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We breed to the world standard and concentrate on the working ability and structure of the the German Shepherd breed. Our trained driver can transport your German Shepherd to our kennels for puppy purchases, dog training or dog boarding. Trust that your German Shepherd will be transported with care: our driver is knowledgeable about the breed, trained in dog handling and transport, and our transporting service is bonded and insured. This service is exclusive to Nadelhaus purchased German Shepherds. We do not transport dogs that were not purchased or imported through Nadelhaus. Pricing below are estimates only. Our transportation services are generally limited to Northern California, but we encourage you to contact us with any inquiries for your location or for a price quote. Join and learn directly from Nadelhaus founder Traci Needles, who has over 25 years of experience breeding and training German Shepherds. Over 50 videos on the following topics covering German Shepherd puppies, housebreaking, crate training, obedience, feeding, grooming, wellness, and much more. New videos are added every month. We couldn't be happier with our Nadelhaus Shepherd. Traci picked the perfect dog for my family. Great disposition, physically healthy, and structurally put together like a true German Shepherd quality dog should be. Can't say enough about the ongoing support from Nadelhaus. Love you Traci! Her temperament and size is perfect! We have had other German Shepherds in past but I honestly have to say she is a miracle!! Sweetest German Shepherd ever!! Our little Leo is a delight. He slept all the way home in the car, is loving doing his business in the garden already! Last night was a little rough for us. We all slept but you know how that goes. Leo will learn and we will all adjust. We'll be in touch when we have questions, but just wanted to thank you again. We continue to use Traci for boarding and training. She is an invaluable source. He is absolutely one of the most beautiful things I have seen in my life. In addition to being absolutely gorgeous, he has amazing temperament and is a hit with kids and adults. He is our own nanny dog! We are so glad we went with Nadelhaus, and will definitely go back to Traci for our next pup. We are in love with the breed and the amazing Nadelhaus pups! We are a two-hour drive from the North Bay and nearly a 3-hour drive from San Francisco. Our customers come from all over including Sacramento, the Central Valley, the Bay Area, Southern California, and even from out of state. Not only do we breed German Shepherd puppies, we offer puppy and dog training , dog boarding , and can import fully-trained German Shepherds. What is the price to buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy? Our Puppy Application page will provide you with more information on the application, deposit, and matching process. Once you have read through these steps, you can click through to the application form and view the prices for both Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppies as well as import German Shepherd puppies. If I buy a Nadelhaus German Shepherd puppy, can you ship it to me? If you are not able to pick your puppy up from our facility in Northern California, we can ship a puppy to you. Shipping rates vary by location and include a health certificate vet visit, transportation costs, and an airline approved crate. Contact us for shipping details. Will my puppy have its shots and vaccines? Puppies need a series of vaccinations throughout their first year of life. All of our puppies receive their vaccinations and are de-wormed to the date of pick-up. They are vet checked at six weeks old. Once a puppy is picked up from Nadelhaus, new owners will need to schedule remaining shots for their puppy with their local veterinarian. Will my puppy be micro-chipped? Visit akcreunite. Can I have a German Shepherd puppy imported from Europe? Puppies bred at Nadelhaus sell quick and even with a deposit, there is generally a wait list for our puppies. If you are interested in skipping the wait list, consider having a puppy imported from Germany. Importing a German Shepherd puppy is a special opportunity to acquire a very beautiful dog with special bloodlines. Both the female mother and male stud are often top V and VA dogs in Germany and come from very popular and highly sought after bloodlines. If you are interested in importing a puppy, simply fill out the same puppy application and click the checkbox that you would like to import a puppy. I am a 7 month old, 20lb, spayed German Shepherd mix that is looking for my forever family. I would do best in a quiet, active home with adults only or older, calm teenagers. I do a good sit for yummy food but still need work on my manners and other training. I am expected to weigh about 70lbs once I am fully grown. If I sound like the dog for you then please inquire with the adoptions staff for more information. Please make sure to include in the application that you are interested in meeting me. Please call for assistance. Please note at this time we are doing adoptions by appointments only. Please call us at to schedule an appointment. Our hours are weekdays from 11am-6pm and weekends from 11am-5pm closed major holidays. Interested adopters must arrive at least 1 hour before close. To check on an animal's adoption status, please call during normal business hours to speak with an adoption counselor. Emails will be returned as soon as possible, but please allow up to 48 hours during busy adoption periods like weekends. September 14, , pm. Questions about German Shepherd puppies for sale in San Francisco? We have answers. How much do your German Shepherd puppies for sale in San Francisco cost? The price of German Shepherd puppies is affected by numerous factors, and even similar-looking dogs and breeders could have different prices. For example, breeder experience, coat color, dog pedigree and more. We understand that price is often an important factor when choosing a dog, which is why there are so many affordable options in our network. Our goal is to connect families with the best dogs possible. Breeders and businesses in the UP network can arrange travel for your pup to your nearest major airport. How do you vet San Francisco German Shepherd breeders? All of the German Shepherd breeders and companies we partner with follow our tough, binding Breeder Pledge—and we never work with puppy mills or unethical breeders. We believe that Uptown Puppies is the best, most fun way to find your perfect puppy. Sadly, that means there are also tons of unethical breeders out there looking to cash in on the industry. Our network is big, and growing. MatchMaker is awesome. Are you next? Just take a peek at some of our recent puppy alumni to see what our system looks like in action!

Frontline for Puppies — 3 pack 8 weeks and older, 23 — 44lbs Like Advantix, I still get fleas on my dog with Frontline. That said, I will continue using it as it does help. You need a prescription to get this and it is very expensive. You may not need to go through such great lengths if you live in a suburban area. Most people use this as an alternative to Advantix or Frontline; I use it in addition to those topical treatments. Treating the Yard Treating the yard is just as important as treating the inside of your house and your dog. The products below WILL kill the fleas in your yard. If you do not kill the fleas in your yard, they WILL get back on the dog, even if you have an indoor dog that only goes outside to go potty. The fleas will be waiting in the grass and will leap right onto their fur. There could be better products, but i have been using these two for years now and they keep fleas and ticks off of my yard. They are literally a lifesaver. Conquer Insecticide This bottle on Amazon will last you a few years. Now we are getting to the good stuff. I use this to treat the yard. Be sure to keep humans and pets off of the area you treat for a good 24 hours. Read the instructions very carefully and follow them precisely. Failure to do so is literally a federal crime I think. A friend came down with Rocky Mountain Spotted Fever as well. I quit screwing around and went with the chemicals. This was honestly a very last resort for me. Last spring I sprayed my yard with this in combination with Archer IGR below and it lasted the entire year. I repeat: This is one of those cases where you DO need to follow instructions. This is used in combination with Conquer above. What is an IGR, you ask? IGRs prevent an insect from reaching maturity. This helps with infestations because immature insects cannot reproduce. Be sure to read the instructions on this thoroughly. This is heavy duty stuff and if you use it wrong you will regret it. When used with Conquer, insects will die and not come back for many many months. To crid your home of fleas you will need to vacuum along every corner of your home; this means getting where the floor meets the wall underneath the couch. Clean under the couch cushions. Wash all couches and animal bedding. Make sure they do not escape your vacuum cleaner when you empty it. Then spray everything with insecticide or a good IGR to get rid of the flea eggs and larvae. The worse part about having fleas is killing them all and removing them all and then 2 or 3 weeks later a fresh batch hatches and is starving for blood. Here are the products you will need to kill all of the fleas in your home. This premise spray is a water based aerosol spray will kills adult fleas, fire ants, Argentine ants, Carpenter ants, roaches, crickets, bed bugs, spiders, spiders, ticks and many more types of insects. It is safe for cats and furniture and any area infested with fleas. The Insect Growth Regulator IGR ingredient will provide days of protection against flea larvae and prevent them from growing up and becoming adult biting fleas. Precor also has four weeks of residual protection. The 21oz can is made for degrees spraying — spray upside down or upright. It covers 2, square feet. But, do use the product carefully and do follow the instructions properly. Cypermethrin is the active ingredient here and people on Amazon say they use this to kill everything from red ants to scorpions. You can use the above IGR in your home, but I am personally afraid to. That said, Tekko works and is really high tech stuff, and the only IGR out there with two ingredients to kill flea babies: Pyriproxyfen is a juvenile hormone analog, while novaluron is a novel chitin synthesis inhibitor. An IGR in combination with an insecticide works wonders. Understanding the flea life cycle You are at war with the fleas and you must know your enemy. The biggest mistake people make is killing their fleas. You have fleas, you want them dead, you kill them. Easy enough, right? You have to kill them, kill their kids, and render their eggs useless, treat their environment, and make sure they do not come back. Flea eggs. An adult flea mommy can lay 40 freaking flea eggs every day. She lays them in batches of .The eggs are tiny, white, and smaller than a grain of sand. Most people think that flea eggs hatch in 3 weeks. This is false. Flea eggs can hatch in as little as 14 days, or take months to hatch. The amount of time a flea egg needs to hatch depends on a wide variety of environmental factors including temperature and humidity. Flea larvae. Larvae are legless and blind creatures which eat stuff mom left behind for them such as predigested blood and eventually make a cocoon for themselves. Flea Pupae. Got pupae on your puppy? Fleas are pupae when they reside in their sticky cocoons. These cocoons stick to carpet fibers and furniture. Fleas can sit in their cocoons while you are on vacation, then when they detect a nearby food source, the pop out of their cocoons as hungry young adults. Adult fleas. These are fleas. They start off looking kind of flat and dark. They must eat shortly after hatching. After getting some blood they look more like a flea. They can hang out on your dog for weeks or months. The female fleas are laying eggs just a few days after eating. Ctenocephalides canis : adult, pupa, egg and larvae. How to tell if dog has fleas If a flea jumps on you or bites you, your home already has fleas, and your dog most definitely has fleas. I also like to inspect the belly and armpits of my Shepherd on a regular basis. I am well aware of what her skin looks like, and if I see any black specs I know she has fleas. Excessive scratching and biting is a sure sign of fleas, too: German Shepherd biting at fleas. Health problems associated with fleas If you do not get the fleas off of your German Shepherd quickly they will almost definitely get an infection from scratching and biting at themselves. This will first present itself as a painful hot spot and likely turn into a bacterial skin infection. Dogs swallowing fles are also prone to getting tapeworm. Basically, fleas leave behind saliva in their bites, and dogs can develop a severe flea allergy. Topicals and internal medications are ok for preventative measures once your flea problems are solved. You must eradicate fleas from your yard. You must terminate and remove the fleas from your home. Questions, concerns? Please feel free to comment below. I would love to know if you found this flea removal guide useful. It should be good for almost any breed of dog out there. And the longer a flea infestation is left untreated, the worse it will get. That said, German Shepherds have thick coats so a flea infestation can be hidden until it becomes serious. Treating flea infestations is important. This can lead to infections on the skin and internally. Tapeworms: fleas host tapeworms and as your dog chews, they will likely end up swallowing a few fleas that host tapeworms. You should be checking your pup regularly for fleas, especially if it likes to play outdoors. Use the following 3 stages as a rough guide to figuring out how bad the problem is and what kind of treatments you should be using: Stage 1 This is the early stage. They reproduce and populate quickly. Shampoos and gentle sprays can probably handle it. You can nip this in the bud by using a stronger medication or treatment and practicing the preventative measures discussed at the end of this article. Stage 3 This is the most advanced stage. Fleas are everywhere. Your German Shepherd is probably losing fur and in a lot of distress. At this point, you need the strongest treatments possible. We recommend getting store bought products rather than using home remedies or using those products in combination with home remedies. Fleas and mosquitoes, actually are repelled by the strong, acidic citrus odor. And your dog will smell lemon fresh! Bath: a refreshing swim in the pool or in the bathtub is a great defense. Submerge the dog fully. This can help minimize the risk of repeated infestations. Like citrus, this essential oil repels fleas and ticks. Since fleas are jumpers, they tend to get into carpeting and upholstery where they lie in wait for a victim. So we highly recommend this product but we recommend using it in combination with a medication that you give to your dog or a flea shampoo. Read more about those below. It works on cats and dogs. It kills fleas at every stage of their life cycle egg, larvae, adult. It also kills ticks and repels mosquitoes. Basically, if there are critters trying to bite your pets, this spray has you covered. It is fast acting for immediate relief from the itchy flea bites. You just spray your pets fur. Also, the recommended dose is pretty high. This is especially true for your younger puppies. Use less than recommended for young or small pets. The pack comes with 6 tablets and each one is highly effective. We recommend using the full course of treatment to make sure you totally eliminate the problem. The biggest drawback here is that it does come in tablet form which means you need to get your dog to swallow the medicine. You can do this by wrapping it in a piece of meat or another treat. But this can still be a struggle with stubborn dogs. So if your dog is stubborn about taking medicine, try the treatment option below which is applied directly to the fur. However, if you know your dog can take pills, this is a highly effective treatment that is safe enough for smaller pups so you can give it to your German Shepherd puppy. In just 3 doses, it can effectively eliminate an infestation. It kills flea eggs, fleas, and even ticks. A word of caution: this should not be used on young puppies and smaller dogs. So if your German Shepherd is younger than 8 weeks, you should use something gentler. However, for dogs 8 weeks and up and weighing at least 45 pounds , this is a highly effective and thorough treatment that is easy to apply and acts fast. Preventing Future Outbreaks The best way to deal with fleas is to stop them before they are a problem. Here are some tips for minimizing the risk of a flea infestation on your German Shepherd and in your home: Groom your yard: a mowed and trimmed yard makes your house more appealing to humans and less appealing to fleas and ticks who like overgrown plants where they can hide. You should also keep pet food bowls inside to prevent strays and wild animals from coming into your yard and leaving their fleas behind. Just as they