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Clean Accidents Properly Mini poodles should poop at least once a day. The exact number of visits to the bathroom can be anywhere between 1 and 5 as it is dependent on several factors. Dogs are a creature of routine and will stick to their schedule in all aspects of life. This means that they will eat, sleep, and poop at the same time every day. Hence, you need to make their timetable and follow it strictly to avoid unwanted accidents. It will also help you to potty train your dog because you will be prepared. Most owners will need weeks to potty train their pups. However, a slight variation can be observed based on your experience level and the breed you adopted. Poodles are known to be a little stubborn so they might take some extra time, especially with new owners. Your dog will soon understand the training and learn to behave properly. How to Potty Train Mini Poodles? Adopted a new poodle puppy and worried about housetraining your little friend? Read on to get detailed instructions about potty training mini poodles. This is because poodles can recognize patterns and will set themselves accordingly. This routine will make the training a lot easier because you will be able to predict when your canine friend needs to go. It will allow you to take them outside before an accident could happen. Poodles give away certain signs to show that they need to poop. For example, walking in circles and sniffing the ground are the most common ones. Take Your Dog Outside You will need to guide your dog outside every hours unless a routine is set. If not, you should take them back immediately and re-schedule the trip to the toilet after 30 minutes. This practice must be repeated for a few days so that a pattern could be established. This will help the poodle to learn faster and follow the rule. Appreciate the Good Work Positive reinforcement is one of the most effective strategies to train a dog. You can also offer a treat as a reward. It will quicken the learning process because your pup will have a motivation to repeat the behavior. Other than the basic training steps, some additional tips can prove quite handy. Some of these guidelines are discussed below. Use a Verbal Cue Dogs can learn things quicker when they can associate sounds with actions. However, you should have a unique word for each instruction to avoid any confusion. Therefore, all the family members must use the same cue for housebreaking to help your mini poodle. You should use a short phrase and it must be something that can be said in public. This will strengthen their muscles and increase their limit to hold. You can use the crate when you are expecting long hours at work. Give Your Poodle Sufficient Time Some dogs eliminate as soon as they reach the spot while others can take a few minutes to poop. Hence, you should wait for a few minutes before bringing your pup back inside. Clean Accidents Properly Accidents can be minimized but they will happen, especially during the training days. You will need enzymatic cleaners because canines have a very powerful sense of smell. They will be able to smell something fishy even if everything looks clean. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Maintain this schedule for at least three weeks before decreasing the number of potty breaks. Establishing good habits takes time, but consistency will teach your pup to trust and depend on you. Use a Leash Using a leash during potty training kills two birds with one stone. But, you can also use these short sessions to reinforce leash training by giving treats for staying close, not pulling, and for walking in a straight line. Pro tip: Even if you have a fenced-in backyard, teach your dog to go potty along the fence line or near bushes. Pooping in low-foot traffic areas will save you and houseguests from stepping in poop in the future. While praise is a reward in itself your dog just wants to make you happy, after all , treats are an excellent motivator. Take your pup to a dog-friendly indoor place. Common dog-friendly locales include: Pet stores Farm supply and feed stores Breweries and wineries Make sure to bring clean-up supplies in the event of an accident poop bags, paper towels, and Clorox wipes. Let your pup relieve themselves outside before you go inside, walk your pup around the store while reinforcing and rewarding good leash behavior , and take them back outside just in time for another potty break. Plus, you can get in some valuable leash training and socialization time. A chocolate Toy Poodle eating from a ceramic bowl Potty Pads are Your Friend During the first few weeks of puppy parenthood, accidents are inevitable. In the meantime, place potty pads in strategic locations around the house. Regular treats can be high-calorie, and even cut into small pieces, they can still be pretty calorie-dense. Create and Maintain a Safe Space Before you bring your pup home for the first time, make sure they have a safe space to sleep, get comfortable, eat, and play with their toys in peace. Provide treats for going inside, and begin closing the door for short periods to acclimate them to the space. This early reinforcement is critical for: Reinforcing that their crate is a safe space That being alone is okay Start small: Leave your pup in their safe space for five minutes three times per day and at bedtime on the first day. Repeat this for a second day, and increase the sessions by five minutes every other day until your dog can calmly and without accidents stay in its crate for an hour. But, the time spent is worth every minute: After a few weeks of intensive training, your pup will be a seasoned master of outside potty breaks! My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Learn more » Bringing home a new poodle, whether an adult or a puppy, is an exciting and life-changing adventure. Potty training is a long process that requires patience and commitment. The key to successfully housebreaking your new puppy is positive reinforcement and consistency. With a little help from your friends here at Hepper, your poodle can be fully potty trained in just a few months. Keep reading to find our tips on how to make the potty training process as easy as possible for both you and your pooch. Before 12 weeks, puppies are still developing the muscles they need to hold their urine and feces. After your poodle reaches 3 months of age, you can increase the intervals to the same number of hours as their age in months. Your goal for potty training should be to go above and beyond by instilling in them the importance of eliminating in a designated area. Choose somewhere in your yard where your pup can feel safe and somewhere that will be accessible in all seasons. The corner of your lot by the fence might be okay in the summer, but will your poodle want to wade through the snow to get there in the winter? Take them to the same spot every time you take them outside to go potty. Put your dog on a leash whenever you take them outside to the bathroom. Reward, Never Punish Praise and rewards go a long way with any animal. While praise and words of encouragement are rewards themselves, treats are one of the best training tools you should have in your potty training arsenal. When your poodle eliminates in the appropriate place, offer praise and a reward immediately. You can also begin implementing clicker training at this point by marking the positive action urination or defecation with a click and then a treat. Punishment is never an acceptable training method. Outdated techniques recommend hitting your dog with a newspaper, raising your voice at them and telling them how bad they are, or rubbing their face in their own urine or defecation. Dogs do not associate these harmful behaviors with doing something wrong. All punishment does is teach your puppy to be afraid of you. You may not be able to smell the remains with your human nose, but you can best bet your pup can. These can be purchased from any pet store and will be your best friend as you wade through the challenges that potty training a puppy can present. You can even try creating your own at home with ingredients you probably already have on hand, like white vinegar and baking soda. Not only does it permanently remove the very worst smells and stains yes, everything you can imagine! Click here to get yourself a bottle. Approach Potty Pads Carefully Potty pads can be a useful potty training tool in some situations. Allowing your puppy to use a potty pad inside your home can cause confusion about where it is appropriate to eliminate, dragging out the potty training process. If you must use potty pads, designate one area of your home where your puppy can relieve itself and put the pads there. You might put down several pads at first but then begin to reduce the number you lie down as your puppy gets used to this area being their spot to eliminate. Make sure you take them to the potty pads often to help them connect the dots that they are to be used for peeing and pooping. Constant Supervision Constant supervision is one of the essential parts of successful potty training. Some dogs will be able to hold it longer than others, and some will need to go to the bathroom whenever they play or get too excited. The most common signs your dog needs to pee or poop include: Sniffing around. Poodle Puppy House Training Overview While housebreaking a puppy may feel like a huge obstacle that is time-consuming at best and an undertaking that may fail at worst, there are definitely things that you can do to set your Poodle puppy up for success for potty training. There are 2 main elements: Having a clear plan in mind that will encourage a pup to learn quickly Having reasonable expectations based on the age of your Poodle In this section, we will go over all of the important steps for effective and fast training. Age to House Train This is most certainly not something that you will want to put off. Whether you have a brand-new Poodle puppy or an older, adopted dog that needs to learn, it is best to begin right away. Every day that this is not taught, is another day that the dog has wrong information about what to do and this just in and of itself will make housebreaking harder. Keep in mind that new puppies should not be brought outside to public areas or even your yard if there is a chance that other dogs have been there until the full rounds of puppy vaccinations are complete. Each vet schedule is slightly different; however, in general this is done by about the 4 month mark. If you are not sure, check with your vet. Having a Housebreaking Plan It's not uncommon for a puppy to pee or have a bowel movement with very little warning. And without a plan in place, this is when you'll see owners scrambling and picking up the pup while he dribbles urine as he's being carried out the door. While you will not catch every accident, you really will have much better success when you and all members of the family have a clear potty training plan in place. We would suggest reviewing what is needed, obtaining all of the necessities to be properly prepped, and then beginning. What is Needed Before You Begin There are a few things that you will need in order for housebreaking to be successful: 1 A supervision method. This is vital. Puppies or dog that have free rein in the house will be exceptionally hard to train. When you are home and are able to have your Poodle right by your side, use the tethering method. This means that your Poodle will be wearing a harness not a collar, since this can cause neck injury and will be on leash. The leash should be short and it should have a soft-looped handle, so that you can weave this through your belt loop or slip it over your wrist. When you are not home, or if you are home but cannot keep your Poodle near you, you'll need to keep your puppy or dog in a defined, secure area. Crates are not recommended; these are terribly confining and can cause a dog to feel both physically and emotionally stressed. Furthermore, they do not help with housebreaking; a dog will pee and poo when they need to. Gating off an entire room is also not recommended. This is too large of an area to do really do anything, and therefore there will still be pee and poo everywhere. One of the best methods is to use an indoor canine playpen. These are sturdy, open-top pens that allow a Poodle to move around, play, have all his favorite belongings food, water, toys, bed , but also keep messes contained. As a side note, these are great for separation anxiety, as they offer a secure 'den' that keeps all of a Poodle's aids right by them. And, these are perfect for the teething phase to keep a Poodle puppy from chewing apart the house. Recommended playpens to help with house training are below. These can be found with or without doors, and range from 24" ideal for toy and miniature Poodles to 48" better for standards, especially if continued to be used as the puppy grows. If you do not see the images, try a refresh. And on mobile, you may need to turn your screen horizontal to see all 4. Giving a Poodle incentive to do something applies to potty training, perhaps, more than it does with any other single action. Once something is a learned behavior, it become automatic though it is still nice to reinforce good behavior now and again. For housebreaking to happen quickly, you need to 1 give super-happy praise and simultaneously 2 offer the right type of reward. The training treat should be: New - It should not be something that you give to your Poodle for regular snacks. If you've found a great, all-natural and healthy snack that you'd like to keep giving, see if it comes in a different flavor. Small - House training treats need to be small. A puppy needs immediate satisfaction, and you cannot achieve this with something that a dog needs to sit down to chew on. Extra flavorful - It should be appealing to a Poodle sense of smell and sense of taste, offering a burst of flavor that will encourage the desire for more. And 'more' can only happen when the Poodle goes to the bathroom in the right area. Below are our top recommended training treats. And on mobile, you may need to turn the screen horizontal to see all 4. Dogs that are simply brought 'outside' for bathroom needs rarely have a good, clear understanding of what is expected. If they are out there long enough, they may very well go to the bathroom. However, your goal should be going above this and instilling the full concept of having one area for urination and elimination needs. Choose the area wisely; what may seem like a great spot in the summer may not work well in the winter. The bathroom area should be close to the home, not a spot that is used for anything else play area, gardening, etc. Within the chosen area, allow your Poodle to choose the exact spot that he prefers. Dogs that have a choice learn much faster and are more eager to follow the rules. It is best to stand in the middle of the area with your puppy on a 6 to 8 foot leash. Allow him to circle around and, sniff. Some will then need time for the bladder to relax or for the bowel muscles to push out stool. Since young puppies have weak bladder and bowel muscles, they can often pee or poo with very little warning. Whatever you need in order to bring your Poodle outside should be ready at the exit door. This will include a pair of shoes, an appropriate coat or jacket depending on the weather, clothing for your Poodle - should there be a need, an umbrella in case it is raining, a leash and even a book or magazine to thumb though while you wait. For the times that you are home, you will want to bring your Poodle to the designated area at the following times: First thing in the morning Any time right after the puppy wakes up from a nap Every 2 hours for a 2 month old, every 3 hours for a 3 month old, every 4 hours for a 4 month old, etc. It would certainly make things easier if dogs understood what we were saying when we spoke full sentences after they did something that we didn't approve of. However, puppies that are rewarded for good deeds and quietly forgiven for accidents are able to pick up what the owner wishes for without any scolding. Please remember that you want your Poodle to respect you, not fear you. And while it may feel good to release a bit of steam if you find a puddle of pee, yelling or acting frustrated will only confused and stress a puppy that really has no idea why you are upset. Dogs learn best when they can associate a word with an action. So, you'll want everyone in the house to be in agreement as to which word s will be used for housebreaking. It's best to keep it short, and have it be something that you do not feel uncomfortable saying in public. You will use this as you head outside 'Do you need to go potty? While some puppies will instantly pee or poo, others need time. Owners that only give the pup only a few minutes may have trouble with the training. Since 5 minutes can feel like 20 if you are bored, cold or otherwise uncomfortable or antsy, plan ahead. Have an outdoor chair located right in the middle of the bathroom area and plan ahead to check your mail or email during these times. It is recommended to give the puppy a good 15 minutes and if you just know that a bowel movement is due, give it .While on this note, one of the biggest problems that owners encounter is when a puppy won't pee in his spot no matter how long there, but will pee as soon as being brought back inside. A good tip to fix this, should it happen often, is hold him after you come back inside he won't pee on you ; then head back out in about 10 minutes. While young Poodles need to be taken out often see above , if they are kept on that schedule as they mature, they will not have an opportunity to learn to hold their needs and bladder and bowel muscles will not strengthen as they otherwise would. As you puppy grows older, stretch out the periods of time in between taking him out. While the carpet may look clean after you scrub it with dish soap and a sturdy brush, soap does not eliminate enzymes that are in urine. And those lingering enzymes you won't smell these, but your Poodle will essentially scream 'This is the bathroom area! So, all areas that have been pee'd or poo'd on need to be cleaned with an enzyme cleanser. Puppies are terrific at making whining noises and barking in the middle of the night, without letting us know if they need to go to the bathroom or are just bored and wanting some attention. If a puppy pees and poos before bedtime, it is far more likely that he wants your company as opposed to having a real need. However, it is always best to be safe than sorry. The important element is that this be done in a very serious manner without any play or other interaction. Keep lights low, bring your Poodle puppy directly to his spot, wait the allotted time without speaking other than praise if the deed is done and then bring him right back. A puppy will soon learn that barking for attention at night does not bring about any interaction that would seem worthy of making a fuss but that alerting you in regard to bathroom needs does result in praise and a quick treat. It's a common occurrence for owners to bring their Poodle for a walk in the neighborhood and just let the puppy go to the bathroom along the way. However, this is a missed opportunity for a house training lesson. Bring your Poodle to his spot first and then bring him for his exercise. Housebreaking Exact Steps This is exactly how to bring your Poodle out, what to say, and what to do: 1. Head outside with your Poodle on leash and harness, saying your chosen phrase Let's go potty , and with the training treats in a small zipped plastic bag, kept in your pocket. Lead your Poodle directly to the designated bathroom area, repeating the phrase. Stand in the middle of the designated area, allowing your Poodle to roam within the diameter and sniff around. Allow 10 to 15 minutes. If your Poodle pees or poos, without completely distracting your pup, mark the action with your chosen word said in a happy tone, You're going potty. During this time, be reaching for the training treat. As soon as your Poodle is done, bend to his level, give great praise in a super-enthusiastic voice Good potty, oh, you are such a good dog! If your Poodle had a bowel movement, and you believe that there may be a urination need, remain outside for an additional 5 minutes. A Final Word While you will need a bit of patience during this time, with a good plan and lots of enthusiasm from you, your Poodle puppy should be completely house trained with a few months. After you feel that he is fully trained, be sure to still bring him out often enough, and continue to offer praise to reinforce the lessons that have been learned. How to Stop a Poodle From Marking - Both males and females may display territorial marking, and this is a separate issue than housebreaking. Learn why dogs do this, and exactly how to stop it. The Best Type of Toys for a Poodle - If you think of toys as tools, you'll see that certain ones can help with a range of issues. See the top toys for teething, treat-release, chewing, boredom, and as aids when home alone. Giving a Poodle a Bath - Great tips and advice for successful baths that are beneficial to skin and coat. