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Both parent breeds are well-liked in their own right since they are friendly and good with kids, creating a fantastic combination. Their climbing skills are just astounding. Try as you may; even with invisible barriers, you will not have much success. Dogs of the Great Pyrenees Boxer breed have an exceptionally high pain threshold and will not react negatively to an electric shock. You Want an Unrestrained Canine Great Pyrenees Boxer mixes are not the best choice if you want to take your dog on lengthy beach walks or hikes in the woods with you. Dogs of the Great Pyrenees Boxer breed, in particular, must always be on a leash. However, Greater Pyrenees Boxer pups can still be instructed because they tend to be more creative than adults. You and your livestock are the priority; therefore, they will devote all their attention to that. Nonetheless, this fact does not exclude the possibility of training them. They need rigorous intellectual stimulation because of their extraordinary intelligence. You Like a Properly-Maintained Lawn or at Least One with No Huge Craters It would help if you considered whether you want a Great Pyrenees Boxer mix before buying one since the dog will dig up your yard to the point that it looks like a moonscape. Their favorite spot is right smack in the middle of the yard. Also, are you prepared to repeatedly sprain your ankles or knees as you trudge the yard? They need frequent brushing at least once a week , and it might take a while to go through all of their furs. It takes about half a day to groom a dog, including a bath, brushing entirely, and clipping of ears, nails, teeth, and paws. Its coat attracts everything, and it brings it all within. And there will be more leaves than fur about the home on certain days. Despite their low trainability, we admire their shrewdness and intuition. As a result, they have almost no doggie odor. Sensitive Great Pyrenees Boxer mixes are already adorable because of their size and strength, but their surprisingly soft hearts make them much more so. Beauty Incredible beauty characterizes the Great Pyrenees Boxer. Broad Personality In an instant, the Great Pyrenees Boxer may be a cuddly lapdog and a vigilant watchdog in the next. Gentle They were bred to get along with pets of various shapes and sizes. Versatile There is no right or wrong method to raise a Great Pyrenees Boxer mix. Also, the dog lives in the city and serves as a therapy pup. The temperaments of the parent breeds are quite similar, making this hybrid an actual one-of-a-kind creation. They do not shed too much and are safe for anyone with allergies. Upon first contact, they instantly bond as pals. Great Pyrenees and boxers live for about the same amount of time, around ten years. Due to their diminutive stature, these canines tend to live longer than their larger counterparts. They form a unique connection with their people and the world, and their loss would be deeply felt. Great Pyrenees Boxer Mix Color Great Pyrenees Boxer mixes may be anything from all white to mostly white with tan or gray patterns on the ears, head, and tail. Height and weight are often between 21 and 32 inches and 53 and pounds, respectively. However, regular brushing might help calm the shedding of your Great Pyrenees. As a result, their costs tend to be higher than those of other types of canines. They come at a hefty price. Grooming Your Great Pyrenees Boxer Mix Great Pyrenees-Boxer mixes have thick coats that need to be brushed many times each week and trimmed sometimes to prevent matting and shedding. Great Pyrenees Boxer mix Health Problems Although certain dog breeds are more predisposed to certain diseases, every dog is at risk of developing a heritable illness. However, the one advantage of owning a puppy is that you can prevent this from happening as often as possible. Pups should be sold with some health assurance from their breeder. If they refuse, go on to another breeder. The incidence and prevalence of breed-specific health issues will be discussed openly by a respectable breeder. We strongly suggest you hunt for a reliable local animal shelter to adopt your new mutt. Epilepsy, Boxer cardiomyopathy, and hypothyroidism are potential health issues that could arise from breeding the Great Pyrenees and the Boxer. Please note that these are not breed-specific issues; rather, they are issues that are prevalent in both. Great Pyrenees Boxer Food Requirement Dietary decisions are often made on an individual canine basis. Each one is distinct and has various nutritional needs. And in the United States, the majority of dogs are obese. The early introduction of fish oil, glucosamine, and chondroitin add-ons is highly recommended for this particular dog breed like this one, which is predisposed to elbow and hip dysplasia. Overfeeding any dog is not smart as it may severely worsen health concerns. Great Pyrenees Boxer Mix Exercise Requirements Make it a point to take them on strenuous outings like lengthy walks and treks so that they may burn off some of their excess energy. This combination will almost certainly have a high amount of energy. They will be less likely to engage in damaging behavior due to this activity. A weary dog is a friendly dog. However, ensure you never leave your dog indoors; this practice is harsh and unfair to the animal. Great Pyrenees Boxer Mix Training This is an intelligent dog, but it will be a little difficult to teach. They will be urged to assume leadership roles and respond best to a strong, steady hand. Splitting the lessons into many shorter daily sessions is ideal if you want to maintain their attention for longer. It may have a prey drive and be inclined to go after and chase tiny animals, but this behavior may be controlled with appropriate training and socialization. Positive reinforcement is the most effective method of training for canine companions. She is an intelligent dog eager to please and enjoys a good workout. In other words, be sure to congratulate her on her accomplishments. She will find it much simpler to train if she exercises more. Dogs and pups, especially, need to be appropriately socialized. It would be best if you took her to the park and doggie daycare to associate with other people and dogs. They are warm and welcoming companions, and their loyalty is unwavering. Great Pyrenees Boxer mixes are tender towards everything, which is weak and small. Children of all ages should be taught proper pet protocol before interacting with dogs of any kind, and adults should always be present to avoid any unwanted biting or pulling of ears or tails. In no circumstances should a dog, no matter how tame, be left alone with a youngster. When properly introduced, a Great Pyrenees Box mix can get along with just about any other dog breed. The Great Pyrenees Boxer mixes are great companions if you reside in a suburban area and lead a moderately easy-going life. And unlike their parents, these mixed-breeds are alleged to have a less genetically inherited health challenge than purebreds. Plus, they love having a quiet time within the house and enjoying a foreseeable, systematic routine. And their guarding nature makes socialization critical. So, if you can fulfill all these, you can get yourself a Great Pyrenees Boxer mix. I am passionate about all things related to fluffy dogs and love sharing my knowledge with others. I first discovered my passion for fluffy dogs when I adopted a Shih Tzu over 10 years ago, and I have been an avid fan ever since. Post navigation. Bellini is a 10 week old Pyr mix, looks like Dad might have been Boxer?! Bellini is a very smart, highly independent little girl who loves chewing on her foster brother and taking naps in the middle of the room. She gets along great with everyone; humans, other dogs, and even cats. They must be family pets that are allowed inside the home. This helps integrate the dog into your household easier by giving the pup a mentor. Please do not apply for a puppy if you are gone hours a day. It is not good situation for you or the puppy. Secure visible fencing required. If it is posted, it is available. BUT, we may be working other applications that came in before yours. If so, by the time you are approved, the puppy may not be available. If you write, it will delay your application and put you to the back of the line. All the persons processing applications are volunteers that have their own dogs, families and job responsibilities. We do our best to get applications done quickly but applications for adult dogs come before puppy applications. There is always someone that will want to adopt a puppy. Northwest a dopter pays cost of transport to independent transport service. There are many things you can do to help: 1. If this Gentle Giant looks like the one for you, fill out an adoption application today! This is a temporary commitment that gives all needy dogs the time needed to find the loving home they deserve. Your generous decision to foster can literally mean the difference between whether they live or die. Vet bills. These can sometimes run into the thousands per dog. Every penny counts when it comes to vet bills! As always, all donations are gratefully accepted. Spay and neuter your pets. Lambert September 19, Great Pyrenees boxer mix is a cross breed of two famous dog breeds. Great Pyrenees dog breed and a boxer dog breed when bred together, their mix can be obtained. Both of the parent breeds are popular ones. Both of the parent breeds are family oriented dogs and are great with children. So, their mix is a combo blast. They are very easy to groom and train. They are fast learners. But there is one thing people do not like much, which is their barking. They bark or howl oftentimes which may annoy anyone. As the parent breeds resemble a lot by temperament, so their mix is a unique combination of two breeds. They are hypoallergenic and do not Shed much. They are very friendly and like to meet new people. They make friends at the first meeting. They are family oriented dogs. Super friendly with the kids. Not only with kids, they are also friendly with other pets. They do not like being ignored. They need the attention of their people. They are not very good with strangers. In fact they bark on them. Great Pyrenees Boxer Mix Size When we talk about the size and appearance of great Pyrenees boxer mix, they are beautiful and small to medium sized dogs. The average size calculated is 21 to 32 inches in height and 53 lbs. Great Pyrenees Boxer Mix Life Span Great Pyrenees boxer mix is a hybrid breed and hybrid breeds usually live longer than the parent breeds. The average life span of great Pyrenees is 10 to 12 years and the life span of boxer is also 10 to 12 years. So the life expectancy of their mix breed is 10 to 15 years. They are small sized dogs and small sized dogs usually have longer life span than large sized dogs. They create a special bond with their people and other people, and people do not want to lose them forever. They can be found at some specific locations and from some specific spots. Some people like to adopt them from a well known breeder. Because breeders have the information about all breeds and they can breed according to the demand of people. They can guide people about the temperament of the mix dog breed. But the best point to adopt a great Pyrenees boxer mix is rescue center. They can be adopted from a rescue center without any issue. Usually the dogs at rescue centers are already trained. So their prices are usually high as compare to other dog breeds. They are quite expensive. The average cost calculated is U. S dollars to U. S dollars. Meet Karl! Currently weighs over 50 lbs. Great Pyrenees were bred centuries ago to work with shepherds and herding dogs in the Pyrenees Mountains of Spain. Great Pyrenees are an immensely powerful working dog, bred for their protective natures. Their courage when defending the flock has always been legendary. Karl, as is true to his breed, is a vigilant guardian of his home and family. Karl does well with other dogs, especially puppies, and would do well with another calm centered dog in the home that can help him gain confidence in new situations. Karl is potty trained and crate trained. Given the opportunity he would love to sleep in bed with his human! He is very sweet and lovable, and completely devoted to the people he feels are his family. He does not always do well with strangers, and for this reason we are looking for a quiet home with no children and a LOW traffic level of visitors. Karl is also neutered. All puppies will be adopted with current, age appropriate vaccines, given by Peppermint Pig Animal Rescue. Karl has received all of his puppy series of shots. Karl is already neutered. Karl has a 2 hour adoption radius because vaccinations and neuter are complete. Please complete your adoption application in advance so our volunteers have time to screen and contact potential adopters. A volunteer will contact you if you are selected for a meet with adoptable pet. Final approval is always made in person. Peppermint Pig Animal Rescue is a no-kill rescue. Please consider sponsoring a pet or donating to our cause.

Find out how we get chocolate, black or yellow puppies and what color pups we might get when we mix Labradors of different colors. Strictly speaking, there are only three different types of Labrador color: black Labs, brown Labs usually referred to as chocolate and yellow Labs. These are the three colors recognized and accepted by the Kennel Club In practice, there is a wide range of shades of yellow Labrador color, from palest cream to richest fox red. But what makes a Labrador brown, or black, or yellow. And what about Silver Labradors? Where does this new and controversial coat color come in to play? Where do Black and Chocolate Labradors come from? The information that determines whether or not your Labrador is basically black or basically chocolate is passed on through a pair of genes. Why black is a dominant color: It is normal for dominant genes to switch off, or over-ride, recessive genes. And that is exactly what happens here. A dog with BB genes will be black, because he has no little b gene, the one that gives us a brown coat. But a Bb dog will be black too, because if the dominant black gene is present, it switches off the brown gene. How chocolate Labradors are made: Even though a dog inherits a little b gene, the dog will only appear brown if no black gene B is present at all. Two black genes BB gives you a black Labrador One of each Bb also give you a black Labrador Two brown genes bb gives you a chocolate Labrador Remember that the black dominant gene always switches of the brown gene, so only the dog at the bottom will actually look brown. Generation after generation of black dogs can continue to have only black puppies if dogs with the Bb gene are only ever mated to dogs with BB genes. Remember, the dog in the middle of our list above will look black, but pass the brown gene on to about half of all its offspring. But things are never that simple are they? Because of course some Labradors are neither black nor brown. The genetic information that creates a yellow coat comes from another pair of genes altogether. And these genes have a different kind of power. The result is a yellow dog But little ee is recessive, and if the dominant E gene is present, it switches off the masking gene. It only takes one big E gene to do this. So the dog will only appear yellow if no big E gene is present at all. There are three possible combinations of eee gene that a dog could inherit. There are nine different possible combinations. Nine different possible Labrador genotypes! The chart below lists them genotype is the genetic makeup, phenotype is the appearance of the dog. Do Labrador Dog Colors Matter? The three different shades of Labrador are often associated with different roles. The yellow Labrador has become associated with Seeing Eye dogs, the black Labrador with hunting and retrieving work and the chocolate Labrador with pet homes and the show ring. But of course these are just broad generalisations and in reality, Labradors of each color have embraced all the many roles at which these amazing dogs excel. Labrador Color Inheritance There are three main Labrador colors, and a huge variety of shades of color too. To find out much more about where these Labrador colors came from, and how they inherited their lovely coats, head over to our in-depth article on Labrador color inheritance. Yellow Labradors Yellow Labradors are well known for a variety of roles, but perhaps best of all for being Service Dogs. They are nice tempered, easy to train and full of love. Although popular for highly trained roles, and of course very photogenic and therefore frequently used on charities literature, the yellow Labrador can still make a magnificant pet and be popular in the show ring too. These dogs tend to come from working lines, and have a more orange hue to their coats. They are still classed however on Kennel Club documentation as yellow Labradors. Fawn Labradors In recent years some people have begun to refer to yellow Labradors as fawn Labradors. If your Lab pup color is slightly darker than the traditional yellow, but not as orange as a Fox Red Labrador, you might well refer to him as being a Fawn Labrador. However, this is not an official Labrador color, nor indeed is it really one which is referred to by Labrador breeders in the way that Fox Red now is. Black Labradors Black Labradors have long been favoured as gundogs, but also make wonderful pets, companions and agility dogs too. They are the most common color of Labrador, due to the way in which their genes are inherited. Chocolate Labradors Chocolate Labradors make great family pets, as well as playing a role in the Show Ring. In America, chocolate Labradors are quite firmly established in hunting lines. However, it is worth bearing in mind that in the UK, Chocolate Labradors have only recently been achieving awards in the field. Black and yellow Labradors still taking more prominence at least in Field Trial circuits. In our extensive article on Chocolate Labradors we will let you know all about the chocolate Labrador. Where he comes from, his pet suitability and much more. Silver Labradors Silver Labradors are a fairly new trend in Labrador breeding. This amazing color inspires a lot of comments from Labrador fans, both positive and negative. The color varation from chocolate is caused by a diluting gene, but how this got into the breed is the source of some controversy. In our extensive article on Silver Labradors we take a look at where they come from and how to buy a healthy silver Labrador Retriever puppy. Some people have a strong preference for a particular color, but others are quite happy with either. If you are not fussy about color, you will have more choice of Labrador breeders to put on your shortlist when setting about choosing the right dog. Although you might love one particular color to look at, do think carefully about your prorities when it comes to picking a puppy. Perhaps what really matters is your Labradors breeding: his parents temperaments, roles and health. Show vs Field Bred Labradors Whatever your preference, it is worth bearing in mind that Labradors have become divided into two quite distinct types, show, and field. Finding a suitable dog will probably depend more on choosing the right type, than on choosing the right color. With some you will have more choice in one type rather than the other. And with some types you will have more choice in one color than the others. To find out more about the differences between show and working bred Labradors, check out this article comparing the Bench and Field varieties of Labrador here. Rescue Labradors When picking your new Labrador, you might be looking for an adult rather than a puppy. Below are facts about the Blonde Labrador. Blonde Labrador Origins The Labrador originated in Newfoundland from a medium sized dog which was imported to England and bred to retrieve game and fish. The labs we know today became common in England by .The first yellow Labrador appeared in .Today, they are desired by dog owners all around the globe. The original purpose of the Labrador The Labrador was originally bred as a working dog for retrieving objects from the water. They were later bred as hunting dogs and then as show dogs. Today, they are mainly used as family pets. However, they can still be used for working purposes such as search and rescue or as assistance dogs for the disabled. Their keen sense of smell and their friendly nature make them ideal for these types of jobs. Is the Blonde Labrador a recognized breed standard? However, yellow is a recognized breed standard. Again, yellow is a breed standard. According to the breed standard, established by the Labrador Retriever Club, Inc. Those colors are yellow, black, and chocolate. What causes Blonde Labradors to be Blonde? The Yellow color in Labradors is caused by an ee gene. The following are the possible gene combinations that can cause a yellow Labrador: eeBB eeBb eebb Light yellow Labradors can be caused when a modifier gene causes the coat to be a lighter blonde type color or when a dilution gene is present. A blonde Labrador can be born if neither parents are actually blonde in appearance. Are Blonde Labradors different to other labradors? Blonde Labradors are not any different to other Labradors other than having a different coat color. The only exception to this is if the dog has a diluted coat, which is a disqualifying trait for shows. In this case, the coat may lighten over time. However, for most Blonde Labradors, the coat will remain a Blonde color. Also, yellow labrador puppies will often have a much lighter appearance and will usually change to a darker yellow as they get older. Coat color As mentioned, blonde can refer to a yellow labrador, an English Cream Labrador, a light yellow labrador or a Champagne Labrador. Height Yello Labradors are typically between 21 and 24 inches tall at the shoulder, which is the equivalent of about 2 feet. They can weigh anywhere from 55 to 80 pounds. Most Labradors are a little bit longer than they are tall, with a body that is slightly longer than their height. This gives them a somewhat rectangular appearance. Labradors are considered a medium to large breed of dog. Male Labradors are usually slightly taller and heavier than females. Females typically range from 21 to 23 inches tall and 55 to 70 pounds. Male Labradors can be up to 24 inches tall and 80 pounds. Eye shape and color The eye shape of a Blonde Labrador Retriever is typically almond-shaped, although the exact shape may vary depending on the individual dog. The almond shape is thought to be ideal for the breed because it allows the dog to have good binocular vision while still allowing them to see a wide range of movement. The eye color of a Labrador Retriever is typically brown, although it may also be hazel or blonde. The eye rims should be blonde in color, although this may be brown in some Blonde-colored dogs. Head shape The head shape of a Labrador is unique compared to other dogs. They have a broad forehead and a narrow back of the head. They also have a distinct occiput at the back of the head for protection. American Labs typically have a narrower face, while English Labs have a blockier head shape. The head shape of a Labrador is affected by the type of Lab and their purpose. For example, English Labs used for shows have a blockier head shape, while American Labs used for hunting have a narrower head shape. Blonde Labradors also have floppy ears just like all other Labradors. Tail shape The Labrador retriever has a thick, tapering tail that is covered in dense fur. The tail is an important working component of the breed, and is used to help the dog swim and navigate in water. Fur length Labradors have a short, dense coat of fur that is water-resistant. How much does a Blonde labrador cost? What influences the price of a Blonde Labrador? The quality of the dog also plays a role in determining price, with purebred dogs typically costing more than mixed breed dogs. The price of a labrador can also vary depending on the city in which you purchase the dog, as well as the reputation of the breeder. Registration has a significant impact on price as well. However, the registration process requires health testing. Purchasing an unregistered pooch carries a higher health risk. Lastly, the pedigree of the dog has a large impact on price. A Labrador with a prestigious bloodline will cost much more than the average Labrador. How much does a Blonde Labrador cost to keep? This cost will increase as your dog gets older and will need more medical care. It is important to budget for unexpected expenses, such as emergency vet visits, as well. It is important to compare plans and find the one that best suits your needs and budget. This cost is generally lower when performed by a shelter or rescue organization. It is unlikely that you will have trouble finding a blonde Labrador in your area. Blonde Labrador Life expectancy Below are details about the lifespans of Blonde Labradors and the factors that influence the lifespan. How long do Blonde Labradors live for? The average lifespan of Labrador Retrievers is said to be 10 to 12 years including blonde Labs. However, current research suggests that chocolate labs may be more likely to live for only years on average. The oldest known Labrador was Adjutant that lived to the age of 27 in the United Kingdom from to .There are several factors that affect how long your Labrador will live. Genetic testing before breeding can help keep the breed healthy. Your choice of breeder is essential if you want to get a dog that may be less likely to experience health issues and have a shorter lifespan. Lifestyle is also important. Living indoors also increases life expectancy. This is because indoor dogs are less likely to have accidents or injuries. They typically receive more care and attention as well. Blonde Labrador Health The most common health conditions of Labrador retrievers are obesity, ear infections, joint conditions, and heart disease. Joint problems, including arthritis and hip and elbow dysplasia, are also common in the breed. A reputable breeder will be able to provide proof of genetic testing, like hip and elbow scores, for both parents to help you choose a healthy dog. Friendliness of Blonde Labradors Blonde Labradors, like all Labradors, are extremely friendly dogs that love to be around people. They are also very affectionate. This also means that they are not the best dog for if you are not going to be home a lot since they do not like being alone regularly or for long periods. Also, Blonde Labradors are very similar to other labrador retriever colors in terms of personality and temperament. Energy of Blonde Labradors. Blonde labradors are extremely energetic and require daily exercise and mental stimulation as will be discussed below. Intelligence of Blonde Labradors Blonde Labradors are very intelligent dogs. They are easy to train and can be your best buddy in the home. Confidence of Blonde Labradors Blonde labradors are confident dogs that are not afraid to take risks. This means that they are confident in their abilities and are not afraid to take on new challenges. This can be a great trait in a family pet, as they can be a lot of fun to have around. However, it is important to make sure that you are able to provide them with enough exercise and stimulation, as they can become bored easily. However, they are also obedient and trainable. There is no denying that Blonde labradors are very active dogs who need lots of exercise, but they are also gentle, adaptable, playful, and sociable, which is what makes the labrador breed so popular. Labrador dogs are known for being one of the most gentle dogs and one of the least aggressive dogs. Prey drive of Blonde Labradors Blonde Labradors as with regular Labradors are known to have a moderate prey drive. This means that they may chase small animals, but they are not likely to hurt them. With proper training, Blonde labradors can learn to control their prey drive and coexist peacefully with other animals. However, it is important to be aware of their prey drive and to supervise them around small animals, just to be safe. Can a Labrador be left alone for long? Labradors are not a breed that should be left alone for long time periods regularly. This is because they are a very social breed that also needs a lot of exercise. Blonde Labradors can be left alone for up to 8 hours, provided they have a comfortable and secure space to stay in. They should also have access to food, water, and mentally stimulating toys. However, it is ideal to leave them alone for no more than hours at a time. Puppies should be left for even less time, with one hour for each month of age being the maximum. Older dogs may be able to tolerate being left alone for longer periods of time, but it is still best to not leave them alone for more than 8 hours. If you must leave them alone for longer periods of time, consider hiring a dog walker or enrolling them in doggy daycare. Additionally, make sure they are properly exercised before leaving them alone. Finally, be sure to gradually increase the amount of time they are left alone so they can adjust. How Blonde Labs react to strangers Labradors are generally very good natured and even tempered. Although they can be excitable at times, they tend to be very friendly with strangers. Blonde Labradors with dogs and other animals Blonde Labradors are generally very good around other dogs if they are trained to be social properly. If they are properly socialized from a young age, they will be polite and outgoing with other dogs, and will likely be one of the most popular dogs at the dog park. Blonde Labradors as a family pet Blonde labradors are known to be great family pets. They are intelligent, affectionate, and friendly, and they usually get along well with children and other pets. And all of these characteristics apply to labs of all coat colors, including Blonde. How much attention do Blonde labradors need? As mentioned, Labradors need regular stimulation because they are an energetic dog breed and they need regular daily exercise. If you want a low maintenance dog, a Labrador likely is not the best option, especially since they are meant to get 2 hours of daily exercise. Are Blonde Labradors hypoallergenic? No, Blonde Labradors are not hypoallergenic. They are a high-shedding breed and will shed moderately all year round. They are not a good choice for owners that suffer from dog allergies. How easily do Blonde Labradors gain weight? Blonde Labradors are prone to obesity, so they can gain weight easily if their food intake is not monitored. It is important to give them treats in moderation and to make sure they are getting enough exercise. How to care for a Blonde Labrador Blonde labradors need at least 2 hours of exercise per day! This can be broken up throughout the day. They also need regular training sessions in their puppy stage. You may also want a pair, rather than a single Labrador. Two Labradors can play with each other, which reduces the amount of exercise you have to provide. Labradors are master escape artists. Labradors have a beautiful double coat, which requires frequent care. Start with a comb, and work out any tangles. Then, use a paddle brush to remove any dirt or oil. Start with the undercoat, and then brush the top coat. Blonde Labradors will shed when the seasons start to change in the Fall and Spring. During this time, you should brush them daily. This will help remove excess hair, and speed up the process. This is the best way to avoid everything in your home turning brown due to Lab hair. Active adult Labradors will need to eat around calories per day. It is best to feed them regular dog food twice per day as adults. How easy to train are Blonde labradors? Blonde labradors are considered to be relatively easy to train, especially when compared to other dog breeds. This is due to their high intelligence and their eagerness to please their owners. However, it is important to note that Blonde labs may be a bit stubborn at first and can easily become distracted. Therefore, it is important to start training them as young as possible, using positive reinforcement methods such as treats, toys, and affection. With consistency and repeated training, Blonde labradors can learn a wide variety of commands and tasks. Additionally, some apartment complexes do not allow certain breeds, including Labradors, so it is important to check with your landlord before bringing home a new dog. Hot weather can be dangerous for labs, as they are prone to heat stroke. It is important to provide plenty of cold water and shade for a lab in hot weather, and to limit their time outdoors during the hottest hours. In cold weather, labradors should have access to a heat source and fresh water. How do you buy a Blonde Labrador? Below are details about how to buy a Blonde Labrador. Where to buy a Blonde Labrador Breeder Registries The simplest way to find a reputable breeder is through breeder registries. These registries have high standards that breeders must meet to be included, which eliminates unethical breeders. The AKC has a Labrador breeder registry. Finding Reputable Breeders You can certainly find reputable breeders outside breeder registries, but it requires more caution. These are less expensive than those bred for shows. Breeders who sell registered puppies are generally ethical. What do they do to ensure the health of their dogs? How do they select breeding pairs? An ethical breeder will always focus on the health and temperament of the dogs, instead of focusing on colors or other characteristics that bring the most money. You should also expect them to ask you questions. Reputable breeders want to be sure their dogs are going to good homes.