like overgrown plants, they also like tangled, dirty fur where they can hide undisturbed. The thick coats of German Shepherds are especially attractive real estate for fleas if not groomed regularly. Consider shaving or at least shortening their coat during the summer months to keep them cool and make it easier to spot early signs of fleas. Vacuum: vacuum carpeting and upholstery at least once a week to pull out any eggs or larvae nesting in the fibers and waiting to pounce on your pup. If you currently have a flea problem, vacuum daily. And in either case, make sure you get into corners and along the edges where fleas will congregate to avoid high traffic areas. This will keep both you and your German Shepherd happy. Last Updated on October 18, by Post navigation. It is good for large breeds. It acts fast, is water-proof, and is long-lasting for the dog. It is also a preventive treatment because it kills flea and tick eggs. It is great at killing adult flea and ticks. It is a 3 dose supply that lasts for three months. The frontline treatment has been recognized and used by veterinarians as the best for large breeds. If you are trying to prevent Lyme disease from ticks, this treatment kills ticks that cause that disease. Pros It cures and prevents Lyme disease It is active for 30 days Made from strong but safe ingredients It comes in 3 doses It is good for large breeds Cons 2. It kills ticks, fleas, flea eggs, tick eggs, and chewing lice. If you live in an area where there are mosquitos, this treatment repels mosquitos for up to 30 days. It works within 24 hours giving professional treatment. Maybe you want your dog to stop itching from bites and flea infestation. This treatment repels against flea eggs and kills flea and ticks on contact. Your dog does not have to suffer long. The treatment prevents Lyme disease caused by ticks. It breaks the flea cycle, leaving your dog happier and comfortable. Pros It is good for extra-large dogs Kills ticks and fleas immediately Prevents Lyme disease It breaks the flea cycle It works within 24 hours Cons. Size: For dogs that are 8 weeks and older Item form: Spray This product helps to kill fleas, ticks, and chewing lice that provide relief for your pet and prevent future infestations. It is designed to kill brown dog ticks, American dog ticks, lone star ticks, and deer ticks in all life stages. This product has two tough ingredients, Fipronil and S -methoprene that kills adult fleas and ticks that come into contact with your pet, and works to kill flea eggs and larvae before they can develop. German Shepherds are susceptible to tick and flea infestations that quickly become a problem if not treated early. There are several effective tick and flea treatments available for German Shepherds. Some common options include topical treatments, oral medications, and baths with flea shampoo. What do veterinarians recommend for dog fleas? Spot-on treatments work by killing fleas and preventing them from laying eggs, and they provide long-lasting protection against fleas. This type of treatment is effective in killing fleas and preventing them from returning. It is also safe for dogs of all ages and can be used on puppies as young as eight weeks old. What is the safest flea and tick treatment for dogs? A safe and effective flea treatment has natural ingredients like essential oils or plant-based extracts. When used as directed, they can effectively repel fleas and ticks, keeping your dog happy and healthy. How do I know if my German Shepherd has fleas? If you think your German shepherd has fleas, there are a few things you can look for. You can also look for flea eggs, which are small and white. If you see either of these things, your dog likely has fleas. Another sign of fleas is excessive scratching or biting. Can fleas and ticks cause death to dogs? While they are primarily a nuisance, fleas and ticks can also transmit diseases that can be harmful, or even deadly to dogs. Fleas can carry several diseases, including tapeworms, anemia, and bartonellosis. Ticks, on the other hand, are known to transmit Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis. In severe cases, these diseases can lead to death. As such, dog owners need to take measures to prevent their pets from becoming infested with fleas and ticks. Conclusion A flea infestation can be frustrating for both dogs and their owners. They can cause some serious health problems for your pets and make their life miserable in the process if it remains untreated. While fleas and ticks can be a common problem, there are many ways to get rid of them. From topical treatments to oral medications, there is an option out there for every budget. Remember, there is no one perfect solution for every dog, so find the treatment that works best for your dog and stick with it. Beagles Basset Hounds If you have one of these breeds of dogs, it's important to be extra vigilant about keeping them free of fleas and ticks. The good news is that there are a number of effective flea and tick medicines available on the market today. How do I remove a tick from my dog? If you find a tick on your dog, it's important to remove it as quickly as possible. The best way to do this is to use a pair of tweezers. Grab the tick by the head and pull it straight out. Avoid crushing the body of the tick, as this can cause its infected fluids to enter your dog's bloodstream. Once the tick is removed, clean the area with a disinfectant. Can my dog get sick from flea and tick bites? Yes, dogs can definitely get sick from flea and tick bites. These pests can transmit a number of serious diseases to your dog, including Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and ehrlichiosis. That's why it's so important to keep your dog on a regular flea and tick prevention program. The best way to do this is to talk to your veterinarian and find out which prevention method is best for your dog. Do I need a prescription from my vet to get the best flea and tick medicines for dogs in ? No, you do not need a prescription from your vet to get the best flea and tick medicines for dogs in .However, it is always a good idea to consult with your vet before using any new products on your dog. This is especially important if your dog has any medical conditions. Your vet will be able to tell you if a particular product is safe for your dog. What are the side effects of flea and tick medicines for dogs? The side effects of flea and tick medicines for dogs vary depending on the product. Some products may cause mild side effects, such as skin irritation. Others may cause more serious side effects, such as seizures or liver damage. It is important to read the label of any product you are considering using. This will help you to understand the potential side effects. You should also consult with your vet before using any new products on your dog. Are there ways to deter fleas from getting into my yard? Yes, there are a few things you can do to help keep fleas out of your yard. First, make sure to keep your grass trimmed short. Fleas thrive in tall grass and weeds, so keeping your lawn trimmed will help reduce their population. Secondly, consider using a flea bomb or granules in your yard to kill any fleas that may be present. You can also treat your pet with a monthly flea preventative to help reduce the risk of them bringing fleas into your yard. Finally, make sure to clean up any areas where your pet spends time outside. This includes sweeping porches and decks, and removing any debris or standing water from around your home. By taking these precautions, you can help keep fleas out of your yard and away from your pet. What are some natural ways to get rid of fleas? There are a few natural methods you can try to get rid of fleas. First, vacuum your floors and furniture regularly to remove any eggs or larvae that may be present. Secondly, wash your bedding and pet's bedding in hot water to kill any fleas that may be present. Finally, try using a natural flea repellent like lemon juice or eucalyptus oil to help keep fleas away. By using these natural methods, you can help get rid of fleas without using harsh chemicals. What are some signs that my dog has fleas? There are a few signs that may indicate your dog has fleas. First, you may notice your dog scratching or biting at their skin more than usual. This is often caused by the flea's bites, which can be very itchy and irritating. Secondly, you may see flea dirt on your dog's fur. This looks like small black dots and is actually the flea's feces. Finally, you may notice your dog has a lot of bald spots or seems to be losing more fur than usual. This can be caused by the fleas biting and chewing on the fur, which can lead to hair loss. If you notice any of these signs, it's important to take action and treat your dog for fleas as soon as possible. What are the best flea and tick medicines for dogs in ? There are a number of different products available on the market. Some of the best flea and tick medicines for dogs in include: 1. Pupper Omega Image courtesy Pupper It's difficult to understand your dog's health. Pupper provides dog owners with all of the information they need in order to make the best decision for their pets. Omega-3 fatty acids are a type of polyunsaturated fat PUFA. DHA is required for proper brain and eye function. EPA aids in the reduction of inflammation throughout the body. NexGard Flea and Tick Chewables Image courtesy Chewy NexGard Flea and Tick Chewables are a monthly chewable tablet for dogs that destroys adult fleas and is used to treat and prevent flea infestations Ctenocephalides felis as well as the treatment and management of American dog tick Dermacentor variabilis , black-legged tick IexGard Flea and Tick Chewables are for use in dogs and puppies eight weeks of age or older only. NexGard Flea and Tick Chewables are safe to use in breeding, pregnant, and nursing dogs. For oral administration to dogs of various weights, NexGard Flea and Tick Chewables are available in four different chewable tablet sizes. The adult fleas on dogs are killed within 30 minutes of beginning Capstar Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs. Capstar Oral Flea Treatment for Dogs is available in four different tablet sizes to administer to dogs of various weights via mouth. The most frequent adverse effects seen in dogs include itching, scratching, licking, and panting. Bravecto Chewable Image courtesy Chewy Bravecto Chewable Tablets for Dogs is a week chewable flea and tick medication for dogs that starts working within two hours and lasts 12 weeks. Bravecto Chewable Tablets for Dogs are safe to use in breeding, pregnant, and nursing dogs. Vomiting, diarrhea, lethargy, and anorexia were the most frequent adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Bravecto Chewable Tablets for Dogs are available in four different chewable tablet sizes for oral ingestion to dogs of various weights. This easy-to-use topical solution kills fleas, flea eggs, flea larvae, ticks, and chewing lice for up to 30 days—protecting your dog for a whole month. Biting insects are harmful to you as well as posing a risk to your dog's health. They can spread Lyme disease, Rocky Mountain spotted fever, and other diseases that you don't want in your home. It's similar to a spray, as it kills mites such as sarcoptic mange and deer ticks. It also destroys deer tick, dog tick, American dog tick, and lone star tick nymphs. It's an ideal solution to your problem. Advantus is safe to use while breeding, pregnant, and nursing dogs. Advantus is available in four distinct chewable tablet sizes for oral consumption to dogs of various weights. These veterinarian-approved, pesticide-free nuggets are meant to be used in place of chemical pesticides for repelling fleas, ticks, and mosquitos. Their benefits are numerous, but it's their inclusion of natural elements like coconut oil, flaxseed, garlic, and brewer's yeast that makes them unique. Even better, each chew is packed with vitamins and omegas to aid your buddy in developing seasonal pest resistance and support his immune system, skin, and joint health. It works by masking the Co2 scent that attracts the fleas. Fleas will never bite your pet and cause her to develop itchy, uncomfortable dermatitis even if you discover one. Flea Away also prevents tick engorgement, making them simpler to remove. It's also a vitamin supplement that is both edible and beneficial to their liver. It additionally has numerous health advantages because it's a whole vitamin in the form of a delicious liver taste. Simparica Trio Chewable Tablets for Dogs Image courtesy Chewy Simparica Trio is a chewable beef-flavored tablet that protects dogs and puppies eight weeks of age and older from fleas, ticks, and sarcoptic mange. The only FDA-approved oral tick prevention product for dogs, Simparica Trio also kills deer ticks the main vector of Lyme disease , American dog ticks, brown dog ticks, and lone star ticks. Vomiting, dry or flaky skin, diarrhea, lethargy, and a lack of appetite were the most frequent adverse effects reported in clinical trials. Advantus is available in four distinct chewable tablet sizes for oral administration to dogs of various weights. Beloved Pets Flea and Tick Control Treats for Dogs are available in four different tablet sizes to dogs of various weights for oral consumption. What are some reasons my dog may be itching a lot? There are many potential causes of your dog's itching, including allergies, parasites, and infections. If your dog is constantly scratching, it's important to take them to the vet to rule out any underlying health conditions. In the meantime, there are a few things you can do to help soothe your dog's itchiness. Give your dog a bath. This will help remove any irritants on their skin and fur. Be sure to use a gentle, hypoallergenic shampoo designed for dogs. Apply a pet-safe anti-itch cream or spray to your dog's skin. These can provide relief from itching and may also help to heal any existing hot spots or open wounds. Make sure your dog is getting enough exercise. A good workout can help to release endorphins, which can help to relieve itchiness and discomfort. Add omega-fatty acids to your dog's diet. These can help to improve the health of your dog's skin and coat. If your dog is itching due to a flea infestation, then consider using any of the 12 best flea and tick medicines for dogs in featured here today. How can I get my dog to take his flea and tick medicine? There are a few things you can do to make giving your dog his flea and tick medicine easier. First, try putting the medicine in a treat or hiding it in some peanut butter. If your dog is still resistant, you may need to give the medicine to him directly by placing it in his mouth and holding his muzzle shut for a few seconds. Finally, if your dog is still refusing to take the medicine, you may need to consult with your veterinarian for other options. What are the side effects of flea and tick medicine for dogs? The most common side effect of flea and tick medicine for dogs is vomiting. If your dog vomits more than once, consult with your veterinarian. Other side effects may include diarrhea, lethargy, and loss of appetite. If you notice any of these side effects, please consult with your veterinarian. What is the best time of year to give my dog flea and tick medicine? The best time of year to give your dog flea and tick medicine is during the spring and summer months, when fleas and ticks are most active. However, if you live in an area where fleas and ticks are a problem year-round, you may need to give your dog flea and tick medicine all year. How often should I give my dog flea and tick medicine? Flea and tick medicine for dogs is typically given once a month. However, please consult with your veterinarian for the best schedule for your dog. Are there any natural alternatives to flea and tick medicine for dogs? There are a few natural alternatives to flea and tick medicine for dogs. One option is to use a flea and tick collar. Another option is to make your own flea and tick spray using essential oils. Finally, you can also try using diatomaceous earth, which is a natural substance that kills fleas and ticks. Do you have a dog that is resistant to taking his flea and tick medicine? There are a few things you can do to make the process easier. First, try hiding the medicine in a treat or some peanut butter. Will the flea and tick medicine for dogs keep my dog safe from future flea and tick bites? The answer to this question depends on the type of medicine you choose for your dog. Some flea and tick medicines are designed to kill adult fleas and ticks, while others are designed to prevent future flea and tick infestations. If you're concerned about preventing future flea and tick bites, be sure to choose a medicine that is designed to do this. Final Thoughts on 12 Best Flea and Tick Medicines for Dogs in Flea and tick medicine is an important part of keeping your dog healthy and free from pests. We've featured the 12 best flea and tick medicines for dogs in , so you can choose the best option for your dog. Remember to always consult with your veterinarian before starting any new medication, and follow the instructions on the label carefully. With proper care, your dog will be happy and healthy all year long! Related Content.