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Potty breaks Alone time Of course, potty breaks have priority on your list at this time, but routines and schedules for the other things will also help with that. Image Credit: Pixabay 2. Purchase a Leash Before you begin training your Poodle friend, you should purchase a leash and harness that will fit your pet. Using a leash during your puppy training accomplishes two things at once. If all goes according to plan within about 3 weeks of taking your Poodle to their designated potty spots, you should no longer have a problem. Praise, of course, is easy. Treats can be a bit trickier because you first have to figure out what your pet likes best. In most cases, however, your Poodle will be happy with a dog treat or even a dog toy to be given for good behavior. Never yell at, hit, or otherwise demean your Poodle for having accidents in the house or even for not following commands. Remember, your dog is just a baby, and yelling at it is counterproductive and cruel. Image Credit: Linas T, Shutterstock 4. Test Away from Home Once you begin to have accident-free days and at least a few accident-free nights, take your puppy to a friend to see how well it does. Make sure you take poop bags, wipes, and paper towels with you to clean up after your puppy if it has an accident. It permanently removes the very worst stains and smells you can imagine and makes clean up a breeze. Click here to order a bottle today. Crate training works well for older Poodles. When you take the dog outside, wait with it to see if it uses the bathroom. Remember to offer tons of praise and treats for a job well done. However, in the excitement of getting the dog settled into its new home, it could be easy to forget to set a routine and start training your new friend to potty outside. Following the steps above will ensure that your Poodle puppy is properly trained and will continue to use the bathroom outside after your strict routine are adjusted to something less rigid. In the meantime, you can use a crate, dog pen, or puppy pads to help manage where your puppy goes to the bathroom in the house. Of course, if you have an adult Poodle that needs potty training, you can start right off with training them outside. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! These include: Choosing suitable treats. So, make sure to select a treat that they enjoy. Finally, you should ensure the treat is small to avoid your puppy putting on the pounds. If possible, try to return home before your Poodle should have to go to the bathroom to avoid forcing them to go inside. So, whenever you take your Poodle outside for potty training, teach them a command to encourage them to go. Then, let them sniff around the area. Step 3: Praise Your Poodle If your Poodle ends up peeing or pooping, gently say a word or phrase in a positive, upbeat voice that you want them to associate with the action. Just make sure not to get too excited when you praise them. So, the moment your Poodle finishes, praise them with lots of pets and a treat. Step 5: Spend More Time Outside An outdoor-loving Poodle will soon catch on if you bring them back into the house the moment they finish peeing or pooping. So, avoid this situation by playing with them outside after they go to the bathroom. Take Them Outside Often No one ever said potty training is convenient since you should take your Poodle puppy outside every two hours during the day until they get older and develop a stronger bladder. Furthermore, you should take them to their designated potty area as soon as they wake up, after eating, and before you go to bed. A DIY balcony porch potty 2. So, try your best to feed your Poodle at the same time every day to avoid accidents in your house. Handle Accidents With Grace Accidents in the house are a natural part of potty training. So, when it happens, the worst thing you can do is point to the mess and yell at your Poodle. Instead, show your dog to their outdoor relief area and clean up the mess with a cleaner made to hide dog scents. Using a scent hiding product is crucial, given that Poodles are more likely to pee or poop in places that smell as such. Safe to use around pets and children. No hazardous propellants, no residue left behind. Not just the stain, but the stink. From stinky yellow pet urine and feces to vomit and other organic spills, our professional.This spray contains natural enzymes that are activated on contact with odors and stains, feeding on ammonia crystals and organic matter.We earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Others will get distracted easily by the sights and sounds of the outdoors, requiring more time. The important thing is to give your Poodle time to muster up peeing or pooping. Ideally, you should wait 15 minutes. However, if you know your Poodle probably needs to poop, waiting up to 20 minutes is reasonable. Why do Poodles shake? In some cases, it might be a legitimate call because they have to go to the bathroom. In other cases, they might want food or cuddles. If your Poodle whines in the middle of the night, you should take them outside to go to the bathroom. However, unlike during the day when you should play with them after they go, you should bring them into the house immediately after they relieve themselves. The amount of time it takes to potty train your Poodle depends on their age. A part of this is because they have a stronger bladder, so they can go for longer periods without having an accident. You, as a dog owner, also have a lot to do with how long it takes your Poodle to learn to use the outdoors as their restroom. Kindness and consistency are key to success. Using positive reinforcement techniques is one of the best things you can do for your Poodle during the training process. With lots of kind words and tasty treats as an incentive, you can expect your Poodle to soon start using the outdoors as their permanent restroom. Similar Posts.

View All Articles in Labradoodle Breeders Location Depending on your geographical location, you can expect to pay more money in certain areas. Naturally, the Labradoodle price is usually tied to the overall cost of living in that area. Of course, you might be tempted to adopt a puppy from a different state. Any of those can add a few hundred dollars to your total Labradoodle price. Breeder Stock Another factor that influences the Labradoodle cost is breeding stock. Breeding different generations of Labradoodles requires a certain set of parent dogs. For example, F1 or first-generation Labradoodles are often less expensive than F1b or F1bb Labradoodles. See Also: Click the image Demand Needless to say, the high demand can also hike up the price of Labradoodles, especially in more populated areas like major cities. The best reputable breeders have waiting lists that filled 6 months in advance, sometimes even up to a year or two. This in turn means that breeders will charge higher rates to keep up with the demand while not overbreeding the mama dogs. Size, Color, and Coat Type Another thing you should keep in mind is that certain sizes, colors, and coat types can cost you some extra money. For instance, some breeders charge more for Mini Labradoodles compared to Standard Labradoodles. Usually, the most hypoallergenic Labradoodles are found in F1b, F1bb, F2b, and F2bb generations, which also require more genetic testing to achieve. See Also: Click the image Breeder Reputation Lastly, reputable breeders also charge premium rates for their Labradoodle puppies. Ethical, reputable breeders put a lot of time, money, and effort into breeding and raising healthy and well-rounded pups. All of this reflects in the Labradoodle price. Professional breeders have learned all about health and genetic testing. See Also: Click the image In addition to that, reputable breeders know the importance of early socialization , training, and other enrichment methods. Ethical breeders also follow breeding guidelines set by established organizations we mentioned above. Many of them are also affiliated with the organizations and continuously keep educating themselves on the best breeding practices. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting a puppy from a professional, ethical breeder? Of course, there are many backyard breeders who have the best intentions in mind and only want to share the joy of this adorable crossbreed. However, oftentimes, these breeders might not conduct all the necessary health and genetic testing on their breeding dogs. Nor can they provide proper health guarantees for their puppies. Additionally, many backyard breeders do not choose new homes for the puppies as carefully as professional breeders. When a litter is born, they just sell all the puppies on a first come first serve basis. How much are Labradoodles when adopting from a backyard breeder? Puppy Mills Finally, we have the worst of the bunch — puppy mills. Unfortunately, these breeders only work for their own financial gain. More often than not, they neglect the wellbeing of their breeding dogs and puppies. Beware of pet stores, as well, as they often source their puppies from puppy mills. Puppy mills usually overbreed their mama dogs and keep them on tight schedules to produce more and more puppies. Meanwhile, the dogs and puppies are kept in unsafe and unclean environments, often in small cages and kennels. Moreover, these pups often come with serious health conditions. How much does a Labradoodle cost when adopting from a puppy mill? Above all, we urge you to avoid these breeders at all costs. As a general rule of thumb, larger, Standard Labradoodles require more calories per day compared to smaller, Mini and Medium Labradoodles. All of them are tried, tested, and recommended by Doodle owners. Training Training and early socialization both play a key role in raising well-rounded Labradoodles. Vet Visits One of the most expensive parts of owning a dog is taking your pup to regular vet visits and wellness checks. And to be prepared for those unexpected vet visits, we recommend you choose a trustworthy pet insurance company. During the first year, you should make sure that your puppy is up to date with all of its vaccinations and preventative care for worms, fleas, ticks , and heartworm. Grooming You might already know that Labradoodles are high-maintenance when it comes to grooming and coat care. Time Investment Like any other pet, Labradoodles require a lot of time and effort from your part. Other Costs In addition to all the Labradoodle costs we mentioned above, there are other everyday items that your dog will need. These include food and water bowls, dog beds, dog crate, a collar and a leash, toys and chew toys, and poop bags. So, you know with absolute certainty that the Labradoodle is the right pup for you. But how can you find quality Labradoodle breeders? As fellow Doodle owners, we know how difficult it can be to find ethical, reputable breeders in your area. Why Are Labradoodles Expensive? Ethical Labradoodle breeders charge higher prices for their pups, as they carefully screen the breeding dogs through extensive health and genetic testing. In addition to that, they provide their clients with genetic health guarantees and implement various forms of enrichment methods when rearing the puppies. How Much Does A Labradoodle Cost: Final Thoughts Adopting a dog is not just a huge emotional commitment, but also requires you to think whether or not your finances allow you to take care of another living being. Hopefully, this article has managed to answer all of your questions about the Labradoodle cost of adoption and the ongoing costs throughout their lifetime. Avoid making the mistake of choosing the wrong Doodle temperament for your family, lifestyle, or current living situation. We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. If you are thinking that a Labradoodle might be a perfect addition to your family, you are right. They are friendly and intelligent dogs, and many have a low-shedding coat, which means they can be a good choice for families dealing with allergies or asthma. But exactly how much will it cost you to bring a Labradoodle home? The cost of a Labradoodle actually varies significantly depending on the specific dog and where you get it. We will go through all the things you are likely to have to pay for within the first six months of bringing the puppy home, and what you can expect to spend on the care and upkeep of your Labradoodle throughout their lives. The Cost Of Adopting A Labradoodle How much it will cost you to bring a Labradoodle into your household will vary significantly depending on where you get the puppy from. Whether you are looking for a standard Labradoodle or one of the small breeds that are the result of breeding a Labrador retriever with a miniature or toy poodle, also makes a difference, with the smaller dogs being more expensive. Why Are Labradoodles So Expensive? Labradoodles tend to be expensive because they are such desirable dogs. They are a mix of a Labrador retriever and a poodle, designed to be the perfect service dogs. Labrador retrievers have long been known as excellent working dogs because they are intelligent and motivated, which means they can be trained to complete the required tasks, and they also have a friendly and loving personality, so they know how to behave in public. This is essential when service dogs are able to enter public spaces that will be full of people, children, and other animals. However, the problem with Labradors is that they shed a lot. This means not only that they can be challenging to clean up after at home, but that they can be a health hazard in restaurants and places that need to maintain sanitary conditions, such as hospitals. Enter the poodle. Instead, the hair gets caught up in their coat and needs to be brushed out regularly. They are also highly intelligent, even more so than Labradors, which means they have a great ability to learn new tasks. They are also very loving, having been bred as companions, though they are a bit more wary of strangers than Labradors are. So the idea is that you combine a Labrador retriever and a poodle to get a Labradoodle, which has all the characteristics to work as a service dog and also has a low-shedding coat. But, since breeders are often catering to a specialist market, they do need to be careful to control for the characteristics they want. They need to be very careful to breed for the low-shedding coat since a Labradoodle naturally has an equal chance of inheriting a high-shedding Labrador coat and a friendly personality, as well as intelligence and an ability to learn. This is a lot of work for the breeder, so they charge more. The smaller pups cost even more because they are harder to breed due to the size difference between Labradors and small poodles. However, if you do come across a Labradoodle that does have the high-shedding coat of a Labrador, you might be able to get them a bit cheaper, as they will be harder to sell as service dogs. But be warned! It is almost impossible to tell whether a Labradoodle will have a low-shedding or high-shedding coat until they are at least 12 weeks old. With so much variation in the price of Labradoodles, it can be hard to know whether you are getting a good deal, or if you are being ripped off. Below are the main factors that affect the individual prices of Labradoodles and will push the price above or below the standard. These factors should help you determine whether a Labradoodle is being priced appropriately. Location Yes, just as housing costs more or less depending on where you live, the same is true of Labradoodles and all other dogs. Size As we have already said, size makes a big difference, and small Labradoodles that are the result of breeding between a Labrador retriever and either a miniature or toy poodle are significantly more expensive. This is because they are harder to breed, and they are also highly desirable pups. A mini Labradoodle can cost twice as much as a standard-sized version. Coat Type Labradoodles have three different coat types, which are classified as flat, wavy, or curly. Flat coats are most like the high-shedding coats of the Labrador, while curly coats are most like the low-shedding coats of poodles. Wavy coats fall somewhere in between. It will be no surprise to learn that curly coats are the most popular, and that dogs with these coats are more expensive. You might get a Labradoodle with a flat coat at a discount because they are shedders. This is easier to predict if you are breeding two Labradoodles that both already have the desired coat characteristics, but is very difficult to determine with first-generation Labradoodles. Coat Color Labradoodles come in a much wider range of colors than Labrador retrievers, and many of the more exotic coat colors are highly prized. Dogs like the Phantom Labradoodle and the Tuxedo Labradoodle are very coveted, and this can add significantly to the price of the dog. Breeder Reputation The fact of the matter is, when you are buying a dog from a breeder, you are putting a lot of faith into the assumption that everything they are telling you is true. They are the ones telling you that the parent pups have undergone extensive health screenings and that they have controlled for desirable characteristics. For this reason, reputation is very important among breeders, and you should always do a little bit of research on your breeder before purchasing. If you do find a good breeder with a reputation for producing happy and healthy pups, you can expect to pay more. They are at the top of the market, so they can afford to demand more money. Plus, good practice is usually more expensive to deliver. Additional Expenses When Buying A Labradoodle Puppy There are other expenses related to bringing a new puppy home beyond the price of the puppy itself. When you but a Labradoodle puppy from a reputable breeder, the price usually includes: Initial vaccination shots. A close up face image of Labradoodle puppy Max The price depends on many factors and can vary from breeder to breeder. While this might seem like a hefty price to pay for a puppy, the low prices that you find on social media or other ads are usually from puppy mills that try to over-breed these beloved animals in inappropriate and unethical ways. Low-quality living conditions notwithstanding, puppies from such places have a high probability of suffering from ailments and issues caused by genetic mutations occurring from rapid breeding. Labradoodle costs around the world In Australia the average prices for non-shedding Labradoodles ranged from AUD. There were some niche breeders that charged much more. Depending on how unique the coat color is, the price will vary. Parti-colored Labradoodles like Tuxedo Labradoodle or Phantom Labradoodle cost significantly more than a solid-colored cream, black, or gold Labradoodle. Sometimes, depending on your location, you may have to shell out extra dollars if you specifically want a multi-colored Labradoodle. Coat texture is another influencing factor. Shiny, sleek coats are more attractive and an indication of a superior bloodline. Hence, they are going to cost more. Curly and wavy-haired Labradoodles will be more expensive than straight-haired ones as they are almost non-shedding and hypoallergenic. Blue-eyed Labradoodles can be even more expensive, owing to their rarity and beauty. Labradoodle Size As they are crossbred, there are no specific breeding standards for Labradoodles. Most breeders classify Labradoodle puppy sizes as standard, medium, and miniature. Toy, teacup, miniature, and maxi are some other terms used to describe the size of Labradoodle dogs. The smaller the puppy size, the higher its price. This is because of the increased demand for smaller-sized dogs. Some breeders have their own standards and classifications when it comes to dog size and weight. While some breeders consider pound dogs as petite, others see them as miniature. Micro and petit are other terms that are used, both interchangeably and independently by different breeders. Usually, petit dogs fall in the pounds range, and micro dogs under 10 pounds. Age Typically, most people prefer buying a young puppy rather than a full-grown dog. Hence, prices are higher for puppies than dogs. For instance, a 6-month-old puppy is going to cost less than a 6-week-old one. A rich Apricot coat Labradoodle at the groomer. Generation Type Another determining factor is the percentage of each parent breed in the Labradoodle puppy. F1B generations have a purebred Poodle and an F1 generation Labradoodle as their parents. While this is a rarer generation, they