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Contacts We are the breeders of Canada's Top Bulldog. Photogalery of our bulldogs The place where the love to bulldogs lives The Lenbullan Show Bulldogs is a small family bulldog kennel. We live in British Columbia, Canada. All our activities focused on the reputable breeding. We do not only love bulldogs, we are reputable breeders because we constantly grade up the quality and conformation in every our breeding. When we have bulldog puppies for sale, you might be sure that they are kids of Champions'. We understand that every potential buyer is looking for reputable and reliable bulldog breeders. That's why we are very proud to announce that we have our own Facebook Group , unifying the most quantity of our puppy owners. We are very happy that we could unify absolutely different people in one group only because they own our puppies. And we are very happy that we can be in a constant contact with them. We suppose that this is the best reference for us. For us the dog shows are a way to prove that all of our work as breeders is correct, effective and acknowledged. Our bulldogs are always noticeable in the ring and are constantly rewarded by judges. That is why we are not shy to say that our bulldogs are some of the best bulldogs in Canada. All of this pride comes from our hard work and dedication to our bulldogs. Daily training, practices, physical exercises are just a few techniques out of many more that we incorporate. It is exactly these techniques and this kind of lifestyle that makes us proud and happy about what we do. We are truly thankful to the owner of that famous kennel Marina Evetskaya for allowing us to have these fantastic bulldogs with some of the top bloodlines from around the world. News Happy 13th birthday our sweetest veteran! Ch Lenbullan Azzurra Sky Blue. If you would like to make a gift for our dogs, you can do it here. You can be absolutely sure that every penny will be spent for them. We offer English bulldogs in standard , rare and exotic colors. I am located near Vancouver, British Columbia , Canada. My goal is to maintain a very high standard by producing top quality Rottweilers and English Bulldogs, some which are Imported from countries such as Germany, Hungary and the United States. I strive for correct confirmation, excellent temperament, good bone substance, extraordinary heads and keeping the breed true to it's correct type. C Rottweilers and English bulldogs for over 35 years. As well we serve Vancouver Island and northern B. John to name a few. Other areas we have shipped our superior Rottweiler and English bulldog puppies is all over Canada , provinces and or cities such as Alberta , Calgary, Edmonton , Saskatchewan , Manitoba , and Winnipeg to name a few. We look forward to doing business with you regardless of where you live. We ship our C. Flight nanny service is also available if needed. Thank you for your interest in my quality Rottweilers and English Bulldogs. Feel free to view my web site. I hope you enjoy meeting some of our family and any new arrivals as much as we do. We are located 50 miles east of Vancouver, British Columbia in the Mission area. We live on a beautiful, fully fenced treed 3 acres where our bulldogs are fortunate to run and play freely, jumping at flying birds, frolicking in the leaves and wading through our shallow creek or just having a siesta under the huge fir trees. I have had the opportunity to breed a few different breeds over the years. I have shown different breeds to many Championships, completed Obedience Trials and had my time as president of a dog club. I have taken numerous courses on canine reproduction, genetics, dog structure and behavior. I spent countless hours researching the English Bulldog. When I met my first little brindle female puppy, it was love at first sight. I knew at that second this little girl would never leave my home. Without this little puppy, I would never have known the love and companionship of this incredible breed and through ownership of the English Bulldog, I also researched the French Bulldog and knew they were a natural expansion for me to take into the bulldog family. They are such distinctly different dogs but carry many of the same loving and loyal traits that make bulldogs such amazing family members. It started with one little girl, and the rest is history. I am very proud of both my English and French Bulldogs. Brindlewood Bulldogs is committed to breeding only the highest quality bulldogs with impeccable pedigrees. Our babies are not just puppies. They are well loved little treasures who have been raised with the highest of standards. The degree and time in which a reputable breeder like myself devotes mentally, physically and financially into preparing for a specific breeding begins long before puppies are born. Once puppies are born they receive constant handling, love and socializing in preparation for their new homes. Our three main components in our breeding program are health, temperament and structure. No expense is spared for the best quality dog food, top veterinarian care and plenty of room for our dogs to live with us, run and play indoors and outdoors. Breeding bulldogs takes nothing less than a complete dedication and love of this breed. I have chosen to spend all of my future dedicated to this incredible, unique and intelligent breed. We will continue to educate ourselves and live together with this little wonder of the world. Words cannot express my many thanks to my wonderful grandson Jordan Wardstrom and my daughter Rhonda Wardstrom for without them I could never have accomplished this web site. Please contact us for more information about our dogs and puppies for sale. We have a number of Bulldogs, both English as they are recognized by most and French Bulldogs. They all live as pets in both their home and in show homes with friends. Geoff values this breed and understands the unique challenges that come with breeding Bulldogs and Frenchies. Prior to raising and breeding bulldogs, Geoff and his wife raised and bred Boxers. Geoff has always been fascinated with the Bulldog breed and has a strong desire to see the breed excel in health, temperament, and confirmation. The owners of Topbrass, Mark and Dawn Berryman, have been breeding Bulldogs for many years and Geoff had been looking for over two years for the right Bulldog from a reputable breeder. Priscilla was a surprise to Miranda; however, the cuteness of a Bulldog Puppy will always win skeptics over. A couple of summers ago, Geoff snuck another Bulldog into the house when he brought Queen Vashti in to "puppy sit". Miranda got wise to the scam pretty quick questioning who puppy sits for 4 months? Over the past couple of years Babylon Bulldogs have expended our Kennel to include a number of Bulldogs with fantastic lines, and have added French Bulldogs to the group. All our bulldogs are cared for in loving homes. We look for people that understand the breed and look for a pup that they can love for years to come. This presents us with the unique opportunity to have dogs in loving homes their entire show and breeding careers. The alternative would be to kennel and breed them, and then place kennel dogs into homes after they are retired. We have chosen to go with the show home route - we think its way better for everyone involved - particularly the pups. Stubborn, Lazy, Loves to Sleep with alot of personality - "This breed is you in dog form" - the observation when researching the Bulldog as an breed option worth persueing! Showing 1 - 40 of 41 resultsPage 1 - 41 results Sort by Your listing deserves to be on top. With health and.Pups come with 1st Shots, Dewormings, Full.We want the very best homes for all of our little ones. We have been raising exotic French bulldogs for years. They have.Price is.His mom is an emotional support dog. His dad is owned by a senior and is her well behaved and easy going pet. We have 9 puppies, 6 males and 3 females. We have both pocket size and standard size American Bulldog puppies. As most of our families know we take so much time and.They will have their shots August 28 and will be ready for their new couches. Family raised around kids, their parents, and a reluctant cat. I am pleased to learn of your interest in our exotic dogs. Thank you for considering adding one of our four-legged friends to your family. To provide you with more information and discuss.The only litter in Canada! Located in Ashcroft These pups will be like a miniature Alapaha.Male and female available. Each pet will come with complete health check Up to date on vaccinations.Accepting deposits now. Both parents are CKC registered, health tested and available on site. Pet home.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.First time being available. Excellent nature. Loves people and gets along very well with other dogs. Microchipped and shots up.We absolutely love her and are absolutely devastated to make this decision but we have an senior dog and a special needs cat and a.We breed for Health, Quality, and Temperament. We are a family based French Bulldog.Vancouver I am a year old but am all puppy. My mommy got me after having had her previous Frenchie stolen. She had her first set shots and deworming done. One is green and the other is blue.Healthy vet checked and second shot vaccinated! Please Contact Blue fawn French bulldog for sale New Westminster Beautiful blue fawn male French bulldog puppy looking for his forever home. He is super sweet and cuddly. Good with other dogs and kids. He is coming with up to date shots, microchip, deworming and a.They have been vaccinated, microchipped , wormed and are dual registered with ABRA and NKC for more information or pictures please email or.Great with kids. He is a sweet energetic little guy loves to cuddle. We are breeder preservationist of the Original Heritage Standard Bulldogs. Pet or.New Westminster I have 2 males and 1 female purebred French bulldogs for sale. If interested give me a call or text and we can make a time that you can come and meet them. If your interested at that point I would.Vancouver I have a 10 month old pure bred French Bulldog for sale. She is a stunning girl and has a wonderful personality. We were going to keep her in our breeding program but don't have the space right now.Urgent French bulldog Puppies Surrey Thank you to everyone mentioned below for giving our fur babies their forever homes 1. Hank sold to Amy and Family 2. Jill sold to Alanna and Family 3. Coco sold to Ray and Family 4. Precious sold to.Our dogs are highly pedigreed and come from some of the best Frenchies worldwide. We are one of the few breeders.Please call for information, a phone discussion is preferred. Litter registration with CKC. First vaccine, dewormed microchip. Born May 3rd .Ready for their new forever homes. Come with first shots, deworming and a puppy starter pack. Picture included of mom in Dad.They ar.These dogs are family raised and paper trained. Available for viewing. They've had their first.Our puppies are home raised in a clean and friendly environment! Best Offer cute english bulldog for adoption Free - Sep charming male and female English bulldog Puppies for adoption. Top quality puppies, 12 weeks old, very healthy. All heal.One male and female left. They have had all the love and attention from both us a.These pups are home raised and potty trained. They are 12 weeks old and.He has sired two litters. Check out his pictures! He's lighter in the su.Free Gorgeous English Bulldog puppies available Best Offer - Sep They will also leave with a blanket scented with their litter mates and a soft toy. These Bulldog pups are perfect compan.They are very independent and have sweet temperaments and they are.Best Offer English bulldog puppies for sale Contact Us - Sep We are pleased to announce the arrival of Mia and Monty's litter of 6 healthy puppies yesterday. Our two pups have a very good temperament, strong a.All loved and very well cared for. Each one has microchip, recent rabies vacci.Contact Us. With health and.This allows the text and image to be seen the same from both sides. This flag is fade resistant and weather proof. They will have their shots August 28 and will be ready for their new couches. Family raised around kids, their parents, and a reluctant cat. One of their other names, the Shichon Teddy Bear refers to their.Accepting deposits now. Both parents are CKC registered, health tested and available on site. Pet home.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.She had her first set shots and deworming done. One is green and the other is blue.This beautiful art is printed using the highest quality fade resistant ink on canvas. Every one of Design Art fine art giclee canvas prints is printed on premium quality cotton canvas using the finest quality inks which will not fade over time. Born Oct 3 .Manny is dog aggressive. So no other dogs please. And has hi pray drive. So no other pets. He is also a large dog.Great with kids. Age appropriate shots microchipped dewormed and a little puppy package. First 4 pics are the mother, following pics are the father. We are breeder preservationist of the Original Heritage Standard Bulldogs. Pet or.She is a 1. She is an absolute sweetheart. She has no concept of personal space lol. She was

View Our Available Puppies! You should not confuse Mini Bernedoodles with Standard Bernedoodles. Our adorable Mini Bernedoodle are of the F1 variety. All the doodle moms are purebred Genetic Tested Bernese Mountain dog females. Our mini Bernedoodle pups usually end up weighing pounds and around inches tall when full grown. Most Mini bernedoodles live to be around years old. Mini Bernedoodles have become really popular because they shed very little after they shed their puppy coat, they are very hypoallergenic. We have specialized in breeding Mini Bernedoodles as well as a few other breeds for many years. They are a big part of our family and farm. We have also partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini bernedoodle pups that meet our very strict criteria and genetic testing. We usually have a good selection of very high quality doodle puppies. So if you live near Ireland Corners New York and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Bernedoodle puppy then checkout our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are a few of our Mini Bernedoodle Pups! The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Analytics". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Other. The cookies is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Necessary". The cookie is used to store the user consent for the cookies in the category "Performance". It does not store any personal data. Functional Functional Functional cookies help to perform certain functionalities like sharing the content of the website on social media platforms, collect feedbacks, and other third-party features. Performance Performance Performance cookies are used to understand and analyze the key performance indexes of the website which helps in delivering a better user experience for the visitors. Analytics Analytics Analytical cookies are used to understand how visitors interact with the website. These cookies help provide information on metrics the number of visitors, bounce rate, traffic source, etc. Advertisement Advertisement Advertisement cookies are used to provide visitors with relevant ads and marketing campaigns. These cookies track visitors across websites and collect information to provide customized ads. Others Others Other uncategorized cookies are those that are being analyzed and have not been classified into a category as yet.

For the complete list please see our Boxer Breeders List page. The price of a Boxer puppy varies depending on the breeder and where you are located. Boxer puppies usually go fast because this is such a popular breed of dog, so make sure you act quickly once you find one that interests you. The price of Boxer puppies in New Jersey might vary because of where you live and the reputation of the breeder. There are certain things you should consider when looking for a breeder like their location, reputation, and costs. The best way to research your breeder is by asking around for recommendations from other pet owners in the area. Word of mouth is often the most effective way to find a good breeder. Make sure you ask about costs and any guarantees or warranties that they offer. Visit Your New Jersey Boxer Breeder in Person Whether you physically searched for a Boxer puppy in New Jersey or found a breeder online, once you find one that interests you, the most important thing to do is visit them in person. It will also let you see their facilities first hand which can give you a better idea of what your puppy will be like. If possible, ask if they can let your future pup run around with other young boxers while you wait. This dog-to-dog interaction will help socialize him and make sure he grows up healthy and happy. Questions to Ask Ask for References from Your Boxer Breeder in New Jersey If you feel comfortable with your boxer breeder in New Jersey, ask to see references from other people who have purchased their puppies. If they are reluctant to give you any names or contact details of other customers, this might be a sign that there is something fishy going on. If previous customers had any issues with the company or their puppies, you should probably find another breeder. These people could also give you lots of helpful advice about your specific dog and what kind of personality he might have based on his parents and genetics. Meeting past customers will also give you the chance to ask them questions about their experience with your breeder. If they had any problems, this is your chance to find out all about it. Remember, even one bad review should be enough for you to walk away from a breeder. Even if your New Jersey Boxer Breeder has nothing to hide, they should still have a good veterinarian that they use regularly. The best way for you to find out is to ask them what type of veterinary care their dogs receive and who your puppy will be seeing. The general rule of thumb is that the longer the warranty period, the better the policy will be for you and your pet. The minimum amount of time usually given by breeders is 1 year but reputable breeders like those listed here at PuppySpot offer 2 to 3 years. Some lifetime warranties against certain genetic diseases. First of all, if the prices seem too good to be true…they probably are. Often times they just want your cash without caring about whether or not their breeding practices result in healthy, happy pets which could lead to expensive health problems down the road. Unethical breeders will also try to make you feel like they are doing you a favor by selling you their puppies, but this is just another tactic used to put pressure on the consumer. Finally, if the breeder says that only cash is accepted as payment…move on. Any refusal of credit cards should be an immediate red flag. Most reputable breeders will be honest with you and tell you if there are any issues or history of disease in either the parents or other relatives. The truth is that no one is perfect and every dog has some sort of health concern or another. Reputable breeders will know about these issues before they sell their puppies to you which means they will provide documentation for proof. How to Prepare Your Home for Your Boxer Puppy Before you actually bring your new boxer home, the first thing that you should do is make sure to set up a safe and comfortable area for them. First of all, you will need to find a way to confine your boxer while you are away at work or school. The good news is that there are many different options available for everyone whether they live in an apartment or have acres of land. You also want to make sure that the bathroom has been properly puppy-proofed before your boxer comes home. This will typically involve covering up anything sharp, electrical or poisonous items that could pose a problem for your new pet. Finally, if you have any valuable items on hand such as a TV or laptop, make sure to put them out of reach. In addition, whenever you bring them back inside from playing around in the backyard make sure to immediately put them on a leash so that you can quickly grab them if they need to go to the bathroom. Once again, this will be a lot easier if you have a fenced-in area for outdoor playtime but it can still be accomplished using an electronic fence if necessary. Boxers are incredibly intelligent dogs which means that most of them pick up on things very quickly. In fact, many boxer puppies learn how to properly eliminate outside all on their own within just a few days of being home with you. If they have any accidents inside, never scold them because this will only lead to confusion and mistrust. Instead, always use positive reinforcement by either praising them when they do something good or by giving them a treat whenever they go potty out in the yard. Continue doing this until they understand that going outside is the only acceptable place to have a bowel movement. I love animals and love helping people adopt a pet. It all started when attending Missouri State University and I began volunteering at an animal shelter. Menu Boxer The well-conditioned middleweight athlete of dogdom, the Boxer is a powerful dog with an intelligent and alert expression. While they are instinctive guardians, the Boxer loves to be with his people. This personality has allowed them to succeed as couriers during wartime and as seeing-eye dogs for the blind. Appearing in both fawn and brindle colors, the Boxer currently ranks as one of the most popular dogs in the United States according to AKC Registration Statistics. History Developed in Germany in the 19th century, Boxers were originally used for dog fighting and to run down and hold large game such as wild boar and bison until the hunter could arrive. The breed is known for standing up on its hind legs and batting at its opponent, appearing to box with its front paws. Imported to America after World War I, they began to grow in popularity in the late s. The Boxer requires little grooming, but needs daily exercise. The Boxer gets along great with children, often protecting them from outside threats. They are also very intelligent, therefore easy to train and housebreak. Working Group; AKC recognized in .Ranging in size from 21 inches to 25 inches tall at the shoulder. Large game hunter, guard and companion dog.