Some of the links in this post are affiliate links, which means I may receive a commission if you click on a link and purchase the item. This comes at no extra cost to you. Looking for the best brushes for your golden retriever? This is an important question since not all brushes are created equal. Some brushes are great for golden retriever coats, some are ineffective on their coats, and some are potentially damaging to their coats. This is because why you need to brush your golden determines what type of brush to get them. There are three reasons you need to brush your golden: Brushing prevents and removes mats Brushing gets rid of loose fur and debris Brushing elps you have less loose fur around the house Preventing and removing mats is the most important reason for brushing your golden. Mats are clumps of tangled fur that can be painful and lead to skin problems. It would be like trying to brush out a piece of gum stuck in your hair. Sounds pretty awful, right? Well, the good news is that regular and proper brushing can prevent mats, or at least remove them before they get too bad. The next reason you need to brush your golden retriever is to get rid of loose fur and debris. My golden, Oliver, loves to roll around outside, but when he comes in he brings all sorts of things with him. Leaves, sticks, dirt, and sticky plant seeds cling to him and either get buried in his undercoat which can lead to mats or get deposited on the floor. Brushing gets this stuff out of his fur. And finally, brushing your golden retriever will get loose fur off of them and onto the brush, rather than off of them and onto your floors. Getting a golden retriever puppy? Check out the Golden Retriever Puppy Handbook! If you only brush the top coat, then you could be missing out on harmful mats in the undercoat. Slicker brushes are made up of fine wire angled teeth that get out tangles, mats, and dead fur. Our favorite slicker brush is this self-cleaning slicker brush because it does a good job at brushing your golden, has gentle teeth, and cleans itself by getting all the fur out of the brush with the push of a button. You can get this slicker brush from Amazon here. Undercoat rakes are a little tougher on mats and tangles than slicker brushes, and are great at getting out dead fur from the undercoat. You can get this undercoat rake from Amazon here. Other Brushes For Golden Retrievers Although most people will be fine with just a slicker brush and an undercoat rake, there are other types of brushes for your golden. Many brushes are 2-in-1 combos of both pin brushes and bristle brushes like this Wahl dog brush. Combs are another option for brushing your dog. They do a similar job as undercoat rakes and are useful for getting mats out. This Andis Pet steel comb is good because it has teeth that are spaced out for when you first start working on a mat, as well as teeth that are closer together to help you finish it off. Remember the gum analogy earlier? Most people opt to just use a slicker brush and an undercoat rake since those do a good enough job. However, some people do love their deshedding tools and use them on their golden retrievers. What are your thoughts on deshedders? Let me know down in the comments! How Often To Brush Your Golden Retriever Since goldens have long, thick coats and shed like maniacs, you need to brush them times per week. Some goldens have longer, thicker coats than others, and need to be brushed everyday, while others like field golden retrievers have shorter coats and need to be brushed just a few times per week. Another factor that goes into how often to brush your golden retriever is the season. Of course, with all the extra dead fur, you may have to brush them more often then. And here are two pro tips if you want a clean house: Tip 1: Brush them outside When you brush your golden hair is going to be flying everywhere. Unless you want it to fall on your floors, brush them outside. Tip 2: Rub them down after you brush them Once you brush them, there will be a lot of leftover fur still laying on them. Rub them down with your hands in the same direction the fur lies to get it all off before you go inside. This will spare your vacuum from having to suck up a little extra fur later. The answer: as soon as you get them! However, you do want to brush them early and often to get them used to being brushed. Give them a lot of treats and keep the brushing sessions short and fun so that they learn to like being brushed. Conclusion The best brush for golden retrievers is a slicker brush. Some goldens will also need an undercoat rake if they have thick coats or get mats often. Have any questions about golden retriever brushes? Related articles:. The bristles are sharp and could hurt some dogs with delicate hair. It also has a good grip. However, its bristles are slightly sharp, and its price is a bit higher compared to similar products. It has gained popularity among pet owners for its exceptional shedding control capabilities. This removes the most shed hair. They effectively detangle and smooth the fur without pulling. FURminator also has anti-microbial plastic surfaces that keep germs to a minimum. Pros Innovative design for superior shedding control Detangles without pulling the hair Crafted with high-quality, long-lasting materials Comfortable grip Suitable for different coat types Cons Very hard to clean and could hurt your fingers. Use the 9-teeth side of this dog and cat brush for smooth dematting, and the teeth side for quick coat thinning and deshedding. Skin Safe: Pamper your pet - pain-free! The teeth on this dog brush for shedding are rounded to make sure your furry friend's skin is protected. This deshedding brush is perfect for cats and dogs with thick, long fur - but it's great for coats of all kinds! Long lasting and durable pet comb that works great even on horses. Easy Grip Handle: Get even the nastiest knots out with ease! Our dog and cat brush for shedding has a non-slip handle to give you a firm and comfortable grip. The tool has nine teeth on one side and 17 teeth on the other. Next, use the side with 17 teeth to thin the fur and remove the shed hair. Pros Dual-sided rake allows faster grooming Versatile and multipurpose grooming tool No-slip handle The bristles are sharp and tend to pull the hair out of heavily matted dogs. Its double-sided functionality, wide head, and comfortable design make it a go-to brush for faster grooming. Its price is reasonable as well. Built to last through multiple grooming sessions. It also promotes blood circulation and massages the skin for better pet health. It's suitable for all short- and long-haired dogs, cats, and other pets. Constructed with durable stainless-steel teeth, this comb effortlessly glides through thick double coats, gently removing tangles and mats without causing any discomfort. The high-quality stainless-steel material is corrosion-resistant and also prevents static buildup. It prevents hand fatigue during longer grooming sessions and also provides a comfortable grip, ensuring precise control and ease of use. Check Price on Amazon The Conair Pet-It for Dog fits in the palm of your hand, which allows you to mimic petting your golden retriever as you brush out loose hair, tangles, and debris. Simply slip the plastic grip through your fingers to put the brush in place. The small shape helps with dogs who may experience anxiety with a larger brush. Conair offers six different brushes in this unique style: a curry comb, a shampooing massage brush, metal pin brush, boar bristle brush, a soft slicker brush, and a slicker brush. This particular type of boar bristle brush is not intended for removing excess hair or working through matted fur. We learned that you can also use it while shampooing your golden to get into their undercoat. Pros Ideal for dogs with anxiety of large brushes Six brush styles Boar bristle brush for smooth, shiny coat Works well for extra cleaning during shampooing Cons Not for removing excess fur or matting 6. This brush comes with an ergonomic handle that has a grooved grip for improved comfort and better command of the brush. This product is larger than similar models on this list at 9 inches in length, making it better suited for larger breeds. We found this brush works rather well on golden retriever coats. We also discovered that the shape of pin brush is not convex, making it less effective. Pros Ergonomic handle with grooved grip Larger size brush Pins tend to fall out Lacking convex shape on pin brush 7. Also, the pins on the Safari are made with durable stainless steel. The curved head on this brush allows you to use a natural motion as you groom your golden retriever. The comfortable handle has a solid grip and a full-size length to fit well in your hand. While not as effective at removing matts and tangles as higher ranked brushes on our list, the Safari is still a solid choice for using on your golden retriever. However, keep in mind that you may run into problems using the retractable feature. If one or more of the bristles becomes bent, the mechanism jams. Other Key Features to Consider in Brushes for Golden Retrievers Ergonomic design for easy handling and reduced strain on hands and wrists during grooming. Retractable buttons or self-cleaning features to make hair removal quick and convenient. High-quality materials that are durable and long-lasting for regular use. Specialized brushes for specific grooming needs, such as deshedding, massaging, or removing loose hair. Gentle bristles or teeth to prevent discomfort or skin irritation during grooming sessions. Non-slip grips for better control while brushing your active Golden Retriever. Versatility to use the brush on both wet and dry fur. Recommended and approved by professional groomers or veterinarians for reliable performance. A healthy coat will feel soft to the touch and not excessively oily or have an unpleasant smell, which might indicate yeast build-up or bacterial issues. A dusty appearance or frequent balls of undercoat fur shedding may signal allergies, hormonal imbalances, infections, or other concerns. For heavy shedders, a slicker brush is effective in tackling matting and removing loose, dead hairs. Alternatively, a gentle pin brush works well for regular coat maintenance, but it may struggle with severe matting. Dogs with long coats, like Golden Retrievers, often require more frequent brushing to manage tangling and matting. Many Golden Retriever owners prefer combining a slicker brush with a metal comb to achieve comprehensive grooming results. If you prefer simplicity and efficiency, opting for a slicker brush could be the best choice, as it efficiently removes matting and loose undercoat hair, streamlining your grooming routine. Every other day brushing for moderate shedders and regular coat maintenance. Weekly brushing for light shedders and short-haired Golden Retrievers. Wrapping Up Finding the best brush for your Golden Retriever is a crucial step towards maintaining their luscious coat and overall well-being. With their unique double coat, Golden Retrievers require specialized grooming tools that effectively address their shedding and matting needs. Embrace the tips and recommendations shared here to make grooming sessions a positive and rewarding experience for both you and your furry companion. Invest in the best brush for your Golden Retriever and witness the remarkable transformation in their health, beauty, and happiness. Happy grooming! How often should I shampoo my Golden Retriever? Shampooing a Golden Retriever should generally be done once a month, or as needed if the dog gets particularly dirty. Over-shampooing can strip the coat of its natural oils. Can you wash a Golden Retriever every week? Washing a Golden Retriever every week can be excessive and might dry out their skin and coat. Can I use baby wipes on my dog? Baby wipes can be used on a dog for a quick clean-up, but make sure they are fragrance-free and alcohol-free. How do you clean Golden Retriever ears? Gently wipe the inside of the ear, but avoid inserting anything into the ear canal, as this could cause injury. Regular check-ups with a vet can ensure proper ear health. Can I shave my Golden Retriever to prevent shedding? No, shaving a Golden Retriever is generally not advised as it can actually cause more problems. Their double coat provides insulation and protects their skin from sun and environmental damage. Regular brushing and grooming are the best ways to manage shedding. Galen has been connecting quality Golden Retriever breeders with loving families since and is the founder of My Golden Retriever Puppies. He and his wife have four children and love spending time together, traveling lived oversees for 4 years , enjoying the outdoors and connecting Golden families. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Brushing any dog is important , as it helps to keep their skin and coat healthy by removing and preventing mats, circulating natural oils, and getting rid of dirt and debris. However, regular grooming of a golden retriever is even more important than it is for dogs with shorter coats, and pet parents should ideally aim to brush their dog for at least a few minutes every day with the best dog brush for a golden retriever. This can result in their coats getting tangled and muddy after walks, as well as occasionally seeming to bring back half the outside foliage embedded in their coats. Therefore, a regular grooming routine is essential to keep them clean and comfy. Regular Handling Helps To Socialize Your Dog Getting into a good routine of grooming can also make your life much easier when taking your pup to the vet or even to a professional groomer, as they will be used to staying still to be handled. Pin Brush These brushes have long, wide-spaced wire pins. They can come with rubber-tipped pins for added comfort. Bristle Brush Bristle brushes do a similar job to pin brushes, but they are more multipurpose, suiting short-coated dogs as well as longer-coated breeds. They come with different bristle lengths and spacings for different types of coats — longer, wider spaced varieties are best for goldens. They also help to stimulate the skin and remove stubborn dirt. These can be a good everyday kind of tool for a quick brush in between more thorough grooming sessions. Slicker Brush Slicker brushes are great for removing loose hair and dirt. They consist of rows of fine wire pins, which are perfect for detangling longer hair. Each pin has a slightly angled end which helps to remove any loose fur. They come in a range of different sizes, so you can pick one that suits your dog. They should be used with caution, as they can cause discomfort if too much pressure is used. Undercoat Rake The purpose of an undercoat rake is to help remove the undercoat during shedding and also generally detangle the undercoat. They come in different lengths, so be sure to pick one suitable for a golden retriever. A Guide To Buying The Best Brush For Golden Retrievers By now, you already know which brush type to go for, but there are still lots of factors you do not want to ignore when shopping for the best dog brush for your golden retriever. Some come with shorter handles, and others have bigger handles. A handle that does not fit well in your hands will strain your wrist and arm and generally be uncomfortable to use. For golden retrievers specifically, the ideal brush has to be suitable for double-coated breeds. You will also run into some that are versatile enough to cater to different coats. Pin Design Top-grade dog brushes mostly feature either flexible, soft, rounded, or bendable pins. Stay away from extremely cheap brushes, as most of them have stiff, sharp pins that are more likely to harm your dog than properly groom them. As a rule, most golden retriever owners will find they need the following brushes to various degrees: a wire pin brush, a bristle brush, a slicker brush, and an undercoat rake. Most golden retriever owners will use at least one of the following brushes to various degrees: a wire pin brush, a bristle brush, a slicker brush, and an undercoat rake. All of the brushes on our list are ideal to use on a golden retriever. You only have to figure out the purpose for which you need the brush for. This will help you narrow your selection to the best brush for your golden retriever in the four categories we looked at above. How much brushing does a golden retriever need? Golden retrievers should be groomed once to twice a week to avoid instances such as painful matting and excess shedding. Remember to use either a pin or bristle brush for regular shedding for regular brushing. But when their hair is too tangled, it would be better to first spray it with water or an appropriate conditioner before brushing it. A slicker brush is the perfect option for this purpose. How do you use a slicker brush on a golden retriever? Earlier on, I briefly mentioned that slicker brushes should be used with caution because they tend to cause a bit of discomfort, especially when you use excess pressure. Instead, use short, gentle strokes to avoid causing irritation. When should I start brushing my golden retriever? Most vets recommend that you start brushing golden retrievers while they are still puppies or around months old. Take it slow at first to allow your pup to become familiar with the grooming process. Remember to use the appropriate brush for the appropriate purpose. Most manufacturers have various options designed for grooming puppies and adult dogs. Last Word On The Best Brushes For Golden Retrievers For first-time owners of golden retrievers, it can seem like a minefield picking out the best brush for your golden retriever. But even long-time lovers of goldens can find themselves confused, too! You May Also Like.