are cheaper as their chances of being hypoallergenic is lesser than that of others. Generally, F1B Labradoodles are the most expensive generation as they have the highest chance of being hypoallergenic. Location and Demand The Labradoodle breed is one of the most popular crossbreed dogs, a close second to the Goldendoodles. This has significantly increased their value and demand. Dog breeders of bigger cities will have a large client pool and higher earnings. They usually have a hard time keeping up with the demands and hence have to increase their price. Breeders from rural areas have comparatively lower demand and charge less for their puppies. Nevertheless, the demand for low-shedding, hypoallergenic dogs is high everywhere, regardless of the size and popularity of a place. While it might be cheaper to buy your Labradoodle puppy from a rural breeder, you might still have to beat your budget to travel the extra distance or to have the puppy transferred to you. Although the low prices advertised at puppy mills might be tempting, getting a Labradoodle puppy from a reputed breeder is always a better option. Besides being spayed, neutered, and vaccinated, puppies from reputed breeders will also be appropriately socialized. This will make it easier for them to adapt to their new home. Most reputable breeders establish their prices based on their experience, investment, knowledge, credentials, and reputation with previous customers. Some breeders even incorporate training from a young age, and some puppies are potty trained at just eight weeks old. Reputed breeders also have health certificates and genetic records of both parent dogs in place. These certificates are proof that your Labradoodle is in the best of health and hygiene. Other Costs Associated With Labradoodles The preliminary cost of a Labradoodle will be substantially less than the total expenses involved throughout its life. Additionally, you might have to spend more on training foods and treats. Grooming The grooming needs of Labradoodles may vary depending on the type and length of their coat. Although Labradoodles are almost hypoallergenic, they need regular brushing and bathing. Medical Costs Most crossbreed dogs are usually less prone to ailments and diseases. Their larger gene pool also reduces their risk of inheriting diseases. One of the most common health issues with Labradoodle is hip dysplasia. And the surgical procedure to fix this is expensive, which is especially necessary for older Labradoodles. Besides this, there are other health care costs like vaccinations and regular veterinarian check-ups Ohio State Veterinary School source. It safeguards you against any unforeseen situations that may arise in the future with regard to its health. Training and Boarding Costs Although Labradoodles are very intelligent and highly trainable, it is advisable to enroll them in a professional training program to ensure their all-round development. It also helps address their excessive barking and jumping, which is common in Labradoodles. Labradoodles are high-energy dogs that can turn destructive when left alone for a long time. So whenever you go on trips, you will have to leave them at a doggie care center. Can Labradoodles smile? Ideally, you should purchase an adjustable crate whose length you can adjust as and when your puppy grows. Labradoodles are highly energetic dogs who need toys to maintain their mental stimulation and to keep them from getting destructive due to boredom. You might also have to make a one-time investment on a good quality bed as they often tend to chew and scratch at it. Labradoodle Adoption Price While you may want to get your Labradoodle puppy from a shelter, the chances are slim as Labradoodles are highly sought-after breeds that are usually kept in tight breeding groups. This is usually done to cover the cost of medical and maintenance care. Adopting a puppy from a rescue shelter is a noble idea, but you must also prepare to deal with any possible future problems with their health and temperament, as rescue dogs usually have health and behavior problems. My Miniature Labradoodle Max wearing a stylish rain coat Avoiding Disreputable Breeders The pet business has now emerged as one of the biggest industries worldwide. Unfortunately, this has also birthed unethical puppy mills, backyard breeders, and online pet stores, who have little to no knowledge about raising and nurturing puppies. Often, unsuspecting pet lovers trying to save some money fall prey to these tricks and end up with an unhealthy puppy with health and temperamental issues. This leads to them spending a lot of money on the treatment and maintenance of these puppies down the road. So, is there a way to distinguish between good and bad breeders and avoid paying exorbitant prices by accidentally supporting these puppy mills? Start by doing plenty of research on the breeder and consciously avoid backyard breeders, pet stores, and online stores. Additionally, look out for these red flags: Unusually low-priced puppies. The breeder refuses to show the living conditions of their dogs and puppies. Adult dogs are kept in harsh conditions and small cages. Puppies seem reserved, edgy, and nervous around people. The breeder has no health certificates of puppies and its parent dogs. Breeder refuses to provide any paperwork. Here are some standards and conventions practiced by trustworthy breeders: They breed puppies indoors and will take equal care of the parent dogs. They offer ample space and freedom to their puppies and dogs to run, play, sleep, and do everything they desire. They periodically clean and groom the dogs. They promote a healthy bonding of puppies with their mother and littermates. They try to gauge if you are capable of raising a particular dog breed. They offer tips and tricks on puppy care and maintenance. They have health and vaccination certificates from a licensed veterinarian. They offer proper legal protection like providing a guarantee for puppy replacement after around 1. Going through previous testimonials and customer reviews is another way of determining the credibility of a breeder. Find out how long the breeder has been in the business. Have a proper conversation with them and get all your puppy-related questions answered before you decide to get your puppy from them. With their love and affection, these bundles of joy can not only turn your bad days into wonderful ones, their high intelligence and alert minds also make them great guard dogs. Before purchasing a Labradoodle puppy, make sure to research the breeder and never get puppies from breeders who cannot provide health certificates for the puppies and their parents. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. While this is not actually required, it is highly suggested since it covers vet bills and emergency treatments for injuries. Most of these are optional except for emergency treatments. Owners who need service dogs should be prepared to spend more on special training classes. Dog Walking: Getting a Labradoodle means you get an active dog. For times when you cannot take your dog for a walk or play with them, you can hire a dog walker instead. Medical Emergencies: Expenses for medical emergencies are preferably avoided but are to be prepared for anyway. Accessories and Clothes: If you enjoy dressing up your Labradoodle, you would also want to buy different clothes and accessories for them. There are a lot of places that sell these, so you can either save or splurge. Again, these expenses can arise at specific points in time and can be optional. They also depend on you and how you want to spend on your Labradoodle. You can actually look for this popular breed from breeders or rescue shelters. Given that Labradoodles are well-loved and highly coveted, the chances of you finding this breed are pretty high. Here are some reputable breeders where you can find Labradoodle puppies for sale: Blueberry Cottage Labradoodles — This reputable breeder was from Connecticut and is now based on a acre family farm in West Wisconsin. They specialize in standard-sized Labradoodles that are guaranteed to be in good health. They offer a two-year health guarantee against hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and other genetic conditions. You can visit their website to check for available pups. Interested buyers are assured that their puppies undergo proper health testing and screenings, as well as microchipping and vaccinations. Their pups are also socialized early and are subject to a weekly training program. They specialize in breeding mini and medium-sized Labradoodles. You can find more breeders in our article on the 10 best Labradoodle breeders that are based in different states. While browsing, be sure to read our puppy buying guide so you can safely buy your Labradoodle online. An alternative to shopping for a Labradoodle is to adopt one from shelters, rescues, or adoption sites. They have been trusted and have been working hard for Labradoodles since .You can visit their website to learn more about their adoption process and see the available Labradoodles looking for their forever homes. Doodle Rescue Collective, Inc. They are dedicated to protecting Labradoodles and educating owners and dog enthusiasts. Labs and More — This rescue organization based in San Diego, California, has rescued more than 12, dogs since .They rescue large dogs and mixed breeds, including Labradoodles. You can visit their website, where they have a guide before adopting for those interested. Head over to our 10 best Labradoodle rescues article to find even more options and increase your chances of finding a Labradoodle. You can also visit your local shelter to look for Labradoodles up for adoption. Money-Saving Tips for Labradoodle Owners Knowing that taking care of Labradoodles costs a significant amount, any Labradoodle owner would want to save a few bucks in any way they can. To help, we came up with some cost-effective ways to care for your pooch. Here are some ways to cut down on expenses for your Labradoodle: Groom your Labradoodle at home. While professional groomers can save you time and provide proper grooming thanks to their training and skills, there is no doubt that they can charge quite a bit. Learning how to do basic grooming yourself, especially since this hybrid has a low shedding coat, can surely save you some money. Grooming sessions at home can also serve as quality time with your canine companion. Make dog food yourself. Store-bought dog food and treats are convenient, but the cost adds up. You can try making dog food at home, instead. Not only does this allow you to control what exactly you are feeding your pet, but it can also be cheaper. Buy good-quality items. Getting items that are of good quality and durable can be more expensive at the time of purchase but will actually save you money in the long run. Take your Labradoodle for regular vet visits. Emergency treatments and procedures often cost more than regular vet visits and can help you avoid an unhealthy puppy. Knowing what items to invest in and what to avoid can significantly reduce the cost of owning a Labradoodle. A little creativity and strategizing will go a long way. The expenses for this designer breed are far from cheap. However, you should know that this is nothing out of the ordinary since many popular crossbreed dogs also have similar costs. If you are one of the many people interested in Labradoodles, I hope this guide has helped you decide whether owning one is worth all the investment. We would love to hear your thoughts and insights in the comments below! Owners of Labradoodles are also welcome to share their tips and experiences on the different Labradoodle costs. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. However, some pups exchange hands for even more, if they have something which makes them especially desirable examples of what that might be coming up! You may also see Labradoodle puppies advertised for far less. This should be a red flag. A good breeder spends a great deal of money to produce a healthy litter. The costs of breeding a healthy litter include: Health screening for the parents. Travel and accommodation to meet a suitable stud dog. Veterinary costs for mom and her litter. Extra food. Whelping supplies, such as a whelping box, heat mats, and bedding. Time off work to look after mom, and start socializing her puppies. Backyard breeders, puppy mills, and online sellers may offer puppies at bargain prices, but only by cutting their own costs first. So their puppies are more likely to leave home with inherited health problems that require expensive treatment later. Or with behavioral problems like separation anxiety or stranger-directed aggression, which are difficult or impossible to overcome. Lots of people are overwhelmed by the upfront cost of a well bred puppy. Adopting a dog from a shelter is one way to find a dog for less, but without supporting unethical breeding practices. And some regions even have dedicated rescue organizations which specialize in rehoming Labradoodles and other Poodle crosses. This is a much less expensive route and adoption fees often cover things like initial vaccinations and microchipping. Such as whether they carry any late-onset inherited diseases, or are reactive to certain triggers. What Factors Determine Labradoodle Cost? There are a number of factors which may make people willing to pay more for a Labradoodle. Breeder Good breeders are rarely in it for the money. Even if they sell their puppies for a more money than they spent on them, the profit divided by the number of hours they spent caring the dam and her litter works out in cents! All breeders have their own personal philosophy on pricing pups. They might have a reputation and a waiting list which means they can charge more than the competition. They might also charge highly to deter people from buying their puppies on impulse. Provided you ask politely, a reputable breeder will be happy to explain how they arrived at the cost of their puppies. But a breeder who refuses to discuss how they set their price at all may be attempting to cover up the fact that their puppies have been very poorly raised and are not worth the asking price. Breeding Stock Breeders who invest in meticulous health screening of their sire and dam may pass the cost of that onto their buyers, and they have every right to do so. Puppies from thoroughly health tested parents cost more upfront, but they are likely to cost less in lifetime veterinary fees. Labradoodle puppies from parents with show or field titles may also be advertised at higher prices. The puppies of Labradoodles that have been backcrossed with a purebred Poodle will have a greater chance of inheriting the Poodle coat. Other factors There are other things which might affect Labradoodle costs too. For example, in cities and urban areas, miniature Labradoodles might command higher prices than standard Labradoodles. Some factors have nothing to do with the dog at all. For example, many reputable breeders avoid producing litters around Christmas time to avoid buyers passing them on as gifts to other people, or buying them on impulse without really thinking it through. Low quality breeders on the other hand, tend to push their prices up at this time of year. The Cost of Owning a Labradoodle in the First Year Whether you go a shelter or a breeder, adoption fees and purchase price are only the beginning of what it costs to own a Labradoodle. The first year will typically be the most expensive because this is when most major expenses occur. Such as Having the dog spay or neutered. Training classes. Accessories like a crate, bedding, toys, collar and leash. Labradoodles have a high frequency of joint disorders such as hip and elbow dysplasia, which may require expensive monthly prescriptions to manage. Bringing a puppy into your life comes with the responsibility to keep him healthy and happy. From food to medical costs, from toys to grooming, there a number of regular expenses that come with owning a dog. Food is such an essential part of ensuring your dog is healthy and there is a wide range of commercial dog foods available. You can spend tens, or hundred of dollars per month! Always choose a good quality food that lists animal protein as the first ingredient and avoid brands that include meat by-products, fillers, and artificial ingredients that can cause gastrointestinal problems and allergic reactions. This article on feeding a Labradoodle puppy can guide you. Feeding your dog a healthy diet and ensuring an active dog like the Labradoodle gets enough exercise will go a long way to reducing medical costs. However, any dog can develop health issues that require treatment that can run into thousands of dollars. Health problems that the Labradoodle can be susceptible to include: Hip and elbow dysplasia. Our New Puppy Checklist gives you an easy way to keep track of items you already have and ones you still need to pick up. You will save you time, money, and loads of frustration…take my word for it! Get Your Copy Today! Everything that goes into making a good breeder adds value and factors into the price you pay. We recommend working with a quality breeder when getting a Labradoodle. We explain ways to identify reputable breeders and questions to ask in this article. Caring for the Puppies This goes beyond simply making sure the puppy has food and water. What kind of food are the puppies being fed? A good breeder will be able and willing to tell you this it also helps you prepare for bringing your puppy home. Puppies are like human babies — they are prone to getting sick early on. Smell the puppies! The puppies smelled clean and freshly bathed. Are the puppies receiving the proper vaccinations when they should be? Puppies have a schedule of preventive vaccination and immunizations they should be getting in the first year of their life. What about once you take the puppy home? Socialization and Stimulation Dr. This is so true! And it starts early on. From birth, the puppy should handled and all of their body parts touched paws, mouth, tail, stomach, ears, arms, and legs. This includes laying them on their back. Once a few weeks old, they should be getting exposed to people in a controlled environment our breeder has three kids, which are great puppy socializers. They should be exposed to different surfaces, noises, and encouraged to explore their surroundings, while not startling them too much or endangering them. Giving them this foundation makes training your puppy easier down the road and also makes them a much more adaptable pup. Be sure to head over to this article for valuable tips on continuing socialization after you bring your puppy home. Responsible Breeding Practices A quality breeder puts the overall well-being of their puppies far beyond the money they make from breeding. Get ready to fill out some paperwork! This goes back to their commitment to the overall well-being of the dogs they home. Visit this page to find a Labradoodle breeder near you. Quality Of The Breeding Stock Determining the quality of the breeder is pretty easy, while understanding the quality and genetics of the breeding stock takes a bit more research. Breeding Stock Genetics This part is expensive but is critical to the breeding process for Labradoodles, because certain health conditions often appear within the breed. If a breeder starts with a sire father and dam mother with poor genetics or disease and health problems, what effect will this have on their litter? This part is usually overlooked or neglected by non-reputable breeders because it involves costly genetic testing and screening done by organizations like the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals source. Our breeder offered an month replacement guarantee, which was really great see below. We checked the social media accounts of different breeders we were considering to see what others were saying. Talk to the breeder in advance. See how knowledgeable they are about the breed. Come with some good questions that you know the answers to, and compare their responses. Ask the breeder what all goes into the cost of their Labradoodles. Ask them what they do with the puppies regarding socialization. Related Questions: Should I visit breeders before making my decision to purchase a Labradoodle? We highly recommend that you schedule a visit to see any and all breeders you are considering getting a Labradoodle from. Will the breeder require a deposit for the puppy? They may also ask you to pay another portion of the total cost once the puppy is born, to help with costs of caring for them. Why are Labradoodles such a popular breed? Labradoodles are popular and highly regarded for many reasons, including their great personalities , family and allergy-friendly nature, and their low-to-no shed coats. After all, they do become part of the family, right? Grab your copy today! Related Posts:.

