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We have answers. What are Labrador Retriever puppies for sale near Gilbert like? A Labrador Retriever is a medium-sized breed of dog that originally comes from Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada. These dogs are intelligent, loyal, affectionate, and active, and still make a wonderful family pet. Labradors are also well-known for their friendliness, as they adore playing with children. They are even one of the most popular breeds of dog, not just in the U. Labradors can be trained to do many things, from retrieving to hunting. How can I manage allergies with Labrador Retriever puppies for sale in Gilbert? Managing allergies with Labrador Retrievers begins with knowledge about the breed. As a double-coated breed, Labs are known for having a high level of shedding, which causes dander to spread throughout the home. If you or anyone in your household is prone to allergies, it is important to ask the breeder for information about the parents and grandparents of the puppy. Based on the information they provide, you can predict how much the pup will shed. Additionally, regularly grooming your Labrador with the appropriate shampoo for their coat type will help manage allergies, too. Do Gilbert Labrador Retriever puppies for sale have special dietary needs? Yes, Labrador Retrievers do have some special dietary requirements. While they can generally do well on any high-quality dry dog food, Labradors may be prone to getting overweight. Because of this, it is important to balance calorie intake and exercise. They are also at risk for becoming obese, so owners should avoid giving them too many treats or table scraps. Additionally, Labradors need a high-protein diet that is enriched with essential fatty acids to promote a healthy coat and skin. Supplementing their diet with particular vitamins or minerals may also help to support their growth and development. What are some essentials I should buy before getting Labrador Retriever puppies in Gilbert? Before getting a Labrador Retriever, it is important to stock up on some essentials. A high-quality food designed specifically for large breed puppies is important as it will provide the proper nutrients needed during the growth period. An adjustable collar and leash for taking them on walks is also a must. Soft bedding, chew toys, treats, and water bowls are other essentials that will be needed. Don't forget to pick up items to help with potty training and grooming, such as puppy pads, shampoo and brushes. How fast do Labrador Retrievers for sale in Gilbert grow? No two Labrador Retriever puppies will be exactly the same size, so accurately determining just how big your pup will become can be difficult. Generally, Labradors reach their full size and maturity around one to two years of age. Male Labradors usually end up between .How much exercise do Labrador Retriever puppies near Gilbert need? Labrador Retrievers, or Labradors, are highly active dogs that require a significant amount of exercise each day. The recommended daily exercise for Labradors is approximately 60 to 90 minutes to ensure they remain healthy and well-behaved. If the exercise is split into two or more sessions, daily walks highly recommended, as they will provide needed mental stimulation in addition to the physical exercise. It is advisable to keep the walks moderate in length at first, then gradually increase them to longer durations. Do Labrador Retrievers in Gilbert get along with kids? Labrador Retrievers are known to be extremely gentle and patient with children due to their naturally sweet temperament. They are outgoing, friendly, and always eager to please, making them the perfect companion for kids of all ages. Labs love playing with their young human friends, accompanying them for walks or hikes, or just snuggling with them on the couch. Best of all, they are exceptionally intelligent and trainable, so teaching them basic commands or teaching them to stay in the yard with the kids won't be an issue. How many minutes per day do I need to train Gilbert Labrador Retrievers for sale? Training Labrador Retrievers requires patience and consistency and the amount of time you should train them in any one day will vary significantly depending on the desired level of training. As a general guidance, experts suggest starting with just a few minutes around of structured training sessions each day and gradually building up that time, week by week, until the pup is more used to training activities. Eventually, you could expect to commit around 30 minutes per day to teaching them basic commands or more advanced skills. Pet Keen is reader-supported. When you buy via links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission at no cost to you. Learn more. We understand there are many reasons for seeking a breeder, though, so we encourage it to be done the right way. We have not personally investigated all of the breeders below, rather, we have gathered their details for you to get in touch and ask all the right questions before you decide. Learn more about our position and how to choose a breeder here. Labrador Retriever breeders are a dime a dozen in many parts of the United States, which can make finding a puppy incredibly easy. However, finding a healthy puppy from a reputable breeder with proven dogs is rare. The 5 Labrador Retriever Breeders in Arizona 1. Graves Labradors Check graveslabradors. Their dogs are English Labradors and old breeding lines, maximizing genetic diversity and ensuring health. All breeding