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Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for Texas Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Texas? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Texas? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. Ellen is home full time where she spends most of her day with them from the moment they arrive until they day they go to their new homes. Most importantly, our puppies are center stage in the middle of family life here at Goldenwind. This offers our Texas Golden Retriever puppies optimum opportunities for both human and littermate socialization which is a necessity at this stage of their lives. When the weaning process starts, the puppies are moved to a large playpen in our living room. There they can hear and see everything around them. This includes loud televisions, stereo music, vacuums, doorbells, telephones ringing, doors opening and closing, thunder and rain sounds, kitchen pots and pans clanging, etc. When our Golden Retriever puppies are ready for their new homes at approximatley 8 weeks of age, they have been exposed to most household situations and noises that they will have with their new familes. All that means is that the animal was not quite 24 months of age when the test was performed. Therefore, you can request copies of the hip, elbow, heart and eye reports for the sire and dam of any litter or puppy that is offered for sale. A reputable Golden Retriever breeder will be able to produce the OFA certificates or reports from a board certified radiologist, board certified cardiologist and a board certified ophthalmologist. Therefore, Reputable Texas Golden Retriever puppy breeders have tested sires and dams for hips, elbows, heart and eye disease. Additionally, a Board Certified Canine Ophthalmologist exams the eyes. Reputable Golden Retriever Breeders will follow the American Kennel Club Code Of Sportsmanship One would think that it should go without saying that Sportsmanship is very important in any competitive sport. Actions truly can speak louder than words. We hope that you will see that with any Golden Retriever exhibitor you may meet. We have compiled some of the best breeders in Texas to make the process easier for you. After thorough research, we can ensure that all these golden retriever breeders in Texas are verified, reliable, and strictly adhere to American Kennel Club AKC and US Department of Agriculture guidelines. Weatherby Goldens They are owned and operated by two retired U. Coast Guard officers. Their dogs are imported from Europe and belong to champion bloodlines. Weatherby Goldens breeding facility is spread across 15 acres of land, wherein their dogs and puppies can play and run all day. One of the best features of their property is an old 6-car garage that they have converted into temperature-controlled homes with plenty of room for dogs and pups to run and play. Their dogs are healthy and well-exercised. They have received their vaccinations on time, have been dewormed and declawed, and have been Orthopedic Foundation for Animals OFA -cleared for elbows, eyes, and heart. Their puppies are raised with love and attention and are socialized from birth within their 3-acre wooded property in Bulverde. All pups go to their forever homes with a thorough month puppy guarantee that covers congenital or hereditary defects, severe hip and joint issues, and other life-threatening and altering conditions. They have a strict sanitization policy to eliminate germs, and all pups are examined by a veterinarian before they go to their forever homes. Each puppy undergoes deworming, vaccination, Early Neurological Stimulation, tactile and noise desensitization, potty training and kennel training, area training, and microchip insertion. Address: The Colony, TX Splendor Goldens This breeder is a boutique breeder whose dogs prove to be perfect indoor and outdoor pets. Their pups run and play with their four children and accompany the breeder as the ideal hunting , ranching , and camping partners. Their English Creams belong to champion bloodlines of potent European pedigrees. These pups are well-socialized from birth to become the perfect family pets. All pups are thoroughly checked by certified and experienced veterinarians, dewormed, declawed, and vaccinated. Their pups and parent dogs are genetically sound, screened for hip and elbow dysplasia through OFA, for cataracts by a board-certified ophthalmologist, and heart defects. They are proud breeders of puppies that have competed and won in ring shows, obedience, and hunting competitions. Their puppies are well-socialized and raised with a lot of love and care. As soon as the weaning process begins, the puppies are moved to a large playpen in the living room. They are exposed to ambient noise, such as children playing, television, music, kitchen noises, and the like, to make it easier to adjust to their new homes.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Learn More One of the many great things about Doodles is that they can come in all shapes and sizes, colors and coat types. But what do all of those things mean exactly? What Are Doodle Furnishings? Unfurnished Doodles have smooth facial hair and they resemble more of the other original parent. In fact, unfurnished Doodles are becoming more and more popular. Many people prefer flat coat Doodles, as they resemble less of the Poodle parent, but still benefit from hybrid vigour and less shedding. The easiest way to determine if your Doodle has a furnishing or an improper coat is by looking at their face. Do they have a distinguishably longer beard and eyebrows? For example, a Goldendoodle without furnishings would have a smooth face with no distinctive brows or mustache. Another thing to keep in mind is that puppies will change their coats once they reach adulthood. The most foolproof way of determining if your Doodle puppy has furnishings is by genetic testing and experience. As you might know, Doodles are a combination of at least two different breed dogs. Naturally, this means that a Doodle can end up with a variety of traits and characteristics from each parent pup. Labradoodle with a straight coat. For example, a straight coat Goldendoodle can very well have furnishings. However, a flat coat Goldendoodle will come with a smooth face with no distinctive Doodle look around the eyes or muzzle. An unfurnished Doodle does not have any coat furnishings. Also, the beard, eyebrows, and mustache are all pretty much the same length and not as distinguishable. For instance, an unfurnished Goldendoodle will resemble more of the Golden Retriever parent. Doodles carry two copies of genes that indicate either furnishing or improper coat. The furnishing gene is dominant and a dog only needs one copy of the furnishing gene to present the scruffy Doodle look. As a result, F1 Doodles almost always come with furnished coats. However, it gets trickier with subsequent generations, as both parent dogs can carry the recessive improper coat gene. Improper coat can be prevented by genetic testing. Specialized Doodle breeders who are after certain looks test their parent pups before breeding new litters. Curly-haired and furnished Doodles are loved by people who struggle with allergies. However, unfurnished Doodles have been gaining much popularity thanks to their low-maintenance coats and non-Poodle looks. All in all, it depends on the breeder and what type of puppies they specialize in. If a breeder does not do DNA testing, some puppies in the litter can end up with flat coats. Facial hair is longer with more distinctive eyebrows, beard, and mustache. Straight or slightly wavy hair that sits flat on the body. The face is smooth with shorter hair. No distinctive Doodle look. Shedding Might shed more than straight coat Doodles. Simply put, a furnished Doodle has longer hairs on the face and ears. A furnished Doodle will require regular grooming, as the hair keeps growing. However, some Doodles can end up with flat coats without furnishings. Their facial hair is smooth, much shorter, and they resemble more of the non-Poodle parent breed. In addition, flat coats only grow into a predetermined length. Many breeders do genetic testing to see if a dog carries either a fully furnished or improper coat gene. Do Unfurnished Bernedoodles Shed More? A furnished Bernedoodle would have a very Doodle-like look with longer and fluffier facial hair, and more prominent beard and eyebrows. On the other hand, an unfurnished Bernedoodle would have very smooth and short facial hair with no distinctive eyebrows or beard. Unfurnished Bernedoodles tend to shed more than furnished pups, but usually still less than their purebred parent. Both furnished and unfurnished Doodles have their pros and cons. If you suffer from allergies, you might want to opt for a furnished, curly-coated Doodle who is usually the least shedding out of them all. It all comes down to what look you prefer, and what type of upkeep is more manageable for you personally. We hope this article has helped you understand the difference between furnished and unfurnished Doodles, so you can make an educated decision before bringing your new four-legged family member home. Learn How to Upkeep Your Doodle! Prospective owners are sometimes shocked to learn that straight hair Goldendoodles exist! Goldendoodles with straight hair, sometimes called flat coat Goldendoodles, are often the subject of a lot of confusion. Is there anything wrong with them? Keep reading to get all your questions answered about this unique Goldendoodle coat texture! Can Goldendoodles Have Straight Hair? While not as common as wavy or curly coats, Goldendoodles can have straight hair! As a mixed breed dog, Goldendoodles will take on some qualities of both the Golden Retriever and the Poodle. Naturally, some Goldendoodles will have a flat coat like the Golden Retriever and some will have a curlier coat similar to the Poodle. Breeders often strive to produce Goldendoodle puppies with curly coats, as they tend to be more allergy-friendly and have a lower potential for shedding. Photo courtesy of archiebgolden on Instagram. Are Goldendoodles Always Curly? Goldendoodle coat types can range from curly, to wavy, to completely straight. While there are plenty of straight hair Goldendoodles out there, curly coats are definitely more common in this breed. What coat type a Goldendoodle puppy has depends entirely on the DNA passed on from their parents. Straight hair comes from the Golden Retriever side and curly hair comes from the Poodle side. Photo courtesy of boopitsremy on Instagram. What is a Flat Coat Goldendoodle? A flat coat Goldendoodle is a term used to describe Goldendoodles with straight hair that lack furnishings. Whether or not a Goldendoodle has a flat coat is based on if they have furnishings. See how the one on the left has a more scruffy, teddy-bear look? Just like humans inherit traits from their parents, so do Goldendoodles! Coat texture is one example of a trait that can be passed along from either parent breed. Coat texture can differ not only between litters of puppies but between individual puppies from the same litter! In any given litter of Goldendoodles, some puppies may have flat coats while others have curly or wavy hair. Responsible breeders take great care to select dogs from well-known bloodlines and perform extensive genetic testing prior to breeding. This not not only reduces the likelihood of genetic health issues in Goldendoodles , but it can help increase the chances of a low-shedding and allergy-friendly coat. Breeders sometimes say that straight haired Goldendoodles have an improper coat. Photo courtesy of presleydoo on Instagram. This number indicates how far removed from the initial pairing of two purebred dogs a litter is. Still confused? The generations most likely to result in a straight hair Goldendoodle are F1 or F2 since they both contain the highest percentages of Golden Retriever DNA. Alternatively, you may find a breeder that backcrosses a Goldendoodle to a Golden Retriever resulting in puppies even more likely to have a flat coat. However, this is extremely rare to come across. Most people are hoping for a curly haired Goldendoodle. Are Straight Hair Goldendoodles Hypoallergenic? Straight hair Goldendoodles will NOT be hypoallergenic. Photo courtesy of remdog. Do Straight Coat Goldendoodles Shed? Straight coat Goldendoodles will usually shed moderately. The good news is that with the right knowledge and tools, Goldendoodle shedding can be effectively managed! It all starts with a healthy diet, frequent brushing and bathing, and using the proper equipment. When people adopt Goldendoodles, they are often looking for them to have a certain appearance, and furnishings are sometimes a big part of a Goldendoodle 's appearance. So, how do you tell if a Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings? Furnishings can be seen around the eyes, ears, and nose of a puppy. If the hair around the face is longer than the rest of the coat, the Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings. Furnishings appear when Goldendoodles are around 6 months old, when the Goldendoodle sheds their puppy coat. To find out more about Goldendoodles and their furnishings, keep reading. What are Furnishings? Goldendoodles are known for their teddy bear-like faces, complete with a furry mustache and eyebrows. But not all Goldendoodles fit this description! Furnishings are the longer, poodle -like hairs on a Goldendoodle. Though furnishings are common in Goldendoodles, they aren't always present. The hair will also be curlier. Once they shed that puppy coat, their adult coat will have either furnishings or a flat coat. Puppy coats are thinner, softer coats meant to keep the puppy warm. Adult coats can still be soft but are usually thicker. They are coarser and built for warmth as well as protection of the skin and camouflage. Some dogs will develop a double coat, a coat of