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And while German Shepherds do look intimidating, owners may wonder if they were chosen for the job due to high dog intelligence. German Shepherds are some of the smartest dogs in the world. But even so, their intelligent instincts and their ability to adaptively learn is what actually makes the German Shepherd smarter than nearly all dogs. But how did we come to this conclusion? However, this type of test favors breeds that enjoy working, such as the German Shepherd, more than others breeds that were bred for something else. Based on a criteria he developed, the obedience trial judges evaluated as many dog breeds as they could. That said, his criteria for dog intelligence is as follows: The number of repetitions needed for a dog breed to learn a new command. Dog breeds that needed fewer repetitions ranked higher on the list. The success rate that a dog breed will obey a known command on the first try. Despite the enormous response, not all dog breeds made the final cut. Rarer dog breeds did not have a big enough sample size to qualify. In other words, there were no hybrid breeds that participated despite their popularity. Not even the smart Goldendoodle had a shot. However thanks to the overwhelming popularity of the German Shepherd in America, they easily met both requirement. Plus, GSDs are recognized as a distinct breed with every kennel club in the world. So, they participated. In fact, only two other dog breeds managed to top them in obedience and working intelligence — the Border Collie and Poodle. But as a top smartest dog, what does this mean? German Shepherds were placed in the top dog intelligence class, among the top 10 dogs. Breeds in this class are able to learn a new command with fewer than 5 repetitions. German Shepherds are able to learn basic commands in a few minutes! In addition, German Shepherds exhibited characteristics of high obedience. Not many animals can do the same! Coincidentally, some of the most popular dog breeds in the world! German Shepherds vs. Dumbest Dogs On the other side of the spectrum are the least intelligent dog breeds, at least according to Coren. Not only are they much slower at learning, but also a lot less obedient. All of which, can be quite intelligent outside of obedience and working intelligence. Dogs in the least intelligent class need between 80 and repetitions to learn a new command. This meant that German Shepherds are at least 16 times faster at learning new commands than these dogs in the lowest class! In other words, German Shepherds are about 3 to 4 times more obedient than these other dogs. That said, there are actually three components of dog intelligence, according to Stanley Coren. The other two, which may actually be more important, are instinctive and adaptive intelligence. Both of which, the German Shepherd excels in as well. German Shepherds have sharp instincts for guarding Instinctive intelligence refers to the natural ability or innate skill that the dog was originally bred for. In the past, all dogs were bred for a specific role or purpose. In addition, only a few toy dogs were actually bred for solely companionship. For example, Welsh Corgis were bred to herd cattle, sheep and other farm livestock. But without little to no human training or intervention, Corgis are able to instinctively round up and drive livestock in their desired direction. That is their instinctive intelligence. Likewise, German Shepherds were bred to be the ultimate utility dogs. In other words, they could do it all as a multi-purpose working dog. German Shepherds did, and excelled, at almost everything. They were used as herding dogs, sheep guards, police dogs, therapy dogs and much more. Once Sheba was satisfied that no one was lurking around, we settled down for the night. No one taught him that. But how is this high intelligence? A popular trait of the best guard dogs is the ability to differentiate a friend from a threat. German Shepherds are great at reading intentions based on human expressions or actions. This requires this special type of intelligence. To become so great at so many dog jobs, you need to have high instinctive intelligence. Just check our these German Shepherds doing what they do best: 2. The German Shepherd is great at learning from past experiences The final dimension of dog intelligence is adaptive intelligence. This refers to the ability of the dog to learn for itself. Problem solving and the ability to learn from past experiences are both associated with high adaptive intelligence in dogs. Though, we do have real owner stories that suggest high adaptive intelligence in German Shepherds. Smart boy, indeed. As we already know, learning verbal commands is easy for the German Shepherd. As such, learning word correlations is not a problem for this dog. But how about learning actions through other stimuli? Scooter the German Shepherd learned a specific scent and the subsequent action. These are just two examples, but if you asked any German Shepherd owner, they would probably tell you equally remarkable stories of adaptive IQ in these dogs. Is Your German Shepherd Smart? The experts tell us that German Shepherds are smart, but what do the owners say? So, we surveyed the popular GSD Subreddit and other online dog forums for real answers from real owners. Real Owner Answers: 1. They are amazingly loyal and will want to be with you. You will never go to the bathroom alone again, ever. She likes to see how far she can push me, but that comes with owning an intelligent breed. She learns new things almost immediately and does whatever I tell her. It took a few months of constantly being assertive with her before she finally came around. But mine moved to intermediate in 3 weeks. He picks up everything pretty fast, like he understands English. With higher intelligence, comes more responsibilities. Smarter dogs, like the GSD, will need extra care and attention. Because German Shepherds are so intelligent, they require a ton of mental stimulation. It makes a lot of sense, as dogs with higher mental capacities need more mental activities. Without daily mental activities , GSDs may exhibit destructive behavior. Mental stimulation can come in many forms, such as brain games, obedience training and dog puzzles. And while obedience training may seem to be the most obvious, not all owners have the time to provide hours of training a day. The solution: puzzles and toys. With that said, here are my favorite dog puzzles. For your German Shepherd, make sure to get a size large. A dog puzzle that my dogs absolutely love is the Nina Ottosson Dog Puzzle. There are 3 variations, but I went with the Hide n Slide. I suggest you take a look at Amazon here. If not what I recommended, I suggest you get them something. Is the German Shepherd For Me? German Shepherds are fantastic dogs that bring the brains and brawn. GSDs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world for a reason. But know that they come with a lot of work. Sure, it can make training easier in the beginning, but the extra amount of mental exercises needed will make a GSD more time-consuming than you think. All dogs are capable of learning basic tricks and commands. Some dog breeds just require more patience or consistency than others. Are they a good fit for you and your lifestyle? German Shepherds are devoted, brave and freakishly intelligent. Do you own a German Shepherd? Let us know in the comments section below! Posts you may like:. Thus, herding breeds rank high on the list of top 10 most intelligent breeds, especially the German Shepherd due to its long-standing history of guarding and tending to its flock. Since German Shepherds fall under all of the complex and demanding activities listed, their brain structure helps determines why German Shepherds are so smart. German Shepherds perform complex tasks related to their jobs. They are treasured companions dogs, diligent workers, and their explosive energy levels make them a prime candidate for obedience dog training and specialized tasks to help disabled people. Are you thinking of going to a breeder and need some advice on how to pick the German Shepherd puppy of your dreams? German Shepherd Dogs are valued for their sharp sense of smell. Their expertise to identify trace chemicals that are entirely beyond human and complex mechanical detection is well established. How good is their sense of smell? And, while many of us are privileged enough to have access to state-of-the-art hospitals, others are in dire need. The Nose of a Soldier But, using the intelligence of the GSD in medicine is only one of the many ways in which their smartness is put to the test. Many other branches of work require the use of the keenness of their scent detecting abilities. This accounts for their use in police drug detection and search and rescue units. A study ranked the German Shepherd higher than other breeds for scenting. Another study discovered that police dogs primarily German Shepherd Dogs with a specific gene were determined as having significantly better scent detection skills than other dogs who had the same scent detection training but did not have this gene. This presents some support for the idea that genetic changes within the GSD breed may provide German Shepherds with superior scenting abilities and, therefore, more instinctual intelligence. Smelling for Intruders Given their history as a herding breed, they also had to be aware of the enemies to their flock that may cause injury. GSDs are attentive to their surroundings and smells to stay sharp and on the lookout for the smell of wolves or other predators to their sheep. They were often left on their own to guard the flock and keep their sheep together. A Dachshund, a dog bred to find a trail scent, has around million smell receptor cells, while the German Shepherd has about million scent receptor cells, making the German Shepherd a scent-detection powerhouse source. A German Shepherd has more scent receptors than a Dachshund, a breed known for their tracking abilities. This level of scent receptors provides the German Shepherd brain with additional information about their environment in order to analyze their surroundings and make intelligent decisions. So, the German Shepherd is smarter than most scenting dogs and their physical adaptability gives them an advantage over many other breeds. Their Chameleon Capabilities German Shepherds are favored as the standard breed because of their unique combination of characteristics. Shepherds are intelligent, trustworthy, predictable, easily trained, and can adapt quickly to almost any climatic conditions source. While many dog breeds exhibit some or most of these outstanding traits, the Shepherd more than any other breed most reliability presents all of these traits in a well-packaged athletic frame. Military units the world over choose the German Shepherd Dog for its amazing ability to thrive in complex environments. German Shepherds are generally reserved for Specialized Search Dogs, which are a distinct class of dogs trained to work off-leash at long distances from their handler in order to detect explosives. They work by hand signals, and in the United States Marines can also receive instructions through radio receivers they wear on their backs to communicate with their handler. Thus, the GSD is a chameleon capable of responding under high-stress expectations during times of war and other peace-keeping missions. This intelligent dog is a life-saver in times of battle and puts their life first before their handlers. While preparing a dog for war is a great feat to teach, you can start training your German Shepherd to become smarter around the house today. Even as a young puppy a German Shepherd is highly intelligent! As early as 7 weeks and up to 12 weeks of age thinking capabilities in the German Shepherd puppy is fully developed. However, puppies need real-world experience to boost their mental abilities. Research confirms that behaviors are molded and changed most easily throughout the time when learning happens most quickly. As exposure to real-world experiences progress, so does brain cells in the relevant regions of their brain. The significance of this early developmental phase with its possible life-altering links cannot be stressed enough for German Shepherd Dog owners. Yes, you can help a German Shepherd become smarter if you take the right steps. There are several ways to make your German Shepherd smarter and increase their intelligence. If you leave your GSD to find their own work, they may be so inclined to get into trouble. Teach your German Shepherd how to have a job at home. Pick any one job from the list and start working with your German Shepherd today. Give them the right amount of exercise. German Shepherds are highly athletics and need the right exercise routine to give them the best possible health and keep their minds from becoming bored. Want the best exercises for your dog? Provide them the right chew toys. Chew toys provide your intelligent breed with plenty of stimulating ways to engage their minds while helping control their stress. If you want your GSD to learn how to calm their minds, then chew toys can help them release tension. These safe, non-toxic, and stimulating Chew Toys for German Shepherd Dogs are meant to satisfy their primal urges to gnaw and bite while releasing stress and anxiety. Challenge their brains daily. Play brain games for German Shepherds to keep their senses sharp. Brain games help the GSD to develop a broader mind by encouraging them to think through new experiences and tasks. You can find many exciting mind games for German Shepherds to help you get started. Begin obedience training early. You can do this through positive training while also stimulating their minds using the Brain Training for Dogs program. Why are German Shepherds so smart? The Complete Canine Package German Shepherds have a long history as an all-around working breed that excels in almost any environment. From medicine to the military, all the way to your everyday service dog, the German Shepherd is a dog that is second to none in their abilities to adapt and excel. She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Sound in mind and body, strong, functional, intelligent, trainable, courageous, and resilient. These are the natural qualities that can only be realized through the incredible genetics of purebred German Shepherds. We only import the best-of-the-best. Certified champions straight from Germany! Due to his home being burglarized in , Wayne decided to train dogs in tracking, obedience, and protection. His untrained Staffordshire Bullterrier was unable to protect his home and he then decided to obtain a Rottweiler for protection. Wayne continued to train Rottweilers up until the early 90s where he purchased his first German Shepherd. He was raised along side German Shepherds which had a huge impact toward his love and respect for the breed. At Kraftwerk K9, we honor the history of the German Shepherd. We here at Kraftwerk K9 care for and teach these world-class dogs to live up to their full potential. Our ethical breeding facility sits on 25 gorgeous acres of Washington soil and is available for touring before purchase. Take a look at our facility Learn more about our certified German Shepherds by calling today at or visiting our Available Dog page!

Boston Boxer Highlights Boston Boxers are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Boston Terrier or Boxer parents. The main colors of Boston Boxers are black, brown, fawn, blue, and white. Sometimes their coats are solid, and sometimes they have a mix of colors, like in a pied or brindle pattern. Boston Boxers are known to be a good choice for families with children. Always supervise playtime. The Boston Boxer is a highly energetic mixed breed. If left alone for too long or without any sort of stimulation, this energy can manifest in unwanted destructive behaviors. Make sure your dog gets at least one good half-hour- to hour-long walk per day with a few good, active play sessions and shorter walks mixed in. When it comes to other pets, Boston Boxers can get along with other animals if they are introduced slowly and calmly, and early socialization will help this go smoothly. Boston Boxer History The Boston Boxer mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Boston Terriers and Boxers in the late s, likely in North America. Breeders wanted to mix the two parent breeds to keep the friendly and energetic spirit of the Boxer but in a smaller, Boston Terrier size. They continued to create Boston Boxers as demand for the mixed breed pups climbed. Even though the Boston Boxer got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide the Boston Boxer is the dog for you. Be sure to check your local shelters, look up Boston Boxer or Miniature Boxer rescues, or check with breed-specific Boxer or Boston Terrier rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Boston Boxer Size Since the Boston Boxer is a relatively new mixed breed, there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Boston Terrier and Boxer parents, you can expect your Boston Boxer to be on the small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 22 to 55 pounds and range in height from 15 to 23 inches from the shoulder. However, many can be larger or smaller than average. The Mini Boxer can be somewhat hesitant around strangers, which is why it is very important to socialize your Boston Boxer as early as possible to make sure they are people-friendly. These dogs are prone to attaching to one particular family member, and they can become somewhat protective of them. Even with their protective tendencies, most Boston Boxer enthusiasts say their dogs are complete goofballs. The Boston Boxer is also a highly energetic mixed breed, so they are best-suited with people who can keep up with the pace. Some of the more common health problems Boston Boxer suffer from include: heart murmurs. Lifespan Sociability Boston Boxer dogs are very popular, resulting in many breeders. We recommend searching for as many as possible to find the perfect puppy before you make your decision. Always ask a breeder to show you the facilities before making any payment. In many cases, you can find a breeder that is willing to sell you a puppy at a reduced cost, but we must caution against prices that are too good to be true, as unscrupulous breeders often create these puppies in unsafe environments known as puppy mills. The best way to fight puppy mills is not to buy their puppies. You can always ask your local shelter if they have a Boxer mix that resembles the Boston Boxer. They are athletic and can run fast and jump quite high and will maintain a fast pace for extended play sessions before tiring. They quickly become attached and protective of their owners and are wary of strangers who might cause them to become aggressive and bark. However, they generally get along with other household pets and small yard animals like bunnies and squirrels. Boston Boxers are sensitive to their environment and prefer a set, predictable schedule, and they can be stubborn if you change things up too quickly. They are very intelligent and easy to train, as long as they think they are in charge. They love the company and will remain at your side most of the day. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They are very friendly, energetic, and playful. They get along well with pets including, cats and other dogs. They like to play with children and will provide each other with unlimited amounts of entertainment. Boston Boxers are intelligent enough to follow orders and behave and will even learn tricks and guard the house while you are away. They will require at least one family member to take them out for long walks, though, and these are high maintenance in the exercise department, requiring at least one hour of running and jumping each day. If you live in the city, it can be challenging to find enough room, and you will likely require access to a park or trail. They are even more friendly if you socialize them early and get them used to other animals, but even so, this breed rarely gets aggressive toward another animal. This food should be high-quality without any harmful chemicals or preservatives. High-quality dog food will contain meat, vegetables, grains, and fruits, according to the American Kennel Club. You can expect to take your Boston Boxer for a long walk every day, and on some days, you may need a second walk. You can expect to walk at least eight miles a week spread out over about an hour a day, every day, for the next several years when purchasing a Boston Boxer. In most cases, you will only require patience and a bunch of treats to have your Boston Boxer impressing your friends. To train your pet, simply stand in front of them with a treat ready. Boston Boxers are smart and will know you have it. When they figure it out and sit, give them a treat. Stand them back up and repeat. After several tries, your Boston Boxer will catch on and quickly sit on command. Using the above system, you can teach your dog plenty of tricks, like shaking hands, fetch, rollover, and plenty of others. You can even teach them more complex tricks like retrieving the newspaper with a little practice. They only require occasional brushing and trimming of their nails. But there are a few problems associated with them that you should know about before you make a purchase. Minor Conditions. Light brown, black and brown, white and cream, black, brown and white Suitable for: Active families, families with children Temperament: friendly, alert, affectionate, loving, intelligent, loyal, social, protective Although not recognized by major kennel club registries, these non-aggressive dogs make excellent companions for adults and children alike. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. This characteristic makes them quite similar to other dogs. Miniature Boxers are also known for their sociability and desire to be around others as they dislike being alone. Their lifespan can be anywhere from years with the possibility of certain health conditions developing during the course of their life. Overall, Miniature Boxers can be trained to be excellent household pets. They are best described as being intelligent, friendly, affectionate, alert, loving, playful, gentle, loyal, protective, and social. Miniature boxers are seen as an excellent choice for a family pet because of their friendly and protective nature. Keep in mind that Miniature Boxers can become verbal and aggressive when they meet a stranger and associate it with a sense danger to their human family. However, once they are assured that there is no danger, they will go back to their usual behavior. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They can prove to be a great addition to the household for people from all walks of life including active families, novice dog owners, singles, couples, and active retirees. For kids, having a Miniature Boxer will give them the opportunity to learn practical life lessons about responsibility, patience, and compassion. These high-energy dogs have no issues getting along with other dogs so long as they are properly trained and socialized. The training process begins in the Miniature Boxers first few years of life so by the time they are a bit grown, they will have no issues interacting with others and being social. Furthermore, Miniature Boxers that have been trained get along well with family cats and other animals. This is a great perk because if you have more than one pet in your house, you will not have to worry about your Miniature Boxer getting into a fight or injuring the other ones. Are affected by skin infections and other health issues. Spend a lot of time indoors under artificial light. Boston Boxers Are Smart Boston Boxers display an above-average intelligence, especially regarding instinctive intelligence. In a study [1] conducted on breeds, Stanly Coren [2] analyzed three types of dog intelligence: Instinctive intelligence Adaptive intelligence Working and obedience intelligence The results placed Boston Terriers in 54th place and Boxers in 48th place. This means the mix between them is somewhere in between. They are family oriented and show high levels of tolerance for the unpredictable behavior of children. Their patient and loving nature also make them good around children. Still, dogs should generally not be left alone with children. Supervision is essential to preventing accidents. They do also have a predisposition for aggressive behavior. Boston Boxers are somewhat adaptable, but they like a daily schedule. This involves eating and exercising at specific hours. When their routine or environment changes, Boston Boxer Terriers become stressed. But, they adapt to new conditions fairly fast. It will end up stressed and sad. They need constant mental stimulation as their parent breeds evolved with a purpose. Even though the Boston Boxer is bred for companionship, they like to solve puzzles and play with mentally stimulating toys. They also love learning new tricks and helping out. To keep them happy, try involving them in your daily activities and teach them how to help. Boxer Bostons get bored easily and become frustrated if they are not engaged. If this happens, they end up developing behavioral issues, such as barking. While hunting, both Boston Terriers and Boxers were taught to be aggressive. Luckily, they were trained for hunting aggression, not killing aggression. In , researchers analyzed the aggressive behavior related to fear in German Shepherds and Boxers [3]. They concluded that both breeds display the same levels of fear-aggressive behavior when they sense a threat. Boston Terriers were bred for pit fights, which made the part of their brain responsible for aggression more evolved. A recent study [4] suggests that the purpose of a dog influences how their brain evolves. They then pass these traits to their offspring. Boxer Bostons inherit a predisposition for aggressive behavior from both parents. This can be altered with training and socialization. This mixed breed has a longer history but the breeding was unintentional before .The time of its first occurrence is unknown. Their parents are the English Terrier and the English Bulldog. The initial purpose of Boston terriers was to take part in pit fights. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club in .In , it took first place. Boxer Origin The Boxer dog was initially bred in Germany in the late eighteen hundreds. The initial purpose of Boxers was bull baiting and controlling cattle. During World War 1, Boxers were also used by the military: Guard dogs.