Elbow Dysplasia Overview Canine elbow dysplasia is a common disorder and has been shown to be more prevalent than hip dysplasia in some breeds. The problem is a congenital, hereditary disease affecting young dogs, usually under one year of age. This mal-alignment causes abnormal pressure or joint loading, and chronic rubbing which wears away the cartilage resulting in severe osteoarthritis. Elbow dysplasia can be broken down into numerous underlying pathologies such as fragmented medial coronoid process, osteochondritis dissecans and medial compartment syndrome just to name a few. Definitive diagnosis is made via CT scanning and arthroscopic examination. Some cases can be treated entirely with arthroscopic procedures. Clinical signs of elbow dysplasia The primary clinical sign of canine elbow dysplasia is limping or lameness. Head bobbing at a fast walk or slow trot is typical of front limb lameness. The lameness is usually not recognizable at a run. Some dogs with elbow dysplasia are reluctant to go for long walks or play for long periods of time. Dogs with elbow dysplasia also have limited range of motion ROM in the elbow joints and have pain on elbow extension and flexion. The limited ROM may cause discomfort and difficulty when lying down in sternal position. Diagnosis of elbow dysplasia The diagnosis of canine elbow dysplasia is based on physical examination, radiographs X-rays , computerized tomography CT Scan and ultimately arthroscopy. The surgeons at CCOR can make a fairly accurate diagnosis of elbow dysplasia and discuss the next steps based on physical examination and simple X-rays alone. CT scanning is often needed for the ultimate, final treatment plan. Arthroscopy is used both as a diagnostic tool and to treat elbow dysplasia. Treatment options for elbow dysplasia The treatment options for canine elbow dysplasia depend on the actual definitive diagnosis. Non-surgical treatments include pain management, physical therapy, nutraceuticals such as glucosamine, and various intra-articular injections. All of these options may be indicated in older dogs, or in conjunction with arthroscopic treatments, but none of the above listed treatments address the underlying problem. A common misconception regarding joint injections stem cells, PRP, etc. Intra-articular injections joint injections are commonly performed but with somewhat variable clinical results. Stem cells, platelet rich plasma PRP , hyaluronic acid HA and glucocorticoid steroids are the typical products injected. Recent studies have shown clinical improvement in some dogs with elbow dysplasia treated with PRP. The duration of improvement is currently unknown, but a best guess would be 6 months. Colorado Canine Orthopedics has extensive experience with intra-articular joint injections and we would be happy to discuss the pros and cons of joint injections for individual patients. Surgical treatment options can be broken down into arthroscopic treatments, osteotomies bone cuts to realign the bones, or a combination of both. Virtually all board certified surgeons agree that dogs with elbow dysplasia require a thorough arthroscopic examination both to evaluate pathology and provide treatment. The arthroscope usually mm in diameter is passed through the opening and into the joint. Joint visualization via magnified arthroscopy is incredibly thorough comparted to open joint inspection which is minimal at best. Bone and cartilage fragments and other joint debris can be identified and removed via arthroscopy. Dogs undergoing arthroscopic elbow surgery have a fair to excellent prognosis depending on the exact diagnosis, degree of incongruency and existing osteoarthritis OA. Nearly all surgeons agree our best defense against progressive OA is to obtain an accurate diagnosis CT and arthroscopic examination , remove any free fragments and minimize abnormal joint contact. Overall, the majority of dogs with elbow problems lead a fairly normal life although some degree of OA is inevitable. Fragmented medial coronoid process Fragmented coronoid process is a subset of elbow dysplasia that affects large and giant breed dogs, particularly Retrievers, Rottweilers, Mastiffs, Bernese Mountain dogs, and German Shepherd dogs. Malalignment and overloading of the medial innermost aspect of the joint compartment are believed to be key in this pathology. Loading or abnormal weight bearing on the medial compartment leads to concurrent cartilage erosions often full thickness and possible fragmentation of the medial coronoid. Diagnosis of fragmented coronoid process and medial compartment disease can be challenging. Radiographs are helpful but not definitive. In our opinion, arthroscopy is the ideal modality for the diagnosis of fragmented coronoid process because it allows accurate diagnosis and treatment of the fragment, as well as cartilage assessment. Traditional open surgery to diagnose fragmented coronoid is antiquated. First and foremost, the surgical approach to the elbow joint that affords the surgeon a thorough inspection is invasive and has moderate post-operative morbidity. Secondly, the arthroscopic visualization of key structures is far superior to an invasive surgical approach. Treatment of fragmented coronoid process in mild cases involves arthroscopic removal of the fragmented bone and cartilage. Arthroscopy is fast, effective, and minimally invasive. Arthroscopic treatment takes between 15 and 30 minutes per elbow and virtually all dogs can be treated on an outpatient basis. In mild cases the prognosis for return to normal activity is excellent. Most dogs return to normal activity within a few weeks to a few months with little or no lameness. In moderate cases, the coronoid process is both fragmented and abnormal in size and shape, cartilage erosion is present on both the medial humeral condyle and the non-fragmented portion of the remaining medial coronoid. In these situations, the fragment is removed and a partial coronoidectomy is performed arthroscopically. An ulnar osteotomy may also be performed in moderate cases. The prognosis for moderate cases of fragmented coronoid process is less certain. If the aforementioned treatments are performed and the cartilage is in fair condition, many dogs have no or minimal lameness and the progression of arthritis is slow. Medial compartment disease In the majority of dogs with chronic severe elbow dysplasia, all of the cartilage on the medial innermost aspect of the joint is worn away, resulting in what is now termed medial compartment disease. Unfortunately, this degree of osteoarthritis is difficult to successfully treat. Arthroscopy can be used to remove any free fragments and the joint. Several osteotomies such as proximal dynamic ulnar osteotomy and PAUL procedure can also be used to treat medial compartment syndrome with variable results. Platelet rich plasma has shown some promise for short term improvement but will not promote cartilage regrowth. Elbow replacement is available, and has been performed at CCOR, but the procedure is new and long-term results are not yet available. Canine osteochondritis dissecans OCD Osteochondritis Dissecans OCD is a juvenile bone disease that can affect the shoulder, stifle, tarsal and elbow joints of young dogs. Osteochondritis Dissecans is a subset of osteochondrosis. Osteochondrosis is a failure of endochondral ossification; the process by which most bones grow and involves juvenile cartilage being replaced by bone. This failure of cartilage becoming bone results in overly thick joint cartilage adjacent to the joint figure 1. The deepest layer of this thickened cartilage is inadequately nourished resulting in cell death figure 2. Cartilage debris and inflammatory mediators are released into the joint fluid and inflammation ensues. Elbow OCD affects young large and giant breed dogs. Limping is the common clinical sign. Many dogs have pain on elbow flexion and extension, as well as limited range of motion. Radiographs are helpful in diagnosing OCD, but CT scanning and arthroscopy are used for definitive diagnosis. Treatment for elbow OCD involves arthroscopic debridement followed by a cartilage grafting procedure called osteochondral autograph transfer system OATS. Artificial cartilage plugs Synacart by Arthrex can also be used to fill the defect. Some forms of biological treatment such as platelet rich plasma or stem cells have also been advocated but will not result in cartilage regeneration despite claims made by some. Canine ununited anconeal process UAP Ununited anconeal process UAP is an elbow disorder most often affecting young German Shepherds, although it can be seen in almost any breed. The underlying problem is not clearly understood. UAP may be associated with malalignment of the elbow joint or a genetic juvenile bone disorder called osteochondrosis. The most common clinical signs are limping and swelling of the elbow joint. Clinical signs usually appear at about months of age. Radiography, CT scan and arthroscopy are used to make the diagnosis. Treatment options include arthroscopy, ulnar osteotomy, fragment removal or fragment re-attachment. Treatment should be initiated as soon as the diagnosis is made. The prognosis is fair to good. Cost of elbow disorder treatments Veterinary specialty care is a double-edged sword these days no pun intended. All major orthopedic procedures are more sophisticated, successful, and less invasive today than they were in the past. These advances come at a cost for the surgeon and client. Fees for elbow arthroscopy includes anesthesia and monitoring, nerve blocks when needed, and routine go home medication. Radiographs and CT scans are charged for separately and should be discussed at the time of the initial consultation. Osteotomies, when required, are charged for separately and should be discussed on a case by case basis. At Colorado Canine Orthopedics we are committed to providing only state of the art, non-compromised pet healthcare. We realize some pet owners may find this level of care relatively costly. However, despite the inherently expensive nature of our work, we are dedicated to providing the highest level of care at the most affordable price possible. We believe if you compare our fees to other specialty practices you will find this true. Back to Top. Elbow dysplasia Elbow lameness: In a young dog, a deformed elbow may be the problem The term dysplasia refers to a developmental defect, where abnormal cells appear in a particular type of tissue or organ. And while hip dysplasia tends to get the headlines for canine orthopedic health, elbow dysplasia can be equally debilitating. Elbow dysplasia is the second-most common cause of elbow lameness in dogs. The first is osteoarthritis, which can be associated with elbow dysplasia. Breed prevalence Rottweilers, Labrador Retrievers, German Shepherd Dogs, Golden Retrievers and Chow Chows head the list of breeds with a high prevalence of this orthopedic problem, but any dog can suffer from elbow dysplasia. Large dogs are most likely to develop it, but Pugs are second on the prevalence list produced by the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Elbow dysplasia is a genetic ailment, so breeders are encouraged not to use affected dogs in their breeding programs. While elbow dysplasia cannot be cured, it can be well-managed. With surgery and the appropriate medical management, many dogs have a good long-term prognosis. Some dogs will start refusing to exercise, with a noticeable decrease in their overall activity level. Dogs with this defect often move by turning their paw inward, noticeably holding their elbow out from the body in an attempt to shift weight off the sore part of the joint. If your dog has elbow dysplasia only on one side of their body, you or your veterinarian may notice their lameness earlier. That is the clinical picture if both elbows are affected but one side hurts more than the other. If both elbows are equally affected, then it can be more difficult to pick up on lameness. Most dogs will try to compensate with a shortened stride, and the range of motion in their joints is generally reduced. Another clue is if you see your dog manipulating their leg by extending and flexing the elbow joint — an action that is often associated with pain. Even with a more stoic dog, owners may notice some swelling of affected elbow joints along with abnormal warmth in the area. In dogs, the elbow joint involves three bones: the humerus, ulna and radius. These bones must all work together perfectly to give your dog pain-free movement in their elbow joint. Diagnosis True elbow dysplasia will not be diagnosed before 4 to 6 months of age, when the growth plates in joints are still closing. Most dogs are a couple of months older before a clear-cut diagnosis is made. Most dogs are diagnosed with elbow dysplasia by physical examination and by doing a thorough lameness evaluation at 4 to 12 months of age. In mild cases, however, affected dogs may not show lameness until 7 or 8 years of age, when arthritis kicks in. Diagnosing an elbow problem requires a thorough lameness exam with radiographs. Flexed views of both elbows can show defective areas and identify early arthritic changes. A CT scan and arthroscopic surgery to look into the joint are used to guide diagnosis and therapy. Treatment As with so many health problems, early intervention is best. For mild cases of elbow dysplasia, the goal of surgery is to remove any damaged tissues, which will often help to relieve pain, at least temporarily. Dogs with moderate-to-severe elbow deformities may need extensive surgery to realign the malformed elbow joint. A new option for dogs is surgical elbow replacement, a very difficult, expensive option. There are several elbow replacement systems available, but they all come with very serious complications. We are still diligently working on improving surgical approach and implant designs to reduce complications. Follow-up rehabilitation will be critical. Prevention For any puppy, but especially ones with a greater risk for any orthopedic defect, keeping the puppy trim as they grow is important. Your veterinarian may recommend some joint supplements right from a young age, even for normal pups, and they will encourage moderate exercise. This is when your dog repetitively jumps down off the bed, off the couch, out of your car and other similar movements. Going down long flights of stairs frequently can also add trauma. Many breeders recommend that puppies avoid more than 2 or 3 stairs until 6 months of age or older since the potential for damage is worse for puppies than for adult dogs. Rigorous use of screenings for breeding animals with full public information is currently the best bet for decreasing cases of elbow dysplasia. Normal parents may produce elbow problems, but the incidence is much lower than if one or both parents have bad elbows themselves. He personally recommends taking action as soon as possible to detect pain and lameness early, perform an arthroscopic coronoidectomy, followed by intensive non-surgical supportive care. It has been a humbling experience," he says. I believe it is arrogant to think we can fix it once the problem develops. Some dogs feel very sore with a Grade 1 diagnosis, whereas others rated Grade 3 are minimally lame. Grade 1: Minimal bone change along the anconeal process of their ulna at less than 2 mm Grade 2: Additional bone proliferation along the anconeal process 2—5 mm and subchondral bone changes trochlear notch sclerosis Grade 3: Well-developed degenerative joint disease with bone proliferation along the anconeal process being greater than 5 mm There are three other processes that describe specific types of bony defects in the elbow: fragmented medial coronoid process FCP , osteochondrosis of the humeral condyle and ununited anconeal process. These all fall under the umbrella of elbow dysplasia umbrella, and they all lead to secondary arthritis. Some dogs will be affected on just one side, but many dogs will have problems with both elbows. Fragmented coronoid process is the most common. There is the potential to make them worse, and surgery is expensive. The elbow cannot correct itself. That said, if surgery is impossible for other reasons, then medical-management strategies designed to help with severe arthritis are your next-best choice. Therapies include: Weight management: Simply getting your dog to their normal weight may decrease their pain dramatically. Exercise: Moderate exercise moves the joint and builds cushion. Be sure to use proper warm-up and cool-down periods. For example, if your dog loves to play ball, a minute walk will help loosen their joints so that they can move more freely. Laser treatments, TENs transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation , ice therapy and acupuncture may be worth trying. Pain medications: Your veterinarian may recommend a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug NSAID , such as carprofen, to help keep your dog comfortable. Joint supplements: Ingredients like glucosamine, hyaluronic acid and chondroitin encourage healthy cartilage and increased joint fluid, which help act as cushions. Work with your veterinarian to choose the best supplement for your dog. Injectables: Adequan is another injectable drug that could help with the accompanying osteoarthritis and pain. Injecting platelet-rich plasma PRP into the joint has also been used with some success in canine elbow dysplasia. Synovetin OA is a new, injectable medication that uses electron therapy to target macrophages and synoviocytes in the painful elbow. It must be injected directly into the affected joint. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Elbow dysplasia ED is a general term that encompasses five distinct anatomical problems, outlined below, that tend to result in malformation of the elbow joint that leads to early-onset osteoarthritis, of which fragmented medial coronoid process FMCP is one. Ununited anconeal process UAP : The anconeal process is a protrusion of the top of the ulna. Developmentally, it starts as a separate bone which should fuse to the ulna. UAP occurs when this fusion fails to happen. Osteochondrosis dissecans OCD : In OCD an area of joint cartilage develops abnormally or becomes damaged leading to thickening, cracking and fragmentation of the cartilage. Elbow incongruity IC : Dogs with IC have malformed articular surfaces of the three bones that make up the elbow and because of this they do not fit together normally. It can affect the weight-bearing surfaces between the humerus and the radius and ulna and also the way in which the upper part of the ulna fits inside the lower end of the humerus Schwarz .Ununited medial epicondyle UME : This is an uncommon condition in which the medial epicondyle, a bone on the end of the humerus, fails to unite with the humerus during development. At their upper ends, the radius and part of the ulna form a flattened surface that bears the load imposed by the humerus. Most of this articular surface is on the radius but two parts of the ulna are involved: the medial towards the inside of the leg and lateral towards the outside coronoid processes. Figure 1. The three bones of the elbow joint separated and in normal alignment. In a healthy canine elbow joint the ulna and radius form a flat surface for articulation with the humerus. Image property of Phil Witte, to whom we are grateful for permission to reproduce it here. Figure 2. A diagram of the upper end of the ulna illustrating the locations of the coronoid and anconeal processes. The medial coronoid process MCP is located towards the inside of the leg. At birth the medial coronoid process MCP is composed of cartilage. In dogs with an FMCP this cartilage does not turn into bone in the normal way a process called endochondral ossification. There are different theories as to why as outlined below. For a healthy elbow joint it is vital among other things for the ulna and the radius to grow together and create a flat articular surface with the humerus. One theory is that FMCP is caused by the radius not growing in coordination with the ulna, so that the weight passing down from the humerus rests largely and abnormally on the coronoid processes of the ulna. More weight goes medially and this pressure prevents endochondral ossification Ubbink et al .Figure 3. Uncoordinated growth of the elbow joint. If the radius blue is too short relative to the ulna purple , the humerus green applies excessive pressure on to the coronoid processes blue arrow in the diagram , rather than it being distributed evenly across both radius and ulna. The coronoid processes therefore develop abnormally and are prone to fragmentation Image property of Phil Witte, to whom we are grateful for permission to reproduce it here. Another possibility is that abnormal development of the tracheal notch an aspect of elbow IC causes abnormal pressure on the medial coronoid processes MCP and abnormal endochondral ossification in them Wind and Packard a, Wind and Packard b, Ubbink et al .The damaged MCP then does not properly undergo the process that should turn its cartilage into bone endochondral ossification Grondalen and Grondalen , Olsson .Trauma is also a possible cause of the initial damage Guthrie et al .Pieces of bone and cartilage may break off, with these fragments floating in the joint or becoming embedded elsewhere within it. Holes may also be seen in the cartilage. Figure 4. In cases of FMCP, the medial coronoid process breaks off from the ulna as shown in this radiograph. Image property of Southern Counties Veterinary Specialists, to whom we are grateful for permission to reproduce it here. Figure 5. A Computed Tomography CT image shows a cross section of the elbow joint, and illustrates the fracture of the medial coronoid process blue arrow from the ulna. The pathology may be somewhat different in different breeds. In the Labrador it tends to be the lateral side of the MCP that breaks but this is held in place by the radius Hazelwinkel .Associated with FMCP there is often a lesion on the adjacent cartilage of the humerus. It has been suggested that both these changes should be encompassed within the term medial compartment disease Kramer et al .Dogs with FMCP develop osteoarthritis degenerative joint disease in the elbow. In osteoarthritis there are progressive changes to the joint cartilage, varying amounts of inflammation and ongoing damage to other joint structures - the joint capsule, joint fluid and surrounding bone. These changes are often present by months of age and lead to clinical signs later. Typical signs include: stiffness after rest, lameness which can be worse after exercise and reduced mobility of the joint, with the leg tending to be held twisted outwards abducted and suppinated. Such signs are indistinguishable from those shown in other forms of elbow dysplasia and imaging of the joint is usually needed to make a definitive diagnosis Schwarz .Affected dogs may be treated with rest and pain-killers, and often treatment needs to be life long. Various surgical procedures have been recommended but there is no clear consensus as to which is best. Some of these procedures involve major surgery, including removing whole sections of the ulna in order to shorten it Burton and Owen b. The male bias may be associated with the greater weight of males Hazelwinkel .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact MCPF causes pain and disability associated with osteoarthritis. This can vary from mild to severe. Welfare may also be affected as a result of the veterinary investigations and treatments of the disease. Figure 6a Figure 6b Figure 6a and b. Osteoarthritic changes to the shape and structure of the elbow joint secondary to FMCP. The shaded areas on figures 6a extended elbow and 6b flexed elbow represent secondary changes to the bones as a result of FMCP. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact The mild to severe pain and disability seen in this disease can be expected to start during the first few months of life and, without successful treatment, to continue for life. Treatment may help but keeping affected dogs free from pain and avoiding disabilities is often not possible Return to top 4. In their studies of inheritance of elbow dysplasia, Guthrie and Pidduck found that 1. Diagnosis FMCP will be suspected by a veterinary surgeon when presented with a Labrador showing forelimb pain and elbow disease. Determining the type of elbow disease, its extent and the degree of secondary osteoarthritis requires further diagnostic procedures. In other cases there are typical secondary changes of osteoarthritis than lead to FMCP being suspected Burton and Owen a. Magnetic resonance imaging MRI or computerised tomography CT scanning are more sensitive methods of detection and are increasingly being used Burton and Owen a. Exploratory surgery is used to find fragments of bone, this is both diagnostic and can be therapeutic. This surgery may be via an arthroscope a small fibre optic instrument to look directly into the joint through a small key-hole incision van Ryssen and van Bree .It has been suggested that the best combination of diagnostic tests is CT plus arthroscopy Moores et al .Return to top 6. Maki et al gave a figure of 0. The heritability probably varies according to the breeding line of the individual; Ubbink et al found heritability varied from 0. Multiple genes are involved in the condition Padgett et al .Efforts to identify the genes involved in FMCP are underway but, as with other forms of elbow dysplasia, these are complicated by the difficulty of identifying animals that are definitely free of the disease Clements , Salg .Although different forms of elbow dysplasia sometimes occur together in some individuals sometimes Meyer-Lindenberg et al they are probably not linked genetically or pathogenically so should be considered separately when searching for genetic causes Innes .It is known that the father and mother contribute equally to the likelihood of the development of elbow dysplasia Maki et al .Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? Affected dogs should not be used for breeding. Affected puppies can be produced from apparently normal parents Hazelwinkel and Nap .Determining carriers - those which carry and may pass on the gene s but which do not show signs of the disease themselves - is not currently possible. Return to top 8. Methods and prospects for elimination of the problem A voluntary scheme for grading the elbows of dogs susceptible to elbow dysplasia all forms has been operating in the UK since although it has been suggested that breeder uptake is relatively low Sampson .Radiographs taken by a local veterinary surgeon are forwarded to veterinary radiologists on the scheme panel for assessment. Each elbow is graded , with zero meaning that no evidence of elbow dysplasia was seen. If the two elbows have different grades the higher of the grades is the one used for the dog. The scheme recommends that dogs used for breeding should have grades of zero or one and that those with higher scores are not bred from. No evidence has yet been published as to whether this scheme is reducing elbow dysplasia in the Labrador. A comparable scheme, run in Sweden since , requires that all Labradors are screened in order to be allowed onto the breeding register Hedhammar and Malm .This scheme has reduced the prevalence of elbow dysplasia in Bernese Mountain dogs Swenson et al , Malm et al but data are not available on its impact in Labradors. Like other complex, multi-gene diseases in which environmental factors also play a part, good progress in reducing the prevalence of FMCP is likely to be aided by greater knowledge of the underlying genetics. One approach is to breed from dogs that have better breeding value see below than average for the breed Sampson .This takes account of both the individual being evaluated and its relatives Malm et al .Out-breeding Labradors with breeds known to have a much lower prevalence of FMCP and elbow dysplasia ED in general may lead to fewer dogs being born with a lifetime of painful joint problems before them. Return to top 9. Written by Dr. It occurs when the bones that make up the elbow joint don't come together just right, leading eventually to painful movement in the forelimb. The elbow is made up of the humerus the long bone of the upper forelimb , which communicates at the joint with the radius and ulna the two bones that comprise the lower forelimb below it. All these bones need to fit together just right for the elbow to withstand a lifetime of wear and tear. When they don't, "elbow dysplasia" is the descriptive term applied to the condition and its resulting symptoms. To make matters even more confusing, a variety of diseases specific to the elbow are considered different forms of elbow dysplasia: Ununited anconeal process UAP Fragmented medial coronoid process FMCP Osteochondritis dessicans of the medial humeral condyle OCD Ununited medial epicondyle UME Elbow incongruity All these problems may ultimately affect the elbow because the joint just wasn't "made right. Because arthritis also known as "ostoearthritis" and synonymous with joint inflammation is the result of the uncomfortable movement when the bones of the joint aren't properly aligned, this problem is sometimes confused by owners as a normal process of aging dogs. Nonetheless, the joint malformation that causes elbow dysplasia is the most common underlying cause of elbow arthritis in dogs of all ages. So think of the arthritis as a symptom we need to treat--not as the cause itself. Though trauma to the elbow can lead to the same kinds of changes to the elbow produced by elbow dysplasia, this disease is most commonly the result of genetic factors that lead to less than optimal joint conformation. Symptoms and Identification Dogs affected with elbow dysplasia may show signs of mild to moderate pain and lameness in the forelimbs as early as four months of age. But some will not show signs of this disease until later in life. Both elbows are typically involved, but one may be much more grievously affected. The timing of the symptoms' arrival is typically related to the severity of the joint's abnormality. Dogs who show no signs until later in life are typically those who have already developed arthritis inflammation in the joint from uncomfortable rubbing of the joint's misaligned components. Diagnosis of elbow dysplasia is typically arrived at through X-rays confirming visible changes to the joint. But a history of front-limb lameness in a young dog or palpable thickening of the elbow evidence of arthritis usually raises the alarm. CT scans of the area can also be very helpful to identify the exact version of elbow dysplasia present, but a surgical exploratory usually through arthroscopy, but also through open-joint surgery is considered the best way to determine the extent of the joint's damage. Affected Breeds Large breed dogs are most affected. The elbow joint is a Figure 1; The lower bones of the elbow of the dog. The radius is at the front and the ulna at the back. If the 3 bones do not fit together perfectly due to growth abnormalities, abnormal weight distribution on areas of the joint occur causing pain, lameness, and the development of arthritis. Elbow dysplasia is a disease that encompasses several conditions grouped into medial compartment disease fragmented coronoid process FCP , osteochondrosis OCD , joint incongruity, and cartilage anomaly and ununited anconeal process UAP. The cause of ED in dogs remains unclear. There are a number of theories as to the exact cause of the disease that include genetics, defects in cartilage growth, trauma, diet, and so on. It is most commonly suspected this is a multifactorial disease in which causes the growth disturbances, Figure 1. Elbow dysplasia is an inherited condition that can occur in most dog breeds but is most commonly seen in large to giant breed dogs. Bernese Mountain Dogs, German Shepherds, and Golden retrievers among others are predisposed to UAP while Labrador retrievers, German Shepherds, and Golden retrievers have an increased predilection among other breeds for developing medial compartment disease. Unfortunately, once the elbow joint has been damaged through either cartilage loss, medial compartment disease or an ununited anconeal process, inflammation and further cartilage damage occurs. Ultimately this causes progressive arthritis of the elbow joint leading to pain and loss of function. Affected dogs develop a front limb lameness that typically worsens over a period of weeks to months. Lameness is usually worse after exercise and typically never completely resolves with rest. Often both fore legs are affected, which can make detection of lameness difficult, as the gait is not asymmetric. When both elbows are involved the dog usually becomes unwilling to exercise for long periods or may even refuse to complete a walk. Diagnostics Diagnosis of elbow dysplasia is usually performed with a combination of clinical examination and x-rays. Usually the dog has pain on fully bending or extending the elbow and often your veterinarian will want to watch your dog walk or trot to detect any lameness. X-rays will typically shows signs of arthritis but may also show the presence of small bone fragments in the joint or an ununited anconeal process Figures 2 and 3. Your veterinarian may also choose to refer you to a specialist veterinary surgeon for more advanced diagnostic procedures to be performed. Figure 2: an ununited anconeal process UAP in an 18 month old dog. Note the large unattached fragment at the top of the joint arrow Figure 3: Advanced arthritis. Note the new bone deposited around the joint arrows and the increased density of the bone under the joint cross. Figure 4: Arthroscopic image of a fracture coronoid fragment arrow with severe cartilage damage to the humerus diamond and ulna cross. Figure 5: A 3D reconstruction from a CT scan showing a medial coronoid fragment arrow Treatment Treatment depends on the severity of the disease in the elbow. In most cases surgery is recommended, but your veterinarian may recommend medical management if the problem is very mild or so severe that the joint may not likely benefit from routine surgery. Treatment will depend on the primary cause of the elbow dysplasia. Often surgery is best performed arthroscopically, but conventional open surgery can also be done. Joint replacement if the elbow is severely diseased Figure 6: Removal of a medial coronoid fragment by arthroscopy. Figure 7: A proximal abducting ulnar osteotomy. This is one of two procedures used to shift weight away from the damaged part of the joint to a health part of the joint. Aftercare and Outcome Surgery aftercare will depend on the type of surgery performed, and your veterinarian will advise you of exactly what is required. In general your dog will need to be quiet and confined for a period of time, usually from 2—6 weeks or more. The outcome will vary between dogs, but in general the more mild the disease and the earlier it is treated, the better the long-term outcome. Most dogs will benefit from surgical treatment even if disease is more advanced, but unfortunately once arthritis is established it will slowly progress regardless of any treatment. Unfortunately elbow dysplasia cannot be cured but it can be well managed and our patients can have a good long term prognosis and outcome with a combination of surgical and medical management.

Average weight: kg for males; kg for females. The large pricked ears and clean-cut tapering head mean that even at rest these dogs look alert and primed to spring into action. The North American-bred German shepherds have a definite sloping stance with hind quarters low to the ground, quite distinct from the more level in appearance European lines. The most common coat colour is black and tan, but other patterns include black and cream, black and silver, black and red, sable, grey, blue, liver, black, and white, although blue, liver, and white colourings are not accepted in certain show classes. Temperament The German shepherd can be described as intelligent, courageous, obedient, loyal, alert, watchful, and confident, but they are also aloof, reserved dogs that tend not to make friends instantly with everyone they meet. With their owners and family, they are easy-going, friendly, and extremely loyal characters, and very protective when threatened, making them exceptional guard dogs. The protective, loving nature of the breed make it a good choice for families with children, or any individuals able to provide regular exercise and suitable companionship. They can adapt to life in a city apartment or out in the country living a ranch or farm life, but they need to live indoors as part of the family and are not suited to life in an outdoor doghouse. As with many herding breeds, German shepherds are barkers. They need daily physical and mental exercise, and if they are left alone for extended periods or become bored, barking can become an issue, along with other unwanted behaviours such as chewing. Regular grooming two or three times each week will help to keep more of the hairs on the brush than elsewhere in your home, but a vacuum cleaner designed to cope with pet hair could be a worthwhile investment. Bathing is only needed occasionally as German shepherds are generally odourless. Ears should be checked and wiped clean weekly, nails trimmed monthly, and teeth cleaned regularly to keep teeth and gums in good shape for chewing on toys and bones. Feeding As with all dog breeds, a German shepherd should be fed according to its weight to prevent over or under feeding. The large size, and high energy and exercise needs of the breed must be taken into consideration, and advice from a veterinarian will help to establish the correct portion sizes. An overweight German shepherd may suffer from joint problems and other health conditions, so measured meals, limited snacks, and adequate exercise are essential to ensure a long and active life. German shepherd puppies grow extremely rapidly in their first year, especially between four and seven months, making the breed susceptible to related bone disorders. A high-quality, low-calorie diet is recommended to help control the rate of bone growth in puppyhood, and dietary needs will then change at different ages and stages of life. Exercise German shepherds are not couch potatoes and they need daily physical and mental exercise to keep them happy and healthy. An absolute minimum of two half-hour walks each day plus some form of stimulation through play or training is required to prevent boredom leading to undesirable behaviour. Playing on grass and softer surfaces and taking part in activities such as puppy agility will ensure the joints are given adequate time to form fully without risking damage or injury. Training Originally bred for herding, German shepherds are highly intelligent and trainable, but they need regular exercise and training to satisfy their high-energy needs. The German shepherd is an action-dog that can be trained to work in a wide variety of roles, including being a hearing dog for the deaf, a sniffer dog for the police, and a search and rescue dog following earthquakes or avalanches. On top of this, they can be great family dogs when they are given plenty of opportunities to socialize with children early in their training. Health Overall, German shepherds are a healthy breed, but they can be prone to joint issues and digestive disorders. Conditions that may affect the breed include: Hip dysplasia a developmental condition causing weakness in the hip joint, generally manifesting before the age of 1 year. Cancers German SHepherds can develop benign skin tumors that are easily removed with simple surgery, but several other types of cancer can occur, including heart, brain, thyroid, spleen, testes or mammary glands, and lymphoma. Elbow dysplasia as with hip dysplasia, joint laxity in the elbow can result from bones growing at different rates, leading to pain and lameness. Bloat also known as gastric dilation and volvulus, bloat is a life-threatening condition that affects large dog breeds with a deep chest such as the German shepherd. The stomach becomes distended if the dog eats too much or too rapidly, or drinks too much water at once, especially before exercising. A twist in the stomach then prevents belching or vomiting, and the consequent drop in blood pressure leads to shock. Preventing this condition requires careful feeding of appropriately sized meals at the correct times of day. Degenerative myelopathy DM a neurological disease affecting the spinal cord and nerve function in the hind legs. This condition is most common in middle-aged and older dogs, eventually taking away the ability to walk. Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI a genetic disease affecting the pancreas and the ability to digest and absorb food. Symptoms of the condition include loss of appetite and weight loss, leading to a thin and hungry dog, but most dogs recover with appropriate medical care. Allergies German shepherds can suffer from allergies ranging from food to contact varieties, and symptoms include licking at paws, rubbing at faces, and scratching. Gradually, the ears become erect, but not necessarily at the same time. Welcome from our. Breeds Puppies The link has been copied! German Shepherds are medium to large working dogs that were bred in Germany to be used as a herding dog for sheep. Today, they are common household dogs that are loved around the world. These dogs tend to be loyal, stubborn, confident, intelligent, curious, brave, obedient, and protective. They have many positive attributes that make them very popular as pets. Size and Appearance of a 4 Month Old German Shepherd Once a German Shepherd reaches four months of age, it can be one foot tall and will weigh about half of the total adult weight. Male German Shepherds will weigh between 35 and 40 pounds, while females will weigh between 31 and 35 pounds. Between months three and four of life, a German Shepherd will gain around 10 pounds of body weight, and this will cause a difference in the dog's size and appearance. At this age, German Shepherds will be growing quickly, and you will be able to notice differences in the dog's size month-by-month. A four-month-old German Shepherd will no longer look like a puppy, and it will more closely resemble an adult by this age. Once the dog reaches four months old, the coat will be different from that of a puppy, and the dog will shed much more. The coat will become thicker and glossier, and the exact texture might depend on what foods the dog is eating. German Shepherds come in a variety of colors that include black, white, gray, black and tan, black and red, black and silver, and sable. The coloring of your dog will depend on the breeding and parents. Additionally, the dog is teething at this age. The German Shepherd will be teething until about seven to eight months, and during this time, the milk teeth will be replaced with larger adult teeth. German Shepherd puppies tend to have ears that lay flatter, while the adult's ears will be perky and stand straight up. At four months, the process of ear perking will begin, although the cartilage will not strengthen for another month or two. This means that the ears can perk up, then flatten, then perk up again until they become permanently lifted in adulthood. The dog's ears can remain flat if they live somewhere with consistently loud sounds, as they will try to avoid damage to their hearing by listening to these noises. To allow the dog's ears to perk properly, it is important to keep your dog away from loud, abrupt noises that can negatively affect their hearing. Activity and Behavior Four month old German Shepherds are very active puppies that must be stimulated physically as well as mentally. Some great activities to do with a dog include playing outside, playing with toys, going on walks or jogs, dog sports, and attending obedience training. A four-month German Shepherd will enjoy going on walks for about a mile at a time, and it is preferable to go on several shorter walks throughout the day rather than going on one very long walk. About two hours of active playtime per day is important for your puppy. Playtime is when they are both physically and intellectually enriched, and it is vital for development going into adulthood. For the first four months of life, there are many new experiences and adventures that your dog will learn from, so it is important. Sleeping Needs Sleep is extremely important for a young German Shepherd, and if the dog is not getting enough sleep , it might start to misbehave. If you notice this, it is important to discuss working out a proper daily schedule with your veterinarian, as it will often be a fix that you can make yourself by changing your routine, walk schedule, eating times, or play times. At the age of four months, a German Shepherd will sleep for around 18 hours a day. They need the energy to grow, which is why they sleep for most of the day, but in the hours when they are awake, German Shepherds tend to be very active. Dogs that exercise a lot will also sleep more to recuperate the energy lost during the day. If there are many new things to explore, the dog will sleep for fewer hours during the day. Some four months later, German Shepherds will also take 15 to minute naps during the day, and then they will wake up to play, eat, or use the bathroom. Health and Care Each time you take your dog to the vet, you should weigh and measure your German Shepherd to make sure that they are growing at the proper rate. If your dog is healthy, it should be growing quickly, and the veterinarian can confirm that everything looks good. At the age of four months, you should get a third set of vaccines, including DHPP and rabies, to protect your dog against these diseases. This can be done through a veterinarian. Vaccines are important to complete on time to boost your dog's immune system and keep them as healthy and up-to-date as possible. It is important to take your dog to the vet if you notice extreme changes in behavior, sleeping patterns, coughing or sneezing , runny noses or overly watery eyes, any form of weight loss, lack of appetite, heavy breathing, excessive urination, irritated gums, vomiting, or diarrhea. These can be signs that your dog is sick and needs medical care. Bathing your German Shepherd too often can cause the natural oils that a dog needs to keep its skin protected to dry up, so it is important not to over-bathe your puppy. However, it is important to keep your dog's bed, bowls, and toys clean to avoid fleas or other insects that might negatively affect your pet. As your four-month-old German Shepherd's coat is transitioning into an adult coat, it is important to brush the fur every day. This is to prevent excessive shedding, which can irritate your dog and create a mess inside the house. It is important to always be gentle with your dog and not brush him too roughly. Feeding Your 4 Month Old German Shepherd A German Shepherd is a big dog, and at the age of four months, it is still a puppy that is actively growing and will therefore require a large amount of food. Four-month German Shepherds should be fed three times a day, and they should eat one to two cups of kibble at each feeding time. This kibble should be specifically meant for puppies of this age, as it will have the proper nutrients and ingredients for your puppy to grow into a healthy adult. At the end of the fourth month, you can begin to feed your dog twice a day, but they should still be eating kibble meant for puppies until they reach six months of age and they are no longer growing as rapidly. Treats are also a good addition to kibble, but you should not exceed three to five small treats per day. These treats should be exclusively for dogs , as feeding your German Shepherd adult food can cause many health issues. It is important to monitor how much you are feeding your dog, as overeating can cause obesity and lead to severe health issues. Additionally, if you decide to use a raw diet rather than kibble, it is important to be mindful of the quality and nutrition of the food to keep your German Shepherd healthy and energized. Training A four-month German Shepherd will be easy to train because the puppy's main goal will be to please their owner, and they are very intelligent and loyal dogs that will be eager to learn from their owner. One of the reasons why German Shepherds are such a popular breed is because of their trainability. A German Shepherd's instinct is to protect, as