fur with a soft and fluffy underbelly close to the skin, and a thicker, coarser, longer coat on the top. Golden retrievers have this double coat that keeps them warmer through insulation. It also waterproofs their skin. Golden retrievers were bred in part to be swimmers, so the waterproofing of the coat was very important to early golden retriever breeders. Instead, they have a single thick, dense coat. Most dogs will shed when the weather gets warmer or cooler so they can grow a new coat to better protect them against the weather. Their coat is similar to human hair. When breeders breed Goldendoodles, they want that poodle hair that doesn't shed and can be styled. They work very hard to make sure that as many puppies as possible have furnishing rather than a flat coat. Do all Goldendoodles have Furnishings? Most people expect that all Goldendoodles have that warm, gold, curly hair that forms eyebrows and a mustache. There are some that have flat coats. Golden retrievers have flat coats, and poodles do not. When you breed a flat coated dog with a furnished dog, roughly three-quarters of the puppies should have furnishings. Once the puppies have shed their puppy coats and grown their first adult coat, you can watch for the fuzzy T shape down the snout and around the eyes. If the fur there is longer than the fur anywhere else, then the puppy will have furnishings. The hair will probably be curly as well, but there are straight hair puppies with furnishings as well. If the puppy does have furnishings, prepare for regular grooming to keep it all in check! The hair won't stop growing naturally, so it will have to be cut or it will start to take over your puppy's beautiful face. What Makes a Goldendoodle Have Furnishings? What gives a golden doodle furnishing is actually a question of genetics. Furnishings are a dominant gene , and flat coats are a recessive gene. So, if a dog has even one dominant furnishing gene, it will have furnishings. A dog has to have two recessive flat coat genes to have a flat coat. If a dog with two furnishing genes is bred with a dog that has two flat coat genes, all the puppies will have one furnishing gene and one flat coat gene. All the puppies will have furnishings, but their puppies could have flat coats if the puppies breed with a flat-coated dog. Statistically speaking, one of every four puppies will be flat coated and not have furnishings. They will also not be able to have furnished puppies. That being said, while flat coats are considered undesirable by dog breeders, flat-coated dogs are just as sweet and lovable as their furnished brothers and sisters. Cindy J. Cindy is a prolific writer and online researcher who can't imagine life without dogs. There is scarcely a dog topic she has not researched or written about. Her love for dogs and helping dog parents is evident by the thousands of dogtemperament. Most of all, each topic Cindy writes on helps forge a stronger bond and understanding between her and her happy Catahoula Leopard Dog Jossie. Certain breeds such as the Poodle, Schnauzer, and Wirehaired Pointing Griffon are known for having "furnishings". Doodles can have one, two, or no copies of the furnishing gene. A dog with two copies of Furnishing will have minimal shedding and their coat will continue to grow. Similarly, a dog with one copy, like a traditional F1 Doodle, will also have minimal shedding. Lastly, a dog with no furnishing will have a coat that sheds and will eventually stop growing according to the breed standard. Did you know that the furnishing gene only affects the bearding and facial hair of a doodle? If a doodle is unfurnished, their face will look smoother and resemble that of their non-poodle parent breed. When it comes to genetics, dogs with an FF gene will have a furnished coat, while those with an IC incomplete coat will be unfurnished. Unfurnished doodles require less grooming, have a more "traditional" appearance, and come in a variety of colors, which can be exciting. Moreover, multigenerational Bernedoodles have wonderful personalities, making them a great choice for those looking for a loving and unique furry companion. Yes, F2 Doodles with an improper coat can still shed. Shedding is a natural process for dogs, and it is not determined by whether or not they have an improper coat. The amount of shedding Doodles experience can be influenced by a variety of factors, including their coat type, length, texture, and thickness, as well as their genetics, overall health, and environment. Doodles with an improper coat may shed more or less than other Doodles, depending on the individual dog and their specific coat characteristics. Proper grooming and care, including regular brushing, bathing, and feeding a high-quality diet, can help reduce shedding in all types of Doodles, regardless of their coat type or whether or not they have an improper coat. If you own a Bernese Mountain Dog, you might have noticed that they shed moderately throughout the year due to their thick double coat. Shedding becomes more significant twice a year, during seasonal changes. To minimize shedding, it's essential to brush your Bernese regularly. However, keep in mind that Bernese Mountain Dogs shed more heavily during specific times, such as when they are pregnant or nursing or when they are puppies. Factors such as nutrition, health, and environment can also affect the amount of shedding. To reduce shedding, it's essential to groom and care for your Bernese Mountain Dog properly. This includes regular brushing, bathing, and feeding them a high-quality diet. Shedding becomes more substantial twice a year during seasonal changes. Regular brushing can help reduce shedding. F2 Doodles A second-generation hybrid doodle breed that results from crossing two first-generation Doodle breeds is referred to as an F2 Doodle. A Doodle is a hybrid dog breed produced by crossing a Poodle with another dog breed like a Bernedoodle or a Golden Retriever. The offspring from this crossbreed is called "F1" Doodles, meaning first generation. F2 Doodles may have varying appearances and temperaments as it is unpredictable which traits they will inherit from their parents. It is important to note that not all Doodle breeders use a standardized naming convention for their litters, so the term "F2 Doodle" may not always be used consistently or accurately. However, the overall coat type of this dog is dependent on the combination of this dog's genotypes at the L, Cu, and IC loci. This dog does not carry the mutation for weak furnishings. Therefore, this dog can produce puppies with improper coat if bred with a dog that carries one or two copies of the mutation for improper coat IC. It's worth noting that the texture of their coat has no impact on their puppy's demeanor, only their charming appearance. By Kern Campbell Furnished Goldendoodles result from careful breeding. Breeders are often keen when choosing the right Goldendoodle parents. It is, therefore, not easy to tell whether the Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings. However, there are a few things a breeder can observe and use to conclude. How can you tell if a Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings? The surest way to determine whether a Goldendoodle puppy will have furnishings is to carry out a genetic test. The presence of an IC Locus gene is the best indicator. Mixed breeds make it hard to predict the traits and characters they are likely to follow. For example, some Goldendoodles are responsible for carrying the facial furnishings gene, which gives them distinct fluffy coats. However, other Goldendoodles carry the gene for an improper coat responsible for their flat coat. Ultimately, it is all about the gene composition of the dog. The parent animal whose gene is dominant will determine the coat the Goldenpuppy assumes when born. Keep reading to uncover more. Knowing whether your Goldendoodle puppy will likely have furnishings needs you to carry out a gene test. You must test the parents to see whether they have the furnishing gene. Your puppies are more likely to have this trait if the parents are first-generation Goldendoodles with the furnishing genes and not second-generation. Dogs with these types of hairs are considered highly desirable breeds of Goldendoodles because they give the dog a signature teddy-bear-like look. Flat hair coat on Goldendoodles is thus considered an improper coat and undesirable trait in these dog breeds. Most Goldendoodles will have furnishings because this gene is one of the most dominant. However, it is possible and common to find doodles with no furnishings, especially if they are from second and third-generation parents. How Does Breeding Work? Understanding the presence of furnishings in Goldendoodles needs one to look at their breeding process. This means that most Goldendoodles will have the dominant gene present and thus are likely to end up with furnishings. This happens if first-generation Goldendoodles are bred as they inherit a strong gene from either parent. However, second-generation breeding of golden doodles often results in a less predictable outcome because the dogs have both dominant and less dominant genes, so the puppies can inherit either. If the parents have dominant furnishing genes, puppies get the furnishings. However, the opposite is true; if the parents have recessive furnishing genes, the puppies will have flat coats. Ensuring Goldendoodle Puppies Get Furnishings? Mixed dog breeding can be tricky since the puppies may take genes from either parent. So there is always no guarantee unless you want to do the hard work. This means you must ensure both parents have strong furnishing genes to be confident that the puppy will also end up with furnishings. What are the Benefits of Furnishings? The primary benefit is that furnishings give the puppies a fluffy, cuddly appearance that most owners love. Your puppy will be a great cuddle buddy any time because they look like a real-life teddy bear. For instance, Goldendoodles with furnishings around the mustache or the beard area have curlier coats , while those with no furnishings come with flat coats. However, it should be noted that furnished Goldendoodles are not necessarily superior to flat coats. It is also a matter of preference. When Do Goldendoodles Develop Furnishings? Breeders can tell that their puppies will have furnishings after a few weeks. However, it is impossible to tell the kind of coat or fur your Goldendoodle will have at birth because most puppies look the same at this age. It takes a few weeks for the furnishings to grow and the coat to develop. Now that your puppy has developed its furnishings and grown into a big furry dog, it is vital to understand how best to groom them. The furnishings will make your Goldendoodle have a lot of fur on the face. Without proper grooming, these furs can get tangled and accumulate dirt. To avoid this from happening, consider the following grooming tips. Focus more on the mouth and face areas. Use a bristle brush comb. The last thing you want is to harm the dog while grooming them. Using an electric clipper, consider trimming the hairs on the cheeks, making sure not to hurt the dog. Swipe twice and go slowly to avoid hurting your dog. Use blunt-end scissors as opposed to clippers to make it safer for the dog. One other concern that you may have besides grooming is shedding. However, this is not something you have to worry about. Contrary to the expectation that more fur would mean more shedding, Goldendoodles with furnishings tend to develop curly coats and not shed. However, this does not mean you do not have your work cut out for you. Prepare for more grooming work since curly fur makes the coat more likely to tangle and suffer from matting. Are Flat Coated Goldendoodles Rare? While many breeders prefer to produce furnished doodles because they are preferred for their less shedding coats, flat-coated doodles are not a rare occurrence. Since this is a matter of chance and genetics, it is possible that despite the careful selection of the parents, puppies may turn out flat-coated. Unless genetic tests are done before breeding, taking a gamble with any parents when breeding could result in either furnished or flat-coated puppies. Either way, the Goldendoodles will still be adorable. However, the flat-coated doodles will; resemble the parents more than the furnished ones, which are hairier. Regardless of the Goldendoodle type you choose, you can be sure that the dog will be a great companion. Select the dog based on your ability to care for and groom them adequately. However, the overall coat type of this dog is dependent on the combination of this dog's genotypes at the L, Cu, and IC loci. This dog does not carry the mutation for weak furnishings. Therefore, this dog can produce puppies with improper coat if bred with a dog that carries one or two copies of the mutation for improper coat IC. A DNA variant in the RSPO2 gene, which functions in hair follicle development, results in the production of furnishings in multiple breeds and is found in all wire-haired dogs. Testing Tips Genetic testing of the IC Locus for the three RSPO2 gene variants will reliably determine whether a dog has furnishings, weak furnishings, or improper coat and whether or not a dog with furnishings is a Carrier of weak furnishings or improper coat. The three variants of the IC Locus are inherited in a hierarchical order of autosomal dominance. Improper coat is, therefore, recessive to furnishings and weak furnishings, meaning two copies of IC are required to inherit an improper coat. Dogs with furnishings can be carriers of weak furnishings or improper coat that can be passed on to their offspring. There may be other causes of this condition in dogs and a normal result does not exclude a different mutation in this gene or any other gene that may result in a similar genetic disease or trait. Coat variation in the domestic dog is governed by variants in three genes.