French Bulldogs are one of the most charming and cutest dog breeds out there, But it does not end there! There are some pretty interesting facts about these unique coats that you need to know before you get one for yourself. What Is a Brindle French Bulldog? While the French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, the most striking ones are the ones with that special brindle coat. Brindle French bulldog has this dazzling pattern compared to a regular Frenchie. This brindle pattern is known for its darkness. The twisting stripe pattern of colors is so much darker than the typical base color of their coat, with a bit of a blend of lighter hair throughout the coat. However, the most common are the ones with darker and lighter colors, but there are other colors too with different features and mainly patterns. Brindle French Bulldogs This is the common coat color, with a darker coat with a mixture of lighter hair. Seal Brindle French Bulldogs The seal brindle is mostly comparable to a typical Brindle with a few white hairs; it mostly looks similar to a pure black french bulldog. Most of the time, the coat looks grey, though. Chocolate Brindle French Bulldogs Chocolate brindle, as the name suggests, has a chocolate brown color with a slight mixture of a milky color; they have blue eyes while the nose and nails are brown. Reverse Brindle French Bulldogs Reverse Brindles have white or cream color coats along with dark patches or even stripes. This one is considered to be much rarer than the others. Pied Brindle French Bulldogs Pied Brindles are almost similar to the reverse brindles when it comes to the coat colors; the difference comes from the dark patches. These are all the colors that you can expect in a brindle french bulldog. The brindled pattern comes from the genes, specifically the K-Locus gene, which is responsible for the fawn, dominant black, brindle colors. If the Frenchie needs to have a Brindled pattern, both its parents should have a recessive K gene. However, not every brindle pattern is the same; each one is different from one other; some may have the brindled patterns all over them while the other will have the pattern on specific areas. Size You might know that the French bulldogs are small-sized dogs, they only stand inches tall, and both males and females weigh 28 pounds 12kg on average. Grooming When it comes to grooming a Frenchie, it is one of the easiest dog breeds to do so mainly because of its short fine hair. If you want your Frenchies coat to look the part, you will have to bathe him 4to5 times every year, brush them with a stripping comb outside, and grooming mitt regularly. Temperament French Bulldogs are very social dogs and will get along with people, children, and even other pets very quickly. Training and Exercise Frenchies are considered to be stubborn and challenging to train, so you may have to train them earlier. Nowadays online programs like Doggy Dan dog training helps to train any dogs at home. Brindle French Bulldogs are prone to gaining unhealthy weight, so exercising an hour every day is crucial; also, keep in mind that these breeds are prone to obstructive airway syndrome, so avoid exercising in warmer climates, because it might lead to difficulty breathing. Also, avoid spending much time in the hot sun; this might cause skin burns. Diet A good meal is essential to a Brindle Frenchie mainly because it keeps their coat in perfect shape. Also, if the franchise is still a puppy, they might eat more than their adults, so avoid overfeeding them. Health Brindle French Bulldogs are not short of complicated health problems, and not just one or two; there is a long list of potential health problems that can affect a Frenchie. There are 3 common issues that you are likely to encounter while raising a Frenchie: Cherry Eye. Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic French Bulldog Overview Bat-eared but oddly beautiful, the French Bulldog has a unique appeal. Aesthetically, other breeds undeniably are more glamorous and showy, but beauty is in the eye of the beholder and what many behold in the French Bulldog are the attributes that make this breed one of the best companion dogs in the world today. The French Bulldog is small but substantial in build with a powerful muscular body. He sports a short easy-care coat to accompany his easygoing personality. The Frenchie likes to play, but he also enjoys spending his days relaxing on the sofa. That love of play and relaxed attitude carry over into their training sessions. French Bulldogs are intelligent, and training them is easy as long as you make it seem like a game and keep it fun. They are free thinkers and are not an ideal breed for competing in obedience or agility although some have risen to the challenge. This freethinking approach can also lead to a stubborn nature, and if they decide to dig in their heels there is no budging them. Frenchies are loving companions who thrive on human contact. If you want an outdoor dog who can be left alone for long periods, the Frenchie is not the breed for you. This is a dog who enjoys lavishing love on his human companions as much as he loves the same treatment in return. They generally get along well with everyone, including children. They can, however, be territorial and possessive of their people, especially in the presence of other dogs. Socialization is a must for this breed, but with their easy companionship this is an enjoyable task. With a nature that is both humorous and mischievous, the French Bulldog needs to live with someone who is consistent, firm, and patient with all the antics and idiosyncrasies that make him both frustrating and delightful. They can be protective of their home and family and some will try to defend both with their life. French Bulldogs do not need a lot of room and do very well in apartments or small dwellings. A couple of minute walks per day should keep them from becoming overweight. Keep the Frenchie in cool, comfortable surroundings. This is not a dog who can stay outside on a hot day. French Bulldogs are wonderful companion dogs with a gentle nature. If you work at home, the Frenchie is happy to lie at your feet all day or follow you from room to room. French Bulldog Highlights Friendly and playful: French Bulldogs are known for their friendly and playful personality. They love to cuddle and play fetch. Low-maintenance: French Bulldogs are relatively low-maintenance dogs. They only require moderate exercise and grooming. Good with children: French Bulldogs are good with children and other pets. They make great family dogs. Intelligent: French Bulldogs are intelligent dogs and can be easily trained. Adaptable: French Bulldogs can adapt to different living conditions. They are a good choice for apartment dwellers or people with active lifestyles. Healthy: French Bulldogs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as brachycephalic airway syndrome and cherry eye. Overall, French Bulldogs are great dogs for people of all ages and lifestyles. They are friendly, playful, and low-maintenance, making them a perfect addition to any family. They were originally bred to be bull-baiting dogs, but this practice was outlawed in England in .French Bulldogs were then imported to France where they became popular as companion dogs. In France, French Bulldogs were often kept by lacemakers and other artisans who worked in small shops. The dogs were prized for their gentle nature and their ability to adapt to cramped living quarters. French Bulldogs also became popular with the French upper class, and they were often depicted in paintings and sculptures. French Bulldogs were first brought to the United States in the late s, and they quickly became popular with American families. The dogs were known for their friendly and playful personality, and they made great companions for children. French Bulldogs also became popular with celebrities, and they were often featured in movies and television shows. Today, French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. They are known for their friendly and playful personality, their low-maintenance coat, and their adaptability to different living conditions. French Bulldogs make great companions for people of all ages and lifestyles. The French Bulldog thrived in France and Europe, and his charm was soon discovered by Americans as well. Males weigh 20 to 28 pounds, females 16 to 24 pounds. French Bulldog Personality This is a smart, loving dog who wants and needs to spend lots of time with his people. Hip dysplasia can exist with or without clinical signs. Some dogs exhibit pain and lameness on one or both rear legs. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Dogs with hip dysplasia should not be bred. Ask the breeder for proof that the parents have been tested for hip dysplasia and found to be free of problems. Brachycephalic Syndrome : This disorder is found in dogs with short heads, narrowed nostrils, or elongated or soft palates. Their airways are obstructed to varying degrees and can cause anything from noisy or labored breathing to total collapse of the airway. Dogs with brachycephalic syndrome commonly snuffle and snort. Treatment varies depending on the severity of the condition but includes oxygen therapy as well as surgery to widen nostrils or shorten palates. Allergies: Allergies are a common problem in dogs. The medication for inhalant allergies depends on the severity of the allergy. It is important to note that ear infections often accompany inhalant allergies. Hemivertebrae: This is a malformation of one or more vertebrae that causes it to be shaped like a wedge or triangle. This malformation can occur on its own or with other vertebrae malformations. Hemivertebra can cause no problems, or it can put pressure on the spinal cord. This can lead to pain, weakness, and or paralysis. There is no treatment for the condition unless there is spinal cord pressure. It is caused when the patella, which has three parts — the femur thigh bone , patella knee cap , and tibia calf — is not properly lined up and slips in and out of place luxates. This causes lameness or an abnormal gait the way the dog moves. The rubbing caused by patellar luxation can lead to arthritis, a degenerative joint disease. There are four grades of patellar luxation ranging from grade I, an occasional luxation causing temporary lameness in the joint, to grade IV, in which the turning of the tibia is severe and the patella cannot be realigned manually. This gives the dog a bowlegged appearance. Severe grades of patellar luxation may require surgical repair. When the disc pushes into the spinal cord, nerve transmissions are inhibited from traveling along the spinal cord. Intervertebral Disc Disease can be caused by trauma, age, or simply from the physical jolt that occurs when a dog jumps off a sofa. When the disc ruptures, the dog usually feels pain and the ruptured disc can lead to weakness and temporary or permanent paralysis. In some cases surgery can help, but it must be done within a day or so of the injury. You may also want to ask your veterinarian about physical rehabilitation. Treatments such as massage, water treadmills and electrical stimulation are available for dogs and can have excellent success. It affects the clotting process due to the reduction of von Willebrand factor in the blood. Occasionally blood is found in the stool. This disorder is usually diagnosed in your dog between the ages of 3 and 5 and cannot be cured. However, it can be managed with treatments that include cauterizing or suturing injuries, transfusions of the von Willebrand factor before surgery, and avoiding certain medications. Cleft Palate : The palate is the roof of the mouth and separates the nasal and oral cavities. It is made up of two parts, hard and soft. A cleft palate has a slit that runs bilaterally or unilaterally and can range in size from a small hole to a large slit. A cleft palate can affect both the hard and soft palate separately and together and may cause a cleft lip. Puppies can be born with cleft palates, or a cleft palate can occur from an injury. Cleft palates are fairly common in dogs, but many puppies born with a cleft palate do not survive or are euthanized by the breeder. The only treatment for a cleft palate is surgery to close the hole, although not all dogs with a cleft palate require the surgery. It is important to get a diagnosis and treatment recommendation from your veterinarian. Elongated Soft Palate: The soft palate is the extension of the roof of the mouth. When the soft palate is elongated, it can obstruct airways and cause difficulty in breathing. The treatment for Elongated Soft Palate is surgical removal of the excess palate. Health clearances prove that a dog has been tested for and cleared of a particular condition. You can confirm health clearances by checking the OFA web site offa. Regardless of how healthy your dog is when you first bring them home, you should prepare for any issues that may come up throughout their life. French Bulldog Care French Bulldogs do not need a lot of exercise. They have fairly low energy levels, although there are exceptions to every rule. To keep their weight down, however, they need daily exercise through short walks or play times in the yard. Many French Bulldogs enjoy playing and will spend much of their time in various activities, but they are not so high energy that they need a large yard or long periods of exercise. This breed is prone to heat exhaustion and should not be exercised in hot temperatures. Limit walks and active play to cool mornings and evenings. When training a French Bulldog, take into account that although they are intelligent and usually eager to please, they are also free thinkers. That means they can be stubborn. It is important to crate train your French Bulldog puppy even if you plan to give him the freedom of the house when he reaches adulthood. French Bulldog Feeding Recommended daily amount: 1 to 1. NOTE: How much your adult dog eats depends on his size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. For more on feeding your Frenchie, see our guidelines for buying the right food , feeding your puppy , and feeding your adult dog. The skin is loose and wrinkled, especially at the head and shoulders, and has a soft texture. French Bulldogs come in a variety of colors, including fawn, cream, various shades of brindle — a coat patterned with specks and streaks of light and dark markings — such as black brindle and the striking tiger brindle, and brindle and white, known as brindle pied. French Bulldogs can be any color except solid black, liver a solid reddish-brown with brown pigmentation on the lips and nose , mouse a light steely gray , and black with white or tan. Run from any breeder who tells you that a particular color is rare and thus worth more money. Having your heart set on a fawn female is a recipe for disappointment when the litter contains only cream and brindle males. French Bulldogs are fairly easy to groom and need only an occasional brushing to keep their coat healthy. They are average shedders. Begin grooming your Frenchie at a young age and teach your puppy to stand on a table or floor to make this experience easier on both of you. When you are grooming your Frenchie at any stage of life, take the time to check for any scabs, skin lesions, bare spots, rough, flaky skin, or signs of infections. You should also check ears, eyes and teeth for any discharge or bad smells. Both are signs that your Frenchie may need to see the veterinarian. Clean ears regularly with a damp warm cloth and run a cotton swab around the edge of the canal. Never stick the cotton swab into the actual ear canal. If the edges of the ears are dry, apply mineral or baby oil sparingly. The oil can also be used on a dry nose. French Bulldogs do not naturally wear their nails down and will need their nails trimmed regularly. This prevents splitting and tearing, which can be painful for the dog. Keep the facial wrinkles clean and dry to prevent bacterial infections. Whenever you bathe your dog, take the time to thoroughly dry the skin between the folds. Bathe your French Bulldog monthly or as needed, and use a high-quality dog shampoo to keep the natural oils in his skin and coat. French Bulldogs should be easy to groom, and with proper training and positive experiences during puppyhood, grooming can be a wonderful bonding time for you and your Frenchie. That said, no dog should ever be left alone with a young child. When they are socialized to them during puppyhood, Frenchies can get along well with other dogs and cats. French Bulldog Rescue Groups French Bulldogs are often acquired without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one, and these dogs often end up in the care of rescue groups, in need of adoption or fostering. All dogs will need veterinary care at some point in their lives. French Bulldog Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. Below are breed clubs, organizations, and associations where you can find additional information about the French Bulldog. Me What exactly is a Brindle French Bulldog? You can recognize a brindle French Bulldog by light irregular streaks all over their dark base coat. The color of the brindle pattern is usually a light shade of fawn, while the base coat may vary: the standard is black but other colors like blue, chocolate and lilac are also possible. Depending on the mixture of the dark and fawn hairs, Brindle Frenchies can be very dark or very light. They usually have a black nose and dark colored eyes. Brindle is by far the oldest and most common pattern in French Bulldogs. To this day, it is one of the few accepted colors and patterns by kennel clubs along with fawn, white and pied as opposed to blue, chocolate and lilac colors. The first one has to be their funny and lovable personality! Frenchies are without the doubt one of the most social and friendliest dog breeds, who are also very smart and easy to train. Not to mention their cuddles are the best! Black brindle Frenchie puppies may also have a white chest or other small areas of white. Depending on the amount of fawn hairs, these streaks may appear either all over their bodies or on certain areas only. Blue brindle Frenchies are much more common than solid blue Frenchies, in fact the brindle patterns may appear on a blue puppy later on as they age. Blue brindle Frenchies also tend to have a white chest or other small areas of white. Pied Brindle Frenchies look the same except for the light fawn brindle patterns in the colored patches, mostly on their back. The way the patches are distributed and the proportion of the white and the other color on the coat can be quite variable from Frenchie to Frenchie. Chocolate brindle French Bulldog Chocolate brindle French Bulldogs have a chocolate brown base coat with light fawn streaks all over their bodies. The chocolate gene is considered rare in the Frenchie world so these puppies are quite unique. Reverse brindle Frenchies are much harder to come by than brindle Frenchies. Tiger brindle French Bulldog As the name suggests, tiger brindle French Bulldogs have a heavy pattern of light fawn streaks all over their dark-colored bodies, resembling the coat of a tiger. Lilac brindle French Bulldog Lilac Frenchies usually have a solid light grey coat, but sometimes light streaks may appear on them producing a lilac brindle French Bulldog. These Frenchies are very unique as their parents have to be blue and chocolate, or at least a carrier of the rare chocolate gene. Do Brindle French Bulldogs Shed? Brindle French Bulldogs, like any other Frenchie tend to shed throughout the year, more so in the spring and fall. During this period, they change their coat almost completely, replacing it with shinier, brighter and nicer fur. It's important to brush your puppy's hair at least two or three times a week using a Furminator. That will remove the undercoat that has fallen out but is still in the hair. When looking for a brindle Frenchie, you will most likely come across cheaper offers than the prices detailed above. Make sure to do your research and get your brindle Frenchie from a reputable breeder, and you will have a happy and healthy furry family member for at least a decade.

Our ambition is to breed British Labradors to meet two goals: to be excellent in the field and pleasant in the house. To ensure we are staying at the top of the game we are sending several of our dogs every year back to the UK to compete in Field Trials against the best of the best. Competing under real hunting condition is the only way to make sure our bloodlines continue to carry on the right traits. So far we are the only kennel in the US which produces dogs in the US who compete in the professional field at the highest level in England and Europe. Their outstanding abilities to cover a variety of tasks comes through a careful selection in the breed to choose the one with the WILL to Please. The willingness to work for you and be closer to humans than many other breeds makes the Labrador Retriever the most popular dog. In our kennel, we stick with this tradition along with meticulously selected hunting abilities which are based on being eager to work, drive and style, and the will to please. With Stefanie Latham former breeder of Ragweed's bloodline , the breeder behind the kennel, we have a knowledge of 30 years of breeding, training, and trialing successful Labradors all over Europe including the UK. Beautiful, well socialised, black puppies from field trial championship bloodlines. Coefficient of breeding comes out at 1. No expense spared, socially developed with siblings, mum and our other family pet dog. Very carefully chosen mating. She has a lovely temperament, is very affectionate, loyal, calm, obedient, responsive and most intelligent. Puppies are each demonstrating their own individual characters and have the potential for progressing into many a range of spheres in life. Reared within the family home and central within the everyday routine in the household. Very familiar with regular noises within an active household, receiving much love, attention, interaction, socialisation, cuddles and handling from birth, coming into contact with different people. Each puppy will be: Initial 5 weeks insurance via Kennel Club Regularly wormed to date Micro-chipped Initial vaccination Ready to join you accompanied with a puppy pack designed to avoid disruption to puppies routine and ease the settling in process. Genuine interested parties only. Pedigree Yellow Male From this litter, we expect the pups to be able to go in any direction you want. Shed dogs, Companions, and gun dogs, with good-natured, lovable, and kind personalities. The pups will be around lb when fully grown. We picked our new Companion dog, Sammy up on a Saturday and he quickly made himself part of the family. He is incredibly well mannered, a good listener and seldom gets distracted when out there on our walks. He has plenty of playful energy in the yard and keeps us laughing all day long. Sheryl and the team at Sundance deliver great pets. Here, Heel and Sit are exactly what Sammy does when asked. We could not be happier and I would give stars if I could. Getting Sammy from Sundance was worth every penny. Sheryl has been available to answer questions when they have come up. And has great suggestions and insights. I highly recommend this breeder. Melody Mariani August 31, Sheryl is absolutely wonderful and extremely compassionate! Her Retrievers are beautiful, lovable, and she and her staff work very hard to train them to be the best they can be! I highly recommend Sundance Retrievers! P Hart July 12, Finding a new canine companion, one that has solid temperament and comes from thoughtful breeding, is no easy feat. Sheryl has been super responsive to any and all questions. There are guidance documents and reading lists on the Sundance website to keep expectant new owners busy while their pups are training. This has been very useful while I am waiting to pick up my new boy. I am looking forward to his arrival and am excited to begin the next leg of this journey as he and I together continue to train as a new team. The more I thought about it, the more I decided that I would get two, a brother and sister. I am excited because Sheryl and Scott produce great labs. Are they still pups? Yes but they are also well behaved and socialized pups…. Brian G June 9, Sundance has been awesome to work with throughout this process. The updated journal gives us a lot of feedback of how she is doing. We cant wait to pick up Maya next month. Marte Neumeyer June 1, Sheryl has been an excellent resource while our boy Gibbs finishes his started gun dog training! It's not often you receive consistent and timely responses when working with businesses. Sundance stands out for providing exactly what they promise! We found the website informative and honest. Most importantly we found owner Sheryl Sundean to be knowledgeable, honest, collegial and collaborative in assisting us in selecting the right dog for us. We had the opportunity to visit our puppy Captain at the ranch and have him stay with us in a hotel for a long weekend in Erie. What a great experience! Sheryl provided everything we needed for our weekend adventure. Although Captain's training was not yet complete, his temperament was exactly what we were looking for, he was an absolute joy and very well socialized. He was house trained, crate trained and loved all people and other dogs! Literally EVERYONE who met him at the hotel and there were many remarked on how unbelievably calm and well mannered he was for a six month old lab puppy. We are looking forward to picking up Captain shortly to bring him home and continue training on the foundation that Sheryl and her team have started. We recommend Sundance Retrievers without reservation. They were ready for us when we arrived. Sheryl and her team had a care package packed with everything we needed for the weekend and provided a dog kennel for the weekend. This was above our expectations on what was provided. Ivy was a blast for the weekend. She really bonded with our 12 year old daughter. Lots of snuggling and was sweet interacting with her. We were pleased with her training to date. Ivy was a ball of energy and we believe she will fit well into our family. Heim Outdoors The best dogs you will find! Very healthy and strong dogs! Worth every penny! Brent Earnshaw March 10, Had Roxy for 2 months now. A really sweet nice dog. Sheryl was great and very responsive. I must admit that given the time and money spent I thought it would be easier. These are Kennel kept dogs and much time has been spent potty training her and getting her used to living in a home. As well as obedience training. Roxy is responsive and eager to learn We are almost there. Her walking and sit commands were perfect from day 1. Here command far from good but improving. .I would recommend getting a dog from Sundance but make sure you understand you are still buying a pup and will spend lots of time and effort getting her right. So loving a very quick learner everyone loves her. She goes with me everywhere. Thanks Sheryl. Google rating score: 4.