As a medium to large-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to fill out and reach their full size than smaller dog breeds. As a general rule, expect your Boxer to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. Keep in mind that this range is an estimate, so there are always exceptions. Image Source: Canva How big should a 6-month-old Boxer be? A 6-month-old male Boxer should weigh around 41 to 48 pounds, while a 6-month-old female Boxer will weigh about 39 to 44 pounds. According to Care. For a male Boxer puppy, this would be around 17 to 19 inches tall. Pro Tip: Check out this downloadable new puppy checklist covering topics like vaccination schedules, setting up the home for a new puppy, teething, veterinary visits, and more! How much bigger will my Boxer get? There are several ways to estimate how much bigger your Boxer will grow. If your Boxer is less than two years old, they are likely still growing. Some Boxers stop growing closer to 18 months, but many Boxers will continue to fill out in weight and body size until they are two years old. A puppy will rarely be larger than either parent, so this can give you a clearer idea of their maximum size. Do their paws look oversized compared to their legs and the rest of their body? This is a strong sign that your Boxer is still growing and filling out! What is the size of a full-grown Boxer? According to the American Kennel Club Official Boxer Standards , a full-grown male Boxer will stand around 23 to 25 inches tall, while a female Boxer will stand about .A fully grown male Boxer will weigh around 60 to 70 pounds, with their female counterpart will weigh about 55 to 65 pounds. As with many things, prevention is always better than treatment. Taking your Boxer to regular veterinary appointments is one of the best things you can do for their health, along with consistent love and care at home. One of the best things you can do at home is brush your dog's teeth regularly to help prevent painful periodontal disease and avoid pricey dental treatments in the future. Periodontal disease can cause bad breath and oral pain for your pup and may require your Boxer to have a dental cleaning or tooth extractions under anesthesia at some point in their lives if not attended to at home. Keeping your Boxer at a healthy weight is crucial for their longevity, overall health, and happiness. If your Boxer is overweight, talk to your veterinarian to develop a weight loss strategy so that you can get them back on track. Consult with your veterinarian about the ideal food and exercise for your Boxer. Like all dogs, Boxers have certain conditions that they are prone to. Boxers are a purebred dog breed prone to heart problems, like cardiomyopathy, heart valve narrowing, and congenital heart defects. Brachycephalic syndrome increases their risk of respiratory distress, allergies, heatstroke, and sinus problems. Regular veterinarian appointments are crucial in finding and treating illness early to give your Boxer the healthiest and longest life possible. Unfortunately, veterinary bills can be costly with many treatments for emergencies and illnesses, such as heart problems, being thousands of dollars to treat. When surveyed, .The financial safety net provided by pet insurance is why pet insurance is worth it for many pet parents. Keep in mind that even healthy behaviors, like exercise, can be overdone. Consult with your veterinarian about how much exercise is prudent. Medium to large-sized dogs that are still growing may suffer from joint damage if they are overexercised. Make a plan with your veterinarian today to provide your Boxer with the ideal amount of exercise to keep them lean, healthy, and happy. Boxer puppies grow into strong and sturdy adults that make fun-loving, often silly companions, and fierce protectors. Do you want to find the best pet insurance? Let's analyze your pet's breed, age, and location to find the right coverage and the best savings. Analyze My Pet About Pawlicy Advisor The pet insurance marketplace endorsed by veterinarians, at Pawlicy Advisor we make buying the best pet insurance easier. This post may contain affiliate links. Read more here. Courage and loyalty are attributes the Boxer is usually described with. With a good work ethic, playful demeanor, and a goofy face, this dog breed ranks among the top 10 in the USA for a while now. Their nobility and elegance came to focus after the originally working breed Boxer became unemployed during the early 19th century. The breed name derives from the way they defend themselves with their paws while playing. It really appears as the dog spars with the front paws. There is no doubt one might be tempted to get bring home one of these loving fellas. The growth in dogs has much to say about their health and potential — but how? While growing up dogs that suffer from some diseases might stagnate more than others. Boxers are a medium to large dog breed and are pretty safe from the usual bone and muscle disorders in larger dogs. However, hip dysplasia remains one of the most common issues. Reputable breeders will let you meet the parents and give you contacts from owners of puppies born in previous litters. Most Boxer puppies will correspond just fine to the ranges mentioned for their age. It is super important to not rush the growing process. Dogs that are overweight can experience problems later on in life that might have been avoided by maintaining an appropriate body condition. Moreover, the veterinarian can have the pup checked for possible health conditions causing the slow growth. Photo by otsphoto on Shutterstock Even with late bloomers, there is no reason to worry. Some dogs experience growing episodes sooner than others. The same rules apply to puppies that grow too fast. Damage due to wrong feeding can be avoided by using high-quality premium food and sticking to the recommendations according to weight and age on the labels. Never miss out on consulting your vet on the topic first — they will be glad to guide you through it! Boxer Growth Stages Until they reach adulthood, Boxers go through 3 growth stages. The general difference between the growth stages is how fast the puppy grows during the period and how they appear in posture and body condition. The first stage is from birth until they are 2 weeks of age. After the second week, the growth rate slows down. Most breeders wean the puppies off around the 4th-5th week. At 18 months of age, you can probably introduce your companion as a fully developed, curious, and independent adult Boxer. Boxer puppies have somewhere between 2. At the end of the first stage, they can reach around 4. At 1 month of age, their stuffed muscle figure comes at about 5. By the time they are 16 weeks old, males weigh lbs .Male Boxers are expected to have approximately lbs .In the next six months, the growth slows down to about lbs 0. Male Boxers should weigh around lbs kg by the time they reach 6 months of age. Female boxer puppies are expected to have lbs kg when they are half a year old. Since the Boxer qualifies as a medium to large breed, it takes longer for them to reach their full-sized version compared to other smaller breeds. There are exceptions when Boxers complete the growth at 20, even 24 months. Female Boxers that are done growing up weigh approximately lbs kg and stand .Their male counterparts have between 60 and 70 lbs kg and are 23 to 25 inches cm tall. In the meantime provide quality food, regular exercise, and maintain regular veterinary check-ups to ensure their well-being. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the standard dimensions of the breed. On the other hand, there is a handful of those that are larger than the standard too. Genetics is the most probable cause for this. Rarely do Boxers end up being smaller than the rest due to low production of the growth hormone. Luckily growth hormone problems in Boxers are very rare and other breeds such as the Miniature Pinscher, Spitz, or Karelian Bear Dog are more prone to the condition. Growth defects in dogs can appear due to Dwarfism Achondroplasia. Minor deformities can be surgically corrected, but again with a dubious prognosis. In Conclusion Understanding the growth chart will help you understand what role nutrition, diet, and exercise plays and adjust accordingly. Getting rid of excess weight or ruling out health issues is something you and your vet can work on together. Disclaimer: This blog post does not substitute veterinary attention and does not intend to do so. I am not a veterinarian or pet nutritionist. If your dog shows any sign of illness, call your vet. Post navigation. Things then taper off as they age, with them gaining little to no weight between their first and second birthdays. Boxers undergo several different stages during their lives, similar to how humans change as they develop from babies to teenagers to adults. A healthy adult Boxer will have a noticeable tuck in their waist and a muscular build. For this reason, if the size of your Boxer is crucial to you, I encourage you to work with a reputable breeder. Of course, some puppies may not follow the genetic makeup expected of them, but such situations are uncommon. A mother Boxer feeds her puppies on the grass. A notable change is that puppies require less protein and fat the older they get. So, feeding them food with the same nutritional composition as when they were younger could damage their growth. The amount and timing of when you feed your Boxer are also vital. Your Boxer puppy can handle larger portions of food two to three times per day as it grows. Such a feeding schedule can be damaging to a younger puppy, who needs several smaller meals to achieve growth. You can expect male Boxers to grow taller and heavier than females within any given litter. The key here is within a litter. Two Boxer puppies playing in the garden. How does this happen, you wonder? But until their growth plates calcify, puppies are in a fragile state, meaning that excessive exercise or exercising on hard surfaces can hinder their growth. The longer-term ramifications of too much exercise at too young of an age are often arthritis and hip dysplasia. Most veterinarians recommend five minutes of exercise per month of age, meaning a 4-month-old Boxer can safely have 20 minutes of exercise per day. But did you know that fixing your Boxer at the wrong age could cause them to grow taller than nature intended? The reason is that spaying or neutering Boxers too early can slow the closure of their growth plates. As a result, it gives your dog more time to continue growing. Such a situation is less common in smaller dogs , given that they stop growing at an earlier age, meaning that their growth plates are usually already calcified by the time their owners fix them. Doing so can have long-term ramifications on their joint and bone health. A snoozing boxer dog. The Bottom Line So, when does a Boxer stop growing? You can be sure that your Boxer will stop growing by 2 years old, although it often happens between the 12 and month mark. Therefore, if you have your heart set on a particular Boxer size to ensure you have enough space for them, consider adopting a full-grown Boxer from your local animal shelter. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. You will notice that there is a range in both height and weight. Use the lighter weights for female Boxers and the heavier weights for male Boxers. This principle also applies to the variations in heights. Females tend to weigh less and be smaller in size than males. Between 6 — 12 months of age, Boxers are no longer considered puppies since they start to reach sexual maturity. Boxers are considered adolescents between 6 months to 24 months, and at 2 years old Boxers reach adulthood. They will continue to grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. How long does it take for a Boxer to be fully grown? As a medium-sized dog breed, Boxers need more time to reach their full size and weight than smaller dog breeds. On average, Boxers will grow until they are 18 to 24 months old. At 2 years old, Boxers are full-grown, reaching their full height and weight. As with all other dog breeds, some adult Boxers will be smaller than the breed standards. If your Boxer is less than two years old, he or she is likely still growing. Insider Tip: To estimate how big and heavy your Boxer will get, you can contact the breeder. Puppies rarely exceed their parents weight and height. Boxers above this average may be classed over-weight. Check with your vet to get an accurate diagnosis since more athletic dogs will have bigger muscles and will weigh more. It is important to recognize if your Boxer adds extra weight so that you can adjust his or her lifestyle. After, you just need to deduct your weight to find out how the weight of your Boxer. However, the bigger they get, the trickier it gets for them to stand still on such a small scale. Measure at the withers shoulder whilst standing. Try it out below:. This will be the age when Boxer newborn is fully weaned and ready to go to his new home. His world expands at this time. Some have a difficult adjustment leaving littermates and dam and transitioning to their new family. A planned introduction to the home will set a good foundation for introduction to other situations. Housebreaking should begin at this age. With an excellent plan and follow-through, expect it to take 4 to 6 weeks for your Boxer to be doing well in this regard. Command training simple commands can be worked in with housebreaking and other daily activities. For example a 2 month old Boxer puppy can learn to sit while his harness and leash is being put on and then learn that walking over to the designated chosen area equals a trip to the bathroom. Sleep may be erratic at this time and a Boxer puppy can sleep as little as 9 hours per day rare or up to 18 hours. Most will take quite a few naps during the day and then wake up 1 to 2 times per night. We've seen 2 month old little ones sleep right through the night, but it is rare - in these cases, the dog is able to enter deep REM sleep quickly and stay there, keeping the number of nap times to a minimum. This is the minimum age a dog must be in order to enter a dog show event. Many clubs, such as the AKC require a dog to be 6 months old; however if you truly want to show your Boxer, you may do so at 3 months with many other dog clubs. By this age, the pup has a good idea of his home environment and since the rounds of puppy shots are almost done, owners should plan on how they will proceed in regard to introduction to the world. To a dog, his world is as big as the owners choose. For some, it is just the neighborhood, for others it is the entire town! The reason that we say "plan" is because how a pup is introduced to other dogs, people and new environments affect how the dog reacts and responds. A planned transition to new elements is a huge part of Socialization Training. During this stage, some owners become a bit concerned if their Boxer is