Oklahoma City: .It is a medium to large-sized dog very well known for its strength, trainability, and intelligence. Discover more about our German Shepherd puppies for sale below! Breed History In the 19th century, Shepherds bred all kinds of dogs mainly to herd and guard flocks. Thus, the dogs needed to display a high level of intelligence, extra normal strength, resilience, courage and bravery, a keen sense of smell, and trainability qualities, etc. These mongrel combinations provided dog breeds that could efficiently guard and herd flocks but differed in appearance and ability, from one locality to another. Temperament German Shepherd dogs are well known to be highly inquisitive which makes them excellent for rescue mission training. The German Shepherd has a noble character and shows very high levels of loyalty to its owners. The dog is also described as extremely territorial and has displayed characteristics of overprotectiveness in some cases. Environment The German shepherd can survive in all types of environment; their thick furriness makes them better prepared for cold climates. Exercise German Shepherds are considered extremely playful and active. These breeds spend half of their daily routine with activities. The German Shepherd is popularly known as an athletic natured dog and requires a good dose of daily exercise to keep up muscle tone, build and development. If improperly exercised the German Shepherd has been known to become frustrated and exhibit undesirable behaviors. Grooming The German Shepherd requires an occasional brushing, as this helps with removing loose hair from its fur. The German Shepherd sheds fur once or twice a year and in this time the breed requires a lot of soft brushing. This can be done using a soft to medium bristle brush. The German Shepherd occasionally requires that its nails are trimmed off when they grow too long, however, some breeds instinctually file their nails against any hard surface that can be fine. Excessive nail growth can cause much pain and even lead to structural concerns. In choosing a German Shepherd breed you must ask yourself what it is you want in a dog and what kind of person are you? Our German Shepherd puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. Contact us today to learn more about the availability of our German Shepherd puppies for sale. We look forward to helping you find your next family member. Our pet counselors can answer any questions you have about our German Shepherd puppies. A: Healthy German Shepherds live for as long as between nine to thirteen years, however, some german shepherd has lived much longer than Thirteen years. Q2: How fast can German Shepherds run? A: An adult German Shepherd can run approximately 30miles per hour. A: Originally the German Shepherd was bred for guarding and herding of flocks. The German Shepherd dog is highly intelligent and a fairly quick learner and that is why Police and Military institutions use them in operations. Q4: What is the perfect diet plan for my German Shepherd dog? A: The German Shepherd must get all required nourishment in its daily meal, which includes all types of animal protein this enables muscle development and growth , Calcium-rich food, MultiVitamin supplements, and glucose water. Real meat, bone and organ meat liver, heart, kidney is the best food for your dog. Q5: How do I care for a German Shepherd dog? A: The German Shepherd sheds lightly all through the year so be sure to brush it at least twice weekly. Bathe it after each shedding season. Brush its teeth at least once a month. Feed with healthy meals. Routine exercise of at least 45 minutes each day is crucial to the existence of a German Shepherd. Q6: Do they shed a lot? A: Yes, German Shepherds sheds heavily all year round and blows the thick, dense fur under its harsh topcoat twice a year. Q7: Are German Shepherds good with kids? A: German Shepherds are good with kids, however, they can become very protective because of this adult supervisor is highly recommended. Q8: At what age are German Shepherds fully grown? A: In moderation German Shepherds, reach full maturity between months i. There have been known cases of some Eastern European lines taking up to 3years i. Q9: Why do German shepherd ears stand up? A: During the early puppy age weeks German shepherds have floppy ears but this usually becomes pointed ears, standing up due to the cartilage in the ear becoming hard and strong thereby making the ears stand permanently. Q Are male or female German shepherd more affectionate? The female may also be less tolerable than the male when it comes to playing with children. Now in Oklahoma City, too! We are a foster-based organization working out of Tulsa and now Oklahoma City! Our dogs are cared for in private homes and we do not operate a shelter. We are an all-volunteer organization. We are always in need of more help to answer questions, check applications, socialize dogs, transports dogs to adoption events and much more. Adopt: Fill out our adoption application here. Only approved adopters may schedule meet and greets with our dogs. Even if you are unsure which dog you would like to adopt, we recommend filling out an application and getting approved first so you are ready when the right dog comes along. To ensure your new family member is a good fit, dogs may be returned within 14 days of adoption for any reason. Adoption Requirements: We require all pets in the home to be spayed or neutered, up-to-date on vaccines and on heartworm prevention. If you rent, we will need authorization from your landlord that German Shepherds are allowed. We also require a fenced-in yard. References may not be related to you. If you have questions, please send us an email! Available Dogs: View dogs available for adoption here. To meet one of our dogs, please fill out an adoption application. Foster: We are in need of folks to provide short-term, in-home care for dogs in need until they are adopted. Veterinary care, food and a large crate are provided. If you can help, please complete our foster application here. Please note, fostering is for those who want to volunteer by providing temporary housing for homeless dogs. If you are planning on adopting and just want to try out a dog in your home to see if it is the right fit, please fill out an adoption application. Only approved adopters can schedule meet and greets with our dogs. All adopted dogs can be returned within 14 days of adoption for any reason. As we work out of Tulsa and Oklahoma City, we prefer fosters to be within a 1-hour driving distance to Tulsa or OKC so they can bring a foster dog to adoption events and veterinary appointments if needed. Online Auction: Over the past few months, our rescue has seen a significant increase in dogs that have been surrendered or abandoned. When we do not have enough fosters, we have had to put dogs in boarding which also is an added expense. To raise much-needed funds, we are hosting an online auction. We will have items such as unique products and services, tickets to special events, art, jewelry, wine, restaurant and hotel gift certificates, dog items, gift baskets, etc. Stay tuned for more information! If you or your business would like to donate an item, please email: oklahomagsr gmail. Every little bit helps and the value of your donation is tax-deductible. Each auction contributor will be recognized in the online event and our Facebook page. Events: Check our Facebook page for a schedule of adoption events. Small donations add up! You may donate online or by mailing a check. Your donation is tax-deductible. Thank you! Donate Here Need to surrender a dog? If you are the owner of the dog you want to surrender, please fill out the owner surrender form. Please contact your local animal shelter or the closest SPCA or humane society for more information.

Breeds The link has been copied! However, the Border Collie Golden Retriever mix has a lot to offer as a pet. It can always be a little interesting to see what you get when mixing two dog breeds. Border Collies are mostly black and white, though there can be other colors. Goldens vary in color from light yellow to deep gold or red. The cross, sometimes called the Coltriever can be any color ranging from black and white to yellow, golden, brown, deep chocolate, or red. The best way to understand a designer dog breed a mix of two purebreds is to take a closer look at its parent breeds. As you might expect, they were used extensively for herding sheep over generations in this area. Eventually, they developed into excellent working dogs known for their intelligence, energy, and obedience. In fact, Border Collies have topped the list when it comes to ranking the smartest dog breeds. Border Collies are medium to large size dogs standing inches at the shoulder and weighing about pounds. They were made to work and require a job or at least lots of exercise and mental stimulation to be calm and happy. The Loving Golden Retriever The Golden Retriever has long been popular as a family dog in addition to being used for various jobs. Their affectionate personalities and loving attitude toward everyone they encounter are downright endearing. Interestingly, Golden Retrievers were originally developed for work. They are also from Scotland and are the result of the work of Lord Dudley Marjorbanks. He worked to produce an intelligent, hard-working dog from the extinct Tweed Water Spaniel and the Yellow Retriever. Golden Retrievers are pretty big, usually standing between inches tall and weighing up to 75 pounds. They are typically golden in color, but the shade can range from quite pale to a deep gold or red hue. However, the Golden Collie tends to be a larger dog, standing between inches and weighing pounds. Surprisingly for such a large dog, Coltrievers can handle living in small homes or even apartments — with proper exercise, of course. As descendants of the highly energetic Border Collie, these guys will go nuts if they are cooped up for too long! Goldens are famous for their easy-going, loving personalities. They are loyal, develop strong bonds with their families, and make wonderful playmates for children. As with any dog, it is important to meet their needs for mental stimulation and physical exercise. Because of their smarts, they may need more mental stimulation than other breeds but there are a lot of activities that count. Playing with the kids, puzzle games , fetch, swimming, jogging, hiking , and so much more make these pups super happy! The last section gives you a big hint — yes, Golden Border Retrievers make excellent family dogs. Because they need so much attention, it can be hard for a single person or even a couple who work outside the home to provide enough interaction for the dog. But you put a whole family in the house and that Golden Border Retriever is in heaven! They will happily play with your kids and will be gentle and loving. They will always let you know when a stranger is coming to visit! Everybody wants a well-behaved dog and it takes time and patience to achieve that. However, some dogs are easier to train than others. For busy families that may not have tons of time to dedicate to dog training, easy trainability is a big plus. Well, the Golden Border Retriever is a great choice. They can get themselves into trouble if they are bored, so plenty of mental stimulation and exercise is a must — or your furniture could pay the price. If you like the idea of a dog that can learn lots of cool and unusual tricks, this is a great dog to pick. They are also great dogs for competing in agility and other canine sports. Outside the home, Golden Border Retrievers are fantastic for use in a variety of jobs. Their smarts and obedience make them easy to use for herding, retrieving, and everything in between. But one thing is certain, they have a lot of hair and will shed frequently. Because these dogs are certainly not it. To keep their coats somewhat under control, expect to brush their hair at least once a week. Baths only need to happen about once or twice a month. Be careful not to bathe too frequently or their skin can dry out. And make sure to keep those floppy ears clean and dry to help avoid ear infections. Just as with humans, it depends on their age, size, activity level, and other factors. Adjust accordingly if you notice they are getting thinner or putting on more weight. For exercise, remember these guys are quite the energetic pups! It is best to provide your pup with at least 90 minutes of vigorous exercise daily. Though if your schedule allows, these pups will happily go strong for minutes a day and still race you to the front door! Health Concerns for the Golden Retriever and Border Collie Unfortunately, all dogs can get sick, regardless of their breed. That may be somewhat true for the breed as a whole, but individual dogs could also be susceptible to the health problems of both their parent breeds. For Coltrievers, this means they can be plagued by the health problems of both the Border Collie and the Golden Retriever. Both dog breeds are susceptible to bloat and allergies. Elbow and hip dysplasia are also common and may be passed on to their designer dog offspring. Border Collies can pass on progressive retinal atrophy and collie eye anomaly. Both of these conditions can cause loss of eyesight if not treated. Deafness and epilepsy are also common issues. Golden Retrievers contribute heart problems, other eye conditions like pigmentary uveitis, and, unfortunately, cancer. All in all, Golden Border Retrievers are generally healthy dogs and can be expected to live a long life with proper care. The average life expectancy of the crossbreed is around years. Breeders love the idea of mixing their intelligence and obedience with the looks or other characteristics of different dog breeds. Thus, there are quite a few options for Border Collie crossbreeds to choose from. The Border Aussie is very similar to the Border Collie in smarts and personality. Plus, this dog is smarter than the average toddler, so watch out and get ready to teach him lots of tricks! The Border Collie Chihuahua mix is a designer dog breed that has become quite famous in the last few years. That's because these dogs are smart, playful, and active. They also make great pets for people who live in small apartments or homes. The Border Collie German Shepherd mix , also known as the Shollie, is a unique and intelligent breed that combines the workaholic nature of the Border Collie with the protective instincts of the German Shepherd. These dogs are known for their loyalty, intelligence, and versatility, and they excel in a wide range of activities, from herding to search and rescue. A Bordoodle is a great option. With the right mix, the Poodle contributes a slightly curly, low-shed coat. The Golden Border Collie makes a fabulous companion for the right family. They can be content in an apartment or small home, but only if you have the time and energy to exercise them daily. They need to run at the local dog park, go on a hike, explore new areas, or participate in agility or other canine sports to get enough exercise. For this reason, they can be a better option if you have a house with a sizeable yard or live on a farm. If you have kids, these are great dogs to consider. They make loving and playful companions and your dog and the kids will help tire each other out. They may try to herd people around, which can be intimating for small children, but gentle correction usually takes care of that quite easily. These guys crave attention and love companionship so they will get lonely and anxious on their own for more than 6 hours every day. They are friendly and loving, even with strangers, so you can have guests over without worrying about your dog being suspicious or aloof. All in all, the Golden Border Retriever is a wonderful companion dog for active families. Find more helpful articles on pet-parenting at the Off Leash blog at TryFi. Also, be sure to check out TryFi's Fi Dog Collar , a cutting-edge GPS tracking collar that keeps you updated on your dog's location, activity, sleep, and alerts you if they escape the backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. From a very young age we train our puppies in a few things that aid them in being successful adults as family members, companions, service dogs, agility dogs. The Coltriever is a mid sized dog, they weigh between pounds and are built similar to a Golden Retriever. Available Puppies Our next litter will be in September ready for their new home in early November. Usually we have… Early Learning Each of my litters is born inside my home, rather than a kennel setting. This allows them to hear the sounds and smell the scents associated with a household from the very start. They are continually exposed to the everyday sights and sounds of a family home. This includes potentially scary sounds such as vacuum… About Our Puppies I have been raising Coltrievers in Lacey, Washington since .They are a designer dog, which is a mix of Golden Retriever and Border Collie breeds. They are a mid- sized dog, weighing between 40 and 80 pounds. The conformation of a Coltriever is similar to a Golden Retriever. Addie Belle is a huge part of the heart and soul of our home. We love her SO much. And, yes we could be tempted by a sibling some day. Thank you for giving me my Sprinkle. They are active, dedicatedly loyal, and have an intense eagerness to please their owners just for a little attention. Their obedience is quickly reflected through their affectionate and friendly nature, thus making them good with kids. Though some Gollies might tend to be shy, they are highly sociable, being in a jovial mood most of the time. Hence, they do not do well when kept alone for extended periods. Some dog enthusiasts think that so much of cheerfulness in their character failed to make them a good guardian. This assumption, however, is not correct, since their alertness is readily apprehensible from their barking instinct. Gollies are very active and responsive, making for excellent watchdogs. They would start to bark the moment they come across a stranger around and alert their family members about the same. Care Exercise These canids need regular exercise to burn down their calories. Take them out on a walk or jog on a routine basis to channelize their energy positively. Let them play in an enclosed yard if you have one. A total of around 90 minutes of daily physical activities is enough for this breed. Grooming The coat of the Golden Collie is average to long, and their shedding is moderate to high. For this, they need high maintenance, especially if your dog is double-coated, having a long and rough outer coat with a soft undercoat. Brush them regularly, at least times a week, so as to keep their coat smooth and glossy. Regular brushing also promotes blood flow and enhances hair growth. Hence, it is better to consult your breeder about the health history of its parents. Interactive toys that make sounds or dispense treats would give your dog the incentive to work harder. Try frozen Kong toys stuffed with peanut butter. This trick should work. To prevent your dog from being overly excited when your guests come in, teach him to display a controlled behavior when the doorbell rings. Ask your puppy to sit close to the door, and press the doorbell, holding a treat in your hand. If your puppy starts to show any sign of excitement, go close to it and ask it to calm down, showing the gift, but do not give it away. Next, repeat the process and do the same, if your dog shows any sign of excitement. Give the treat as it obeys you and sits down calmly. Doing this activity from time to time would help your dog will learn to put a check to its overly wild behavior as well as refrain from incessant barking habits. Both working breeds may do different tasks, but combining them makes an intelligent, loving, obedient, and agile offspring. Getting to know the Border Collie and Golden Retriever will already give a hint of what your Coltriever would be like in terms of looks and behavior. Through generations, this sheepdog which is the definition of the term Collie in Scottish became popular. Nowadays, Border Collies are touted as the smartest and the most excellent herding dog. They have a height of 18 to 22 inches 46 to 56 cm and a weight of 30 to 45 pounds 14 to 20 kg , where the females are a tad smaller. Black and white are the most common combination seen in the breed, though. They have high energy levels that would require lots of physical and mental stimulation. The popular and affectionate Golden Retriever A lord named Dudley Marjorbanks of the Scottish Highlands wanted to create a gundog that can adjust well to rugged grounds and rainy climates. After long years of breeding, he finally got the hardworking and smart Golden Retriever. Goldens are beautiful, large dogs that can stand between 21 to 24 inches 53 to 6 cm and can weigh up to 75 pounds 34 kg. They can either have wavy or straight hair, and feathering on their chest, underbody, legs, and tail. It can be light or dark gold, and some have a paler shade that gives a cream hue. Goldens are bright and are often used in different kinds of jobs, such as search and rescue missions. What does a Border Collie Golden Retriever mix look like? The Golden Border Collie will either inherit features from both its parents or more on one parent. Since both of the parent breeds have a fairly dense, double-layered coat, so will this hybrid. Some may get the rough and corded fur of the Border Collie, while others get the wavy and silky look of the Golden Retriever. The colors of the Border Golden Retriever can vary from black, black and white, yellow or golden, light or dark brown, chocolate, and red. Most of them have markings on their face and chest. Both the Borders and Goldens range from moderate to heavy shedders, so expect the Coltriever to do so as well. How big do Border Collie-Golden Retriever mixes get? When full-grown, this mixed breed can weigh 45 to 75 pounds 20 to 34 kg , with a height of 24 to 25 inches 61 to 64 cm. With the easy-going, happy, and kind personality of the Golden Retriever, and the eager to please, hardworking, and intelligent Border Collie, this crossbreed seems to be quite a perfect canine. Are Border Collie Golden Retrievers good family dogs? Border Golden Retrievers may not be an excellent guard dog or watchdog, but you can rely on them to be top-notch alarms! If you keep a pretty garden, it may be an issue because this pooch loves digging and getting dirty in the mud. Once she sees a muddy area, distract her away from it. Is the Golden Retriever Border Collie mix easy to train? This crossbreed is very trainable as it inherited the intelligence of the Border Collie and Golden Retriever. You can start training from puppyhood to help avoid behavioral issues from developing, too. Agile dogs will do excellent at agility rings, but with this mixed breed, they can do so much more! Their high energy levels would require them to be active as much as they can. As a pet, a lot of walking, running, hiking, and swimming would be great. For mental stimulation, there are a lot of puzzle toys where you can hide treats, and the dog has to figure out how to get it. Kick it up a notch because the Golden Border Retriever is considered as a sporting and working dog, too. They can be trained and used for herding, retrieving, and other canine sports. This designer pooch has a coat that helps it adjust in all weather conditions. Bathing should only be done once or twice a month, or when necessary, to avoid drying out her skin. Weekly brushing is needed to keep her hair from taking over your house. It should depend on factors such as their size, age, daily activities, and their current health condition. A Border Collie would generally require to 1, calories a day, while a Golden Retriever needs to 1, calories. For their mixed-breed offspring, it can be anywhere between those numbers. There are also dog foods that are best for working or sporting dogs. The Coltriever requires at least 90 minutes of exercise a day. With their high activity level, you can give your fur baby up to minutes, if your time and energy allow it. A technique you can do is start slow, then increase the time of exercise gradually as you go. Health problems the Golden Retriever and Border Collie cross may inherit No matter if the dog is pure or a crossbreed, all canines are susceptible to particular ailments. The breed parents may pass health conditions to their litter, especially the illnesses that they both have. Golden Retrievers are prone to heart problems like subvalvular aortic stenosis, eye conditions such as pigmentary uveitis, as well as cancer. Other diseases that the Border Collie and Golden Retriever mix may have are allergies, bloating, and elbow and hip dysplasia. With proper care combined with a healthy diet and lifestyle, your Golden Border Retriever can enjoy their average life expectancy of 12 to 15 years. Border Collie Golden Retriever mix breeders Reputable breeders test their dogs used in breeding for genetic conditions that are common in each breed. They are going to provide medical certificates as proof that the Border Collie and Golden Retriever parents are free of ailments before breeding. Get the chance to observe if the puppies were born and raised in a clean place. Lifespan Sociability Given how well-known its parent breeds are, you may think that you already understand everything about Golden Border Retrievers—and you might be right. If you value your lawn or garden, this dog may not be right for you. They love everyone and everything, although they may be a bit shy around strangers. Are These Dogs Good for Families? In fact, you may need to enlist the entire family in tuckering these dogs out, as meeting their exercise requirements may be overwhelming for a single person. Having multiple family members who can take turns throwing a ball or a stick definitely comes in handy. Golden Border Retrievers are generally welcoming to strangers, although socialization helps in this regard. Also, they have strong herding instincts, so while they may not chase or attack your cat or other small pet, they may try to push it around a little bit. Here are a few things you should know about the breed before you bring one home. That usually means kibble with plenty of protein in it, preferably from a variety of lean meats. Protein burns more slowly than carbs do, so your pup will have plenty of energy to stay active all day long. The primary ingredients to watch out for in a kibble are cheap fillers like corn, wheat, and soy. These are packed with empty calories and can cause digestive issues in some dogs. Instead, look for high-quality fruits and veggies. These dogs fail to see the appeal of an afternoon spent in front of the television. They need exercise—a great deal of it. These brainy pups love to be challenged, so obedience training, agility work, and puzzles are all likely to go over well with one of these pooches. Their big brains can quickly figure out what you want them to do, and they love to make you happy. As noted above, these dogs have destructive tendencies that need to be curbed, and they need proper socialization if you expect them to have good manners in public. You can teach these dogs to do just about anything. They respond well to positive reinforcement while punishing them is likely to backfire. Praise and affection are generally all you need to use as rewards, so be careful about handing out treats. You can quickly overload these dogs with cookies if you give them one every time they do something right. Their other grooming needs are fairly typical. They need their teeth brushed several times a week, their nails trimmed as needed, and their body bathed a couple of times a year. Be careful not to bathe them too often, though, as that can strip their coats of essential oils and dry out their skin. Below are a few of the issues that may come up if you bring one of these dogs home. Minor Conditions. Since they are known to shed frequently, they can cause allergies and other irritations. The basic grooming processes needed are: Brushing their furs weekly with a solid bristle brush to prevent them from shedding their coats too much; Cleaning their ears weekly to prevent ear infections; Bathing of one to two times a month; and Having their nails trimmed once they get too long. For first time owners who do not have experience with grooming dogs, this can be difficult because this breed requires high-maintenance grooming. You should see a veterinarian first to ask the grooming practices necessary for your dog. You need to follow the practices always. Excessive shedding is possible, so bath should be given at most twice a month. Their skins can also dry out if bathing is done irregularly. When bathing your dog, use a shampoo specialized for their furs to keep the quality. This mix is also prone to ear infections. Prevention is better than cure, so every week cleaning of the ear should be done. Their ears are one of the essential parts of their body. They cannot carry out their daily activities if their ears are in bad condition. Also, you must also trim their nails if they got too long to avoid future injuries from scratches. There are times that they even scratch their skins, so you must always monitor their nails. Golden Border Retriever Health Problems If the parents of the mixes have disorders, the chances are high that the offspring can inherit the disorder. However, there are cases in which the puppies are healthy even if one of the parents is diagnosed with a disease. It is better to check the pedigree of the crossbreed to verify if it is free from a severe illness. In biology, there is an incident known as hybrid vigor; it means that the offspring is better than its parents in several aspects such as physical characteristics and health. When you adopt a Golden Retriever Border Collie crossbreed, these are the following disorders that can attack your puppy: Skin Allergies Heart Diseases Obsessive Compulsive Disorder Because this breed shed too much, they are vulnerable to skin allergies. Once grooming is not taken care of, allergies can follow. Aside from the allergies that the shedding will bring you, your dog can also be affected by excessive removals of coats. Even though they are medium-sized dogs, bloating is also common to them. When the food matrix is not followed correctly, obesity can happen; it is a prerequisite to severe disorders. The excess weight of your dog can result in heart problems. As mentioned, this breed is highly intelligent, one of the mental diseases that this breed can develop is the Obsessive Compulsive Disorder OCD which can be similar to humans. It will be a nuisance not just for your dog, but to you also. If they have their check-ups regularly, most of these mixes live up to 15 years. Make sure to prioritize their health. Border Collie Mixed with Golden Retriever Food Requirements Researches have proven that the amount of food intake in an individual dog is varying. The nutritional requirement of each dog is dependent on factors like weight, height, and the activities done by your dog. In the case of Border Collie mixed with Golden Retriever puppies, there is also no suggested food servings. For this breed, table foods or the foods consumed by humans cannot be fed to them. They are sensitive regarding the food they are eating. The dog food that you must give to the puppies should contain the necessary amount of vitamins and minerals for their growth. Puppies can be fed thrice in a day. As they grow, their needs for food is decreasing. To prevent obesity in dogs, a meal given twice in a day is recommended. Make a schedule on when to feed them so that they will be used to it; make sure to follow it regularly. In feeding your dogs, make sure to check the suggested amount of servings in the pack of the dog food that you bought. Monitoring the feeding habit of your dogs is essential. Their optimum performance will be achieved if they are given the right amount of food. There are also diets designed for highly skilled dogs. You should consult a veterinarian if you are planning a diet for your dog. Make sure to match their food matrix with their activities. If you want to give your pooch a happy and healthy life, start with nutrition. Avoid food that could be harmful to their health, such as the worst dry dog food. In case you brought a puppy to your home and the little munchkin is just getting used to regular food, take a look at the list of the best puppy food brands. Older dogs should also eat healthy food which is suggested in the best senior dry dog list. Your puppies come from two different parents, which makes them more likely to grow to love dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. They require long hours of exercise. An average of 90 minutes a day is recommended. The hours needed for their exercise is comparably longer to the number of minutes required by some breeds. The reason for this is their highly active lifestyle. Without exercise, the level of their energy can be difficult to match. Even if you are not supervising them, they can exercise on their own. Allocate a place in your home where they can play around. They will eventually stop exercising once they get tired because these dogs know their limits. If you have a backyard at your home, it is the perfect spot for your dog to exercise. Let it run around your yard. With that simple activity, risks of developing serious heart conditions can be reduced. Besides, extra calories can also be burned; therefore, they can be less prone to obesity. As discussed, Golden Collie can make a great exercise companion. You can have them join you in your exercise routines such as: Jogging.