One or both of this puppy's parents have undergone genetic testing. One or both of this puppy's parents are hip certified. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Wichita Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Wichita? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Wichita? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. She picked out Dennis the day we came to see the puppies. She kept sitting on his foot whenever he held another puppy. She alerts me every morning when he gets up and loves to clean his beard. We can't wait until she is old enough to go through service dog training so she can go everywhere with us! She is the bright spot in our long and rough journey. We thank Timber Creek Goldens for all the love they give their dogs and the new families they help with their puppies. He was easy to train and has the sweetest demeanor. Couldn't have asked for a better experience from Timber Creek! He is one of the only two breeders I will communicate with. Jordan knows his dogs, business, and is very informative. His vet is also pleasant to talk to. I couldn't be happier with the buying process and how he treats not only his dogs, but his customers as well. Finn is beautiful and such a sweetheart. Thank you so much. Matthew Cook;Anchorage, Alaska Short version: these folks are the best, no questions asked. We adopted Marlin, and he is about as perfect as a puppy that anyone could ask for. He is very healthy and has a wonderful temperament. I would say that the bloodline is top notch. Marlin wants nothing other than to just chill with his family. He is so gentle and loyal, when off a leash he rarely goes more than ten feet and always comes right back. He took to our girls, literally, instantly after getting home. He follows them everywhere! He is super snuggly and lovable. Timber Creek has excellent communication and super speedy replies. Every question I asked had an answer instantly, no "uh, let me check" or anything like that. They treat customers as friends, I was at the vet and had a question so I called. Unknowingly, I interrupted them outside with their family yet I still had everything answered. In my opinion; Timber Creek is easily amongst the best breeders around. Just over all friendly and easy to work with. I could not recommend getting a puppy from them enough! In a couple years or so, we plan on getting a second puppy from them! They are rambunctious and playful but also cuddly and sweet and LOVE having their bellies scratched. It is difficult to get a pic of them because they rarely hold still but here they are at 13 weeks today! Thank you, Jordan, for breeding and raising such special pups that have brought our family so much joy and love! Devon Truitt, Arkansas Man, we love this girl. My husband and I brought her home around Halloween and she has been just the best since then. In the past month she has really started to mature and come in to her own. We love her so much! Thank you Timber Creek for this wonderful addition to our family! From helping us make the perfect selection to the final follow up emails making sure everything with Gracie's transition went well. It was an easy, transparent, and seamless process. It's hard to put into words the happiness she has brought into our lives. We can't thank Jordan and his family enough! Dara Dossett, Arkansas I can't thank you guys enough for this sweet angel. Dolly has not had one accident since I got her and she immediately goes potty when we go out. She is the biggest cuddle bug and has adjusted so well! I put her in bed with me last night and she didn't make a peep. I got up at and but that was me waking her up. She went right back to sleep when we came back to bed. Such and incredible blessing. Thank you from the bottom of my heart. Jordan and Victoria are incredible from the first conversation of interest- to flying our baby to California for us! We are so in love with our little lady. She is so calm and curious. They not only have beautiful dogs, but just the loveliest to work with. I highly recommend them!! Thank you guys so much!! From the time I first contacted them about getting a puppy, they've been helpful. The process was smooth from purchasing to having our beautiful little girl shipped to Lexington, Kentucky. They updated me with pictures as she was growing, reaching out to check on her, answering any questions about puppy care I've had, and truly care about the puppies they provide. I have had an exciting experience preparing for Beretta's arrival and was in love with her the moment I picked her up. She's been well taken care of and am thankful for the opportunity to raise her as my own. Tamara Warren, Nevada I chose Timber Creek Golden Retrievers after losing both my male and female Golden's recently because of the dedication to responsible breeding Jordan adheres to. I received my first puppy female in late October and I could not be happier. As a result, I have since reserved another female from an upcoming litter and anxiously await her arrival in late January .I have had Golden Retrievers for most of my life and I must admit that my pup is probably THE most intelligent and yes energetic of any dog I've ever had. Jordan is an absolute delight and is incredibly responsive, patient and informative. As a business owner myself these are qualities that I most admire. He has a client for life and my utmost respect! My lifelong dream was to own and breed show dogs. After testing the waters with different breeds, I fell in love with the Golden Retriever. My brother and his wife got a puppy from Kala Goldens and it was then that I decided that this was the ultimate breed for me. As with a lot of stories, my first Golden did not turn out for show, but after many years I found Karen Brady KaraGold in Florida and bought my Sissy, who easily finished her championship and went on to become my foundation bitch. My husband and I live on an acreage in Goddard, Kansas, just outside of Wichita. We love spending time with our four legged friends. In fact Jim, who is an Equine Veterinarian, would have a hard time unwinding at the end of the day without taking his buddies for a long walk and a swim. We love our home and our family and hope for many more years of showing and breeding Goldens. Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. One that is most outstanding in my mind is that as a breeder I must breed selectively, and breed only for the best! Not only is the Golden Retriever Breed depending on me and other reputable breeders to do this, but so are all the folks hoping for that Best In Show dog, and especially all the families that just want a wonderful pet. So my dream has been fulfilled and I accept the responsibility of doing my absolute best for our beautiful breed. Share 3 Shares Golden Retrievers are superb dogs. With a charming combination of high intelligence, a sweet loving personality, and affectionate nature, that seems to win over the hearts of everyone around. It is no surprise that they are so widely loved in the United States. If you happen to reside in Kansas state or are considering relocating there, a Golden Retriever would be an awesome companion to have with you, as their playful charm and energy would definitely make your experience in the Sunshine State a lot more enjoyable. Before getting a Golden Retriever, one thing must be settled, and that is choosing the right breeder. Picking the right breeder to patronize or work with is quite important as it saves you the emotional and physical stress that comes with an unhealthy, low-quality dog. When it comes to your canine companion, always search for the best. Luckily, this article highlights the best Golden Retriever breeders in Kansas state. These are very reputable breeders producing high-quality, healthy Golden Retrievers with enough care for you, the owner, and the breed. Note: Each breeder on this list was carefully researched and selected. However, it is highly advised that you do your due diligence and research before choosing to work with or patronize them. Dedicating over 20 years of their time to the breeding AKC standard, top-quality, Golden Retrievers with a focus on the temperament and health of the breed. Their breeding program which has been a work in progress for almost 20 years , features a perfect mix of pure American bloodlines and some exotic imported lines with impressive pedigrees. Each breeding parent is health tested, having all the necessary certifications and clearances to ensure that all litters produced are free from any hereditary health condition. Every Golden Retriever pup from Quivira Goldens is home-raised, is well socialized, and equally well trained. This is the reason why most of their Golden Retriever dogs can be found functioning as emotional support dogs or service dogs for law enforcement or veterans. You can also find them in nursing homes and schools. Socialization is done by letting the Golden Retriever pups regularly interact with people of varying age groups. They are also allowed to be around objects of varying textures as well as different experiences and sounds. These are all required when trying to help the dog better settle in with its new family. They are also well checked by a licensed vet, have their deworming records updated, and are properly vaccinated. They are also sold on limited registrations but if you are searching for breeding rights, a few things would be needed. Each Golden Retriever comes with a 2-year health guarantee free from congenital defects that could be life-threatening. Quivira Goldens Contact Details:. We have answers. What class of dog are Golden Retriever puppies for sale near Wichita? Golden Retrievers are a class of sporting dog, and a purebred breed of canine. They were first bred in the 19th century in Scotland and are closely related to the Labrador Retriever. They are strong, active, and highly intelligent. Golden Retrievers are usually very friendly and gentle with people, making them popular as companions, service dogs, and search and rescue dogs. They are also famously talented hunters and excel at various field and show activities. Golden Retrievers are easy to train and excel at obedience, agility, and tracking sports. Are Golden Retriever puppies for sale in Wichita non-shedding? Golden Retrievers are not technically non-shedding, meaning they do lose hair; however, they do require less grooming than other breeds of dogs. The plus side of this is that you won't have to devote as much time to brushing and combing out your Golden Retriever's coat. They do have a tendency to shed, but not excessively, and their coats are usually manageable with regular brushing. If you keep up with regular grooming, you shouldn't have an issue with excessive shedding. What do Wichita Golden Retriever puppies for sale eat? Golden Retrievers are typically very hearty eaters and their diet should be tailored to meet the specific needs of their breed. Proper nutrition for a Golden Retriever includes high quality puppy or adult kibble, supplemented with fresh fruits and vegetables, minerals, and vitamins. Additionally, they may occasionally enjoy cooked meat and fish for a 'special treat'. Feeding them meals that are high in protein helps support their active lifestyle and healthy coat. It is also important to make sure their diet contains enough carbohydrates to fuel their physical and mental development. How do I prepare to adopt Golden Retriever puppies in Wichita? Preparing for a new Golden Retriever should include having the proper supplies, space, tools, training, and a veterinary plan. Walk around your home beforehand and look for potential hazards and make sure these are addressed. Invest in appropriate food and supplies such as bowls, bedding, collars, leashes, toys, and a food dispenser. It is important to give your Golden Retriever enough room to move. Decide whether you'll potty train, crate train, or use a combination of both. Are Golden Retrievers for sale in Wichita considered big dogs? Yes, Golden Retrievers are considered to be a large breed of dog. They can weigh anywhere between 55 to 75 pounds as adults, which places them in the middle to upper range of the size spectrum amongst domestic canine breeds. This broad size range makes them well-suited to many of dog-related activities, such as working, competing in agility and obedience, or being a suitable pet for larger households. Golden Retrievers also tend to have long, muscular bodies and can have thick fur which adds to their overall size. How many minutes per day should I walk Golden Retriever puppies near Wichita? The exact amount of time you should spend walking your Golden Retriever depends on various factors such as their age, fitness level, size, and breed. Generally speaking, it's recommended to walk your Golden Retriever at least twice a day, and each walk should generally last around 20 minutes. That provides around 40 minutes of physical activity in total, but depending on the age and energy level of your dog it may be more or less. Walking not only provides physical activity, but it also provides mental stimulation and socialisation opportunities. Do Golden Retrievers in Wichita make good family dogs? Golden Retrievers are often considered one of the best breeds for families, as they are a great mix of playful and loyal, making them good companions. As intelligent animals, they are easily trainable, so maintaining a good relationship with them should be relatively simple. Furthermore, their often gentle demeanor and loving nature makes them one of the friendliest dog breeds, which is crucial to having a successful family pet. Additionally, they are known for their high energy levels, making them ideal for outdoor activities. Are Wichita Golden Retrievers for sale considered smart dogs? Golden Retrievers are exceptionally smart dogs that are highly trainable and make excellent working dogs. Their intelligence and willingness to learn and please their owners make them the go-to dog for many owner-trainer relationships. They are highly ranked in intelligence tests and show strong problem-solving and communication skills. While they mainly excel at obedience training, some Golden Retrievers can also succeed in agility and scent work, too. These highly sensitive and focused dogs can learn commands and tricks quickly and make perfect companions to any family. Exercise Grooming The Golden Retriever is believed to have originated from the Russian tracker dog which has now gone into extinction. It has its origin from Scotland, United Kingdom and originally bred in Scotland in the midth century. As of then, wildfowl hunting was a quite popular sport amongst the Scottish elite. The retriever breeds as of then were inadequate in retrieving the games from both land and water and as a result, the best water spaniels as at then were crossed with existing retrievers which is how the Golden Retriever came to being. The Golden Retriever is best described as a kind, friendly and confident which is why it makes a really good family pet. It also has an eagerness to always please its family. In addition, it is a very active and fun-loving animal with a well-mannered temperament. This breed is well suited to rural environments and homes that have yards, it can also easily adapt to a cold environment because it possesses a lot of hair. Although it loves the outdoor life, it still remains a family dog that requires regular family interaction. The Golden Retriever can do well both indoor and outdoor if it is properly trained and stimulated. A Golden Retriever requires exercise at least twice a day in order to avoid boredom and hence destructiveness. Golden Retrievers in a working field will require more exercise than non-working Retrievers but on average, the Golden Retriever should be exercised for at least one hour twice a day. This breed requires regular baths and grooming, in order to prevent ear infection, it needs its ears cleaned regularly. With frequent grooming, the amount of hair shed by the Golden Retriever is minimized. However, excess shedding in the Golden Retriever is an indication of an underlying health issue. Our Golden Retriever 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. A healthy male Golden Retriever weighs between 65 to 75 pounds while growing up to 23 to 24 inches tall. A female weighs between 55 to 65pounds and can grow up to .How long does it take a Golden Retriever to reach its full size? For Golden Retrievers, full physical maturity takes one to two years. Once this is attained, its bones become fully grown and can perform the same amount of physical exercise as an adult dog. Do Golden Retrievers smell? Golden Retrievers often smell bad because of its thick water-resistant coat. You can, however, maintain its cleanliness to control its bad odor. How can you keep a Golden Retriever healthy? There are several ways to keep this dog healthy few of which are high-quality food, providing it with plenty of clean and freshwater, developing a good feeding schedule, etc. How many times a day should a Golden Retriever be fed? The required food for a Golden Retriever is dependent on its age, activity level, size and built. Vets recommend about 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food per day for two meals. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? This dog is a sporting breed and therefore requires a whole lot of exercise when fully grown, high-intensity exercise is very beneficial to it. Is it alright to get a Golden Retriever in a hot climate? The Golden Retriever can thrive well in hot climates; all it requires is a shaded and aerated area with lots of water. However, it should not be allowed to exercise too much in the heat. What age can a Golden Retriever Puppy be brought home? A puppy Retriever should not be taken from its mother earlier than when it is 8 weeks old. This is because up until that age, it gets important socialization and learns important skills from its mother and siblings. Should a Golden Retriever be left indoors or outdoors? A Golden Retriever naturally wants to be with its family, if its family is indoor, you will find it right there with them. Does a Golden Retriever bark a lot? The Golden Retriever is not one to bark a lot except in cases of boredom or mental stimulation. Are you interested in purchasing a Golden Retriever? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible. The working ability that has made the Golden Retriever such a useful hunting companion also make him an ideal guide, assistance and search and rescue dog. In addition, it is a very active and fun-loving animal with a well-mannered temperament. The retriever breeds as of then were inadequate in retrieving the games from both land and water and as a result, the best water spaniels as at then were crossed with existing retrievers which is how the Golden Retriever came to being. A Golden Retriever naturally wants to be with its family, if its family is indoor, you will find it right there with them. .AKC registerable golden retriever puppy. His water-repellant double-coat sheds seasonally and needs regular brushing. With hisfriendly temperamentand striking golden color, this breed is both beautiful to look at and a joy to own. A Golden Retriever requires exercise at least twice a day in order to avoid boredom and hence destructiveness. How much exercise does a Golden Retriever need? Goldens love to carry something in their mouths like other retrievers, whether it is a ball, toy, or bone. Both parents weigh about - lbs Very playful lovable and friendly. Want to know some interesting facts about the Golden Retriever, click here! It is a large-sized gun dog used in retrieving shot waterfowl during hunting and shooting parties. The Golden Retriever can do well both indoor and outdoor if it is properly trained and stimulated. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. A recent study from WalletHub analyzed some of the biggest US cities to find the most pet-friendly places for owning a dog. Enter your zip or postal code above to access our up-to-date directory. We look forward to helping you find your next family member. You will fall in love with them the minute you see them. Both mom and dad are on site and great with our kids as well. This breed requires regular baths and grooming, in order to prevent ear infection, it needs its ears cleaned regularly. They are available for reservation. Parents on site. We strive to produce quality puppies for good-looking famil We have an adorable litter of AKC golden retriever pups that are home raised with kids. Photos and contact info on Advertigo website. Seven weeks old will be ready to go home next week!!!! Spayed ready date Aug internet. See How to Find a Dog. Although it loves the outdoor life, it still remains a family dog that requires regular family interaction. This makes them prone to bone disorders, but overall, they are generally healthy. They have an average lifespan of years. Valid for single transaction only. But, no matter which breed you decide to bring into your family, your new pup will find many of its peers across the city. Find Golden Retriever puppies near you at Lancaster Pu. .We love our Goldens! We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. USA We have 2 males and one female left. At CJ's Golden Home, we believe that a home setting is the best way to provide the highest quality of dog breeding and training. Dad is from Champion Blood Lines. To locate a Golden Retriever breeder, enter your 5-digit zip or postal code: See real-time photos and information about the dogs currently in the shelter nearest to you. Males and Female available. The Golden retriever tends to mature slowly and maintains its puppy-like personality even after its grown. Please create a password to set up your PuppySpot account. We have lovely male and female puppies ready for loving homes. We have a litter of Golden Retriever puppies! Their color can vary from light golden to cream to dark golden. Puppies are a very beautiful color and will make great family members. No registration paperspurebred. They will maintain their playful puppy personality well into their third year of age. Without it, they may exhibit behavioral problems. Easy, transparent and safe: healthy and happy Golden Retriever puppies from the best breeders.