not barking ; however this is not a super vocal breed he makes lots of noises like groans and even some purrs, but doesn't typically bark at every little thing. A quiet puppy will often outgrown this and find their voice as they mature. It is at that time that a Boxer will bark when someone comes to the house, etc. By 1 year, if owners follow through, the Boxer is well trained, for both commands simple and complex and house training. Still, the dog has learned the basic workings of the world. He has been trained to know where his belongings are, who you consider to be friend or foe and is very used to his daily schedule. This is a great Boxer age, the dog looks young, still has the mentality of a puppy with playfulness, etc. You'll have a 40 to 55 pound 20 to 25 kg size puppy jumping on you and acting silly. Females will be on the lower end, males on the higher end. The body structure is slim, the chest is still relatively narrow. Over the course of this year, from the beginning of year 1 to the beginning of year 2, most will gain an additional 15 to 20 pounds 6. Height will increase. The most noticeable physical change will be the widening of the chest, a sure tell sign of a 2 year old adult. It is not uncommon for a Boxer dog to seem too skinny during a quick, temporary phase around this mark. Generally from 14 to 22 months old, a Boxer may have some visible ribs and appear too slim as he struggles to catch up to a quick growth spurt. For most, this is nothing to be concerned about. This is a huge milestone. At 2 years old, a Boxer is considered to be an adult. The dog will be at his adult weight and height. If you are offering commercial food, now is the time to switch to an adult formula. Temperament will gradually change. That playful puppy temperament will slowly turn more serious, but even older adults can have a sense of humor. That puppy that used to leap after butterflies in the field may change into the adult that stands proud and strong, scanning the yard for trespassers. The Boxer will now begin to age at a more steady rate. Still active, yet fully trained, this is a wonderful stage. By this age, status in the house if full established. Other family members may have come and gone kids off to college, a new roommate moves in, etc. However, if the dog was properly trained, he knew, throughout any changes, that his place was as Beta to his Alpha human leader. A Boxer dog is considered to be a senior at the age of 7 or 8 years old. Since there is no official age, it is the veterinarian who makes this declaration. Though, even if it has not been declared, with this breed typically living to a range of 9 to 12 years, 9 years is about as long as you can extend this before you dub your Boxer a senior. It is important to recognize this transition, so that geriatric care needs can be met. Regular visits will normally increase from 1 time per year to twice a year. Changes will happen once again to the diet, moving over to one that is a bit lower in fat, yet higher in fiber. This helps a less active dog maintain weight and fiber is one element that aids in digestion. A geriatric screening will check for kidney function. A Boxer dog with decreased kidney function should be fed a lower protein diet. The vitamin and mineral supplement will now switch to a senior formula as well. Don't let the senior age label fool you, Boxers at this age should still be taken for a daily walk for exercise , will enjoy outings to the beach, etc. One thing to keep in mind is that an older dog will sometimes have less tolerance for puppies and young children. It is a good idea to have a designated area for your senior Boxer to retreat to, should he desire.Older dogs still like to see the family and be aware of comings and goings, but will often want to retreat when youngsters or puppies are at play. Each dog has his own tolerance for the loud noises and commotion that accompanies younger humans and dogs. The average life span of a Boxer is years old. At this age, a senior dog most likely has lived through some health issues. A dog of this age will most likely have some arthritis. Movement may become difficult, it is suggested to have steps and ramps for the dog if he or she is used to climbing up onto your bed or the couch. The dog bed should be evaluated for comfort and support. An orthopedic bed is highly recommended. Any time after this age that your dog is still with you is a blessing. Some Boxers live late into their teens; however you should prepare yourself that your dog is nearing the end of his life cycle. Related: Oldest Boxer Dogs in the World - Though this breed generally lives 9 to 12 years, some Boxers have reached into their teens. Puppies Boxer puppies are just adorable. Having a new boxer puppy at home is just overwhelming. But have you ever thought about the responsibilities you will have to handle and take care of? Besides, its not only about responsibility and taking care of your Boxer puppies, it about understanding their behavior in each development stages. Well, this article will help you in every way about Boxer puppies. The newborn puppies will only move to regulate their body temperature or when they are hungry. Newborn Boxer Puppy. Image Source — Blogspot. Newborn Boxers will not be able to hear, see or sense anything. Their eyes and ears will be closed until the end of week two. They will be unable to sense the human stimuli until they can see or hear. Neonatal stage is a very delicate stage for the puppies. Therefore, keep a close eye on Boxer puppies, whether they have been abandoned by its mother or littermates. If any puppy is abandoned, bottle feed them and keep them in a warm place. Or, it will die. Transitional Stage — 2 to 4 Weeks The transitional stage is a serious development stage. You can see your Boxer puppies opening their eyes and trying to wag their tails for the first time. Your Boxer puppies will also start walking a bit between two to three weeks. Image Source — Instagram. Baby Boxer will now want to explore the surroundings and will run around littermates jumping and growling. Socialization Stage — 4 to 12 Weeks Boxer puppies will start playing and running around the house with their littermates. They will be mischievous and may want your attention too. From the third and fourth weeks of their development, Boxer puppies will control their bowel movement as they move away from their whelping box. Many puppies will start having worms at this stage. And the mother Boxer may lose interest in cleaning her puppies excretion, having said that, you will have to take a step forward to clean the surroundings. This is the high time you socialize your puppy and give some basic training. By the eighth week, Boxer puppies will start being familiar with the surroundings and the people in the house as well. You should socialize the puppy with other animals as well as people around your neighborhood. A well-socialized puppy always defines a well-behaved dog. Otherwise, the Boxer puppies will try to dominate you. You should teach them the meaning of submission and dominance. From the starting of three months, your Boxer puppies will start feeling the independence and confidence in them. You should keep the training consistent as this is the very fragile time your Boxer puppy needs to learn. Furthermore, when they reach the age of four months old, you can send them to advance training classes. Adolescence — 6 to 18 Months Now your Boxer puppies are not puppies anymore, adolescence has now hit them. Your Boxer will now lose their puppy face completely and are now adult versions of themselves. Boxers will now lose their baby teeth and their second teething phase is likely to get started. During these months, your Boxers will grow stronger and more energetic. You should increase the training session according to their diet. Not a Puppy Anymore. The medium-sized breed tends to grow fast physically but their mind will still be a puppy until the end of the month. You should take care of their diet as well as their behavior. A well-trained puppy only grows as a well-behaved dog. Vaccination Chart For Boxers.

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. I fell in love with not only their beauty, but intense loyalty and happy go-lucky attitude. After loosing my first berner to cancer at the young age of 4 and knowing the short life span of the breed, I started exploring dogs with the beauty of the berner but life span of a mix breed. That's when I came upon the Bernedoodle. Not only do they not shed or very minimally , they come in a range of sizes for those not wanting a giant breed. The are also perfect for people with allergies and have a lifespan of years. Twice the length of the berner! Since bernedoodles are a hybrid, they are only likely to inherit a health problem common to both the poodle and bernese. Genetic testing greatly reduces the risk of many diseases. This is why all of our dogs are health tested and do not join our breeding program if they have not been. We hope you enjoy our website and look forward to providing you with your new family member! We are a small Bernedoodle breeder located in Southwest Ohio. We strive to produce healthy, happy, long-living puppies with fantastic temperaments. Our dogs are health tested and make wonderful family pets. We are more than happy to answer your questions and concerns. Step 1: Find Your Puppy Whenever we have a new litter ready to adopt, we post each puppy here on our website as well as our Facebook page. Step 2: Reserve Your Puppy Once you find the perfect pup you can reserve it right here on our website. You can even choose a delivery option during the reservation if you would like us to provide delivery to your doorstep. This include vet checks, provideing all the paperwork your vet will need including vaccination records and out-of-state travel papers. Our goal is to make the whole process easy and smooth for you. Safe Delivery of Your Puppy We can deliver your puppy safe and sound right to your door anywhere in the continental US with our puppy delivery service! Your puppy will be delivered safely by puppy bus or car to make things convenient for you and your puppy. We offer hand delivery of your puppy right to your door anywhere in the continental US! Call or text us at What you get with every puppy! Our goal is not only to provide you with a high-quality puppy, but to give you everything you need to make the transition for your new puppy as smoothly as possible! We send along a favorite toy that your puppy loves. Puppy microchip To protect your puppy from being lost or stolen, your puppy will receive a custom microchip… Shot record We always have your puppy up to date with all shots and vet visits. Genetic Guarantee Each puppy comes with a 1 year genetic guarantee that covers any genetic issues that may occur. We love him so much. You can tell The Bernedoodles socialize their puppies from a young age. He loves… Courtney E I am beyond pleased with the baby we brought home. He is absolutely the sweetest and smartest puppy we have ever had! He has been sleeping in his kennel with no concerns since second day… Yana Zolotov Here is our sweet boy Henry Don now 5 months. He is so sweet and the best dog, so smart, and did amazing with potty training and kennel training. Elton was super communicative, and we had a seamless transition having our puppy delivered to us in Oregon. Enzo kudy is almost 8 months! He is a super dog! Now 20 poundsWe love him! Thanks again! By partnering with a best-in-class puppy nanny delivery service, we are able to deliver a happy and healthy Mini-Bernedoodle puppy directly to you. Let's start a conversation about finding the perfect furry friend. Available Mini Bernedoodle Puppies Sign up to be Notified of New Litters Please click the button below to sign up to ur notification list so you will be one of the first to know! Get Notifications We offer a 1-year genetic health guarantee on all of our puppies. You can see the details on our Policies page. We are happy to provide references and share our experience and suggestions. We make it a point to place our puppies with families that are a good fit for everyone. If you have any questions, please Contact Us. Nationwide Shipping Available Customer Testimonials Hello Leroy, I just want to say thank you since my puppies have come to fill our family with love and of course we also give them a lot of love. Hello Mr. Raber, This is Vicki K. We love, love, love our puppies! Both girls are doing just wonderfully! We have taken training classes together and they are both very smart in addition to being so beautiful! We attract a lot of attention when we go places together! Bella weighs 28 pounds and she is such a joy and a blessing. She was incredibly easy to house train. Thank you so much for letting us be her forever home! I am attaching a few pictures of Bella. You and your family have a wonderful and blessed Christmas!! Hi Leroy. I have been meaning to do this for a while, but with holidays, etc… Sending along pics of Layla. The best temperament, loving…pretty much house trained herself via the doggie door. Not perfect, but close! When I have him out in public, people create such a fuss about him because they think he is so cute! Cassie H. Murfee is settling in nicely. He has learned to navigate our backyard steps, both up and down. He is a very vocal little guy-definitely makes his wants known, especially early in the morning. Thanks for allowing us to give him his forever home. Lois J. He has been easy to train and is incredibly social! Thank you. Joshua R. If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. But did you know that not all of them strive for the same quality? Ethical Bernedoodle breeders only produce new litters from dogs that have passed health screening with flying colors. Ethical breeders also offer health guarantees that are usually applicable for either one or two years from adoption. Additionally, you can also ask around your friends and family members in case any of them have recently adopted a Bernedoodle in your area. Bernedoodle Buddies Located on a beautiful farm right outside of Columbus, Bernedoodle Buddies has standard-sized Bernedoodle puppies for sale in Ohio. Their goal is to breed puppies for health and temperament and their focus is on all sorts of enrichment activities and early learning to give their pups a solid foundation. As a family breeder, they raise all of their puppies in their home. Moreover, this exceptional breeder follows the Puppy Culture and Badass Breeder programs. They introduce the puppies to all sorts of sights and sounds, potty training, crate training, clicker training, basic manners, and even car rides and grooming. In addition to that, they also utilize the Early Neurological Stimulation method ENS that helps the puppies get used to regular body handling and human interaction from an early age. What Makes This Breeder Unique? Their breeding dogs are all fully health tested and some of them are also registered with the AKC.