But those first weeks of puppy development are very similar whatever the breed, and these landmarks are good general rules for any dog. Puppy development week by week, changes quickly. Newborn Puppies Newborn puppies are born at the end of nine weeks of pregnancy, with their eyes and ears tightly closed. They already have a fur coat but they cannot yet control their own body temperature. They are dependent on their mother or another heat source to keep them warm. Newborn puppies may cry if cold. But they do not have the strength to cry for long. Newborn Labrador puppies snuggle together to keep warm when their mother is away How Helpless are Newborn Pups? Although they rely on mom for a lot at this stage, newborn puppies are not completely helpless. They can use their front feet to drag themselves towards a heat source or their milk supply. This means their mom, not milk alternatives like cow or goat milk. Newborn pups have no teeth yet. But they can move their heads about to search for a nipple, and they can latch on and suck strongly. Their mother leaves them only to eat, drink and for bathroom purposes. While she is away, the puppies will crawl together to preserve their body heat, as you can see in the photo above. They may also crawl under a heat lamp source to keep warm. In every other respect newborn puppies are completely dependent on the care of their mother. Newborn pups have little control over the rear end of their bodies. The mother dog washes them and licks their bottoms to encourage elimination, licking up and swallowing anything they produce to keep her babies and their nest scrupulously clean. In fact, he may even double his birth weight! One week later and the puppies have doubled their birth weight. Changes are taking place under his eyelids to prepare them for opening. And usually begins during the second week of life. Ears open at this point too, so your puppy will begin to hear. The Labrador puppies in this picture are two weeks olds. Two weeks old and the puppies eyes are now open! You can see that their eyes are now open and the puppies are beginning to look a little more dog-like. The breeder will be handling the puppies more now. And most puppies are wormed for the first time at two weeks old. Most 3 week old puppies can stand and sit, and are beginning to totter about. They are also starting to develop their individuality. No longer are they just a row of identical little fat furry sausages! This little three week old puppy :- Can easily be distinguished from his brother: Teething and Further Development At 3 weeks old, this is also the point at which puppies start teething — cutting their first deciduous baby teeth. Obviously the teeth are appearing for a reason! Some breeders will start to offer the first tastes of solid food at this point. Especially if the litter is a large one and putting a strain on the mother dog. It is lovely to watch a litter of 3 week old puppies beginning to interact with their brothers and sisters. They are running, playing enthusiastically, and have started to wag their little tails. The puppies will start to show bowel control as they move away from the other puppies to defecate. And solid food is becoming a major part of their diet. These little pups are tucking into some puppy food. Four week old puppies having their dinner in the fresh air If the weather is warm enough, puppies will be spending some time outdoors now. Mealtimes are a messy process, so feeding puppies out in the yard can be a good idea. Breeder Involvement Some mother dogs will lose interest in cleaning up after their pups at this point or soon afterwards. And many puppies will be wormed again this week. Vocalizations are becoming stronger at this puppy development stage. The litter will greet their mother noisily when she returns to them, and try hard to follow her out of the whelping box whenever she leaves. The puppies themselves are now eating solid food several times a day and gradually being weaned of their dependency on her milk. Puppies will still suckle ravenously when their mother returns and she will now often feed them standing up and only for a short time. She will also be teaching the puppies not to bite too hard. So, they should be increasingly spending time with humans and learning to be familiar with the sounds and sights of a human family environment. Puppies being raised in kennels must be brought into a home environment regularly from now on to ensure they develop into confident, friendly dogs. Six weeks old and full of mischief Puppies Still Have a Lot to Learn at 6 Weeks In some countries, puppies are taken to their new homes at this age. But this is not a good idea, and can result in a puppy that has poor bite inhibition and is challenging to manage. The puppies are learning not to bite too hard from the reactions of their mother and siblings. Growth is not quite so fast now. But the puppies will still grow strongly for the next few months. Many puppies will be wormed again this week. All that remains is for plenty of great socialization experiences to be packed into this week, with final checks on health. Many breeders will arrange for each seven week old puppy to have a vet check this week. And though some vets advise against it, some puppies are also given their first vaccinations before they leave for their new homes. Some breeders will now have the puppies trained to pee and poop on puppy pads or newspaper. And some will have been whistling to the puppies at meal times to get them used to coming to a human signal. Potty training is now underway and puppy socialization plans are being made. At this point, many of you will be thinking about training your puppy too. The next four weeks are vital in puppy development stages. Your main job is socializing your puppy. This means taking him to lots of new places and exposing him to lots of new experiences. So, life will be starting to get back to normal. Most puppies in the U. In the U. So, not all puppies will get their vaccinations at the exact same age. Socializing your puppy is still the most important job for you at this age. But, you cannot put your puppy on the ground outside until they have received their final vaccination. So, make sure you know exactly when their final jab is. And carry on introducing them to as many new people, things, and experiences as possible throughout this puppy development stage. Some people can suffer from the puppy blues at this stage too, as your life has completely changed! But, that does not mean socialization can stop. Puppies who are isolated at this point will soon lose that friendly fearlessness. You have an important job now, building on what has been achieved so far, and introducing your puppy to the world at ground level. This part of his education can begin once his vaccination cover is complete. He should be fully immunised at around this point. But check with your vet for confirmation of the actual date. Three months also marks the point at which many puppies will drop down from four daily meals, to three. This can cause problems for some puppies because the portions are larger If your puppy gets an upset tummy when you make this change, just go back up to four meals again for a few days, and give smaller portions for a few days when you try again. But, many will need another month before they can cope without frequent bathroom breaks and the occasional accident. Your puppy will begin to lose his baby teeth. This can also be a time at which biting can be most challenging. And try not to worry, this stage will soon be over! A few will need another month or two to complete the process. Remember, no two puppies are the same. That puppy fluffiness will have gone. For many puppies, five months is an awkward, gangly time. A five month old puppy may have shed the last of his soft puppy lines and be looking quite skinny. By the end of this month most puppies will have finished teething but an urge to chew may continue for another few months in some breeds, Labradors included. Some female dogs will have their first season during this month. But, for many, it will be another three or four months before this happens. This is a major milestone for your puppy. He is now looking very much like an adult Labrador. Still a Puppy Because he looks quite grown up, people expect a lot of their 6 month old puppy. But inside, he is still very much a puppy. The beginnings of adolescence and with it an increasing independence of spirit can bring its challenges, but also a whole lot of fun. Abstract Background Weight at birth is an important predictor of neonatal mortality and morbidity in dogs. In addition, the birthweight of the puppies in a litter influences the decision to perform a cesarean section. The goal of the present study was to estimate heritabilities for the puppy birth weight in Labrador retrievers. Results Of the Labrador retriever litters whelped at the Guiding Eye for the Blind between September and February , were included in the analyses after data editing. Puppy weight at birth was the target trait, measured on a continuous scale in pounds, and converted to grams. Linear mixed models were used to identify factors influencing puppy weight at birth. The analyses showed that the sex of the puppy, litter size, length of gestation, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficient of the puppies and dams contributed to the variance of the puppy birth weight. Dam and litter effects were included as random effects. A multiple trait derivative free restricted maximum likelihood approach was used to estimate variance components and genetic parameters with two animal models, one without covariates Model 1 and one with covariates Model 2. Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects. Estimates for Model 1 and Model 2 were 0. Conclusions In order to estimate reliable breeding values for puppy weight at birth, sex of puppy, litter size, length of gestation and the adult weight of the dam should be included. Estimates could benefit from weighing the dams prior to each mating. Background The size or weight of puppies at birth is an important parameter, which influences neonatal mortality and morbidity and is a predictor of puppy survival [ 1 , 2 , 3 ]. After a physiological weight loss within the first three days post-partum the growth curve reverses and birth weight is doubled after two weeks [ 4 ]. Breeders should weigh the puppies daily for at least the first three weeks [ 5 ] and provide each puppy with an individual feeder bowl. In this way, problem puppies are recognized early and the breeder may seek advice from a veterinarian. A recent publication proposes health monitoring for newborn puppies by assessing blood and other parameters to reduce neonatal losses [ 6 ]. Factors with an influence on the birthweight have been reviewed for domestic animals [ 7 ]. Among them are year and season of birth, sex, age and diet of the dam and fetal environment. Possible influences on gestation length in dogs including breed, litter size, parental age and size or parity have been investigated in different breeds [ 2 , 10 , 11 , 12 , 13 ], but were not conclusive. A recent genome-wide association study revealed six canine SNPs associated with gestation length [ 14 ], which may lead to the identification of genetic variants influencing this trait. Birth weight is not only determined by the genetic makeup of the offspring and its environment, but also by the maternal genetic composition and environment provided by the dam [ 15 ]. Estimates for genetic parameters for the birth weight in dogs are scarce. Nielen and coworkers [ 16 ] estimated the direct heritability for birth weight in Boxers to be 0. Helmink and coworkers estimated direct heritabilities for German shepherds GS and Labrador retrievers LR to be in the range of 0. In the same study the maternal additive genetic heritabilities were estimated to be in the range of 0. Estimation of maternal effects may improve breeding value estimation. Guiding Eyes for the Blind is a non-for profit organization that breeds and trains mostly LR and a few GS to provide guide dogs to people who are blind or have visual impairment. The breeding strategy and detailed procedures of Guiding Eyes for the Blind have been described [ 18 ]. The aim of the present study was to identify factors that influence puppy weight at birth which can provide insights for improvement in the Guiding Eyes for the Blind breeding program. Results To reliably estimate parameters levels of covariates with less than 30 litters were not included in the analyses. As a result of this restriction, 91 litters with a litter size smaller than four puppies or larger than eleven puppies, 15 litters with a gestation length shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days and 19 litters with parities larger than six were dropped, leaving litters with puppies in the study. The average puppy weight was g, and males were heavier g than females g. The fixed effects of season of birth of the litter, inbreeding coefficient of the sire, as well as adult weight of the sire did not have a significant effect on PWB in LR. Table 1 Effects influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates Model 1 and a model with covariates 2. The direct-maternal covariance was held at zero Full size table Sex of the puppy and litter size had moderate effects, whereas gestation length, adult weight of the dam, parity, year of birth and inbreeding coefficients of the dam and the puppies had minor effects Table 1. Estimates of variance components Table 1 and genetic parameters Table 2 for PWB are shown for models 1 and 2. To make the individual effects of the covariates model 2 more tangible, detailed information about their magnitude are given in Additional file 1. Table 2 Proportions of variance components influencing the individual birth weight of puppies. Comparison of the variance components of a model without covariates 1 and a model with covariates 2. The aim was to measure the genetic correlation between the two traits Additional file 2. The genetic correlations of the direct effects as well as the one of the maternal effects reached almost unity. These results indicate that the architecture of the direct as well as the maternal additive genetic effects of PWB should be very similar in both sexes. These findings allowed for jointly analyzing the PWB of both sexes and to run a univariate mixed animal model with sex as covariate. Discussion Birth weight is a complex trait and influenced by many factors. PWB and post-natal weight gain are important parameters to recognize problem neonates and puppies deviating from normal development, respectively. Variation in size is desirable for Guiding Eyes for the Blind client placements. Dogs provided to people who are blind or visually impaired and also have difficulties with balance require a larger dog to aid in stability. In contrast, many guide dog users prefer a smaller more compact dog to easily fit in smaller spaces available when using commercial means of transportation. However, too heavy or too large guide dogs may be a hazard for the user [ 17 ]. Avoiding the birth of puppies with extreme birth weights is desirable in dog breeding and enhances welfare of the animals in general. In dogs, season of birth was associated with risk for cardiovascular disease risk [ 21 ] and fertility in bitches kept in tropic countries [ 22 ], however, the authors are not aware of any work reporting a seasonal effect on PBW. This is in contrast to findings in humans where the season of birth was strongly associated with birthweight and adult weight, as well as health outcomes in later life [ 23 ]. Seasonal effects on birth weight were found in horse or sheep [ 24 , 25 ]. Sex of the individual affected birth weight in LR. On average, female puppies were 24 g lighter than male puppies. This effect of the sex of an individual confirms the results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 26 ] and may reflect physiological differences between the sexes. In our data a genetical sex dimorphism could not be detected. As in full sib families dominance effects could affect the estimation of additive genetic effects [ 27 , 28 ] we also investigated possible dominance effects in our data using WOMBAT together with the R-package NADIV [ 27 ]. With the same approach we also assessed possible sex chromosomal influences usually not considered in variance component analyses. Our data revealed neither substantial dominance effects nor sex-linked effects Additional file 3. The antagonistic relation between litter size and PWB is well known for domestic animals [ 7 ]. In LR, an increase of the litter size by one puppy resulted in a moderate decrease of PBW of 11 g in average confirming results of earlier studies in the dog [ 3 , 16 , 29 , 30 ]. However, the effect was small with an increase of about 6 g for an additional day in the length of gestation. Whereas the adult weight of the sire did not influence PWB in LR, offspring of heavier dams showed a slightly higher PWB, on average by 5 g per kg adult weight, which confirms a previous report [ 3 ]. In a study of Great Danes with a rather restricted data set, the maternal and paternal adult weight had a positive effect on the PBW. Furthermore, higher