April 7, 20 Comments We all love our Frenchies, so the last thing we want to see happen is for them to get sick. Unfortunately, French Bulldogs are synonymous with health issues. Due to their flat-faced structure, hereditary bone conditions, susceptibility to allergies, and a number of other underlying factors, your life as a Frenchie owner can be riddled with visits to the vet. Breathing and heatstroke Due to a short nose and scrunched face, French Bulldogs tend to snort, wheeze, grunt, and snore more than other dogs. This may be something that you find endearing about the breed, but this smaller airway can present a problem if your dog catches a cold or becomes congested. The best remedy is to spray your dog with a cool mist to help reduce their body temperature. Never leave them in the car unattended. Think about buying a kids pool for your home. Eye and ear problems Even though the French Bulldog is one of the healthiest of all the Bulldog breeds, they still experience some of the same health issues. Due to additional exposure to the surrounding environment, yeast infections of the ears are a frequent problem that Frenchies are prone to developing. If they are left untreated, it can result in deafness or other issues. Your vet can perform a hearing test to see if your French Bulldog suffers from this condition. Frenchies also experience quite a number of eye problems. One example is where the eyelashes can become inverted and irritate the eye itself. This condition is known as entropion. The only way to treat this condition is through surgery, otherwise, the dog may suffer from chronic eye infections. Since the French Bulldogs eyes protrude from their face , the eyes can also easily become scratched. This can lead to corneal ulcers and other eye problems. So if you spot excessive blinking or irritation of the eyes, go to your vet! Finally, cataracts in the eyes can develop as your dog ages — just like any dog. This is something that you should watch out for to prevent blindness. Allergies and food sensitivities Unfortunately, French Bulldogs have a genetic predisposition to several environmental allergens. This can result in them having dry and itchy skin. In more severe cases, your dog may develop swollen glands or hives. Buy on Amazon Here Using a hypoallergenic shampoo or one that contains oatmeal can help to relieve some of the discomfort associated with the condition. Or in some cases, your vet can administer a steroid injection to reduce the histamine response to the environmental allergens. As well, your Frenchie may develop food sensitivities. These can be difficult to diagnose since the symptoms are similar to environmental allergies. Some of the more distinguishing features of food sensitivity are that your dog may suffer from extreme flatulence. Heart disease Poor heart health is something you should be aware of if you own a Frenchie. There are two types of heart problems that you need to be concerned about in this breed. Heart murmurs, which can generally be detected during the puppy years, and heart or valve disease. The second type is similar to what people suffer from as they get older. It can be brought on by lack of exercise and poor diet. However, some dogs are more genetically prone to develop heart disease than others. Look for brands of dog food that are lower in sodium so that you can be more proactive in maintaining their overall heart health. Spinal disorders Hemi-vertebrae is a congenital condition that can be seen with the screw-tail breed. It presents as a compression of the spaces between the vertebrae. This compression impedes the messages of the nervous system resulting in some form of paralysis for the dog — in extreme cases of course. Sometimes this condition can show generalized limb weakness or even loss of bowel and bladder control. Another problem that can result from this condition is bulging discs in the back. This usually occurs later in life but will present with the same symptoms as the congenital form. Joint diseases Arthritis can affect Frenchies due to their smaller stature and low center of gravity. It shows similar symptoms that it does in people. If your dog has arthritis they may refuse to move much or be in pain when they do move. There are over the counter treatments that can relieve much of the discomfort. Another joint problem with Frenchies is patellar luxation. This is where the kneecap pops out of place unexpectedly. It can cause your dog to limp or even fall down suddenly. Hip dysplasia is something that you may also observe. This is where the hip joint comes out of the socket and remains stuck. This can cause extreme pain and difficulty getting around. Other french bulldog health issues Due to the scrunched up face appearance, this puts Frenchies at an increased risk of developing problems with the soft palate. Something called cleft palate is extremely common. It is easy to identify because it presents as protruding teeth and gums. There may also be one nostril that is shaped differently than the other one. Secondary cleft palate is more difficult to diagnose. This is where the deformity is inside the mouth. Some of the symptoms include frequent sneezing, excessive snorting even after light exercise, difficulty eating or drinking, and a chronic runny nose. Surgery will be required to repair this condition. More severe cases can result in chronic respiratory infections and malnourishment due to an inability to eat properly. Wrapping up Overall, the French bulldog is a great breed. They tend to do well with other pets and the whole family. But any purebred dog is likely to have health issues. You just need to be aware that Frenchies are more prone to health problems than many other breeds. Maintaining a healthy weight and exercise are some of the best ways to prevent these health problems. Call Vic Kasser or Email! A heart murmur is an abnormal heart sound, usually heard by listening to the heart with a stethoscope. What causes a heart murmur? A heart murmur is caused by turbulent blood flow within the heart. Sometimes a murmur is determined to be 'innocent' or 'physiologic', while other times the murmur is determined to be pathologic or caused by disease. Pathologic heart murmurs can be caused by a structural problem within the heart i. Do all murmurs sound the same? The loudness of a murmur reflects the amount of turbulence that is present in the heart. However, the loudness of a heart murmur does not always correlate directly with the severity of disease. Murmurs are graded by their intensity, usually on a scale of I-VI. A Grade I murmur is very soft or quiet, may only be heard intermittently, and is usually only heard in one location on the chest, while a Grade VI murmur is very loud, heard everywhere that the heart can be heard, and can be felt when a person places their hand on the chest in the area of the heart in cardiac terminology, this is called a 'thrill'. Murmurs are also characterized by the time in which they occur during the heart cycle, and by whether they are long or short. Most murmurs are also characterized by their location, or where they are the loudest. The majority of murmurs in the dog occur during systole, the phase of the heart cycle when the heart is contracting to pump blood out. The specific characteristics of the murmur, along with any symptoms that your dog might be showing, will help your veterinarian to determine what is causing the murmur. What is an innocent, physiologic or Puppy heart murmur? An innocent or physiologic or Puppy heart murmur is a heart murmur that has no impact on the dog's health. It is very common for young puppies, especially large breed puppies, to develop an innocent heart murmur while they are growing rapidly. The murmur may first appear at weeks of age, and a puppy with an innocent heart murmur will usually outgrow it by about months of age. This type of murmur is benign. In general, a physiologic or innocent heart murmur will have a low intensity usually Grade I-II out of VI , and does not cause any symptoms or clinical signs. What structural heart problems cause a heart murmur? The heart is composed of four chambers - the left atrium, the left ventricle, the right atrium, and the right ventricle. Blood flows from the right side of the heart through the pulmonary artery to the lungs where it is oxygenated, and then the oxygenated blood goes through the left side of the heart and into the aorta, where it is pumped to the rest of the body. Between each of the chambers and main blood vessels there is a valve that functions to prevent blood flowing back into the chamber as the heart pumps. With structural heart disease, there is some sort of abnormal structure or defect that is disturbing the flow of blood, creating turbulence. The abnormality in the heart may be a leaky heart valve, a thickening or narrowing of a valve or large blood vessel, or an abnormal hole between the heart chambers or between two arteries that are not normally connected. Structural heart problems may be congenital the dog is born with a defective heart or acquired a structural heart problem develops later in life. Some of the congenital heart diseases in dogs are hereditary in certain breeds of dogs, and include diseases such as 'sub-aortic stenosis', 'pulmonic stenosis', and 'patent ductus arteriosis'. Other congenital heart diseases are not as well documented as being hereditary, including 'ventricular septal defects', 'atrial septal defects' and 'Tetralogy of Fallot'. The most common cause of an acquired heart murmur in the dog is 'mitral insufficiency' also called 'mitral regurgitation' , a condition in which the mitral valve becomes thickened and begins leaking see our handout 'Mitral Valve Disease in Dogs' - mitral insufficiency tends to be more common in small breed dogs. Other causes of an acquired heart murmur in older dogs include bacterial endocarditis, caused by a bacterial infection that localizes on a heart valve and dilated cardiomyopathy see our handouts 'Endocarditis in Dogs' and 'Dilated Cardiomyopathy in Dogs'. What extracardiac problems cause a heart murmur? Some extracardiac problems can cause what is called a 'functional heart murmur'. A functional heart murmur may be due to anemia low levels of red blood cells , hypoproteinemia low protein levels in the blood , fever or infection, or by conditions such as pregnancy, obesity or emaciation. With anemia or hypoproteinemia, the blood is too 'watery' so turbulence is created as it flows through the valves. Adult dogs may become anemic because of blood loss or may have a serious underlying disorder. How is a heart murmur detected? In most cases, a heart murmur is detected when your veterinarian auscultates or examines your dog's heart with a stethoscope. How do we find out if a murmur is due to a significant problem? Most murmurs are detected with a stethoscope during a routine veterinary examination. If your veterinarian detects a heart murmur, you will be asked a series of questions about your dog's health and then your veterinarian will assess your dog's general physical condition to determine whether or not there are any symptoms or clinical signs that indicate the need for further diagnostic testing. If your pet is still a young puppy and the murmur is of low intensity, your veterinarian may recommend a re-examination in a few weeks time to track whether the murmur has decreased in intensity or disappeared, indicating that it was likely an innocent murmur. Similarly, if your adult dog appears to be extremely stressed at the time of a routine health examination and the murmur is of low intensity, your veterinarian may recommend a re-evaluation at a later time when the dog is calmer. In some cases, if a dog is extremely excited or is panting heavily, it can be difficult to determine if abnormal sounds are being caused by a heart murmur or are just related to the elevated heart rate or panting. A dog with a heart murmur that is caused by a structural heart disease or an extracardiac problem will generally have some sort of symptoms or clinical signs that can be attributed to the disease. During a physical examination, if your veterinarian detects an abnormal rhythm to the heartbeat, or finds that your dog has weak pulses or irregular pulses, it will be more likely that the murmur is caused by an underlying problem. If your veterinarian determines or suspects that the heart murmur is caused by structural heart disease or an extracardiac problem, further diagnostic testing will be recommended. In the majority of these cases, further diagnostic testing should be performed immediately so that any treatment can be started as soon as possible. What other tests may be recommended? Depending on what other clinical signs are present in your dog, your veterinarian will usually recommend x-rays, an electrocardiogram, or an ultrasound examination of the heart called an echocardiogram. If your veterinarian suspects that the heart murmur is secondary to another disease, blood tests or other extensive tests might be recommended. An echocardiogram that includes a Doppler examination is the most useful test to determine the location of a heart murmur. With an echocardiogram, the heart is imaged while it is beating, allowing the examiner to evaluate the heart's size and movement. A Doppler examination is a specialized type of echocardiogram in which the speed and direction of blood flow can be measured across the heart valves and in the heart chambers. The Doppler examination will usually pinpoint the location of the turbulence that is causing the murmur. How is a heart murmur treated? Heart murmurs are simply abnormal heart sounds caused by turbulent blood flow, and treatment depends upon the underlying cause of the heart murmur or the turbulent blood flow. Physiologic heart murmurs do not require any treatment; however, regular monitoring of a dog that has evidence of a physiologic murmur is advised to ensure that no other problems develop. If the heart murmur is caused by an underlying problem, the treatment plan will be based on the diagnosis, and may include a combination of specialized diets, medications and supportive care. Some congenital heart defects can be surgically corrected - these include pulmonic stenosis and patent ductus arteriosus. Your veterinarian will be the best person to advise you on the appropriate course of action to meet your dog's unique needs. What is the prognosis? The prognosis ranges from excellent to grave, depending on the cause of the murmur. If the murmur is physiologic, no treatment is required and the prognosis is generally good to excellent. If the murmur is caused by extracardiac disease or a functional problem that can be treated, the murmur may resolve over time. The long-term prognosis for a dog with a murmur caused by congenital heart disease is extremely variable, depending on the specific type of defect that is present; if the defect can be surgically corrected the prognosis is very good. A dog with mitral insufficiency can usually be managed with long-term medications. The prognosis for a dog with dilated cardiomyopathy varies - if the dog is showing symptoms of heart failure the prognosis will be grave. The prognosis for a dog with bacterial endocarditis will vary with the severity of the infection and the valve that is affected. The need for good dental care, including regular professional dental cleaning under general anesthesia cannot be overemphasized as a means of preventing endocarditis see our handout "Dental Disease in Dogs". Since each case is different, your veterinarian will discuss the prognosis and treatment options for your dog, based on the results of diagnostic testing. In all cases, ongoing monitoring and periodic diagnostic testing will be necessary to track the progress of the condition. Heart disease in companion animals is too often a silent killer. By the time your dog or cat shows the classic signs of heart disease like lethargy, wheezing, croupy coughing a liquid-sounding cough, as though there's fluid in the lungs or exercise intolerance, it's very often too late to save your beloved pet. To make matters worse, an enlarged heart can't be detected with a stethoscope. Significant heart disease can be present and undiagnosed by your veterinarian long before your pet shows clinical symptoms of illness. Too many pet owners too often find themselves in this heartbreaking situation. Two Types of Heart Disease Both dogs and cats are at risk for heart disease, and both can develop either type: Heart muscle disease Valvular disease Cardiomyopathy is the scientific term for an enlarged heart muscle. Some breeds of dogs are predisposed to the condition, including New Foundlands, Great Danes and Dobermans. Cardiomyopathy can also be caused by a dietary deficiency. The amino acids taurine and carnitine are critical for normal heart development and performance. If your dog's or cat's diet is lacking in these amino acids, heart muscle damage can result. Poor valve health can also lead to heart disease. A leaky valve makes your pet's heart work harder, and the harder it works, the bigger it gets. Valve disease leads to congestive heart failure in both dogs and cats. Heart murmurs which are usually present when there are valve problems are ranked on a scale from 1 to 6, where 1 is considered mild and 6 is the worst case. Leaky valves or heart murmurs are frequently seen in predisposed breeds like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel. Leaky valves are also found in aging pets and animals with some metabolic conditions like feline hyperthyroidism. These tests, usually x-rays, EKG or cardiac ultrasound, can cost several hundred dollars. For many pet owners who want to be proactive in detecting heart disease in a dog or cat, the expense of these tests is prohibitive. It's a terrible situation to be in. If you've lost a dog or cat to heart disease, you're bound to be fearful it could happen again to another pet. You want to take proactive steps to help your current dearly loved dog or cat avoid the problem, but you can't afford the tests that will tell you whether or not you need to do more to insure the health of your companion animal. It feels as if you have no choice but to wait to see if heart disease sneaks up silently to claim another four-legged member of your family. That is, until now. At long last, veterinary medicine has developed a blood test that can identify which dogs and cats are at greatest risk for heart disease and heart failure. The test is called a proBNP test. The proBNP is a blood test that measures how much peptide hormone, released by the heart, is in circulation in your pet's body. This hormone is only released when the heart is pushed beyond its capacity. Very early in the disease process, small amounts of the hormone will be released into your dog's or cat's bloodstream, and it's presence is a signal that steps must be taken in order to preserve your pet's heart health. If heart pathology continues to progress, the blood value of the peptide hormone will continue to rise. The proBNP blood test can give you peace of mind that your pet has no early signs of heart disease. It can also help you and your veterinarian differentiate between, for example, a respiratory condition like feline asthma and an underlying heart condition. The proBNP is a simple blood test with a fast turn-around time that can provide the information you need to proactively manage your dog's or cat's heart health. You can have the test repeated as often as necessary to chart your progress in meeting your pet's cardiovascular health needs throughout his life. Make sure you're meeting your pet's CoQ10 requirement. CoQ10 is a naturally occurring coenzyme that young dogs and cats have in plentiful supply. But as she ages, your pet's ability to produce CoQ10 decreases. I recommend you supplement your pet's amino-acid-rich diet with Coenzyme Q10, especially if you have an animal that is predisposed to cardiovascular disease. Supplying your pet with extra CoQ10 can insure she has the quantity her body needs to maintain a healthy heart muscle. CoQ10 supplements come in two forms: Ubiquinone and Ubiqunol. Ubiquinol is a reduced form of CoQ10 and is the supplement I recommend for my dog and cat patients. A good heart-healthy maintenance dose is: 50 mg per day for cats and small dogs mg per day for medium sized dogs mg twice per day for large dogs. Eating non-food items such as grass or human food. Bacterial and viral infections. Irritable bowel syndrome IBS. Bowel cancer more common in older Frenchies. Aggression — 2. As puppies, they can be more aggressive, but most will grow out of this particular health concern by around 12 months. Aggression is a natural attribute, with many Frenchies displaying it when they feel threatened, jealous, or provoked. However, at certain times their ancestry and genes can come to the fore, with some displaying aggressive characteristics which can become problematic. The best way to head this off at the pass is to ensure that your male Frenchie is neutered when the time comes and has proper puppy training. Heart murmur — 2. However, with older dogs, a heart murmur can be a very serious health problem and can lead to a reduced life expectancy. The most common reasons for a heart murmur to develop in a French Bulldog can include: Weakened heart muscle walls dilated cardiomyopathy. Heart wall defects. Heartworm disease. Infection in the heart valves endocarditis. There are varying grades of seriousness with dog heart murmurs, all of which a vet can detect using a stethoscope. Grade 1: This is a very soft and quiet murmur that is almost undetectable. Grade 2: This is a soft murmur that can be easily heard by a vet. Grade 3: This is a low to moderate noise. Grade 4: This is a moderate to loud noise. Grade 6: This can be heard without listening directly on the chest wall. Grades 1 and 2 offer no concerns, and your Frenchie should lead a full and long life. Grade 3 will require your Frenchie having a heart scan, letting your vet then recommend a medical treatment. If the heart murmur is graded on the higher end of the scale, your Frenchie will have a reduce life expectancy. Heart murmurs are common in Frenchie puppies. In adult dogs it can be more serious. You can read more about how heart murmurs can impact on pet insurance here. Vomiting — 2. I lost count of how many times Claude used to vomit as a puppy. If your Frenchie is vomiting a lot, it should not be taken lightly. To summarise on that though, here are some reasons why your French Bulldog will vomit: Food allergies. The swallowing of a foreign body. Eating and drinking too quickly. Oesophageal issues and disorders. Vomiting is very common with French Bulldogs, and most of the time is nothing to be worried about. I would exercise caution though; if your dog is vomiting frequently and appears to be distressed and in pain, take him to the vets immediately. Infectious canine tracheobronchitis kennel cough — 2. It is highly contagious but will often be a mild illness that can be treated and cured in under a month with the use of antibiotics or prevented with a vaccination. This is one to look out for if you are leaving your Frenchie in kennels for any period of time, or if your dog lives and plays in close proximity to other dogs. Patellar luxation dislocated kneecap — 2. Our French Bulldog is a complete clown and has no sense of danger. Patellar luxation can occur in Frenchies where: They have degenerative arthritis. They have a genetic malformation. They have suffered a traumatic injury to the knee. If you see your Frenchie holding his hind legs up that could be a sign of a dislocated kneecap. He will do this so that the muscles in his hind legs relax, as that can then let the