Trainability: Good Brief Origin Introduction The Golden Retriever has come quite a long way from its origin in Scotland, becoming a household favorite for so many families. They became part of the club in , 10 years before the Golden Retriever in .Both of these dogs were given hunting job roles to retrieve waterfowl and small land animals. These dogs have especially gentle mouths, not bruising or harming the muscle in the downed animals. Image Credit: Sven Mewis, Shutterstock Golden Retrievers went on to become one of the most revered family dogs of all breeds. While less common, ranking 91st on the AKC popularity list, Flat Coated Retrievers are still beloved dogs for their friendly, docile dispositions. Both dogs have participated as show dogs. There are quite a few personality traits that the two dogs share. They are both naturally happy, sweet-tempered dogs who have an intense adoration for humans. They blend in well with many different types of lifestyles. Each would do just as well as an outdoor adventurer or in-home companion. They are both playful and outgoing. They tend to like children and get along with most other pets. Because of their hunting roots, they may be a little prone to play-chasing. But neither breed is aggressive or violent with people or animals. Image Credit: Olena Brodetska, Shutterstock While each breed is intuitive with your emotions, Flat-Coated Retrievers seem to be a little more emotional themselves. They are humorous, playful, and always cheerful to be around. The Golden Retriever is equally pleasant. However, they do take their work seriously if you give them a job to do. Flat-Coated Retrievers can handle spending a portion of their day alone. Goldens, on the other hand, become stressed if they spend too much time away from people. They do much better with at least one person home most of the time. Both breeds do well with children of all ages and other animals. Both like other dogs, so having a companion for them is a positive idea. Neither dog would make an ideal watch or guard dog, as they are too amiable with people. Physical Appearance: Colors and Builds As the name implies, Golden Retrievers have coats that range in a shade of gold from cream to red mahogany. Flat-Coated Retrievers range from solid black to liver-colored. As far as proportion, each has similar fur distribution, with longer plumes around the ears, underbelly, and tail. Both require regular brushing and are average shedders. Male Goldens weigh an average of 64 to 75 pounds, while females weigh between 60 and 71 pounds. Flat-Coats weigh an average of 60 to 79 pounds for males and 55 to 71 pounds for females. Each of these dogs is sturdy and fit but prone to obesity. Intelligence: Work, Training and Basic Commands As previously mentioned, both dogs are retrievers in terms of work. This means they are each incredibly receptive to training and obedience. While the Golden Retriever thrives in duty, the Flat-Coat may be better left as a gundog or companion only. Flat-Coats may excel in roles that require therapy, service, or other related work, but they are generally not used for this purpose. Because they are a bit more stubborn than their Golden cousins, they may not be as easy to teach either. They are excellent guide, service, and therapy dogs. For scent, they can be trained to pick up on diabetic reactions and notify the person of an oncoming attack. They can aid the blind and are wonderful companions for children and adults with various mental or physical disabilities. Both breeds pick up on basic commands without issue. They are ideal candidates for tasks, and each thrives on positive reinforcement while learning. House training should also be an effortless thing for them to learn. They live an average of 8 to 14 years. The most commonly seen problem with this breed is cancer, which can come in many forms. They may also be prone to hip dysplasia and luxating patella, which are joint issues that plague many larger breeds. Image Credit By: great. Even though they are generally healthy, they can have many problems that develop over time. Commonly seen issues among the breed are allergies, hypothyroidism, cataracts, bloat, hip dysplasia, and progressive retinal atrophy. However, the most well-known death-related issue in Goldens remains to be cancer. They live an average of 10 to 12 years in total. While both would do excellently well in most environments, ultimately, you will need to choose based on your personal circumstances. As with any breed, there will be specific characteristics that will make one of them fit in with your home life better. So, Flat-Coated Retriever or Golden Retriever, whichever you choose, they are sure to fill your life with many years of laughter and positive memories. See also:. Golden Retriever: Size And Appearance The main difference between a flat-coated retriever and golden retriever is their fur coat. As their name suggests, flat-coated retrievers have fur that lies flat compared to the more full and wavy coat of a golden retriever. Additionally, flat-coated and golden retrievers differ in size as well as their overall head and body shape. Coat Golden retrievers generally have golden or light golden coats, with some having dark golden or reddish coloring. While flat-coated retrievers can come in reddish colors, their coats are normally dark liver or black in color. Golden retrievers shed a bit more compared to flat-coated retrievers who have slightly longer and shinier coats. Goldens have more feathering features, while the flat-coat mainly displays this on their tail and legs. This particular feature makes the flat-coat stand out from all the other retriever breeds. Height And Weight Both retrievers are medium in size, with the average flat-coat being slightly bigger than the typical golden retriever. Golden Retriever vs. Flat-Coated Retriever Temperament And Trainability Retrievers were originally bred as hunting dogs to find birds or other game and were taught to bring back prey undamaged to their owners. Being highly intelligent dogs, golden retrievers and flat-coats learn quickly, always willing to obey and please their owners. Both golden and flat-coated retrievers have loving and loyal temperaments, making them wonderful pets for families. Their friendly, sociable, easygoing personalities make them popular breeds for first-time dog parents and children. They get on well with other dogs and cats, too. Their willingness to learn makes both flat-coated and golden retrievers highly trainable. Quick to learn, golden retrievers are excellent service or guide dogs while often used for search and rescue work as well. The active, exuberant flat-coated retriever not only makes a great sporting dog but excels in agility, scent work, and tracking. They love to be outdoors and being physical, so make sure you have space and energy to play with this rambunctious breed! Flat-Coated Retriever vs. Although these two breeds are very similar at a glance, their respective care requirements can be better suited to different types of pet owners and lifestyles. Grooming Golden retrievers shed throughout the year, with their heaviest shedding taking place at the start of spring and fall. Bathing your golden once a month is sufficient. Flat-coated retrievers also benefit from regular coat grooming two to three times a week plus de-shedding once a week. Grooming your dog regularly at home and getting professional grooming treatments every eight weeks will keep your golden retriever or flat-coat in show dog style! Diet Being energetic and larger dogs, both golden and flat-coated retrievers need to eat a nutritious diet to keep them healthy and active. Goldies and flat-coats are known for their ravenous appetite, so be careful not to overfeed them! Pet food brands include a feeding guide on their packaging to ensure you give your dog the right daily quantities. In general, you can estimate your active and healthy adult goldie to need between 1, and 1, calories per day or three to four cups of premium dog food. Adult flat-coats should be fed twice a day, getting three to five cups of premium dog food to meet all their nutritional needs. Again, their diet is influenced by their health, age, weight, and energy levels. Both retriever types are prone to infected ears often caused by yeast infections. Including dog foods for yeast infections in their diet will help to keep ear problems at bay. Exercise Pet owners often wonder which dog breed is more energetic of these two retriever types. However, flat-coated retrievers are comparatively more energetic than golden retrievers, needing lots of space to run and play. They should be involved in sporting activities to keep them stimulated both mentally and physically. Golden retrievers enjoy living in a busy household and getting plenty of attention from their owners or children in the family. Giving your goldie between 20 to 30 minutes of hard, consistent exercise twice daily should keep them happy and content. On the other hand, flat-coated retrievers will benefit from two hours of daily exercising to keep them from becoming mischievous and out of control! They thrive on long walks, swimming in dams, or following scents. Overall, golden retrievers are the more popular breed for owners who want a closer bond and more interaction with their pets. Your goldie is always happy to hang close to you and will sleep at your feet whenever the opportunity arises. On the other hand, flat-coated retrievers are more independent dogs. However, they also need more attention when it comes to keeping up with their physical demands for more activity. Golden retrievers make excellent family dogs, being kid- and pet-friendly too, while flat-coats are better suited to more active individuals. However, flat-coated retrievers thrive in environments that include other dogs to keep them busy. Finally, golden retrievers have more even temperaments, making them easier dogs to manage in a family environment. But if you can keep your flat-coat busy and properly stimulated, they make great companions for both individuals and families. FAQs: Flat-Coated vs. Golden Retrievers Is the flat-coated retriever the same as the Labrador? Flat-coats are closely related to Labradors but are bigger, leaner, and more elegant in appearance. Additionally, the Lab has shorter, denser, and wavier fur compared to the flat-coated retriever, which has a lustrous and flat-lying coat. What two breeds make a golden retriever? The golden retriever originally came from the Scottish Highlands and was crossbred between the wavy-coated retriever and water spaniel. The result was a golden pup with excellent physical abilities as a working dog with a lovable personality. Golden retrievers make wonderful additions to a family home. Other distinctive differences between the flat-coated retriever and golden retriever include: Golden retrievers have lighter, golden-colored coats compared to flat-coats, which have black or liver-colored fur. Golden retrievers have a more boxy and rounded head shape, while the flat-coated retriever has a longer head. Goldens love human contact and interaction, while flat-coats tend to be more independent. Flat-coated retrievers have a slightly shorter lifespan compared to goldens. You May Also Like. Vocality level 4 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. Temperament The Flat-Coated Retriever is a sweet, exuberant, lively dog that loves to play and retrieve. They are on the go outdoors, but quiet indoors. This breed is among the most devoted and companionable of dogs, a true family dog. They need regular exercise to be on their best behavior, however. They are a sensitive breed and very responsive to training. Their hallmark is their wagging tail. Upkeep This active dog needs daily exercise and fun, and especially enjoys the chance to hike or swim. This is a family-oriented dog that does best when allowed to live inside and play outside. The coat needs only weekly brushing and little, if any, minor trimming occasionally. Health Minor concerns: CHD, glaucoma, patellar luxation, hemangiosarcoma, osteosarcoma, lymphosarcoma, gastric torsion, fibrosarcoma Occasionally seen: seizures, diabetes Suggested tests: eye, hip, knee Life span: 8 years History One of the earliest uses of retrieving dogs was to help fishermen retrieve fish and objects from the water. In the nineteenth century, such retrieving dogs were especially popular with the cod fisheries around Newfoundland. Of these dogs, the most popular breeds were the Labrador not to be confused with the present Labrador Retriever and several sizes of Newfoundlands. In fact, it was among the earliest breeds to be shown at English dog shows. Near the end of the s, crosses with a straighter-haired breed were made because the wavy coat was thought to be less water repellant. Crosses to setters and collies of the time may also have been made. The resulting Flat-Coated Retrievers became tremendously popular. The breed was not recognized by the AKC until , by which time it had already begun to drop in popularity. By the end of the Second World War, the number of Flat-Coats had dwindled to the point that the breed was threatened with extinction. Concerted efforts to bring the breed back slowly succeeded, and the Flat-Coat now enjoys modest popularity as a companion and show dog, but has not regained its field presence. Related Content.

I blogged about my bout with the puppy blues. I shared on YouTube and Instagram how hard it was to have a puppy in the house. And wow do I have loads to share about the experience of being a Goldendoodle owner. First things first. People choose to adopt or shop for a whole host of different reasons — many of which are highly personal. We had been wanting to add a dog to the family for years, but landed on a Goldendoodle puppy intentionally and thoughtfully. This decision was taken seriously and we contemplated a lot of options. Ultimately we wanted the experience of raising a puppy. Point being — I made the choice I made and I stand by it. We adopted our cat from a shelter and have mad respect for that experience. For us, sourcing a puppy from a reputable breeder was the right choice at the time and honestly, given the competition at shelters, the only real choice. But I digress. Who this post is for. I was in the market for a Goldendoodle puppy and was after all the info on the breed I could get. What exactly is a Goldendoodle? Goldendoodles are produced when a Golden Retriever is mixed with a Poodle. There are many different types and generations of Goldendoodles. You can also find Medium and Mini Goldendoodle options — all of which are determined by the size of the Poodle. The parent breeds of the puppy ultimately determine the generation of the puppy — and different generations are known for different traits such as coat type, temperament, body size and shape, etc. Goldendoodle generations. Like I said, Goldendoodle dogs come in a whole host of generations. This breeding variety can offer a lot of trait blends you might find in a Poodle Golden Retriever mix, from coat type to body shape and more. This is the first generation of Goldendoodle. Our dog, Lemon, is an F2 Goldendoodle. The brutal truth about owning a Goldendoodle. People will likely get upset that you chose to shop and not adopt. Yep — please refer to the above. Ironically — neither does team purebred! Folks who run in the purebred dog circuit sometimes have strong opinions about the lineage and breeding standards of a dog. Honestly, I do understand where the criticism about the Goldendoodle breed comes from. The result? A lot of really nasty, unsavory backyard breeding tactics. Many Goldendoodle breeders are unscrupulous and hard to verify. Unlike an AKC recognized breed where you can search for reputable and verified breeders, no such official list exists for Goldendoodles. This means most of us shopping for a Goldendoodle are just hitting up Google, praying to see good reviews, and maybe hopefully getting a good word of mouth recommendation from another doodle owner. There are plenty of ethical, legitimate Goldendoodle breeders out there. Kindly ask the owner where they got their dog from and if they liked the experience. Extra points if you can learn about the health of the dog. I also highly recommend only buying from a breeder that performs various health screenings on the parent dogs. Good breeders should be testing for the Goldendoodle health issues seen most commonly. There are no health testing requirements when it comes to breeding doodles, so all health tests are at the expense and discretion of the breeder. Good breeders DO test! Goldendoodle sizes vary widely — and breeders cannot guarantee them. Breeders often price their Goldendoodle puppies by size. Standard size Goldendoodles tend to cost less than Mini Goldendoodles because the Miniature Goldendoodle size is considered more popular. Goldendoodles are a mixed breed group at the end of the day — so weight fluctuates wildly. Best estimations can absolutely be made based on the weight of the parents, but ultimately no breeder can accurately promise or guarantee the end size of your dog. Sizing as advertised by a breeder is a ballpark range, not an absolute promise. Another Goldendoodle trait often promised by breeders is coat type. Goldendoodle colors and coats do change as your dog grows. Puppy coats also may be curlier or straighter than their adult coats. Unfortunately the dark curly coat you fall in love with when bringing your puppy home might in fact shed away to a much lighter or straighter coat. Also — hot take — the Goldendoodle hypoallergenic and non-shedding promise pumped out into the world by breeders is a bit of a myth. This is one of the biggest misconceptions about Goldendoodles. Goldendoodles with more Golden Retriever in them have a higher likelihood of shedding than generations with more Poodle or potentially more mixed. Goldendoodle coats require a lot of maintenance. For the most part, Goldendoodle coats do require a fair bit of maintenance. This is especially true if you like your doodles hair to be long and shaggy. Goldendoodle puppy fur is fine and both tangles and mats easily. The shorter cut is so much easier to maintain than that beautiful, long look. Goldendoodles are known for having gut issues. From allergies to just general bubble gut, doodles can tend to have finicky tummies. It also means you might need to put up with random bouts of diarrhea. Goldendoodles are known for having allergies — both food related and seasonal. Lemon wakes up every single morning with eye boogers thanks to her seasonal allergies. But in all seriousness, allergies are actually a fairly well known fact of doodles in general. Doodles are also susceptible to seasonal allergies and allergies to specific plants, grass, etc. We just give her some supplements, watch her diet, and try to discourage rolling around in freshly cut grass. Goldendoodles are expensive. Goldendoodles are wildly expensive. End of story. To purchase a Goldendoodle in , the average puppy would ring in at multiple thousands of dollars. Even in more rural areas, breeders were still able to charge a pretty penny. Many people actually fly puppies into wherever they live from rural breeders just to save money! Lemon had stomach issues from the moment we brought her home, resulting in expensive vet visits, tests, medicines, and food. For the record, I highly recommend getting pet insurance for your dood. Goldendoodles have endless amounts of energy. Somewhere along the way I feel like Goldendoodles got the reputation for being amazing for beginner dog owners and as family dogs. Goldendoodles are like Energizer bunnies. Man, do they have a lot of energy! Goldendoodles constantly need to be engaged or have something to do. But for the most part, this breed is not a lap dog nor are they a true couch potato. Goldendoodles will require a minimum of one healthy walk per day, often more. Goldendoodles can survive on less exercise, but the result is often behavioral problems that may lead them to ultimately be surrendered. Goldendoodles are smart AF. One of the most frequently asked questions about doods that I get over on Instagram is about trainability of this breed. Goldendoodles make for amazing training class dogs. These doods are sharp as a tack and genuinely love to be challenged and work with their humans. Goldendoodles are re-homed at high rates because not enough people do their research into the facts of this designer dog breed. For as expensive as these designer dogs are — they do actually end up surrendered. They just saw a cute puppy and fell in love. Some