dogs are health tested and puppies are seen by a veterinarian before going to new homes. Their puppies are raised in the home with doggy door training. They are socialized to children and other dogs, as well as being exposed to loud noises. This breeder was a Certified Veterinary Technician for 15 years, so she has plenty of experience in the veterinary field. All puppies come with a health guarantee, ensuring you get the healthiest pup possible. They have been breeding Labradors since and all puppies are exposed to children and other animals, including horses. They may also have swimming experience when they go to their new homes. All puppies are examined by a veterinarian before going to new homes, and they receive some of their first vaccines, a microchip, and deworming. My Lab Puppies Check mylabpuppies. All of their breeding dogs are either therapy or service dogs, or they have achieved their Canine Good Citizen certification through the AKC. They are also health tested to ensure they will produce healthy pups. Their puppies all go through their puppy program, which involves prenatal care and early introductions to a variety of sensations. This program also allows you to bond with your new puppy and get them used to your scent. Chiricahua Retrievers Check chiricahuaretrievers. All of their breeding dogs are either show champions or field trial winners in their pedigrees, ensuring they are breeding high quality dogs. All pups are raised underfoot around people, ensuring they are well socialized when they go to new homes. They can ship puppies anywhere in the US, including Hawaii and Alaska, and can ship to Canada as well. Zona Labradors Check zonalabradors. All breeding dogs are health tested and have OFA hip and elbow clearance. When your puppy goes home, it will already have the early stages of bell training before house training gets started. You May Also Like:. They are also regularly tested for parasites and preventively treated. All puppies come with a full written health guarantee which covers hip and elbow dysplasia, heart murmurs, EIC, CNM, and eyes. All of this health testing insures you have a healthy, sound family member for years to come. You can pay up front for a sound guaranteed dog, or you may pay MORE later for a puppy that has one of these medical problems. Please do not support unexperienced breeders that are not properly testing their dogs. This leads to the potential of so much pain and suffering that is preventable. My love for animals has been life long. I was a Certified Veterinary Technician for 15 years, mostly working in a small animal hospital. I also received an Animal Science degree. My husband and I are Arizona natives and are located in the beautiful desert of North Phoenix. We live on property with our dogs and horses. Our labs enjoy our swimming pool and room to run. They are truly part of our family. Our puppies are raised in our home with us where they received lots of love and attention by our 2 daughters and many nieces and nephews. Contact us to schedule a visit and for our physical address. This is our mailing address but we live near this location.

If you click and purchase, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Bernedoodles make amazing family companions, or even excellent service or therapy dogs. Thanks to its sweet temperament and low-shedding coat, the Bernedoodle has become one of the most popular Doodle breeds. Unfortunately, many people are still getting scammed by puppy mills that are well-known for their unethical breeding practices. An ethical breeder will be transparent with any of their documentation. In addition to that, they back their promises with genetic health guarantees that are usually applicable from one to three years from adoption. As they proudly say, they treat their dogs as family members first and breeding partners second, and each puppy is raised in a safe family environment. As a responsible Bernedoodle breeder in Illinois, Central Illinois Doodles screens all of their parent dogs for various genetic conditions and orthopedic health. In addition to that, they only breed temperament-tested dogs with loving personalities. What Makes This Breeder Unique? They begin socializing the puppies from day one, and they introduce the pups to different stimulating activities and exercises. Testimonials Hollie Mable is a very sociable, sweet, and well mannered doodle. She loves all other dogs and people too. She is always up for hiking in the mountains or snuggling on the couch. She does very well on and off leash and she is non-shedding. She is the perfect dog and so happy to have her as part of my family. Purchasing Dakota could not have gone any smoother. It was a very easy transaction, and Erin supplied me with a folder of information about Dakota including his shots record and a health guarantee. While waiting to get Dakota, Erin was great about sending me pictures of him and his siblings. She would regularly give me updates on how he was doing, and I felt like I knew him before I met him. It was obvious when I did get Dakota how loved and cared for he was. He was a very happy and social puppy from day one. He transitioned beautifully into our home with my kids and other dog. He is three now and still the happiest and sweetest dog! I have had absolutely no issues with his health or temperament. I would absolutely get another dog from Pecan Hill Puppies again! The Brownings Piper is the best dog ever. She is energetic, playful, and very smart. She loves to be by my side whether that is cuddling on the couch or