might be worth reconsidering those regular beach trips. Bulldogs Both English bulldogs and French bulldogs possess the triple threat of flat faces, barrel-shaped bodies and short legs. In other words, bulldogs simply aren't made for swimming. Only one of these traits would make swimming a challenge for these dogs, imagine having all three! So, in the land of dog breeds that can't swim, bulldogs are king. Pugs While pugs might enjoy wading and splashing in shallow water, their flat faces make breathing a challenge during the best of times. Add in the exertion of trying to keep their head above water, and it's hard to get pugs to stay above water. For many brachycephalic breeds, including pugs, keeping their faces above water means tilting their heads back so far that their back ends dip too low, says PetGuide. Bull Terriers Despite belonging to the active terrier group, the bull terrier's combination of short legs and a deep chest makes it struggle to stay afloat. Even the breed's close cousin, the Staffordshire bull terrier , who is a much larger dog, wouldn't necessarily make a better swimmer as the dense, heavy muscle and oversized head on this breed also presents a challenge for these dogs in the water. Basset Hounds Besides the fact that the body of a basset hound isn't designed for swimming with their large heads and short legs that make it difficult to stay afloat , the large, floppy ears that are the trademark of this breed are prone to infections when water gets in the ear canal. Boxers This is another large, athletic breed you might think would be a natural-born swimmer. But the flat face on the boxer makes swimming just as dangerous for these dogs as it is for the more diminutive pug. The struggle to breathe and keep their noses above water means boxers may tire quickly and run the risk of drowning if in the water too long. Corgis Despite having an affinity for water, neither the Cardigan Welsh corgi nor the Pembroke Welsh corgi are strong swimmers. This is due to the combination of a long body, barrel-shaped chest and disproportionately short legs. So, it's best to let them enjoy splashing in shallow water. Dachshunds As with corgis, the elongated body and short legs of dachshunds make them poor swimmers. Even swimming in shallow water can tire the dachshund's little legs out to the point of danger. Keep a close eye on them when they're around any amount of water. Shih Tzus Like many of the smaller breeds, shih tzus have a number of disadvantages when it comes to swimming. Not only can the shortened muzzle and small legs make it difficult to keep their nose and mouth out of the water, but their long, full coat can weigh this breed down and also cover the face, making breathing even more of a challenge. These little dogs can also catch a chill from spending too much time in the water. Water Safety for Dog Breeds that Can't Swim If you're already the pet parent of one of these breeds, or you have a dog with similar physical characteristics, it's important to take steps to keep your pup safe around water whether it's a pool or on a boat. Here are some helpful tips for things you can do: Invest in a good doggie life jacket and put it on your pooch whenever they're near a body of water, including your swimming pool. Look for one made with waterproof materials that's rated for the size and weight of your dog, preferably with a handle on top that would allow you to quickly haul them to safety. The fit should be loose enough to be comfortable but tight enough that they won't slide out of it. Stick to the shallows when taking your dog to the lake or beach. Encourage them to wade or splash in the water if they enjoy it, but don't force them to get in the water if they don't. Either way, keep them from wading in over their heads. If you have a swimming pool, put a fence around it to keep your dog out. The best fences aren't enough to keep some dogs out, so consider installing a ramp that would allow your dog to easily climb to safety if they fall in the pool. It's also a good idea to teach your dog how to swim safely. The best method, says AKC, is to allow another dog to show your dog the ropes. Look for a friend's or neighbor's dog who is a good swimmer and who plays well with your pooch, and invite them over for a supervised play date in the pool. Your dog will learn what to do from watching the other dog. Just be sure your pup is wearing their life vest during their swimming lesson. Supervise your dog closely at all times whenever they're around water, including shallow water. If you still want to provide your poor swimming dog a way to cool off in the heat of summer, consider investing in a small plastic kiddie pool. They're shallow enough to allow your dog to stand in the water, while still allowing them the fun of splashing in the pool. Not all dogs are good swimmers, and this isn't an exhaustive list. Sometimes, even dogs who were bred for swimming and water activities don't enjoy swimming. Bath time aside, you should never force any dog who's averse to water to swim or play water sports. Dogs may have a built-in instinct for knowing how to dog paddle, but that doesn't always mean that they can tread water as easily. She currently lives with her husband and their gaggle of four-footed dependents in the Ozarks, where she enjoys watching a wide array of wild animals in her backyard while drinking her morning coffee. Seems like a great day to go for a swim with your Bulldog, right? Not so fast. Because Bulldogs are hefty yet dense, you may wonder if your Bulldog will sink or float. Most Bulldogs can swim, but not very well. Features of their facial structure, such as a short nasal passage, require Bulldogs to tilt their heads up while in water. As a result, swimming is much more difficult for Bulldogs compared to other breeds. Bulldogs just require more training and patience to learn. Plus, there are things to know before you send your Bulldog into the pool. We look into all the physical qualities that suggest a Bulldog may not be great at swimming. Forget the retrieving — they have a difficult time simply swimming! Instead, Bulldogs were bred for an illegal bloodsport, that is, bull-baiting. Even though there are plenty of non-water dog breeds that are excellent swimmers, the Bulldog is not one of them. So why is it that Bulldogs are less capable of this popular physical activity when compared to other dog breeds? They all seem to have a much more difficult time staying afloat. In the dog world, we call these type of dogs, brachycephalic dogs. These breeds with brachycephaly have many ailments and potential health concerns primarily due to a short nasal passages. For example, Dr. Rowena Packer DVM claims that this facial structure restricts airflow and can make it difficult to breath. In order for these Bulldogs to get sufficient oxygen during swims, they will need to tilt their heads upwards while in the water. With such a disadvantage in the water, Bulldogs can easily drown without proper supervision of equipment. Fat is made up of saturated oils, which are likely to float on water. When our Bulldog was a puppy, we took him to a lake where he was swimming. Excited to see the lake, he ran down the pier and sank like a rock. Of course, this may not be the case for all Bulldogs. After all, these dogs are very prone to obesity and developing fat. Imagine this: you have a rock and a piece of wood that weighed the same. Throw them both into the water. Which is more likely to sink, and sink quicker. Most likely the compact rock. A Bulldog may sink in a similar fashion if not careful. For example, some Corgis famously known for their short stubby legs are decent swimmers. They have a lot of power in their thighs, which help them propel in water. However, when you combine this dwarfism trait with all the other physical difficulties that a Bulldog has, it makes it that much more difficult to swim. Despite popular belief, the Bulldog is actually a true dwarf breed, according to I Heart Dogs — like with the Welsh Corgi or Dachshund. A dwarf dog breed is characterized as a breed with abnormally short legs compared to the rest of the body or to standard dogs. So as you can imagine, having a short legs make it a lot more difficult for dwarf dogs to paddle. Is Your Bulldog a Good Swimmer? In fact, there are plenty of videos of skilled Bulldogs swimming on YouTube. Though, plenty of them have practiced and use safety precautions. Here are 10 owner responses from the popular Bulldogs Subreddit and other forums. We take him to the beach with a minimum of 3 people so we can catch him in the water and turn him back to shore. My Bully is a great swimmer, but it really tires him out fast. With preparations and equipment, all Bulldogs can enjoy this wonderful activity too! But make sure they will have supervision at all times while in water. Just remember that you should never force your Bulldog into the water. If they like it, great! If not, you can try again some other time. When it comes to teaching your Bulldog how to swim, patience and consistency are key. Use a Life Jacket for Bulldogs Before anything else, I strongly suggest you get your Bulldog a life jacket prior to swimming and training sessions. A life jacket helps even the playing field. With that said, the best life jacket that we currently use with our dogs is the Kygen Outward Hound Life Jacket. If your dog likes to wander far, the bright color options make them visible even when it gets dark. Bulldogs can come in all shapes and sizes. However, make sure to check the size charts for better accuracy. You will need a tight and secured fit on your dog. Dogs are more courageous and get less anxious during their puppy phase. You can also use a kiddie pool if you have one. Reward your dog for getting into the bath tub without water. For example, if you have plans to swim at a lake, take your Bulldog for a walk around the lake. Have the dog sniff the water and maybe even get his feet wet. We suggest you do this for a week or so prior to going to the lake. You just want to get the dog comfortable to seeing the body of water. At this point, the dog may be ready to move on to the next step. But only in the shallow area. Ideally, you would want to venture out to the point where the Bulldog can still stand up. Yes, I know, they have short legs and stature. So, try not to venture out too far yet. At this point, your Bulldog needs to have the life jacket on. What works well, especially if your Bulldog is food-driven, is to bribe the dog with treats. Positive reinforcement is key for this step. And if your Bulldog has a favorite toy, such as a ball or frisbee, bring that to the swim session too! Try throwing the ball into the shallow end and see if your dog will retrieve it. Keep the dog in the shallow end for a considerable amount of time. Though, you can feel out your dog. Swim With Your Bulldog! According to ClickerTraining , the best way to get your dog to swim is by going into the water with the dog. After all, dogs are fantastic visual learners. This will be necessary as you try to get your Bulldog into deeper waters. Dogs, including Bulldogs, look up to their owners for validation and safety. Try not to become anxious or freak out! Not only will this instill a lot of confidence in the Bulldog, but it just makes the swim session that much more enjoyable. Always keep an eye out and stay close. A good approach is to slowly go into the deep end and bring their favorite treats. More likely than not, your Bulldog will start heading towards you. Make sure to reward your Bulldog if he does come! Like with children, dogs will also learn from other dogs. Chances are, there are a ton of parasites and bacteria in the water that can cause some harm to your Bulldog, such as intestinal problems. Home tap water will work. All dogs adjust to being in water at different paces. Some will instantly jump in with little fear, while others will be timid. This can be done over a course of a few days, or few weeks. It depends on your dog. Has your Bulldog tried swimming? Do they enjoy it? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:.