dislocated kneecap return to its usual position. Ulcerative keratitis eye ulcer — 2. By Dr. I hope you can respond quickly since the possible purchase of a puppy is involved. I recently contracted with a breeder to purchase a French bulldog puppy and I just received a call that the puppy has a Grade 2 heart murmur, as detected by their vet. The pup is 7 weeks old and is the only pup out of a litter of five with the problem. I was also informed that there was a good chance the murmur would resolve, so I was hoping you might share your opinion on whether I should go ahead with buying this pup. I also read about a test called a pro BNP and wonder if that might be helpful. Clearly, I want to bring home a healthy puppy. What is the likelihood that this murmur will go away? If I get this dog, will it have a normal, healthy lifespan? It is commendable that the breeder informed you of this cardiac issue now before you bring the puppy home and get attached, which you still might do. Heart murmurs are graded on a scale of and a Grade 2 murmur is a soft-sounding low grade one. In puppies, this can sometimes be called an innocent murmur, which is not serious and may resolve with time, usually by the age of 4 months. If it does, it has no consequence on the health or longevity of the dog. However, there is no guarantee that this will occur. Murmurs can come in different types and be heard at different times in the cycle of cardiac contractility and relaxation. They can also be caused by many different anomalies, some congenital and others that develop over time. The pro-BNP test that you mention measures the amount of stretching of cardiac muscle and typically is used in mature dogs with more advanced changes in the heart, so it might not have relevance in this case other than providing a baseline and allowing it to be monitored over time. You might ask for an EKG, echocardiogram, cardiac ultrasound or a cardiologist to further assess the dog. You could ask the breeder to keep the dog for a few months to see if the murmur goes away or you might roll the dice and take the dog home, but know that there are no sure ways of knowing that all will work out. If things do not resolve or worsen, you will be attached to a sweet dog with potentially costly health issues. Only you know what you are willing to gamble. Good luck with your decision. Consult with your Vet should two or more symptoms be present. Accurate diagnoses are possible by using x-rays or ultrasound, where the presence of cardiomyopathy in the pedigree is unknown. Drugs to help the heart are available and may prolong life. They are usually administered at the same time as drugs that treat water retention. Low salt diets are recommended and your Vet may suggest that you switch from your regular brand of dogfood. This is because salt increases fluid retention, already a problem when the heart is not working properly. Your dog should not be allowed to be overweight when he presents with cardiomyopathy — although most dogs with hereditary cardiomyopathy tend to be skinny. Exercise needs to be monitored, as your dog needs to be fit, but not to over-exert himself. Cardiomyopathy is occasionally associated with other conditions or disorders, like hypothyroidism. Diseases like parvovirus may sometimes weaken the heart, creating conditions suitable for heart disease to develop. Heartworm , is now also of concern. Dilated cardiomyopathy is one of the most common heart diseases in adult dogs. Large breeds are most commonly affected, with three-quarters of the affected dogs being male. Affected females have a markedly lower survival rate than affected males. Survival statistics are poor. Heart Murmurs A murmur can usually be heard when the puppy is 10 weeks old — although it can be picked up earlier by a very experienced Vet, this is very difficult as the puppy has a very fast heart rate, fidgets and sniffs. It is not easy for a Vet to determine the difference between a puppy murmur and a congenital heart defect murmur by listening with a stethoscope auscultation. The blood thus flows forwards AND squirts backwards with every heartbeat. ECGs and X-rays may be needed to definitively diagnose a heart murmur, and to determine what type of murmur it may be. It is defined as an "obstruction of the left ventricular outflow tract that ranges in severity from an incomplete fibrous ridge to a fibromuscular tunnel", and lies just under the aortic valve. This lesion causes turbulence in the blood as it crosses the aortic valve, and creates a murmur in most affected dogs. The subaortic lesion progresses with maturity. Heart murmurs can be detected as early as six to eight weeks of age, or develop as late as three to four years of age in milder cases. Most of the information available on SAS, including inheritance of the defect, has come from breeding studies done on Newfoundland dogs. Information from this breed is identical to the clinical features observed in other SAS affected breeds, such as Rottweilers and Golden Retrievers. The mode of transmission found in the Newfoundland dog breeding studies suggests an autosomal dominant gene trait with variable expression or penetrance is responsible, with the variability probably due to modifying gene factors. This makes the true mode of inheritance complicated, presenting a challenging problem in removing the defect from the dog population. Regardless of the degree of severity observed, any affected SAS animal can produce a degree of severity in its offspring because of the dominant genetics of the disease. Subaortic stenosis has been graded based on post-mortem exam: Grade 1 is the mildest form, with raised white nodules occurring in the area under the aortic valve; Grade 2 is the intermediate form, with a fibrous ridge that partially encircles the outflow tract; Grade 3 is the most severe form, with a fibrous band encircling the entire outflow tract just under the aortic valve, and may also cause changes in the mitral valve complex. The mildest lesions create the most frustrating problem for breeders. In studies performed on Newfoundlands, it was found that ausculation stethosope exam , cardiac catheterization, and echocardiography ultrasound , the most technologically advanced methods to detect and define heart murmurs, failed to reliably detect some, if not most, of the mildly affected dogs, as determined by post-mortem exam. The Grade 2 lesions are often associated with soft cardiac murmurs and minimal changes in the pressure gradient across the aortic valve. The Grade 3 lesions are usually associated with the more severe clinical signs, including moderate to severe murmurs, exercise intolerance, syncope fainting , congestive heart failure, and sudden death. The importance of this clinical data is clear - while the genetic makeup for SAS may be present in a dog, the actual detection of subaortic stenosis becomes difficult in mild cases, with definitive diagnosis of the carrier depending on post-mortem exams. This makes genetic counselling for this genetic trait difficult and leaves breeders frustrated. Treatment for SAS can be frustrating. Mild Cases:Therapy is usually not indicated in mild cases, as affected dogs are usually asymptomatic and can live a full and productive life. The only exception requires the use of prophylactic antibiotics for potential bacterial problems; such as dental procedures, surgery, and wounds; due to the risk of the dog developing endocarditis bacterial colonization of the heart valves , which may damage the heart valves. Moderate to severe cases: For moderate to severe cases, treatment is limited to drugs aimed at decreasing the clinical symptoms, such as those associated with congestive heart failure. However, the benefits of such drug-oriented treatment are minimal. Many moderate to severely affected dogs may develop acute heart arrhythmias as a result of heart muscle ischemia and sudden death. It is thus perhaps better to use a holistic approach based on nutrition, moderate exercise, a wellness-oriented lifestyle and dollops of affection. How can breeders decrease the incidence of subaortic stenosis? Firstly, the limitations of current diagnostics in recognizing mildly affected dogs must be recognised. It is also known that many affected animals shall be identified in a comprehensive program of screening. A carefully planned program of screening - and definitively diagnosing heart murmurs, along with genetic counseling - could reduce the incidence of the defect within a few generations. This includes screening all breeding stock, then carefully screening all progeny for the defect and eliminating parents which have produced affected offspring. A Conservative Program to Screen Dogs for Discrete Subaortic Stenosis see reference1 Most, but not all, discrete subaortic lesions will produce a murmur, and it is reasonable to use ausculation stethoscope examination as the main screening method. Some very mildly affected defects will go undetected, but neither are these likely to be detected by ultrasound or catheterization. Because the lesion develops postnatally, screening should not be begun until weeks of age. Pups with murmurs should be examined by more definitive methods, as needed, to make a diagnosis. Moderate to severe subaortic stenosis can be diagnosed by this age. Pups with mild lesions may not be distinguishable from those with innocent flow murmurs. Pups with low grade murmurs and no other evidence of heart disease should be re-examined at weeks of age. If the murmur disappears, the pup can be considered clear of clinically significant congenital heart disease. However, if there are close relatives with subaortic stenosis, it is prudent not to use such animals for breeding stock or use them only if their offspring are carefully screened for congenital heart disease. Discontinue breeding such dogs if they produce pups with confirmed subaortic stenosis. Pups with a low grade murmur that persists beyond 12 weeks should be re-examined by more definitive methods to make an accurate diagnosis. If echocardiography ultrasound or cardiac catheterization and angiocardiography are used, it should be possible to reduce the number of false positives. Pups that have a persistent murmur consistent with subaortic stenosis, but have no evidence of a congenital heart defect after further studies can be considered clear of a clinically significant lesion, but a very mild lesion cannot be ruled out. Such animals should not be used for breeding unless there are other compelling reasons for it. If bred, the offspring of such dogs should be carefully screened for evidence of congenital heart disease and breeding discontinued if any affected pups are produced. References: 1. Genes and the Heart: Congenital Heart Disease. Donald F. Linda B. Lehmkuhl and John B. Orthopedic Foundation for Animals, .How do you care for a congenital heart problem? How do you know when to go beyond your regular veterinarian and consult a cardiologist about a more serious condition such as a heart murmur? What Causes a Heart Murmur? Pathologic murmurs, the ones caused by disease, indicate a structural problem in the heart. That means there is a problem with the heart — or a problem caused elsewhere in the body that affects the heart. Your family vet will listen with a stethoscope and use certain parameters to determine whether the murmur is innocent or pathologic: how loud the murmur is, where the murmur is located and how the murmur sounds. The answers to these questions will help determine whether you should take your puppy to a veterinary cardiologist or postpone that decision until its next appointment. For example, a quiet heart murmur that occurs when the heart contracts a systolic murmur will more likely be innocent than a louder murmur, which warrants sooner investigation. If the puppy has difficulty breathing or has a fainting spell, take your pet to the emergency room for quick evaluation. Certain breeds of dogs are predisposed to congenital heart defects. Congenital heart defects mean a heart defect that a puppy was born with. These include miniature poodles, bulldogs both English and French , Labrador retrievers, Newfoundlands, bull terriers, and golden retrievers. There are many more breeds that can be affected and not all puppies of these breeds will have a problem. Ask if the parents have heart murmurs or have produced puppies in the past that had heart murmurs. Heart defects in puppies commonly take one of three forms: a patent ductus arteriosus PDA , pulmonic stenosis, and a ventricular septal defect VSD. A PDA creates abnormal communication between two major blood vessels, the aorta and pulmonary artery. Normally, these two vessels communicate in the womb, and that communication closes after birth. Pulmonic stenosis is a condition in which the valve on the right side of the heart going out to the lungs pulmonic valve did not develop appropriately. For some levels of this condition, surgery can help. In fact, nonsurgical Intervention could be the way to go with some murmurs. That may mean long-term medication or even just serial monitoring over time. Think of CARE is the animal equivalent of a human medical center offering many different types of treatment for pets. You can get emergency care 24 hours a day, days a year, or board-certified specialty care after you obtain a referral from your primary veterinarian. 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Post header Skip post header How much exercise does a Labradoodle need? Affectionate, sociable, intelligent, and a lover of water, are just a few ways you could describe a Labradoodle. Their loveable traits are what make them a pawfect family dog, and with an eagerness to please, first time owners should definitely have a look at these guys. The combination of a Labrador and Poodle means Labradoodles are often easier to train than a lot of other breeds. How much exercise does an adult Labradoodle need? Whether you decide to do long walks or short walks, Labradoodles need at least 60 minutes of exercise a day. Although these dogs love their walkies, playing around the house also counts as exercise, so be sure to consider this when planning the routine for the day. How much exercise does a Labradoodle puppy need? Exercising your newborn adventurer can raise many questions, as too much activity can cause bone and joint issues further down the line for any breed. Luckily, you can use the free PitPat app to see exactly how much exercise your furry friend should be getting. How much exercise does a senior Labradoodle need? Once your pooch hits 8 years of age they can be considered a senior. If you do start to notice changes when walking, let your dog set the pace. Luckily, we got you. Which types of exercise are best for Labradoodles? So why not factor in their love for leaping into training? Setting out courses that involve hurdles, weaving, and tunnels is a great way to kick their brains into action whilst also getting some command training done. Obedience — Thanks to their low dander coats and eagerness to please, Labradoodles are a top choice for obedience trials. But swimming is a great exercise for these highly capable pups. Plus, because PitPat is completely waterproof, you can track all that doggy paddle too. You might also like: Single page Single page Top 10 most popular crossbreed dogs Crossbreed dogs are fast overtaking traditional breeds in popularity as dog owners seek out the pawfect companion for them. So which crossbreeds are the most popular pooches on the block? Single page Single page Taking your dog swimming: what you need to know Swimming is a fantastic exercise for your dog. POV: You are walking my Labradoodle Max wearing his usual harness Although puppies grow quickly in the first year, you must recognize their limitations to daily exercise. In addition, large breed dogs, like Labradoodles, can be challenging since many owners may believe big dogs can handle considerable distances. On the contrary, before your Labradoodle is fully grown, you should recognize some limits to their physical activity. Overexertion can cause damage to their developing skeletal system, tendons, ligaments, and joints. In addition, too much strenuous activity can hurt your animal and create growth plate problems. Many issues from overexercising are not noticeable until much later, when they pose more severe problems. Regular exercise is essential for their health, but remember to be aware of how much activity your Labradoodle gets each day. You want to also take into consideration time spent running around your home and yard. Labradoodles can be excellent walking or running partners well into their senior years, with some considerations. By following this guide, you can give your pet the physical activity they need to remain healthy and happy without worrying about causing problems for them later. As a general rule, puppies should exercise approximately five minutes for every month of age they are. For example, a six-month-old Labradoodle should be getting 30 minutes of exercise per day. You can break this up into two shorter minute walks. An adult Labradoodle should be getting anywhere between one to two hours of exercise each day. Depending on your lifestyle and schedule, this could be during two separate times each day or more. From running around with their littermates to playing with you on the floor, these youngsters are notorious for running around one minute and sleeping the next. Remember that puppies are like babies. They are maturing and need enough rest to help their muscles and body mature properly. Keep in mind the five-minute rule for their age, and you are sure not to overexert them. You do not want to take your new puppy out in public places until they have their vaccinations. Otherwise, you may risk your new pet picking up an illness. Alternatively, your pet may be learning how to play fetch or chase toys in their environment. Try to observe how often your Labradoodle gets the zoomies , and you may have to adjust their exercise regime accordingly. For example, these big outbursts of energy may indicate that they are not expelling enough energy and need more walks or playtime. Australian Labradoodles are a different breed the Labradoodles although similar! Many Labradoodles will continue to grow , albeit slower, until they are 18 months old. Your pet should be walking correctly on a leash and learning manners outside the home during this time. Of course, your year-old pet will be able to take on significantly longer walks than when it was only four months old, but it is a vital element to build up its stamina. Do not take your Labradoodle out once they turn 18 months old, expecting them to run five miles with you every morning either. Just like humans, your dog will need to build up to longer distances slowly. Otherwise, you risk hurting them or causing damage to their joints or tissues. Once you have a fully grown Labradoodle, you can slowly build up their endurance for long walks or hiking alongside you on the weekends. Of course, your dog will love to accompany you on your regular outings as long as you prepare them correctly. Adult Labradoodles with a regular exercise routine can walk and run up to 20 miles at a time or more. Naturally, this distance will not be the norm for some dogs, and some factors may hinder lengthy walks. Some reasons your Labradoodle may need shorter walking distances include: Recovering from an injury, illness, or surgery Extreme outdoor temperatures Severely unstable or uncomfortable surfaces, such as sharp gravel or rock paths Physical composition inherited from the parents Weight problems, including obesity or malnourishment Low energy levels It is critical to keep in mind that even if your Labradoodle usually handles long distances well, there could be days where they give you cues to take it easy. Excessive panting , looking lethargic, trying to sit down often, or refusing to move during a walk can all indicate that your Labradoodle is having problems. Stop immediately and take note of anything that could be bothering your pet. You do not want to force your dog to walk if it is in pain or having an issue. Senior Labradoodles may not be as willing to walk long distances as they age. So try to remember that even if your pet followed alongside you for hours when they were younger, they might need shorter outings in their senior years. Can Labradoodles smile? They will happily tag along with you on all your outdoor journeys. There are ways to ensure that your pet will be safe and happy while you both tackle long distances together. Bring Water Remember to bring a portable water dish along for your pet, especially if your walks do not take them to a place where they can have a quick drink. Hydration is essential to lubricate their joints during exercise, especially during warmer temperatures. Slowly Increase the Distance Do not attempt to jump into walking long distances with your dog without some training beforehand. This slow progression will help your dog adjust to the long walk without stressing its joints and tissues. Bring Treats Just as you may require additional calories during your hikes, your Labradoodle will also need more calories during long walks. Try packing a small bag of extra kibble pieces or a few treats as an incentive to have good manners while on a long walk. For example, it will be more difficult for your Labradoodle to adjust to long walks if they do not go out with you often. Cold, wet weather may require them to wear a sweater or jacket. If you live in an area that sees extreme temperatures with snow or ice, protective booties are a must to keep their footpads safe. Remember Their Rest Allow your Labradoodle to rest adequately after a long walk. Their body will need time to recover, just as humans do after exercise. This way, your dog can come along with you on many long distances in the future. 