taking a trip to town for ice cream. Piper has brought a lot of love and laughter into our lives. Contact Us. For allergy-friendly needs, F1b puppies are optimal Standard-sized need space to stretch Mini or tiny sizes available for smaller spaces see puppies Why Should I Get a Bernedoodle Puppy? Like many other types of Doodles, the Bernedoodle breed is well known for its high intelligence, loyalty, great health, and longevity. As loyal as they can be, the Bernedoodle is quite gentle and goofy when it comes to their personalities. With such a big and loving heart, the Bernedoodles can also serve exceptionally well as guard dogs. Bernedoodles are also incredibly friendly dogs and great around children, which makes them a fantastic family dog breed! Why Central Illinois Doodles? Our Bernedoodle pups are also raised according to the highest ethical standards and undergo early socialization, ensuring they grow healthy, well-mannered, and incredibly friendly. And if you need proof, the insurance of health warranty backs up our Bernedoodle Puppies. No matter what you may call them nicknames include Bernese Mountain dog poodle mix, the Bernese Mountain Poo, the Bernedoodle, the Berne-doodle, and even just the Doodle , the mini Bernedoodle is the perfect companion for all lifestyles. Check out our Bernedoodles for sale at Central Illinois Doodles today. We are one of the best Bernedoodle dog breeders in the Midwest, helping you find your high-quality Bernedoodle companion. History of Bernedoodles As covered, the Bernedoodle is a mixed dog breed. Due to their pedigree, Bernedoodles are very affectionate , incredibly loyal, and good-natured, which are the traits they inherit from Bernese Mountain Dogs. Bernedoodle puppies are also very well-mannered, a trait common among Poodles. At least not to the level this magnificent breed deserves. Bred from Great Mastiffs and other types of guard dog breeds, the Bernese Mountain Dog was brought over to Switzerland approximately 2, years ago by the Romans. Aside from being known for having a loving personality, these breeds are only one of the four kinds of Sennenhund-type dogs from the Swiss Alps. These dogs were generally known as farm dogs that worked hard. Eventually, the Bernese Mountain Dog breed mixed with the Poodle breed led to the creation of the incredible Bernedoodle dog breed. Types of Bernedoodles. Very healthy with no serious illnesses due to hybrid genes Long lifespan of years Very loyal, gentle, docile creatures Great family dogs Great with children, people, and other dogs Highly intelligent - Bernedoodles rank among the smartest dogs Easy to train and eager to please Enjoy spending time with humans, making them excellent companions Low-to-no shedding! One of the few larger dog breeds that hardly shed Allergy-friendly coats Make excellent service animals or emotional support dogs - Bernedoodles can be trained for conditions like PTSD and anxiety disorders Bernedoodle Sizes You may mistakenly assume that all Bernedoodles are very large animals. This is not the case, as Mini Bernedoodle puppies can come in a range of sizes depending on the size of their parents. Here are the sizes of our Bernedoodles. The curlier their coats, the more allergy-friendly they will be. Typically, F1 Bernedoodles are suitable if you have a mild allergy. Some will have wavy hair with loose curls very similar to F1 Bernedoodle puppies and will be very low to non-shedding. The others will have curlier hair like their poodle fathers and also be non-shedding. By two to three weeks of age, the different coat types can be properly identified. Curly coated F1B Bernedoodles are best for people with moderate or severe allergies. Also, the Bernedoodle is low to non-shedding, making it a good choice of breed if you suffer from allergies. Bernedoodles are loyal dogs, with fun-loving, gentle, and often goofy personalities. Due to their nature, Bernedoodles make great guard dogs and are very attached to their owners and families. Bernedoodles are also highly intelligent and therefore are very easy to train. Bernedoodles are good with children and excellent family dogs. Bernedoodles need less exercise and are overall more docile and less energetic than Aussiedoodles, but they still enjoy walking and playing outdoors. You should choose a Bernedoodle if you have a slightly less active lifestyle and love a dog with a gentle, calm demeanor that requires less exercise. If you suffer from allergies, Bernedoodles may be a great option, as their Poodle parents make their coats allergy-friendly. Bernedoodles also shed much less than their Bernese Mountain Dog parents, which is a huge bonus for most people. The curlier the coat, the less shedding and the more allergy-friendly they will be. Bernedoodle puppies are easy to train because they are highly intelligent and are often used as service or emotional support dogs. Bernedoodles enjoy learning new things and are generally happy, easy-going, and eager to please their owners. When it comes to new tricks, Bernedoodle puppies will learn fast and will be able to keep up with you, making training a breeze. Their calm, affectionate demeanor and generally adaptable sensibilities make them highly resilient creatures who adjust well to changes in the family such as new children or new living environments. Bernedoodle puppies tend to take their cues from their owners about new situations and people. The Bernedoodle is a healthy breed and they do not suffer from any life-threatening diseases as long as they are given the proper nutrition and exercise. Bernedoodle