owners purchase their Goldendoodle puppy imagining a sweet, mellow, curly, non-shedding, hypoallergenic pup only to find out their puppy is, well…a Goldendoodle. Loads of energy. May or may not shed. But yes, still very sweet. I knew my pup would come home with energy, but even I was surprised by just how much energy she had to burn each day! Lemon typically gets walked twice per day. We also absolutely love taking Lemon to training classic, sport classes, and doggy daycare — all of which really wear her out. Sport classes like nosework or agility are also great energy releases! Doggy daycare is an amazing way for dogs to socialize together in a safe, supervised environment. Goldendoodles are an amazing mixed breed. Out of all the dog breeds out there — I honestly still see each and every day why my husband and I chose to go with a dood. Lemon is funny, quirky, and goofy — and so are all her siblings. Lemon is insanely smart and incredibly loving. Even after all the late night bouts of diarrhea, the endless vet visits, the tangled fur, the training woes, and the morning eye boogers — we love our dog. We love our Goldendoodle. We love Lemon. Thinking of adding a dood to the family? Feel free to drop questions into the comments below! Goldendoodle puppies are all the rage right now. However, as cute as they are—getting a Goldendoodle puppy is a big deal! Their cuteness is just an added bonus! Goldendoodle Puppy Is a Goldendoodle the right fit for you and your family? Nowadays any and every level of dog owner is purchasing a doodle—people who have only owned short-haired dogs, incredibly calm dogs, and sometimes first-time dog owners. As a result of not knowing what a person is getting themselves into when they purchase a doodle, doodle rehoming is at an all-time high! Even though many people love their doodle—a doodle may not be the right fit for you. Many people are giving away their Goldendoodles, rehoming them, or sending them to a rescue. If you skimp on the price, you could end up with a dog that is poorly bred. Which is incredibly dangerous for you, your puppy, and the breeding industry. Genetic testing helps prevent the breeding of dogs that test poorly for bad genes or health and behavioral issues. This will essentially cost you a fortune later in high vet bills, training costs, and potentially medical and lawsuit charges. Dogs in a Kennel Additionally, buying from a low-quality breeder to save money helps keep puppy mills in business. Puppy mills over breed their dogs. Those poor overbred dogs are usually stuck in a kennel their entire life—usually in a cramped space, stacked on top of each other, sitting in their urine or feces. There are also puppy mill breeders that keep their puppies in outside kennels, never getting to socialize with other dogs or humans. And they never have a chance to live a life of happiness and freedom. Why on earth would anyone want to support something so inhumane??? Remember the age-old saying, you get what you pay for. And that goes for dog breeders as well. Please choose to purchase your dog from an ethical breeder. If you purchase from a breeder that does not perform genetic testing, you are at risk for a plethora of issues. Please do your research, but due to the explosion in Goldendoodle popularity, there is a higher chance of running across a bad breeder and bad genetics because there are many who are in it for the money and not for the love and care of breeding a sound Goldendoodle. High Coat Maintenance The biggest complaint I hear from Goldendoodle parents is how high maintenance the coat is. Their coat requires quite a bit of brushing. Actually……a lot of brushing. At least 15 minutes a day! A little too easily. And those mats hurt and restrict body movement. Not only do you have to brush your Goldendoodle, but you also have to comb down to the skin, until the comb goes through the coat effortlessly. This means you will actually have to block out time from your day to physically brush your dog every single day. Otherwise, your doodle ends up completely knotted up. This leads to moisture becoming trapped in the coat once this happens, bacteria begins to grow and then your doodle will get hot spots and major skin issues. Putting your dog through that kind of torture for simple aesthetics is really uncool. To ask your dog groomer—who is more than likely an insanely over the top dog lover will feel awful torturing your dog for 3 hours as they try to hurriedly brush and pull out mats due to appointment restrictions. If you feel you have what it takes to brush your Doodle daily and keep them mat free, then a Goldendoodle is a great choice for you! If not. .Plus it can be dangerous, especially if you attempt to trim out matting. During quarantine I witnessed quite a few dogs with burns, cuts, nails quicked too short, and uneven faces and coat lengths. Some dogs were so burned by the clippers they needed vet attention. The cut caused the leg to get infected Luckily the dog was surrendered and ended up with a great life! They take longer to wash, dry, and trim. Almost times longer than many other dog breeds. Therefore, they cost more professionally. Your dog begins to lick these itchy areas and bites incessantly until the spot becomes red and irritated, sometimes bloody. Doodle with Skin Issues And sometimes if a Goldendoodle is bred poorly, they can have health and skin issues ranging from ear infections, hot spots, and skin allergies as well. Which is kinda gross considering your house will begin to smell the same way. I have groomed many sour-coated Goldendoodles that have smelled so bad, we had to air out the grooming salon. They tend to hold moisture and grow bacteria quickly. The trouble areas are usually underneath the ears, under the chin, their feet, and their sanitary booty and pee-pee areas. Getting on a regular bath and professional grooming schedule can help save your furniture, carpet, and bedding from getting that dog odor. Doodle Grooming Guide 7. This can sometimes be too much for people to handle. I have older clients that have Goldendoodles and sometimes they are too afraid to bring them in alone for fear of falling from being pulled holding the leash, or tripping over their Goldendoodle while trying to bring then in for a professional groom. Many times the mouthiness feels like extreme biting. However, training can fix most mouthiness cases. Goldendoodle Puppy 9. Shedding Many Goldendoodles do shed! Especially if they are a first-generation or F1, which is a Golden Retriever crossed with a Standard Poodle. And for this reason, I have witnessed many Goldendoodles either returned or given away, or sent to a rescue group or shelter. Goldendoodle Hair .Their friendliness results in jumping, barking, using their arms and feet, mouthing people, and of course—crotch sniffing. In some rare cases, Goldendoodles can be aggressive. Size Nowadays Goldendoodles come in a variety of sizes, ranging from toy to standard. I have witnessed countless Goldendoodles come out large, and large Goldendoodles come out small. They were supposed to only grow to 30lbs, but now weigh a whopping 90lbs! Dog Allergies Despite popular opinion, I can assure you that there is no such thing as a hypoallergenic dog. Even if your dog is an FB doodle. All dogs have skin which sheds and all dogs have hair which sheds, some less than others. Otherwise, all of the pollen, dirt, leaves, and dust they come in contact with, will stick to their coat. Thus, creating an allergy-ridden furball running around the house. I feel like this just about covers many of the reasons I see Goldendoodle rehomed. Hopefully, all of these points can help you make a better, informed decision in regard to purchasing a Goldendoodle puppy! Join My Tribe to learn more about Pet Parenting! October 25, In search of a new forever best friend? Not sure what puppy breed works best for you and your family? The Goldendoodle, a hybrid breed that launched into popularity in the United States in the s and never left the top list, Goldendoodles are affectionate and smart dogs whose amiable personalities are well-suited for a variety of owners and lifestyles! How do you know if the Goldendoodle is the right fit for you and your family? A Brief Background on Goldendoodles! As we quickly stated earlier, the Goldendoodle is a hybrid, a cross between a Poodle and a Golden Retriever. Thanks to the success of Labradoodles Labrador Retriever and Poodle cross-breed , dog breeders began to intentionally breed Golden Retrievers with a range of Poodles, creating a variety of Goldendoodles in different coloring and sizes. What are Goldendoodles Breed Characteristics? Some distinguishable characteristics of the Goldendoodle include their sizing range, variety of coloring, and temperament. Goldendoodles can come in mini to standard size, thanks to the genes from their poodle side. Goldendoodles can weigh starting at 15 lbs for miniature sizes up to 80 Ilbs for standard. One of the most distinguishable features is their thick, soft, curly coats that are considered hypoallergenic because they shed less frequently than other dog breeds. What are Goldendoodles Personalities like? Goldendoodles love people! They are friendly, affectionate, and love to please. With the right amount of socialization, this breed will be a friend to everyone! However, their fun-loving personalities also bring a lot of high energy, jumpiness, and nippiness throughout puppyhood. This is important to remember especially if you have young children at home. Goldendoodles can make excellent family dogs, but proper training and boundaries must be started the moment you bring them home to help get them there! Think about your current living environment and where you plan to be in the next few years. That being said, if you were planning on adding a Goldendoodle to your life, consider that these pups do best in a home with enough space especially if you are getting a standard-sized Goldendoodle and a fenced in yard! While some Goldendoodles on the smaller range of the size scale work great for apartment dwelling, these are energetic breeds that need space to exercise and play. Regular walks and training sessions at a local park will help them expel some energy in a constructive way, and are highly recommended for this breed, especially if you live in a city environment! How to Care for Your Goldendoodle! Goldendoodles can suffer from hip and elbow dysplasia, ear infections, allergies, hypothyroidism, and Gastric Dilation Volvulus Bloat. To avoid having to shave down their beautiful coats, daily brushing to remove mats is recommended, along with regular professional grooming appointments. Like all other breeds, having their nails trimmed and teeth brushed regularly will ensure they stay clean and healthy! Goldendoodle puppies are very smart and love to work! With consistent puppy training from an early age, they can master basic obedience skills quickly, and also move on to more advanced training, including therapy and service animal training. Start your puppy off on the right paw by establishing their daily puppy schedule complete with feeding, potty breaks, nap times, playtimes, and puppy training sessions! Going back to their wilder instincts, puppies will naturally avoid soiling where they sleep. Crate training your Goldendoodle puppy will help boost their confidence and resilience while learning to be alone at home. Puppy training can provide your puppy with controlled socialization with other puppies under the supervision of a puppy trainer that can watch out for rough playing or dominant behaviors between puppies. When done correctly, socialization helps teach your puppy the proper way to great people, other dogs and create boundaries. During socialization sessions, you can work with your puppy on barking or jumping, which are common puppy behaviors when they are excited or over-stimulated when meeting strangers. And if you're not sure how to do this on your own, hire a local puppy trainer to help set you up for the best success! Consider advanced training to keep them engaged Goldendoodles are very intelligent which means they love stimulating activities! Along with basic obedience, dog sports like agility are a great way to motivate them and help your puppy work out their energy. Agility helps establish a stronger communication bond through body language while your puppy is participating. You will learn to communicate with more body language and signals to focus your puppy at performing tasks necessary to help individuals that are incapable of doing it themselves. Respect their alone time. This is especially challenging for young kids when they can look like real-life stuffed animals! But, this constant handling can often cause some frustration for these young pups, having them act out with more nipping to try to make the petting stops, or growling, which can lead to more serious behavioral issues down the road. Make sure to give them dedicated time through the day to rest and their own space where they can be left alone to nap, unbothered. And always monitor young kids when they are interacting with the puppy so you can easily step in to give your puppy a break when they need it! Did you recently bring home a Goldendoodle puppy? Are you still planning and not sure what breed fits your lifestyle? Let us know in the comments! Check out these blogs related to puppy training and more! Goldendoodle Size In recent years , Goldendoodles have become one of the most popular dog types for pet lovers across North America because of their wonderful Goldendoodle temperament, cuddly good looks and they make great family pets. These doodle mix pups are the offspring of two beloved dog breeds — golden retrievers and poodles. The crossbreed poodle mix of these two dogs in this breed group brings out the best of both lines. These dogs are affectionate, loving, kind, and accepting of strangers, making them an ideal choice for both new and experienced dog owners. The Goldendoodle puppy is one of the cutest! Five important things to know about Goldendoodle temperament 1. They do, however, have a very high energy level and a high activity level, and do best in households with enough space and time for lots of exercise. Goldendoodles love all the classic canine activities, such as fetch, long walks, and running. Many also love to explore water and can learn to swim, and they make great guide dogs, service dogs, and even therapy dogs. With plenty of exercises, most Goldendoodles display very little aggression and are very obedient. As your dog ages, you will want to watch for hip issues referred to as hip dysplasia. Most other health issues are minor. Though many top breeders offer trained Goldendoodles for adoption, these pups can also continue their training at home. Goldendoodles are very smart dogs and willing to learn new behaviors and commands with the help of positive reinforcement. Punishments such as hitting or shouting at a Goldendoodle are not recommended and can inhibit the Doodle training process. Crate training and alone time training are highly recommended, as Goldendoodles can suffer from separation anxiety. Socializing Is Good Goldendoodles are naturally curious, friendly dogs and calm around humans and, like their parent breeds, most are also fine around other dogs. This is especially true of professionally raised Goldendoodles that have lived around their littermates for at least the first eight weeks of life. They are both wonderful pets with beautiful curly coats, and both are easy to train. Goldendoodles can have some key personality differences, including more immediate friendliness with new people. Both of these doodle mixes benefit from an active lifestyle, but Goldendoodles can be slightly less energetic. As the offspring of two sporting class dogs, Goldendoodles share DNA with many popular hunting dogs. Goldendoodles can be known to chase smaller wild animals, including squirrels, chipmunks, and mice, so be sure to keep your friend on a leash during their first visits to the local park. In our training program, they will be introduced to other animals to build comfortability and tame curiosity. If you are considering adding a Goldendoodle to your family, you can be certain that it will bring plenty of love and fun into your home. Take a look at our available puppies or contact Pride and Prejudoodles today for more information. Speak to a member of our team to learn more You Should Know the Temperament of Goldendoodles Both the standard poodle and golden retriever were originally bred as a sporting breed. The Standard Poodle was originally bred as a retrieving dog specifically for the water! The Golden Retriever as its name would suggest was also bred to accompany his master on the hunt to retrieve game. Retrieving is a skill that requires dutiful obedience on the part of the dog and an active, alert disposition. In recent decades, the vast majority of poodles and golden retrievers have been bred for family pets rather than hunting companions, but their original roots remain. Golden retrievers in particular have been frequently bred for their obedience and service dog potential. And both breeds are quite athletic, tend to like retrieval games like fetch, and are overall moderately active dogs. Bred specifically for its small size and companionship, the Miniature Poodle tends to be more demanding of attention and can be more excitable and less docile than their standard-sized counterparts. Miniatures are still known for their intelligence and affection and combined with the little extra spunk they pack, they can make an ideal addition to the right family. This is something to consider if you are wanting a smaller version of the doodle. An amazing dog! Goldendoodles are known for their friendly, gentle dispositions and their eager-to-please attitudes. They are incredibly people-oriented and easy to train! They have a charming sense of humor and an uncanny ability to know when their humans could use an extra snuggle. This type of coat is very similar to the Golden Retriever hence the shedding. Wavy coats are still prone to some shedding but are fairly easy as far as grooming - typically only requiring brushing a couple times a week to avoid matting. This type of coat is a good middle blend between the two breeds. The curly coat will be ultra-low shedding and is best for people with allergies, but it will require more frequent brushing to prevent matting. We find that they shed about as much as a human — so you will see hair in the brush when you comb them, but it will not be all over your floors and furniture as with most other non-doodle dog breeds. Your breeder should be able to tell what type of coats the pups have from an early age. At JLDD we love our multigenerational litters. Adding more poodle generally equates to a curlier coat and less shedding as seen in a F1b or multigenerational doodle. When bred down correctly such as coat testing completed on parent dogs then a breeder can ensure to only pass on the non-shedding gene to the next generation, so the result is an ultra low-shedding dog! Helpful Tip Alert! The trademark temperament and low-shedding coat of this breed do not necessarily mean this is a low-maintenance dog. When considering the athletic breed backgrounds of this dog as well as their very high intelligence, its no surprise that goldendoodles do require a lot of human attention. This is what makes the breed incredibly easy to train and great for first time dog owners but it also means that your goldendoodle will not be happy to spend his days alone in the backyard. The same intuitive, sensitive nature that makes the goldendoodle an excellent therapy dog candidate, also means that your pup will want to be with you all the time! If you are not prepared to never watch Netflix alone again, then the goldendoodle may not be the best fit for you! Most goldendoodles tend to be a second shadow to their owners and follow them around the house and are up for being a companion on any adventure! This is not a sedentary dog and will require some kind of physical exercise several times a week in order to be at his best. Finally, many people are attracted to the Goldendoodle for its minimally shedding coat. But this does not mean the coat is low maintenance. We have had owners groom their doodles themselves to save on costs, but it is certainly still a significant commitment to keep your dood looking fresh and mat-free! In conclusion, if you are prepared for a dog that enjoys an active lifestyle, lots of human interaction and mental stimulation and you have a plan for coat maintenance, the Goldendoodle is a great fit for you!