the breed was originally bred to herd and protect sheep. This can lead to a puppy barking often as a means to protect its family, and this can be a misbehavior that the owner hopes to correct. Training can help reduce unnecessary barking in your German Shepherd puppy. Another potential behavioral issue is using the bathroom inside the home, which is common at four months old. The owner must train their dog to go outside to use the bathroom, and patience is required for this process. The most efficient strategy for potty training is to be encouraging when the puppy correctly uses the bathroom outside and to avoid any anger when they have an accident, as this will only make training go slower. German Shepherd puppies might also bite and nip people to try to get attention or play. They will understand that they should not repeat this behavior and will learn quickly. While your German Shepherd is teething, it might bite furniture, which can cause damage. The best way to avoid this is to buy many chew toys to help your dog with the process of teething, as well as move any valuables out of the dog's reach. This behavior will reduce once the dog's adult teeth have all come in. Socialization with people and other animals can help your German Shepherd behave better, and it is important to expose them to new situations to help them learn. They are very curious animals who will enjoy having new experiences and trying new things. A German Shepherd is a medium to large-sized dog, and by the age of four months, the puppy will already be much larger than it was at birth. At four months, a male German Shepherd will have a shoulder height between 11 and 14 inches. A female German Shepherd will have a shoulder height between 10 and 12 inches. A male German Shepherd at four months old should weigh 35 to 40 pounds. A female should weigh 31 to 35 pounds. The dog should be rapidly growing, but it is important not to let them overeat because obesity can be a real health issue for your dog. Measuring the weight of your dog regularly can help you keep track of its growth, and if there are any concerning patterns, you should discuss it with your veterinarian. At the age of four months, it is not unusual for your dog to grow up to two pounds in a single week, and it is a time of great change and growth. At the age of four months, your German Shepherd should eat three meals a day. These meals should consist of one to two cups of kibble. This means that the total amount of kibble eaten per day should be three to six. You should base how much you feed your German Shepherd on their size, activity level, and how hungry they are. If you are unsure about how much to feed the puppy, you should consult your veterinarian for help. Treats can be used in moderation to train your young puppy and motivate them to partake in good behavior , or they can just be used as a snack throughout the day. A 4-month-old German Shepherd can walk for about one mile at a time before they become tired. Going for a thirty-minute walk twice a day will be sufficient exercise for your puppy to keep them nice and strong without overworking them. Fi smart dog collars make it easier than ever. Final Thoughts German Shepherds are great dogs to keep as pets. They have many positive traits that make them brilliant, loyal, and protective companions that will stay by your side no matter what. They are great work dogs as well as great pets, including for families. German Shepherds are easy to train, and they are very obedient animals that can learn all kinds of tricks. When your German Shepherd is still a puppy, it is the best time to teach them obedience, potty train them, and teach them to play. German Shepherds will be growing rapidly at four months, and it is important to take proper care of them so that they can grow into strong, healthy adults. Making sure that they have enough intellectual stimulation through walks, exploring new people and places, and toys can ensure that your dog is getting the attention that they need. Additionally, they should be fed enough to fuel their growing bodies. They should be taken to the veterinarian regularly to make sure that they are growing at a proper rate and that there are no health problems that need the attention of a professional. German Shepherds grow up fast , and when they are four months old, you will notice many changes in their size, mannerisms, and behavior. By four months, they will have developed a unique personality, and they will be your best friend! Taking care of your best friend will bring joy to both you and your pet, and it is an exciting journey to take together. For additional pet-parenting tips, head over to TryFi. And don't forget to check out TryFi's innovative Fi Dog Collar , which offers GPS tracking, activity monitoring, and escape alerts to keep your furry friend safe. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. November 8, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The German Shepherd Dog, one of the top ten popular breeds in the United States, is known for their regal appearance, bravery, intelligence, and noble character. They are hard-working dogs that fit into a variety of service jobs, but can also be amazing family dogs, making them an all-around great breed for dog lovers! How do you know if the German Shepherd Dog is the right fit for you and your family? German Shepherd Dogs are a younger breed that started in Germany in by Captain Max Von Stephanitz who sought to create an unmatched herding dog. But as Germany became more and more industrialized, the breed shifted from herding work to police and military training. Hundreds of these dogs made their way to the United States during WWI, one such being a small five-day-old puppy that was rescued from a destroyed kennel in France and brought home to the states to Los Angeles. This puppy later grew up to be one of the most famous four-legged movie stars, Rin Tin Tin, starring in 26 movies, forever making the German Shepherd Dog breed a popular choice in the nation! If you are looking for an attractive dog, look no further! German Shepherd Dogs have beautiful coats, strong muscular builds, a square muzzle, long bushy tail, and a black mask. Some colors like red and black, or tan and black, have distinct markings such as saddle or blanket on their back. However, German Shepherd Dogs come in a variety of colors: sable, silver, liver, panda, solid black, and solid white. What are German Shepherd Dog Personalities like? German Shepherd Dogs can be reserved, often appearing aloof toward new people, but this very loyal breed loves their families and can be very affectionate. While they can be wary of new people and protective of their family, with the right socialization, German Shepherd Dogs can be friendly and easy-going. They are an intelligent and high-energy breed that thrives with a job to do. Due to this, without the proper or consistent amount of stimulating work, they can easily become bored and frustrated. Those feelings could translate into behaviors like barking, howling, or chewing. As they get older, they'll equally enjoy relaxing with you at home and getting up with you to do the next fun activity! If you are a lover of going for long walks or runs, enjoy hiking on the weekends, or trips to the beach depending on where you live, a German Shepherd Dog will gladly trot alongside you! German Shepherd Dogs while they can be independent, do crave to be with their family and offer great companionship. With crate training, your German Shepherd puppy will learn to adapt to being left alone for periods of time without developing separation anxiety, however, this breed thrives with interaction and will do best a puppy parent that can provide them with a balanced amount of alone and accompanied time throughout the day. Like many large breed dogs, German Shepherd Dogs can suffer from some common illnesses including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, degenerative myelopathy, degenerative spinal stenosis, and Von Willebrand disease. Thankfully, responsible breeders today have bred out many of these and improved the health of the breed significantly! When you bring home your new German Shepherd puppy, schedule their first veterinarian visit to discuss appropriate health care, proper nutrition and supplements, and exercise. German Shepherd Dogs tend to shed regularly and heavily twice in the year during the Spring and Fall season. With soft undercoats and harsher topcoats, they would do best with regular brushing once a week will help remove their dead fur and maintain healthy skin! Note: When looking for a reputable German Shepherd Dog breeder, go through an accredited website such as AKC for their breeder locator. Additionally, many pure-breed and mixed German Shepherds are available in rescues and shelters for adoption! German Shepherds are smart and hard-working, so puppy training will not only provide them with the stimulation they crave but also solidify your communication, trust, and overall relationship! Early puppy training Lay the foundation for good behavior the day your puppy comes home, introducing them to basic obedience. Keeping your puppy on a leash at home while under supervision will help to build their focus on you as their leader and also help keep them from darting away. Soon, build up to more obedience training commands, work on their focus through distractions, and start to introduce training in different locations such as your yard, or neighborhood to solidify their communication with you in any situation. Also, check out the rest of our Puppy Training and Puppyhood Made Easy for New Owners series to guide you through what to train your puppy next, how to troubleshoot, and other important topics every puppy owner should know! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your German Shepherd Dog puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Socialization is a must German Shepherd Dogs are natural protectors and benefit greatly from being socialized with other dogs, people, new places, textures, and sounds. When done correctly, s ocialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to greet people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged German Shepherd Dogs are very intelligent and have high-prey drives which mean they love to work! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. Developed as part of K9 and military dog training, this is a perfect activity for your German Shepherd to burn off some mental and physical steam! Did you recently bring home a German Shepherd Dog puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Reliable training German Shepherd puppy training: socialization! The first item in your German Shepherd puppy training list is Socialization. It means that you must provide your baby German Shepherd with interesting and positive interactions. If you ensure that your pup interacts, and has a positive and rewarding experience, with as many people, dogs, animals, sounds, objects, sights and experiences, you will raise a confident and reliable dog. Every new activity or interaction must be followed with a yummy treat! This will ensure your puppy will have a positive association with every new experience, object, person, animal, etc. You can use your dog's kibble or something better like chicken, beef or cheese. Commercial treats are also a good and easy to use option, but make sure you buy healthy, all natural dog treats to keep your German shepherd puppy healthy and strong! German Shepherd dogs are loyal and may have a tendency to be apprehensive with strangers. Socialization will ensure that your puppy grows a strong bond with you without developing a problematic over-protectiveness. German Shepherd puppy training socialization tips: Never separate a puppy from his mother and littermates before the age of weeks. During this time, mom teaches her puppies some important rules of the dog world like body language communication and they start to learn bite inhibition by plying with the other puppies. Unfortunately many vets will tell you not to take your puppy out of the house until they have had all of their shots. This is old school thinking and can have extremely bad consequences that will become apparent only when your canine becomes an adult. Without the full set of shots, your puppy is vulnerable to infectious diseases, however taking your pup to early socialization classes where all other dogs have also been immunized reduces the risk for becoming sick AND will make your German Shepherd a confident, well adjusted and friendlier dog. The American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior promotes early socialization , even before the full set of vaccines are given to the pup. Take socialization in your own hands. Spend the first 4 weeks holding parties at your home! Yes, parties! Invite all your friends and family for Karaoke, sports watching, boardgames, etc. Ask them to bring their kids too! And always make sure socialization is about positive interactions. If any of the kids or adults make your puppy a little scared, simply remove the threat and let the puppy explore other things. Back to top of German shepherd puppy training article. German Shepherd puppy training: stop the biting! Socialization is hard work, bite-inhibition is even harder! But it is one of the best things you can ever teach your pup. Dogs have really strong jaws and can learn to apply just the right amount of pressure with it. Adult dogs that have had this kind of training can get into fights and defend themselves without drawing blood. This is so important to avoid any type of dog-human or dog-dog bite accidents. German Shepherd puppy dogs have sharp teeth for a reason: to learn how to use their mouth properly. Teach your puppy to bite without hurting! To teach your pooch not to hurt human skin you will need to yelp like a puppy every time you feel teeth in contact with your skin. Engage in puppy play and Yelp Yes! Loud, sharp, high pitched and clear when you feel teeth. Your pup will most likely stop in surprise. As soon as he has stopped, wait seconds and resume play. Repeat as many times as needed. Start with those bites that really hurt or scratch. If you yelp every time you feel teeth, your puppy will think it is how you play. It may take a few weeks for you to notice that your pup is not hurting as much.Progressively teach your pup to play without hurting you. This make take a couple of months! Do not let your puppy play with your clothes, shoes, face or hair. If your puppy bites any of these, the game is over. Wait for him to calm down and start playing again. If you are tired of playing and getting bitten, grab a tug-toy or a ball and play those games instead. After a while, settle your puppy with a stuffed Kong toy on his bed or crate. Never punish your puppy for play-biting, this can lead to aggression or your puppy fearing "hands" near his face. Even though German shepherd puppy dogs are really smart, bite-inhibition requires a lot of repetition and consistency. Most of the time you will feel he is not learning anything at all, keep at it. You can add second time outs on top of yelping if needed. It is definitely worth your time. If bite-inhibition is slow, this article has more tips to help you! Another aspect of training your German shepherd puppy bite inhibition are toys! Your pup needs to learn to bite only his toys, not furniture, not the walls, not your shoes. For this reason you need to load your house with puppy toys and TEACH your puppy how to play with them. The best dog toys are interactive, this means that you can put food inside the toy and your puppy has to think how to get it out. This toys are the best because they add enrichment to your dog's life. Interactive dog toy recommendations: Feed EVERY meal inside an interactive dog toy Use interactive toys with your German shepherd when he is left alone in the house. Make sure he has plenty of toys interactive and others so he won't get bored when you leave. Use interactive toys when you need some quiet time because you need to work, or you have guests. Kong dog toy's are the best , you can fill them with something soft like cheese or peanut butter and let your puppy lick it for a while. Even better.Below you will see some of my favorite interactive dog toys durable and fun! German Shepherd puppy training: potty outside! Another important item on your German shepherd puppy training list is House training. It can be a bit stressful, but if done correctly, you can accomplish it very quickly. Just keep in mind that depending on your puppy in can take anywhere from 1 week to several months to complete potty training. The following info-graphic has some simple rules to follow and make german shepher potty training easy and effective: Take your puppy out for a potty break every hours. Take your puppy out for a potty the break after every meal. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a nap. Take your puppy out for a potty break after a play session. The main idea when potty training a German shepherd puppy, is to take him out or to the correct place as often as he needs to and reward him after he is done. The infographic above gives you an idea of how often a puppy needs to go out. However, you need to know your own puppy. This way you will know how often he is relieving himself. You may also notice if he does it after every meal or nap. Reward with a treat after he is done! Repeat steps 2 and 3, you should start noticing that after a couple of days or weeks your puppy chooses the correct place more often than other places. NEVER punish your dog for accidents, this can stress him and even make him do his business hidden from you which will make potty training very hard because you won't be able to reward him. You can crate train your German shepherd puppy so he learns to have quiet times in between active times. Crate training also prevents your puppy from having accidents. For more information and a puppy crate-training schedule check this article! German shepherd potty training aids The are several commercial items available to help you potty train your German shepherd dog. Regular cleaning products may take away the urine scent -you- smell but they will not remove the scent your dog smells. Enzymatic cleaners do that, they break down urine molecules to make them easy to remove. This will prevent your pet from returning to the same, incorrect, spot. Puppy pads are very popular because they are less messy than news paper. However, if you put a puppy pad and leave you puppy alone with it, you will find it in shreds! You must teach your puppy to use the puppy pads, not to chew on them. To do this, put the puppy pad on the floor and interrupt your puppy if he tries to play with it. Exchange for another toy and reward with treats for not grabbing the pad with his mouth he can however, stand or sit on it. Repeat until he learns this! If you have a backyard, a doggy-door is an excellent way to give your pup access to the outdoors without your help. You must teach him how to use it! Use a treat to lure him through the door many times until he can do it on his own! Then, every-time you take him outside, make him go though the door on his own. You can also teach your puppy to let you know when he needs to go outside! Use a doggy doorbells for this purpose. You must teach your dog how to use them! First, teach your dog to touch the bells. Then, ask your dog to touch the bells every time before you open the door to let him go outside. Finally, be alert for when he does it on his own! I do not recommend any "Not Here" or "Yes Here" type sprays. They don't work very well, specially without any training.German Shepherd puppy training: basic commands! Some dog trainers won't start until the dog is 6 months old, at which time he is past the socialization and bite inhibition period and he is probably doing all sorts of naughty things. You can start training your German shepherd puppy from the first day you bring him home. From weeks you can start teaching your canine many commands, however I strongly advice you keep your focus on socialization, bite-inhibition and potty training. If you have time to train basic commands…. Your pooch will love it! Step-by-step obedience training tutorials for your German shepherd German Shepherd puppy training "SIT": You will use this command all the time. Ask your pup to sit when a stranger wants to pet him, for attention, for the ball to be thrown, etc. To start use food to lure your pooch into the sit position. Only give him the treat once his bottom is on the ground. Repeat many times! Follow this link for detail instructions.This is useful at the vet as well as to mix and match commands. From a sit or down position lure your baby german shepherd into a stand. This link will take you to the step by step guide.Start your pooch from a sitting position and lure him into a down. Only give your dog a treat after he is completely down on the ground. Click here for a step-by-step tutorial.Why train your pooch sit, down and stand? You need three commands to mix up when you ask your dog to do something. If you have at least three options, then your smart German Shepherd won't be able to predict what you will ask. Practice Puppy Push-Ups! Sit-down-stand, Down-sit-stand, and ask you German Shepherd puppy to do one, two, or more commands to earn treats, toys and attention! Other useful cues include: Speak and Quiet , settle and ask for permission before rushing into something potentially dangerous. You can see a full list of commands on this link. Enjoy German Shepherd puppy training time and leave us your questions and comments in the box below. Bi-color dual color Coat The long-haired German shepherd does not always have a double coat and is more susceptible to the cold and heat than its short and medium-haired counterparts. While this looks very nice and neat, it can have some negative side effects. The coat can trap water down the back and cause skin irritation that leads to infection. This is even more true for long-haired GSDs because their long coats get tangled, matted with dirt, and require daily brushing. A comb with long teeth will help get all the way through the coat to get tangles and shedding out, and a shorter brush will help smooth out the coat. If the coat is left to tangle and mat, it will pull on the skin, which will lead to sores, irritation, and infection. It is essential to run a comb or brush through their coat for at least a few minutes every single day. Owing to the fact that they have long tufts of hair around their ears, their ears can trap dirt and become infected fairly easily. Keeping Your Long-Haired German Shepherd Active Aside from the grooming specifications mentioned above, the care your long-haired German shepherd needs is very similar to the care requirements of the short- and medium-haired German shepherd with some small additional considerations. German shepherds are incredibly active dogs and require a sizable amount of training and dedication from their owner. Long-haired German shepherds are no different. These dogs also need to be trained from an early age to prevent behavioral problems from presenting later on in life. You should exercise your long-haired GSD three times a day for 20 minutes. The exercise can take the form of activities like going on walks, taking hikes, going to a reputable dog park, playing fetch in the garden if you have the space to run around, or intense training sessions. Additionally, mental exercise is just as important as physical exercise and will tire your dog out as much as if they went for a jog around the block. Puzzle toys , sniffing games, and obstacle courses are all excellent ideas for mental exercises. Finally, keep in mind that because long-haired German shepherds lack an undercoat and have extra-long hair, they can struggle to regulate their body temperature and will overheat easily if they spend too much time out in the sun. However, these dogs are not for everyone, so it is important to consider whether your home and lifestyle is what this breed needs. These questions can help you figure out if the long-haired GSD is the dog for you: Are you able to devote at least 10 to 15 minutes everyday to groom your long-haired German shepherd? Are you happy with your long-haired German shepherd spending