I can give you some examples of how much a Bernedoodle costs from specific breeders. What Factors Affect the Price of a Bernedoodle? This means that certain puppies will end up being more expensive than others. How much does a Bernedoodle cost? Coat Color Although Bernese Mountain Dogs all have the same three colors in their distinctive pattern with a white stripe down the nose, Bernedoodle coloring is much more variable. There are four primary color profiles for Bernedoodles, each of which has a price range associated with it. Tri-Color Bernedoodle The hybrid dogs that most closely resemble purebred Bernese Mountain dogs are the most in-demand and, therefore, also the most expensive. This is clear white, rust, and jet black. Clearly defined areas with little to no blending. Instead, most of their fur is white, with large brown blotches on their body and brown fur around their eyes. Since they have such a distinctive look, these are the second most expensive Bernedoodle. Phantom Bernedoodle A Phantom Bernedoodle also has two colors, with the main color being black, usually with inconsistent brown coloring. In many ways, they resemble the look of a Rottweiler or Doberman. These are often the least expensive. Merle Bernedoodles A Merle Bernedoodle has the most inconsistent coloring, but they pull it off. They have one solid base color, but many lighter grays and browns are speckled throughout. If you look at breeders based in laces with high average salaries and a generally expensive cost of living, you can expect to pay much more for a puppy. The price drops when you take a look at regional centers like Nashville. Prices can go even higher if we start talking about the even smaller teacup and micro mini Bernedoodle sizes bred with a toy Poodle. Type of Coat There are three different types of coat that a Bernedoodle can have: curly, wavy, and straight. Dogs with curly coats ate the most expensive, those with wavy coats the second most expensive, and those with straight coats the least expensive. Watch more dog videos on the Oodle Life YouTube channel. These have the greatest chance of inheriting traits from either parent breed. The hypoallergenic coat is from the Poodle parent — so if the Bernedoodle ends up mimicking this trait expect non-shedding. If bred with a Standard Poodle these are still very large dogs. A multigen or F2 Bernedoodle can have more predictable characteristics — just look to the parents. A reputable breeder will clearly identifiy which generation your hybrid dog is. The quality breeder will have an idea of the apperance and coat type your dog will have no guarantees. A cruddy puppy mill will not have as much info on each litter. Putting it All Together All of these factors interact with one another as breeders are deciding how much to charge for their puppies. That means that puppies that combine the most desirable features will be the most expensive. Check Out Their Website The first step is to see what the online presence of a breeder looks like. Who would you pick in the Bernedoodle Vs Goldendoodle battle? Go For a Visit Unquestionably, the best way to tell whether a dog breeder is reputable is by visiting them and seeing how they operate. Issues like a lack of cleanliness, knowledge, or care can bring about adverse outcomes for a Bernedoodle pup in the long run. Adopting from a Bernedoodles Rescue? You will be hard pressed to find a Bernedoodle puppy in an adoption centre or Bernedoodle rescue. They are too in demand and rare. The best bet is to follow the groups listed in our Cockapoo rescue guide. These Poodle mix rescues are where you would be most likely to find a rare Berendoodle rescue. Pro tip: Join local and statewide Bernedoodle dog owner groups. Put your name out there as an option for a belived Bernedoodle that needs rehoming for a reason typically it is size and when owners are forced to move to small quarters or a city. Summing Up Buying a dog is a big decision and a big responsibility. When it comes to Bernedoodles, the newness of the breed, runaway popularity, and comparative lack of options mean that the breed is very expensive. Just how picky you are with what you want yourmmixed breed puppy to look like will significantly impact the price. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. About Bernedoodles About Bernedoodles The bernedoodle is a cross between a Bernese mountain dog and a poodle. This hybrid blends the clever goofiness of the poodle, with the placid loyalty of the Bernese. I believe the bernedoodle is the perfect companion dog. Although many are stunning, they are not bred for the show ring. They are meant to be at your side no matter whether you are hiking, snowshoeing, or lying on the couch watching a movie. Their only job is to be your best friend. No two bernedoodles are identical. That said, prospective owners must understand that there can be a lot of variation in a hybrid litter, and must therefore choose a breeder who can help match them with the best dog for their circumstances. Purebreds may be the preferred choice for people who want predictability. When I was writing descriptions of my dogs, I was struck by the consistency of the traits among the purebreds. With some minor variations, one well-bred Berner is very similar to the next: sweet, loving, and calm. One well-bred poodle is also very similar to the next: playful, intelligent, and goofy. This has led not only to health problems, but also to temperament issues. Poorly bred Berners may be extremely stubborn and skittish. Poorly bred poodles may be hyper and neurotic. It is incredibly difficult to find healthy Bernese and poodles with calm temperaments that also happen to be gorgeous. They are completely dedicated to their families, with a special fondness for children. In fact, they are so loyal that it can be difficult to re-home an adult Berner and break its original bond. Berners are known for leaning on people to soak up all possible attention. Berners are exceptionally beautiful dogs with their distinctive tri-coloured coats. Bred in the Swiss Alps as farm dogs that pulled carts or drove cattle to market, the Bernese thrives in cold weather, and has a double coat that sheds quite heavily. This versatile breed does well in agility, tracking, herding, and therapy work. A significant number of Bernese are afflicted with hip and elbow dysplasia, or succumb to inherited cancer, heart disease, or epilepsy in middle age. While cancer is the leading cause of death for dogs in general, Bernese have a much higher rate of fatal cancer than other breeds. Overall, the Berner is one of the shorter-lived dog breeds, with a life expectancy of just seven years. This is particularly sad when the Berner is known for being slow to mature, and somewhat challenging to train. Without proper socialization, these naturally cautious and reserved dogs can become skittish and suspicious and may develop separation anxiety. They can also be decidedly stubborn. Yet, the Bernese also has a deep need to please their humans and are surprisingly sensitive. As a result, training a Berner requires a great deal of patience and a gentle hand. The Poodle Everyone knows that the poodle ranks high on the canine intelligence scale. They are very trainable and excel in obedience. Most people are also aware that their low to non-shedding coat makes poodles a great choice for those with allergies. But the poodle is more than a clever show dog; it is believed to have originated as a water retriever in Germany. Poodles come in three sizes and a wide variety of colours. Where most dogs have double coats, poodles have a single-layer coat of dense, curly fur that sheds minimally, but does mat without proper care. A typical poodle is lively and playful, with a bouncy prance to its walk. It thrives best in a busy household, where it can get plenty of attention and stimulation. If bored, poodles may get into mischief. They are also quick to sound an alert, and have earned a reputation for barking. Some poodles are high strung and sensitive to stress. They may have serious health problems, including eye, skin, and digestive diseases, as well as immune system diseases. Bernese Meets Poodle…Magic Ensues If a breeder does their due diligence in selecting the right parents, crossing purebred dogs of different breeds results in puppies that are healthier than either of their parents. This is because the two breeds are generally prone to different genetic problems. Hybrids such as the bernedoodle are only likely to inherit a health problem that is common to both the poodle and the Bernese — two breeds that share few common diseases. A hybrid dog combines the traits and characteristics of its purebred parents. With careful, conscientious breeding, the resulting pups may end up with the best attributes of each. In the case of the bernedoodle, the blend of the Bernese and the poodle produces a smart, friendly, playful dog. They tend to have the sweetness and loyalty of the Bernese, and the goofy liveliness and intelligence of the poodle. Like the Bernese, they are gentle around children and the elderly, and because they love to work, they often make excellent therapy dogs. Most bernedoodles have a moderate activity level. Most of them have little need for personal space. My clients most commonly describe their bernedoodles as happy, goofy, smart, charming, curious, friendly, social, enthusiastic, cuddly, and loving. Despite my efforts to breed only the best purebreds, some offspring may inherit stubbornness or sensitivity from the Bernese. Their training requires patience, a light touch, and positive reinforcement. Further, from the poodle they can inherit an extremely high level of energy. In general, the bernedoodle is an intelligent, social, fun crossbreed with character and charisma. On the whole, bernedoodles tend to be quite similar to goldendoodles in nature, with the most notable difference being that the bernedoodle can be headstrong. This is more pronounced at the puppy stage, and tends to disappear when the bernedoodle is older and trained. Every dog has a different personality, but the two breeds have much in common, and those traits make them excellent family pets. Appearance Bernedoodles are usually pure black, black and white, black and brown, or tri-colour black, white and brown , but I have seen other colours. Their overall appearance combines elements of the Bernese and the poodle. Beyond colour, well-chosen parents tend to blend the traits of the poodle and the Berner in a fairly consistent way. In short, bernedoodles tend to look like shaggy teddy bears! Many clients want a tri-color bernedoodle, with markings as similar as possible to those of the Bernese mountain dog. That look is challenging to achieve, and people may have a long wait for it. Personally, I love bernedoodles of all colours. Temperament is far more important to me than colour and colours can fade. Coat Every bernedoodle has a different coat. The majority have a wavy coat that sheds minimally, if at all. Most people with allergies to dog dander i. However, the straighter the coat, the more it sheds, and the less suitable the dog will be for people with allergies. Bernedoodles with a curly coat are similar to the poodle and will not shed. While there are no guarantees, even if you have serious allergies to dander, you should do well with a curly-coated bernedoodle. Breeders can often tell by the time a dog is a few weeks old what type of coat it will have, and can help match you to the best coat type for your situation. If you are allergic to dog saliva, and your skin breaks out in hives when licked by a dog, you will most likely be allergic to all bernedoodles regardless of coat type. Since there are no absolute guarantees with coat type, responsible breeders will give you some time to see if you are allergic to your puppy and will allow you to return the pup if it is not working out. Since most bernedoodles shed little, if at all, they need to be brushed regularly to prevent matting, and must be clipped every few months. Sizes Bernedoodles come in different sizes, depending on the parents and the vagaries of genetics. Females are usually smaller than males. A Standard Bernedoodle results from crossing a standard poodle with a Bernese mountain dog. They will generally be 50 lbs and up, and around 23 to 29 inches at the shoulder. Most standards are in the 70 to 90 lbs range. A mini bernedoodle results from crossing a miniature poodle with a Bernese mountain dog. They generally range from 25 to 49 lbs, and are 18 to 22 inches at the shoulder. A tiny bernedoodle results from crossing a toy poodle with a mini bernedoodle. They range from 10 to 24 lbs, and are about 12 to 17 inches at the shoulder. These ranges capture the averages, but sometimes a pup will fall outside the expected height and weight. In terms of temperament, mini and tiny bernedoodles may have a slightly higher energy level than the standard, to reflect the same in the miniature and toy poodle parents. However, using calm poodles, regardless of size, tends to produce docile bernedoodles. Different Generations F1 is a first generation cross in which the pup is 50 percent Bernese mountain dog and 50 percent poodle. The F1 cross is considered the healthiest, as the parents have the least likelihood of contributing genes for common inheritable diseases. F1b is a backcross in which a bernedoodle is bred with a poodle. The puppy is 25 percent Bernese, and 75 percent poodle. F1b puppies are the most likely to be non-shedding and allergy-friendly. Some breeders have backcrossed a bernedoodle with a Bernese, which results in a dog with more of the Bernese traits. I prefer not to breed this backcross as there is a greater likelihood of shedding. F2 is a second-generation cross in which an F1 bernedoodle is crossed with another F1 bernedoodle. If this is done for seven generations, a breeder could apply to register this dog as a purebred. The closer the generations come together, the more consistency there will be in the lines, but the genetic problems of the purebreds are more likely too reappear, and hybrid vigor diminishes. Some F2 pups may have an improper coat instead of the fleecy softness we love in the doodles. While bernedoodles vary in appearance and coat type, an experienced breeder will be able to give you an idea of what the pup will look like as an adult, based on what the parents have produced in the past and what traits they see in the pup. Health and Lifespan As a breed, the bernedoodle is still young, so there is limited information about longevity and health concerns. Of the hundreds of bernedoodles I have bred in the past decade, only few owners have reported a genetic health concern. Therefore, I am confident that hybrid vigor is indeed creating a healthier dog that will be with you for a long time. At this point, I can only estimate an average lifespan: I predict standard bernedoodles will live years, mini bernedoodles up to 17 years, and tiny bernedoodles up to 18 years. Usually, the smaller the dog, the longer it lives. While bernedoodles tend to be healthier than their parent breeds, they can still be prone to conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia and certain eye problems. Skin problems, such as hot spots and allergies, are also seen in this mix. Like any other breed of dog, they may get cancer. Genetic testing can reduce the risk of many diseases. A reputable breeder will perform a number of tests and provide evidence of the successful results. This investment is usually reflected in the higher cost of the puppy for the buyer. A higher upfront cost will most likely reduce vet bills down the road. Bernedoodle Mismatch I believe the bernedoodle is a suitable dog for most people, with a few caveats: This is a very social dog that thrives on plenty of human interaction; if you have limited time for a dog, this may not be the breed for you. A low- to non-shedding coat means more time, effort, and money spent on grooming. If your bernedoodle should happen to inherit the higher energy of the poodle or the stubbornness of the Bernese — or both! But if you have the time and enthusiasm, I predict your bernedoodle will become the best friend you ever had — at least of the canine variety. Watch me Grow. With two decades of experience in breeding dogs, we pride ourselves on selecting only the best dogs for our breeding program, which in turn ensures that we are producing the best puppies imaginable. We perform a series of strict health tests, including hip and elbow testing; eyes, heart, skin, and patella testing; and a series of genetic tests, on all of our breeding dogs. Please feel free to contact us with any questions. We look forward to matching you with your next best friend! We wrote the first book on Bernedoodles buy now This comprehensive, easy-to-read and entertaining book covers everything you need to know about this amazing hybrid. Since Bernedoodles can vary significantly in size, build, coloring, and even personality, prospective owners need advice from someone who knows the breed inside out. Who better than the breeder who created them? Often people will want one of my dogs because they are irresistibly adorable. Please take the time to consider if this breed is the right choice for you and your family. Click the link above to answer some questions to help you see if our doodles are the best match for you. Trained Dogs Available Available Now Below are puppies that we kept from previous litters and are selling with training and no wait times! Ariel Ariel is a Golden Mountain Doodle out of Rue and Henry She comes with 8 weeks of training buyers choice where she will learn the commands: sit, down, come, stay, leave it, watch me, walking on a leash and place. She will learn puppy manners and will be crate trained and started with house training. The trainers also do a handling exercise with the puppies and get them used to grooming. She is microchipped, up to date on vaccines, dewormed and comes with a 2 year health guarantee. Both her parents have all their required health clearances which can be viewed on our website. She enjoys meeting new people and exploring her surroundings. Ariel will make one lucky family a happy and loving little companion. Ariel loves playing with toys or exploring her environment with curiosity and a sense of adventure. She brings a sense of fun and excitement to those around her. Ariel has an affectionate, happy, and loving nature. She often seeks closeness and enjoys cuddling, snuggling, and receiving attention from everyone. Ariel is not only social, happy, playful, and affectionate but also quite intelligent and a fast learner. She loves training sessions and loves to please. Ariel has a remarkable ability to pick up on commands and learn new things. Her young mind is receptive and eager to please her people, making training sessions an enjoyable experience. Potty and crate training are important aspects of raising a puppy, and Ariel is doing well in both areas. Ariel is an extremely intelligent and well-rounded puppy. She has the personality that will do well with just about any family! She comes with 8 weeks of training where she will learn the commands: sit, down, come, stay, leave it, watch me, walking on a leash and place. The trainers also do handling exercises with the puppies and get them used to grooming. She is extremely loyal and joyful once she comes to trust you and is compliant and content once she is comfortable in the hands of her handler. Once that trust is earned you will have an unbreakable bond with her. A pup like Pip benefits from long term training to give her a positive task to focus on which is the perfect way to keep her mind busy and create positive associations to different scenarios, while also forming an unbreakable bond between her and her owner. While training in different environments, she is indifferent to her surroundings as she is focused on the task at hand, always giving her something to do in public settings and encouraging focus and engagement regardless of her surroundings. She does enjoy interacting with people as long as she chooses the pace and initiates the interaction and they do not come on too strong. She is goofy and happy and often dances around the training room or the yard and is welcome to be her complete self. She loves being outdoors and there is nowhere she is happier than an open field or on outdoor walks. She is great with other dogs and often sets a good example for the younger pups as she is very well behaved and relaxed in the crate, car and around the home. Her focus is easily directed to a bone and she has amazing food drive, making her easy to work with and teach behaviors. I think Pip would do well with either someone who is experienced with dogs or lives in a country or suburb setting. She would do well with other dogs, especially confident ones. She is ready to go to her new home this week! He comes with 8 weeks of training where he will learn the commands: sit, down, come, stay, leave it, watch me, walking on a leash and place. He will learn puppy manners and will be crate trained and started with house training. He is microchipped, up to date on vaccines, dewormed and comes with a 2 year health guarantee. Both his parents have all their required health clearances which can be viewed on our website. He is carefree which makes him easy to engage with and train. He showcases his manners when meeting new people, making him a delightful companion in any social setting. Thor is a social butterfly and would jump in any strangers car! He has a very adaptable personality and adores everyone he meets! He loves to explore and fearlessly embraces unfamiliar surroundings, all while remaining responsive to commands. He will be ready on September 23rd. Please message if you have further questions about Thor. Pictures coming soon. Playful is an understatement when it comes to describing Phoebe. Her days are filled with enthusiasm, as she eagerly explores her surroundings, always on the lookout for new adventures. Her silly antics are sure to bring laughter and smiles to anyone around. Outgoing and social, Phoebe is a natural charmer. She thrives on human and canine companionship, making friends wherever she goes. She has a very friendly nature as she approaches each new interaction with a wagging tail and a bright sparkle in her eyes. Her zest for life is unparalleled, and she will inspire those around her to live in the present moment. In summary, Phoebe is not your average puppy. She is a bundle of joy and has a warm and outgoing personality. With Phoebe by your side, life will become a journey filled with love, laughter, and adventure. A family who wants to involve their dog in their adventures. She will be ready