It is also cheerful, happy and friendly, also getting along well with strangers and greeting them happily, a trait inherited from its Pug parent, which does not make it an efficient watchdog. The Shug dog also shares a good rapport with children of every age but should be socialized before they get to interact with dogs or other pets. Care Exercise Because of its active nature, it needs to be taken out for a brisk walk on a regular basis, coupled with sufficient play time. They would also do well in an apartment, provided they have sufficient toys to play with or enough stuff to be kept busy. Grooming As they shed less, their grooming requirements are also low, sufficing with a weekly brushing for excess hair removal. You should also wipe its eyes and ears with a moist cotton ball on a weekly basis, brush its teeth and clean its nails, to maintain proper hygiene. Health Problems Though a healthy and hardy breed, it might develop some of the health concerns of both its parents like hip dysplasia, breathing difficulties, gastric dilation volvulus, bloating, arthritis and brachycephalic syndrome. Training Its inherent intelligence may make it easy to grasp training, though it needs a firm master who can deal with its strong-willed nature tactfully. Socialization: Teach your Shug puppies to get along well with other pets as well as people whom they do not know. You can invite friends to your home who have dogs or even take them to a dog park so that they may be acquainted with other dogs and gradually get to know how to interact with them. Obedience: You should train your Shug puppy with commands to control its stubbornness. Once it succeeds, reward it with treats and praises. Practice this many times so that your dog instantly comes the moment you call him even if it is distracted by something else. Housetraining: This should be started simultaneously with obedience training. Take them outside every 2 hours from the beginning. Always make your dog eliminate at one particular spot so that he can associate it with relieving itself. Reward it appropriately with praises and treats whenever your dog does a good job. Feeding Give your Shug dog high-quality dry dog food in combination with a nutritious homemade diet. However, overeating may affect their health adversely, so you need to keep a check on their diet. Leave a Reply Your email address will not be published. Lifespan Sociability Shugs are a new breed for the market so putting a price on them is pretty much the Wild West at the moment. You can try your luck at your local dog shelter when searching for a dog and you might be able to find a mixed dog that resembles the Shug. When you bring a Shug into your home, be ready to have a playful and sociable dog with you. They love spending time with their family and are known to be quite needy so make sure you can spend a lot of time with your dog if you decide to go after a Shug. On the one hand, this is actually a good thing. On the other hand, it means that breeders can sell any puppy and call it a Shug without any repercussions. Talk to other people who have bought puppies there, and look for any negative press. Shugs are different from Pug-Zus. A Shug is a mixture of a Pug and a German Shepherd. Pugs are the favored dog of royalty. Move over, Corgis! They love playing and getting attention. First, they love strangers too much to be good guard dogs. Nowadays, Pugs and Shugs are more likely to rush over to interlopers and wag their tails than to bark and summon help. Second, Shugs are prone to separation anxiety. Again, nothing is a substitute for meeting the pup and its parents before any money changes hands. Choose an organic dog food with real ingredients , avoiding by-products and gluten meal, and feed your Shug two cups per day. It loves a brisk walk through the park as much as it loves to eat and nap. In order to maintain its healthy weight, you should exercise your Shug about 45 minutes a day, using a combination of walks and toys. If it gets more of its German Shepherd side, it will be able to handle longer walks. If your Shug looks more like a Pug, go easy on the outdoor exercise on hot days. The good news on that front is that Shugs are happy to spend most of their time indoors. This makes them great dogs for people living in apartments. However, German Shepherds are work dogs bred to accept training. Shugs are almost never aggressive. Their biggest problem behaviors are disobedience and potty training. To housebreak a Shug puppy, consistency is key: take it outside at regular intervals, and make sure it always relieves itself in the same spot. Brush its teeth and nails at the same time, if you can. Dysplasia is more common in German Shepherds, while obstructed airways are a bigger risk for Pugs. Bloat and allergies are potential problems in both breeds. Minor Conditions Allergies: Both Pugs and German Shepherds might suffer from allergies, which can cause red, itchy skin around their eyes and ears. German Shepherds frequently suffer from dysplasia, a trait they can pass down to Shugs. An honest breeder will screen out parents who might be at risk of dysplasia. Male vs Female Male and female Shugs look and act very similar. On average, females are about an inch shorter than males. Compared to the differences between mixes that favor one parent or the other, though, gender distinctions are pretty minimal. Separation anxiety and stubbornness are a problem, as is the fact that this breed is a bit of a barker. See also:. His face and personality was all pug, I didn't notice any German Shepherd traits other than his coloring and size. He loves dogs, people, and pretty much everything else. He is very food-motivated as well, and will drool at the sight of food. He makes little honking noises when he runs the pug part of him , especially when chasing new friends at the dog park. He loves to chase the skunks in his backyard too. He also loves snuggles, and will usually sleep in and go to bed at night when he is tired all on his own. His owners are Chelsea and Patrick Lapienis, with the former telling Newsweek: "He's a lovable goofball who is super sweet and very excitable. He loves playing fetch, hide and seek, and even has some puzzles that he likes to solve. He loves meeting people and dogs alike, and is friends with his vet. The adorable mutt is a result of a pug crossed with a German Shepherd. Chelsea Lapienis She revealed his unusual parentage, adding: "We were told that the mother was a pug, and the father was actually a 6-month-old German Shepard who wasn't fixed yet. They don't usually breed this mix, so he was definitely a surprise. He was 7 lbs when we got him at 2 months, so he was a decent size. When we met him, it was an instant attachment, and we are so happy that we added him to our family. He is also a huge cuddler who loves to snuggle when possible. He has very high energy levels and very low energy levels at times. At first glance his body resembles a German Shepherd, but where does that curly tail come from? Place your bets on his unique mix, but you will never guess it. This is Goblin, and he's a pug and German shepherd mix. While I assume this was an oopsie, somewhere out there there's a very determined pug daddy who must be held accountable for making every owner from this litter laugh for the next 15 years. Turns out Goblin's mom is a pug, and his dad was a six-month-old German Shepherd. Chelsea Lapienis De Prophetis, who's been a professional pet groomer for more than 10 years, talked viewers through the grooming process, including sharing some excellent slow-motion footage of Goblin being blow-dried. She continued: "After his bath, I towel him dry, and I spray him down in our quick dry spray and he is very excited to show you how adorable he looks, in the not so happy hoody. During his blow dry I noticed that my favorite thing about him is his flapping nostrils. While the pug part of him tried to stay positive, the German shepherd part was not enthused. After he is dry, I de-shed this majestic mongrel, with the EquiGroomer, and then I clip his nails. Pugs are usually difficult for nail clipping, and naturally he had to give me some sass. So I gave him the finger. He made me laugh for an hour straight. And that only continued as he bucked around my yard. Thank you so much for watching, I hope you enjoyed the goofy Goblin. Sweetums reckoned: "I refuse to believe this isn't just two pugs in a trench coat. While Plague raved: "He's beautiful. I've never seen such a great mix. Its ears may be erect like the German Shepherd or floppy as that of the pug. Its tail also bears a striking resemblance to that of a pug, curling comfortably on its back. Goblin is a year old, and his litter was an accident. ET: This article was updated with comment, video and photos from De Prophetis. ET: This article was updated with comment and photos from Lapienis. These medium sized pets hail from crossing two great breeds-the Pug and German Shepherd. These medium sized pets came into existence by crossing two great breeds-the pug and german shepherds! The Shug dog is a mix of many different breeds, but its closest relatives are the Pug and German Shepherd. It has similar features to both parent breeds including an erect or floppy ears depending on how their owner cares for them. The tail curls nicely at either end like that found in Pugs as well. The Shug Dog Breed loves to cuddle and hang out on the couch, but this breed also really likes playing fetch. They make fantastic watchdogs too so rest assured knowing this little guy will always protect those he loves. They are also playful, which can be fun for you. However they will bring their fair share of mischief into the relationship too. He has the perfect personality for any household. Height: Shug dog breed ranges from inches. Weight: This breed weighs from lbs. Lifespan: Life expectancy is from years. Coat: Small coat. Shedding: Less than normal routine. They need to be Socialized, just like all dogs! These German shepherd mix breeds are not ones who can hang out by themselves for long without getting bored easily in fact their energy level might make some people feel queasy and can be counted as playful dogs. German Shepherd Pug Mix is an intelligent dog just like its ancestors. A solid connection between people and their companion animals builds an emotional foundation for bonding that can strengthen lifelong relationships through mutual understanding. As this one might exhibit stubbornness similar to that found in Pug ancestry which could lead them into mischief as well as strong willed nature after being trained properly. The wide, low-set muzzle that enables them to find their prey easily while keeping an eye out for danger gives way as it becomes longer so the dog can see further with less effort than its shorter counterparts. With a stocky build and round face, the Shug is similar to both its parents. Their ears may stand up proudly but will also have some floppiness due to their Pug heritage too. It is very common for breeders of designer hybrid dogs to crossbreed multiple generations. A Shug may seem like a doe-footer at first, but they quickly inherit the stubbornness of their parents. When they need more power in order accomplish tasks such as pulling heavy carts or chasing small animals like rabbits across fields of wheat where visibility may be limited by weather conditions these traits become evident once again due lamb ears which stand erect when alert but have soft edges because this breed was originally developed from livestock herding methods not hunting ones! Having a Shug dog is like owning two dogs in one. A little ball of energy with an adorable face, the pup will be your best friend for life if you give it space to explore and unleash its personality! The coat on these little guys varies from smooth hairlessness all over their bodies like humans to short hairs around them where they stand or lie down so get ready because no matter what kind yours looks likes there might still have some unique features that make them stand apart from other breeds such as wrinkles being considered good luck by the Chinese — another reason why yours should always stay hydrated while walking outside. If left on their own for long periods of time or without proper training they might become destructive as well; chewing everything within reach and barking constantly when bored! Below factors can be beneficial for their grooming: Socializing: One should try to make their Shug dog breed puppy socialize with other pets and people that it does not know. Invite friends over, take them for walks at a dog park so they can get acquainted before getting an animal companion of their very own! You could invite some canine companions. Once this has been mastered then you can teach more complex ones like staying at one place for quite some time while waiting patiently with treats , walking on different surfaces without getting distracted too much—and even jumping through hoops! This pup needs to be brushed at least once per week or else dirt will start building up on their skin which could lead the animal down a bad path of infection from scratching constantly in an attempt to remove this unwanted residue. Not only do they have an adorable face, but Shushers shed minimally and require very little maintenance. A Shug dog breed life is full of challenges, from needing to stay clean in order not to be uncomfortable when you visit their home for hours on end with no bidet or proper restroom facilities. Fortunately there are some easy solutions that will make things easier. You should check your Shug dog ears regularly and trimming nails every month or two will keep her pretty clean. If your shug shows any labored breathing or difficulty taking rapid deep breaths while running errands on summer days then be sure to bring him inside. You may be wondering how a Shug dog breed will do in winter? Get him some water and use cool clothes on his body while providing plenty of shade for rest in order to avoid passing out because this condition causes confusion as well which makes taking care easy too tricky at times but not impossible. You should not encourage your Shug dog breed to work through training. It is crucial that you keep track of the meals they eat so as not overfeed or underfeed! Hip dysplasia and elbow displacement are reduced in occurrence with this type of breed as well! Final thoughts on German Shepherd Pug Mix: Shug dog is a cross between two popular breeds that have been bred to avoid the biggest problems with each. Shug-pugs combine elements of German Shepherds and Pugs, which makes them perfect for city living where space is scarce but your dog still needs ample room to run around in addition to being able breathe easily indoors without having allergens stick around like peanuts or dust mites from old furniture pieces left out on dirty floors! Shug dog breeds are a great choice for families! Not only do they have the intelligence and playfulness of their German Shepherd genes, but also an affectionate personality that makes them happy to be around. The Pug side of Shug genetics means that these pups are relaxed which makes for an easy going personality if your new pup friend or relative resides at home with you. Post navigation. Where should you look for a shug? What is a shug? It might not be that obvious from the name, but the shug is a result of crossing the German shepherd with the pug. Thanks to the diverse possibilities of genetic combination, the resulting puppies are unique. In fact, you can get significant diversity in the same litter although all are born from the same father. Crossbreeding is usually a challenge since carrying German shepherd pug mix pups to term for any pug mother can be risky. It is also a challenge for the pug males to impregnate a big German shepherd female. As a result, the insemination and fertilization process are artificial for the German shepherd mother. The process uses the sperms from the pug father. In most cases, the German shepherd and the pug parents are purebreds. How does the German shepherd contribute to the awesomeness of a shug? Although German shepherd was an exclusively herding breed, people have trained them over the years to be outstanding guard dogs, guide dogs, and service dogs. Their exceptional intelligence and lifelong aptitude for learning have aided the process. They are amazing family dogs shug dog due to their loving nature. They are faithful guide dogs for the disabled and search-and-rescue dogs for the police. The military forces and police forces in the US rely on GSDs due to their incredible ability to learn fast. They can be indifferent and aloof towards strangers. However, incorrect socialization, improper training and lack of enough activity can cause them to become aggressive and destructive. They are not natural loners and leaving them alone in an apartment can result in aggressive behavior problems and separation anxiety. They have the tendency to act dominant especially in an environment with other pets and smaller children. Unless you can train and socialize your GSD properly, you should think twice before leaving them with an unknown sitter or your children and other pets at home. They become bored frequently and not paying them enough attention will lead to chewing problems. Why are pugs the ideal parent for a mix breed pup? Pugs have recently shot to popularity thanks to television commercials and Hollywood movies. They have become an integral part of the pop culture. Although they were nearly as popular as GSDs about two decades ago, they have been around longer than most dog breeds. Their first mention is in the works of Confucius in BC. They have always symbolized royalty and luxury. There was a time when pugs had their private quarters, personal guards and dedicated servants. They originated in China , and they are now ruling over the world with their cuteness. They are stout and round. They have snubbed faces, and they are goofy. In fact, their fun-loving nature has made them popular in countries across the world. From millionaires to middle-class families, everyone loves them due to their happy-go-lucky attitude. However, do not be fooled by their innocent appearance. Behind those huge round eyes is a sharp brain that can even fool humans. In truth, human beings are their second love since food always takes the first place, and pugs will do anything from begging to deceiving to get a slice of that pepperoni pizza. Pugs are smart, and they can be obedient when you are ready to listen to them as well. They do not like to be pushed around, so be careful about treating the small guys with respect. They adjust with other dogs, pets, and children in the house marvelously. They are ideal for larger homes as well as smaller city apartments, as long as you are ready to commit to a walk in the park every day. Why is a shug puppy so undeniably cute? As a result, we expect the shug to be affectionate, friendly, intelligent, smart, naughty and playful. In fact, they are all of that are more! Thankfully, they are not big shedders and grooming them is never a pain. Training them is quite easy too since they inherit the obedience from their GSD parent and the quick wit from their Pug parent. Most Shug owners confirm that training them is a rather fun and interactive process. They are brave and obedient like the German shepherds. Shug is suitable for small families as they are for the large ones. They can adjust to apartment life as easily as they can adapt to a farmhouse living. They need plenty of exercises since they inherit oodles of energy from each parent. Shug dog is an active breed, and you need to keep them active to maintain their good health. They are highly dependent on human interactions, and they require emotional bonds. Therefore, unless you can spend more than a couple of hours with your dog, you should not think about getting a shug. Unlike other big dog and pug mixes, the shug is a standard crossbreed. Although the facial features, coat colors, limb features and tail type can vary between the different litters of the same parent, their overall friendly attitude does not waiver. Just like most other mixed breeds , the pug and German shepherd mix do not receive an AKC certification or the clearance to participate in dog shows. However, several AKC approved breeders do support the cross of these two breeds. Look for breeders or dog owners, who have given away or sold Shug before to ensure that their litters are healthy and free from genetic ailments. Checking the review of the breeders, speaking with other shug parents and adopting from shelters does help in finding healthy mix breed puppies. Our staff are avid fans and dedicated owners of Pugs. We hope to answer all the questions you have about Pugs. Just read and enjoy. Feel free to share if you find it valuable to others! Best regards,