most of its time indoors away from the elements? Are you able to devote an hour a day to exercise your long-haired German shepherd? Are you willing to devote a considerable amount of time to train your long-haired German shepherd? FAQs Do long-haired German shepherds get along with other dogs? Provided your long-haired German shepherd has been correctly socialized with other dogs and pets from the time they were a puppy, yes, they get along very well with other dogs and pets. Do long-haired German shepherds get along with children? German shepherds, whether they are long-, medium-, or short-haired, are excellent family dogs and get along well with children. For an in-depth look at why they fit well into families with kids, check out our dedicated article. Are long-haired German shepherds more susceptible to diseases than short-haired German shepherds? The hair gene does not affect their health either negatively or positively. However, if their hair is allowed to tangle and mat, they can suffer from painful and severe skin conditions and infections. Are long-haired German shepherd puppies expensive? Finding a German shepherd puppy is relatively easy. However, finding a long-haired German shepherd puppy can prove to be difficult because they are rare. Their rarity often makes them more expensive. As a personal aside, we have fostered and rescued many German Shepherd mix puppies over the years and some had a longer coat similar to the long-haired GSD. Does the American Kennel Club recognize the long-haired German shepherd? The AKC does recognize the long-haired German shepherd as a registered breed. Rolling Over On The Long-Haired German Shepherd The long-haired German shepherd shares almost all of its physical and behavioral characteristics with its more common short and medium-haired cousins. They have a wide range of coat colors, such as: Black Black and cream, red, silver, or tan Blue. Marissa Taffer is a consultant, writer and strategist based in Philadelphia. She lives and works with her rescue dog Charlie, a certified therapy dog. But have you wondered if the German shepherd makes a good pet? Learn all about this magnificent breed and decide if adding one to your family is the right choice. About the German shepherd German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs, and for good reason. They are loyal, protective and agile dogs. The average German shepherd stands between 22 and 26 inches tall and weighs anywhere from 50 pounds. Male dogs fall to the higher end of this range and females on the lower end. As their name implies, the German shepherd originated in Germany. In the late s a a German cavalry officer, Captain Max von Stephanitz began working to breed the ideal German herding dog. He bred herding dogs that at the time had some variety from district to district in the region until the breed began to resemble the German shepherd we see today. As there became less of a need for livestock herding, he promoted these dogs as working dogs — great for police and military work. Which is why they still hold many of these jobs today. When bringing a German Shepherd into your home, you want to ensure your dog will have a job to do. Otherwise, this pro can quickly become a con. Loyal to family In addition to making a great working dog, the German shepherd can be trained as a personal protection dog for the family. This works well because these dogs form deep bonds with their families and can naturally become very protective. While these dogs may easily learn to watch over your kids, remember not to leave young children unattended with dogs. Do well in almost any climate From warm weather too cooler temperatures, these dogs can live and work in any climate. Their double coat keeps them warm in the winter but also protects them from the sun and extreme heat in the summer. Like any other breed you still want to ensure they have access to shelter when needed as extreme temperatures can increase the risk of things like frostbite and hypothermia or heat stroke. Attractive dogs These handsome dogs come in a wide variety of colors. These include black, blue, grey and even white. Active and need a high level of exercise Although this can fall into the pro column for families who are very active, it is important to remember that these dogs need to work. So, you need to make sure you have a plan to give your pup enough physical and mental exercise to keep them happy and healthy every single day. With a life expectancy anywhere from years, this is a lifetime commitment. Even as these dogs age and start to slow down, they will still need some work to do that is appropriate for their level of fitness. This type of personality can come in handy for certain types of working dogs. With a family pup, it might mean you need to bring strangers into the house slowly and carefully. When having a party, be sure to give your dog a quiet place to retreat to if they become overwhelmed. Some German Shepherds bark…a lot If you live in close proximity to some neighbors, they may not appreciate a pup who can turn up the bark volume at every person, squirrel or leaf that blows by. In order to minimize barking, German shepherd owners can teach their pup the quiet cue and reinforce being quiet instead of barking. Is a German shepherd a good family dog? The short answer is maybe. It really depends on your family and your lifestyle. It is important that potential owners of German shepheds have a plan to ensure that their dogs have a job to do and enough space to get some exercise. Like any other dog, German shepherds need proper training and socialization. This means exposing your dog to as many people, places and things as possible when they are young. You also want to make sure your dog is under you control. A 90 pound German Shephard dragging you around town can be downright dangerous, so leash manners are a must. A good and reliable sit, down and come will also help you keep your dog well under your control. At Ollie , we know a thing or two about feeding German shepherds. This breed is one of the 10 most popular of all of our customers. German shepherd parents know Ollie will deliver delicious and nutritious food their pups will beg for meal after meal. Our recipes packed with human grade carefully selected proteins and combined with delicious and wholesome high quality fruit, vegetables and grains will keep your best friend full, happy and healthy. The Ollie blog is devoted to helping pet parents lead healthier lives with their pups. If you want to learn more about our fresh, human-grade food, check out MyOllie. Over the years, German Shepherds have excelled in a wide range of roles that require a high degree of training, from serving as a K9 police officer to serving in the military to performing in dog shows. From basic obedience training to security dog training, here are a few of the German Shepherd training courses that we offer. Advanced Obedience Training Advanced obedience training builds upon basic obedience training by teaching German Shepherds more advanced skillsets and commands such as off-leash training, on-leash training, non-verbal commands, and more, resulting in a dog that is highly obedient and well-trained. Guard Dog Training Thanks to their loud, intimidating bark and high degree of intelligence, German Shepherds make for excellent guard dogs. If you would like to raise and train a dog that will be able to alert you in the event of an intrusion as well as ward off the would-be intruders then the German Shepherd is an excellent breed to consider. Security Dog Training Security dog training builds on guard dog training and is typically meant for professional working dogs. German Shepherds that receive security dog training can be used to guard specific locations or persons as well as attack on command and respond to other important, security-related commands. K9 Tactical Training All over the world, German Shepherds remain the most popular breed for police and military organizations. Custom German Shepherd Training Given how loyal and intelligent German Shepherds are, the sky is the limit when it comes to what they can be taught. If you have a specific set of tricks, skills, or commands that you would like your German Shepherd to learn that are not covered in a pre-set course then custom German Shepherd training will allow you to decide for yourself what you want your dog to be taught. Whether you have a German Shepherd puppy that needs basic obedience training, a German Shepherd that you would like to train to become a K9 officer, or anything in-between, contact us today to learn more about our industry-leading German Shepherd training.

Our Breeds Australian Labradoodle Australian Labradoodles were originally bred to be service and therapy dogs for asthma and allergy sufferers in Australia in the late s. Their outstanding temperaments and non-shedding coats make them a popular choice with families around the world. They are bred in three different sizes: miniature, medium and standard, and have a wide range of coat colours. They are known for being intelligent, trainable, happy-go-lucky, comical, gentle and excellent with children. Bernedoodle Bernedoodles were first bred in Canada to be excellent companion dogs in the early s. They are popular family companions in North America and relatively new to European shores. They result from crossing the Bernese Mountain Dogs with the Poodle. They are bred in a variety of solid and multi-combination colours, but are particularly known for the beautiful and much sought after black tricolour of the Bernese Mountain Dog. Bernedoodles are bred in three sizes: miniature, medium and standard. They are known for being smart, trainable, funny and affectionate. Sometimes, the Australian Labradoodle is used or infused instead of the Poodle and the resulting offspring are known as Australian Bernedoodles. A goldendoodle breeder in Scotland who you can trust. Husband and wife team Nigel and Annie have been involved in the successful breeding and training of dogs for over thirty years. A goldendoodle breeder in Scotland who you can rely on being council licensed, fully insured and offer life support goldendoodle puppy training advice to all of our goldendoodle puppy owners in Scotland and across the world. The "My Posh Pup" goldendoodle breeder Scotland puppy programme fully compliments the full time professions of Annie being a professional dog photographer after a rewarding career as a well respected dog groomer and Nigel being a government trained dog behaviourist and dog trainer covering Scotland and across the UK having retired from the police dog unit in after twenty-seven years service. Goldendoodle puppy Scotland are proud to be a council licensed goldendoodle breeder who have supplied goldendoodle puppies across Scotland and throughout the world. A goldendoodle breeder in Scotland who you can trust! By continuing to use this site, you accept our use of cookies. Privacy Policy. About Us Welcome to Blue Ridge where you will find extensively health tested and socialised dogs and puppies. Our Vet is Armac Vets Tel. We share our lives with our dogs as they are our pride and joy. All our dogs are our pets first and foremost and we do not breed from any of our dogs unless they have been extensively health tested and all tests have come back clear. We strongly believe that all dogs whether they are boys or girls should be extensively health tested to make sure they are suitable for breeding so as we can produce the best pups possible. Research Before you set out on your quest to get a Cockapoo or Miniature Goldendoodle Puppy please do your research. These breeds are beautiful and amazing dogs which will give hours of pleasure, but you need to make sure they are right for you. We recommend you gain as much knowledge as you can about which type would suit you best F1, F2, F3 etc , how much grooming is required, coat type, exercise etc. A short time spent with these breeds will not in our opinion be enough to determine if your allergies are ok. We have other dogs who shed their coat therefore our home environment could trigger your allergies. What we would suggest that you do is to meet with someone who has one of these breeds first and spend some time to see how you react. Please be sure to tell us if you have allergies before you visit. Visiting Us We try to keep visitors to our puppies to a minimum for the safety and to protect them from cross contamination and infection. However, saying that we welcome anybody who has done their research and is serious about buying a Cockapoo or Miniature Goldendoodle from us. Visiting is by appointment only and we would respectfully ask that you keep as close to your appointment time as possible. Please wear suitable footwear that you can dip the soles in disinfectant.

Incredibly active dogs, the best way to keep a golden happy and healthy is to take them on regular walks and outings. But how long should a Golden Retriever be walked? A Golden Retriever should be walked at least 1 hour every day. If easier for the dog owner, walks and exercise time for goldens can be broken up into two minute sessions daily. This, of course, is the recommended walking time for a healthy adult Golden Retriever. Keep reading to find out more! This article may contain affiliate links and loyalgoldens may earn a commission if a purchase is made. Unlock your goldens natural intelligence and see just how quickly problem behaviors disappear. This is the best at home dog training I've ever used! Their job was to retrieve downed waterfowl, such as ducks and upland game birds during outings with their owners. These hunting excursions could last hours or even days, and golden retrievers were created to be able to last out in the field for long periods of time. These hunts included regular amounts of walking, running, climbing, and swimming. Even though most golden retrievers today are usually domesticated house dogs, they still have the genetic profile of a working dog and have been bred to be high-energy and very active. A long walk helps a retriever to relax its energetic mind and take in all the sights, sounds and smells they experience along the way. A golden retriever could literally walk all day long and cover dozens of miles. Fortunately for us, that much walking is not required. Ideally, a good walk for a golden can be 30 to 60 minutes in length. The daily walk with your golden retriever can be done all at once, or it can be done for shorter periods of time, multiple times a day. The speed of the walk should be pretty fast. A brisk walk is necessary because golden retrievers are difficult to fully tire out. Running with your golden, however, is not a requirement. How Long to Walk A Golden Retriever Puppy Golden Retriever puppies require daily walks as well, but you will want to reduce the duration and length, depending on their age. Golden retriever puppies require short 10 to 15 minute walks or no more than about 5 minutes per month of age. As a golden retriever puppy grows you can add an extra few minutes each month to your regular walking routine. Doing so will guarantee your puppy grows into a strong and healthy dog. Providing the proper amount of puppy exercise is also a great opportunity to introduce your young pup to other people and dogs. A regular shorter walk gives them a chance to become better socialized, which will make for a happier adult dog in the long run. Walking a Senior Golden Retriever For senior dogs, try walking approximately 30 to 45 minutes daily. As golden retrievers age, their bodies go through physical changes and begin to slow down. However, their joints need to remain mobile and their weight still needs to be monitored. So, they need to be walked, but not too much or it could be detrimental for their health and cause hip dysplasia. Dogs love routine. Try to plan a walk at the same time each day. Consistent walking throughout the week is considered healthier than one long weekend stroll. Discover how to train your Golden Retriever by playing games : 21 games to play with your Golden that will make them smarter and better behaved! Besides walking regularly, it is also important to have some high-intensity exercise and play to help exhaust your golden retriever and retain their muscle tone. Golden Retrievers need three types of regular exercise to thrive and be happy. Long walks — The longer the better within reason. Purposeful high-intensity activity and play — Activities such as playing fetch, swimming, or running off-leash. Mental exercise — Mental stimulation is a form of exercise as well and is absolutely necessary for a healthy golden. Find out which toys golden retrievers love to keep them mentally stimulated in our article here. The average adult Golden retriever needs at least 1 hour of exercise a day, ideally more. Their genetic bloodlines can also influence how much exercise a golden retriever requires. Golden retrievers coming from a working stock would need much more exercise than golden retrievers bred to be lap dogs. Failure to provide ample physical exercise and mental stimulation to a golden retriever can contribute to loneliness and behavioral problems. This can include aggressive actions, digging, constant barking, and even running away to have their own fun. Golden Retrievers are very food-driven breeds. Not exercising enough to burn off the calories they eat can eventually lead to them being overweight. Obesity can lead to extreme tension on the joints, possible injury to internal organs for example, the heart , and diabetes. Exercise is the pill that cures most golden retriever mental and behavioral issues, and a good long walk is at the top of the list. Generally, golden retrievers are obedient and typically have a strong recall if they are trained correctly. Proper dog training is the key to being able to successfully let your golden run off-leash. Alternatively, you can use a retractable dog leash to allow more flexibility while still retaining control during walks. A leash like this will give your golden plenty of room to run and explore, while staying in your control. To be safe, make sure the added weight is no more than 10 percent of their total body weight. Doing this is more than enough to fatigue a dog with endless energy, and it will help to strengthen their muscles without overworking them. Another option to increase resistance and wear your dog out and you too! Choosing a walking route with some challenges will increase the amount of exercise your dog gets from an outing. Hard surfaces such as these can be jarring on both the joints and paws. Instead, walk your retriever on a lush lawn or playground. Many major cities have dog walking areas or dog parks that are deemed safe. These waterproof booties will protect your dogs feet from the hot pavement, as well as ice and snow. Spread a little bit of this on their paws and it will take care of any cracking pads on their feet. This can be an issue on some trails and beaches, as well as sidewalks in the city. They are also incredibly smart, meaning they need to keep their minds busy as well as their bodies. To avoid boredom, it is imperative to have sufficient physical and mental activity. A minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, including walks and purposeful play, for muscle building and mental relaxation is required for a happy and healthy golden retriever. Not doing so can result in an anxious and frustrated dog, which creates behavioral problems such as barking, digging, escaping, and overall aggressive behavior. Because golden retrievers are also vulnerable to being overweight, regular walking and a balanced diet can help regulate their weight and reduce their risk of obesity. In some cases, your new pup might not want to walk at all. You should walk your dog 3 times a day after breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Puppies need just as much attention as any other pet because they are still learning how to behave. The length of time that you should go for a walk depends on the age of your puppy. Older puppies can go for longer, but younger ones may tire more easily so you should keep an eye on them. What are the benefits of walking a pup? Walking a pup is a great way to provide some much-needed exercise and time alone. If you have a busy schedule and don't have the time to take your dog on regular walks, consider hiring a professional dog walker or a neighbourhood friend. A lot of people are unsure about how long they should walk their dogs. Some people walk their dogs for hours, while others walk them for just a few minutes. As mentioned above, the answer is different for every person and dog. Generally, younger dogs might not have the energy that older dogs will. Try starting with an hour a day and finding a comfortable spot for you and your dog. What are the risks of not taking your pup for walks? If you have a new puppy, it is important for them to get exercise and socialization. If you do not take them for walks, they will feel too cooped up and stressed. They may also develop bad habits like chewing and digging. In some cases, they can even develop a bad habit of not wanting to walk at all. In other words, your dog might become lazy and it can be hard for you to get them into the habit of going on walks again. How much exercise does a pup need per day? A young pup needs an average of 45 minutes to an hour of exercise per day. For this, it's important to choose a time when the pup will have the most energy. Ideally, this should be in the morning or evening when they're most likely to be active. In order for a puppy to stay healthy and happy, it's important that they get enough exercise. Some dog parks allow you to let your dog run around freely. You could also play with your dog using dog toys. Try out a few of these and see what your dog enjoys best. The most important factor is the breed of the dog. Puppies from larger breeds will need more exercise, and therefore need to be walked for longer periods of time. In addition, as mentioned above the age of the pup is a factor too. Puppies that are older will be able to go for longer walks without getting tired, so their walks can last a little bit less than a younger pup's walk. The third factor that affects how long your puppy should go for a walk is the environment in which you live. If you live in an urban area with lots of sidewalks and parks, then your pup will likely be able to go on shorter walks than if they lived in an area with fewer sidewalks and parks available to them. Dogs need a lot of exercise. They are also capable of doing a lot more than just running around in the backyard. Dogs are not just pets, they are our friends and companions. They deserve to be happy and healthy too. That is why their owners should take care of their needs, including exercise requirements. The amount of exercise that your dog needs will vary depending on its size, age, and breed. If you have a small dog like a toy poodle or chihuahua then they will need less exercise than if you have a large dog like an Irish wolfhound or Labrador retriever. The short answer to this question is "it depends". It is important to note that there are many factors that determine the right amount of time you should walk your dog. The first thing to consider is the age and size of your dog. A puppy or a small breed dog might need fewer walks than a larger breed adult dog. The distance you live from a park or other area where your pet can go off-leash also plays a role in how often you need to walk them. In general, minutes per day should be enough for most dogs, but it's always best to consult with your veterinarian for specific recommendations. What are the benefits of walking a puppy for longer periods of time? Walking a puppy is important, but walking a puppy for longer periods of time has some additional benefits. The first benefit is that it strengthens the bond between the dog and its owner. The second benefit is that you can get more exercise by walking your pup for an hour at a time, which means you'll be able to do other things that you enjoy. What are the risks of not walking a pup for long enough periods of time? It is important to take your pup for walks on a regular basis, even if it is just for a short period of time. If left alone for extended periods, dogs can become bored. This