for her new home September 16th. Please message if you have further questions about Phoebe. Here is a little more information about Peppers personality from her trainer! She has a more reserved personality, and we are working on building up her confidence. Once she is comfortable around someone then she is a very happy, excited puppy. We are working on building up her food drive and motivation to do training. For the most part she is quiet and content in her crate. She adapted to the crate very quickly. Pepper has gone on some car rides and sat in the crate in the back with no issue. She just relaxes. Pepper is incredibly sweet with every child she has met. She will curl up on their lap and stay with them for as long as they want. I have young kids in the house and she is always approaching them wanting to play or lay with them. Although she can be a bit hesitant to approach some adults, she always eventually warms up to them. She is a puppy who will love and be devoted to her owners but is not a dog who will love to be pet by every stranger on the street. As I walk around the house, she loves to follow me around but she is also happy to hang out in the gated off area and play with some toys without any humans this shows her affection towards people she knows, but also shows that she can be independent. Pepper loves smaller sized dogs and plays very well with them. She is a little nervous of the larger sized dogs. She will be best for a family who wants a quiet dog and a family who does not live in a busy environment. A calm environment in the country or suburbs with a fenced yard is best. She will be perfect for a family who wants a house dog that they can cuddle with and spoil. She is ready to go home September 9th. He has an outgoing personality, and he enjoys meeting new friends. He is active but not high energy; he is perfectly content to just go with the flow. He is cuddly and loves to be around people. He has a funny personality that will make you smile. He likes being held and will try to curl up in your lap if you let him. He is being raised around both dogs and cats. He loves to play with other dogs, and he quickly makes new canine friends. He enjoys going for brief strolls and he loves to explore outdoors. He is not much of a chewer, but he does like to carry toys around the house. Bernard is smart but he can be a little stubborn when it comes to training. He is food motivated and he responds well to praise, however, he gets distracted often. This will get better as we build more on engagement. He learns best during shorter training sessions that are kept interesting and engaging. His potty training is coming along very well! He is doing well with his loose leash walking, and he is eager to go out and explore. Bernard has had some brief interactions with children, and he would be comfortable in a home with kids. He loves other animals and would do well in a house with other pets too. He is already starting to sleep through the night in his crate 11 PM to 6 AM. He is rocking his potty training and he will bark in his crate when he needs to be let outside. Bernard would be the perfect addition to any family looking for a puppy to join them on a new adventure! Please message if you have further questions about Bernard. On a side note I noticed with this pup is his bottom k9 teeth are going into the upper palate just a tad, which if I has to guess, I think this will self correct. This can correct itself when the adult teeth come in, sometimes if I see this in pups and they go to 8 weeks of training, when they come back the teeth are the way they should be. This is caused either because the canines come in a bit crooked or the lower jaw is a bit narrows and as the puppies continue to grow and develop that self corrects. Saje Saje is a Standard Bernedoodle. She has learned the commands sit, down, come, stay, leave it, watch me, walking on a leash and place. She has learned puppy manners, is crate trained and well on her way to being house trained. Here is a little more information about Sajes personality from the trainer! She has so much personality and carries it with her everywhere. She likes to meet new people given she initiates the interaction and absolutely adores dogs of all ages and sizes. She can be vocal at times, in the yard or alert when people enter her environment but is easily redirected into work. She is willing and excited to learn new behaviours and has incredible food drive. I feel this sets us apart as we are truly going the extra mile to make sure our dogs are clear of every possible disease that we are able to test for. A deeper look into the genetic testing: OFA — Hips and Elbows: Hip and elbow dysplasia are common diseases in many dog breeds, and all breeding dogs should be tested for this before they are entered into a breeding program. Hip X-rays are taken to ensure the hips are well seated within the hip socket and that the hip joints are not loose or arthritic and are well formed. OFA rates hips as excellent, good, fair, borderline, mild, moderate, and severe. Elbow dysplasia can involve many abnormalities within the elbow joint. The two most common forms of elbow dysplasia are osteochondritis dissecans OCD , which is the separation of a piece of cartilage off the joint, and fragmented or ununited medial coronoid process FCP or FMCP , which is caused by a developmental defect of the coronoid processes, two small bony protrusions on the end of the ulna within the elbow joint. In this condition, one of the coronoid processes develops a fissure or crack and separates from the rest of the bone. OFA — Cardiac: The heart is a huge muscle that pumps blood throughout the body. If it is not working properly, it can cause many problems throughout the body, including death. All breeding dogs are cleared by a board certified veterinarian for any heart murmurs. OFA — Patellas: The patella is the kneecap, which is part of the stifle joint knee. If this joint luxates, it can pop out and dislocate. This causes pain and may require surgery if severe enough in some dogs. Patellas should be tight and not able to move off the stifle joint. Hair loss can occur and skin can become scaly, have a musty odor, or develop lesions, and a secondary skin infection can occur. Poodles are most commonly affected with this disorder. There is no DNA test. A biopsy of the skin is taken to make sure all breeding dogs are clear of the disease. See a list of all the diseases the dogs are cleared for on this form. To date, the major mutation associated with this disease has been detected in breeds, with a second mutation, SOD1-B, limited to the Bernese Mountain Dog. The test for this second mutation is DM-exon1. The disease is an adult-onset condition that has ALS-like symptoms: progressive limb weakness and muscle loss, tremors, difficulty rising, and stumbling. Affected animals develop spinal and hind end problems later in life. It is inherited as a recessive disease based on these mutations, but there is also ongoing work to determine other factors that may play a role in severity and age of onset. PRA is a general term encompassing many diseases which all progress over time and eventually lead to blindness. The first sign of this disease is typically night blindness. There is no pain associated with PRA and dogs seem to adjust very well to their blindness. There are many types of PRA that affect different breeds. PRA rcd4 is seen in standard poodles. It is characterized by low platelet values and the presence of some larger than normal platelets in circulation. Unlike acquired macrothrombocytopenia thrombocytopenias secondary to infectious agents, medications, immune-mediated causes , this form does not respond to treatment. A mutation in the beta-1 tubulin gene has been identified as the cause in a number of breeds. Affected pups exhibit extreme weakness, and those that survive the first week generally develop progressively worse ataxia, or inability to move properly. This is often accompanied by severe seizures. None have survived to 7 weeks of age. EIC is most well known from the Labrador Retriever but has now been identified in a number of other breeds. The test VetGen offers is based on the findings at the University of Minnesota that identified the causative mutation. The group of European researchers identified a mutation in a collagen gene responsible for a very mild form of dwarfism. While originally described in Europe, we have detected this in the U. This is a recessively inherited condition. Labradors affected 2 copies with this mutation will have a shoulder height that is on average only about 5 centimeters lower than the breed standard accepts. No other joint or ocular problems seem to be associated with this condition. It is found primarily in working lines. Failure by the kidneys to reabsorb amino acids results in the formation of cystine crystals and sometimes stones in the urine, which can lead to blockage of the urethra. While the disease is not genetically sex-linked, it is diagnosed in male dogs more frequently than females due to anatomical differences. We offer a test based on the research done at the University of Pennsylvania which identified mutations responsible for cystinuria in several breeds. Doodles require a moderate amount of exercise. Most will do well with three half- hour walks per day. They are very versatile and social dogs. You can take them almost anywhere and they acclimatize well to new situations. This is why their popularity is growing. They are the perfect overall family dog with moderate exercise requirements. If you would like a dog for breeding, I make exceptions in certain situations. All dogs are sold with non-breeding agreements, unless arrangements are made beforehand. If anyone who has signed a non-breeding agreement subsequently breeds the dog, there are serious consequences. Back to top What is your health guarantee? SwissRidge guarantees all dogs for two years against hip dysplasia or any hereditary disease. If your dog develops a hereditary disease that makes them unsuitable as a pet or in need of extended veterinary care, please contact me immediately. I am extremely concerned about the health and welfare of each and every pup, and need to be informed so that I can make decisions about future breeding. I will require a note from a board certified veterinarian. I will either replace the dog or refund half the purchase price of the pup to cover any extended veterinary care. This is your decision. We also give clients the option to purchase a four- or six-year health guarantee with their puppy at the time of purchase. Please note that puppies may pick up common parasites, such as giardia, coccidia, roundworm, etc. I do everything in my power to prevent and eliminate these parasites by putting dogs and pups on a strict deworming program. However, mother dogs tend to be more vulnerable to parasites when they have puppies, and may pass parasites along to the pups. Depending on the life cycle of the particular parasite, it is possible that a few pups will go home with one. You must have your puppy checked by a vet within 72 hours of taking them home. Please make sure the vet checks for parasites. Are Doodles registered with any associations? Doodles are mixed breed dogs and therefore cannot be registered with the American or Canadian kennel clubs. Back to top What is your long-term goal for your breeding program? I intend to continue to produce healthy, gorgeous, great-tempered Goldendoodles, Bernedoodles, and Golden Mountain Doodles, in all sizes, as long as they are beloved by dog owners. At the same time, I have developed a unique SwissRidge Doodle that is currently representing my kennel by combining my favorite breeds in a perfect, medium-sized, multi-colored, non-shedding package. It goes without saying that the SwissRidge Doodle has an excellent pedigree. I had my first litter of SwissRidge Doodles in and have had several litters since. I used dogs from my own thoroughly tested, long-lived lines to produce this special hybrid. I expect this line to continue to evolve. I consider myself a breeder-inventor and, as such, am never fully satisfied. Back to top Why are you adding Australian Labradoodle lines to your breeding program? Health testing is a priority for me. I like to make sure all my lines are health-tested at least generations back — and most go back much further. Despite great effort, I have had a hard time being able to accomplish this with Poodles. In particular, it is very difficult to find breeders who do all the required health testing on Miniature Poodles. It is also difficult to find Miniature Poodles with the calm, docile temperament I need for my program. In view of these challenges, I decided to explore a different approach to creating Doodles. In addition, reputable breeders can produce docile dogs with the fleece coat I need for my lines. The pups have blocky builds, with great proportions and square heads. The temperaments are amazing, calm, playful, loving, easygoing family dogs. They also have beautiful, soft, wavy, non-shedding coats. Subsequently, owners have given nothing but rave reviews. The pups are sweet and easy to train. To see what owners are saying about them, look at the Australian Bernedoodle and Australian Goldendoodle testimonial sections of this website. Back to top Why do I need to get on a wait list? I wish I could meet the demand for Doodles more quickly, I really do. As I explained in my book, however, it takes time to create a great breeding program. There are no short-cuts. I must track down breeding dogs with potential from reputable breeders, wait like everyone else for pups to be born, raise them, test them for health and temperament, and only then can I breed them. Dogs come into heat only twice a year. Bernese more so than other breeds are known for unpredictable heats and for failing to conceive when expected. Even when they do, their litters may be smaller than hoped, and the sad truth is that they are not the best moms. Despite diligent interventions bottle-feeding is more the rule than the exception , not all pups thrive. Even if the litter produces a pup with the right specs, but it has the wrong temperament for your circumstances, I will encourage you to wait. The few months to a year you might have to wait for that perfect dog is worth it. But please do keep in mind that a pup with the ideal temperament for you may come earlier if you are open-minded about gender, coat type and color. Eventually, nature will produce a pup to your exact specifications. If you can be flexible, however, chances are good that your number will come up faster. The wait is worth it. I realize more and more people are wanting one of these amazing dogs, but I also recognize that there is a limit to the number of puppies that can receive this screening process. SwissRidge cannot just increase puppy production without sacrificing the quality of care and the unique matchmaking process. I hope that everyone gets a dog, but I also hope that Sherry will never expand beyond her capacity of providing the individualized adoption process that has been so successful. You will have a wonderful doodle! All the time and work that goes into producing a quality pup will pay off when a client tells me their long-awaited pup exceeds their expectations. While the wait may be frustrating, it does allow people to think about their decision very carefully. Getting a puppy is a major life change, and not something to be done on impulse. During the wait for your SwissRidge Doodle, you can do some reading, find a vet and a trainer, get all the necessary supplies, and figure out exactly how you will handle your pup day to day. I will say that people appear to be far better prepared now for their pups than they used to be. So the wait has had an unintended upside! Many breeders allow clients to choose their puppy from a litter, often in the order of deposits made. I used this approach myself when I started out, but I found that people tended to choose pups with their hearts, rather than their heads. This is not the best way to select a companion that will be with you for well over a decade. No matter how much I tried to steer people towards the pup I thought would best suit their circumstances, they usually chose the puppy they found the cutest. While this temperament suits some people, for many, a more low-key puppy is a far better fit. I knew there was a better way to match people and puppies, so I devised a system that has allowed me to improve the success rate of puppy placements. I take this process very seriously, because I know that the wrong puppy can bring stress to a family. I consider that trust an honor and I do my very best to live up to it. Happily, my approach has worked amazingly well. And several of those involved allergies or changes in family circumstances. We handle pups from day one to get them used to human touch and to enhance bonding. Because my kennel is large and I often have multiple litters at the same time, I have staff who help with this important aspect of puppy care. I make sure to consult with everyone to gather perspectives, as we may see the pups at different times in the day. Like most breeders, I have an intuitive understanding of puppy temperament from observing so many litters over the years. From the age of weeks, in particular, I look at where they rank in their litter, and how they interact with their mother, their littermates, and their caregivers. Do they sit back as you come in, or are they the first to come up, jumping at your hand? Are they starting the fights, stopping the fights, or just walking away? The answers to these questions tell me a great deal about their personalities. A puppy that is relentlessly picked on by its littermates, for example, is likely to have a more submissive nature as an adult and be the omega of the pack, regardless of all the socialization and training it might receive. But that personality will be perfect for one of my clients, perhaps a retired person with a quieter lifestyle. The boldest pup in the litter, on the other hand, will be perfect for an athletic young couple that is constantly on the go. Most of the puppies — like most of my clients — rank somewhere in between. While I understood much of this intuitively, I wanted a way to formalize and quantify it. Jack and Wendy Volhard are internationally recognized experts in dog training, health, and nutrition. Although I have adapted the test slightly to suit my needs, like the Volhards, I assess the following in each puppy: attraction to people; comfort with restraint; startle response; acceptance of social dominance by a person; acceptance of dominance while in a position of no control; willingness to do something for you; and degree of sensitivity to touch, sound, and sight. Each element is scored out of 6, with 1 being the boldest and 6 being the most timid. A pup that scores mostly in the range will be quite dominant and best suited to experienced dog owners who know how to lead. A pup that scores mostly in the range will be quite independent and shy, and will suit a quiet, structured home. I average the results across all elements of the test to get an overall ranking for each puppy. Since I began using the test, all of my pups have fallen within the range of about 2. The majority fall between 3. In fact, I work very hard to find the right breeding stock to produce exactly those middle-of-the-road puppies. Subtle variations in the scores can make all the difference in matching dogs to owners. A puppy that ranked 3 is likely to be significantly more active and dominant as an adult than the one that ranked 4. Training actually plays a critical role in helping a dog achieve its full potential and become your perfect dog. Obedience training will improve your bond, and will help the puppy integrate into your lifestyle. Even with a well-matched puppy, it takes work to raise a good dog. Back to top How do you decide which puppy best suits my circumstances? People generally provide a very detailed description of their lifestyle, as well as their preferences in terms of color, coat type, size, and gender. I look at their family composition, experience with dogs, day-to-day schedule, and activity level. I also need to take into account any allergies to determine the best coat type. Then I find the optimal pairing of the available puppies with the prospective owners. When I am torn between two potential pups, I will often describe both and allow my client to make the final decision. Even a slight nuance in personality can make a difference in fit, so I do my very best to consult and include the client. I stand behind my dogs and my decision-making, and if, for any reason, someone needs to give up their dog, it always has a home with me. I have successfully re-homed the very few dogs that have been returned. Back to top How do I go about adopting a puppy? The information you supply will help me decide which puppy would suit your needs. If you decline a pup when it becomes available, you may lose your deposit unless you roll your deposit towards a future litter. You will also lose your deposit if you cancel at the last minute and I have already booked the flight. Back to top Why are deposits non-refundable? I base the number of breedings each year on the deposits we have, so that supply never exceeds demand. I want to be certain that all my puppies have good homes. Making deposits non-refundable also encourages people to think long and hard about whether getting a puppy is the right choice for them before taking the step and getting on the waiting list. I run a very structured breeding program — and it works. I have never not placed a puppy in a good home. Further, you may defer adopting a puppy until your life circumstances are just right — even if that takes years. As an example, if you reserve a puppy in , but decide to wait three years to adopt, your deposit will still apply in .However, if my prices have risen in the meantime, your deposit will be deducted from the higher price. The price quote you are given at the time of deposit applies for only one year. Back to top Can I visit the kennel and see my puppy and its parents? I only allow visitors to my kennel on the day people pick up their puppies. My first priority is protecting the health and safety of my dogs, and I cannot risk introducing disease. Many breeders have been devastated by Parvo that was unwittingly carried in by visitors. I understand that people want firsthand knowledge about the parents and kennel before they purchase a puppy. That is why I include so many references on my website and I encourage prospective owners to contact them. In addition, there are 5, members on the SwissRidge Kennels group