To ensure the safety of our readers and the right fit for a new pet, we work hard to make sure only the most trusted breeders are featured on the site. We have a dedicated team that works hard and has done extensive research that involves checking both the breeder and their dogs, to verify that the breeders featured on our site are highly reputable and trustworthy. Feedback on Google and Facebook is also taken into consideration before they are listed as a breeder to have the highest standards possible. We hope that this gives you a little more information about how we list breeders on our site. Golden Retriever Puppies for Sale in California: Golden Retrievers are a hugely popular breed worldwide, thanks to their reputation as loyal pets and good hunting dogs. However, with so many breeders to choose from, it can be hard to decide which one is the best fit for you and your family. California is a great state to get a Golden Retriever, and there are plenty of reputable and ethical breeders to choose from. I have compiled a list of the top 14 Golden Retriever breeders in California, based on their breeding history, customer reviews, and service quality. Most of these breeders are hobbyists who breed for love, not money. With this list, you should be able to find the perfect Golden Retriever for your family. They are located in Southern California and they pride themselves on being an ethical breeder of quality Golden Retriever dogs. They source their breeding stock from all over the USA and Europe. This allows them to get the best genetics possible and produce healthy offspring. They want all of their puppies to go to good homes where they will be loved as family members. Additionally, all puppies are sold with limited registration. This means that the new family will not be able to breed their dog. The breeder only wants their puppies to go to homes where they will be treated as family dogs and not used for breeding purposes. The pups come microchipped, vets checked, dewormed, and doggy door trained. They also come with a 1-year health guarantee. Golden Retriever Breeder Info:. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for California Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in California? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in California? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. This little bundle of joy is on the lookout for a forever family who will cherish them and provide a lifetime of.Read More Golden retriever puppies Riverside, California Golden retriever puppies looking for a new home. Family dogs and very good with children. Had a litter of 13 golden retriever puppies, we are left three great puppies. We have 2 females and 1 male lef.Read More AKC Golden Retriever Puppies Elk Grove, California We have 4 females available for their forever home now Our pups are whelped and socialized in homes with families so that theyre "pre-spoiled: already used to loving and playing with humans. Puppies will be registered and have a health guarantee, 1st vaccines, dewormed, microchipped and a new puppy starter pack filled with needed supplies for new pup.Read More Golden retriever puppies Madera, California We have 7 beautiful baby boys and 2 sweetheart females. Puppies Will be ready for their forever homes soon. No scam. Your welcome to FaceTime me or google duo. I am also available for you to come pick.Puppies are raised in a loving home. We have been raising Goldens for over 15 years. All pups come.Read More.

Articles If you have a Labrador that has just had puppies, you are definitely curious about the different stages of growth your pup will go through, as well as what to expect at each stage until your pup is fully grown. So, when do puppy Labs stop growing? Generally, your puppy Lab will stop growing by the time they reach their second birthday. By this time, they would have reached their adult height, but your puppy could still continue gaining weight and filling up. Knowing the key milestones your puppy Lab will go through is key to gauging the health of the pup until they get to adulthood. Labrador puppies go through several growth stages between the moment they are born and when they fully transition into adults. They cannot see, hear, or regulate their body temperature, and their teeth have not grown yet. At this point, they depend on their mother for almost everything. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 Weeks Two weeks after birth, your pup will start seeing and hearing sounds, and their teeth will start growing. The Awakening Period For The Senses 3 to 4 Weeks At this stage, your Lab puppy will start becoming more sensitive to what is happening in their environment. The Socialization Period 4 to 12 Weeks This is the period where the puppy Lab starts learning how to interact with humans, other dogs, and other things in their environment. You can start weaning the puppy and training them basic commands at this stage. You need to be firm with training at this stage and let the puppy know that some behaviors are not acceptable. The Ranking Period 16 to 24 Weeks During this stage, your puppy is going to learn about the dynamics of dominance and submission, and their ranking within a pack. The pup will try to show dominance and become more independent. First Week Labrador puppies undergo rapid growth during their first week of life. By the end of the first week, your Lab puppy will be about twice their birth size. According to the study, this happens around the 89th day for female Labs, and around the 95th day for male Labs. This means that this growth spurt will generally happen when your puppy Lab is between 12 to 14 weeks old. By the 18th or 19th week, however, you can expect your Labrador puppy to have reached half their adult weight. By the time your Lab puppy is about 6 months old, their bones are about to stop growing, which means that after the 6th month, the puppy will not gain much height. Weight gain will also slow down significantly, but your puppy Lab will still continue filling out until they are about 2 years old. Your puppy Lab will stop growing by around their second birthday. From there, weight gain or loss will be affected by things like diet and physical activities. You might also consider to pet-proof your home , especially if you are a 1st-time labrador owner. A good way to tell if your puppy Lab is growing normally is to track how much weight they gain every week. Generally, a healthy Lab puppy should gain about 2 lbs every week on average until they are about six months old. After your pup reaches 6 months, the growth rate will reduce, with the pup gaining between 1 lb. From a birth weight of between 8 to 24 oz, your puppy should be about 50 to 60 lbs by their first birthday. Once they get to 4 weeks, you can then start introducing softened puppy food. By the time your puppy is 8 weeks, they should be fully weaned, and should be fed about 2 cups of food every day. The food should be divided into 3 or 4 meals. At 10 weeks, you can increase the food to 3 cups. Once your Labrador puppy is 12 weeks and older, their appetite will increase, and at this point, you can start giving 4 cups of food every day, divided into 2 or 3 meals. For proper growth and good health, you need to feed your Labrador pup with food that is rich in nutrients and calories. We recommend feeding your Labrador pup with food from Pet Plate. So, what is a good weight for a Labrador? By the time your Lab puppy is 10 weeks, their weight will fall between 10 to 20 lbs. At 4 months, your Labrador puppy will have already experienced their second growth spurt. The ideal weight for a Lab puppy at this point is between 25 to 35 lbs. By the 5th month, your Labrador puppy will weigh 35 to 50 lbs. They will also be approaching their adult height. The average weight for a 1 year old Labrador is 50 to 65 lbs. By this time, your Labrador pup is no longer growing in height, but they are still gaining weight. By the time they are two years old, your Labrador puppy will have completed their growth. Female Labs are usually smaller than males, and this will become apparent as the puppies grow older. At 2 years old, the weight of a female Labrador pup will typically fall between 55 and 70 lbs, while that of a male Lab will fall between 65 to 80 lbs. The best way to tell how big a Lab puppy will get in adulthood is to look at the size of the parents. If the parents are big, then you can expect your Lab puppy to get equally big. Similarly, if the parents are small, it is very unlikely that your Lab puppy will get very big. This can be done by playing tug of war with your Lab, giving them tough toys to chew on, and basically anything else that will encourage them to use and strengthen their jaw muscles. At the same time, you should keep in mind that your Lab puppy is still growing, so it is advisable to get an adjustable harness and the correct harness type for the purpose of the activity. 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:. As far as their height is concerned, most labs will reach their adult height of 22 to 25 inches 56 to .They will also reach their optimal weight of 64 to 80 pounds 29 to 36 kg by their 15th month. Labrador Retrievers are very food motivated, more so than quite a few other pups. Keeping your pup properly nourished is vital but letting your dog get fluffy is obviously ill-advised. With lots of myths and misconceptions flying around the place, many people believe that neutering or spaying your lab puppy too early will slow down its growth. There are some minor changes here and there, depending on the study, but nothing too significant. How big is the pup compared to the rest of its litter? The average time it takes for a Labrador Retriever to reach its maximum height is about 11 months or less than a year. Some puppies take a bit longer and others do it even sooner. A few weeks of variation are to be expected as long as your vet is certain your pup is healthy. As for the weight, this reaches its potential a bit later — around the 15th month. How can you tell how big a Lab puppy will get? It will also likely have a pretty dominant personality and require an experienced owner. How much do Lab puppies grow each week? In terms of weight, a 3 pound 1. From there, the growth will gradually slow down until the puppy reaches its maximum height around the month mark and its optimal weight around the 15th month. How big is an 8 week old Labrador? How big exactly is such a pup, however? The average 8 week old Labrador should be somewhere between 8 and 12 inches tall at the shoulder 20 to 30 cm with females being an inch or so shorter. As for their weight, that can vary between 10 to 14 pounds 4. 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! Save to Pinterest The Stages of Puppy Growth and Development Month by Month The following are the stages of puppy growth and development, starting at birth and ending when your dog reaches adulthood. The Neonatal Stage 0 to 2 weeks This is the newborn puppy growth stage that lasts until two weeks of age. At this developmental stage, puppies are blind and deaf. Expect puppies at this point to sleep almost constantly and their mother will take care of everything, keeping them warm, feeding them, and keeping them clean. The Transitional Stage 2 to 4 weeks At this puppy growth stage , they will start to open up their eyes and respond to sounds, light, and movement around them. You will also notice a puppy at this point starting to get more mobile, although they will still tend to crawl instead of walking. They do, however, have enough strength to stand up, but will stumble a lot. A puppy in this developmental stage will just be starting to recognize their siblings and mother. Lab puppies open their eyes at about two weeks old. By this time, Labrador puppies will have their eyes fully open and most will be at least partly open. Ears open at this point too and your puppy will begin to hear. Period of Awakening of Senses 3 to 4 weeks At this period , a puppy develops various senses rapidly. They start to get fully alert and aware of their environment and may recognize you and other humans that are frequently around. The Socialization Period 4 to 7 Weeks Once a puppy is around four weeks old, they start to learn the most important things in life-related to social development. They will learn to not bite all the time and how to interact with their siblings. Interactions with humans are especially important between five and seven weeks. This is also the time they will start to understand discipline thanks to their mother. She will start weaning her puppies and teaching them manners, like acknowledging she is in charge. As the owner, you can start introducing food to your puppy when they are around four weeks old. Start small and begin to give them more food as the mother continues to wean them. You should also continue handling the puppy every day. However, be sure not to separate them from their siblings or mother for over ten minutes each day, since this can lead to issues with training and socialization. Dogs who are separated too soon may also be nervous and more likely to bark and bite. During this period, let the mother dog take care of discipline; you should not correct the dog for mouthing or housebreaking mistakes until later in life. To help ease them through this process, avoid traumatic events, loud voices, or harsh discipline. You should also make sure your pooch has plenty of human contact during this stage. If you want, you can start leash training and even teach simple commands such as sit, down, stay and come. In terms of development, you will notice that your puppy can sleep through the whole night and starts to develop better control of its bowels and bladder. Most vets suggest that new outings should wait until they are fully vaccinated. We rub the Calmeroos Puppy Toy on littermates and mom to get their scent. When we get home the Calmeroos Puppy Toy helps our puppy feel comfortable and adjust more quickly to his new environment. Many puppies will go to their new homes at around 8 weeks old. We recently put together a blog post on our sister site detailing what you can expect from an 8-week-old puppy. The Juvenile Stage 3 to 4 Months At this point in development, a puppy can be compared to a juvenile. They will be more independent and may ignore the basic commands that they know very well. If this happens, firmly and gently reinforce the commands and other training. You may also notice your pup starting to test your authority by play biting or similar actions. You can also redirect your dog to a toy that they can bite. Either can end up teaching your pooch that it is okay to fight with you and challenge your authority. The Ranking Period 3 to 6 Months When your puppy is between four and six months old, you should expect them to be somewhat bratty, showing more willfulness and independence. They are more likely to test your limits and may try to show dominance over children or other family members. If they fail to listen to you or come when called, it can be dangerous as it puts them at risk of injury when in public. It can also hurt future responses to you, making them less likely to listen. This is also when your dog will be teething, so give them toys like frozen dog Kong toys to relieve pressure and pain. Chewing behaviors will also start growing at this point so look for some safe chew toys to keep your dog entertained. This is when hormonal changes start to occur and is the ideal time to spay or neuter your pup. UC Davis published a study comparing the long-term health effects of neutering in Golden Retrievers and Labrador Retrievers. Adolescence 6 to 18 Months After six months, your pup is already in the final stage of puppy development but is still young. This is a fun and exciting time for your pooch since they will be learning, full of energy, and exuberant. During this time, it is important to remember that even if your puppy now looks like a grown-up dog, they are still a puppy, at least in its mental capacity and emotional maturity. Work to slowly increase training and other activities. You can even work on advanced training such as agility or herding. Another option is to simply keep training them to ensure they interact in a non-aggressive and non-threatening way with other animals. It is also possible that your dog will go through another fearful period of time at some point after they reach six months. You can speed up the process with counter-conditioning and desensitization. It fits very well and is quite apt! Final Thoughts With the knowledge of how and when your new puppy will develop, you are better able to meet their needs. Provide socialization at the appropriate times and be sure to give your puppy plenty of social interactions with their siblings as well as humans and any other pets in your home. Your dog should reach maturity at some point between one and two years old with plenty of variation based on breed, Labradors are considered mature at between 2 and 2. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Colby Colby Morita has been raising and training guide and service dog puppies for over 13 years. Colby has been writing to the PuppyInTraining.