puppies are a great choice for people with more active lifestyles or children. Available Bernedoodles Everyone wants the perfect puppy. You are looking for the puppy you can love, and the one who will love you back with unconditional puppy love. We understand and will help you find the puppy that is just right for you and your family! Our family raises adorable Tiny, Mini, and Standard Bernedoodle puppies. We provide our puppies with loving care from day 1 and ensure the puppies stay healthy, allowing us to present you with a happy, active puppy dog pal. We are best at producing Tri-colored Mini and Standard Bernedoodles and our puppies make great companions and playmates. Browse our website to see photos of Bernedoodle puppies for sale. We also picture many of the puppies who have found their forever homes. Learn about our family, our puppies and their parents, and how you can become the proud owner of a new puppy! Our puppies go to their forever home with the following: Prepaid ICA Registration Health certificate from our vet Up to date on vaccinations Up to date on dewormers Micro chipped 2 year genetic health guarantee Dew claws removed. Learn more Island Grove is based on an acre farm in beautiful countryside. Here, the family has been breeding Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles for over nine years and has established a good reputation as a reliable breeder. The Poodle and Bernese Mountain dog parent dogs are all health-screened for the genetic conditions that can affect the breeds, so you know that your pup will enjoy a problem-free future. What Influences Bernedoodle Prices? Curly coats are also the best option for you if you hate vacuuming! However, those qualities push the price of those puppies right up, and you can expect to pay top dollar for one of those cute tiny Teddies. Some coat colors are also worth more, especially if the puppies have unusual markings. Breeder Reputation Generally, a breeder with an excellent reputation will charge more for their pups than a new breeder who has yet to make their mark on the industry. Puppies whose parents are health-screened for the most common genetic diseases are usually pricier than those not. We strongly recommend that you only consider buying a puppy from a breeder that can prove their breeding dogs are clear of congenital health conditions that could be passed on to their offspring. Beware Puppy Mills and Backyard Breeders! Unfortunately, the demand for designer dogs has pushed up the price of puppies to eyewatering levels. That demand has also seen the emergence of unscrupulous operations known as puppy mills or puppy farms. Puppy farms produce as many puppies as quickly as possible to catch the current designer breed trend. By this time, the backyard breeder has long disappeared. Puppy Mill Red Flags There are lots of puppy mills that advertise their puppies online. Even the savviest puppy hunter can fall victim to a scammer, especially when confronted by a pair of gorgeous, cute puppy eyes! But how do you spot a backyard breeder or puppy mill? Here are some glaring red flags to be alert to! Cut and Paste Puppy mills often use the same advertisements. Look out for ads with the exact text used to advertise multiple breeds. Puppies should be eight weeks old before they can be vaccinated. So, if the advert says that the pups are younger than that and have been vaccinated, the advertiser is probably a puppy mill. Too Cheap As previously mentioned, designer puppies are pretty pricey. So, if you find an advert for a puppy that appears extremely cheap, the chances are the breeder is a puppy mill. Where To Meet Backyard breeders typically expect you to meet them somewhere random, such as in a deserted parking lot or even in a gas station. Photoshop A common ploy used by puppy farms is to use videos and photos of random puppies on their websites. No Waiting! Most reputable breeders have a waiting list for their puppies, often for years or even longer. Health Screening Certificates A premier Doodle breeder will be glad to produce health screening certificates for both the parent dogs. Those certificates should show that the puppies will be free from any genetic disorders associated with the parent breeds. You should also receive vaccination documentation, deworming, and flea and tick prevention paperwork. Insist on seeing the puppies with their mom and watching how the pups behave around her. On arrival, my friend asked if they could see the puppies with their mom and meet the dad, too. Dad was apparently away from the kennels on stud duties elsewhere! When I was puppy hunting some years ago, I spotted a likely advert on the net and phoned the breeder to ask for more information about the puppies and arrange to go and view them. The reply was dismissive, and I was told that I would have no trouble selling the puppy to someone else as it was super cute and very well-bred! Needless to say, I walked away. Contract Of Sale A reputable breeder usually insists that buyers of their pups sign a formal contract of sale. The report has a list of backyard breeders and puppy mills that have been shut down or sued for malpractice. Final Thoughts I hope you enjoyed our guide to finding the perfect Bernedoodle puppy in Illinois. If you found the article helpful, please remember to share it. If possible, go for a breeder that offers a two-year health guarantee. Did you find a beautiful Bernedoodle through one of the Illinois breeders we featured here? Tell us your story in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment.