on Facebook, where you can engage with owners directly. Many owners have visited the kennel and met me and the parents of their pups. Please join the group and ask questions about anything on your mind. Back to top Do you ship and is it safe? Yes, we ship our puppies all over the world. Our pups are world travelers. If you live in Canada or the US we will have no issues getting your pup to you. We work with a really great shipping company that will help make the transition from our kennel to your home seamless! Prices vary so please contact us for prices. Shipping is safe, and, in my opinion, much safer than traveling a long distance in a car. I have been shipping puppies for almost two decades and all of my puppies have arrived safe and secure at their new homes. What are your prices? Do you have a contract? You can find a copy of my contract here. Back to top Do you recommend pet insurance? Yes, I think pet insurance is very important. Even though we do everything in our power to make sure you are getting a healthy puppy, accidents can happen. With every puppy I sell, I provide a trupanion form for a day free trial of pet insurance. To sign up your puppy for this trial, please visit the Trupanion website. Back to top Why are your prices higher than those of some other breeders? The price of my dogs reflects my credentials, knowledge, skills, investment, and excellent track record as a breeder. I am fully confident in the quality of my dogs and my ability to provide excellent service to my clients. While I constantly strive to improve, clients are so satisfied with their SwissRidge experience that they are increasingly coming back for a second dog, or even a third. I source dogs from all over North America and Europe, and have visited hundreds of kennels in person. Few breeders go to such lengths to find their stock, but this approach has allowed me to gather some of the finest dogs from varied, quality lines. I raise my breeding dogs to maturity and then invest more in testing for genetic diseases. I work very hard to breed the best dogs to produce healthy, happy pups, and then I individually match them to your unique circumstances. Creating the Bernedoodle breed and building a solid program over the past decade has been very rewarding, but also complicated, labor-intensive, and costly. I know what to look for in breeding dogs, how to match the right dogs, and what my matches will produce. On top of all that, I operate a large, busy kennel. My dogs live in immaculate conditions, get plenty of exercise and individualized attention, and are fed very high-quality food. As a veterinary technologist, I know how to provide the best care for my dogs. The key to providing this level of care is great staff, and plenty of them. They work very hard to keep adults and pups happy and healthy, and provide the socialization and playtime the puppies require to develop into well-rounded pets. Staff are on duty from 7 a. I even employ a full-time groomer to make sure my dogs always look their best! Beyond this, I also make sure we offer high-quality customer service to all SwissRidge clients. With my partner being an expert dog trainer, I find we can address nearly every issue that comes our way. In short, I believe my prices are appropriate. When buying a puppy from SwissRidge, you are choosing to go with the breeder with the deepest knowledge — a breeder with premium breeding dogs, and one who stands behind her dogs and her clients for life. Investing upfront in this important member of your family will likely avoid costs down the road. A well-bred, carefully raised puppy will be a healthy member of your family. There are few surprises with a SwissRidge pup. Ask about the temperament of the parents. And speak to as many references as possible. Several factors come into play when determining the price you may have to pay for a Bernedoodle. A new puppy requires a lot of gear. What about a small mountain of puppy chew toys? This 12 pack is perfect for active little mouths, has an awesome variety of toys, and is a terrific bargain — it even comes with an IQ treat ball! Here are a few things to consider when researching your Bernedoodle. Color and Size Coat color and size can have a big impact on the cost. Typically Bernedoodles with a tri-color coat and mini Bernadoodles are the most expensive. Generation Type The cost of the Bernedoodle can be affected by the generation or the make-up of the parents used in the specific liter. An F1 first generation Bernedoodle is one where one parent is the Poodle and the other parent is the Bernese Mountain Dog. An F2 is where two F1 dogs are bred together. Coat If the buyer requests a certain coat type, this can cost more money. Generally, expect to pay more for curly-coated dogs. Different coat types will require a slightly different approach to grooming see what I use on my Doodle dog in this article and will display differing shedding tendencies. However, I found this well-recommended book on Amazon that is actually written by someone who is intimately familiar with these dogs. New Breed The fact that Bernedoodles are a fairly new breed has added to the cost. Almost anytime something new comes out on the market, it comes with a higher price tag. This is bound to change with time, but for now, the lack of breeders is one reason these dogs are on the pricey side. When trying to produce Bernedoodles, breeders want to make sure that both parents are healthy. Bernese Mountain Dogs are prone to several health issues , and their life span is only 6 to 9 years. Therefore, it may be difficult to find many healthy Bernese Mountain Dogs, which can drive up the price. Reputable Breeders Breeders who have been in the business longer and raise only high-quality Bernedoodles tend to charge higher prices than someone new to the business. Reputable breeders go to great lengths researching their breeding stock, traveling to see them, and even import them from other countries. High-quality breeding stock can easily fetch 5-figure dollar amounts. Health Screenings Breeders invest a great deal of time and money finding and testing their breeding stock to ensure they are free from genetic disorder and disease. Maintenance Costs Female Bernese Mountain Dogs do not have a high success rate with pregnancy and often require extra care to breed and care for the puppies. They often charge higher prices because of the additional maintenance costs. Geographic Location Bernedoodles generally go for higher prices in larger cities. Therefore, it might be a little more difficult finding quality Bernedoodle breeders and you may need to be open to traveling a bit to get one. Check Their Website Not everybody has a website today, but most businesses do. Are they informative? Do they get back to you right away? What kind of support do they offer after the puppy goes home with you? Check Reviews The internet can be a wealth of good information for people looking for reviews. All you have to do is some research. Visit Their Pups How the puppies and the parents behave is often an indication of how the breeder takes care of the dogs. Bernedoodles can be stubborn dogs that require training and socialization. Are They Responsible Breeders? Responsible breeders truly love that particular breed of dog. They will want to get to know a little about the people buying their pups. If possible, always check out the place where the puppies are born and being raised. The place should be clean, and the breeder should be only breeding Bernadoodle dogs and not several other breeds, which can be an indication of a puppy mill. Knowledge Bernedoodles are a popular dog breed but still relatively new, and you may have many questions about the breed. A quality Bernedoodle breeder is not going to know everything but should be able to answer most, if not all, of your questions. Do you have to give up on your dream? Not necessarily. Check Dog Registries — Check with registries where the Bernedoodle dogs might be registered. Get References — If the breeder is a reputable and quality breeder, he will have no problems providing you with at least two references. This is where Facebook can come in handy too! Visit in person — If possible, avoid telephone conversations over the phone. Ask to meet in person at the place where the dogs are kept. Quality breeders will not only be happy to answer your questions but will expect you to want all the information you can get. Ask to see the parents — Always ask to see the parents of your pup in person. The way the parents behave says a lot about how the puppies will turn out as adults. Develop a relationship — Get to know the breeder as much as possible and develop a good relationship with them so you can always feel free to contact them with any concerns or questions you may have now or in the future. Many times, dedicated breeders are willing to lower their price if they know the dog is going to a loving home and will be well taken care of. Related Questions: What coat colors and types do Bernedoodles come in? Bernedoodles come in one of three coat types: straight, wavy, or curly. Bernedoodles come in a variety of colors , and most of them have a base or background color. The base coat may be cream, chocolate, or red, but black is the most common base coat. There are sable colored, tri-colored, and solid-colored, but the most common is the tri-color Bernedoodle. This much-talked-about term has been used more frequently since the practice of breeding and creating hybrid or designer dogs has become so popular. Hybrid vigor is used on various types of breeding, not just dogs. Among dog breeders, the term hybrid vigor is one some believe as fact and others believe as a myth. Summarizing Bernedoodle Cost… With so many dogs available today in shelters, rescues and reputable breeders, you would think that it would be easy to get a good dog for a good price. Finding a good breeder is the most important step in finding the ideal Bernedoodle at the right price. Related Posts:.

There are several reasons why this condition may occur, including neurological issues, developmental problems, or injury. Treatment options may include physical therapy, medication, or surgery depending on the underlying cause of the condition. With proper care and treatment, many puppies with knuckling over can go on to live happy and healthy lives. Weakness in the legs can cause by a variety of factors, including genetics, poor nutrition, and lack of exercise. If left untreated, this condition can lead to serious mobility issues and even permanent damage to the joints. This is usually not a serious problem, but there are some cases that show that it is more severe. Weakness of the extensor and flexor muscles may lead to this condition. Puppies are still growing and developing, and their bones, muscles, and joints may not be fully matured yet. This can lead to issues with coordination and balance, especially if they are walking on slippery or uneven surfaces. Providing your puppy with a stable and secure environment, such as carpeted floors or non-slip mats, can help prevent knuckling over and other injuries. This condition is common in young puppies and can cause them to walk on their wrists instead of their paws. It occurs when the tendons in the front legs grow faster than the bones, causing the legs to bend unnaturally. While this condition may be concerning, it is usually not painful and can often correct with proper treatment. This is a condition that can potentially result in an injury to the joints of the wrists. Larger breeds most commonly exhibit this. This occurs when the disks in the spine become compressed, causing pain and weakness in the limbs. If left untreated, it can lead to paralysis or even death. It is important to seek veterinary care immediately if you suspect your puppy may have this condition. Treatment may include medication, physical therapy, or surgery depending on the severity of the disease. This is a painful condition that can occur in older dogs suffering from arthritis or other diseases. When there is a defect in the intervertebral disk, it causes pain and possible swelling of the joints as well. Injured paws may be one possible cause of this. Puppies are naturally curious and may accidentally injure their paws while exploring their environment. This can lead to pain and instability, causing them to knuckle over in an attempt to alleviate the discomfort. To prevent further injury, it is important to take your puppy to the vet for a thorough examination and proper treatment. This occurs when the blood flow to the spinal cord is interrupted, leading to a loss of function in the affected area. This is a condition in which the spinal cord gets damaged. This can occur in cases where there are some diseases that attack the spine. From finding the right size crate to dealing with joint issues, caring for a large breed dog requires some practical solutions. Additionally, providing your dog with a comfortable and supportive bed can help alleviate joint pain and improve their overall comfort. If your large breed dog is knuckling, there are some effective practical solutions. The knuckling might be due to any number of conditions, but it can also result from a behavioural issue. You should see improvement after a day or two of increased activity. Regular exercise is a crucial component of keeping your large breed dog healthy and happy. These dogs require daily physical activity to maintain their muscle tone, cardiovascular health, and mental well-being. Depending on the breed and age of your dog, exercise needs may vary. For example, a young Great Dane may need a long walk or run each day to burn off excess energy, while an older Mastiff may prefer shorter walks or gentle playtime in the yard. Diet Adjustment Get your young large-breed pup on high-quality food, and think about adding nutritional supplements like glucosamine if you see knuckling in them. When it comes to caring for large-breed dogs, diet adjustment is an important consideration. Larger dogs have different nutritional needs than smaller breeds, and their diet should reflect this. High-quality dog food specifically formulated for large breeds can help ensure that your furry friend gets the nutrition they need to stay healthy and strong. Additionally, it may be helpful to adjust feeding times and portions to prevent overfeeding, which can lead to weight gain and other health issues. Use Joint Supplements If you have a large breed dog, you know that joint issues can be a common problem. Fortunately, practical solutions are available to help manage and prevent these issues. One such solution is the use of joint supplements. These supplements contain ingredients such as glucosamine and chondroitin, which can help to reduce inflammation and promote healthy joints. Additionally, omega-3 fatty acids can also be beneficial for reducing joint pain and stiffness. It is important to talk to your veterinarian before starting any new supplement regimen for your dog. Wrapping In extreme cases, you might need to wrap the joint to prevent further injury and offer relief. Wrapping for knuckling is done in case of a severely injured joint or when there is pain from the joint and it is difficult for your dog to walk or run. Wrapping can be a practical solution for large breed dogs who need extra support or protection. Wraps can help to stabilize joints, prevent injuries, and aid in the healing of existing injuries. They can also provide additional warmth and comfort for dogs with arthritis or other joint issues. When choosing a wrap, it is important to consider the specific needs of your dog and to consult with a veterinarian if you are unsure about which type of wrap to use. This can be a serious medical condition. Prolonged knuckling can cause damage to the tendons due to stress on the muscles and joints. Most commonly, a dog will begin to wobble when its hips begin to degenerate. Young three-month-old puppies usually experience Cervical Vertebral Instability. Is it a Big Concern? Growers also assume that so big a protein causes problems with development in a diet, and this is not the case, and evidence shows that that is not so. High-protein diets may be also high-fat diets, meaning that the owners find it hard to control adequate feeding rates, keeping puppies in mind may continue to consume even more than they need. However, the real concern with growth problems is the correlation between intake vs calorie production and mac bio-availability. The true problem with the growth issues is the relation between the absorption of the macro and the micro-minerals in food compared with the intake of calories. The final effects are extreme, and this hideous deformation may be lifelong if not taken into account in the early stages. They are both growing at different speeds. This affects the carpal region as well as the shoulder area. A more common term, used in both hyperextension and hyperflexion deformation, is Carpal Laxity Syndrome. It is not understood, but it may be associated with poor development, muscle tone or weakness between the flexor and the muscle extender. Inappropriate exercise, weak footing and deficient diet e. Physique and physical therapy are typically sufficient to maintain a healthy diet that is commercially available without further care. Healthy foods, whether a puppy kibble or a balanced commercially available raw food appropriate for puppies are very important for these puppies. While the disease is usually self-limiting, the afflicted puppies can only be on the top, that is, slick surfaces such as floorboards etc. It is neither necessary nor physical to take the affected puppy for a stroll. You can preserve surfaces such as tapestries, rubber pads, and lawns for puppies. Two experiments look at both choices and both have been good. No correct or wrong response is possible here. Many veterinarians order the dogs to stay unfurled but confined to a protected environment not a cassette or pen with a suitable floor in the expectation that the condition can correct within 2 to 4 weeks. Although other vets would prefer to break up easily for some positions from days, it is not acceptable for the long-term use of splints unless it is completely required to result in muscle atrophy. Often splints can be difficult to manage and certain dogs can object to and more at the bandages to maintain them. After the splints come off, the puppy will knock again. Dogs without slits require deformation sessions two to three times daily for dogs with secondary carpal contractures incapacity to enlarge the carpal joint. This means the dog feels relaxed in his world without fearing attacks. A dog is a good dog on his side. One of the sleepiest positions is where dogs are laid down on their stomachs with legs spread out from the front and back. The most common and defensive sleeping position for dogs. It includes pulling your hands under yourself, your head and your tail around your chest. So, It is not a sleeping sleep and much of the body is tense enough that they are not vulnerable to it. It can also mean cold when you want to maintain the full amount of body heat. Around them, pop a towel. This marks the ultimate warmth and relaxation. Perhaps you gave them a rub before. Just like above, particularly for larger dogs with longer limbs. This is super comfortable and a perfect way to cool down and stretch your extremities. If a dog desires to feel connected to another dog or person. Then they develop a true relationship with themselves, sleeping behind or touching them. This indicates a strong degree of trust and confidence since they display not only love but also reciprocal security. But, if the knuckling is mild and the family understands what to look for. And how to handle the puppy will consider appropriate for puppies. To start their transition with their new families. The fantastic news is that most puppies recover entirely, particularly if the family follows the instructions in this newsletter. The dog may have to perform a small operation to rectify contractures in extremely few severe situations. New families should ensure that they do not feed their puppies. And that their puppy is developing in a magical state. You need to choose a high-quality diet and avoid dried and tinned supermarkets of poor quality. This can cause by a variety of factors, including neurological conditions, injuries, or simply weak muscles. Some common triggers that may cause front leg knuckling in puppies include growth spurts, overexertion during playtime, or wearing ill-fitting collars or harnesses. It is important to identify the underlying cause of front leg knuckling over and seek proper treatment from a veterinarian. Paw knuckling may physically harm the top or sides of the foot since the dog may end up dragging it. Overall, dogs tend to knuckle far less than they limp, but it is still necessary to be aware of this. Knuckling can be the result of many different dog health problems. Remember, you can easily handle the issue. FAQ: 1. Why does Knuckling Occur in Dogs? Ans: The most common reasons behind knuckling are inappropriate nutrition, poor footing, inadequate exercise, extensor and flexor muscle weakness, intervertebral disk disease, and injured or sore paws. Ans: Eventually, degenerative myelopathy causes most puppies to lose control of their legs, bladder, or intestines and necessitates euthanasia. A dog with degenerative myelopathy has an average lifespan of one to two years after diagnosis. What Is Knuckling In Dogs? Ans: Walking on the tops of its feet rather than its paws is popular as knuckling by dogs. Puppies may knuckle on one or both of their legs and may or may not do so with each step. Ans: Nutritional deficiency and spending too much time on slippery or hard floors mainly cause knuckling in boxer puppies. Ans: The swelling of feet, pasterns and joints are common features of knuckling commonly seen in Great Danes. Many other large breeds also commonly suffer from this disease. Boxer Dog Degenerative Myelopathy Overview Canine degenerative myelopathy is a progressive disease of the spinal cord. In this section, we'll take a closer look at degenerative myelopathy, and then meet an exceptional Boxer diagnosed with this disease. Unfortunately, this disease is also incurable. There are medications to help a dog be more comfortable, and to treat secondary conditions; however, as of now there is no treatment to reverse or stop this. The 'myelo' in the name refers to myelin, a part of the spinal cord in which certain neurons are encased in a sheath. It is thought that a dog's immune system attacks this part of the spinal cord, resulting in damaged and then broken communication between nerves in the lower body and the brain. Onset: Age