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. The Labradoodle is one of the most popular doodles and makes a great addition to any family. My Labradoodle Max is a bundle of joy and excitement. It is essential to teach your doodle restraint without breaking its spirit. Easier said than done, I agree, but this is a breed that is easy to train. The bonus- they are intelligent and eager to please. The Labradoodle is a boisterous pet and requires some daily physical activity to help it expend energy. Walking is a great way to build its strength and help it socialize with other animals and people. It can calm an over excited Labradoodle and even help stop a Labradoodle that likes to chase your cat. Exercising your Labradoodle is part and parcel of taking good care of it. Remember that this is a breed with boundless energy. So, the more you exercise them, the less likely they are to be bored or destructive Your Labradoodle should be made to follow a schedule from the beginning. Labradoodle puppies are very energetic and need minutes of activity daily. This will, to some extent, help in exerting their energy. For a LabradoodleYou can combine minutes of walk with 10 minutes of a fun game of catch twice a day to help burn up their pent up energy. A daily walk is also an excellent way to bond with your pup. Remember to consider the age of your pet while deciding on an exercise routine. Compared to a puppy, a young adult will need more vigorous exercise. An older dog may not have the stamina for long excursions. Ten minutes of walk or a quick game of fetch should be more than enough for such older dogs. Anything more will tire them. In other words, if not a planned exercise schedule, ensure that they have plenty of time for physical activity throughout the day like running around the yard with the kids, swimming, playing fetch, etc. As with humans, your Labradoodle will also show signs of a sedentary lifestyle: The most obvious is an increase in weight, especially if it has been coupled with a poor diet. An overweight pet is at the risk of several conditions that can affect its health, including joint problems, back problems, and heart and lungs issues. If your dog is overweight , you may have to consult a vet for appropriate exercises to help it lose weight. Lack of exercise will also make your pet restless since it is unable to exhaust the pent-up energy. Barking continuously for no reason or destroying things around the house are signs of restlessness brought on by lack of exercise. If muscles are not exercised enough, they lose their strength, leading to stiffness and movement difficulty. Dogs with low physical activity have been known to suffer from diabetes. Other factors, like diet and energy levels, also play a part. You can, however, follow some general guidelines: Puppies between 10 weeks to 5 months can safely do a minute light walking. Puppies are not very strong yet, so make sure there is no strain on their legs. The walk is to get them used to it and build up their stamina. Bigger puppies between 4 and 8 months could do up to 30 minutes of daily walking and intermittent sprinting, followed by a few minutes of rest. Between 8 and 12 months, your pup has developed more endurance and stamina and can walk for up to minute once daily. You may follow it up with a short walk towards the end of the day or before bedtime. Adults Labradoodles are those between 12 to 18 months and are fully grown. They are strong enough and will enjoy at least an hour of medium-paced walking each day. Some may prefer a bit more or a bit less, but that should not cause worry. Older dogs will typically have less energy than they had when they were younger. But it is still important to keep them physically active daily. These can be shorter strolls or a walk on the beach or in a park. Not only will it keep them fit, but it will also help relieve any age-related stiffness. After they are trained, the walks can be off the leash. Labradoodles are very sociable and enjoy meeting with other dogs and humans as well. A ball or frisbee can be an excellent outdoor toy to train your Labradoodle to stay fit and focused. Keep their walking routine interesting. Change your route every other week if possible to allow your pet to experience new scenes and unique scents. Instead, early mornings or late evenings after sunset are good times to walk your pet, especially during hot summers. It also pays to keep a bottle of water handy for your pet. Hypothermia can happen to pets too. Play indoor games when it is freezing outside. Keep your doodles warm and make sure they are well fed since winters tend to make them hungry, just like it does to us, humans. The walk can wait for a few days until your pet is back on its feet again. Play a fast game of fetch. This can be done in your backyard or open ground. A quick game of ball in the garden will also help give it an oxygen boost. Playing indoor dog games and activities. This is perfect for slightly grown-up puppies. They will enjoy chasing a ball down the hall and bringing it back to you for more. A puzzle toy filled with his favorite dog food is an excellent option for any size or breed. This game can be scheduled during his snack time. Make sure that the puppy does not choke on its chow. In times of excitement, a dog can choke in its food! You can freeze a stuffed Kong for example and it will distract and exercise your Labradoodle for a surprising amount of time! Quick training sessions with a series of sit-downs, stays, or whatever else your pet has learned can challenge its thinking, reinforce good behavior, and its instructions following capacity. You can also try teaching them something new. This is a very intelligent breed. If your Labradoodle loves to follow you around, walk all over the house and let them follow you. Do it a few times, and you will see that your pet now knows where you are going next. You can also play hide and seek while doing this. Hide some treats throughout the house while playing hide-and-seek, and let your dog find them. This helps them discover and learn new things. This is essentially housework or scent training. Try a simple nosework game like the muffin tin game for dogs. If your dog understands instructions, have him go and find your kids or spouse. Swimming is an excellent exercise for all, and dogs are no exception to this. Socializing with other dogs can also benefit your doodle mentally and physically. Furnishings for Labradoodles roughly translates to… a moustache! Young pups should not be made to perform stunts, too, since it can impair their joints and cause serious issues. Puppies are also used to frequently change their walking pace, sprinting one minute, trotting the next, and then standing still looking around. If your pup is forced to maintain a steady pace for a long time, it can damage ligaments and immature joints. Playing outdoors for a short while or short walks on a leash will provide your puppy with a safe amount of exercise. Making them do the same mechanical movement for extended periods will also cause boredom and dislike for that activity. Humans may be creatures of habit, but dogs are not. This will prevent it from running into oncoming traffic, which may end up having disastrous results. It is always better to err on the side of caution where your pets are concerned. Similarly, be that protective shield against any other dog trying to threaten him. To Summarize Where the oodle dog is concerned, the more the activity, the happier the dog! Labradoodles make lovable companions. They love playing and spending time with the humans in the family. This is why they quickly become an integral part of the family. How often should you walk a Labradoodle? At least once per day and minutes depending on age and other activity. This is a breed that is also great with kids- loving and gentle. In terms of suitability, the Labradoodle makes for a great family pet , even for first-time pet owners. As for me, home is where my doodle is. 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. Energetic and playful, a Labradoodle does require a fair amount of walks and exercise every day. Labradoodles need at least two hours of exercise each day to burn off the excess energy these dogs are known for having, and you can split up the two hours into two or three separate walks. If you have to regularly leave your Labradoodle home alone for a period of time because of work commitments, always aim to schedule the first walk before you set off for work. Several factors will determine the time needed to walk a Doodle. If you and your Labradoodle live in an apartment , for instance, the lack of space and no regular access to the outdoors would mean three walks a day would be necessary. Dogs need exercise to help support cardiovascular fitness, stronger muscles, bones, and decreased stress and overall well-being. Routine Like any dog, Labradoodles like routine. As mentioned earlier, if you do have to go out in the morning, take him before you leave. Try to get a brisk walk in in the afternoon when you arrive home from work, and a simple toilet trip on the night before bed should be enough to keep your Labradoodle happy and content. When you arrive back home from taking your dog for a walk, leave it thirty minutes before you feed him. Exercising your Labradoodle before or straight after eating a meal could cause your dog to bloat. Mix it Up Taking your Labradoodle to the same place every day for his walks will soon become boring for both you and your pooch. Try to vary the walks once or twice a week. If you are restricted to only a few places, try to take a different route to break up the monotony. Remember to take a ball, a favorite stick, or even a frisbee. But is the opposite also the case? When humans first started breeding dogs they were used for work every day. They could be anything from guard dogs to hunting or tracking dogs. But no matter what they did there was one thing they had in common, dogs had a purpose with their lives, and they were proud to be able to do the tasks they were meant for. Most dogs no longer have the tasks that they used to, and what this means is that the typical working dogs no longer have their instincts and behavior stimulated naturally. These days the vast majority are regular family dogs where all they have to do each day is eat and sleep. Of course, a lot of dog owners do a good job of stimulating their dogs physically, but mental training is often overlooked. Many dog owners have the mistaken idea that as long as a dog gets its food, sleep, and physical exercise, they will get a happy and satisfied dog. Mental Stimulation But dogs are intelligent animals. A Labradoodle is one of the smartest dogs , and they have a need for mental stimulation that is equal to their need for physical exercise. Without the adequate amount of mental training, you will most likely never succeed in getting a happy and satisfied dog, but will most likely end up with serious behavior problems. Let me show you an example of why lack of mental stimulation could be a big problem. If you frequently take your dog for long walks or hiking adventures, the dog will get its physical demands met pretty easily, and quite well. But if you fail to challenge its mind, your labradoodle will end up feeling bored. Try to compare it to the needs of a human. We all need a certain amount of physical exercise to keep going, but most certainly we also need to be stimulated mentally. We do that by either reading a book, watching a movie, solving a puzzle or just by surrounding ourselves with other humans. What would happen if somebody told you to just go for a walk instead of watching a good movie? Or to go hiking instead of having a nice dinner with great food and wine? We need socialization and mental stimulation before we would call ourselves truly happy. And that is the same thing when it comes to our dogs. And it is really easy to combine mental training with physical training, and here is how you can do that. Try mixing up the afternoon walk with different fetch games, or some hide-and-seek. All these things help stimulate your labradoodle both physically and mentally. Hurried walks Try bringing your dog to a busy area like the local supermarket or the parking lot of the nearest mall. Try spending minutes there before returning back home. During this time your dog will receive plenty of new impressions from smelling, hearing, and seeing lots of new and interesting things. There might also be a pet store of some kind in your area where you could bring your dog. Bring your dog with you If you have to go for a short drive to fill up your car on gas or going to buy that winning lottery ticket, why not bring your dog? For a human, a minute drive might seem boring and something you just have to get done with, but for a dog, this is a way to experience a world of new sounds and smells. Try taking your dog out of the car and onto the parking lot, and allow it to go number one somewhere around there. This also allows your labradoodle to leave a few interesting new smells for the next dog that might feel like stopping by. Labradoodle Exercise Needs So even though a Labradoodle has reasonably high exercise needs , following the advice above should give you some tips on how you can do it. And at the same time, I can almost guarantee that you will also end up as a healthier and happier person. Just like your Labradoodle. The program has a pretty unique way of looking at dog training, and especially the mental part. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. Here are some benefits that daily exercise does for your doodle and you: Strengthens respiratory and circulatory systems Helps get oxygen to create new cells Wards of obesity Keeps muscles tones and joints flexible Helps digest Whether you live in an apartment or on a farm, start regular exercise and feeding patterns early at an early age, so your dog gets used and adapts to his and your daily routine. Daily exercise helps to keep your Labradoodle healthy, happy, and free from disease. Labradoodles generally require medium exercise. But there is no one-rules-fit-all solution. The amount of activity or exercise that each dog will need varies tremendously. It depends on several factors, including size , temperament, energy level, your living condition, whether you keep him with other dogs, and importantly what he is used to. According to the Vets, you should take your labradoodle out for at least one decent walk every day. Even better if you can take him out two or three times daily. A miniature Labradoodle will need at least 30 mins of exercise every day, while a large one will need at least an hour or more. Labradoodles are not lazy by nature. It will be an advantage if you have a fenced garden or yard so your doodle can burn off some energy between walks. You should not get a Labradoodle or any dog if you cannot commit at least one walk every day with your dog. Dogs like routine, but remember, there are strict guidelines to stick to with puppies. It is important not to over-exercise them, particularly with large breeds and crossbreeds like the standard Labradoodles. While their bones and joints are developing, they cannot tolerate a great deal of stress. So, playing Frisbee or fetch for hours with adolescents or puppies is not a good option. You will end up with a dog with health issues and a pile of veterinary bills. Establish a Routine Establishing a routine at an early age is a good idea. Try to get your dog used to exercise at the same time every day that fits in with your daily routine. For example, take the dog out after his morning feed , then perhaps a long walk in the afternoon or when you come home from work and a short toilet trip the last thing at night. Daily exercise could mean a walk around the block, jogging on the bike path, playing fetch the ball, or swimming. Labradoodles love all these activities. Swimming is an excellent way for dogs to exercise in the summertime. A lot of Vets suggest a small water tank not only for remedial therapy but also for canine recreation. Your Labradoodle will dash in and out of the water all day if you let him. Just remember that swimming is a lot more strenuous and tiring for dogs than walking, so do not over-stretch him. Whatever the routine you decide on, your dog should be getting out on a walk at least once a day, and you should stick to it. If you begin by taking your Doodle out three times a day and then suddenly stop, then he will become restless and start to seek attention only because he has been used to having more exercise. Same way, do not take your dog on day-long hikes unless you trained him for it. The dog will probably struggle. Medium and larger Labradoodles may make suitable hiking or jogging companions, but they will need to build up gradually to that amount of exercise. These activities are not ideal for puppies. Exercise for Older Dogs Older dogs also need exercise to keep their body, joints, and systems functioning properly. They will need a less strenuous exercise than younger dogs but still enough to keep them active, alert, and healthy. Physical and Mental Stimulation Labradoodle need sufficient exercise for their physical well-being as well as their mental well-being. They are very intelligent dogs, and without adequate exercise, they can become bored and restless. It can result in behavioral and attention-seeking problems, and some of them may become destructive. Before, experts used to recommend training dogs when they are one year old, but that has changed now. You can start training your Labradoodle from the day you bring him home, even as early as eight weeks. Boredom through lack of exercise or stimulation leads to bad behavior. This is one of the reasons why some Labradoodles end up in rescue centers, through no fault of their own. On the other hand, a Labradoodle that gets plenty of exercise is a happy Doodle and a wonderful companion. It does vary depending on whether you have a Miniature, Medium or Standard Labradoodle, and their energy levels. Labradoodle puppies have different temperaments, and some will be livelier and need more exercise than others. Puppies require much less exercise than fully-grown dogs. If you over-exercise a growing puppy, then you can overtire and may even damage his developing joints. This can cause early arthritis and other issues. The golden rule is to start slowly and build it up. The worst danger is a combination of over-exercise and overweight when the puppy is growing. Increase the walking time slowly as he gets used to the exercise. It will gradually build up his muscles and stamina. Once he becomes adult and fully grown, he can go out for much longer. Puppies have enquiring minds. Make sure that your puppy can exercise every day in a safe and secure area. As I mentioned earlier, your labradoodle can get used to an exercise routine. If you overstimulate and regularly exercise him as a puppy, then he will think this is the norm. The Key is to start a routine that you can follow. Note Do not take your puppy outside until his vaccination is complete, and it is safe to do so. Start with short walks on the leash every day. An excellent guideline is five minutes of exercise x per month of age up to twice a day until the puppy is fully grown. Exercise Tips Never exercise your dog on a full stomach. It can cause bloat, particularly in large dogs. You should not take your dog for exercise within an hour before or after eating. Do not throw a ball or a toy repeatedly for a puppy, as he may run to fetch it to please you. He thinks it is a good game, but he may become overtired and damage his joints, pull a muscle or strain his heart. Most Labradoodles love swimming. Swimming is an exhausting exercise for a dog. It can be great fun for him to fetch a ball or stick, stop the activity after a while. Repeatedly retrieving from water may cause him to overstretch himself. If you over-exercise your dog, it can place a strain on his heart just like humans. The best way to train him to retrieve while he is young. Give him praise or a treat when he brings the ball or toy back to your feet. No related posts. Labradoodles are a popular crossbreed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. This hybrid breed was developed in Australia in the late 20th century with the aim of creating a hypoallergenic guide dog. Labradoodles are known for their friendly nature, intelligence, and wavy or curly coat. They come in various sizes, including standard, medium, and miniature, with heights ranging from 35 to 63 cm and weights varying from 7 to 30 kg. Their life expectancy is typically between 12 and 15 years. What is the temperament of Labradoodles like? Labradoodles are generally friendly, sociable, and affectionate dogs. They are known for their gentle and patient nature, making them good family pets. Labradoodles often get along well with children and other pets if properly socialised from an early age. They thrive on human companionship and enjoy being part of the family. Labradoodles are intelligent and eager to please, which contributes to their trainability. They are known for their loyalty and adaptability, making them suitable for various living environments. Due to their Labrador Retriever and Poodle heritage, Labradoodles can display a mix of traits from both breeds, so individual temperaments may vary. How much exercise do Labradoodles need? Labradoodles are moderately active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They generally need about 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day to meet their needs, this depends on their fitness and their size due to the variation in labradoodle sizes. This exercise should include activities that allow them to burn off energy, such as walks, runs, interactive play sessions, and time to explore safely in a securely fenced area. For Labradoodle puppies, exercise should be tailored to their age and physical development. It's important to provide age-appropriate activities and avoid excessive high-impact exercises that could strain their growing joints. Short, controlled play sessions and gentle walks are suitable for young Labradoodle puppies. As Labradoodles mature into adults, they can handle longer and more challenging exercise routines. Engaging them in mentally stimulating activities, such as puzzle toys or obedience training, can also help keep their intelligent minds occupied. For the smaller ones they tend to mature at around 12 months, but for the larger bred ones, crosses of standard poodles, they should not be at adult exercise levels until months old. Do Labradoodles need a lot of grooming? Labradoodles have a unique coat that requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from matting. The coat can range from wavy to curly and can come in different lengths and textures. Labradoodles may have a low-shedding or non-shedding coat, making them potentially suitable for individuals with allergies. Grooming needs may vary depending on the type of coat your Labradoodle inherits. Regular brushing, at least 2 to 3 times per week, is essential to prevent matting and to remove loose hair. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks can help maintain the coat's appearance and manage its length. Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. Are Labradoodles easy to train? Labradoodles are known for their high intelligence and trainability, making them generally easy to train. They have a strong desire to please their owners, which can aid in the training process. Labradoodles respond well to positive reinforcement techniques, such as rewards, praise, and treats to reinforce desired behaviours. Early socialisation and obedience training are crucial for Labradoodles. Start training them from a young age to establish good behaviours and manners. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key to successful training. Keep training sessions engaging and varied to prevent boredom and maintain their focus. Labradoodles excel in various dog sports and activities, such as agility, obedience, and therapy work. They thrive on mental stimulation and enjoy learning new tricks and tasks. Enrolling them in puppy classes or working with a professional dog trainer can help you establish a strong foundation for their training. What do Labradoodles eat? Labradoodles require a balanced and nutritious diet to support their overall health and well-being. Feed them high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their age, size, and activity level. Follow the feeding guidelines provided by the food manufacturer and adjust the portions based on your dog's individual needs and body condition. For Labradoodle puppies, provide them with a specially formulated puppy food that supports their growth and development. Puppies should be fed times a day until they are 6 months old when it can be reduced to twice daily. Consult with your veterinarian for more specific recommendations for your pooch. As Labradoodles transition into adulthood, gradually switch them to an adult dog food. Choose a dog food that is suitable for their size and activity level. Avoid overfeeding and monitor their weight to prevent obesity, which can lead to health issues Are Labradoodles healthy? Labradoodles, as a hybrid breed, can inherit health conditions from both Labrador Retrievers and Poodles. While Labradoodles are generally considered healthy dogs, they may be prone to certain health concerns. Some potential health issues in Labradoodles include: Bones and Joints Cruciate Disease - when a cruciate ligament of the knee is either partially or fully torn leading to discomfort and lameness Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis Eyes Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA - this is when the retina of the eye breaks down, leading to blindness Gastrointestinal Gastric Dilation Volvulus GDV - usually more likely in the larger breed Labradoodles, this occurs when the stomach twists and gas and contents get trapped inside. It is a very serious condition and a vet should be contacted immediately! BorrowMyDoggy loves Labradoodles BorrowMyDoggy has Labradoodle members Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet. Poodle Guides. Well, even if your Labradoodle puppy seems active and hyper , the truth is that they actually need to sleep for a lot of the day at this young age. Puppies need plenty of good, quality sleep to help their brains and bodies develop. So, ensuring your Doodle gets enough sleep is just as important as ensuring they get enough exercise. On average, Labradoodle puppies should be getting around 18 to 20 hours of sleep a day. So, you only have 4 — 6 hours left for your puppy to play, exercise, learn, and eat. The Dangers of Over-Exercising Labradoodle Puppies As well as the need for lots of sleep, too much exercise can result in bone and joint damage, or can hinder development and growth. Labradoodles come from two large and hard working breeds. But, they are also prone to certain joint issues, including hip and elbow dysplasia, and arthritis. Routine exercise can include walking, running, or even an energetic game of fetch in the backyard. But, throughout the day, your puppy will also get exercise from following you around the house, training sessions, playing inside, and playing with other doggy playmates. Many puppies also have a burst of energy at least once a day when they race madly around for a few minutes. This is often referred to as the zoomies. Like all puppies, your Labradoodle explores the world with his mouth and nose. When he first comes home with you, everything he experiences is going to be new. And, exploring his or her new home will take a lot of energy in those first couple of weeks! So, you might find that formal exercise is the least of your worries in the first week or two. The best type of exercise for Labradoodle puppies will depend on their age, and on protecting their joints. Why Age Matters Most Labradoodle puppies will be fully vaccinated by 12 weeks. But for some, it may be a little later. If your Doodle comes home with you at 8 weeks, this means you have an entire month where exercising outside is unsafe. Putting your pup on the ground outside where other animals can go can put your Labradoodle puppy at risk of diseases like parvovirus, canine distemper, and leptospirosis. As they get older, you can not only go outside with your puppy, but also increase the amount of time you spend exercising them. So, a short walk could turn into a lovely long hike or swim once your puppy is over 6 months old. Protecting Their Joints The other factor that influences the best type of exercise for your Labradoodle puppy is the need to protect their joints. Whilst puppies are young, their joints will be at their most vulnerable, still undergoing a period of development. But, the type of exercise you let your puppy do can also have an impact. For instance, one study recommends that puppies under 3 months of age should not be allowed to use stairs, as this can potentially increase their risk of hip dysplasia. So, whilst your Doodle is still very young, calmer forms of exercise are going to be best, particularly things that can be done on flat surfaces. Why is Exercise so Important for a Labradoodle Puppy? All puppies and dogs need a certain amount of routine exercise, and the Labradoodle is no exception. In fact, Labradoodles will need more exercise and mental stimulation than some other, less active breeds or mixes. Exercise is important because puppies are active, playful, and curious. If they are bored, they can become destructive and get into trouble. Proper exercise will help to reduce problematic behaviors like chewing, potty training accidents, and hyperactivity. Remember, keeping your puppy well rested is just as important as meeting their exercise needs. Exercise Can Improve Health On top of the benefits of exercise listed above, proper exercise will also help to keep your Labradoodle puppy physically healthy. Exercise will help to: Regulate their weight Strengthen bones and joints Aid in overall healthy development Best of all, consistent Labradoodle puppy exercise routines go hand-in-hand with training and socialization. Exercising Your Labradoodle Puppy Without Going on a Walk There are plenty of ways you can give your Labradoodle puppy exercise without taking them on a walk. In fact, since very young Labradoodle puppies need around 30 minutes of exercise a day, you can achieve this by just investing in a few good toys. Here are some fun game ideas to try out with your Labradoodle puppy: Play fetch in the backyard Create obstacle courses in your lounge avoid steps if under 3 months Play tug in the house Play hide and seek with some smelly treats Teach your puppy some new tricks Labradoodles are very intelligent and will enjoy learning and exploring. So, when exercising your Labradoodle puppy, work to implement structure and rules. Walk or exercise your Labradoodle around the same time each day, even if the exercises or games are different. But, avoid anything that clearly scares your puppy. Remember that the world around him is new, and every experience can have a major impact on his well being as an adult dog. Along with some added mental stimulation, this will make future walks much easier and more enjoyable. Even if your puppy is waiting on vaccines, you can still begin leash training at home. Gently encourage your Labradoodle to love the leash and harness by introducing it gradually. Pair it with some tasty treats and lots of praise. Once your puppy is happy with getting the harness and leash on and off, practice taking a few steps in the home and backyard. Remember, your puppy is a puppy, and all of these behaviors are normal! The best way to help him learn as quickly as possible is to keep walking sessions short, fun, and game-like. You can even start on the basics of heel with a training course. Have you already mastered polite leash walking, or is that something you and your Doodle are still working on? Related Articles. Many owners also wonder how much and what types of exercise they should be doing with their Labradoodle. We created this exercise guide to help owners understand the proper amounts of activity to keep their pups healthy and happy. The exercise levels and different activities appropriate for dogs change as they grow and develop. Recommended Exercise Time — How long should you exercise your pup? We give rough guidelines on how long Labradoodles should exercise. How much is too much? At this stage, they will want to explore their new living environment. Be sure to puppy-proof the main area they will be spending their time in and remove anything that might be dangerous to them. It is important to monitor their activity with kids, people, and any other household pets. It will decrease the chances of your beloved pooch becoming overly anxious or simply overwhelmed. The puppy should be in a safe environment at all times. This is where crate training can make a huge difference. It not only allows you to keep your puppy safe, but it can expedite housebreaking tremendously. See which crate I use with my own dogs and highly recommend in this article. Recommended Exercise Time It is crucial to follow some common-sense exercise time recommendations for an 8 week old Labradoodle puppy. Keep intensive exercise sessions short at 10 minutes or so. Some terrific age-appropriate exercises and game ideas for young puppies include: Slow and easy walks for short distances on a leash. Free play in the backyard for a minutes. Short indoor walks through the house. Relaxed play with some of their smaller toys may start introducing fetch by rolling a ball. Cuddles and one-on-one interaction. You can take a look at toys we recommend here. What To Avoid You want to be careful not to overwork your pup. Here are some examples of exercises or activities that would be too much for a puppy: Expecting your pup to keep up with you when running or jogging. Having your puppy play with young kids for longer than a few minutes. Having your pup climb lots of stairs or run up steep hills. This is when the dog begins to develop their tiny ligaments, tendons, and other small body structures. At around 14 weeks up to approximately 26 weeks of age, your bouncy Labradoodle puppy is continuing to develop their skeleton and joints. This development is so important, and dog owners might notice that their pup appears more tired than usual during these initial growth spurts. It is crucial to ensure that your puppy is getting the proper nutrition and proper rest to aid in their normal growth process. Recommended Exercise Time Like other dog breeds, there are recommended exercise time limits for 3-month-old Labradoodle puppies. At this stage of their young lives, Labradoodles can usually handle up to 15 minutes of more vigorous exercise levels two to three times per day. Your puppy should be settling into a normal daily routine, and new activities should be initiated every so often to keep these curious and energetic puppies from getting bored with their lifestyles. This dog breed is obtained by blending Labradors with Poodles. The resulting Labradoodle puppy typically inherits the higher intelligence levels that these breeds are known for. This pack of toys makes it easy to keep your puppy interested. They were favorites of my dog when he was a puppy, and he still enjoys them today. No products found. Initiating more activities into their daily routine also helps to keep their minds sharp and focused. Dog owners should be sure to monitor any new activity, game, or exercise to help prevent their puppy from overexerting themselves. New activities should be introduced slowly. These can be increased as your puppy masters the task without any adverse reactions. This comes from their hunter and retriever ancestors. Gradually, hide it out of sight, then direct your dog to find it. Other appropriate Labradoodle activities include teaching your pup tricks that build on their backgrounds. Are they easy to train? Find the answer here. Playing fetch with a ball, Frisbee, stick, or other objects is something that your dog might find simple to do. Advanced Tricks — Shake, roll over, or even dance. Start easy by making noises to give them clues. Tug-of-War — Be sure to keep it gentle and stop if your pup starts to use their teeth. Encourage Water Games — Most Labradoodles love to swim, so exposing them to water early can be a fun way to keep them fit. Just be careful not to get water in their ears. Nose-Work Games — Hide some of her favorite treats and encourage using her nose to find them. Make sure they are current on their shots and friendly! What To Avoid At 3 months of age, your favorite puppy is still young and growing fast. Like people, your dog will need the right amount of sleep and relaxation time following these harder activities. There are many exercise options that should be avoided or put off until a later date. Extended periods of running or jogging. Lots of jumping up and down from things like the bed and couch when playing. Back-to-back sessions of exercise without proper time for rest and hydration. It is appropriate to increase their daily level of exercise on a daily or regular basis, but it should be kept in check with what the puppy is able to safely perform. This should be implemented 2 times a day for safer results. Dog owners should always keep in mind that their puppy is still undergoing a lot of growth during this first year, and activities should be added as the dog matures and masters the beginning tasks. Water Activities — Explore more water activities , like dock diving, swimming, fetch balls from water. Visit Dog Parks — Great for additional socialization. Introduce Agility — Build a simple dog agility course in the backyard. Advance Learning — Teach your pup how to find colors or identify their toys by name. Hikes — Explore the environment more and take them on hikes or even camping. In fact, your dog prefers to use his intelligent brain to try and solve all of those challenges that their favorite people in their life often give them. While your pup might be beginning to look like a full-grown adult, in reality, their bodies are still growing with many important body systems still in development. Recommended Exercise Time The owners of Labradoodles still need to carefully shield their loyal pets from overexertion due to too much or too intense physical exercise. At this stage, your dog should be pretty good about self-moderating their exercise. At months, 30 minutes of exercise two to three times daily should be good. When owners do not include plenty of mental stimulation for their pet each day, Labradoodles become bored swiftly. The danger here is that these ever-resourceful dogs will gladly find something within their reach to keep their minds occupied resulting in chewed table legs or shredded pillows. Here are some extra activity ideas to work in: Increase the complexity in some of their nose-work and hide and seek games. Change the route you take on your walks to make things more interesting for them. Change the pace of your walks. Add to your outdoor agility course or enroll them in agility classes. Teach them how to bark on command. However, your dog will still likely gain weight for approximately 6 more months. Of course, Mini-Labradoodle breeds will have smaller sizes respectively than their larger counterparts. A routine of 30 minutes of exercise two to three times daily should be continued. As they age, you may need to cut back on certain physical activities that involve lots of jumping and excessive running. Here are some things to look out for: Stiffness when they walk. Hesitation for normal movements, like standing or running. Generally seems overly tired or fatigued. Weight loss. Not urinating enough a sign of dehydration. Tries to avoid normal activities. Increase in destructive behaviors, such as chewing, biting, excessive barking, digging, or scratching. Weight gain. Common Exercise-Related Injuries in Labradoodles While Labradoodles from reputable breeders are typically healthy, there are some inherited health conditions and exercise-induced injuries owners should be aware of. Labradoodles can experience injuries due to overexertion and too intensive exercise sessions. These include muscle sprains, tears or stiffness, joint damage, tendon or ligament injuries and painful muscle spasms, as overworked muscles break down and secrete toxins into the bloodstream. Exercise Cautions Important exercise cautions for Labradoodles include waiting at least 1 hour after eating before playing or exercising. Owners should also wait 30 minutes following a walk or exercise session before feeding their dog. These measures help to prevent gastrointestinal issues like bloating from occurring. Related Questions: When can a puppy jump? Twelve months is around the time their growth plates have fully closed. If they jump excessively before then, especially from bigger heights, long-term damage can be caused. Is jumping bad for a puppy? Labradoodle puppies that jump too early can do long-term damage to themselves. Any jumping before that age risks long-term damage. Common jump-related injuries include hip and other joint problems along with torn tendons. How soon after a dog eats can they play? Wait at least an hour after eating before letting your dog play to avoid gastric distress and bloating. Additionally, wait approximately 30 minutes after physical exercise before feeding your dog. Labradoodles are friendly, smart, and make wonderful family pets. This physical exercise guide for Labradoodles can help owners keep their dog safe and healthy during exercise sessions. It is truly a must-have for all owners and anyone considering this awesome breed. All dogs need daily exercise to stay fit and healthy. Some owners may have acres of open space, while others live in close quarters in city apartments. No matter the environment, it is healthy for your dog to receive their daily dose of cardio. This will keep your labradoodle in good spirits and disease-free. Do all dogs need the same amount of exercise? The amount of physical activity a dog requires varies depending on its size, breed, energy level, and the environment in which it lives. Texas Australian Labradoodles recommends the average Labradoodle puppy should be taken out for a minimum of two quality walks every day. To minimize the development of unhealthy joints, it is best to keep exercise periods short and allow adequate rest periods between the exercise. Let your puppy decide when he is ready to resume the play. Implement a Daily Routine When setting up a daily routine, puppy owners must remember that young puppies require a lot of sleep, sometimes even up to hours a day. They need sleep to grow. It is not uncommon to have the puppy be playful for a few minutes and then be ready for a nap. Be observant and get to know your puppy as overstimulated puppies may exhibit disinterest in food and other troubling symptoms. As your puppy grows, the time spent napping will start to decrease and you can start adding incremental periods of time filled with play and interactive games. It is far easier to accomplish tasks and form productive habits if it is instilled in our routine. Swimming is another fun way for your labradoodle puppy to burn off energy. Remember, that swimming is far more strenuous than walking and should be done for a shorter period of time. Not only does physical exercise help your Labradoodle stay physically fit, but it also is beneficial for them mentally. A puppy that is bored and continually locked inside can become restless and exhibit attention-seeking tendencies. For more information about how to raise a healthy and happy Australian Labradoodle, visit our Texas Australian Labradoodles blog.

Reserve your new puppy now! Experienced Breeders We are a small boxer breeding family from rural Pennsylvania. All of our boxers are house pets who receive attention and love daily. They are vetted regularly and health tested. We do not have kennels or an outdoor facility of any kind. Each and every puppy is raised with our family, in our home. All of our boxers receive daily exercise and training. We begin potty and crate training at 4 weeks of age, so when they go to their forever homes, training has already begun!! Supreme, Respectable Lines We have a wide variety of registrations to suit our needs. We are known for our brand new line of Merle Boxers, as well. With each litter we will clearly state the registration, health and bloodlines. Our dogs are up to date on their vaccinations and our pups will be too! All of our dogs are on a diet of PawTree. We believe a high quality diet is essential for raising healthy dogs and puppies. Click on the link below to get started!! How about an emotional support dog or an athletic dog to run and bike with? A boxer can do it all! They have been used for hunting, tracking, messengers, guarding, pulling, and so much more!! Boxer puppies are best known for being amazing family dogs, super great personalities and very affectionate. They love to cuddle and play and can be gentle, and be protective companions for the whole family. Photo Gallery. Life Span Did You Know? The Boxer is one of the most popular dog breeds in the United States. It has been recognized by the AKC since .Although the Boxer dog breed originated in Germany, their ancient ancestry can be traced back to the Assyrian empire war dogs of BC. The modern Boxer breed we know and love today was originally developed in Germany in the late s. English-bred Bulldogs and the Bullenbesiier were crossed to create an energetic and agile hunting dog to chase wild game. The Boxer is a popular family companion and a versatile working dog. As a member of the Working Group, Boxers can be found competing in dog sports like agility, obedience, and herding. They also make great service and assistance dogs, as well as therapy dogs, and can be found working as search and rescue dogs, drug detection dogs, police dogs, and military dogs. The Boxer is a muscular and energetic dog that tends to have a happy, friendly disposition. They bond closely with their families and tend to get along well with children and other dogs. They can even do well with other pets despite their high prey drive if they are socialized and trained with them. As long as they are well-socialized, Boxers are generally upbeat, playful, and friendly. Although they have a natural instinct to protect their family from unwanted visitors, they do tend to warm up once introduced and are happy to make a new friend. They can be prone to barking a lot if you do not work on socialization and training your dog to stop barking early on. Boxers can be highly adaptable dogs. Although they have a lot of energy and are better suited to homes with yards where they can run, they can adapt to apartment living as long as they get the daily exercise, attention, and mental stimulation they need. As with any non-arctic dog breed, they are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Boxers are also a brachycephalic breed, which means they are even more sensitive to heat than other dogs. A Boxer is also one of the most affectionate dog breeds. Because they bond so closely with their families and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health conditions to be aware of in a Boxer include hip dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, thyroid issues , and heart conditions like aortic stenosis and cardiomyopathy. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and about any health tests that have been done. Boxers are intelligent dogs that are eager to please their owners. Despite their energetic personality, they are one of the best dog breeds for first-time owners and are highly trainable dogs. They tend to excel at almost any task put before them! Because of their open, friendly nature and high energy, they have a tendency to jump up at people in excitement and playfulness. Since they grow into powerful dogs, you will want to make sure you train your dog not to jump up. Boxers have smooth and short coats that will shed a little year-round and require minimal grooming. A brush-down once or twice a week and the occasional bath as needed will keep their short coat healthy and looking great. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Checking ears weekly and carefully cleaning as needed can help prevent ear infections. Checking and wiping their facial wrinkles weekly or a few times a week if your dog is prone to getting into things can help keep their wrinkles clean and free of irritation. Dental diseases, like gum disease, are the most common health issues in older dogs because dental care is often overlooked; and, it can lead to other serious health issues. Brushing daily, plus cleanings at the vet when needed, is ideal. The Boxer is a high-energy dog breed that needs plenty of daily exercise to stay happy and healthy. Due to their high prey drive and urge to chase, they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Boxers tend to get bored with repetition, are excellent problem solvers, and are naturally exuberant. A fully-grown Boxer usually stands inches tall at the shoulder and weighs pounds. Boxers generally live years on average. In Germany, the Boxer was one of the first dog breeds chosen for police training. Featured Boxer Article.