Website: Lucky Dog Labradoodles Before adopting a Labradoodle, you must be aware of the need for training, proper grooming, and feeding they require. Once you are ready to give one of the Labradoodle puppies in Massachusetts a forever home, contact the companies above based on your location. This book was published in , suggesting that the journey of these good-natured companions began in the s. They, however, received public popularity in when celebrities started to adopt them as pets. During the s, the Guide Dog Association of Australia started a program of breeding hypoallergenic dogs suitable for service training. An Australian breeder named Wally Conren was triumphant enough to produce a non-shedding guide dog with hybrid vigor. The lovely consequence of crossbreeding of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles gave birth to cute, easily trainable, and clever puppies. Moreover, Labradoodles have a history of becoming the delight and happiness of a family. Types Of Labradoodle Generations There can be some inconsistencies in the appearance and personality of Labradoodle puppies because they are a crossbred generation. The Labradoodle puppies in Massachusetts are biologically born through the means of heavy crossbreeding. The puppies will inherit traits and coats from their parent dogs. Every hereditary feature in the Labradoodle puppy will be determined by the genetics of the Poodle and the Labrador Retriever. This will make the puppy traits highly unpredictable. From being soft to being wiry, the fur type of Labradoodles can vary depending on parental traits. They are a highly energetic breed divided into six dominant categories. Therefore, before adopting a puppy from the 5 best Labradoodle breeders in Massachusetts, you should be acquainted with their generations. They will acquire a substantial amount of the cute curly coat of a Poodle. Puppies are born after the breeding of F1 and F1B generations. F2B Labradoodle Puppies born in this generation have both the dominant traits of the parent dogs. They are an amalgamation of F2 Labradoodles with the Standard Poodle, having .F3 Labradoodle This third generation of Labradoodle puppies tends to be the most unhealthy. These puppies are usually bred as a multi-generational cross between two F2 Labradoodle parents. F3B Labradoodle The cross between an F3 Labradoodle and a Poodle gives birth to a uniform and loosely coated generation of Labradoodles. Labradoodles are best-suited for you if you have a small-sized apartment or a large family. These cute furry creatures will be your best friend and accompany you with high spirit and love. They will provide you with stable mental support, and their playfulness will help stimulate your everyday life. Then, we can give you a few reasons that will solidify your choice. Intelligence: They are extremely smart and quick to learn. They are an intelligent dog breed. You will need to give them 15 minutes of proper training every day. Family Dog: They have a gentle and compassionate heart with a peaceful disposition. They are playful companions with a positive attitude towards children and other animals. Great Watchdogs: Even though they are calm and sweet, these furballs will fiercely protect you from harm. They are very territorial, making them the ideal protectors for your family. Hypoallergenic: Labradoodles shed less than other dogs or do not shed their fur at all. This amazing trait makes them the perfect companion for someone who is allergic to fur. Personality: They have an overall pleasant disposition, making them sweet and great with kids. They will get lonely or feel sad if left alone since they love being with the ones they adore. Adaptability: They have the strength of a Labrador and the intelligence of a Poodle, making them adaptable to different environments. A Labradoodle will incite happiness and joy in your home with their loyal and intelligent behavior. They are the perfect choice if you are looking for an affectionate family puppy. Final Words There is absolutely no doubt that Labradoodles are the most sought-after and beloved dog breeds. Labradoodles are known to be affectionate to their owners. These dogs have unique traits, which allow them to be fantastic guard and therapy dogs. They are suitable for fur allergic people as well. You can get a new family member from the 5 best Labradoodle breeders in Massachusetts who are reputed and trusted. Adopting the best Labradoodle puppies in Massachusetts will surely be rewarding. A Labradoodle will give you priceless memories in a year lifespan. These links are affiliate links, so if you do end up using the links, I will earn a commission. Dog Food: Every dog needs to eat correctly, and finding the best food for your dog can be challenging, as the market is absolutely flooded with products. What is the difference between a Labradoodle and a Cobberdog? What is a Cobberdog? The Australian Cobberdog has a low to non-shedding, allergy friendly coat. They are known for the intense eye contact and intuition. They are not aggressive, highly intelligent and have a great sense of humor and love to amuse. They were recognized as a breed in development in .Cobber is Australia means best buddy or best friend. How is the Cobberdog different than the Labradoodle? While they do share some ancestry with the original Labradoodle but have been developed with new genetic and DNA technology so that they are recognized in their own right. The focus on therapy dog temperament. Is the Cobberdog the right breed for you? If you are looking for a dog that is loving and adores being with their people, is very intelligent, allergy and asthma friendly, low to no shed coat and your best friend, then this breed is for you! They do require some grooming and have a nice wavy fleece coat that is relatively low maintenance. Unfortunately, because of its increasing popularity, some breeders started to change the genetic makeup of the Australian Labradoodle with their own ideas and infusions that were not intended to be part of the original makeup of the breed. Taking action, the breed founders have cultivated the true, original and authentic lineage and gene pool from the breed and developed, what we know today as, The Australian Cobberdog. Traits, temperament, coat, and health are consistent and the club members are all working towards the same common vision. MDBA members work to stay true to the breed. We are members of the MDBA and work to preserve and protect the true nature, lineage and genetic makeup of this great breed.

Begin your journey into the world of standard poodles here. Standard Poodles! Standard poodles are the most versatile dog in the world. You will see different variations in these tones. They are good with children if socialized with them and are not inclined to bite, but they do make good alert dogs. In other words, "They give you time to get your gun. People with allergies have a high tolerance for the poodle, making them well known as the ideal breed for people with allergies. Visit our litter page to see available puppies. Training High energy combined with lots of smarts lends itself to excellent companionship when properly trained. How to Train? Start early, using treats as a lure. How to Care? Companionship, quality puppy food, socialization. How to treat? A healthy puppy needs a nutritionally complete puppy food, fresh water, companionship, love and regular vet checkups to stay on top of things How to feed? We recommend Purina pro plan puppy How to walk? Do not pull or drag your puppy. How to equip? A light leash and narrow collar Decided? Questions about Poodle puppies for sale in Houston TX? We have answers. Give me an overview of Poodle puppies for sale in Houston TX. Uptown makes sure that you can afford a Poodle by giving you the option of breeders, companies and businesses that can offer different prices to you according to the size, color and experience of the breeder. Do your breeders arrange travel for Houston Poodles out of state? Of course! Since the businesses, breeders and companies are highly professional in what they do, finding the perfect families for their pups is the number one goal they have in mind. Therefore, they are used to organizing travel arrangements for the puppies that they love - and that includes transport by plane. How do you screen miniature Poodle breeders in Houston? We are really strict with breeders, companies and businesses that want to be affiliated with us. There is a strict screening process that they have to pass, they have to take a Breeder Pledge and we have the absolute strictest of standards in place. We look at how professional the breeders are and how well they take care of the dogs and puppies. Why is Uptown Puppies different from other miniature Poodle breeders Houston? We are different because we care so much. All that matters to us is that puppies connected to us through breeders, companies and businesses end up in happy homes where they will be well looked after for life. What is a puppy mill like for miniature Poodle Houston? Most people see dogs as lovely companions and members of the family. But, not puppy mills. The owners of these places look into the eyes of dogs and just see dollar signs. They stick dogs in cages, wait for them to produce litter after litter, and take the puppies away from their mothers when they are too young, causing many health complications. Are there any miniature Poodle puppies Houston for sale now? You just need to tell us a little bit about yourself as well as what you are looking for in your perfect pup and, in no time, you will have your perfect pup by your side. There are many different varieties to choose from, so just think carefully about the Poodle type you want, and it will be yours. What kind of dogs are mini Poodle puppies Houston? Poodles actually come from Germany and France. It has water as well as herding roots, which makes it a wonderful hunter in the water. How do I know I can trust you with miniature Poodle puppies in Houston? We are well aware that there are people out there wanting to sell you sick puppies for high prices. We pride ourselves on making sure that good relationships are achieved with both our customers as well as our breeders, companies and businesses. All we care about is that healthy puppies, end up in happy homes - for life! Exercise Grooming Looking at the life of a miniature poodle today, the jewelry, the bright-colored coats and the luxury they live in, one may be shocked that these pooches used to accompany hunters many years ago. They were developed in Germany but developed into their own distinct breed in the country of France. They were developed especially for waterfowl hunting. They are believed to be a hybrid of different water dogs from Europe. They are believed to be a result of crosses between Spanish, Russian, Hungarian, Portuguese, French and German water dogs. There are also different theories that link its ancestry to different parts of the world like Africa and Asia. One thing however clear is that the Miniature Poodle is a very old breed. There are illustrations of this breed on Egyptian and Roman artifacts and tombs. Many believe Miniature Poodles came hundreds of years later after the Standard Poodles. They are intelligent, loyal, loving and mischievous. Poodle enthusiasts describe them as having an air of distinction. Miniature Poodles have a daffy streak and love to play. They can however often get leery with strangers. They are shy and if not socialized with new people and animals at an early age, will grow up a little laid back. The Miniature Poodle is very protective of his family and is quick to bark whenever strangers approach your home. They are highly trainable and have high energy. Miniature Poodles require an environment of care and discipline. They can be raised in apartment homes because of their small stature. Early socialization is critical to their development. Without this, they will get scared easily and be aggressive at strangers. Take your Miniature Poodle for walks of about an hour. Play games of fetch with them, they love tasks that challenge them mentally. They were working dogs historically, so it is no wonder that they want something to occupy their bodies and minds. The Miniature Poodle is a safe choice for people with allergies. They are a non-shedding breed and they have been found to give allergic people no reaction at all. Their coat comes in several colors. Their colors include blue, black, white, gray, silver, brown, cream, etc. They are high maintenance dogs. Their beautiful coat can be trimmed, clipped, curled and generally manipulated into different lovely shapes. They require grooming every three to six weeks to keep their coat in good condition. They need to be bathed every three to six weeks. Poodles have weepy eyes and you will need to wipe the hair under their eyes often to get rid of this stain. Make sure you check their ear often to spot any developing infection for quick treatment. Our Miniature Poodle puppies for sale come from either USDA licensed commercial breeders or hobby breeders with no more than 5 breeding mothers. We only purchase puppies from the very best sources, and we stand behind every puppy we sell. No, they are not. Miniature Poodles are smaller than standard poodles but are bigger than Toy poodles. Do Miniature Poodles shed? You do not have to worry about shedding with Miniature Poodles as they do not shed at all. Are Miniature Poodles a hypoallergenic breed? They are highly hypoallergenic. Studies show they are the easiest to live with for people with allergies. When should your Miniature Poodle be spayed? Vets recommend that they should be spayed between the ages of four to nine months. Are Miniature Poodles good with kids? Miniature Poodles are great with kids if trained to socialize with them at an early age. Their looks give them the advantage of being treated nicely by kids which creates a good relationship between them and kids. Are Miniature Poodle easy to train? Yes, they are one of the easiest breeds to train. What are Miniature Poodles average life expectancy? Miniature Poodles live for as long as 15 years. Can Miniature Poodles become overweight? Like any other dog breed, if overfed, Miniature Poodles will become overweight if overfed and encouraged to lounge around for hours. This will cause them to joint problems. How big are Miniature Poodles? Miniature Poodles stand between 11 to 15 inches tall and weigh 15 lbs. Are Miniature Poodles particularly liable for any disease? Miniature Poodles are generally healthy. Are you interested in purchasing a Miniature Poodle? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. This method teaches them the strength of their jaw and the pain threshold for humans. This is vital if you hope to eventually use your German Shepherd for protection training. I learned it by closely watching 26 puppies grow up together over the course of 3 litters. When the puppy bites down on your skin, whine like a puppy until they let go. You are now speaking puppy, and they just learned that bite was too hard. They are going to bite you again. The next time they bite, they will almost definitely bite down with less strength. If the last bite was a 10, the next bite will be a 9. When they bite and it is too hard, yelp again. Repeat this process. It may last up to 7 days. At the end of it, the puppy will understand that human skin has a significantly lower threshold for pain than their rough and tough brothers and sisters. I have observed it on hundreds of occasions. This training method can be very difficult with small children. Bite on their hand and teach them to react properly if needed. Why this method is important If you smack your puppy they will probably stop biting you right away. But, they will then associate biting people as a bad thing. Do you want your puppy to be able to bite people some day? I would rather have a dog who understands right from wrong and comprehends the power of their teeth than a dog who is afraid of people. Fear is a terrible problem to have in a German Shepherd. In fact, most dogs who grow up to bite or attack people do so out of fear. Your vet or trainer is wrong Anyone who disagrees with this method may indeed have an effective method but they have clearly not spent time with puppies who were developing in the week old range. If someone says this method does not work, they are wrong, pure and simple. All of the other training articles on this website are authored by a certified dog trainer. But not this one — I wanted to write it myself. But do not expect this dog to ever protect you in the future. Despite the fact that play biting, or mouthing, is normal dog behavior and may be cute at 8 weeks, if not curbed, as the dog grows, it can become downright painful and a nuisance to get under control. The correction is very simple-the puppy on the receiving end of the painful bite will yelp and stop paying with the offending puppy. After a beat or two, the play resumes but this lesson eventually teaches the pups how to control the intensity of their bites on each other. Controlling mouthing, along with house training, is usually one of the first lessons puppies learn and it takes time, consistency, and patience to get past this phase of life. There are usually two types of dog owners, those that allow some play biting and those that allow none. Teaching a dog not to bite human skin is the purpose of this article and has many benefits to the dog and owner. How to teach your dog to stop mouthing: Very young puppies explore their worlds with their mouths and will need continuous training and reminders. When a young puppy bites hard, let out a loud yelp and allow your hand to go limp. That sends the message that the game is over for the moment. You can expect your puppy to resume play and each time he bites too hard, you will repeat the yelp to get his attention and praise the moment he stops biting. If this is not effective for the young puppy, when the puppy bites hard, yelp and when he lets go remove your hand for 15 seconds. This will teach the puppy that rough play ends the fun but gentle play continues it. As the puppy grows, training him to stop biting skin can begin. How to teach a puppy to stop biting skin: Substitute a chew toy when the puppy gets too rough or bites fingers and toes. When the puppies is overexcited and play bites when being handled or petted, feed treats or distract with a toy while you handle him. Encourage age appropriate play, chase the ball or tug rather than biting your hands. If the puppy bites your pant legs, shoes, ankles, and feet, offer a tug as an alternative. Carry the tug with you during puppy training or play times. Provide a variety of toys and textures for the puppy to explore. If possible, allow the puppy to play with other puppies or friendly dogs. As the puppy grows, if he bites our skin, continue to yelp and stop the play. As he matures, you can also turn your back on the puppy to stop play. Never entice your puppy to bite by smacking his face or waving your fingers in front of him. Never use your hand as a tug toy or allow him to pull on your body parts. Your goal is to startle your dog so he stops playing and mouthing for 10 to 20 seconds. Once your dog has learned to control his bite pressure the next step is to teach him to stop mouthing completely. When your dog gently mouths you, begin yelping and redirecting him to a chew toy whenever he touches your skin. If he continues to put his mouth on your skin then yelp and walk away from him for 30 to 60 seconds. Continue playing games and redirecting him with toys until he stops mouthing. If your dog is still mouthing you after you've tried all of these training options then you may want to try redirecting him by putting dog repellent sprays or bad tasting mouth wash on your hands. The last thing you want to happen is to frustrate your dog and have him become aggressive or fearful of you. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share!