adult weight of the sire increased neonatal weight gain in this breed [ 29 ]. In LR, up to about parity two to three the PWB in LR increased about 4 g in a linear fashion whereas from about parity two to three to parity six the PWB decreased about 4 g in a non-linear fashion. A similar observation was made in humans [ 31 ]. Although the PWB was fluctuating over the years there was a very small increase of 2 g per year from to .It is well known, that the year of birth may lead to variation of the birth weight by differences in the climate, management and selection of breeding animals in domestic species [ 7 ]. The reason for this very small increase of PWB in LR remains unclear but may be related to the selection of breeding animals. Inbreeding may affect many traits including birth weight [ 32 ] and litter size [ 33 ] in domestic animal species. In the present study, PBW was only marginally influenced by the inbreeding coefficient. Inbreeding of the puppies and the dam had very small but opposite effects. The residual variances are not different but the environmental variance of the litter in model 2 is less than half of that in model 1 and the direct genetic variance in model 2 is close to half of that in model 1. The differences of the maternal genetic variance and the environmental variance of the dam are much less pronounced between the two models. These observations are reflected in the estimates of heritabilities and proportions Table 2. The maternal heritability 0. The residual is larger in model 2 due to the smaller total variance. In Boxers, estimates for heritability of birthweight corrected for litter effects and sex were much higher 0. This discrepancy may be explained by the fact that for our study maternal effects were included in the models. Helmink and coworkers estimated heritabilities for birthweight in German shepherd dogs and LR [ 17 ] by using the following bivariate models: birth weight — 42 days weight and birth weight - mature weight accounting for the litter. For birthweight in LR they found similar direct genetic heritabilities 0. Our results suggest that the inclusion of covariates may lead to better estimates although standard errors of heritabilities and proportions are only marginally smaller in model 2 than in model 1. However, the knowledge benefits anyone especially the working dog community who wants to investigate birth weight in a specific population, canine or not, or improve the situation with respect to birth weight in specific populations. Results suggest that the inclusion of covariates in the model improves the estimates of variance components. The magnitude of the heritabilities indicates that estimation of breeding values could improve breeding program with respect to PWB. Whether our findings help to improve the situation with respect to the stabilization of PWB in guide dogs depends heavily on how they can be implemented in a breeding strategy that is focused on the guiding abilities of the dogs. To evaluate the impact of our results on the general LR population, reliable data on PWB need to be collected. Most of the covariates included in model 2 could also be recorded in the field. The target trait, individual puppy weight at birth PWB was measured in pounds and converted to grams. The final data set comprised puppies in litters by dams and sires, born from September to February Additional file 4. Potential predictors were chosen based on literature [ 4 , 11 , 26 , 29 , 36 , 37 ]. Breed, a well-known factor influencing PBW [ 6 ] was not relevant for the present study because all animals were LR. The diet of the dam during pregnancy can influence the birth weight of puppies [ 26 ], but was not included in the analyses, because keepers of pregnant dams adhere to the feeding regime recommended by the Guiding Eyes for the Blind. Descriptive statistics for PWB and variables in the analyses are given in Additional file 5. Prior to the estimation of variance components, the significance of factors was evaluated and correlations between explanatory variables estimated Additional file 6. Litter size ranged from 4 to .Litters with less than four puppies and litters with twelve or more puppies were excluded from the analyses. Parity ranging from 1 to 6 and parity squared, as well as length of gestation were included. Litters with gestation lengths shorter than 56 days or longer than 63 days were excluded. Litters after cesarean sections were included in the analyses, because the gestation time was known. Year of birth was a possible predictor and encompassed the years to .Further possible predictors were the inbreeding coefficients of the puppies and their parents, as well as the sex of the puppies. Finally, adult weight of the dam was measured in pounds then converted to kg. Model 1 contained no covariates, because covariates are not always easily recorded in the field, and Model 2 included the covariates identified to influence PWB Additional file 7. The covariance between direct and maternal genetic effects fluctuated around zero and was never different from zero. Therefore, it was fixed at zero for both models. For both models the following variance components were estimated: direct genetic variance, maternal genetic variance, maternal environmental variance, environmental variance by the litter and residual variance. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. In this article, we will take a look at some of the essential questions about puppy nutrition. We will start with how you can tell if your puppy is getting the nutrition they need. Next, we will look at how often puppies need to eat, how much they need to eat, and what they should be eating for optimal nutrition. This article is for entertainment purposes only. If you have any health-related questions about your dogs or puppies please consult with your vet or animal nutritionist. While we assume that nature will take its course for puppies that are nursing and that they will get enough nutrients from their mother, this does not always happen. How do you know? If it is just one puppy in the litter, it will be noticeably smaller than the others. This means that they should have doubled in size within the first week. When fed from their mother, newborn puppies will eat around every two hours. The time between feedings will gradually increase, so it might be three hours between feedings at two weeks and three and a half hours at three weeks. They should not be left without food during the night and may need one or two nighttime feeds. By the time they are four to five weeks old, you can expect that they will be eating around every hours during the day, and they should continue to eat at night. They should not go more than five hours without food. Once your puppy gets to six to eight weeks old, they can start being weaned onto solid food and should be eating around four times a day. They can go up to eight hours without food during the night. It is better to give your puppy smaller meals more often rather than larger meals at longer intervals to help with digestion. Also, puppies have not yet developed the ability to manage their blood sugar levels, so they need regular feeding to keep their energy on an even level. That said, for the first four weeks, they will spend most of their time eating, sleeping, and pooping. It can be a good idea to massage their bellies after a meal to help with proper digestion. As puppies grow and move on to solid foods, you can further reduce the frequency at which they eat. Try and get them into a regular eating schedule as soon as possible, to give them security and to make bathroom needs and house training predictable. How often they should be fed depends mainly on the size of the breed, but there are some exceptions. Toy breeds should have meals a day until they are about four months old. This can be reduced to meals a day at six months until they are full-grown; then they only really need two meals a day. Small and medium breeds can move on to a lower-frequency feeding schedule when they are about four months old and can eat just twice a day for the rest of their lives. Larger breeds will need meals a day when they are about four months old, but they will continue to need this more frequent feeding to keep up with their energy use as adults. What Should Newborn Puppies Eat? They are not dissimilar from the formula that human babies receive, but are tweaked for puppy nutrition. Below are some of the best puppy formulas that you can get today. It is recommended to reconstitute the milk with one part formula and two parts water, and every tablespoon will provide .Shop All Cat Food Few things are more delightful than a litter of newborn puppies, but the prospect of caring for all of these brand new little lives can be daunting. But don't worry. Check out this guide to newborn puppy care to tell you what need to know to raise a healthy, happy litter. A Clean Environment Newborn puppies will spend their first few weeks in the box or pen in which they were born, so it's important to choose wisely when preparing for their arrival. The space should offer enough room for the mother to lie down and stretch out comfortably without crushing the puppies, and she should be able to come and go freely while keeping the puppies contained. It should also be easy to access so that you can change out the bedding each day. In these early days, Mom will clean up her pups' waste, but if it's a large litter she may need help keeping up. Around the end of the second week or the beginning of the third week, the puppies will open their eyes and become more active. Once they start to toddle about, you can move them to a larger pen with room to play, and bathroom cleanup will require more of your attention. Although the puppies will snuggle up with their mom and each other for warmth, it's best to use a heat lamp during their first month of life. The lamp should be placed high enough above the box to prevent any risk of burning the mother or her pups, and there should also be a cooler corner that the pups can crawl to if they get too warm. For the first five days, the temperature inside the pen should be kept at about 85 to 90 degrees Fahrenheit. From days five through ten, gradually dial back the heat to 80 degrees, and then continue to reduce the heat little by little until it reaches 75 degrees by the end of their fourth week, suggests PetPlace. Nursing and Nutrition During their first few weeks, puppies rely exclusively on their mother for their nutritional needs. Although she may be less active during this time, nursing uses up a lot of the mother's energy and her daily caloric requirements will be higher than normal, says the AKC. To ensure both mother and puppies receive adequate nutrition throughout the nursing stage, the mother should be fed several servings of a quality puppy food throughout the day. Your veterinarian can recommend the type and amount of food to feed your nursing mother. It's important to keep an eye on the puppies' weight during this time. If you notice any of the puppies being underfed, you may need to keep an eye on them when it's time to nurse and make sure the smaller puppies latch onto the fullest nipples for feeding, says The Nest. Puppies who cry or whimper frequently may also be hungry and need more attention during feeding. If the smaller puppies still don't show signs of healthy growth or weight gain, talk to your vet. It might be necessary to take over and bottle-feed them. It's also important to watch the mother for signs of mastitis, says Wag! Signs of mastitis include red and swollen nipples and reluctance to nurse. The mother may even snap at the puppies when they try to eat. If you notice these signs, contact your vet right away. By the fourth or fifth week, the puppies will start getting their teeth and the weaning process will begin as the mother's milk production slows. Once you notice the puppies starting to sample Mom's food, it's time to provide them with their own dish of puppy food. Health Young puppies are susceptible to disease and infection, so you'll need to keep a close eye on them. Newborn puppy care should include regular inspections to watch for signs of infection or poor health. Report anything unusual such as vomiting, diarrhea or a puppy who won't stand or eat to your vet. Little puppies are also especially vulnerable to fleas and other parasites, says The Spruce Pets , so talk to your vet about appropriate parasite control. Although antibodies they receive from nursing will help protect them from illness in the early weeks, these antibodies wear off around six to eight weeks, which is when they will need to receive their first round of vaccinations. Make sure you and all family members thoroughly wash your hands before interacting with these puppies to help reduce the risk of getting them sick from any bacteria that might be lying in wait on your hands. Socialization By the fourth week the puppies are ready to begin socializing with humans and other dogs. Weeks four through twelve are a critical window during which puppies need to learn about the world they'll inhabit so they'll become well-adjusted, happy dogs, says The Spruce Pets. Poorly socialized puppies tend to grow into anxious dogs who may have behavioral problems, so whether you plan to keep the puppies or send them to good homes, it's important to cuddle and play with them, allow them to explore and play and expose them to as many new experiences as possible. Newborn puppy care entails a lot of work, but these first several weeks go by in a flash. If your puppies end up being adopted, you'll be saying goodbye to them in no time, an event that is often bittersweet. Enjoy the pups while you have them, and when it's time to let go, you'll have the satisfaction of knowing you gave them the best possible beginning. Contributor Bio Jean Marie Bauhaus Jean Marie Bauhaus is a pet parent, pet blogger and novelist from Tulsa, Oklahoma, where she usually writes under the supervision of a lapful of furbabies. Here's what you need to know about taking care of your newborn pups after they are born. Approach the Puppies With Caution Although you may want to pet and hold the puppies constantly, it is important not to intervene too much in the first week or two of their lives, as they are very susceptible to disease, and it can be stressful for the mother and puppies. Use caution when approaching the puppies, as some mothers may show aggression to humans or other household pets if they perceive a threat. As the puppies get older and more active, your dog will want more and more time to get away and sleep, exercise, or socialize with members of the household. So give your dog space to get away from the puppies, but make sure that she is often returning to check on them. Provide A Warm Environment Puppies cannot regulate their body temperature until they are 3 to 4 weeks old. Therefore, for the first 4 weeks of their lives, you should provide a warm, clean box or bedding for the mother and puppies to share. To keep the puppies warm, position a heating lamp above it. Ensure there are unheated areas, as the puppies will need to move away from the heat source if they become too warm. Monitor the puppies' temperature. If puppies are too cold, they cannot process milk and it may curdle in their stomach. Do not use heating pads, as the puppies may be cold and stay on the heating pad too much. If it is too hot, it can cause burns. Start Socializing the Puppies If the mother dog allows it, you can get the puppies used to your presence. Socializing them early can help ensure that they fit nicely into a household. Puppies should initially be weighed twice a day for the first week or two, then daily. Puppies should never lose weight or even maintain weight—either of these is cause for supplementation and concern. If you notice that one of your puppies is smaller, not gaining weight, or has less energy than the others, consult your veterinarian. Puppies should not be taken away from their mother and sent to their new homes too quickly, as they learn important social rules and behavior from their mother and siblings. Puppies should not be separated from their mother if they are younger than 8 weeks old, and it may be illegal before this in many states. Waiting until they are 10 weeks old will give the maximum benefit of social interaction with their mother and littermates. Feeding and Weaning Newborn puppies should nurse at least every 2 hours for the first week or two of life. After this, they can stretch the feeding times to hours, as long as they are still gaining weight and doing well. Once the puppies are 3 to 4 weeks old, you can begin the weaning process by giving them access to puppy food. You can mix a high-quality commercial puppy food with water or canned puppy food to make it easier for them to eat. It is important that the food is softened at first. They should still have constant access to the mother, as she will continue to nurse them. Over the next few weeks, they will rely more and more on puppy food rather than nursing. Most dogs will wean their puppies by 5 to 6 weeks of age. Puppies have sharp teeth at this point, so nursing may be painful to the mother dog. Continue to be vigilant and monitor her for signs of mastitis. Contact Your Vet Just After the Puppies Are Born Contact your veterinarian to ask for their recommendation regarding when the puppies should first be examined. They may want to see them right away to evaluate for cleft palates , umbilical hernias , and other health concerns, or they may advise you to wait until they are a bit older. Most veterinarians recommend deworming at regular 2-week intervals starting at 2 weeks old. Lauren Jones graduated from the University of Pennsylvania School of Veterinary Medicine in , after receiving her bachelor's degree.Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? Training and Socialization Back to Top The birth of puppies is an exciting time. It's beautiful to watch a mother care for her newborns, especially in the early stages of life. A newborn puppy is completely helpless and dependent upon its mother. The first week of a puppy's life is mainly about sleeping and eating so it will grow. Puppies should remain with their mother and littermates until about age eight to 12 weeks. However, it is most crucial to have a mother during the first few weeks of life. A puppy that has been separated from its mother will need human intervention. Raising a newborn puppy takes a lot of time and intensive care. This is not quite the same thing as caring for a young puppy. They cannot see and can hear very little, if at all. Yet they are able to make noise, which sounds like high-pitched squealing. They have no teeth at birth and are unable to walk. Newborn puppies are incapable of urinating or defecating on their own. In addition, a newborn puppy cannot regulate its own body temperature. Most newborn puppies are instinctively able to find their mother's nipples and begin nursing right after they are born, or whelped. Once cleaned up by mom or a helping human hand they will crawl towards the mother's warm belly, find the teats, and begin to suckle. Fun Fact With proper food intake and mothering care, a newborn puppy should double its weight in the first 10 days of its life. That's more than 22 hours a day, but sleep doesn't happen all at once. Pups will nap on and off throughout the day and night, keeping warm with littermates and the mother's body heat. In between naps, they spend the rest of the time eating and being groomed by mom. Newborn puppies eat about every two hours or more. Because newborn puppies cannot see, hear, or walk, they do not have much exploring to do early on. The puppy's world is all about mom, littermates, and the box they all sleep in. Health and Care During the first few weeks of a puppy's life, the mother dog spends the majority of her time providing food and care. The mother keeps her puppies clean and nurses them. She licks the anus and genitals of each puppy to stimulate urination and defecation. During this time, humans can gently hold and pet the puppies for brief periods as long as this does not seem to upset the mother dog. It's more likely for human contact to be welcomed if those humans are part of the mother dog's family. In general, it's best to let mom do her job and stick to just petting the puppies. However, there are situations where the mother is unwilling or unable to care for her pups. Or, mom might be doing a fine job, but one or more puppies are not growing properly. This is when human intervention is the only possible way to save the puppies. If you decide to care for an orphaned puppy, be prepared to spend most of your time with the puppy for the next few weeks. Warning Any time a puppy is not gaining weight well or becomes orphaned, that puppy should be taken to a vet as soon as possible to assess her health. Puppies can get very sick very quickly without proper care. When in doubt about the health of a puppy, do not delay the vet visit! If the puppy was rejected by her mother, it may be due to a health issue detected by the mother. In the meantime, you will need to do your best to provide the care her mother would have. Create a warm environment for the puppy to sleep. A small box with blankets and a heating lamp is ideal. Keep the lamp at a fair distance so the environment does not overheat. A heating pad and blankets can also work, just make sure the heating pad is well-covered to prevent burns. Bottle feed a special puppy formula every hours. You should be able to find puppy milk replacement at a pet food store or through your veterinarian. Do not feed puppies cow's milk, as it does not provide adequate nutrition and it can cause digestive issues. Use a warm cloth or cotton ball to stimulate urination and defecation immediately after each meal. The amounts of urine and feces will be very tiny. A normal stool will be yellowish and soft. Regularly massage the puppy's body and clean the puppy as needed. Massage will mimic the feeling of the mother grooming, something experts believe is an integral part of development. Food and Nutrition In general, a newborn puppy gets all the nutrition it needs from its mother's milk. The first milk made by the mother contains colostrum, a substance that contains additional antibodies to help the puppy fight infection. This can be absorbed by the puppy for the first day or two of life and provides some temporary immunity against whatever illnesses the mother has immunity against. Be aware that commercial puppy formula will not provide colostrum. Bottle-fed puppies that do not get colostrum are especially vulnerable to illness and may not thrive. A veterinarian may be able to administer serum from another dog to the puppy within the first 24 hours of its life to mimic the effects of colostrum. Newborn puppies will not have teeth for several weeks and are unable to digest puppy food. Do not introduce any kind of dog food until the puppies are ready to begin the weaning process, usually around weeks of age, unless it is otherwise recommended by a veterinarian. Training and Socialization A newborn puppy is too young to go through any kind of training, but there may be some things you can do to get her used to people and her environment. If the mother permits it, handle the puppies regularly for a short time. Take care not to keep the pup away from mom for more than a few minutes. You can use the time to cuddle and pet the puppy, acquainting her with the smell and feel of humans and the environment. The Birth and Care of Newborn Puppies November 01, Once a puppy is born, its mama will remove the sac and chew the umbilical cord to sever it. Post birth, a mama will thoroughly lick her puppies, apparently removing any fluid from their noses. Only once in a great while have we ever needed to suction fluid from puppy noses, using a bulb syringe. This movement dislodges fluids from the lungs so that it can breathe normally. The green is from the inner lining of the placenta. Most of the time, a mama is able to lick away these various forms of discharge, leaving her pups spotlessly shiny. However, we have observed that the green fluid can stain the coats of light-colored puppies. After a puppy is born and licked clean by its mother, it will immediately wobble and wriggle directly toward a teat. This is remarkable, given the fact that all puppies are born blind and deaf. Their senses of smell and touch are enough to draw them toward the milk they need to survive. Most mama dogs instinctively know how to whelp all their pups without injuring them. However, some first-time moms are frantic. They step on their puppies, pick them up in their teeth, roll over onto them and smother them, or move them around every few minutes as though they cannot figure out the origin or nature of these squirmy little gerbils that seem always to be underfoot. In these cases, we must remove the puppies to a safer area until their mother has whelped all of her puppies and has calmed down. After a visual observation and feeling her abdomen, we can usually determine if there are any more pups to be delivered. If it is apparent that labor is stalled and there are more puppies to whelp, we give the mama an injection of oxytocin, which stimulates more contractions and facilitates more births. Oxytocin also assists with the expulsion of the placenta. Once the whelping is complete, you can breathe a sigh of relief. The new mother will settle into a routine of caring for her pups and resting after the ordeal. The post-birth cleanup is far more manageable, although it will continue for days and even weeks as an intermittent stream of blood expels from her vaginal area. Any nursing mother needs to drink extra helpings of water, so we make sure our moms have plenty to drink day and night. I hope you have found this article interesting. Thank you for reading! Note: Most of this information is based on our own personal experience, but a few details were gleaned from the book, The Monks of New Skete: The Art of Raising a Puppy, published by Little, Brown, .Marble Mountain Kennels.

Our dogs are fed real foods, meat with bones, organ meats, fruits, veggies, coconut oil, and kelp to ensure they have what nature intended them to have. Just like humans, quality foods are the building blocks our pups need to build quality bodies! For us, the difference in our animals is profound. From a shinier coat, fresh smelling breath, higher amounts of energy, healthier stools, and an overall expression that elicits happiness. You can rest assured knowing that your new puppy has been raised on the highest quality of building blocks since conception. Investing in your pet's food, is investing in their quality of life! Our dogs are extremely active and well-socialized on our homestead. Playing "dog tag" is one of their favorite daily activities but they also enjoy playing in our creek or cooling off in the the cows' water troughs, going to the local waterhole for a swim, or playing and snuggling with our five amazing children. Our goldens follow us everywhere, whether it be tending to the garden, checking in on the cows, hanging out with the cats, goats and chickens, or going on family adventures. Our dogs are abundantly loved and make our family complete! There are 9 beautiful girls and 2 handsome boys. All puppies come with full AKC registration, a go-home vet exam, dewormed, a 3-day supply of fresh food, our golden-goodie bag, raw feeding information, a 1-year health guarantee and receive zero vaccinations. Both parents have been health tested with UC Davis' golden health panel. Copies of the results are linked. Our sire, Leo, is a beautiful thick-haired golden sweetheart. He's the most athletic, loyal, loving, and cuddly golden there is. Golden retrievers are one of the most popular breeds of dog. Golden retrievers are perfect for anyone looking for a companion member of their family. A golden retriever is a great dog to bring into a home with other pets, as well. Not to mention, they are absolutely beautiful with their long and shiny coats of fur. We are very passionate about the Golden Retriever and our dogs are bred with love and care. We work hard at pairing our dogs to breed the gentle temperament that makes golden retrievers famous. Our adults are all indoor family pets who are also trained performance dogs. Tails of Gold adult dogs have earned multiple agility titles so the puppies you get from us have parents whose intelligence and trainability has been tested. A wonderful showcase of awards have been won with these highly intelligent golden retrievers. In addition to their own merits, the parents also have good breeding lines. They have Champion lines in track and field, conformation and obedience. Thank you for visiting our website. Our puppies are treated as members of our family and we will happily welcome them into yours. If you would like to adopt a wonderful and beautiful Golden Retriever, please contact Tails of Gold today. We look forward to hearing from you. I will be happy to help find the right dog for your family! Happy, Healthy Bloodline Our track record for producing healthy puppies is exceptional and has been proven in an 22 year breeding history. An excellent written health guarantee is offered with each puppy. All of our golden retriever puppies have regular veterinary check-ups and are kept up to date on vaccinations. Rest assured that your Tails of Gold puppy has gotten off to a healthy start! A Furever Friend Soft, furry, lovable and full of snuggles. And who can resist those eyes? We work very hard to breed the very best puppies. It is our privilege to provide one of our babies to your loving home. Welcome to Family Affair Puppies! We are your premier destination for exquisite Golden Retriever puppies that will steal your heart! We are more than just a breeder; we are a passionate and devoted family that shares unconditional love for animals. Our commitment to raising healthy and affectionate puppies is at the core of everything we do. They become cherished members of our families, offering unwavering loyalty, unconditional love, and endless joy. Looking for Golden Retriever puppies for sale from genuine breeders? You are in the right place! As genuine breeders, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity and excellence. We meticulously select our parent dogs based on their exceptional temperament, sound health, and remarkable conformation, guaranteeing that our puppies inherit the best qualities that define this incredible breed. Each puppy is born and raised in a nurturing and loving environment, surrounded by the warmth and affection of our own family, to cultivate their gentle and sociable nature. We highly commit ourselves to the well-being of our puppies. We go above and beyond to give them the best possible start in life. From a meticulously tailored diet to regular veterinary care, our puppies receive comprehensive health care to ensure optimal growth and development. We understand the importance of early socialization, so we expose our puppies to various experiences, sights, and sounds, helping them blossom into confident and adaptable companions. Choosing a Golden Retriever puppy from Family Affair Puppies means selecting a lifelong companion who embodies love, loyalty, and companionship. Stop Here if you are looking for Golden Retrievers on sale! Our experienced and knowledgeable team will work to assist you throughout the process, providing guidance and support at every step. We believe that the relationship between a puppy and its new family is a sacred bond, and we take immense pride in facilitating that connection. Adding an adorable Golden Retriever pup will bring so much joy to your family. Discover the extraordinary joy of owning a Family Affair Puppies Golden Retriever and experience a lifetime of cherished memories and unwavering devotion. Showing 1—12 of 58 results.

Lolli here… Did someone say chocolate? I live for chocolate, but not just any chocolate will do. When I was a kid growing up in California, chocolate meant Sees Candy I suppose if I looked closely, I would find that my mom was rather obsessed. We would get Sees candies for every holiday, and frequently when we stopped at the mall. My childhood was filled with Sees, and to this day I can still identify many of their chocolate truffles simply by their shape, color, and design. Of course, I always keep my eyes open for my favorites, like the Scotchmallow creamy caramel on the bottom, rich honey marshmallow on top, covered in dark chocolate perfection or the classic dark chocolate Bordeaux a creamy brown sugar center covered in dark chocolate and sprinkles. We would always hand-pick a box of chocolates and fill it to the rim with our favorite variety. So when I was offered the chance to review an 8 oz. Silver Box Chocolate Assortment, I jumped at the opportunity. My mom still mails me at least one box a year. The Silver Box is the perfect size for me except the kids insisted I share with them! With 15 pieces of chocolate in the 8 ounce box, it will still enough for my family of 7 to have two pieces of chocolate each. Enter to win Use the Rafflecopter below to enter this giveaway. The more ways you enter, the better your chances are of winning. Polar Bear Paws are filled with salty roasted peanuts and soft buttery caramel, all coated in sweet white chocolate. Perfect for the holidays! This post may contain affiliate links. Please read my disclosure policy. I am usually a fan of the candies that have milk chocolate and caramel love the Patties and Pecan Buds but over the recent years I have branched out and started trying new things chocolates like Polar Bear Paws. These Polar Bear Paws have creeped into my Christmas box as one of my new favorites. The sweet and salty combo of the peanuts paired with the soft caramel and white chocolate these white melting wafers work great for candy making is a dream come true! Polar Bear Paws are quite simple to make. You just mix some peanuts with melted caramel, spoon it onto a parchment paper lined baking sheet , refridgerate to let it set, and then dip it in white chocolate. Is there a type of candy that you get in your stocking each year? It melts well and easily and tastes so good. Small Cookie Scoop — I love using this little cookie scoop for making candy. It helps create the perfect bite size treats that are all uniform in size. Silpat Mats — These are great for cookies and candy making. They make the process so much easier and clean up so much faster.