Quickly place your dog in their designated potty area. Praise them when they urinate or mess in the correct area. You must always watch them when they are loose in the house, or else they will have an accident. Follow this guide on potty training your German Shepherd , step-by-step, for a stress-free experience. Enjoy Gentle Daily Exercise German Shepherd puppies have lots of energy but still need gentle exercise. Your breed is highly active and loves the challenge of new activities! But these activities must consider their age. Start with a shorter walking session and work on building up the time and distance as your dog matures. Increase distance very slowly to avoid injuries to your dog. Begin with only 5 minutes of slow walking for every month your pup is old. An 8-week-old pup can walk 10 minutes at a time. A week-old pup can handle 15 minutes of walking at a leisurely pace. Your large-breed pup needs time to let its bone fully fuse and to gain an increase in strength. Here are a few more safe, healthy German Shepherd puppy exercise for steady growth. This is the same program I used for my GSD and she now jogs a 10k routinely. Mental Exercise and Training are Essentials Without proper mental exercise, your dog becomes bored. Boredom leads to destructive and annoying behaviors such as: excessive barking biting and nipping you and your guests mouthing your hands or digging up your yard Brain games mentally stimulate your dog. These games require your dog to figure out a small task to receive a reward. Mental activity is shown to help keep dogs more engaged in their environments and prevent boredom. They help control unwanted behaviors from boredom. I started my German Shepherd with this activity flip board dog brain puzzle. As your dog becomes proficient in a game, you make the game more challenging. There is no end to how easy or hard you can make these games! Learn the Joys of Grooming Start puppies out with grooming gloves, which are gentle and easier on their skin. GSDs need a brushing routine that keeps them and your house free from excessive loose hair and helps their skin stay healthy. Use these grooming gloves on your puppy while in a quiet area. They are soft and gentle and create a positive association with future grooming. Offer tasty treats to keep the grooming upbeat. Use a soothing voice and tell them how good they are. Above all, help make grooming and brushing positive experiences from the very start to save yourself and your dog stress later. A baby German Shepherd that tolerates and even enjoys a daily brushing is a dog that is easier to keep in better health and experiences less frustration when you bring out the grooming tools. While a puppy gets immunity through nursing in the first weeks of life, the immunity wears off shortly. Therefore puppies get a series of shots during their initial vaccination schedule. Vaccines prevent illness and keep your pet safe from disease. Your breeder should give your pup their first vaccination series before you bring them home. Bring this vaccination history with you to your vet on your first visit. Your Priority of Care What to Do 1. Make your house puppy ready for your new dog Prepare their sleep area, have the right supplies on hand, and make sure any hazards are put away out of reach. Communicate the essentials Have a list of words printed out so that you and your family know what to say to help your puppy learn what you want and what he needs to know. Meet their daily needs Your puppy has a lot to do each day for their basic care, so understand what routine you must develop for them to thrive. Set sleep routines Having a sleep routine in place keeps your puppy from becoming too unruly. Teach potty training Start from day 1 to teach potty and house training by using a structured schedule. Daily gentle exercise German Shepherd puppies need gentle exercise so avoid running, jumping, or jogging with them until around 18 months or so to prevent joint issues later. Brain training and mental stimulation Your smart breed needs to keep their mind occupied by using a training program to brain train their obedience skills and include mental stimulation with fun games and puzzles. Early introduction to grooming A grooming glove is your best friend for a safe, easy introduction to later brushing and coat maintenance. German Shepherd Puppy Care for Life While there are many aspects to puppies, this guide is a great start on learning how to take care of a German Shepherd puppy so you feel confident with your new puppy. These early encounters set the pattern of his future relationship with you. Use these ideas to make your German Shepherd love you and give them plenty of love and affection throughout the day. With proper care and attention, you and your GSD will enjoy a long, happy life together. Want more help with your German Shepherd puppy care for even smoother sailing? Are you prepared for any unusual and surprising behavior changes? Do you know what training your dog needs and when? She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Calm older dogs are good for this one. Most importantly for German Shepherd puppies, it will give you a chance to work with them around other people, and different dogs from a young age. Settle on a mat German Shepherds are incredibly curious, which can make it difficult for them to relax while out and about. Leash walking — no one wants a large breed of dog pulling them down the street, so be sure you teach loose lead walking and how about some heelwork too? Recall games — Play a game of tennis with your pooch! Calling them from person to person with treats on either side. Get started with grooming and brushing sensitive areas — In long-haired German Shepherds, this is typically the case with the face, legs, and ears, which become tangled the most and may hurt when brushed. Remember to brush carefully, do a little bit of brushing on a sensitive area while feeding them treats or letting them have a lickimat, and then brush an easier to brush area. For socialisation, start working on items that are vital to your lifestyle this week, such as if you have a horse and want your puppy to be comfortable with horses, or if you enjoy sailing, having them near water will be important to you. Getting your puppy exposed to new experiences early on can help them accept them much more easily. Socialization exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Go to the pub — you deserve it! Remember that settle training you did before, take your mat and get your German Shepherd puppy to settle on it with a nice stuffed kong. Alone training: increasing time alone is important for your puppy. It gives them essential coping skills. Recall — Practise this outside, using a lead, and lots of rewards. Lead walking — Take this outside. Make sure you keep a strong pace going, since German Shepherds enjoy walking quickly, and praise often to keep your puppy interested. Pretend Nail Clips — simply holding a claw, pretending to clip , and rewarding your puppy with a treat is enough. Following on walks — Bring special toys, like the Tug-E-Nuff Pocket tugger, with you on walks to ensure your German Shepherd puppy enjoys hanging out with you. Playing with them will make you irresistible! Week 7 — Training your German Shepherd puppy The 7-week itch! Nah not really. I bet your German Shepherd puppy is doing wonderfully and growing rapidly! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — How about taking your German Shepherd to a city farm, letting them watch from afar and rewarding them for being such a calm puppy? Teach your German Shepherd puppy to stay — this will be a great one to show off at the park, trust us. So, first, take a walk with a dog that your German Shepherd puppy has already met. At first, it may be difficult for your puppy not to get distracted, so keep the rewards coming and try to keep them interested in you, rather than the other dog! Recall — off the lead Make sure you do this in a secure and confined area and bring plenty of smelly treats, a fun toy to play with, and your silly high-pitched voice so you can call your German Shepherd puppy back regularly. Remember, German Shepherds enjoy learning! Tick 3 things off your personal socialisation checklist — maybe take your German Shepherd for a swimming lesson? Practice exercises in different locations — how about a train station, or in a shopping centre or mall? Teach a hand target — This is a favourite among pups and their owners. Hand Targeting or touching is the foundation for additional trick behaviours like leg weaving and closing doors. Introducing nose work to your puppy — We mean it when we say your German Shepherd puppy has a better nose than you! Play a game of hide and seek with their favourite toy to bring out those excellent search skills. Looking for more great puppy training tips? Check out our overview of when to start teaching your puppy anything , next. It will be fun they said. We go the extra mile for you. If you want a stress free puppy experience, get this downloaded! Worth every single penny! This app is very helpful. It helps you to understand and gives you a path to follow. The coaching support is excellent and super speedy. Download the app now. German Shepherd dogs are known for their athletic capabilities, intelligence, and loyalty, making them one of India's most sought after breeds. Dog lovers are enamoured by the German shepherd's majestic appearance, intellect and guarding abilities. If you have decided or have recently become a German Shepherd's parent, you should be grateful to have such a loving and loyal companion who will stand by you no matter what in the years to come. However, parenting a German Shepherd is not an easy feat. Multiple factors need to be taken into consideration before you are confident that you will be able to provide for the needs of this dog. Parenting a German Shepherd is a highly gratifying affair, but the first step is choosing your puppy and caring for it. It needs to be planned out carefully to ensure that you and your dog spend all your days enjoying maximum satisfaction. This article will run you down through all the crucial decisions and actions that must be taken, starting from whether you should parent a German Shepherd, all the way to how you can care for your puppy. Is a German Shepherd is right for you? Before answering this question, it is imperative to check if parenting any German Shepherd is right for you to begin with. This breed is a very demanding one. It requires plentiful exercise to remain physically and mentally healthy. Without adequate playtime and activity, dogs of this breed can become destructive. So the question here is, do you have the facilities required to give your German shepherd this level of exercise? Do you have a yard, a park or a lawn near you where you can exercise your dog? Do you have the time to take them out on frequent walks? German Shepherds are usually suitable for people who engage in high-intensity sports such as running and bicycling. Will you be able to engage in such activities for the benefit of your dog as well as you? Similarly, German Shepherds are highly sociable animals and thrive in interactive environments. They need other dogs or people around them most of the time. Does your daily routine allow you to be near your dog for long periods of time? If you plan to leave your German shepherd at home for hours a day while you are working, this breed may not be suitable for you. Dogs of this breed are also prone to excessive shedding, and you need to be ready to find a lot of dog fur all around you. Being a large breed, feeding and taking care of these dogs are time and money intensive. They live long lives and can suffer from health problems too, and thus, caring for them can be an expensive affair. Thus, these are some of the questions that need to be answered to gauge whether a German Shepherd is indeed right for you to begin with. With these conditions in place, this breed may not be ideal for first-time dog parents. Coming to the type of German Shepherd that is right for you, this breed can be classified into two categories - work line type and show line type dogs. The differentiation is based on the heritage of the dogs of this breed and the purpose for which they were bred. Show lines were mainly bred for their look, colour and body type. Work Lines were primarily bred for their health and personality rather than to look a certain way. The line you choose depends on what you really want to be doing with your German shepherd. Work lines should be chosen if you seek a family pet or want some type of function to be performed because this type is known for its trainability, knowledge and skill. However, if you are more concerned with your dog's appearance, then going after show lines might be more appropriate. It must be mentioned, though, that it is possible to find show line dogs with the same characteristics as work line dogs and vice versa if they have been bred by individuals who are concerned with their appearance as well as health. Beyond work and show lines, age is another essential factor to consider. A good breeder would not offer puppies that are lesser than 8 weeks old as they still require their mother's milk as well as other social skills. Puppies who have received this from their mothers will be less likely to engage in destructive and unruly behaviour. First and foremost, verify that the puppy's parents have good health and desirable temperaments. Then examine the puppy in terms of health and hygiene by checking the eyes, ears, teeth, skin, coat, paws, etc. Study the gait of your puppy; it should be even. With German Shepherds, in particular, it is vital that you choose a pup that does not have undesirable traits. Visit the breeder at least four to five times before making a decision. Choosing a pup from the litter that is neither the timidest nor the most dominant would be wise if you want a bit of both traits. A German Shepherd puppy that is well built, energetic and sociable would be ideal. Next, to gauge the temperament of a puppy you want to select, you could perform a few simple tests, such as making eye contact with them. If they hold contact, it reflects confidence. It might be a sign of nervousness and anxiety if it looks away. Clapping your hands is another simple test. If the puppy runs away, it can be judged as timid, but it can signify that the pup wants to be friends if it approaches you. Similarly, other tests include calling the puppy to pet it, introducing it to a new toy, making a sudden noise, lifting the puppy and holding it above your head, or grabbing its paw. The reaction of puppies to such actions can provide much-needed insight into a puppy's temperament and help prospective dog parents make the right choice. On the one hand, if you prefer a dog that isn't prone to undermining your authority, it would be sensible to choose a moderately submissive puppy. On the other hand, if you want a dog for protection, it would be wise to choose a tough, trainable, and courageous puppy. After four to five visits, it would be possible for you to judge correctly - the personality and various character traits of the puppy you're interested in. As German Shepherds have highly individual personalities, you might bond more with one German Shepherd than the other. Lastly, before making a final decision, it is always good to ask the breeder for their opinion, as good breeders often have vital information about their puppies and can provide valuable insight into their characteristics and temperaments, thereby ensuring that you exactly find what you are looking for. Bringing Your German Shepherd Puppy Home Once you have established a rapport with a puppy and have made up your mind about becoming a dog parent, or a dog parent to another puppy, take a friend or companion with you who can help you clean up if your puppy is carsick. If you intend on making your puppy comfortable in a crate, give the crate to the breeder a few days before you bring the puppy home so that the breeder can help it acclimatize itself to the crate. The first day at home will be a traumatic experience for your puppy as it is away from its family. Thus, ensure that your puppy has a place to be comfortable and relaxed, with an adequate amount of food and water. It would be wise to spend some time exclusively with your puppy initially, such as an extended weekend plan so that your bond can grow. Be sure to collect your puppy's adoption contract and veterinary records. Furthermore, find out the exact kind of food that the breeder was giving the puppy you just adopted. Giving your pup entirely different food during the first few days can be traumatic for them. With their unfamiliar sights, smells, and sounds, your home and car can frighten your puppy, leading it to stress out and get anxious. Anticipate this and give your pup some time to adjust to the new environment. The first few days can be demanding as a dog parent because you need to adapt to changes in your schedule with the arrival of your puppy. Similarly, the puppy, too, can cry, whine or get overly affectionate, which can be regarded as coping mechanisms to deal with the sudden change in environment. During this time, make sure you don't scold your puppy or be overly affectionate either. Before bringing your newly adopted puppy home, it is essential for you to puppy-proof your home! Go down on all fours and check for sharp objects, hazardous materials, or any other dangerous substance that your puppy might end up chewing or swallowing. Cover your electrical outlets as well. Stock your home with food that your puppy has been eating while under the breeder's care. Keep an adequate amount of food and water, water bowls, treats, and grooming tools such as brushes, shampoos for puppies and nail clippers. Cleaning detergent for stains and smells will also come in handy in case of any accidents. Decide on that area of the house that will be where your puppy spends most of its time. This step is crucial as constantly changing your puppy's place can lead to disruptive sleep patterns and cause stress. German Shepherds, being extremely active, will tend to run across your halls, and in such cases, an accident or two are bound to happen. In such cases, it would be a good idea to restrict your dog's movements to areas that can be cleaned easily. Furthermore, German Shepherds have sharp claws and can ruin expensive hardwood floors, so it would be wise to keep them away from such flooring. As mentioned previously, your puppy will be nervous during the first few days. Frequent bathroom breaks will be a necessity for your pup, and thus, keep an area designated just for this purpose. Also, let your dog run around the house and acquaint itself with its surroundings. If your dog is chewing or biting furniture in a puppy-proofed home, you could offer a toy as a distraction. If you have children, teach them how to properly handle your puppy without being too rough. If you have other pets, give your pup a chance to meet and acknowledge them. Be careful while introducing your puppy to other puppies and grown dogs. However, most dogs are not aggressive with puppies, so it is doubtful that you will face problems on this front. Between eight and sixteen weeks of age, Puppies require plenty of clean water to drink and many meals a day. They also have small bladders and hence, will urinate often. Since they expend a lot of energy during the day, they will take several naps. It would be recommended to begin a daily routine for your pup and stick to it. Since German Shepherds require a lot of physical activity, taking them out in the mornings and evenings for an adequate amount of time religiously would be necessary. The faster you get your pup accustomed to a routine, the more beneficial it is to better sleeping schedules and better mental and physical health. When you begin house training your dog, be sure to praise them when they relieve themselves in designated areas but refrain from punishing them if they fail to do so. Remember that your home is a new environment for them, and thus, it will take a while to house train them. Training Your German Shepherd Puppy. Training your dog from the day they come home is very important. Clear rules should be set that should not be broken. For example, if you do not want your dog to get on the bed, do not let them come on the bed ever. Allowing them sometimes and then not other times gets confusing for your dog, and they may not be able to learn the desired behaviour effectively. Training your puppy can be divided into two stages, each with different objectives. The first stage of training needs to take place when your pup is between eight to sixteen weeks of age. In this period, socialization, house training and crate training goals must be accomplished. The second stage of training needs to occur when your puppy is three months of age until about 9 months. The main objectives of this training phase are obedience training, impulse control, and recall. From 8 - 16 weeks Goal: Socialization German shepherds are very protective of their owners. This makes it essential to make them see that other individuals are not necessarily threats. This period is critical to expose your puppy to different people in non-threatening situations. This can help them grow more confident around strangers instead of becoming hostile. Socialization creates a strong foundation for the rest of your puppy's training. One example of socialization comes from the grooming requirements of this breed. German Shepherds need to be groomed regularly so that they don't shed a lot. Thus, introducing them to groomers at a young age and to tools like blow dryers and nail clippers can help achieve this goal of adapting to social environments. Furthermore, to improve their mental development, expose your puppy to new sights, sounds and smells to help their confidence improve. Goal: Crate Training Training your puppy to sleep or stay in a crate can be difficult at first as they might face separation anxiety. Crate training is necessary if you prefer sleeping alone or washing the utensils in the kitchen and need your puppy to stay in one place for a couple of minutes. Patience is key to achieving this goal. Help them get over their separation anxiety with the help of treats and toys. You can also use your crate for feeding purposes to help your pup get more acclimated to it. Goal: House Training A strict schedule can help get your dog house trained. When your pup is around 8 weeks old, it should be taken outside for a bathroom break every two hours or so. At 12 weeks, it should be taken every 3 hours and around 16 weeks, every 4 hours or so. Begin teaching your puppy how to eliminate on cue by looking for signs such as sniffing the floor or circling a particular spot, or going to an area where it has made a mess before. Using a command to push your puppy to go outside to relieve itself can be helpful. Remember to praise your pup when it obeys such actions. From 3 - 9 Months Goal: Obedience Training German Speherds are acutely intellectual and have a commendable work ethic. Training that has begun early and consistently can help your puppy's best traits and features emerge with time. Dogs of this breed are excellent at obeying commands, and you can begin this type of training by teaching basic commands such as stay, down, and up. They can even be trained to walk on a leash easily during this period. Goal: Recall When obedience training is done right, the goal of recalling or successfully calling your puppy to come to you becomes relatively easier. Achieving recall takes patience and practice. It should be done diligently and on a daily basis, using treats and toys as incentives. Achieving this goal can come in handy during emergency situations as well. Goal: Impulse Control German Shepherds are highly susceptible to boredom, often resulting in excessive and inappropriate chewing, barking, chasing, etc. They also have a tendency to chase down cars and even cats. Such impulses need to be controlled as they can otherwise lead to destructive and problematic behaviour. Training for impulse control simply means getting your puppy to pay attention to you when required. You can begin such type of training by getting your puppy to sit before eating or using commands during playtime, which makes them focus on your voice only. Treats and toys could be attractive incentives to encourage your pup to respond positively to commands. Feeding Your German Shepherd Puppy. Remember to follow the breeder's diet in the initial days and gradually change this diet to incorporate different foods. Milk should not be given to puppies at this age as it can cause diarrhoea. Puppies need to be given food rich in protein, calcium and fats as they are still growing. Their food needs to be higher in calories when compared to the food given to a grown dog. When you give your puppy a food bowl, give it a specific window of time to finish eating, such as 10 or 15 minutes. After this period, remove the bowl. This will help your pup understand that it has to eat during a specific period of time only, which is a valuable component of obedience training. Between 4 to 6 months of age, you can start feeding your puppy increased portions of food four times a day. Foods such as meat and vegetables would be ideal. Treats should only be resorted to during training and not as actual food for mealtimes. Make sure to never give leftover human food to puppies as they contain spices, salt, sugar and so on, which are very unhealthy for dogs. FAQs: Are german shepherd puppies hard to take care of? Not just german shepherds, all puppies are hard to take care of initially. This is because it is exactly like getting a newborn baby home. There will be sleepless nights, vet visits, training, creating and sticking to routines and so on. However, these efforts will eventually pay off, because once your pup is trained, they will be socialized and can adapt to your lifestyle easily. How many times should a german shepherd puppy eat a day? For up to four months, puppies should be fed three to four times a day. Post this period, gradually reduce the number of times your pup is fed. After eight to nine months, two meals a day will suffice. Where should my german shepherd sleep? German shepherds are highly sociable animals and should not be left alone for too long. Puppies should be trained to sleep in a crate or share the bed with you if you so desire. As they grow older, they can be allowed to sleep in a crate, or in an area specially designed for them. What are the best foods for german shepherd puppies? Like other puppies, they too require meals that are high in protein, grain-free, rich in good quality fats without any chemicals, artificial additives etc. Is it okay to feed a german Shephard 3 times a day? Up to eight to nine months of age, it is okay to feed your German Shepherd three times a day. However, feeding them twice a day is more than enough beyond this age. The amount of food ultimately depends on your dog's age, size, weight, and levels of physical activity. When do german shepherd puppies stop biting and jumping? It is perfectly normal for your puppy to constantly bite, chew, or jump for the first four to six months. However, while teething is normal, you must redirect your puppy to chew on toys and other things that are appropriate instead of household furniture. Do not wait to think issues will be resolved after months. Get professional help from day 1 to teach your pup the right behaviours. To train a German Shepherd puppy dog you must be consistent, kind and clear. German Shepherd dog puppies are divinely cute and for a reason! Just like babies are cute, puppies will win your heart even after destroying your favorite pair of shoes or that expensive carpet! Making sure you use them will start you on the right side of training and pave the road for you to get an obedient dog. The good news is that you do not need any special equipment to have an obedient GSD puppy. All you need is love and treats. The most important German Shepherd puppy training tip is socialization. Some vets will tell you to keep the pooch inside until the full set of vaccines is completed. Unfortunately, if you do keep your pooch safe inside until he is months of age, his socialization period will have closed forever and your chance to raise a friendly and confident dog drops significantly! That said, it is ultimately your decision whether you want to take the risk to take him outside or not. Most large US cities do not have too many disease problems and taking your puppy to a class where the trainer checks that every puppy has had the first set of shots is mostly safe. However, if you leave in a rural area, make sure there is not an outbreak of a disease that can affect your pooch. Of all the German Shepherd puppy training tips, I suggest you really think this one through. As a dog trainer, I recommend you find a safe puppy socialization class because this developmental period is critical to prevent behavior problems in the future. Apart from that, you also need to socialize your puppy daily on your own, this link will explain the process and give you a list of things to check as you go! Tip 2: Teach your German Shepherd puppy to use his mouth properly. You may have noticed that your German Shepherd puppy likes to chew on your shoes, toys, boxes, carpets, pillows, your hands…well, pretty much everything! Before you loose your mind and all your precious possessions let me tell you that this is normal puppy behavior. At this age dogs explore everything with their mouths and even though annoying, it is a great time to teach your pet what is appropriate for his mouth as well as how to soften the bite. The reason German Shepherd dog puppies have sharp teeth is because they are capable of learning how much or how little pressure to apply when biting different things. This is good news! To train a German Shepherd puppy to do this follow this link! Tip 3: Potty train your German Shepherd puppy the right way. Right around now you are also probably dealing with potty training, the best German Shepherd puppy training tips for potty training are outlined below. You should know how many times, and when to take you puppy out. I am sure you have heard all sorts of things against the use of food for training. To do this, you need to find the things that your dog likes most and use them as rewards. Food will be one of them, so use it. But also use anything else, like walks, petting, play time, toys, etc. So, of all the German shepherd puppy training tips here, I don't want to hear any excuses for this one! Done the right way, your pooch will respond to your command even when empty handed. Hope my website is helping you better understand and train your dog. Do you want to help? Be a modern philanthropist through Patreon. This is a hard concept to understand for us, clever human beings. When we learn something new, we can very easily generalize the concept to any situation, that is what makes us creative creatures. Fortunately, you have a German Shepherd puppy, they are clever and chances are they will need less repetitions than the average breed. To help you out on this matter, this link will take you to a step-by-step guide to train a reliable command. Tip 6: Train your German Shepherd puppy to ask for permission. Dog commands and fun and useful and you can probably find hundreds to teach your GSD. This one though - Ask for permission - is technically not a command, because you will not ask your canine to do it every time, instead you want to teach him to do it on his own every time the occasion requires it. Take time to do this with your puppy, it will be worth it! This is another one of the most important German Shepherd puppy training tips because a dog that asks for permission is an obedient and safe dog. To prevent a dog from jumping on people it is imperative to teach that same dog not to jump when he is a puppy. If he jumps again, then ignore again. When I say ignore, I mean it! No eye contact, no pushing or kneeing…nothing. Keep turning around if you have to. Pulling on the leash is another of those dog behaviors that people think come out of the blue, but actually they happen because there was never formal training done. To prevent pulling on the leash all you have to do is make sure your puppy understands that he gets rewarded food, petting, attention, verbal praise, keep on walking, etc. Pay close attention to what he does during those first few walks together and make sure you reward him for staying close to you! Got any German Shepherd puppy training tips to share with us? Tell us about them here! Those ideas came from research done in wolfs in captivity and have now been debunked by new research done in wolfs in the wild. The new research says that you need to be a good leader, kind of like a parent. Alphas are most often the parents of the group. Provide shelter, food, safety and limits. This article tells you more about it! Tip The best German Shepherd puppy training tip is… Reward good behavior and ignore bad behavior. This rule is amazing and will work wonders, besides it is really easy to apply, all you have to do is pay attention to your German Shepherd puppy and reward the good things he does. You need to figure out what the reward is and remove it. For example, when a dog is laying down, it is harder to bark. This Form cannot be submitted until the missing fields labelled below in red have been filled in What is your DOG's name? Please note that all fields followed by an asterisk must be filled in.