Top of Page Iowa Meadow's Labradoodles are wonderfully intelligent family dogs! With low to non-shedding and allergy friendly fur. Their lush silky fleece textured fur ranges from wavy to straight. Australian Labradoodles can range in size from Standard, Medium, or Miniature. Showing little difference in general appearance. Weight can range from 15 to 65 pounds. Check our photos of past litters to get an idea of what color or patterns you like the most. Any dog- owner can relate to this! The more I researched, I realized this breed in particular was perfect for our family and any family around. Not only are these dogs adorable and shed little to none, their wonderful temperaments and health guarantee sold us. We have never looked back and are so in love with our girls. Dogs from this cross typically were bred to each other over future generations, whereby the Australian dogs are also known as 'Multi-generational' Labradoodles. The resulting labradoodles subsequently have been bred to each other continuing the multi-generational tradition. I am also a momma of two girls and my sweet boy who keep me busy with their fun and crazy personalities. Aside from being an Australian Labradoodle Breeder, I also love painting, sewing, and running when I have free time. Iowa Meadow Family Brenna, my oldest is an old wise soul. Her passion and love have always been horses. She makes my heart burst with pride with the devotion she pours into a dream she has and lets nothing stop her. He loves exploring with the dogs, riding his bike, running everywhere and every sport there is. He can't wait to grow up to be a farmer. His best quality is spoiling his momma and telling her she is pretty. Bria is 14 years old and is our sassy spitfire who always keeps us on our toes. She is witty and smart too smart. She loves school which makes life pretty easy for us. Her passion is dancing!! She has been shaking and moving since she came out of the womb. She dances and sings all day long and puts the biggest smile on our faces. She set and reached her goals to join competition dance and continues to improve and impress me. Searching for forever homes.Each has a long history in breeding dogs and an excellent reputation throughout the dog showing community and among pet owners who own Labradoodle breed of dog. Iowa Meadow They breed to produce the best possible Labradoodles for sale in Iowa. Iowa Meadow Labradoodles is a multi-generational, non-shedding, and allergy-friendly Australian Labradoodle breeder and raiser. The Labradoodle puppies are raised in a cozy home environment where they constantly connect with the family, making it easier to socialize. Socialization at early stages is beneficial to Labradoodle puppies since it makes them get used to new sounds and sights simpler. In Iowa, their Labradoodle puppies are microchipped and receive bi-weekly deworming, vaccines, and veterinary exams. The puppies also come with a 2-year genetic health guarantee. Before the puppies are turned over to their new parents, they are given crate and toilet training. Temperament testing is also done with the assistance of a professional trainer, and there is a 2-year health guarantee. In Iowa, this is a well-known Labradoodle breeder. For many years, the Hermeiers have been producing top-quality, healthy Labradoodle puppies for sale. They breed by carefully selecting the finest studs and dams based on health, temperament, and conformation. Labradoodles, Bernedoodles, and Goldendoodles are breeds of dogs bred at this state-licensed breeding facility. The child finds it quite easy to grasp because of her low attention span and focus for long periods. They have been dedicated to developing and producing multi-generation Australian Labradoodle puppies since .Heartland Labradoodles offers a 3-year health guarantee and lifetime support for its pups. Before going home at 9 to 10 weeks of age, they are sleep crate trained at our bedside and have basic leash and toilet training skills. The bloodlines of their breeding dogs come from Rutland Manor and Tegan Park in Australia, which has worked tirelessly for years to promote the Australian Labradoodle through high-quality breeding and strict rules. Their goal is to breed healthy, gorgeous, and fun pups that are suitable for any lifestyle. They raise their puppies in the comfort of their home with lots of love and affection. The FDA conducts annual inspections and quality tests on their breeding facility. This ensures that you will be receiving a safe Labradoodle puppy. Their breeding dogs and puppies are health tested, and exclusive dog care instructions and tips on nutrition and training methods will be given to new owners. They also provide a 1-year health guarantee with each pup. The puppies are well-socialized, crate-trained, and potty-trained when they leave the house. They are also inoculated regularly and have their genetics examined by a professional veterinarian. They make sure to provide their clients with all the necessary information on being a responsible owner of an Australian Labradoodle. Their puppies are raised in a healthy, clean, and safe environment where they receive lots of care and attention. They are socialized with children, adults, and other pets when they are young. Their breeding program for Australian Labradoodles uses only the healthiest parents that have been genetically tested to ensure that you will get a healthy and happy Labradoodle puppy. They also focus on the temperament and intelligence of their puppies to make sure that you will be receiving a well-trained puppy and has a great personality. All their pups are raised indoors with constant supervision and care from when they arrive at their facility until they go to their new homes. Address: th St. Whether for companionship or participating in competitions, having a quality dog with great bloodlines is important to many pet owners. To find the most suitable breeder that provides top-notch service and care, choose one that has received positive feedback from other dog owners. You should also thoroughly check their facility to ensure that they have healthy dogs and breeding plans. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. SITE Thank you for visiting our website! We are so excited to be able to provide quality, well bred Australian Labradoodle puppies for you. Please browse through the website and see what we have to offer. You are sure to find some of the cutest puppies you have ever seen! Whether you are looking for a puppy, or just curious about this lovely breed, please feel free to email me with any questions you may have. Many of my previous puppies are placed on the East Coast, and some on the West Coast, so don't let location deter you! I love having families fly in to pick up their puppy, or I can even hand deliver! Click here to visit our puppy page!! Both of these usually make great options for someone looking for a shed free pet, or someone with allergies. They have wonderful personalities and make great family pets, as well as top service and therapy dogs! Most Australian Labradoodles and Bernedoodles from my program are non shedding and allergy friendly. My puppies come in all colors, including chocolate, black, cream, apricot, red, caramel, phantom, tricolor and parti. I have standard, medium and mini Australian Labradoodle and Bernedoodle puppies. Raising healthy, well socialized pups is my top priority. My Australian Labradoodle parent dogs are health tested for hereditary diseases, and I provide a 2 year guarantee on my puppies. So if you are looking for a healthy Australian Labradoodle, you have come to the right place! Australian Labradoodles also called Cobberdogs are, simply put, a multigenerational combination of Labradors, Poodles and Spaniels, though in their distant ancestry there are other breeds that have a very minor influence on the Australian Labradoodle as we know it. They have been bred for many generations to correct coats and set the standard for future generations. Australian Labradoodles are, as a general rule, more predictable in size and coat than the early generations. They are almost always non shedding. That cross can then be bred to another Bernedoodle to make multigen aka "Teddy Bear Bernedoodles", or to a Poodle to make F1b Bernedoodles. Also a Bernedoodle or Bernese Mountain Dog may be bred to an Australian Labradoodle to make Australian Bernedoodles, all of which can help set non shedding traits. While the majority of my puppies are placed in Iowa, Nebraska, Illinois, Minnesota, Wisconsin, I have puppies across the country from coast to coast! I can hand deliver your puppy to nearly anywhere, or you are welcome to fly in to Iowa and pick up your puppy. Please check our available puppies page to see what we have, as well as the upcoming litter page to see what is on the way! Puppies will come up to date on all vaccinations, wormings, and properly socialized. Some litters are spayed and neutered prior to leaving. My adult breeding dogs are raised as family pets in guardian homes nearby, where they are loved and cared for as part of a family. All of my girls are retired at a young age, so that they may enjoy relaxing at their forever home. I do not have a "facility", my program is based in my home. Please feel free to email me any time with questions! We specialize in authentic multi-generational, non-shedding and allergy friendly Australian Labradoodles and Australian Labradoodle Puppies. More information. They are night time crate trained at our bedside and have beginning leash and potty training skills on board before going home at 9 to 10 weeks of age. We serve families and work with breeders all over the world, traveling with your puppy in cabin with me to your local airport if families are too far to drive to us to pick up their puppy! Whether you are in search of non-shedding, allergy friendly Australian Labradoodle Puppies for Sale or wish to learn more about the breed, you have come to the right place. As a multi-generational Australian Labradoodle Breeder since , Heartland Labradoodles breed and raise the finest in Australian Labradoodles and educates new owners about their new life-long companion. About Heartland Labradoodles Raising all of our Australian Labradoodles in the safe and secure environment of our home, Heartland Labradoodles guarantees all of our visitors will truly love our puppies for sale, coming from a small Iowa family farm that is dedicated to raising happy and healthy animals. We are located in Iowa near the Illinois and Wisconsin borders, allowing all of our adorable Australian Labradoodle puppies to have plenty of free space to roam under the care of a true and dedicated Australian Labradoodle and Labradoodle Puppies Breeder. First, it is that we only select, breed and raise multi-generational Australian Labradoodle Dogs For Sale that displays the best of breed characteristics. As a caring and concerned Australian Labradoodle Breeder and retired Registered Nurse that Iowa residents have come to trust, we selectively breed dogs with proven bloodlines and excellent temperaments with extensive health testing, yielding Australian Labradoodles for Sale that Iowa and surrounding area dog enthusiasts will treasure. At Heartland Labradoodles, we know that Iowa residents and families everywhere will want one our Australian Labradoodle Puppies for long-term healthy companionship, as we strive to place all of our dogs in safe and loving homes. Therefore, all of our new puppies are handled on a daily basis to ensure each dog is learning, growing and developing as expected. This way we get to know their personalities and evaluate their individual temperaments. Daily handling of our puppies also allows each dog to become used to voices, touches, and movements that their humans make. By the time they are welcomed into your home, all of our Iowa area and surrounding customers will find our Australian Labradoodles are well-adjusted and will fit right into their new family environments. To make the perfect match, if you see a puppy you may be interested in or are interested in an upcoming litter you wish to inquire about, please take the time to fill out our Puppy Application so we can help you make the perfect puppy-new owner pairing.