of onset is typically between 7 and 14 years old. Symptoms: This often begins with muscle weakness and lack of coordination of the hind legs. The dog may stumble or have an awkward gait. It's common for dogs to 'knuckle over' or drag their rear paws. As this progresses, the rear legs begin to buckle until the point of paralysis and complete loss of use. The pelvic area is also affected, causing incontinence. Unfortunately, the next phase affects the front legs. This generally occurs 6 to 12 months after the hind legs are affected. Eventually, respiratory muscles may be affected as well. It should be noted that the actual disease is considered pain-free. Perhaps the one saving grace. The full list of symptoms, in order, is as follows: Dragging of rear paws Development of sores on top of rear paws Abnormal wear of the rear toenails Weakness in the hind legs Difficulty walking, rising, and jumping Ataxia problems balancing, uncontrolled movements Muscle atrophy Partial and then complete paralysis of the hind legs Followed by partial and then complete paralysis of the front legs This can progress to trouble chewing and swallowing, and difficulty breathing Diagnosis: DM is normally diagnosed by ruling out other conditions with similar symptoms, and via visual cues based on exact mobility issues. Dogs with one abnormal gene are thought to be carriers can pass this on, but do not develop the disease and those with two abnormal genes are at high risk. This can confirm the diagnosis. Treatment: There is no cure, treatment, or medication to directly treat DM. However, dogs may be prescribed certain supplements that can aid in a variety of ways including joint health. Anti-inflammations may be given, as well as medication to help control incontinence issues. If a dog's body is compensating for the loss of mobility, this can cause radiating discomfort, and there may be sores due to inability to move positioning when resting or sleeping. Therefore, if needed, pain medication can be given as well. Next, we'll meet a pretty incredible Boxer dog that has been diagnosed with DM, and thanks to his loving family, is doing remarkably well. Meet Roscoe Noble Brown.The ABI team are huge fans, and we're sure that you are too.But enough gushing from us, the focus is on Nicole and Billy's inspirational Boxer and his brave journey with DM. Roscoe is actually the 2nd Boxer dog that Nicole and Billy had that unfortunately was diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy. Their first Boxer, Simon, who is now passed, and Roscoe were both diagnosed at the age of .We'd like to know if you've had Roscoe since he was a puppy? Also, were there any other pets in the house at the time? How were those first few months? And can you give us a brief overview of his personality as a pup? A: Roscoe has been 'our' only pet. The first fond moment I cherish is when we finally decided it was time to give another Boxer a loving home Billy had another Boxer - named Simon - when we first met. Roscoe - age 12 weeks - walked through the door of the kennel's waiting room and straight towards Billy, climbing up on his knees to give him big kisses. It was a very sweet bonding moment as if Roscoe was saying, "Please take me home with you! Coming home with us on his first day was a bit of an adventure for us all. Roscoe's tummy wasn't up for a brisk ride in a little German sports car, so a stop on the highway was needed to get his paws back underneath him. After this, his nervousness subsided, and when we introduced him to the garden, he situated himself on a stone bench and fell blissfully asleep the first of many such naps. Roscoe, looking around his home for the first time The months that followed were, needless to say, very eventful! There was not a boring moment, to say the least. It was a great experience raising a Boxer puppy.He was a very curious, lively, and energetic little fellow. At times it felt like he was drawn more to people then to other dogs. With his outgoing, playful personality he was a pure joy to have around, and he always loved a rough dog play next to being very submissive. Amazingly, he hasn't lost much of his playfulness through the years at all! He loved getting trained, always very eager to please us. He learned hand signals quickly so if running way ahead of us, he would know a waving hand means to 'come', etc. Roscoe, as a puppy, was either sleeping deeply or up and running.Can you please give us a summary of his diagnosis, and the progression of the disease? A: Simon, who came from a different breeder and was Roscoe's predecessor, was a gentle soul also diagnosed at the age of .Simon, Nicole and Billy's previous Boxer dog, at age .RIP We noticed the nails of his back paws were wearing off quickly, and after some months he started to knuckle his paw and dragged one of his back legs, which led to us getting him dog boots to protect his paws. Eventually he dragged both paws and began to experience muscle atrophy, which is a part of the disease, and lost his strength and slowly his balance when walking. He received some acupuncture treatment which showed few positive signs. A tumor was found and removed by emergency surgery - he recovered quickly, yet the DM symptoms kept progressing to where he wasn't able to walk without his back toppling and finally he couldn't really get up at all. One night he had a seizure while sleeping. After consulting with our vet, we agreed it was time to let Simon go. Q: What were the early warning signs of DM with Roscoe? A: The early signs came on very subtly. We noticed he would not quite sit down the right way, preferring to lean on one side of his body. His left hind leg stuck out slightly when sitting, and the nails on his left paw would wear down quicker than usual.When he stood still he sometimes would knuckle his paw, which is a symptom of DM. Having had Simon affected by DM, we were very aware of these symptoms. Q: Can you please give us a recap of how this was diagnosed? A: Roscoe's primary vet Barry Browning of Sag Harbor, NY who also took care of Simon knew Roscoe from puppyhood, and knowing Roscoe's health so well, diagnosed him after running different tests. Roscoe showed the typical sign of knuckling his paws. Finally Roscoe got a DNA test; a blood sample confirmed that he carried the mutation that causes degenerative myelopathy. Q: And what was the treatment plan? A: Roscoe has always been a very active dog, so we were advised to keep his activity level up as long as possible. My husband Billy continued taking him every second day for hour-long beach runs, and in the summer Roscoe would also swim in the pool. He takes daily vitamin E, fish oil, glucosamine-chondroitin, Rimadyl, Gabapentin, and Proin. For about a year and a half, he took a low dose of Naltrexone prescribed by Dr. The hope with this medication was to 'slow down' the progression of DM, because there is no cure. Editor's note: Vitamin E is a great antioxidant help limit damage to cells in the body caused by free radicals. Fish oil omega 3 is a very beneficial supplement used for a wide range of things most common being skin and coat health but is also used for muscle soreness, muscle strength, and to help prevent blood clots. Glucosamine-chondroitin is a supplement for joint health a must for senior Boxers. Gabapentin works for nerve pain. Proin is a medication to help with incontinence; it works by tightening the bladder muscles. And Naltrexone can be a helpful medication that not all vets are knowledgeable enough to consider; it's original purpose was to counter the affects of opioids; however, it is used off-label in low doses known as LDN for pets to help build the immune system. Q: At which stage did the wheelchair come into play? How did Roscoe adjust to this? A: DM affects the dog starting from the back legs moving forward, and after Roscoe lost feeling of both hind quarters in the summer of - becoming basically immobile - I started researching dog wheelchairs. We were hesitant at first being unsure if it was a good idea: would he be able to use it.But after adjusting the wheelchair to his body with a few snacks in hand , it took him only a few minutes to realize that he could walk on his own again. First day with his wheelchair In no time Roscoe was racing through the backyard with such ease that it brought tears to my eyes seeing the dog's happiness. After that, nothing stopped him anymore from hitting the roads, 'rolling' through the fields, exploring his beloved beach.And, it's really sad to know that the prognosis for DM is typically listed as 'grave'. What prognosis did Roscoe's vet offer? A: Unfortunately we knew already from the experience with Simon who passed away in , that there is no cure for DM. We were told by the neurologist who sees many of these cases that Roscoe could reach the final stage of the disease in as little as 3 months, or up to 2 years. DM can progress rapidly or gradually, there is no telling which way it goes. The only solace is that it is a 'pain-free' disease. Q: Your experience with this and everything you guys have done to care for both Simon and Roscoe could really help other Boxer owners who are going through this same thing. What advice can you give to other owners in regard to caring for a Boxer dog with DM? A: As dire as the prognosis is, you will experience another level of bonding with your companion through the different stages of the DM. It is very important that you keep the dog moving as muscle athropy is a part of the disease which will become prominent, so the more you can keep the activity level up as long as possible - without stressing the dog - the better it is for him. To prevent injuries to his paws while dragging them during the early stage of DM, dog boots will be a big help. It will take a few pairs to find the right fit. We found a rear lifting harness very useful as support for when he started to get weaker and had trouble keeping his balance while walking. Finally, when it gets to the point where the dog gets too heavy for you to support him by the harness due to him getting weaker and weaker next to losing the feel of his legs, try out a dog wheelchair which may get your dog back to running on his own for a while to still enjoy life! Unfortunately there comes the day when the dog is totally immobile and has to get carried around the house. It's not easy and we know only too well that taking care of a dog with DM is time-consuming and emotionally draining. A comfy pillow is a necessity - be sure to switch the dog from side to side throughout the day to prevent any possible sores when he is not able to turn himself anymore. And the most important thing you can do.Roscoe gets a continuous daily dose of affection from his two devoted human companions!!! Quoting a dear friend: "Roscoe lives in the moment, he is content. The DM is moving on yet he still wants to interact with us, enjoys every visitor, barks at the 'unknown'… We shower him with the same joy and unconditional love Roscoe has given us all his life. And maybe that's the reason why we continue to get a deeper glimpse into the soul of a Boxer. ABI: Thanks so much, Nicole. Roscoe is such an amazing inspiration. His zest for life really shines through, and it's clear that he could not be better taken care of. It's heartwarming to see how he's making the most of each day, and powering through like a real hero. Your story is a great example of how love can make such a huge difference. We really appreciate all the time and work you and Billy have put into helping us get this article together, so that we and all Boxer lovers are able to get a glimpse into Roscoe's life and learn more about DM. Check out the Boxer Dog Profile page - It's a great round-up of Boxer dogs that stand out in a variety of ways. This condition is referred to as knuckling and can point to various health issues. Today, our vets in Austin explain what knuckling is in puppies and how it can be stopped. When a puppy is knuckling, it's walking on the top of its feet instead of its paws. Pooches can knuckle on a singular leg or all of them, and they may not do this with every step they take. Your puppy's front legs could be knuckling over. The same could also be happening on a back paw. The condition can have many different causes that may be minor or severe, from sore paws to nerve damage or neurological disorders. If you notice your puppy knuckling, you should contact your vet because the underlying condition may be fatal. If your puppy tucks their feet under and drags them on the ground, this can cause physical injury to any part of the foot, making it important to seek veterinary care as quickly as possible. You can tell if knuckling is an issue for your puppy if you notice an unsteadiness or uneven gait when they are walking toward you or away from you. Have your dog stand. Lift one paw up at a time and put it down with the knuckle under. If your puppy doesn't correct their paw's position and leaves their knuckle tucked under, they are likely knuckling. If your puppy is knuckling, call your vet immediately to book an appointment for an exam. Our veterinarians in Austin treat and diagnose internal medical conditions in pets. What Causes Knuckling in Puppies? While the cause of knuckling is not known, it may be related to: Sore or Injured Paws Weakness between the flexor and extensor muscle groups Improper exercise. Lack of proper exercise or exercise on unsuitable surfaces such as slippery floors and inadequate nutrition are also considered potential causes. Genetics may play some part also. Whether or not boxer puppies are prone to this affiliation is not currently known. Certain breeds appear to be more prone to the condition than others. It is certainly more prevalent in medium and large breeds, with breeds such as Dobermans and Shar Peis particularly prone. Knuckling over can occur in one leg or both legs. When looking for signs of knuckling over, keep an eye out for twisting of the toes as this is often the first symptom of the syndrome. If you notice this, see a vet immediately. Boxer Puppy Front Legs Bowed? If your boxer puppy has bowed front legs, this is a clear sign that something is not right and warrants immediate inspection by a vet. Although it can be distressing to see your boxer puppy suffer from frontal limb deformity, it is important to know that syndromes such as carpal laxity are treated relatively easily, and positive results can be seen in a matter of weeks. Although it is more common in male boxer puppies, a consultation with your vet should happen sooner rather than later, regardless of the sex of the dog. Sadly, there is a lot of misinformation out there, which may cause more harm to your four-legged friend. Although this may seem like the sensible thing to do after all, when a human has an issue related to a limb, dressings, slings, or splints are commonly used to treat the issue , this can actually make the syndrome worse as it will exacerbate weakness in the muscle and may cause secondary contractures, i. In puppies with secondary contractures, physiotherapy is recommended as this will help speed up recovery from the syndrome. Carpal Laxity Syndrome — A Complete Guide Carpal laxity syndrome, also known as carpal hypertension, is a condition that most commonly develops between the ages of two and three months of age, and is most frequently found in male puppies of medium and large breeds. The latter commonly occurs following changes in nutrition, particularly when the diet is unbalanced, of poor nutritional quality , or over-supplemented. This results in an imbalance between muscle strength in the extensor and flexor muscles, i. If left untreated, this can result in the development of secondary contractures, i. Management of carpal laxity syndrome should center around feeding a balanced diet and exercise on surfaces such as grass, i. Although some people recommend using splints, dressing, and slings to manage carpal hypertension, these forms of treatment are generally considered as being counterproductive; the aim of treatment for this syndrome is to increase muscle strength and tone rather than exacerbate muscle weakness. If a dog with carpal laxity syndrome suffers from secondary contractors, stretching three or four times daily is necessary. In some cases, surgery may be required if physiotherapy of the contracted tissues is unsuccessful. This syndrome, when present in puppies, can have a rather dramatic and certainly worrying presentation. However, in most cases, there is no need to worry as surgery is rarely needed to fix the issue s at hand. Ensuring the puppy is fed a balanced diet from commercial dog food, enjoys regular exercise on non-slippers surfaces, and has regular physiotherapy particularly in those puppies who suffer from secondary contractures is the best way to address the symptoms caused by carpal laxity. Many dogs recover in a matter of weeks. The cause is not known but may be related to unbalanced growth, poor muscle tone, or weakness between the flexor and extensor muscle groups. Improper exercise, poor footing eg, slippery surfaces , inappropriate nutrition, and genetics have also been implicated. Exercise and commercially available balanced diets without any other treatment is usually enough to achieve physical and functional recovery. Male puppies seem to more affected due to their more rapid growth. Age of presentation is usually 6 to 16 weeks; dogs may be unilaterally or bilaterally affected. While all breeds can be affected, large breeds tend to be affected more often than small breeds In rescue puppies, this condition can typically be seen where a puppy has come into care suffering from malnutrition. When malnourished puppies suddenly start getting quality nutrition, this can lead to rapid growth which can trigger the condition, it is therefore recommended that such puppies are not over-fed to put on weight. Sometimes this condition is simply unavoidable in malnourished puppies as the processes have already begun when they come into care. The first red flag is often the twisting of toes, this is the ligament laxity beginning and whilst some puppies will not advance past this stage, this is your red flag that something isn't right and that you need to have a look at diet and environment if the puppy hasn't been malnourished. Chubby aka overweight puppies are at higher risk of developing this condition, it is very important to grow puppies lean especially large-giant breed puppies. Balanced diets are very important for these puppies, whether that be a puppy kibble or a balanced commercially available raw diet suitable for puppies. It is important you see your Vet so your Vet can monitor your puppy, it is unlikely your Vet will recommend anything too different to what we are but your Vet is an important partner in your dogs recovery. Whilst the condition is generally self-limiting, affected puppies should only ever be on surfaces they can grip, this means they should not be slippery surfaces such as floorboards etc. Taking an affected puppy on a walk is not appropriate nor is physical play. Puppies who are knuckling over should be kept in warm environments as cold weather can worsen the condition. Should splints be used in more severe cases? There is no right, or wrong answer here - there are 2 studies looking at both options and both options were successful. Many Vets will ask for the dogs to be left without splints but restricted to a safe area not a crate or pen with appropriate flooring with the hope that within weeks the condition will rectify. Whereas other Vets, will want to splint for anywhere between days to get on top of the condition quickly. Long term use of splints is not appropriate unless absolutely necessary as it will lead to muscle atrophy. Splints can sometimes be tricky to keep on and some dogs may object and bite at the bandages keeping the splints in place. The puppy may also start to knuckle again after the splints come off. The families Vet can show them how to do this or a referral to an Animal Physiotherapist can be given. In this photo, stretching exercises are being performed on the left carpus by supporting the forearm with one hand and extending the carpus with the other. Carpal extension is maintained for 10 seconds and this is repeated 10 times in each physiotherapy session. Adopting puppies with the condition Ideally puppies should stay with their carers until fully recovered however. The great news is that most puppies make full recovery especially when the family are following the guidelines mentioned in this info sheet. In an exceedingly small amount of serious cases, the dog may need minor surgery to correct the contractures. New families should ensure they are not over feeding their puppy, growing their puppy in a lean state is the goal. For families who want to feed a fresh food diet, I recommend Prime Lamb or Chicken raw Patties OR Vets All Natural Complete Mix Puppy that you add fresh meat too and offer raw meaty bones around 4 times per week such as chicken necks, chicken frames, chicken wings etc. Supervise your dog when they are eating bones. Learn more about bones here. Supplements We recommend the following supplements for these puppies, starting off with the most important so if you can only do one, start there. MSM Powder Supports connective tissues such as collagen, ligaments and tendons. Ester C is much gentler on the tummy that standard Vitamin C and comes in a powder. Vitamin C - look for Ester C as it's more gentle on the tummy. Your Vet will be able to confirm the dosage, generally mg for a large breed puppy is enough, you can read more about vitamin C and dosage here. Zinc Blackmores Bio Zinc used to be our go-to. Start with a lower dose and see if that does the trick, you can increase where needed, you'll speak to your Vet about how much to give. Anitone A liquid, organic, nutritional supplement providing over 60 minerals and trace elements in a highly bioavailable, chelated form. Google for best price. Dosage as per packaging. Link to product here. Antinol Rapid An incredible powerful full spectrum omega-3 supplement that not only is used in dogs with active joint disease but also used to support the growth of puppies and acts as a preventative of joint disease. Some nice side effects include improving trainability in puppies but also improves coat and skin. Do not give calcium or vitamin D supplements unless okay-ed by your Vet. Tinned sardines in the DIY raw diet is generally enough natural vitamin D for most puppies. Wellbeing for dogs Wellbeing Essentials This is a nice supplement that compliments DIY not commercial prepackaged raw diets and can cover off a range of nutrients to ensure puppy is getting enough of everything. Post not marked as liked4 Recent Posts.