can lead to separation anxiety and other bad behaviour. What is the Correct Way to Walk a Puppy? It's a common misconception that all dogs need to be walked the same way. In reality, there are many different techniques for dog walking , and it's important to figure out which one is best for your furry friend. Remember that puppies may be very hyper and full of energy. They may want to run off in several different directions. When walking your puppy try to keep them calm and moving. And More! Training a puppy to enjoy their walks can be a challenge. The best way to train your puppy is by using positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement is the best way to train a puppy to enjoy their walks. You should start with short, frequent walks and gradually increase the time spent walking every day. Eventually, you will be able to walk your dog for as long as you want without any issues! There is no set time for how long a puppy or senior dog should go for walks. A senior dog should be walked less often than a puppy, but they can still go on long walks. How long should a puppy be walked for compared to adult dogs? Dogs age much faster than humans, meaning that puppies should be walked for a shorter duration than an adult dog. Experts recommend that owners walk their puppy for about 15 minutes per day, and gradually increase the time as they grow. What should you do if your pup is not interested in going on walks? There are many ways to get your pup walking. I've found that playing with a favourite toy or throwing a handful of treats on the ground will usually do the trick. It's not easy to teach a dog how to walk on a leash. But don't give up, it takes some time and patience! Walking your puppy is a great way to keep them healthy and happy. So, start walking your puppy today! More Training. Read the full disclosure here. All dogs need exercise to live a fit, healthy and fulfilling life. No matter the breed, no matter how large or small, no matter their age, they all need exercise. But some need more than others. So what are the Golden Retriever exercise requirements? Golden Retrievers Are A High Energy Sporting Breed As the name suggests, the Golden Retriever is a sporting breed initially created to retrieve fallen game for hunters in the Scottish highlands in the 19th century. Retrieving in the Scottish Highlands, with its mountainous landscape pot-holed with ponds, lakes and streams is very physically demanding work. So when they set out to create the Goldens, they had to be a high energy, sturdy breed with lots of stamina and an affinity for water. They needed a dog that could travel large distances, hiking and swimming in rough terrain for the best part of a full day. And with this breed, this is exactly what they got. They need physical activity. They become very destructive , chewing , digging, and running around your home and garden like little tornadoes. Too full of pent-up energy to be able to concentrate and behave themselves well and some will even try to escape their home and garden at every opportunity. Only now, all that food will just turn into fat and lead to poor health and weight issues. Yes, Golden Retrievers are very prone to obesity. Usually a combination of their owners doing two things: Giving in too often to those expertly crafted begging routines. Not giving their pooch anywhere near a sufficient level of exercise. Excess weight leads to a variety of problems such as heart disease, increased risk of diabetes, high blood pressure and damage to their hip and elbow joints. Keeping your Golden at a healthy weight is the responsibility of any caring owner. This rule basically states: A puppy needs no more than 5 minutes of exercise for each month it has been alive. So a 3-month-old puppy needs only 15 minutes exercise per day, a 5-month-old needs 25 minutes. This exercise is a proper, structured exercise. Meaning brisk walking on leash, gentle games of fetch. Puppies are growing fast and their bones and joints can be easily damaged by over-exercising. Follow the 5 minute rule and encourage very little jumping or vigorous exercise! Continue the 5 minute rule until your golden is nearing one year old. As a general rule to follow, a healthy adult Golden retriever exercise needs consist of a good hour of exercise every day. But the genetics of your dog could mean you need to increase or decrease this. Those retrievers from a working field line will be more energetic and have higher exercise needs, perhaps as much as 2 hours per day. Whereas those from show lines could get by on 45 minutes. But all Goldens need regular exercise, at least twice per day or they will become bored and probably destructive. Try to provide different forms of exercise such as hiking, running, swimming, playing fetch…you need to stimulate their minds as well as their hearts and muscles. They will take every bit of physical activity you throw at them and then be able to do much more. You will tire yourself out long before you can tire them! Some Golden retrievers suffer arthritis and other joint pains as they age. If this is the case with your dog, please speak to your vet and follow their advice. With some ailments exercise can make things worse and you do not want that for your dog. Like humans, dogs are individuals and age differently. Just be mindful of not asking too much of your elderly dog. They can still enjoy walking long distances and swimming, just avoid jumping hedges and chasing balls for an hour straight. Believe me, you will know! In all cases, if your Golden has behavioral problems and seems highly strung and out of control, the first thing you should do is have them checked by a vet for health issues. And if they receive a clean bill of health then the simplest of cures for a better behaved dog is to exercise them more. Try it for a few days, you just may be surprised at the results: An exercised Golden is a calm and happy Golden! Conclusion Golden Retrievers are a high energy sporting breed and require a lot of exercise. A lack of it can lead to a variety of health problems, hyperactivity and behavioral problems! So for a healthy and happy dog…and owner…provide your beloved puppy with just as much physical activity as they need and deserve! Jogging alongside you, running along as you cycle, going for long hikes , the occasional swim and sessions of playing fetch all qualify as good Golden Retriever training. You will stay fit and active and happy together. You May Also Like. Sep 13, Sep 20, This post may contain affiliate links. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. Our goldens are such high-energy dogs. In order to stay mentally and physically healthy, they require exercise. They need more exercise than many dogs. Of course, the amount and type of exercise will vary based on their age, genetics, health, and overall health and fitness. He may become destructive or he may gain weight. So, to keep him healthy and happy, he should be well-exercised. Even adult goldens may chew the wrong items like your furniture and dig in your garden when under-exercised. Or they may bark excessively, jump on counters or people even when trained not to, or be mouthy. Also, he may gain too much weight. This can lead to heart disease, risk of diabetes, high blood pressure, and damage to hips and elbows. A dog who receives enough exercise has toned muscles. Exercise also keeps his body and metabolic system functioning properly and engages his mind. Of course, puppies, adult goldens, and seniors will require various amounts and types of exercise. But generally golden retrievers, being sporting dogs meant to work, need more exercise than many breeds. Genetics enter into the equation. This can also help you determine what type of exercises to include in his regimen. So a three-month-old puppy should receive no more than 15 minutes of exercise up to two times a day. And break up the time he plays. For example, have a short minute walk and, after a break, a three-minute fetch session. Then, after another break, a two-minute training session. Vary the activities. Doing all these activities will not only help your pup exercise, but it will also help further your bond. My rescued golden retriever Riley came to me when he was about six months old. To say that he was energetic would be an understatement. He would jump on us, be mouthy, and generally destructive when he arrived. Of course, he needed training. But I also had to meet his exercise needs so that we could have a great relationship. So I took him on long walks, played fetch with his Kong ball, played tug and release, and played with puzzle toys. He also played with my other dogs. And he went to daycare two or three days or half-days per week. Between mental and physical exercise, he became the great dog he was meant to be. He enjoys life, loves everyone, and is very well-behaved wherever he goes. But he was worth it. Of course a young adult or one from hunting lines may need more. They may even need an hour-and-a-half or two hours per day. Just like us, goldens are individuals. But others may still be very active at 10 years old. Of course, some goldens are still very active at that age and beyond. But how much and the type of exercise they should engage in depends on their general health. The same is true of goldens with disabilities. They still require a sufficient amount of exercise according to their needs. Types of Exercise for Your Golden Of course both physical and mental exercise are required to have a healthy dog. There are many choices that will help your dog be fit and happy. Always monitor your dog to see if he seems too tired or appears to be injured. Stop and seek veterinary advice. Start out slowly and add time over many sessions as your pup can handle it. Vary the exercises. Some can be performed inside as well as outside. So even on a rainy day, you can sufficiently exercise your dog and meet his needs. Walking or Running Of course, you should first teach your dog to walk on a loose leash before exercising him on a leash. Walks at a natural pace are best for most goldens. Start with short walks, increasing them over time. Avoid walks on the hottest or coldest part of the day. Always walk on safe footing and avoid slippery or sharp surfaces. Of course, running is another matter. The pounding may be too much. Running on soft running paths or level grass can be alright for some dogs. Of course, a full vet checkup should occur before starting any running program with your beloved golden retriever. Some people jog with a dog. Others may skate or ride a bike with their golden alongside. Of course, some dogs enjoy hiking with their people. There are many sights and smells for a dog to enjoy. Play Groups Your puppy or dog can also get a lot of varied exercise playing with appropriate dog playmates. Dogs romp and wrestle together. You can set up your own or join in to well-run dog playgroups or even dog daycares. Playing With Your Dog You can play fetch with your dog if he knows how to retrieve and give up the toy on cue. He may even fetch a favorite ball. Or play tug with a toy like a rope or fleece toy if your dog will take it and release it on cue. The options are limitless. You can play hide and seek with your golden while inside. You can heel with him, have him come on cue, or teach him to wave! Mentally Stimulating Toys There are many activity toys you can buy or you can make your own. Some are puzzle toys where your golden seeks out kibble or treats. Or treat-dispensing balls. If you or a friend has a swimming pool, you can teach your dog to swim. They make life vests for safety. Start him in shallow water and build from there, with you accompanying him. Always make sure that he knows where the steps are and how to get out of the water. My golden Spencer used to like to swim in the bay when we vacationed at the shore. He was a great swimmer, but he wore a doggy life vest and I had him on a long-line for safety. There are also dog facilities like boarding and daycares and vet hospitals that have facilities where your pup may swim. Swimming provides a great cardio workout as well as being easier on joints than many land exercises. This can be good for dogs with joint problems and arthritis. In fact, aqua therapy is often used for dogs who need physical rehabilitation from injuries or surgery. The following suggestions can be performed in competitions or just for fun and exercise. You can even join a dog training club or take courses to learn how to perform these activities. There are so many choices, including: Lure coursing, where a dog chases after a plastic bag attached to a lure that whizzes by on a specially designed course. Sight hounds often participate in this sport. Scent work, in which a dog finds something by scent. Agility, where a dog learns to run a designated course with tunnels, weave poles, dog walks, and teeter totters. Flyball, where a dog learns to jump over a course of jumps and retrieve a ball. Rally obedience, in which you train your dog to walk through a course accompanied by you. He performs certain tasks at each sign on the ground that you encounter. He may have to sit and lie down and perform other obedience exercises throughout the course. Dock diving is a sport in which goldens and labs excel—usually being water-loving dogs. He stays on the dock, awaiting your command. He then runs along the dock and flings his body into the water to retrieve the toy. In competition, the goal is to have the longest jump possible. You should be able to feel his ribs without seeing them. Some occasional zoomies are natural. And he should also be able to listen and pay attention to you and to perform known commands, Too much exercise can be as bad as not enough. Final Thoughts Just like us, goldens need physical and mental exercise to remain healthy. It will also further the bond with your four-legged best friend. How much exercise does your golden receive? What activities have you tried? Please leave your comments in the section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. Check out more of our favorites on our New Puppy Checklist. Debbie has been training dogs for over 24 years and has nationally ranked obedience and rally dogs, agility dogs, trick dogs, and therapy dogs. Post navigation. Excessive ball throwing and catching. Fast-paced walks. Walking on hot days. Running a puppy alongside a bike. Dogs and puppies should not be exercised immediately before or after eating, as this can cause problems such as bloating. How to Exercise A Golden Retriever Puppy Providing puppies with the opportunity to exercise is a very important aspect of their healthy life. Not only does exercise have multiple health benefits, but it also gives them a good opportunity to socialize and bond with their owner. Check the temperature outside to avoid overheating. Make sure they wear a proper collar and tag. Make sure they are comfortable with their collar and leash. During Eeercise One way to help your puppy get exercise is by having them on a leash with you and following these tips: Walk at a normal pace. Stop to rest if your puppy keeps sitting down and continue when they get back up. Avoid over-exercising. You can also allow your puppy to exercise without a leash. Allow your pet to run freely in a safe environment, such as a backyard or designated dog park. Having them off the leash is a good way for them to regulate their own pace and exercise they want but do watch for: Watch out for signs of fatigue, including panting, slowing their pace, and lagging behind you. Watch for overheating signs such as excessive panting, drooling, vomiting or agitation. Keep your puppy hydrated. Signs that your dog is overheating and what you can do to help After exercise After your puppy has finished his exercise, make sure to offer them plenty of fresh, clean water and allow them to rest. After they have calmed down and rested, you can offer them a healthy treat or feed them. Exercise For Your Puppy In addition to giving your puppy short, daily walks, here are some other options of exercise that your pup will enjoy. Swimming Swimming is a great exercise for all dogs as it helps strengthen and tone muscles. Get your puppy familiar with water first after they are 3 months old. Fetch Golden Retrievers are meant for retrieving, so a good game of fetch will come naturally to them. Just make sure to watch for any signs of tiring. Dog toys that move There is a wide variety of interactive toys for puppies that are highly stimulating and can help with exercise. Play with other dogs Having your puppy be around other dogs is a good way to give them an exercise buddy while they work on important social skills. Whist Golden Retrievers instinctively know how to retrieve, they need to be trained from a very young age to catch. Signs Your Puppy is Getting Too Much Exercise Exercise keeps joints limber, promotes good range of motion, maintains muscle mass, and can help prevent injury. But too much of it can actually cause injury. Watch out for signs of over-exercise like sore muscles, behavioral changes, and joint injury. Sore Muscles Sore muscles are a sign that your pup is getting too much exercise. Refusing or struggling to go up and down the stairs. Refusing to eat because it hurts to lower down. If you notice signs of soreness, give them time to rest and lower the amount of exercise they are getting. Continuing to exercise, at this point, can lead to injury. Behavioral changes If your puppy usually enjoys going for walks with you but starts to shy away from walking or whimpers when you begin the walk, this is showing you that something is not right. Inconsistent conditioning can lead to changes in behavior as well as injury. If there is a joint injury, your puppy will begin to limp or favor one leg over the other. Another sign that is said to be a sign of joint injury is if you notice your dog putting its head down while walking on the good leg but lifting its head when walking on the bad leg. Heat sickness Heat exhaustion is a concern during the warmer months. Younger dogs have difficulty regulating body temperatures, so too much exercise can cause them to overheat. Signs of heat exhaustion are excessive panting, disinterest in eating, and drooling. Stopping suddenly can also scrape the bottom of the paws, causing the outer layer of the pad to wear off. It is good not to drag your dog while they are leashed, instead, be patient with them and listen to their cues. Golden Retrievers are popular dogs for outdoor activities. That is why we feature them here at Outdoor Dog Fun with these articles:.

Apart from the unique colors, there are also different types of Labradoodle coats that you can opt for. Learning about these different coat types will not only help you reach a decision as to what type of coat you would like your Labradoodle to have but also help you learn how to care for it and what to expect as your pup grows. So, pet owners should expect a pleasant surprise as their dog ages. Types Of Labradoodle Coat Labradoodles sure know how to stand out from the rest, thanks to their eye-catching coats! In fact, this breed of dog is popular among dog lovers especially for their coats as they are one of the very few breeds whose fur does not give out any odor. There are three main types of coats that Labradoodles can have. While all three are uniquely special in their own way, the shedding for each type of coat also varies and each coat thus has its own grooming needs. Hair Coated Labradoodles Straight Coat Labradoodle Of the three types of coats, the straight or hair coated Labradoodle is the least popular owing to the fact that it sheds the most out of the three types and is thus not completely allergy-friendly. It also carries a slight odor. Some Labradoodles will look more like Labradors that Poodles. Straight and wavy hair often look more like Labradoodles. Its straight hair is inherited from the Labrador parent and is significantly different in appearance from the fleece and wool coated Labradoodles. Labradoodles are not born with their teddy bear-like appearance. In fact, their coat begins to grow only after the pup reaches 12 weeks of age. The straight hair coat is commonly visible in the first generation Labradoodle litter that is bred by the pairing of a Poodle with a Labrador Retriever. The muzzle area is usually hair coated and will determine their coat type. The hair coated type of breed is scruffy, coarse, and wiry to touch. And the good news is this type of coat is very easy to maintain. The straight coat also means that it can vary in length and thickness, so you may have to take your dog to the grooming salon more often than you may imagine. It is also possible to control the shedding by ensuring that your dog is regularly clipped and groomed. However, if you or anyone in your family has dog allergies, hair coated Labradoodles are a complete no-no. Although for someone with a general allergy, they may be able to tolerate it. Wool Coated Labradoodles Curly Coat Labradoodle The second most favored type of coat of this breed, the wool coated Labradoodle has dense and thick fur. This coat of a Labradoodle is so soft, you might just find yourself touching their soft wool all the time. This rich black coat is a fairly common Labradoodle shade. When it comes to shedding, you have nothing to worry about with this type of coat. This is a non-shedding coat so people with allergies can rest easy with these doodles. However, a visit to the grooming salon cannot be completely avoided. It is important that you take your pet Labradoodle once every six weeks for regular clipping and grooming in order to maintain their healthy coat. It is simply because this one is the easiest to maintain compared to the wool coated and the hair coated ones. My Labradoodle max has a apricot wavy coat. My Labradoodle Max wearing his party hat. Of the three types of coats of Labradoodles, the fleece coat is hypoallergenic in nature, which means this breed is relatively unlikely to cause any allergic reaction. The fleece-coated Labradoodle comes in three varieties — straight, loose curls, and very curly. The fleece coat Labradoodles has a soft feel to it and is overall wavy. And if they do shed, it is minimal. The minimal shedding also means that you can brush their coats once every week. This kind of coat also requires maintenance, so make sure you take your Labradoodle for clipping and grooming several times a year depending on its growth. It will give you a better idea about the type of coat your pup might grow into. For example, if the muzzle fur on your pup shows signs of crimps or waves, it will most likely develop a shaggy or woolly coat. However, in the case of the fleece haired coat, you will be able to determine the coat by the time your doodle pup is around five weeks old. If it appears to be curling, then you can be almost certain that your pup will have a fleece haired coat. Both Labradoodles and Cockapoos have beautiful coat colors Genetics We can make our guesses and wish and hope, but at the end of the day, it all comes down to genetics. As the curly coat is a recessive trait, the eventual coat of your Labradoodle will depend on which one of the following genotypes your dog has: 1. It also essentially guarantees that your dog will pass down the CuC to its offspring. The Cu locus test is a DNA test that will tell you whether your pup will develop a straight, wool, or fleece coat. Labradoodle Coat Stages Generally, Labradoodle puppies start shedding their puppy coat by the time they reach six to twelve months of age. However, this varies depending on the type of coat your Labradoodle puppy has. A Red Miniature Labradoodle looks happy in the studio. Well, almost every Labradoodle puppy undergoes a coat change. And as the puppy coat begins to shed or get replaced by an adult coat, the need for grooming also increases. A Labradoodle puppy coat is finer and softer to touch than the adult coat. The new adult coat is usually thicker and smoother than the puppy coat. As to when your puppy will start shedding, it usually begins at the six-month mark. But usually, your pup will start to shed anytime between six to nine months of age. Losing all their puppy coats and developing an adult one is a slow and gradual process. It typically takes up to a year, sometimes a year and a half. This is very important or else the fur will knot up with the new growth of the adult coat and will cause mats, which will only aggravate your pup. This is why most breeders mix and match one generation with another to bring about certain qualities. Grooming Your Labradoodle Grooming your Labradoodle can be time-consuming and often tiresome, but it is also very necessary. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Depending on the type of Labradoodle and their coat, you should ideally be brushing your dog at least once a week to avoid matting. The amount of brushing also depends on the activities the dog engages in on an everyday basis. Comb A simple stainless steel or a wooden comb should do the job. Make sure it has wider teeth on one end and finer on the other. Brush You need to choose a brush wisely by taking into consideration the coat of your Labradoodle puppy so that the bristles can go deep into its coat. Fleece coated pups are the easiest to brush. Detangler A detangler is used to de-knot the coat of your Labradoodle, and it is very gentle so it does its job without hurting your pet or causing them any distress. It works great along with a comb or a de-matting comb as it helps loosen the tangles and mats. If you do not have time to make a trip to the grooming salon, a detangler can sort you out for the moment. De-Matting Comb When you own a Labradoodle, tangles and mats are bound to happen more frequently if you do not brush your dog very often. If you keep putting off brushing them, a comb or brush will no longer do the trick. That is when a de-matting comb will come to the rescue. A running white Labradoodle Conclusion The Labradoodle breed is taking over the world in the popularity contest, making it one of the most sought-after breeds to own across the US. Its charming looks combined with its low-shedding fur make it even more desirable. 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. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. This gene determines how soft the coat will be. Furnishings are facial hair. This trait test is a breeder's best indication for shedding. Hair, Fleece or Wool? Labradoodles can have coats that shed a lot, shed a little, and that do not shed at all. There are differences you should be aware of to help you determine which coat would be better suited for you and your family. It can be difficult for a breeder to predict coat-types for first and second generation F1 or F1b labradoodles. Some pups are wavy when born and have produced very fleece type coats when they got older. Some pups are straighter haired when born and end up with a beautiful fluffy non shedding coat. Then there are some pups that appear like they have a wavy coat, but end up shedding, or a pup that looks wavy but ends up curly as an adult. The only way to know for sure what coat you are getting from an F1b litter, is to have the coats DNA tested. Doodle Sweethearts includes this in their breeding program using Paw Print Genetics! The fleece coat is low to non shedding, depending on 1 or 2 furnishings; tends to look shaggier than wool and it hangs in silky, light, loose locks which flow and ripple when the dog moves. Some feel this is the ultimate labradoodle coat or teddy bear coat. Puppy coat is easy to care for, but during transition to the adult coat, it can become very high maintenance due to matting. The final adult coat may or may not be easy care after puppy transition has been completed. Mostly non-shedding, but some have been known to shed minimally. Should be fairly allergy friendly Should be no doggie odour. Typically seen in F1B labradoodles or second generation and multigen lines. There are different types of fleece coats as well, some fine or thick, some wavy, curly or straight. As a puppy this sometimes can be hard to differentiate between a fleece coat or a wool as an adult, but with DNA coat testing, this can be determined. Fleece and wool coats can be kept short or long depending on your lifestyle but generally need to be clipped times a year every wks Weekly brushing is required to clear any mattes Curly Soft Wool Coat What is a Curly Soft Wool Coat? Wool is generally non shedding; it is denser and thicker, curlier and soft.Fleece and wool coats can be kept short or long depending on your lifestyle but generally need to be clipped times a year every wks Weekly brushing is required to clear any mattes Unlike some other breeds, dogs with fleece and wool coats shed very little dander skin cells a common cause of allergies in humans which makes them excellent for households with allergies. Proudly created with Wix. You may be wondering how dogs within the same breed can have coats that differs so much. Your dogs genetic line ultimately determines the type of coat they will have. First generation Labradoodles, the litter of a Poodle and Labrador parent, typically have a non shedding coat that is wavy with loose curls. A F1B Labradoodle, the direct result of one Labradoodle parent one Poodle parent, generally have wavy or fleece fur. Both F1 Labradoodles and F1B generation Labradoodles are recommended for those families with allergy sufferers. In saying this, non-allergenic hair coated Labradoodles, are the most common in the first generation breeds. A hair coated Labradoodle does not look similar in appearance to their fleece and wool coated brothers and sisters. A hair coated Labradoodle often referred to as having a straight coat looks more like their Labrador parent. Often these Labradoodles look scruffy in appearance. The muzzle area of a hair coated Labradoodle will be smooth and straight. They do not have the typical fluffy teddy appearance that the typical Labradoodle sports. While a hair coated Labradoodle sheds, their coat can be easily maintained. These dogs are great for families that are time poor for daily grooming although they are not suited to families that have allergies. A hair coated Labradoodle is often only the result in a first generation litter. The hair coated Labradoodles are less desirable by breeders due to the fact their hair coat sheds often. The hair coat feels wiry to touch. Furthermore, the coat of a fleece Labradoodle is said to be the easiest to maintain. This low shedding coat generally a non-shedding coat should be brushed out at least once a week. Fleece coated Labradoodles should feel soft to touch. The curls within the fleece can be slightly wavy to noticeably wavy. Kemp a course hair is often found around the eyes of a fleece coated Labradoodle. The tightness of the curl purely depends on the Labradoodles genetics. While some wool coated Labradoodles have tight curls that appear similar to the coat of their Poodle parent, others have a loose curled coat. If you own a curly coated Labradoodle, it is recommended that you groom your dog once a day. Alternatively, you may opt to shave your dogs coat shorter so that it can be easily maintained. The coat of a curly Labradoodle can almost be guaranteed to be non-shedding. Mats in a Labradoodles fur make it uncomfortable for them to run and lead an active lifestyle. It is recommended to take wool coated Labradoodles to a professional groomer every six weeks to maintain a healthy coat. A wool coated Labradoodle feels soft to touch and has a coat similar to that of a lamb. The wool coat of a Labradoodle should hang with hollow spiral when groomed appropriately. Often wool coated Labradoodles have dense and thick fur. Allowing your dogs coat to grow excessively leads to matting and in turn pain for your Labradoodle. The shedding coat is not desirable in this breed which is generally the result of a hair coated Labradoodle. In terms of grooming your Labradoodle, it is recommended to book them in to see a trained dog groomer every 6 to 8 weeks. This applies to any coat type. Although hair coats do not require as much maintenance, the hair inside your dogs ears should be plucked regularly to avoid infection and build up. Furthermore, your dogs nails will need to be clipped regularly especially if you only have grass and no concrete. Regularly home grooming should be performed to keep your Labradoodles coat in pristine condition without matting. Ensure you purchase a pet grooming brush recommended for long and thick hair while you Labradoodle is still a puppy. Related posts:. As you might have guessed, this dog is a cross between poodle and Labrador parents — and the result is an adorable bundle of joy with a sweet, gentle personality. Labradoodle puppy coats come in a range of colors and textures, so labradoodle owners are spoiled for choice when choosing their fur baby. Read on to discover more about Labradoodles and labradoodle coat types. What Are Hypoallergenic Dog Coats? Hypoallergenic dogs have less of a thick coat than many other breeds. A highly shedding coat presents a higher risk to allergy sufferers than non-shedding dogs like a labradoodle puppy. As a dog with one of the most allergy-friendly coats , there are a few practicalities to keep in mind when it comes to your labradoodle pooch and its coat. Pretty much every labradoodle puppy goes through a coat change, which is separate from a shedding coat. The puppy coat is eventually replaced by an adult coat, which comes with more grooming requirements. Types of Labradoodle Puppy Coats One of the best things about labradoodle dogs is the wide range of choices with regard to appearance. Wool Coat You can determine if your Labradoodle puppy has a fleece coat. You can identify fleece coats by the way the fur sits between the eyes, as this area starts to get curly first. This is the curliest coat type, but it still comes in a variety of types. Some dogs with a curly coat have a cotton-type coat, which is the softest but also incredibly high maintenance. Labradoodle puppies with wool Labradoodle puppy coats are mainly non-shedding and can make great companions for pet owners with allergies. Fleece Coat Doodles with a fleece coat require a little less maintenance than the other types of doodles, but they still need weekly brushing and plenty of TLC. A fleece-coated labradoodle is the result of combining a curly wool coat gene with the gene for a straight coat. Areas such as the ears and collar are particularly prone to getting matted, so be sure to pay close attention to these areas when you brush your fleece-coated labradoodle once or twice per week. Hair Coat A labradoodle with a straight coat has inherited most of its fur genes from its Labrador retriever parent. Something interesting about Labradoodles is that their Labradoodle puppy coats change as they get older, so your hair-coated labradoodle might get a wave to its fur as it gets older. While you can also take it to a professional groomer on a weekly basis, this can incur hefty grooming costs. Most labradoodle owners opt to take their dog to a groomer once a month or two and do regular adult coat maintenance themselves. Use the correct type of dog brush and be sure to get all the way down to the skin. Give your dog a brush before and after bath time. All puppies eventually lose their puppy coat to make way for their adult coat, this goes the same with Labradoodle puppy coats. You might find the new type of coat is totally different from the old coat. Coats and Generational Differences The amount of hair your dog sheds varies between puppies, but generational differences can also play a role. First-generation doodles shed slightly more than second-generation doodles, with multigenerational Labradoodles shedding even less. We genetically test each breeding parent to make sure the shedding genes are not passed on to the puppies in our training program. We adore the breed and have a wide range of Labradoodle puppies for sale to choose from, with different color and type of Labradoodle puppy coats. We can even deliver a fully trained doodle puppy direct to your door if you like! Adult Labradoodle coats generally fall into three categories: hair coats, fleece coats, and wool coats. But, all of these are quite different to puppy coats! Adult Labradoodle Coat Types There are three main types of adult Labradoodle coat , and they are quite easy to tell apart from one another. However, this coat type will only reveal itself after your Doodle has shed their puppy coat. Here are the three types of coat that your puppy could have: Hair coat — straight hair, double layered, moderate to high shedding. This is the most like the purebred Labrador Retriever. Fleece coat — wavy fur, either double or single layered, low to moderate shedding. This coat feels like angora wool. Wool coat — tightly curled or corded, single layer, low shedding. This coat is the most like the purebred Poodle. These coat types look quite different from one another when your Labradoodle is an adult. But, as puppies, Doodles with these different coat types can look quite similar. So, what does a Labradoodle puppy coat look like? The Labradoodle Puppy Coat Labradoodles of all coat types look very similar when they are puppies. A Labradoodle puppy coat is always single layered, very soft to the touch, and often has a slight wave or curl. This puppy coat will start to shed from around 6 months of age. But, the amount of time it takes for a puppy to fully shed this coat and expose their adult coat can vary. For some, the full process can take as long as a year and a half! But, only when this puppy coat sheds will it become obvious what fur type your Labradoodle has. And, some breeders may be able to do so. But, in reality, it is very hard to do, especially if your puppy is a first generation mix i. This is because the puppy can inherit any mix of traits from their parents, and Poodles have very different fur to Labradors. If your Labradoodle puppy is a second or third generation, or if they have been backcrossed to a Poodle, their adult coat may be slightly easier to predict. There are plenty of tips available from breeders when trying to determine the adult coat of your Labradoodle puppy. The curlier this fur is, the more Poodle-like they suggest the adult coat will be. Others may state that you can make the same assumptions by looking at the whole coat — the wavier this is, the curlier the adult coat will be. But, you must remember that your puppy will shed this coat to allow their adult fur to grow in. And all Labradoodle puppies can look very similar in those early months, as puppy coats are very different to the three potential adult coats. The best way to predict what coat your Labradoodle puppy may grow up to have is to observe the parent dogs. The more similar their coats are, the easier it will be to predict the type of coat your puppy will have. What if the Parents Are Different? But, if the parents are quite different, such as with a first generation Labradoodle, things can be a little harder. This is because puppies can inherit any mix of genes and traits from their parents. So, even within a single litter, first generation Labradoodle puppies can look very different from one another. In these cases, you will often have to wait till your puppy is a little older to see exactly which traits they will express. If you are searching for a specific type of Labradoodle coat, it is usually best to choose later generation puppies. For instance, people with allergies often seek the wool coat Labradoodle, as the curly fur catches shedding dander and can help to reduce dog allergy symptoms. Some experienced breeders may be able to accurately predict it from a young age. But, in most cases, you will be best off looking at the parent dogs. If they have similar coats, your puppy will likely grow up to look that way too. We would love to hear your experiences with the Labradoodle coat in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Straight, double layered coat. Most similar to the Labrador parent. Moderate to high shedding. Wavy coat, most often single layer. Somewhere between the two parents. Low to moderate shedding. Very curly or corded fur, single layer. Most similar to the Poodle parent. Low shedding but the highest grooming needs. The above table explains the most common Labradoodle hair types at a glance. What Determines Labradoodle Hair Types? However, in later generations, breeders can increase the likelihood of certain traits, like a curly, low shedding coat. Australian Labradoodles can have genetic influence from up to 6 different breeds. So, they will often have fleece or wool coats that are single layered and low shedding, like the Poodle. Some breeders will specialize in certain hair types. By backcrossing a Labradoodle to a Poodle, for instance, they can increase the change of curly fur, resulting in fleece or wool type puppies. A first generation f1 mix is the most likely to have the hair type coat, since they often have the largest amount of Labrador influence. They will have a double layered coat with a straight top layer. Hair Labradoodles tend to feel quite coarse to the touch. Their double coat helps to regulate their temperature, but will also protect their skin from scrapes and cuts, just like the Labrador coat. The hair coat Labradoodle will shed the most, just like their Labrador parent. During the hot months, they shed heavily, thinning out their dense undercoat. For the rest of the year, they will shed moderately. But, this can be somewhat controlled with regular grooming. Groom them once a week in low shedding periods, and up this to two or three times a week during those hot months. It can also help to groom your hair coat Labradoodle outside, to avoid getting loose hairs in your home! Fleece Coat Labradoodle A fleece coat Labradoodle will usually look like the perfect mix between the Labrador and the Poodle! They will have a wavy coat, or very gentle curls that feel soft to the touch. In fact, many owners describe this hair type as feeling like angora wool. Some fleece Labradoodles may have an undercoat, but the majority will only have one layer. If left to grow long, their coat will develop a shaggy appearance. This type of Labradoodle is the most popular, and the one referred to by the term teddy bear Doodle! But, they can still be moderate shedders at worst. It will vary from one Doodle to another. They will need more grooming than a hair coat Labradoodle, as the waves and curls in their fur will be more prone to tangles and knots. You will need to groom a fleece Doodle a few times each week, if not every day. Their fur will either have very tight ringlet curls, or will be corded, like dreadlocks. Individual strands of fur will feel very coarse to the touch, much like the hair type. But, the wool coat only comes in a single layer. This coat type is extremely low shedding. But, this means that regular grooming is much more important, as tangles and knots are more likely. If left alone, their fur can become matted , which is painful and often requires shaving to fix it. Wool coat Labradoodles must be groomed at least once a day. Which Labradoodle Hair Type is Hypoallergenic? Wool and fleece coat Labradoodles can be low shedding, but no Labradoodle is hypoallergenic. In fact, no dog breed is completely hypoallergenic! So, a wool or fleece coat Labradoodle could still trigger your allergy symptoms. If you suffer from dog allergies, there are a few precautions you can take. Firstly, spend some time with a Labradoodle before committing. See if you react to their allergens, or if you can tolerate them. All dogs are different! So, one might not trigger you as much as others have in the past. Secondly, maintain a good cleaning regime. Ask another family member to groom your dog for you, and make sure they do so outside. You can take your Labradoodle to a professional groomer, but they will still need brushing in between trips. Fleece coat Labradoodles are the most popular variety of Doodle. This is because they are often low shedding and feel very soft to the touch, but they have slightly lower grooming needs than the wool coat Labradoodle. If you suffer from very strong allergies, you may be better suited to the wool coat Labradoodle, as long as there is someone else at home who can help you with grooming your dog every day. Labradoodle Hair Types — A Summary Though the three Labradoodle hair types are quite distinct, they can all come in a wonderful shade of Labradoodle colors. Wool and fleece coat dogs are usually better for owners that suffer from allergies. But, hair coats require less maintenance. So, choosing the right coat type for you will entirely depend on your lifestyle and needs! Which Labradoodle coat type is your favorite? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments! Readers Also Liked. Each looks and feels very different, so it is important to understand the differences between them. Australian Labradoodles are known for being non-shedding and whilst most of them are due to their wool and fleece coats, the hair-coated dogs do shed to varying degrees, just like Early Generation Labradoodles. The good news is that any experienced breeder worth their salt will be able to tell you nice and early on if any of the litter have hair coats - it is usually pretty obvious by 4 weeks old. It is also worth noting here that we do not make any guarantee that any puppy will be non-shedding. We do our best to produce non-shedding dogs and we give our honest advice and opinion on our puppies coats, but we do not have a crystal ball and nature can do funny things. No breeder can genuinely guarantee that any dog will be non-shedding. Hover over each image to find out more about each coat type. Hover over each image below to find out more about each coat type. Wool Coat The wool coat is coarse in texture and very curly. It is sprung and therefore sits up off the dog's back giving the illusion the dog is bigger. This coat is very like that of the Poodle. It is non-shedding and is generally very compatible with allergy and asthma sufferers. Curly Fleece Coat The curly fleece is soft in texture with loose curls. It is not sprung, so it tends to straighten out a little when it grows longer. This coat type is what most people think of as the typical Australian Labradoodle look. It blows in the wind or when the dog runs! Hair Coat The hair coat is quite coarse in texture and feels like typical dog hair. It is usually short and flat and will not ever grow particularly long. It does shed to varying degrees and therefore is generally not compatible with allergy and asthma sufferers, Wool Coat The wool coat is coarse in texture and very curly. It is sprung and therefore sits up off the dogs back giving the illusion the dog is bigger. Curly Fleece Coat The curly fleece coat is soft in texture with loose curls. Hair Coat The hair is quite coarse in texture and feels like typical dog hair. It does shed to varying degrees and therefore is generally not compatible with allergy and asthma sufferers. Popular Links. Also, your fleece coats, while, overall, are softer than your wool coats in texture, still have some texture variation within the fleece coat type. The Australian Labradoodle requires varying degrees of grooming depending on their coat type. A light trimming might be required with scissors but usually not. However, we do not have any hair coat in Sunset Hills, because our puppies are all multi-gen. This coat usually requires trimming once or twice a year. This coat also requires trimming about three-four times a year. All allergy and asthma friendly labradoodles have a coat change from puppy to adult usually between months of age. During their coat change, it is recommended that you groom them daily. The coat change can last anywhere from a week to several weeks. This is usually the time when owners decide that their beautiful furry doodle needs a shorter look. Note: Not all Labradoodles are Allergy and Asthma friendly. We do recommend that if you have the opportunity to meet one of these wonderful dogs in person that you should check to see if you have any reactions before you make your decision in purchasing your new puppy. We recommend that any family or person who suffers from dog related severe allergies or asthma should look into a Wool coated labradoodle as they have the highest success rate. For labradoodle sizes, please go to our Size link. For pictures and definitions of the colours of the Australian Labradoodle, please go to our Colours link. For the information on grooming, please go to our Resource link.