But, unfortunately, there are so many organisations only in it for the money, charging exorbitant prices and neglecting the health and wellbeing of their puppies and dogs. One of the most obvious signs of an unethical breeder is the poor or neglectful treatment of their puppies and breeding dogs. An ethical labradoodle breeder in Australia will; Strive to find the right home for their puppies. Instead, they go above and beyond to make sure they find the perfect home for each puppy. Usually, the search involves asking potential buyers a range of questions about their home and lifestyle, so they can pair families with a puppy that has a temperament right for them. Provide the highest quality care and living conditions. Ethical breeders ensure that both the puppies and breeding dogs have premium quality care, including comprehensive health checks, socialisation, and training. Rehome adult dogs. Once the female is retired, she is de-sexed and either adopted by our internal staff or a loving family. Never separate the puppies early. Puppies Downunder waits until the puppy is ten weeks old before we allow them to join their new family. Meet and exceed all the necessary requirements. We comply with all codes and requirements set by the Domestic Animal Act, actively assist with inspections of our facilities, and have received approval from the Chief Veterinary Officer of Victoria to operate as a Commercial Breeder and the Minister for Agriculture. The breeder should be asking plenty of questions. A puppy is a long-term commitment, so ethical breeders ask plenty of questions to make sure the buyer is the right fit for the puppy. Here are a few examples of questions you can expect to hear; How much space do you have? Will you be home often? How often will you exercise the dog? Do you have kids? Do you have other animals? Where will the puppy sleep? They should encourage you to visit the breeding facility. When looking for Australian labradoodle puppies for sale, you need to make sure the breeder will allow you to inspect the facility and meet the parents. You can also ensure the dogs and puppies are raised in clean, high-quality conditions by visiting the facility. The Puppies Downunder team understands that not everyone can come and visit our facility, so we have plenty of photos of both the breeding facility, puppies, and dogs online. The breeder should try and find out the address the puppy will be living, the details of the new veterinarian, and any other relevant information needed to ensure the puppy is being well looked after. Your breeder should have organised the first two vaccinations, microchipping and worming and parasite prevention, before going home with their new family. At Puppies Downunder, we go above and beyond, providing a complete medical history. We also provide you with information about their individual dietary requirements, socialisation, registration, medications, and required vaccinations. An excellent ethical breeder should be vetting potential buyers to find the right family for that specific puppy. Is the puppy cheeky? How much exercise does the dog need? Unfortunately, a lot of unethical breeders will understate or flat out lie when telling buyers how much exercise their new puppy will need. For example, people looking for a labradoodle for sale in Australia might be told they have a moderate activity level, which is accurate. However, they may be given the same advice for bordoodle, which is wildly inaccurate for this high-energy, restless dog. Can you provide references? The breeder should be able to provide you with references from a veterinarian and previous customers. We offer lifelong support. At Puppies Downunder, we continue to provide support for our customers throughout the lifetime of their puppy. Do they offer a guarantee? At Puppies Downunder, we provide a health guarantee for the first 21 days of sale. Do they provide the essentials to give the puppy the best start to life? Dogs are our passion, and we dedicate 24 hours a day, seven days a week, to their care. In fact, we have the highest ethical standards of any dog breeder globally. We absolutely adore mini labradoodles, and we take advantage of any opportunity to share our love of them with others. What Is A Mini Labradoodle? Their beautiful, calm temperament and high intelligence make mini labradoodles ideal candidates for therapy pets and service dogs for individuals with autism, PTSD, diabetes, and other disabilities. How big do they grow? A mini labradoodle will typically grow to cm in height and around kg in weight, so they stay relatively small. From elderly couples to families with small children, the mini labradoodle will fit right in. Do mini labradoodles shed? That all depends on their coat. If a mini labradoodle has a wool coat, the tight curls will catch any dander, fur, and dirt, thereby minimising shedding and reducing allergies. However, wool coats are high-maintenance and require brushing every day. It all depends on the type of coat your mini labradoodle has. Fleece and hair coats are very low maintenance, but wool coats are pretty high-maintenance. They have a pretty moderate level of activity, and they enjoy minutes of exercise per day as well as playtime and mental enrichment. Are there any health concerns we should keep an eye out for? Mini labradoodles are a crossbreed, so they have very diverse genetics making them less likely to develop genetic diseases. They may also develop hip or elbow dysplasia if over-exercised or overfed. Labradoodles have adorable long ears, but this means they are prone to dirty ears and ear infections, do their ears need to be checked regularly. From birth to 8 weeks, puppies benefit from valuable socialisation time with their siblings and mother. However, not crate training your puppy may be doing more harm than good. We suggest introducing your puppy to their crate throughout their first day, enticing them with treats and making sure they associate the space with positivity. Open the crate door throughout the day, so your puppy can retreat to their safe space whenever they feel the need. Make sure your puppy has a separate area to go to the bathroom at night. Puppies Downunder are an ethical mini labradoodle breeder, and we take great pride in our high-quality breeding facilities and our commitment to providing a safe, comfortable home for our dogs. They have incredibly high intelligence and need to be kept mentally stimulated; otherwise, they can become bored, stubborn, and destructive. Dogs with high intelligence love a challenge, and they love working for their food. You can either purchase puzzle or interactive feeders such as snuffle mats or Kong toys, or you can create your own DIY slow feeder bowl. We suggest having a few different puzzles in varying difficulty levels, so your puppy is always mentally stimulated at dinner time. The labrador retriever in your labradoodle will have an instinct to retrieve, and the poodle side will have an instinct to hunt, so try to incorporate these traits into games. Silicone licking mats are a fantastic way to keep your dog entertained. Smear some peanut butter, wet food, or baby food on the mat and pop it into the freezer. Once frozen, get it out and give it to your puppy to lick for a refreshing summer treat. You can buy or make plenty of toys that encourage your puppy to solve a problem before receiving treats as a reward. For example, grab a muffin tray, some treats, and some tennis balls. Put treats in a couple of the openings and block them all with tennis balls. Your dog will need to snuffle and work out which balls have treats underneath. Cut a slot in the bottle and fill it with food or treats, and let your dog bat it around to get the treats out. Dogs who are allowed to sniff and explore on their walk are far more stimulated than dogs that just walk. Dogs are our passion, and we dedicate 24 hours a day, seven days a week to their care. Labradoodle Puppy. The Australian Labradoodle are fun loving, loyal, intelligent, cheeky, with a brilliant temperament, and are remarkable to train. This coupled with their non-shedding, allergy friendly coat makes the Australian Labradoodle the perfect valued family member. Our focus as a breeder of these jewels, is to offer healthy, well-adjusted puppies with a gentle affectionate nature and at ease to interact and train. Our breeding stock are our cherished family pets, they come from generations of genetically sound distinguished bloodlines. Applications are currently open for future litters. We at Argyle Labradoodles have taken great care and time to research extensively the Australian Labradoodle and have chosen personal choice to breed standard and large medium sized dogs, we have taken great due diligence in our choice. Being a responsible breeder we do not Kennel or Cage our breeding dogs or puppies, our wonderful puppies are loved and socialised, they run in grassed large yards and are provided with all the stimulation and comforts to provide you with the best possible temperaments from happy, socialised puppies. We feel our future Argyle mums will fulfill all of the above attributes with abundance. We will be interested in guardian families when we are further into our breeding plan. We shall use this application form to identify the puppy that best suits your family and lifestyle. Our personal guarantee is that every Argyle puppy has been born and raised in our home, they have been loved, socialised and come with puppy care notes. Our Argyle puppies are spayed and neutered before they leave our home, this means the temperament of your puppy will not be influenced by their gender. The information you provide us with will help us choose the most suitable puppy at 6 weeks of age when we allocate the puppies on the waiting list to their future family. Essentially Argyle Labradoodles maintain the breeding rights to the puppy for a contracted period whilst the puppy gets to live a pampered and loving family life. If you would like to be considered to be a guardian family to a beautiful puppy in the Argyle breeding program, please apply via our email at argylelabradoodles gmail. Like both their parents, these dogs are smart, friendly and fairly active. Can we meet in person? Have they been socialised? They are highly intelligent, super friendly and easy to train. We have a perfect litter of 5 Labradoodle pups. Both parents have been DNA tested and cleared of any genetic diseases. Mum is our much loved family dog. Dad is a handsome stud red moyen poodle. They will be low shedding and roughly labrador height or smaller. They have been raised in a country family environment in the beautiful Macedon Ranges. They are also crate trained and have started toilet training. The have grown up with children playing with them, 3 adult dogs and already use a doggy door. Our puppies are lovingly raised by our family as well as their mums up to the day they leave for their new forever homes. Puppies will be vet health checked, vaccinated and microchipped at 6 weeks of age. They have been wormed regularly. We can also assist with interstate travel arrangement if required. Will not reply to generic messages. Don't message me wanting me to email you. Mature kilos. References available. Video calls welcomed. Pictures of pups, siblings. Microchipped and vaccinated. She's such a pleasure and has brought me so much joy so far. I've had smart dogs b4 like a Belgian shephard and a border collie, but she is the most intelligent dog by far. You did such a fantastic job and have her the best start in life and it really shows how much time and love you put into your puppies. So thank you for that. I'm so grateful for her. She loves to play indoor soccer and dance with me that's with two legs! He loves to fetch, find and jump. They are my pets. Both DNA tested and cleared of genetic diseases by Orivet. Results are available. Puppies are wormed at 2, 4, 6, 8 weeks, and then monthly. They are raised indoor. They will grow up to be large dogs between kg, cm tall. They are playful, affectionate, friendly, loyal, and intelligent. Crate and potty mat training commenced at 3 weeks old. At 7 weeks old, they have learnt to sit and wait for me to say "eat". They receive daily hugs and kisses, and physical and mental stimulations. Fed Advance or Black Hawk kibble. Fleece coat with low shedding. Coat colour may change as they age. Each come with a toy, blanket, and a bag of kibble. Please call only. Happy to do Facetime, Google Meet, or Zoom. Hau Labradoodle puppies for sale I have seven F1 Labradoodle puppies looking for their forever homes. Labradoodle puppies are a great option for those who suffer from allergies as they shed much less hair than most other dogs. DOB: 16th June puppies will be ready to go to new homes from 12th August, Both parents have had full breed specific DNA testing through Orivet and are cleared for passing on any congenital conditions. Reports are avaliable upon request. Dad, a Standard Poodle weighs approx. Puppies are expected to reach somewhere in between once fully grown. Girls will be on the smaller side. Mum and Dad are family pets and are available for viewing upon request. Happy to assist with pet transport interstate if required additional charges apply Please contact me to arrange a time to come and meet these beautiful treasures. I am a member of the Responsible Pet Breeders Australia-my membership number is .Our puppies have non shedding and allergy friendly coats that are easy care for. Please phone send me a message or email discholl icloud. We are happy ,playful healthy dogs,we are family dogs ,very friendly and easy to train due to blood line of Labrador in the breed. I want to make sure these puppies are going to good family home where they will be treated like family member. For more information please contact me and we can organise to inspect the dogs. Both parents are Orivet-tested F1 Labradoodles clear of genetic diseases - affectionate, intelligent, loyal and active family pets both looove playing fetch and weigh just under 18kg. They also share life with a 10yo Rhodesian Ridgeback. The pups are well socialised already and accustomed to all the usual happenings around the home mowing, blower, etc and other dogs. Non-shedding, sweet and playful! Mother is a Labradoodle, father is a Groodle. Standard size between kg. Both male and female pups are still available. Bred in our family home, lots of love, cuddles, and playtime. All puppies will have had de-worming, microchipping, and vaccinations up to date. Looking for loving families, price negotiable to a suitable home. Laura Cooper Gojo I was gifted a this puppy but due to how busy I am, I would like to find him a new home that will care for him and give him the attention he deserves. I will provide the toys, lead and collar I have already brought him Sebastian Brown Double Doodle Groodle x Labradoodle pups 8 weeks Boho Oodles has 2 beautiful Double Doodle Groodle x Labradoodle female puppies ready for their fur-ever homes. They can be collected from Brisbane or transported interstate additional cost. She is very sweet and affectionate and would be great for a family with small children or someone looking for a companion. She will be ready for her home mid Sept after she has completed 28 days of puppy training. Please enquire if you'd like more information on what it means to be a Boho Guardian family. Looking for forever home. Fun loving family pet great with kids. Minimum shedding. They have been microchipped and vet checked. Vaccinated and wormed every 2 weeks since birth. Will grow to aprox 15kg. Looking for family home with lots of cuddles. Great loyal companion dogs. Mum is a pure chocolate Labrador and Dad is a pure black standard poodle. Well socialised at home with children, being handled daily. Toileting on puppy pads. They are all vet checked and are in good health. Located in