An ultra sound is inconclusive until around 30 days and a x-ray will not show anything till around 45 days when the calcium in the puppies bones solidifies. This leaves very little time to get prepared. So let's discuss some important Poodle pregnancy facts. This is Curly, who is 19 months old and 51 days pregnant. Let's first clear up some myths and look at some Poodle pregnancy facts. A female Poodle may become pregnant: Any time after her 1st heat, no matter how young she is At any age, no matter how old she is, as long as she is still entering heat.Starting at about week 2 it will become firm. By week 4 it will be noticeably swollen. Her mammary glands will become enlarged Some inverted nipples that you may not have even noticed will "pop out" She will clean herself more thoroughly than usual Nesting behavior may begin. Some dogs will gather toys and other articles from around the house, showing maternal instincts toward them. She may also drag pillows, blankets and other soft materials to a quiet corner of a room to build a 'nest'. Her appetite should increase There may be minor to moderate clear discharge. This usually begins by week 4 or 5. Litter Size The average size litter for a Toy Poodle is: 3 pups The average size litter for a Miniature Poodle is: 5 pups The average size litter for a Standard Poodle is: 6 pups Do keep in mind that these are averages. It is common for a Toy Poodle to have just 1 puppy and while it is rare, she may have up to 5. The largest Poodle litter ever recorded is.Charlie named for Charlie's Angels was in labor for 23 hours, giving birth to 10 female puppies and 6 males. And believe it or not, this was an unplanned breeding. The sire, Magnum another standard Poodle broke through 2 wooden fences to get to Charlie when she was in heat. Caring for a Pregnant Poodle Once you suspect that your Poodle may be pregnant, you will want to have this confirmed. There are several ways that the veterinarian can do this, at different stages: A blood test can test for pregnancy and will be most reliable by day .An ultrasound can pick up fetal heartbeats by day day .An x-ray should be performed to determine exactly how many fetus are growing so that you will know how many to expect. This is not done until late in the pregnancy, usually after day 45, since bones are not sufficiently calcified until this time. Moderate daily exercise should continue throughout the pregnancy while excluding any more intense activity. Walking will allow the dam to maintain muscle mass and keep her body in top shape in preparation for labor. Her appetite will increase by week 2 or 3 and by week 5 nutritional needs nearly double. While food should not be denied, the focus should be on offering a well-balanced, healthy diet. Adding an egg once per day as well as a scoop or two of cottage cheese is a good way to offer a bit more protein. Pregnant dogs should not be given any extra calcium via supplements as this can predispose a dam to the dangerous health condition of eclampsia a life-threatening drop in blood calcium levels that can happen when the dam is nursing. The home environment should be as stress free as possible and the pregnant Poodle should be allowed to retreat and rest as she pleases. You may wonder how much weight a pregnant Poodle gains. For example, a toy Poodle that was 8 lbs. A standard Poodle that was 55 lbs .While the majority of delivers are without complications, you will want to be prepared for any situation. You will need: 1. A thermometer 2. Sheets, towels or clean newspapers 3. Floss or thread 4. A whelping box - This can be a cardboard box, lined child's wading pool for standards or even a canine bed Perla beds work quite nicely 6. Heating pad 7. Having an assistant be there with you is always a good idea. How to Know it is Time All dog breeds carry the puppies on average for 63 days; however a Poodle pregnancy can last anywhere from 59 to 65 days and still be considered normal. You will know that labor is to begin in approximately 24 hours when your dog's internal body temperature drops. For this reason, at least one week before the due date, start taking your Poodle's temperature twice per day. While some digital thermometers will beep, if you are using a standard type, leave it in for 3 minutes. At this time, you should be prepared to remain with your Poodle, set her up in the whelping area and separate any males dogs in the house so that they cannot reach her. If your Poodle does not go into labor within 24 hours after her body temperature drops to below F, you will want to alert the veterinarian. Stages of Labor There are 3 main stages of canine labor. Stage 1 During the first stage of labor the cervix will dilate and contractions will begin. This element of Poodle labor can be painful and a dog may express this by: Acting restless. Whether this is your first litter of puppies or you have been breeding dogs for decades, every litter is a unique and wonderful experience. Today we will look at everything related to Poodle conception, pregnancy and birth. Table of Contents Do female Poodles have periods? Poodles — and all female dogs — do not have periods that are comparable to human cycles. During this heat cycle your Poodle will have discharge, probably be irritable and, of course — be able to get pregnant! If a dog is spayed, she will have her uterus and ovaries removed and as a result not go into heat anymore. How long do Poodles stay in heat? A regular heat is about weeks long. Your Poodle is not fertile during the entire time however. During the first days your dog is not fertile, only after 1. The heat goes along with the much-dreaded discharge. Many Poodle owners opt for doggy diapers when their Poodle is in season to keep their floors and furniture clean. How do I find a good baby daddy? Depending on your breeding goals, you will be searching for the perfect match for your Poodle. If you are planning to breed a pure-bred Poodle litter like Parti Poodles , choose a registered and health-tested Poodle as the sire. The American Kennel Club will help you get in touch with other Poodle owners. If you are planning to have a Doodle litter, the choice of dad might for example be: a Schnauzer for Schnoodle puppies a Bernese Mountain Dog for Bernedoodle pups a Golden Retriever for Goldendoodle , Mini Goldendoodle or F1b Mini Goldendoodle offspring an Old English Sheepdog for Sheepadoodle pups You should always make sure that both parents have passed breed-specific health tests so that the babies can have the best possible start into a long and healthy life! How can I tell if my Poodle is pregnant? If you hope that your Poodle to be pregnant, she has probably been in season and has been around an intact male. Whether you chose a purebred Poodle daddy or a different breed to create adorable Doodle babies, you probably cannot wait to know if the pregnancy took! If you want to know for sure, visit a vet on days from the probable day of conception. Your vet will be able to do an ultrasound on your Poodle just like on a human momma-to-be! If you do not want to take your dog to the vet, there is no way to accurately tell until about 5 weeks after conception, at which point pregnant Poodles start to visible gain weight and might show nesting behaviors. How many days are Poodles pregnant? This might vary by a couple days however. Smaller dogs tend to give birth a bit earlier than larger breeds If you are breeding Miniature or Toy Poodles, or crosses such as a Mini Goldendoodle or F1b Mini Goldendoodle , your dog may already give birth after days. He can take an x-ray to determine how many pups she is carrying. This will help make a better plan for the whelping. How many puppies will my Poodle have? The number of pups you can expect will depend on the size of the parents. As a general rule, large breeds have litters with higher numbers of pups than small breeds. Standard Poodle If the mom of your litter is a Standard Poodle, expect around 7 puppies. Fun fact: in , a Standard Poodle named Crystal made history when she gave birth to 16 puppies! Miniature Poodle For Miniature Poodles expect around 5 puppies. Toy Poodles Toy Poodles are the smallest type of Poodle and will have the smallest number of puppies in one litter. Plan for around 3 — though also singelton litters meaning a litter with only one single puppy happen regularly. Are Poodles good mothers? Most Poodles are good mother dogs. How well prepared you are You need to set the mom up for success and make puppy raising easy for her. Get her a spacious and soft whelping box. Clip the hair on her stomach so that the pups can nurse easily. Ensure that she is healthy and had prenatal veterinary care. How safe mom feels Being pregnant with, birthing and caring for a litter of puppies is a big task! Your Poodle mom needs to feel safe and cared for in order to be a great mom. If you have any other dogs, they should not be allowed to access the whelping box or disturb the female. She needs a lot of peace and quiet. Your support Prepare to spend a lot of time and effort supporting your Poodle as she is raising her pups. She will need a lot of specialized nutrition , especially as she is nursing. You are responsible for making sure nobody disturbs her — this also applies to small kids in the household! How often should I breed my female? First of all, it is a myth that every female dog needs to have at least one litter. Do not breed your Poodle just because you think this is required. Female dogs can live a long and healthy life without ever having puppies. Only if you are ready to raise a litter responsibly and with a lot of time and effort you should breed. If you decide to do this, three times should be the maximum amount of litters your female has. Every pregnancy and whelping will wear on your Poodle. While Poodles have a long lifespan , you should not breed a dog over the age of 8 or 9 years old. Even though your female could still get pregnant, this is too old to have puppies. Some owners breed their females 5 or 6 times. Do not do this! It is not fair to the momma dog and borders on puppy mill practice. It is a much better approach to have few litters, but to make them the best they can be. The Bottom Line Supporting your Poodle through pregnancy, birth and puppy raising can be a wonderful experience. Only commit to it if you are ready to spend time, money and effort though. Always make sure that the parents of any litter have passed breed-specific health test and never breed more than 3 litter off of one female! Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Country Life June 21, This picture could only be improved if the puppies were using their paws to cover ears, eyes and mouth respectively.But, well, you can't have everything. Credit: Alamy If you're after a labrador — aka 'the world's favourite dog' — you'll need to take some expert advice. It is one of the most versatile breeds, capable of working in search and rescue, as a guide dog, in medical detection, as a sniffer or assistance dog and in the theatre of war. Labrador tips from the experts Go to a specialist breeder, so that you can see the different generations of a breeding line. Make temperament, not sex, your overriding factor when choosing. As soon as your puppy wakes up, take it outside. When introducing the labrador to a lead, walk it with an older dog. A yellow Labrador puppy. Possible labrador problems to look out for Canine hip dysplasia is a genetic disease, causing the abnormal development of the hip socket, resulting in pain and lameness. Listen for a popping sound when the dog walks, and look for reluctance to use stairs, as well as sensitivity when you touch the hindquarters. Labradors can also be prone to retinal dysplasia, an inherited condition that affects labradors used for field work, and results in their developing blind spots. Generally, the dog can work around this by changing head position. Reputable breeders will be able to show certification that the dog has no eye conditions, which you should ask to see when buying a dog. Head and skull: Skull broad with defined stop; clean-cut without fleshy cheeks. Jaws of medium length, powerful not snippy. Nose wide, nostrils well developed. Eyes: Medium size, expressing intelligence; brown or hazel. Ears: Not large or heavy, hanging close to head and set rather far back. Mouth: Jaws and teeth strong with a perfect, regular and complete scissor bite. Coat: Distinctive feature, short dense without wave or feathering, giving fairly hard feel to the touch; weather-resistant undercoat. No need to scroll down: we can confirm that the Golden Retriever is indeed on the list below. Credit: Alamy Which is the more popular spaniel, the springer or the cocker? Shooting Times's David Tomlinson weighs up the pros and Close up of dog. Credit: Getty Images With a silken coat, affectionate nature and boundless enthusiasm for life, the Cavalier King Charles spaniel lives up to its Credit: Getty As the dog world prepares for Crufts , we take a look at the breed of dog which has been A sprocker spaniel Picture: Alamy Whether you own labradors, springers, cockers or a mix of all three, debate over which gundog is best has raged Related. Your breeder should be concerned with breeding healthy dogs, rather than focused primarily on selling them. Visit a potential breeder and observe his interactions with his dogs; they should be friendly and relaxed. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source Look for breeders who are registered with national organizations such as the American Kennel Club [3] X Research source or with breed-specific organizations such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. Ask the breeder why these two particular dogs were bred. If they have had other litters, ask for references from people who bought those puppies. If you want a gun dog, don't choose a breeder who primarily raises cuddly pets or award-winning show dogs. These breeders will be able to assess puppies more accurately for the qualities you're seeking. Look for quantifiable measures. For example, select breeders with litters from parents who have hunt test or field trial scores if you want a puppy who will grow into a good hunting dog. These are organizations that work to find homes for Labradors who need a good home. While these organizations often have many adult and even senior dogs who need homes, they also place puppies. Charities or non-profits may offer Labrador puppies for auction as a means of raising funds. Because these auctions are often conducted without appropriate legal oversight and because they encourage rash decisions about pet ownership, they are opposed by groups such as the National Labrador Retriever Club. I am new to this forum so should introduce myself. As you can imagine its left an uneasy quietness to the house so we are looking for her successor In our home its my wife, myself and our 8 yr old daughter and 6 yr old son. He says he breeds only for good disposition only as any good breeder should and our quick meeting with parents it looked to be accurate. The dad was in a large outdoor kennel and looked to be very friendly. She did a quick snarl when we first got near which I have to give a pass as i'm sure she's just being protective, right? After the breeder told her its OK she calmed right down. Anyways, there are 4 females that we get first pick of when we go back. Of course training and exercise play a huge role in this so that we'll have covered. Does it still hold true that when you are looking at the liter to see which ones come to you and let you hold them on their back and settle after a short period to determine good nature rather than overly squirmy? Such a big decision i just wanted to make sure we do this right. We were so spoiled with our last pup its hard to compare! Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. That sweet ball of fluff who will be your walking buddy, later snuggling up on the couch together. After all, your pup will probably be with you for a dozen years or more. So he has to be a great fit. It should never be a hasty decision. But it should also be FUN! That brings us to the question: how to choose the perfect puppy? Read on! You picture fun romps in the field, playing frisbee, and showing little Max off to all of your friends. But before getting a puppy, there are so many practical things to review in deciding whether to even get a puppy. My first dog as an adult was a shih tzu named Cuddles. My husband and I had discussed getting a dog for a while. We both worked and knew that the pup would take up a lot of time. Not to mention the expenses associated with a dog. But I saw the little gold and white week-old ball of fluff and was smitten. Luckily, I had a family member who could take her out to potty and exercise her during the day. In choosing your new pup, the following considerations are important. Are You Active or a Couch Potato? Can You Afford a Puppy? A puppy is more than the initial purchase. That can be a drop in the bucket compared with the lifetime costs of owning a dog. There are bills for: food and treats; chews; vets; crates ; beds; collars, harnesses, and leashes; training classes; dog walkers; dog daycare; pet insurance; enzymatic cleaners ; grooming—and more. These can really add up. You may decide not to get pet health insurance and not need pet walkers or doggie daycare, but expenses can really add up over the years. Do You Have Children? Children and pets can be a great match. You want to make sure that you choose the right canine. A toy breed may not be the right choice for a toddler. A tiny dog may inadvertently be injured by such a young child. We raised puppies for years before we had kids so we had a good idea of expectations for our puppy. If you have very young kids a rambunctious Lab may not be the right choice. Do You Have Other Pets? You need to take into consideration any other pets you have. If you have a senior dog, for example, a young puppy may not be a great choice. Are you gone too many hours to take care of a puppy? A friend of mine who works hour days decided not to get a puppy. The pup would have been alone too long. A puppy needs attention and potty breaks. Of course we need to work. You may be able to have someone come in and exercise, feed, and potty the pup. And give him attention during the day. As I discussed, you may need help with the new puppy. If you have reliable relatives or friends who can regularly help out, it can make getting a puppy much more realistic. Or you can hire pet sitters or walkers to help out. If you live in small quarters, a large, rambunctious breed may not be best. As young puppies, goldens can be wild, even inside. Of course, with a sufficient amount of mental stimulation and physical exercise, you can make it work. After Dalmations came out, everyone wanted one. Dalmations are high-drive, independent dogs. I was called to work with a family who got a Dalmation puppy that was wrecking their house. The minute walk the pup was getting was just a warm-up for the dog. We set up an exercise and training program for the puppy and the family was able to keep him. Do your research. The American Kennel Club lists purebred dogs and their needs and health profiles. Before choosing a certain breed, consider the following. Large or Small? You should have an idea what size dog you want. Conversely, if you want a frisbee or jogging partner, a chihuahua would be a bad choice. Why Do You Want a Dog? This may seem like a silly question. Most people want a dog for companionship. But you may have additional things in mind. You may want a jogging partner. Or a dog to do therapy work with. Or to show in obedience. Grooming Needs Would you love spending time every day brushing and combing a dog? Exercise Needs As you know, some breeds need a lot of exercise. We also do obedience training and she plays with puzzle toys. Lifespan Of course we want our pups to live forever. But some breeds generally live longer than others. Generally, larger—especially giant breeds—have shorter lives than their smaller counterparts. Friendliness or Independence Of course within any breed and litter you can have a wide array of personalities. But there are certain breed characteristics that can help guide your choice of which breed you want. I have dogs at both ends of the spectrum. My golden retriever Riley loves everyone and would do great in any setting. But my Lhasa apso Ralphie—true to breed—is more discriminating when making friends. So Riley would be great with well-behaved children and would love to be hugged by them. Health Problems Any dog can have unforeseeable health problems. But some breeds are likely to have more health problems than others. For example, bulldogs, pekingese, and pugs are among the breeds that are more likely to have breathing problems and overheat. Breed Types Of course there are many breeds and mixes to choose from. If you get your dog from a breeder, consider what lines your puppy comes from. If from working lines, the dog will likely be more intense than if from show lines. All of the below classes of dogs can make great companions in the right setting. Herding dogs were bred to herd, of course. Popular examples are border collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland sheepdogs. Generally, they require more exercise than some breeds like toy breeds. And they may become destructive if left to their own devices. Also, some bark excessively and may not be good in an apartment setting. Sporting dogs were bred to hunt. They have a lot of energy and need regular, invigorating exercise. Popular examples are golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, and cocker spaniels. Just like other working-type dogs, hounds have almost limitless energy. So attention to you may be an issue. Also, some bay when excited. Popular examples are beagles, dachshunds, and greyhounds. Dogs from the working group are alert, intelligent, strong, and bred to work with people to perform various tasks. Some were bred to guard property, to pull sleds, or to perform water rescue. Some popular examples are Doberman pinschers, huskies, and rottweilers. They require not only exercise and precise training so that their natural instincts are kept in check. Terriers are feisty and energetic and vary greatly in size. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, So a squirrel they see on their walk will be very alluring to them—and, without training, they may almost pull you off your feet trying to get to it. Some popular examples are Parson Russell terriers, Staffordshire terriers, or West Highland whirte terriers. Pit bulls which is a generic name for many types of terriers are also in this group. Toy breeds were generally bred as amiable companions. They may make great lap dogs and have big personalities despite their small stature. Shih tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas are some very popular examples. Nonsporting group dogs are a catch-all group with various sizes and personalities. Some popular examples are bulldogs, French bulldogs, bichon frise. There are so many options. You may want a certain breed. So a breeder or rescue of that breed should meet your needs. Just make sure that the breeder is a good one. Good breeders do so to improve their breed. Bad ones care only about making money. They do any necessary health certifications. They put a lot of time into their litters socializing them to new experiences and people. Good breeders are invested in their litters and will help you choose the right puppy for you. They stand behind their dogs for life and will readily answer your questions and take the dog back if you need to give him up. You can get referrals to such breeders through breed clubs, dog clubs, and resources such as the American Kennel Club. A reputable, good breeder also will have questions for you regarding your family, work, home, activity level, and reason why you want a dog or their breed. The pups will also have been checked by a veterinarian and been given the appropriate vaccinations for their age. There are also breed rescues that rehome dogs of their chosen breed. However, they rarely have puppies. Shelters and rescue groups can also be great places to get a puppy. Many use foster homes, where a puppy or litter of puppies are located. Foster parents get to know the puppies and can help determine whether any particular puppy is a good fit for you. Many rescue groups try to place a puppy in the best home possible. When I adopted my Aussie mix puppy Mille, the rescue group would adopt her out only to people who had experience with herding breeds. Many shelters are first come-first served. In order to place as many dogs as possible, they will adopt out a puppy to the first person who wants him—barring any obvious reason not to. How to Choose a Puppy from a Litter There are many tests that can be given to determine whether a puppy is a good fit. This assumes you have a litter to choose from. There is a range of temperaments and personalities in each litter, No puppy may perfectly meet every test below. But look at the big picture. So, in addition to your own observations, you can bring a friend along to have another opinion about the litter. Or you could hire a trainer to help you choose. Overall, as a companion, a middle-of-the-road dog usually works out best. Also, a reputable breeder or good rescue group or shelter who knows the puppy can help guide you in making your decision. See the Mother and Littermates If you can, watch the puppy and his littermates and mother interact. The puppy you choose should be able to take a proper correction and back off then re-engage. The breeder should have the mother available. Check Out the Puppy The puppy should look healthy and alert, not lethargic. Inspect his coat and skin. He should be well-fed with a little fat around his rib cage. The pup should run and walk normally, without a limp. A puppy should engage with people and be curious, not slink away or cower. A scared puppy will probably be more difficult to socialize and train. Will he follow you if you walk away? Clap your hands and make a kiss sound. Will he come towards you or run for the hills? Hold Puppy on His Back Hold him on his back for about 30 seconds. Ideally, he should briefly struggle and relax. When I had two sheltie puppies to choose from and one fought constantly when held and the other