Prices will differ based on your region, where you shop, and the quality of the items you purchase. The breakdown of the first-year expenses of a standard poodle is given below. Vet Bills Dr. Exams, critical immunizations such as rabies, initial doses of heartworm and flea prevention, and a facial inspection will all be covered. The majority of her clients also buy heartworm and flea preventative medicine for the remainder of the year, as she advises. Insurance Enrolling your dog in a health insurance plan as a safety net against unforeseen expenditures might help you budget easily. Diet Poodles reach an adult weight of 55 pounds on average usually 40 to 70 lb. When it comes to dog food budgeting, treats cannot be overlooked. Microchip Microchips are an excellent method to identify a dog, and they are needed in many places across the United States. Microchip implants make it easy to identify and alert the owner of a lost or stolen animal. They also let canines be included in some medical and emergency databases. Regular Expenses of Standard Poodles Regardless of your financial situation, owning a Poodle is possible. The regular expenses of keeping a Standard poodle are as follows. Traveling When traveling with your dog for a lengthy period, boarding facilities are a smart alternative. To enhance your chances of finding an available location for your dog and getting the best pricing, be sure to reserve ahead of time, especially around the holidays. Dog walking As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases If you want to hire a dog walker regularly, be sure to factor this cost into your budget. If the dog has not been properly socialized, it may require more expensive private walks. Factors Affecting the Cost of Standard Poodles Pet sitters, trainers, and unexpected charges should all be factored into your budget. Although most trainers charge by the session, others offer packages to help you save money. Bloodline and reputation of the breeder The price will be significantly higher if the parents are purebred show quality dogs from a reputed breeder. These breeders also prefer to spend more money breeding dogs and puppies than others. Pedigree Some breeders belong to kennel clubs. They can also register their breeding dogs and puppies, which would increase their payments. That raises the expense, but it also lowers the chance of getting an ill dog. Age Because most people want their puppy as soon as possible, costs drop as the dog grows older. A 6-month-old puppy, for example, is likely to be less costly than an 8-week-old puppy. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. By Chris The striking Poodle needs no introduction. Even people unfamiliar with dog breeds can easily identify one. But aside from their striking good looks, Poodles have many desirable traits, like their loyalty, intelligence, and hypoallergenic coat. The typical cost of a purebred Poodle ranges from USD. Smaller Toy and Mini Poodles typically cost towards the higher range. Papered show Poodles or genetically strong breeding dogs can fetch far higher prices. A Tan Poodle sitting on an outdoor lounge. How Much Are Poodles? First things first: Poodles are expensive dogs. The reason? Poodles cost a lot to breed and maintain. A reputable breeder puts a lot of blood, sweat, and tears—and money—to ensure that their dogs are healthy and well-maintained. Where you get your Poodle also affects how much you pay for it. There are three types, which differ based on size: Standard: the largest of the three types Miniature: a medium-size Poodle Toy: the smallest of the three types A guilty looking two color Poodle Reputable Poodle Breeder Anyone who wants a purebred Poodle should find a reputable breeder. A reputable breeder is someone with a specific breeding business whose job is to produce the best dogs. As I mentioned above, the cost varies depending on the Poodle type you choose. Accidental Breeder An accidental breeder is exactly what it sounds like—someone who is not in the business of breeding but has a pregnant dog. In most cases, people who run puppy mills do not prioritize the health and safety of their pups. They have lots of dogs, usually more than they can take care of, to make the greatest profit possible. Getting a dog from a puppy mill is risky; you may get a dog with long-term health problems, a shorter life span, or genetic issues. So how do you avoid puppy mills? Online forums are an excellent place to look, especially ones specific to your area. Be sure to also check out breeder reviews. Rescue Finally, you have rescue shelters, which are excellent places to obtain a Poodle for cheap. The big downside in going this route is that finding the dog you want is a matter of luck. The main advantage of shelter dogs is the price. Additionally, most of the time, the shelter ensures that the dog already has all its shots before it goes home with you, saving you some of the healthcare costs. However, if knowing that is not important to you, you can find a fantastic dog for cheap. In addition to the initial fee to take the dog home, you should be aware of the other many Poodle costs. Some are one-time, while others are recurring. You already know that you have to feed the dog throughout its life. Choosing between a Cockapoo vs Poodle can be tricky — they are both super cute, hypoallergenic , and can be non-shedding! Vaccinations Vaccinations are essential to keep dogs healthy. Some are free, while others are not. Health Care Just as you would take a child to the pediatrician for regular checkups, you should take your Poodle to the Vet for an six monthly visit. Your vet may also advise certain medications to keep your dog healthy, like deworming meds. A super cute Poodle sitting on its owners lap Training Training is critical to ensure that your dog is well-behaved. You may feel confident training your dog yourself, but most people choose to send their Poodles to puppy school. You can start Poodle training with potty training at home. There are milestones that Poodles should meet at different ages. Grooming All dogs need to be groomed to some degree to keep their fur and skin healthy. Poodles are no exception, but if you compare them to other breeds, their grooming requirements are much higher. Depending on your preferences, your dog should visit the groomer every month or two. While this breed makes a loving and intelligent family dog , the high cost of having a Poodle—both to purchase it and to maintain it—is not for everyone. Adopting a Poodle? 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. January 20, Written by Sydney Heupel Poodles are one of the most beloved dog breeds out there, with their adorable curly fur and friendly personalities. But how much does it cost to take home a poodle? From purebred puppies to adult rescue pooches, the price of poodles can vary widely depending on breeders, age and other factors. Read on to find out all you need to know about poodle prices! The cost of a Poodle can vary greatly depending on the size, pedigree and breeder. Average Poodle Cost The average cost of a Poodle will depend on various factors such as the type of Poodle, its age and size. Prices may vary based on geographic location and quality of breeding for each individual pooch. It is important to also factor in additional costs when considering purchasing a poodle puppy. Factors Affecting Poodle Price When considering the price of a poodle, there are several factors that come into play. The most significant factor is the size and type of poodle you choose. Standard and miniature poodles cost more than toy or teacup varieties. The other major factor in setting the cost of a poodle is where it was bred and raised. Cost of Teacup, Toy, and Standard Sized Poodles The cost of poodles can vary greatly depending on their size and type. Teacup or toy poodles are particularly small, often weighing less than 4 pounds, while standard-sized poodles generally weigh between pounds. This difference in size results in a significant price discrepancy between the two types of dogs. It is important to note that aside from the purchase price itself, there will also be ongoing costs associated with owning any kind of pet such as food, veterinarian visits, grooming supplies — these are all things you should consider when budgeting how much it will cost to own an adorable puppy! Adoption vs Buying a Puppy Poodle Adoption vs Buying a Puppy Poodle is an important debate when it comes to choosing the right pet for your family. Adopting a poodle can be less expensive than buying one, but there are pros and cons to both options. Adoption is often the most cost-effective way of getting a poodle as many shelters have fixed fees or even waived adoption fees during special events. On the other hand, purchasing a puppy from a breeder means you will know exactly what type of parentage your pup has and its specific breed characteristics — this can be especially beneficial if you plan on entering your pup into shows or competitions later down the line. Some breeders also provide guarantees regarding the health of their puppies so you can rest assured knowing that if any issues arise within certain timelines then replacements might be available too. Show quality poodles require significant investment in both time and money. In addition to this initial fee, other costs should be taken into consideration including health testing fees for breeding stock such as eye exams and vet checkups prior to making any purchase decisions. Additionally, training classes may also be needed if you plan on showing your dog — often these classes are structured over an extended period of time which can add up quickly in terms of both cost and commitment. Investing in a show quality poodle is not something that should be taken lightly — with proper research and due diligence however it can be incredibly rewarding! After you initially purchase the pup, ongoing expenses are necessary to keep the dog healthy and happy throughout its life. Veterinary care is an essential cost for any pet owner and should not be overlooked when considering owning a poodle. Routine checkups, immunizations, parasite prevention treatments, medications and other veterinary services will need to be purchased from time to time in order to keep your pup safe and healthy. Food is another major expense when it comes to owning a poodle. Quality food should be provided in order for them to have proper nutrition throughout their life. Grooming costs must also be factored into the overall price of ownership as well since regular brushing, bathing and trimming of nails is required for this breed in particular due its long locks of fur which tend to tangle easily if not treated properly on occasion. .Professional grooming services might come with some additional fees but they offer convenience since all tasks are usually completed during one appointment instead of having multiple visits per session like what would happen doing it yourself or hiring someone privately on an hourly basis outside of these shops specialized in caring for these furry pals specifically. Before taking the plunge, one of my main concerns was the cost. So, after doing some research, I came up with several ways that I could save money on the cost of a poodle. The first thing I did was look into adoption centers in my area. Plus, adopting an animal not only helps you save money but also saves lives! Next, I talked to friends and family who already owned poodles or similar breeds. They were able to provide me with valuable advice on things like food type, veterinary care tips and even grooming requirements — all without costing me anything extra! Finally and perhaps most importantly , before making any big purchases for my new pup food bowls or toys… , I shopped around online for discounts or sales. This way, instead of paying full price at the pet store down the street, I saved quite a bit by looking around different stores and websites until finding just what we needed at an unbeatable deal. In conclusion, there are lots of easy ways to save money on the cost of owning a poodle if you know where to look and who to talk too. By following these simple steps myself and researching beforehand ,I found that not only did having one fit within our budget but ultimately enabled us both more quality time together as well! Related posts:. If you want to get a show dog from champion bloodlines, expect to spend more. Purchasing the purebred Miniature or Toy type of Poodle is pricier than buying other dog breeds from a backyard dog breeder. The Standard Poodles are typically less expensive than Toy Poodles since they deliver more purebred puppies per litter. The price of a Standard Poodle, as well as Miniature and Toy Poodles, does not often change between male and female dogs, but larger dogs are associated with a higher maintenance cost compared to smaller Poodles. A premium price tag also usually means you have a high-quality Poodle puppy from purebred breeders which could save you a lot of money in the long run. Female Poodle: Which Is Better? Factors Affecting the Cost of a Poodle Puppy Many people find Poodles expensive, but what is it about Poodles that makes them so costly? Well, there are many reasons why these fluffy dogs cost thousands of dollars. The size, age, health, lineage, and AKC registration of a Poodle puppy are essential considerations when determining puppy prices. Here are other factors affecting the price of a purebred Poodle: Age: Younger purebred Poodle puppies are far more costly than older puppies on average. This is due to the high demand for young pups. Meanwhile, purchasing an adult Poodle could save you at the very least a few hundred dollars. Appearance: Purebred Poodles that sport rare Poodles coats color are priced higher than others. Purebred Poodle breeders dedicate years to learning how to breed high-quality puppies. Those that gained recognition for their hard work often put higher price tags on their Poodles than others. Bloodline: Since they are bred for exhibition, champion Poodles will be the priciest. These are the canines that compete in athletics and breed representation. Health Screenings: Purebred Poodles are at risk of health issues, such as seizures. This means Poodle breeders must take measures to ensure the health of their pups. As a result, they will have to invest additional money to nurture proper Poodle health. Registration Papers: Your Poodle must have the required registration papers to be registered with a kennel club. This list contains the significant factors that influence the price of a Poodle. When purchasing a Standard Poodle puppy, keep them in mind and any additional fees that may be associated with it. A purebred backyard breeder might ask you for things like reservation charges, pet delivery, vaccines, and pup accessories that are not included in the Standard Poodle price range. Poodle costs of adoption will vary depending on where you get your dog. If you choose a senior or special needs adult Standard Poodle, the fee is significantly reduced or even free entirely in these cases. Poodle puppies can be found in abundance in local shelters. If you decide to adopt a Poodle, you can be assured that you will get a dog that has been well-cared for, unlike the ones found in a puppy mill. Here is the list of the essential things that people who love Poodles must prepare for: Food and Treats: Poodles can be picky eaters. Hence, it is important to invest in the right kind of high-quality food upfront. Poodles will need a diet high in fats and proteins. Bed: Because the Poodles are active dogs, it will require a nice bed. The size of your Poodle will determine which mattress is appropriate. Crate: A crate is a must-have for required vet visits or crate-training your Poodle properly. This is a must-have item for Poodles that enjoy running and playing. Toys: Teething is unavoidable for young pups, and restlessness can lead to destructive behavior. These toys are a great approach to alleviating these concerns while keeping your dog happy. A slick brush to clear unkempt hair and knots, a metallic greyhound comb to remove tangles and separate hair strands, a blow dryer, grooming clippers, nail clippers, and a toothbrush to maintain proper oral hygiene are all you need. Furthermore, deworming is a crucial step in keeping healthy pups. Initial Vaccine Shots: If you opt to purchase an unvaccinated Poodle puppy, you will be responsible for the expense of their first round of vaccinations. This is also another way of keeping your Poodle healthy. Neutering and Spaying: If you purchase Standard Poodle puppies, most likely, it is still intact. It is suggested that the puppy be spayed or neutered between six and nine months. Microchip: A microchip, about the size of a rice grain, should be implanted on your Poodle. This can be scanned by vets or other canine specialists for your contact info, health records, and health problems. Miscellaneous Supplies: Useful goods such as poop scoopers, cleaning materials, and urine pads could make Poodle care much more manageable. Other sources of entertainment for your dog may include activities, such as agility. You can also purchase items to create brain games for your dog, like puzzles and Kong toys. Different diets, toys, supplies, and groomers all can vary significantly in cost. Additional Costs to Factor In Other costs you should be prepared for include pet sitters, trainers, and emergency expenses. Trainers usually charge by the session, but some offer packages to help limit expense. Setting money aside every month for any emergency or unexpected expenses will help you be prepared if anything comes up. You can also rotate through toys and supplies to keep things interesting and prevent items from wearing out quickly. Even on a budget, you should plan for the monthly expenses associated with food and medical care. These are expenses that cannot be skipped, regardless of budget. Coming up with creative ways to budget and stretch the use of items longer can go a long way in helping you to save money. Image Credit: susanne, Pixabay Saving Money on Poodle Care You can save money on a professional groomer if you take time to brush your dog well every day to ensure they are not getting mats and to monitor their skin health. You can also save money on grooming expenses if you are comfortable shaving or grooming your Poodle yourself. Another great way to save money on the care and maintenance of your Poodle is to watch online and brick-and-mortar shops for sales and coupons. These can be used to save a significant amount on foods, toys, treats, cleaning supplies, grooming supplies, and more. Conclusion: Poodle Price Owning a Poodle can be attainable, regardless of your budget. Poodles of all sizes and types are fantastic dogs with fun personalities. They are not low-maintenance dogs, though. This means you may experience higher costs associated with grooming and basic care than you would with a lower-maintenance dog. Set aside money every month as a backup option in case unexpected expenses arise or you find yourself in an emergency situation. Rescue Generally, adoption fees will always cost less than buying a dog from a breeder. If you prefer not to spend a lot of money upfront, getting a Poodle from a Poodle rescue organization might appeal to you. A small adoption fee means you can put that money towards initial veterinary care. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! Buying a dog from a breeder may help you prepare for potential health issues. Dogs that come from breeders also tend to have a more predictable temperament. The Up-Front Costs of a New Poodle Aside from emergencies, the initial costs of bringing a new poodle into your home will always be the highest. The first expense will be the price of your new puppy or dog. The price of a puppy can vary greatly depending on where you get your new Poodle and what kind of Poodle you get. The typical route of getting a Poodle is to buy a puppy from a reputable breeder. Because of the rich history of Poodles, breeders have taken care to manage bloodlines and ensure that quality animals come from each generation. When you buy from a good breeder, you usually receive certifications and health histories for your animal. Your single Standard Poodle puppy costs less than a Miniature or Toy Poodle partly because they produce more puppies per year. Additionally, larger breeds are in less demand than small and Toy breeds. As a more affordable and convenient breed in the long term, some would rather pay more upfront. The popularity of Miniature Poodles makes for a higher price. Toy Poodles These little cuties come in as the most expensive type of Poodle. Irresistible in appearance and unmatched in temperament, Toy Poodles are the most desired of Poodle breeds. Their small size comes with careful, specific breeding to reduce disease and enhance desirable traits. There are several benefits to having such a tiny dog, from the cost of food to ease of travel. Finally, Toy Poodles have a lower yearly birth rate than their larger Poodle counterparts. Therefore, each puppy is all the more precious for this reason. A brown Poodle actually enjoying a Vet visit Initial Veterinary Costs of Getting a Poodle Veterinary costs will vary depending on the age of your new Poodle and whether you get it from a breeder versus a rescue organization. However, any dog can encounter health issues at any time in its life. Although these veterinary costs are estimates for healthy animals, emergencies can run in the tens of thousands. Is Puppy Care More Expensive? Puppies cost more than an already grown Poodle. Puppies also need vaccinations in their first year that can add up but are a critical part of care. Young Veterinarian doctor listens to the heart beat of a happy gray Poodle Pet Insurance and Preventative Care An additional medical cost to consider is insurance to protect yourself financially. Some pet insurance companies also cover routine veterinary care. Too often have I heard of unprepared people getting slammed with a massive veterinary bill. On top of the stress of an emergency vet visit, a cost can cause even more anxiety.

In recent years, French Bulldogs, with their distinctive bat ears and adorable smooshed faces, have become a favorite breed among dog lovers globally. Just how popular? As Frenchies get more popular, so do their scammers However, as Frenchies soar in popularity, a darker trend emerges… The rising incidence of French Bulldog breeder scams. Everybody wants a Frenchie. A ton of people want to breed Frenchies. While you might save a few bucks on the puppy, it may lead to hefty vet bills down the line or, worse, heartache over a sickly pup. Sign 2: Lack of Health History Transparency A reputable breeder will always provide comprehensive health history for their dogs. Red flags to look for Unwillingness to share health records: Reputable breeders perform health tests and veterinary checks for their dogs and are happy to share these records. If a breeder is hesitant or refuses to show you these documents, be cautious. It might indicate the breeder is not honest or possibly trying to cover up health issues. A reputable breeder will educate potential buyers about these issues. If you encounter a breeder unwilling to share these details or offering suspiciously vague or inconsistent information, beware! Scammers, however, might show forged papers or offer none at all. Always verify these documents with the relevant dog breed registry to ensure their authenticity. Red flags to look for Absence of registration papers: If the breeder cannot produce any registration papers, it could be a sign they are not a reputable breeder or the dog is not a purebred French Bulldog. Forgery or alteration of documents: Some scammers might go as far as to forge registration documents. Look for signs of alteration or discrepancies in the documents. If in doubt, cross-verify with the issuing authority. Rushing the payment process: If the breeder is rushing you to make a deposit or pay in full without giving you enough time to consider, it might be a scam. Avoiding questions or concerns: A reputable breeder welcomes questions and understands that potential buyers may have concerns. You should always have enough time to research the breeder and make an informed choice. Slow down! Sign 5: Use of Emotional Manipulation or Sob Stories Scammers often resort to emotional manipulation or sob stories to rush a sale. Keep an eye out for these red flags: Red flags to look for Sob stories: If the breeder frequently shares stories designed to tug at your heartstrings e. While these situations can happen, they should not be used as a tool to pressure you into making a hasty decision. Creating a sense of guilt: If the breeder attempts to guilt-trip you into buying a puppy by suggesting the puppy might end up in a shelter or in a bad situation without your help, be wary. A reputable breeder has a network of fellow breeders and previous customers that they can rely on if they genuinely need help with rehoming a dog. Rushing the sale due to personal issues: If the breeder pushes for a quick sale due to personal issues like financial troubles or health problems, proceed with caution. Although these can be legitimate reasons, they may also be fabricated to create a sense of urgency. Sign 6: Poor Communication or Reluctance to Provide Information Communication is key in any transaction, and buying a puppy is no different. Reputable breeders are not only good at breeding puppies, but they also know how to run a business. Red flags to look for Delay in responses: While breeders may be busy, they should still prioritize communication with potential buyers. Avoiding direct answers: A reputable breeder should be able to answer your questions confidently and directly. Unwillingness to provide pictures or videos: A genuine breeder would be more than happy to share pictures or videos of the puppy, its siblings, and its parents. If a breeder refuses to provide these or only shares professional or suspiciously perfect photos, they might not be legitimate. Be wary of breeders who avoid answering your questions or are reluctant to provide detailed information about their dogs. A genuine breeder will always welcome your curiosity and inquiries. Sign 7: Absence of Verifiable References or Testimonials Check for testimonials or references from previous buyers. Reviews can easily be faked. You should try to get in contact with some of these people that have left the reviews if possible. Reluctance to connect you with previous customers: If a breeder refuses to connect you with previous buyers for feedback, it may be cause for concern. Genuine, verifiable feedback from satisfied customers is a solid indicator of a trustworthy breeder. Sign 8: Unusual Payment Methods and Requests Unconventional payment methods, like wire transfers or pre-paid debit cards, are a big red flag. Or they might pressure you to send a deposit through Zelle, Venmo, CashApp, etc. Reputable breeders will typically accept safer payment methods, like credit cards or secure online payments. Red flags to look for Requests for non-secure payment methods: If a breeder insists on payments through wire transfers, pre-paid debit cards, or gift cards, tread carefully. These methods are often untraceable and non-refundable. Be careful! Sign 9: Nonexistent or Suspicious Breeding Facility A quality breeding facility is vital for the health and well-being of the pups. Be cautious if you spot any of these red flags: Red flags to look for Refusal to show the breeding facility: A reputable breeder will be proud to show where their dogs are bred and raised. If a breeder refuses to show you the facility, it could be a scam. Poor conditions in the facility: If you do get a chance to visit or see images of the facility and the conditions seem poor or inadequate, this is a major concern. If a breeder refuses to show their facility, or if the place seems inadequate or suspicious, it might be best to steer clear. Look for a breeder with a facility that would make any puppy happy to be there. Sign Inconsistent or Incomplete Information about the Breed A genuine French Bulldog breeder will have an in-depth knowledge of the breed. If you spot gaps in their knowledge, this could be a sign of a scammer or an inexperienced breeder which is far from ideal. Your breeder should know a thing or two about Frenchies… Sign Refusal to Allow In-Person Visits or Video Calls Reputable breeders will typically allow in-person visits or video calls to meet the puppies and their parents. Scammers, however, may be reluctant or outright refuse. Seeing the puppy and its living conditions before purchasing is crucial. Sign No Screening of Potential Buyers Good breeders will want to ensure their puppies are going to a good home and will typically ask potential buyers several questions. No discussion about breed suitability: Reputable breeders will discuss whether a French Bulldog is a suitable breed for your lifestyle. Look out for this warning sign: Red flags to look for Always has puppies available: If a breeder always seems to have a new litter available or multiple litters at once, this could indicate a puppy mill, which is a type of inhumane, commercial dog breeding facility. Remember to always do thorough research and trust your instincts when choosing a breeder. Look out for these 13 signs of a Frenchie Breeder Scammer Unusually low prices Lack of health history transparency Unverified or non-existent registration papers Pressure to make hasty decisions Use of emotional manipulation or sob stories Poor communication Absence of verifiable references or testimonials Unusual payment methods A suspicious or nonexistent breeding facility Incomplete knowledge about the breed Refusal to allow in-person visits or video calls No screening of potential buyers Puppies available for immediate sale By being vigilant and conducting thorough research, you can significantly reduce your risk of falling prey to such scams. Remember: responsible dog ownership starts with the decision of where and whom to buy from. Stay informed, be cautious, and ensure your French Bulldog comes from a loving, responsible breeder who cares about their dogs as much as you will care for your new Frenchie. You can ask for contact information to personally speak with previous customers. Additionally, use online resources to look for reviews and comments about the breeder. Should I pay a deposit before meeting the puppy? Be sure to get a written agreement detailing what the deposit covers and under what conditions it is refundable. Report the situation to your local law enforcement and contact your bank or payment service to dispute the charges, if possible. You can also report the breeder to local and national pet organizations. They can provide guidance and potentially pursue legal action. Online Platforms: If you found the breeder on a website or app, report the scam to the platform. Want to learn how to find a reputable breeder? Learn more about what to look for in a French Bulldog breeder, as well questions to ask your breeder, and more! Quite a few potential health problems due to his deformed face High cost A French Bulldog may not be right for you. Keep in mind that the inheritance of temperament is less predictable than the inheritance of physical traits such as size or shedding. Temperament and behavior are also shaped by raising and training. With an adult dog, you can easily see what you're getting, and plenty of adult French Bulldogs have already proven themselves not to have negative characteristics. If you want a puppy, you can avoid some negative traits by choosing the right breeder and the right puppy. Unfortunately, you usually can't tell whether a puppy has inherited temperament or health problems until he grows up. Health problems. Unfortunately, these nice-tempered dogs are deliberately bred with structural deformities that detract from the dog's quality of life. They especially have trouble breathing. You need to protect them from heatstroke and if your summers get hot, your home needs to be air-conditioned. Along with respiratory disorders, Frenchies also suffer from spinal disorders, eye diseases, heart disease, and joint diseases. Read more about French Bulldog Health. French Bulldog sounds. Because of their short face, most Frenchies snort, snuffle, wheeze, grunt, and snore loudly. These sounds are endearing to some people; nerve-wracking to others. Some French Bulldogs, especially those with heavy loose lips, slobber water when they drink. Some drool, too, especially after eating and drinking. Gassiness flatulence. All short-faced breeds gulp air when they eat, and that air has to go somewhere, after all. However, commercial diets make flatulence worse by including fibrous or hard-to-digest ingredients. French Bulldogs who are fed a homemade diet of real meat and vegetables have much less trouble with gassiness. For such a small dog, French Bulldogs can be quite stubborn and manipulative. You must show them, through absolute consistency, that you mean what you say. Food is a great motivator for this breed, but it often results in a fat Frenchie who only obeys if you're waving a cookie. I recommend a more sensible training method. French Bulldogs can be quite slow to housebreak. Expect four to six months of consistent crate training. An expert researcher and author of 15 books about dogs, she loves helping people choose, train, and care for their dogs. To help you train and care for your dog Dog training videos. Sometimes it's easier to train your puppy or adult dog when you can see the correct training techniques in action. The problem is that most dog training videos on the internet are worthless, because they use the wrong training method. I recommend these dog training videos that are based on respect and leadership. Respect Training For Puppies: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved puppy. For puppies 2 to 18 months old. Your puppy will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. If your dog is over 18 months, you'll want Respect Training For Adult Dogs: 30 seconds to a calm, polite, well-behaved dog. Again your dog will learn the 21 skills that all family dogs need to know. Teach Your Dog English Words is a unique Vocabulary and Respect Training Program that will teach your adult dog to listen to you and do what you say. Related posts you might enjoy.