Burpengary, also happy to help with transport. Unlike a multigen, F1 Is the initial cross between a purebred labrador and purebred poodle. F1 labradoodles are usually a low shedding dog. Our dogs: Mabel, our beautiful Dam, is a purebred golden labrador with a loyal, loving and gentle temperament. He boasts gorgeous parti colouring and a sweet and beautiful temperament. Puppies will be medium sized dogs. Available puppies: 1. Black boy 3. Chocolate boy 5. Black boy 7. Black boy Inclusions: Microchipped, wormed, vaccinated. Soft toy, Australian made collar by Native Collars, natural fibre blanket. Puppy growth history and vet report, puppy rearing information. Meet and greet from 4 weeks of age. Mable is a special part of our family and these puppies are handled daily, well socialised and loved. They will be weaned and ready for their new homes on Friday 7th July. Meet and greet available from 8th June. Our puppies will not be desexed. We choose not to desex until 9 months of age due to the important role that hormone production plays in the long term health of a dog. It is our recommendation that you consult your vet to discuss appropriate timing. We are looking for loving, forever homes for these precious pups, matching the puppies personality to you, as they will become part of your family. Please send us a message telling us about yourself and we will be happy to answer any questions. Mum has also been hip and elbow scored. Available in the litter are : 1 x chocolate female, 1 x black male3 x black females. Our puppies are well socialised and handled extensively every day to ensure they make great family members. Pups will be microchipped and vaccinated, as well as flea and worm treated. They will come with a Puppy food pack as well as 6 weeks free Pet Insurance. Ready to go from 17 June. Pickup is in Mudgee NSW, puppies can be transported across Australia through jet pets or I can meet in a surrounding suburb close to Mudgee. Litter of seven large medium to standard size black Cobberdog Labradoodle puppies, as per photos. Remaining pups are ready to go NOW! They were microchipped, vaccinated and health checked including full physical by our vet on .If you believe you can provide a wonderful forever home for one of these beautiful puppies, please message with your email contact details and we'll send you an application form. Application forms need to be completed in full in order for you to be considered. Mum and Dad are our forever pets; we are not in the dog breeding industry. Dad has since been desexed and Mum will be as soon as pups are fully weaned, therefore this is a one and only opportunity to share your home with one of these stunning babies. The pups are being sold as pets only and a desexing contract will be required. They are expected to have fleece coats and mature around 8 - 15kg. Mum is a black labrador and dad is a 5kg black and white parti poodle who carries the dominant curly coat gene which he passes to his pups. We've sourced our dogs from all over Australia, tested their DNA and conduct regular vet testing. We take breeding healthy pups really seriously and spend all our time making sure both pups and parents have the best environment possible. You are welcome to visit and meet the pups or they can be delivered to Canberra airport for interstate travel if required airflight to be organised by buyer. We are an experienced breeder with over 15 yrs of breeding experience. We are also a vet audited member of RPBA which means we have passed very strict and comprehensive criteria for the care of our animals. Our dogs are part of our family. There are lots of pictures on their to show what these pups' siblings have looked like when grown up - We are very proud grandparents! We have medium and small second generation girls and boys. Colours available are red, black and two-toned phantom. Puppies coats will be fleece or wool. Minimal shedding and hypoallergenic. They will go to their new homes vet checked, microchipped, vaccinated, wormed and with a puppy pack. We are located in Port Stephens which is 30 minutes from Newcastle or 90 minutes from Sydney. Please contact us to arrange a visit or FaceTime for interstate buyers. They will be toilet trained on artificial grass. Labradoodles are great for living indoors or outdoors and are very low shedding. They come with a puppy pack including toys, puppy food, blanket with mums scent on it for an easier transition into its new home etc. Will also been socialised with people and other pets to help them with social skills and playtime. We live on 5 acres and have lots of room for parents and puppies to run around and play I can help with organising interstate transport and we do video calls to help you find your perfect furbaby. We are looking for loving homes for our gorgeous puppies where they will get the attention, love and training they need. Please feel free to call or message me for more information, or if you would like addition pictures. We take great pride in producing and providing high quality puppies for families looking for their new furbaby. We are situated on 5 acres and have lots of room for our dogs and puppies to run around amd grow up in. Puppies are all socialised with people and our other pets and different noises to help them adapt to this new world they live in. We offer 6 weeks free Pet Insurance, desexing voucher and a 12 months genetic health guarantee. These puppies will be medium size with very low shedding, this makes them great for any family and also great for indoors. They suit any type of family, older families and even families with younger children. The great thing about Bordoodles is that they can be out and about walking and exercising with you or they are happy to chill out at home. They are the perfect family member. They will be toilet trained on artificial grass and they will come with a puppy pack including toys, food, blanket with mums scent on it for an easier transition into their new loving homes and other goodies. We are happy to do personal viewings or video calls and for interstate buyers we can also help you organise transport with our breeders discount. Viewings for prospective forever homes will be conducted at our home when puppies are 4 weeks old. Puppies will be vet checked , vaccinated , wormed and microchipped before going to their new homes. Pups will be weaned onto Blackhawk premium puppy food. They are bought up in our home around humans, cats and general household noises. Pups are wormed, vaccinated and microchipped and will come with a puppy pack. Book your appointment for a visit now.

They are outgoing, active and affectionate companions who have a lot of energy and love making their owner happy. They have strong retrieving instincts as they were bred to be gun dogs, so they love both soft toys and diving into bodies of water. It is highly unusual for the puppy's owner to care for them during this time and is best left to a responsible, reputable breeder. Your puppy's body will double in weight as their muscles, organs and bones develop. Nutrition During the neonatal stage, your Labrador puppy will get most of their nutrition from their mother's milk. At around 4 weeks you may wish to introduce a mush of minced protein such as beef, but always consult your vet first before changing your puppy's diet at this stage. Health During this time it is important to monitor your Lab for any infections, diseases or birth defects. Puppies are unable to urinate or defecate by themselves initially, so their mother helps them but may additionally require your assistance. Keep your vet's contact details close by and educate yourself thoroughly on this stage of puppy development. By the end of this period, your puppy will be mobile and will explore the world mouth first — be sure to keep choking hazards and toxic foods out of their reach. Behaviour During most of this time your Labrador puppy will be asleep or inactive, but they will soon be playing with their brothers and sisters. After weeks they will go through as much sensory development as a human baby does in a few months. It is important to avoid disturbing the puppies' mother as she will be likely be protective, but some interaction with the young pups is normal so they become used to human touch. This is a formative time for your puppy and will be when they learn to walk, play, bite, hold their bladder, and interact with others. You will soon notice their attentiveness to you and their intense love of play — many Labs keep this caring and fun attitude for their whole lives if you foster it. Nutrition During the weaning stage, you should slowly introduce into their diet a nutritionally complete dog food which is appropriate to your Labrador's large size and young age. Labs are notoriously greedy and will quickly gobble down food and snatch treats from hands. You should familiarise yourself with lists of toxic foods and plants to avoid and hide as your puppy will soon find ways to get into forbidden snacks found only in bins. Labradors puppies instinctively like to 'dig' inside their water bowls so much of their water will end up on the ground. Make sure to get your puppy used to touching inside their small ears as they are prone to ear infections and will need regular checkups. Behaviour Due to the changes in their environment, your Labrador puppy will likely be under a significant amount of stress. It's important that you provide lots of attention and positive reinforcement for good behaviour at this time to establish boundaries early. Labradors are eager to love anyone but can be overbearing, so you should introduce them to a number of different people and environments so that they are not overwhelmed with excitement later in life. PUPPY By the time your Labrador Retriever reaches puppyhood their personality will be well developed and you will have established a loving, social friend who wants to maximise time with you and others. Your Labrador puppy will do well socially and behaviourally from puppy training classes as long as treats are involved. Nutrition Your Labrador puppy's diet should be based around a high quality, nutritionally complete puppy food. You may also wish to introduce them to fresh, lean raw meat — however, don't feed your puppy any meat you would not feed to a fellow human being. Bloat is potentially fatal but can be combatted by feeding your dog two smaller meals per day, a habit you should start while they are a puppy. A rough guide is that they should exercise for minutes per day and less after 5 years when many lose their appetite for long marathons of activity. Your pup will need brushing every few days, with more frequent grooming during seasonal changes to combat shedding. Bathing should be infrequent as this can damage the waterproofing of their coats, however, you should wash them after swimming or rolling in muck. After around 8 weeks your puppy will be due for some vaccinations, so they will need a checkup at the vet and to arrange for boosters after that. Studies showed that dogs supplemented with a diet of bovine colostrum had a quicker and stronger immune system response to CDV vaccine as compared to dogs fed a control diet. Colostrum supplemented dogs maintained a higher antibody level even after 40 weeks A diet supplemented with Colostrum helps bridge the immunity gap in puppies that occurs between 3 weeks and 5 months of age. Behaviour Do not be complacent with training your Labrador puppy — almost all are very gentle and well behaved, but this does not mean that training is unnecessary. Labs are very loving and patient with all that they meet, but they often do not know their own size. To combat this, they should be trained in how to act around small dogs and children to avoid intimidation or accidental injury. They will also benefit from obedience training to drop things from their mouths, avoid rushing across busy streets and make sure they come when called. Recommended Articles. We may receive commissions from purchases made via our links. Once they reach eight weeks, changing to dry kibble food is best. We recommend feeding a Labrador puppy dry kibble for the first months before changing to an adult food type. But to remain healthy, owners should know what to feed them. Dog owners should feed a Labrador puppy dry food kibble , wet food, or fresh human food, depending on their budget and lifestyle. There are many options for food for dogs, and it can become challenging to determine which one is the best option for the dog. We have found the best options and listed them below. They help us with our daily tasks, are always there when we need them, and bring great joy to our lives. But, it is essential to ensure that our dog gets the best nutrition possible. They have a lot of energy and need to be fed accordingly. This includes the number of calories, food type, and the number of meals per day. We will explain all of these factors to help understand what to feed these precious animals. A Labrador puppy needs high-quality protein in their diet, so they should not be fed just any type of food. This is why we recommend three food options: dry food or kibble, fresh food or human food, or wet food. We prefer using dry food or kibble in most cases, but it is beneficial to start with wet food for young puppies and transition to dry food after a few weeks. Feeding a puppy human food is possible, but it can be more expensive and requires extra work to stick to a cleaner diet at this age. We have found it to be a healthier and more convenient option for our pets. It is also a good alternative to wet food which can be difficult to store and prepare. The benefits of dry dog food are that it offers the pup a balanced diet that doesn't need refrigeration. It also offers convenience because we can buy it in bulk and store it in the pantry or freezer until needed. Dry dog food is also less expensive than wet food, which is another benefit for pet owners. Fresh Food Human Food Feeding a Labrador puppy a diet of fresh, real human food is one of the best things to do for their health and well-being. It will not only make them happy and content, but it will also keep them healthy. This eliminates the guessing game; they are only fed real, natural foods with no unknown ingredients. However, it will become expensive and require regular cooking and preparation. Wet Food Wet food is recommended for Labrador puppies when they are first born and for the first weeks while they grow. It can be either raw or cooked. Wet food is a good source of water and minerals, which are important in the early days of their life to help them grow strong bones and teeth. It should be given to a puppy as soon as it comes out of its mother's womb, but it must not be given before it starts eating solid foods because it will cause diarrhea. Once they get more mature, moving to kibbles is best. It is known for its low level of grain and carbohydrate content and high protein content. Once they reach the week mark, there are better options to help the puppy continue to develop and grow. This food also helps with digestion and weight management. It also promotes proper bone growth with antioxidants and necessary nutrients like vitamin E. The kibble is also shaped strategically to help puppies who chew fast while helping with jaw growth. Overall, this is the best food option for a Labrador puppy. It is designed for all life stages, from puppies to seniors, and we love the benefits it provides to younger labs. The product features a blend of highly digestible proteins, omega-6 fatty acids, vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, taurine, and glucosamine. This ensures the dog gets the nutrition they need while also reducing the risk of digestive tract problems such as bloat or pancreatitis. It also has a low glycemic index and no corn, wheat, or soy in the recipe. Dog owners can also expect an excellent protein ratio