struggled briefly, then settled, I chose the latter. I had already gotten another dog from this great breeder. I wanted a dog who was a companion but who I also wanted to show in competitive obedience. My choice turned out to be the right one. Duffy was a great dog to live with and became a nationally-ranked obedience dog. He also did agility for fun and was a therapy dog who visited a hospital on a weekly basis. Hold the puppy and touch and gently open his mouth. Look in and gently rub his ears. .Gently touch each paw, even putting slight pressure on them. The puppy should be comfortable with these activities. He may slightly struggle. But a puppy who really fights against such touching, even to the point of mouthing or growling may turn out to be difficult to groom, handle, and pet. Pet the dog calmly from head to toe. He should enjoy it and relax. Pick the Puppies Up If you hold each puppy around the middle, ideally he would be relaxed and not struggle. Also, cradle the puppy up against you. Ideally, he should relax and like the attention. He may startle at first but should rebound and even go and check out what made the noise. Social Dominance Fall to the ground at least a few feet away from the puppy. He should want to come over and see what happened. Even if you like the look of a certain puppy, he may not be the right puppy for you. Consider the above factors as well as the following when choosing a puppy. The dogs live in rabbit-type hutches or dark barns. They receive no proper socialization, vet care, or human contact. There are also small back-yard breeders which, essentially, are puppy mills on a smaller scale. The mothers are bred at each heat and have horrible lives. Dogs sold in pet shops and through the internet usually come from them. Of course, do your own research because no one will admit they are a puppy mill. But two puppies may bond too much with each other. And to train, socialize, and exercise each puppy requires a lot of time, energy, and money. The dogs in shows have been highly trained and specially selected for their jobs. Then pick a great breeder, rescue, or shelter. Final Thoughts Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time! Do you have a puppy? How did you decide to choose him? Please let us know in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I had wanted a female red lab, none were available. A trainer near me was getting a second dog from a renowned breeder in Ireland and she asked if he had a puppy for diabetic service dog work. Both her pup and my pup flew over from Ireland together. A pup with a desire to work, a willingness to please, and a calm demeaner. I received a cute ball of fluff, a male yellow lab pup with red ears and red highlights. A good breeder is able to match you with a dog that will meet your needs, give them all the information you can. I never met the breeder, but my pup arrived at 10 weeks old already already on his way to being well socialized, exposed to sounds, not nervous, liked the vacuum, fireworks are not a problem, loves the motorcycle sounds, handled all sorts of traffic noise at 3 months. We started his public training at 3 months old and he handled it like a champ. I had to buy a motorcycle with a sidecar as he always wanted to go out when the bikes were started up, so at 9 months he was in the sidecar with Rex Specs goggles. Did I mention he loves to travel and meet me people, when his tail wags which is all the time his whole body wags. Tweet on Twitter Buying your first dog can be a life changing decision. Choosing the right dog will help to ensure that your life changes in a good way. There are some wise precautions you might like to consider before viewing any litter of Labrador puppies. Or choosing which one to bring home with you. Buying a Puppy from a Friend It is often tempting to buy a puppy in an opportunistic moment of enthusiasm. Perhaps because you happen to hear of a friend who has a litter that will be ready to go to their new homes soon. Or a neighbour who has a gorgeous litter of puppies that you fall in love with when you pop over to admire. But the puppy that lives just around the corner, and the puppy that is going to bring you years of pleasure, may be two very different things. It is a really good idea to put your sensible hat on at times like these, and to approach the whole business of selecting your puppy in business-like way. The first decision to make is to choose what type of Labrador you wish to end up with. Which characteristics are most important to you, and will help him to fit into your family best. Choosing a Working or Show dog? Those bred for work, and those bred for the show ring. The working bred dog is generally very responsive and easy to train. But he may also fall short of what you expect in appearance. If you are hoping to get involved in gundog fieldwork, or agility at some point it is important to purchase a field or working bred labrador. Of course choosing a dog is so much more than just weighing up the pros and cons. There are now a number of hereditary diseases in labradors that can be tested for. Routine testing under these schemes is gradually growing in popularity for a number of conditions. These include hip dysplasia, elbow displasia, and a number of inherited eye diseases. However, there are still many puppies available for sale in the UK whose parents have not been tested, or that have been tested and fall below the necessary standard for breeding. Amazingly, in the UK, the Kennel Club will still register puppies from parents that have poor hip scores. Hopefully this will change in the future. You will need to read up on these to make sure you understand what you are looking for. Finding the right dog breeder Knowing where to look for a breeder is not easy. Labrador breeders come in all shapes and forms. At their best breeders are dedicated experts on their breed, who produce a few litters each year of top quality puppies for their own kennels show or field and sell any surplus to quality pet homes. At their worst, breeders are simply puppy farmers who churn out litter after litter with no thought to the health and welfare of either the puppies or their mother. Telling the difference is not always straightforward. In some cases these may be excellent puppies, in other cases they will not. The key to a good litter is a quality female dog with excellent health clearances, put to a compatible quality dog with equally excellent health clearances, and given quality care throughout pregnancy and beyond. The female dog must have a purpose beyond producing puppies, whether that is as show dog, working dog or highly treasured family pet. On the whole, this is more likely to be achieved by an experienced breeder. The Kennel Club in the UK run an accredited breeders scheme, and members agree to meet certain minimum standards. However, there are many excellent breeders who are not members of this scheme so do not dismiss a breeder on these grounds alone. The scheme is not perfect yet, and its standards are not necessarily enforced, as the KC prefers a voluntary approach. If you are inexperienced it is very important that you get some help in finding a breeder. Choosing one from a newspaper advert or from the internet when you know nothing of the source can be a risky decision. If you want to buy a pup from top working parents, then you may find the pups are all spoken for very quickly, long before they are eight weeks old. It can be disheartening to phone advert after advert only to find all the pups are gone. It pays to plan ahead. If you do some research, locate a really nice female dog, and book one of her pups before they are born, you may find the whole process a lot smoother. You may also be able to enjoy visiting and photographing the puppies whilst they are growing. Check the ancestry of the dog If you are buying a Labrador for gundog work, or agility, make sure the parents of the litter you want to view are from working stock, look for a few FTCH and FTW field trial champion and field trial winner in the pedigree. If you are hoping for success in the show ring, you should be looking for CH and SH CH title SH CH is show champion, CH is a show champion with a working certificate which is not a demanding or difficult test of working abilities. Viewing the puppies Some puppies will be raised in the home with the family. This can be ideal, as the pup will have been accustomed to people and the hustle and bustle of family life from the very beginning. Be aware though that not everyone who has a litter of puppies knows what they are doing. Look at how the pups are handled and how clean their quarters are. The pups should smell nice, and look bright and healthy. The litter may have been whelped and raised in kennels. This is also perfectly acceptable provide the breeder has accounted for this. An experienced breeder will have made sure that the pups have had plenty of human contact regardless of where they are living. Again look at the surroundings. A responsible breeder will run a clean and tidy kennels. Always see a puppy with its mother. If possible see the father too. The parents should be friendly and relaxed. The mother may not look her best seven or eight weeks after giving birth, but she should look healthy. Again, if you doubt your ability to make a judgement on a puppy or his parents, take an experienced person with you. Dog or female dog? Until fairly recently male dogs were more popular than female dogs. Fashions come and go, and at the moment, female dogs seem to be in favour. You will hear various claims as to the differences in temperament between them, but most of these contradict each other and it really is a matter of personal taste. The main disadvantage of a female dog is that she will come into season twice a year each year from the age of months until the end of her life. This can be inconvenient. Having your female dog spayed will prevent her coming into season, but the procedure is a major and expensive operation, and recent research has shown a few problems associated with spaying that you will want to consider before making your choice. Because female dogs are currently fashionable, you will probably pay more for a female dog, but as the price of a puppy is such a tiny fraction of what you will spend on her over her lifetime this is probably the least relevant factor. The appearance of a male dog may be more pleasing to some. Males tend to develop a squarer, more chunky head which some owners prefer. The average male will also grow a little taller and weigh a little more than a female. These differences are however fairly minor ones. If you are not sure whether you want a dog or female dog, keep an open mind. At least you will have a wider choice of puppies. Which puppy? If you have booked a puppy in advance from a reputable breeder, there may be little or no choice as to which puppy you have. It is not unusual to find that all puppies due in popular kennels have been booked before birth. If you are keen to buy a dog with plenty of red ink on the pedigree, you may need to do some research and book the pup as soon as the female dog has been mated. If you do get the chance to choose your puppy out of several in a litter, how should you go about it? Puppy Health Having made sure that the parents of the puppy you are viewing have good health clearances is a good start. You still need to make sure your puppy is healthy. A thorough check up by your own vet soon after you get him home will help put your mind at rest. But how can you be sure the puppy you are viewing is not sickly even before you bring him home? Some puppies may be more lethargic than others when you visit, but this may be a reflection of how hard they have been playing before you arrived, rather than how healthy they are. A good breeder will not try and sell an unhealthy puppy and if relevant, will point out any minor defects to you. Puppies are sometimes born with slightly misaligned jaws for example, which may not matter to someone who has no intention of breeding from the puppy or working him, but such a defect should not be concealed from the buyer. Umbilical hernias are not uncommon and can be troublesome. When you go to view a litter of pups it is really important to take someone with experience with you. This is especially important if the breeder is unknown to you and does not come recommended by anyone. Arrange to visit your vet within a day or two of bringing the pup home, and try not to form an attachment until he has been given a clean bill of health. If you have any doubts about the health of the puppy or the litter in general, ask for time to think. This dog will be with you for the next 12 years or more. You will become deeply attached to him or her and serious health problems can be cripplingly expensive to fix. Not to mention very distressing for you both. This needs to be the right decision for you and your family. Whilst health problems in puppies can be devastating the majority of puppies are robust and healthy and providing you take the precautions outlined above, you are unlikely to have any problems. More information on puppies Check out our Labrador Puppies section for more help and advice on choosing your new friend. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was first published on 21st November , and was updated to include new information in March .Readers Also Liked. No doubt, selection of the right pup to meet one's particular expectations is extremely important. Making a correct choice can improve the odds of producing an excellent retriever with the least amount of frustration and perhaps even avoid disappointment. The first and most important point to consider is that one must approach puppy acquisition as a genetic selection process rather than trying to utilize methods to select a promising prospect from a particular litter. Focus not so much on picking a pup, rather pick litters. The way to pick potentially successful liters is to pick a breeder who has proven brood stock and a credible reputation for producing healthy pups genetically predisposed to perform in a manner you desire. Carefully consider your expectations for your future gundog. What are the desirable traits? What will the dog's primary functions include? What breeds interest you and why? Once you decide on a breed and the desired traits are defined based upon your intended uses, then seek a reputable breeder who has experience producing pups which exemplify the traits that best suit your purposes. Genes determine the reaction of the dog to its environment, as well as, confirmation and soundness. Genes are the building blocks of heredity and are passed from parents to offspring in a predictable manner. The topic of genetics can quickly progress into a lengthy discussion unsuitable for this article but one can count on knowing this-like begets like. Total outcrosses, matings of unrelated genetics, may produce the occasionally exceptional offspring, but this is an unpredictable undertaking. The only way to gain predictability of traits is to seek an experienced breeder with proven bloodlines which produce successful progeny. This will usually involve some form of line breeding. The mating of similar genetic relationships line breeding is conducted to intensify qualities within the line and to improve upon the predictable traits within litters. Line breeding is successfully practiced in all forms of livestock. Line breeding itself produces nothing, good or bad, it merely intensifies what is genetically there in the bloodline. Most professional breeders use some form of line breeding as soon as they find a successful combination. In other words, outcrosses, random matings, despite the parents' apparent abilities and or titles, will not assure that the traits of the parents will be passed to the offspring. Only line breeding can offer this possibility. Consider, too, there is often as much difference between litter mates in ability, temperament, and tractability as one might find between separate litters within a breed. The chance factor remains, but the odds improve if the buyer: 1. Buys from established, reputable breeders who know their business. Buys pups from breeders who specialize in producing the type retriever they desire. Buys pups produced by excellent gundog parents who have produced proven progeny from previous matings. Select litters with strong mother lines. Dams should be trained hunting dogs and she should possess the qualities you desire in your dog, not just in the sire. Dams project more influence on the litter than the sire. Good bitches are seldom mated to poor dogs, yet the opposite frequently occurs. A poor bitch is unlikely to produce good pups despite the virtues of the sire. Look closely for desirable traits and strength in the trailing bottom line of the pedigree That is the dam, granddam, great granddam, etc. Excellent mothers are important. Don't pick litters based solely on the number of titles in the pedigree. These are impressive achievements to be sure, but they are not indicators of natural tractability, temperament, and gamefinding ability. Nor do titles indicate whether the traits may be passed successfully to the offspring. Evaluate parents of pups based upon gundog standards important to your needs and their demonstrated ability to produce good pups. Seek out sires, dams and grandparents that project strong genetic traits that can be passed through to their offspring. Research has indicated grandsires and granddams prove to have more genetic influence upon the litter than the sire and dam. Genetics can influence natural gifts, such as: calm temperament. Normally Lab puppies travel well, find more on this here. For many people it can be stressful not knowing how to pick or why you should pick any specific puppy. We will try to clear things up here so that you have a few criteria to select with. For the most part, the genetics of the purebred Lab puppies in the litter are set once the parents mate. When we choose to keep parents to breed we are choosing the best specimens and mating them with the hope that we are going to be creating even better puppies through the combination of their genes. Improving on weak areas with each litter is what professional breeding is all about. Now that you understand the genetic potential is set, you will work within your litter to try to narrow down the puppy who goes home with you. Keep in mind, that all of the puppies in the litter are of high quality. So, standing over the puppy box containing the puppies have a look without saying anything or doing anything. The puppies will either have different colored collars or different colored ribbons on them to identify them. Each different color corresponds to a unique microchip number implanted in that puppy. What are you looking for? Well, observe which puppies are the most active and the least active. Observe which puppy is bossy and more of a leader, and, which is more of a follower. Are there any outgoing puppies? Are there any shy ones? Please understand that puppies and all dogs for that matter will feed off of the energy of the animals and the humans around them. So, if you bring your children and they are full of energy, talking loudly, excited, etc… then the puppies will pick up on that and imitate their behavior to an extent. We love to see the kids! The vet bills, training, the poop cleaning, nail clipping, taking out to go pee at 6 am, trips to the vet, and so on are yours. All yours! So unless you feel your children have better skills to choose the puppy than you, try to leave them out of it. You want to use the criteria here to select the lab puppy that fits your family the closest. Ok, there are a couple of things I need to say first. On your pick up day and depending on how many puppies are in the litter, your puppies may be sleeping. The good news to this issue is that there will not be a bad puppy in the litter. As professional Labrador Retriever Breeders our primary goal is to create better Labrador Retriever puppies with each litter we produce. Depending on what the issue was with the puppy we would care for them or home them with a person who fully understood any issue present and was willing to care for them. Getting back to selecting your puppy. As you watch over the litter try to narrow it down to two puppies you are interested in and watch them. Look for any excitement, playfulness, shyness, active or lying around, or differences in color, size, or other physical attributes such as tail size, ear size, forehead and snout size, etc…. This means that these dogs are super smart, even tempered, loving and willing to please all because of the Labrador Retriever breed and the selections we make in our breeding program. Training is key to having a well behaved Purebred Lab Retriever puppy. On the day you pick up your puppy it will be normal for the puppies to be on the shy side. Though they have been socialized by 5 or 6 of us they get use to us. So the new sights, smells, sounds etc… that you bring will all be a brand new thing for them. At 8 weeks old they are unsure if these new stimuli are safe and they may be cautious coming to you. Again, all normal. On the other hand, a puppy who comes right up to you with no apprehension may be the one you want. Especially if you are a hunter and you need your dog to work to retrieve game. You should also know that if a puppy runs from its pack to see you it is not choosing you! It could be the more dominant or most curious puppy and it would approach anyone coming to see the litter not just you. Can we pick your lab puppy? Sure we can! The latest research we have read on the topic indicates that how a puppy behaves at 8 weeks old when with its litter has no bearing on the puppy it becomes after you train it properly. This means that for most people the training and socialization you provide is much more important than which puppy you choose. We always suggest picking the most easily trainable puppy and we will be happy to do this for you. For the best explanation on setting yourself up properly to lead your puppy to becoming a well behaved dog, please sign up for the www. A generous discount is available for our clients to help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to train your puppy. So we are happy to offer advice and can absolutely choose your puppy in the event you cannot make it, but doing so on your own would be the best scenario. Another method we frown on is the breeder evaluating a puppy with a tool to grade their personality and then comparing that to a marking tool that you complete to grade yourself. Remember when I said puppies respond differently to different people? Well they have basic emotions similar to that of a two year old. If you are not in the room, and I am evaluating the puppy remember my experience with puppies and your lack of , then how can a score sheet be used to match the two of you together effectively? You need to see the puppy behave with you. So you have it narrowed down to two puppies, compare similar personality traits and physical features as I mentioned earlier. Toss in the fact that they have medium energy and poof! Please understand what you see the puppies doing on pick up day are not how they are going to act for the rest of their lives. Puppies are not born with any knowledge of these things and rather need to be trained to understand your boundaries. For this reason we have focused on breeding smarter puppies generation after generation. At least you have some guidelines to use when you arrive. For example, the largest puppy is not necessarily going to be the biggest one when full grown. At 8 weeks old the biggest puppy has been the one who is the pushiest at the food bowl and eats the most at feedings. This is why 8 weeks is the best time for your Lab puppy to go to bond with their human family. As some puppies get larger in size they can push the other smaller puppies around so size then becomes another factor in the development of your puppy. Take your puppy home at 8 weeks old and you have provided them time with their litter to learn puppy to puppy manners weeks 4 to 8 and you have eliminated the possibility of them being bullied by the larger pups after week 8. The larger pups also will not learn to become overly dominant because there are not smaller ones around them to boss around. What about people who want the runt? The first group feel that because the runt is smaller they will listen better when truly listening is a skill learned through training. And the second group feel that a smaller puppy is sick and weak and will not thrive. Again this is not the case as smaller puppies simply do not have as strong of a food drive than their siblings. The larger issue surrounding the runt is this. Professional Lab Retriever Breeders breed for consistency. It is this consistency in our breeding program that ensures the first picked puppy is of the same high quality as the last picked. So before you arrive to choose your Purebred Lab Puppy, have a couple behavioral qualities in mind and a couple physical qualities. Observe quietly and try not to bring too many people with you so that the puppies only pick up your energy and not the energy of the group. This is the best way to truly observe how the puppy will react to you alone. Narrow it down to a couple and compare them together measuring them against your list of traits. If you make a choice to not train you have to be ready to deal with whatever your Lab decided to become. And one final note. Some people have heard to wipe a blanket where the puppy sleeps or on the mother because the scent will calm the puppy in your home. Think of it this way, if your puppy smells the mother or one of its littermates what does it do next? So a blanket with this scent on it will cue your puppy to look for someone who is likely not coming back. Imagine the frustration of a puppy newly separated from its litter being able to smell them but not find them. We suggest you do not do this to your puppy. Our suggestion to help settle the puppy only if you need to is to put a t shirt into the crate with the scent of the person who they bonded the most to. This is their new pack. Get them accustom to their new pack and the quicker they forget their old pack the easier it will be for them. Love them, set clear guidelines, and enjoy them for years to come. Chocolate Lab with pumpkin.