when using this food. Both veterinarians and nutritionists have recognized it for its high-quality ingredients for young puppies. The Acana High Protein formula is made with a blend of chicken, turkey, and fish meals, whole eggs, and natural beef or lamb meal. The product has a limited ingredient list with no corn, wheat, soy, artificial flavors, or preservatives. It also has no added sugar and a low glycemic index. This food also contains probiotics and prebiotics to help the pet maintain a healthy immune system. This is the perfect dry dog food for puppies after eight weeks old. This brand is also very affordable for those who want to feed their dog a healthy diet without breaking the bank. It features a patented recipe that helps to promote healthy digestion, strong teeth and gums, healthy skin and shiny coat, a strong immune system, healthy joints and muscles, and a healthy heart. This is a high-protein food option for Labradors too. It promotes lean muscle growth and improved body health with omega fatty acids, antioxidants, glucosamine, probiotics 5. It is made with high-quality ingredients and has a great taste and texture for labs to enjoy. This food is to help with puppy development and is suitable for all Labradors under one-year-old. This wet food provides the perfect balance of healthy proteins to support a dog's growth while providing the energy they need to maintain its fitness levels. This can be fed as a meal or as an occasional snack between meals. It has no artificial colors, flavors, preservatives, or added sugar. It also contains omega 3 and 6 fatty acids, which are important for healthy skin and the dog's coat. They are large, strong, intelligent dogs that need a lot of attention, exercise, and food. These dogs can be picky eaters and usually need a lot of calories because of their size. This is especially true for puppies so they can grow properly and remain healthy due to their increased risk of health issues. Food Type Labrador puppies' most popular dog foods are kibbles and canned wet food. Kibbles are the best option for a puppy because they are easy to chew and digest. Canned food is a good option for pups who have difficulty chewing or digesting dry food and would benefit from a little moisture in their diet. The food type also depends on the owner. Dry food or kibbles are faster to prepare, while serving human food to a lab puppy requires extensive prep time. Nutritional Value When it comes to nutritional value, we want dog food that has high-quality protein and carbohydrates. This will help the puppy grow strong and healthy. This is why we need to take into account the nutritional value, quality of ingredients, and taste. It should be made with all-natural ingredients that are sourced from human-grade materials such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains. A brand should have all the essential nutrients for a pup but still, be low in toxic elements and preservatives too. Dietary Restrictions Lastly, consider the dietary restrictions of the Labrador puppy before choosing a dog food option. This includes any allergies or health concerns for the dog and shopping for something that suits them best. For example, lab puppies must reach a certain carbohydrate and protein number daily. Labradors are also known to have allergies, especially young ones, so planning around this is crucial. A puppy should be fed at least three times a day, with a meal size that is appropriate for its body weight. They should also be given small daily snacks to keep them satisfied and happy, including treats to help with training. We feed our puppies the best that we can. We want to give them all the nutrients and vitamins they need. We also want to make sure that they are getting a balanced diet. The most important thing when feeding a Labrador puppy is that they get enough calories from their food every day. In the first weeks, the puppy should eat four smaller daily meals. Once the lab reaches three months, this can be changed to three meals per day. And after months, we recommend two meals per day. The key is not to change the calories much when the meals change but to simply modify the size of each meal to fit the total daily food amount. Feeding a Labrador puppy is not rocket science, but there are some things everybody should know about what to feed them and when to feed them. We have covered this basis, but changes need to be made as they age. This leads to a common question about changing food to fit the needs of a grown adult Labrador. The dog's age will determine how quickly they grow and how much energy they need. Lab puppies can stick with kibbles for up to 12 months. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. As we all know too well, what we put in our belly has a huge impact on our health, vitality, length and quality of life. They have to strike a fine balance between getting enough nutrients to grow and avoiding an over-abundance that can lead to abnormal growth and disabling conditions. In this article you will learn precisely how to feed your puppy. What they can eat, what they should not, how many times you should feed them each day, basic information on home-made diets and the pros and cons of various commercial dog foods. The majority of Labrador owners feed their puppy kibble. Kibble is ground meal, shaped into dried biscuit-like pellets that are extremely convenient to buy, store and feed, providing everything a puppy needs in one easy to handle product. All the major brands carry a range of kibble and many are specifically formulated to suit the precise needs of puppies. For our recommendations of the best puppy food for labs, please read our article on: The Best Food for Labrador Puppies. Good breeders will supply you with all the information you need to feed your new puppy and you should follow this advice. Puppies almost always get upset tummies during a change of diet. The stress of moving to a new home is enough to deal with without them potentially having tummy upset on top. So try to avoid this. But expect your puppy to get diarrhea after such a sudden change. What Can Puppies Eat? With a bewildering choice of different puppy foods available, what to feed your puppy may not be the easiest decision to make. You Can Feed Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is ground up food, formed into pellets and dried for easy storage and convenience. It is a specially formulated, complete and balanced diet, containing everything a puppy needs to grow and be healthy. Many people believe kibble is the best way to feed a puppy, with it being so easy to buy, store and feed while containing every nutrient a puppy needs in the right proportions. Wet, Complete Puppy Foods Are An Option As the name suggests, complete wet dog food is complete and balanced, meaning nothing should be fed in combination. Everything needed is included in this one food. Complete wet foods come in individual pouches or tins with one pouch or tin containing one single serving. In the main these foods are low in nutrition, contain a high amount of cheap fillers, by-products and water and need mixing with a biscuit to give them some substance and to make them more complete. Because the food is such low quality, you have to feed a lot of it. And what goes in, must come out. This type of feeding was popular decades ago and I do remember my parents feeding our first dogs this way, but most people have moved on from this and are feeding their dogs in better ways now. Raw Food, BARF And Home-Made Diets Raw feeding is a diet that consists of mostly raw meat, edible bones and animal organs, though most practitioners also mix in small portions of fruit, veg and selected other foodstuffs. There are many people feel strongly that this is the best possible way to feed a dog. But I would caution most people that to feed this diet successfully, you need to do A LOT of research, gain a lot of knowledge and truly understand a dogs nutritional needs to make sure they get exactly what they need in the right amounts. Many people wonder if they can feed their puppy human foods, anything found in the fridge or larder. Furthermore, there are many human foods that are toxic to dogs that you should avoid at all costs. Too much of some nutrients can be bad in itself, but also prevent the absorption and use of other nutrients too. So supplementing a balanced diet is a bad thing to do. Can You Give Puppies Milk? Assuming you get your puppy at the recommended 8 weeks, they will have been fully weaned before you bring them home. Many puppies are intolerant of cows milk and drinking it leads to an upset tummy and diarrhea so you would do best to avoid giving your puppy any milk at all. One exception is for very young puppies under 6 weeks of age. When we have newborn puppies at our house we sometimes need to supplement and use Esbilac Milk Supplemen t. However, if you have a very young puppy that you think may need supplementing please first consult with your veterinarian. Are They Necessary? You will likely be feeding your puppy a commercially available complete and balanced dog food, in which case you certainly should not supplement their food. Supplementing this will mean too much of one or more things, making it unbalanced which can actually lead to harm. But an excess amount of calcium in the diet of a Lab puppy can lead to skeletal development problems. So adding a calcium supplement to an already complete diet can actually do more harm than good. There may also be times your vet advises you to do so. But if feeding raw, you should know more about nutrition than I do. This is a hard question to answer and sadly I cannot give you a definite quantity or weight to feed them each day. Puppies grow at different rates, some are more active than others and there can be large differences between metabolisms too. However… The biggest determining factor is how concentrated the nutrients and calories are in the brand of food you feed them. High quality foods are nutrient rich and give a puppy all they need from quite small amounts of food. But cheaper brands are full of low quality and nutritionally empty fillers that mean a puppy needs considerably more to get what they need. Start by feeding your puppy according to the guidelines on the label of the puppy food you buy for them. Then see how their body develops. Puppies should not be fat! But at the other end of the scale if they start to look and feel a little slim, up their portion sizes a little. The guidelines on the food you buy are just that…guidelines. You might also be interested in:. Remember, Labs do not have a natural food intake regulator so you will need to monitor them with portion control. Using a cheaper brand is a poor option at half the price. You will use twice as much and you will have to clean up larger amounts of waste in your yard. To allow for an accurate control of body weight and growth rate, this amount of food can be dispensed over 3 meals per day. After 5 months of age, the feeding regularity can be reduced to two meals per day with the commensurate increase in food quantity. The amount of food a Labrador puppy requires will increase then level out during first 14 months of their life. At months, their bone density is increasing and their growth plates are set. We do not recommend desexing you pup until at least 3 years of age. This allows for an appropriate development and supply of hormone which in turn produces proper bone, muscle and vital organ development. Table foods dispensed randomly to dogs are not nutritionally balanced. We do not offer our dogs table food at all. There will be no problems if you are feeding a puppy with a homemade diet but it should be prepared from prescribed recipes that are nutritionally complete and balanced. Diets consisting of an unplanned and indiscriminate mixture of human foods particularly including carbohydrates will likely result in obesity and even dietary-induced disease. When you Lab reaches 14months of age, it should be given an adult food that contains less energy and calcium. This will decrease the risk of obesity and orthopaedic conditions. And do not feed them coffee or tea as they can contain caffeine, theobromine, and theophylline. These toxic substances can dangerously affect the heart and nervous system. Onions, garlic, raisins and grapes can be severely toxic in labradors. Raw meat is potential source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria for your puppy. Eggs yokes are an excellent source of protein. Raw eggs contain an enzyme called avidin, which decreases the absorption of biotin a B vitamin. This can, in extreme cease, lead to skin and coat problems. Liver contains higher levels of protein, fats, carbohydrates, minerals and vitamins. Raw liver can be a source of parasites and pathogenic bacteria. Excessive amounts of liver can cause Vitamin A toxicity. Raw bone chewing will control tartar buildup on a pups teeth. However, bone chewing can cause intestinal blockages and perforations. Never use cooked bones. Commercial Puppy Foods Most commercial puppy foods are designated for small, medium, large and giant breeds. This designation can be found on the label. Puppies of medium sized breeds are less than '25 kg fully grown adult body weight'. A full grown and lean Labrador will usually weigh between 25kg and 45kg. We feed our dogs at the 'lower' level of the recommended range. The 'Hills Body Fat Index' is a very helpful body shape indicator. The same food as the bitch You should feed your new puppy with the same brand of food as the bitch received during lactation. From 2 weeks into pregnancy, our expectant mothers are fed 'Royal Canin Labrador Puppy' food. Introducing a new brand of food If you are wanting to introduce a new brand of food to your puppy, then blend it gradually with the existing brand in increasing amounts over 3 days. This should prevent food rejection and any kind of gastric upset. It is best to choose a diet designed for large breed puppies. Selected commercial feeds should contain a limited percentage of filler compounds. Pawlinglabs uses Royal Canin Labrador as our preferred option. Growing labradors Labrador pups have a very steep growth curve, and their total daily energy needs do increase as they grow. Calculate the amount of puppy food that will satisfy that need. The feeding guidelines on the commercial pet food label provides an estimated quantity of feed for several different ranges in body size. These instructions will give you an estimated starting point for the particular brand. Medium or large? Medium breeds should be transitioned to an adult diet by 12 months of age, while large breeds between 14 — 18 months of age. Mature female labradors are medium and weight approx kg. Mature males are large and weight approx kg. Their calcium and energy content should not exceed that level recommended by a registered nutritionalist. Sound skeletal development Sound skeletal development in labradors is produced by the interaction of genetic, environmental, and nutritional factors. The phase prior to weaning and the growth phase, up to 14 months are integral to sound skeletal structure. Don't take your young pup on extended distance walks and certainly not 'running' until at least 18mths of age. You must avoid stairs and slippery floors for the same reasons. Their growth plates are set at about mths of age. Feeding and Overfeeding Large breeds like Labradors are the most susceptible to skeletal disease. Feed consumption, nutrients balance and feeding methods influence our ability to produce sound skeletal development and eliminate skeletal disease. Appropriate food consumption and nutrition plays a critical role in bone development. Overfeeding will not increase or benefit the growth rate of young and growing labrador puppies. And it does not correlate with optimal adult size. However, it does increase the risk of skeletal abnormalities. The vast majority of skeletal disorders occur in large breeds including labradors and they are associated with consumption of table food and an excessive intake of a commercial food and supplementation. The large breeds like labradors are limited in their ability to cope with an excess of minerals such as calcium. The result of this over consumption is abnormal bone development and skeletal disorders. Nutritional management will be critical in the to prevention of bone and joint diseases. In most cases, skeletal disease can prevented by appropriate quantities of feed in a regulated diet with optimal nutrient levels. A complete and balanced commercial diet is essential. Dietary deficiencies will be of little concern if your labrador pup is fed with a complete and balanced commercial diet. Brands like Eukanuba and Royal Canin are specifically formulated for young, growing labradors. There is real potential for harm by over feeding and giving additional supplementation. Housing safety and activity levels Housing safety and activity levels are under the your influence. Nutrition is also under your control and it is the single most important factor affecting the development of the musculoskeletal system. Energy, protein, and calcium are the critical nutritional components affecting skeletal development. However, if they are given in excess, they will be detrimental to normal bone and joint growth. Most pet owners feed commercial dog food. These prepared diets are balanced and complete. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. The source of protein matters when considering a high-quality diet. FATS The rest of the diet should be made up of fats, carbs, and vitamins. Labs need to have a correct protein -to-fat ratio, where protein takes the lead. Dogs tend to convert fat into glucose, so this is an important source of energy. Dogs rely mostly on protein and fats, but carbs are necessary. That said, a low carb diet is best for puppies. However, you still need the right percentage of carbs, since this gives your dog the sensation of being full. These include starches, fibers, and sugars. Try to opt for more complex carbs like starchy grain and veggies because these are easier to digest. Your Lab puppy will thrive when his or her diet includes: Vitamin B12 especially during puppy development , Vitamins A and E, C, Vitamin D, phosphorus, and calcium, Potassium Each of these required vitamins and minerals contributes to a healthy, happy, and energetic puppy. They also help offset issues like obesity. Vitamins A and E are important because they help your dog burn calories and promote eye and skin health. Vitamin D, calcium, and phosphorus, on the other hand, are part of a trifecta that works to strengthen teeth and bones. Potassium is a heart health-preserver. Labs with poor genetics are especially prone to orthopedic issues. Osteoarthritis and hip dysplasia are common health problems for this breed. Glucosamine, an amino-sugar, together with chondroitin sulfate, helps replace and support naturally degrading cartilage during old age. Recently,"grain-free" foods are being championed as a preferred and even high-quality form of dog food. That's, not the whole story. An investigation launched by the FDA revealed that there are potential links between a form of canine heart disease and grain-free foods. So far, researchers have provided an update to this researchers have provided an update to this research staring that the issue may not just be grain-free diets. Grain-free may be part of other trends knows as "BEG"- boutique companies. Puppy diets don't' need to be complicated. They also don't need to include ingredients that humans might enjoy. Enjoyment doesn't necessarily bring any nutritional value to your puppy's development. Keep it simple, using the guidelines for fats, proteins, and carbs above and don't shy away from food with grains in them. It's not their presence that's a problem it's often the ratio. There shouldn't be more carbs or grains than protein. Nor does including only legumes, seeds, lentils, or chickpeas as the primary ingredients make the food more superior. It's perfectly healthy to include complex carb sources like starchy rice and other grains. Grain-free isn't and shouldn't be a qualifying factor for your choice in puppy food. Feeding Your Puppy Kibble Kibble is dried, pelleted food that stores well is easy to eat, and is pre-formulated with everything your puppy needs to thrive and grow in his early developmental months. There are plenty of popular brands that don't measure up to the Snowy Pines standard. That's why it's so vital for you to learn how to read puppy food labels. Puppies should stick with "puppy stage" food, while adults should stick to bags marked "adults. Instead, your dog should have regular bowel movements, allowing them to absorb all the nutrients available. You should also keep in mind that caloric intake is calculated a little differently for puppies. Kibble diets are measured by how many calories the proteins, fats, and carbs represent for each gram. For puppies, this should be 3. Sticking to these ratios will help ensure your kibble choice is a healthy one. It's also important to note that kibble calories are often higher when compared to wet food. If it's high-quality wet food, it won't have as much fat to preserve it, which means fewer calories. You may have to supplement with dry food, especially if you're trying to keep the calories of carbs, proteins, and fats in the right per-gram ratio. How often and what time to feed I will show you the best puppy foods, whether dry, wet, or raw, and look at food safety, together with schedules, quantities and even a handy puppy diet chart. Best Puppy Food for Labs The best Labrador puppy food provides a diet that is nutritious, healthy, and tasty. So, what is the best puppy food for your Lab? Puppy kibble or dried food is the most popular option. Kibble is complete and can give a perfectly balanced diet. Puppy kibble and tinned dog meat combined is another common choice among puppy parents. Feeding your Labrador puppy on home cooked food or on a totally raw diet is also possible. Raw puppy food is growing in popularity, and there are pros and cons to raw feeding your puppy. People often feel very strongly that one way of feeding is better than another, and you can always find evidence to support your view. Dog breeders, veterinarians and even nutritionists have their own strong views. The dire consequences they list for not listening to them can have puppy owners very worried. The truth is that there is no good quality evidence showing that kibble is better for the long term health of your dog, or that raw feeding is better. There are risks and benefits to both, and the main thing is to ensure that your dog has good quality food to eat. Puppy kibble suits some better, and raw puppy food is better for others. Puppy Kibble for your Labrador Puppy food made into pellets is called kibble. An airtight plastic container or tin will do the job, although you should make sure it is food grade quality. Puppy kibble is the best way of feeding your Labrador according to most breeders and your veterinarian is most likely to support this method of feeding. Good puppy kibble will contain every nutrient your Labrador puppy needs in order to grow and remain healthy. The kibble pieces will be tasty, good for keeping teeth healthy, and free from additives that can provoke allergies or stomach problems. Labrador puppy kibble only needs to be fed next to water. Puppy kibble from a reputable manufacturer is intended to be a complete and balanced food. But some owners like to mix in canned dog food or even scraps of raw food with kibble. Your puppy is likely to get an upset stomach or to not have the right balance of nutrition when fed this way. Whether you decide to feed only with kibble or you want to mix it up, pick a good dried food manufacturer and stick with them. Feeding your Labrador puppy raw food has its benefits and drawbacks. One of the downsides is that there is a lot to learn. Here is a link to the articles you need to help you decide whether or not raw feeding is for you: Although I like the raw diet for my dogs, most puppies fed kibble go on to have long and healthy lives. Whatever puppy food you choose, the most important thing is portion control. How Much to Feed your Labrador Puppy? People often tell me how much their puppy weighs, and ask how much puppy food they should give him. Your Labrador is particularly at risk if they grow too quickly. The following diet chart is for kibble fed puppies and does not apply to raw fed pups. It gives you an idea of how much to feed your Labrador puppy Lab Puppy Feeding Chart The Lab puppy feeding chart below is only a very rough guide. The quantity of food you need for your puppy will vary depending on your puppy and on the brand of food you are feeding him. Labrador puppy food must be aimed at medium to large breed dogs. Check the pack carefully and look at the dietary charts. Ideally, you want the optimal protein content and the lowest amount of additives. Part of this always comes down to the cost. The healthiest puppy food is usually the most expensive and may not be affordable for some families. The Cost Of Puppy Food Some puppy food brands are more concentrated than and contain a higher proportion of proteins, essential oils, and other nutrients. The absence of these fillers means that you can often feed lower quantities of more costly food, making them less expensive than they first seem. You might also find that cheaper brands make your puppy poop more due to those extra fillers going straight through him. While some brands are beyond the budget of many families, it is usually good to buy a premium brand. High Quality Brands of Puppy Food Some brands of puppy food have developed a reputation for producing a high quality product and have many devoted supporters, including breeders that have fed them to generations of puppies. The best food for Labrador puppies to consume in their first two to four months of life is milk from their mother. This specialised care is usually left to trained breeders or veterinarians, who are knowledgeable in caring for pups with no mother to nurse from. If you have recently brought a Labrador puppy into your family, they are most likely older than 8 weeks, and so have started to eat solid foods. You can do this by mixing some dry food with specially formulated puppy milk to form a soft mixture. You can feed your puppy this mixture three to four times a day. Over time, you can reduce the amount of milk you include in this mixture, until they are at the point where they are happily eating dry foods. Read on to learn how much you should feed a Labrador puppy as they get older. In their four months living with you, and once they are weaned off milk, Labradors are likely to reach almost half their adult weight. They will reach their full adult weight by the time they are 6 to 7 months old. With this rapid growth can come some risks. Labradors can be susceptible to bone growth disorders, like hip dysplasia and joint abnormalities that can start in puppyhood. Once your Lab puppy hits 6 months, their growth begins to slow down. Once puppyhood is over, you can move to feeding your lab twice a day instead of 3 or 4 times. Labs are still very active in their adolescent years, and so should be fed with this in mind. The transition from puppy food to adult food should happen at around 15 months. This is because, being a breed who grows very quickly, you want to ensure that you are feeding them according to their large breed needs. You need to take special care when considering what you should feed your Labrador puppy, as they require different nutrients compared to their adult counterparts. It is also dangerous for a puppy to overeat. Labradors are large breeds, which means they need plenty of nutrients and calories as they grow to ensure they go from being active puppies to healthy adult dogs. Labrador puppies need to eat food that is high in proteins and fats. Carbohydrates are also essential for supporting your active pup. Aside from nutritionally complete dry puppy food, Labrador puppies can benefit from the extra protein that raw meat can provide them with, such as lean beef, turkey, chicken, or fish. The amount of food you give your Labrador is determined by their weight, energy levels, and age. For most adult Labradors, around 1, to 2, calories per day from high quality food sources is ideal. Female Labradors, who tend to be around 5 to 10 kilos lighter than males, may need less food, as will less active dogs. Dogs who need less food, whether they are less active or simply older, will usually still need around 1, to 1, calories per day. You may want to alter the amount of food you are feeding your Labrador based on how calorically dense their food is. Adult Labradors should be fed twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. Their daily allotment of food should be split evenly between these two meals. For most dogs, it is recommended that you exercise your dog before meal times to assist with potty training. However, some dogs may benefit from exercise after eating: especially high energy Labs with a lot of energy to burn off. You should also try to give your Labrador a high quality food that is specially designed for large breeds, especially if they are very active. For example, less active senior dogs will need to eat less food as they will not be burning calories as quickly as a lively little puppy will. Senior dogs may benefit from a higher fibre and lower calorie diet. Your dog may also develop chronic or short term medical conditions that require specially formulated food. For example, Labradors can be particularly susceptible to obesity. As a breed, they tend to be one of the most commonly obese dogs in Australia. This is due to several factors, including a genetic predisposition to unhealthy weight gain and a famously large appetite. However, plenty of Labs suffering from obesity are simply overfed and not getting enough exercise. Choosing a low carb diet is crucial to preventing obesity in your Labrador. If you are unsure about what you should feed your Labrador, you should always consult your vet. They will be able to determine if your dog is suffering from any chronic health issues, and they will be able to create a nutritional plan to help keep your dog healthy and happy for many years to come. Wet food for Labradors is often high in protein and fat, and is better at keeping your dog hydrated than other food sources. Chewing on dry food can be especially good for teething Labrador puppies. A raw diet can be a good option for your Labrador as you have more control over the kinds of food and amount of nutrients your pup is consuming. For this reason, raw diets require a lot more work on your part as an owner. Whatever you decide to feed your Labrador, all dogs need a similar ratio of nutrients in their diets. Different dog breeds will need different kinds of nutrient support as they go through the various stages of their life. It can also be easy to overestimate the amount of food your Labrador needs to stay fit and healthy — especially if they are skilled at begging! You need to make sure that your dog is eating the right amount of food for their breed, their size, and activity level. You should also avoid foods that, while delicious for humans, can be harmful or toxic for dogs. Foods like onions, nuts, alcohol, cooked bones, and artificial sweeteners are commonly included in dinners meant for humans, but can cause serious health issues for your Labrador. No matter how old your Lab is, it is important to keep to a consistent feeding schedule. A feeding schedule can help you keep track of any changes in behaviour around food that might signal illness or physiological stress.