He loves people, is good with other dogs, is housebroken, crate trained, and knows some basic commands. Bulldogs ARE expensive. They have lots of health issues and medical needs. As we mentioned, Bo is a typical bulldog. That means he has daily prescription allergy medication he needs to take, he has food sensitivities, he will destroy most toys and try to ingest them if he isn't supervised or is given a destructible toy. He doesn't like loud noises and will bite the vacuum, lawn mower, drill, et cetera - so extra steps to keep him safe and secure need to be taken. Every day he needs his wrinkles cleaned and his butt wiped - typical English Bulldog. Bo would do best in a home familiar with the breed. Bo has never been around children and with his history would do best in an adult-only home with young dogs to play with and a family committed to helping him be the very best he can be. We do not adopt out dogs as gifts Small right facing arrow These pups are in Reno, Nevada too! Below are our newest added English Bulldogs available for adoption in Reno, Nevada. To see more adoptable English Bulldogs in Reno, Nevada, use the search tool below to enter specific criteria! Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. We have answers. Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? Dogs come in all shapes and sizes, but Frenchies are definitely unique. Their narrow hips make breeding them a bit more difficult than other dogs. They must be artificially inseminated and usually give birth via C-section. This means that Frenchie breeders must be especially skilled and experienced. At Uptown Puppies, we only work with the best breeders in the business. We have a strict screening process to make sure that all of our partners adhere to our high standards of puppy care. That means no puppy mills - only responsible, ethical breeders who pledge to treat their puppies humanely. Do you work with puppy mills? There is no denying that puppy mills are detrimental to both the puppies and their new owners. Dogs bred in these conditions are often sickly and have behavioral problems, making them a costly investment in the long run. If you're considering adding a puppy to your family, please do your research and choose a responsible breeder. Your furry friend will thank you for it. If you're looking for a low-maintenance dog that's perfect for apartment living, a French Bulldog is an excellent choice. These friendly pups are relatively small, and they don't require a lot of exercise, making them ideal for city dwellers. Additionally, French Bulldogs have short, fine coats that shed less than other breeds. French Bulldogs are the perfect dogs for people who wish their pooch was a little lazy and pint-sized. They don't need much exercise and their short coats make them low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. If you're looking for a laid-back dog that will be content lounging around your home, a French Bulldog is a great choice. Are French Bulldogs a working breed? Looking for a family-friendly pet that will make you laugh? Look no further than the French Bulldog! These goofy pups are not only incredibly adorable, but they also have loving and sweet personalities. Perfect for families of all shapes and sizes, a French Bulldog will quickly become a cherished member of your household. Will my French Bulldog for sale in Reno snore? While many dog breeds are known for their snoring, Frenchies are certainly among the most notorious. Their squished faces make it easy to understand why they struggle to keep their breathing passages clear. If you're planning on sharing a room with your Frenchie, be prepared for some serious snoring! Reno Frenchies have docked tails, right? Docking tails is a practice that has come under scrutiny in recent years. Many believe that it is cruel and unnecessary, however there are some breeds who are born with naturally short tails. The French Bulldog is one such breed. Their tails can vary in length from curly to nubs, but they are all born with a stubby tail to match their stubby body. So if you were concerned about breeders docking your puppy's tail, don't be. Can French Bulldog puppies Reno handle hot weather? Dogs with shortened snouts, like Pugs and Boston Terriers, require special care in hot weather. Their shortened snouts make it difficult for them to pant and cool off as other dogs do. Ensure your pooch has access to air conditioning during summer months to keep them comfortable. What is a fluffy French Bulldog Reno? Looking for a French Bulldog with a difference? Why not go for a fluffy version! Although this look is relatively rare, there are breeders out there who specifically cater to those looking for a long-haired French Bulldog. Just be aware that this type of dog may be harder to come by than the standard short-haired variety. Do you like French Bulldogs? They are definitely some of the most interesting looking dogs out there. But that's not all they offer — French Bulldogs also have great personalities, making them perfect dogs for families. And since they're pint-sized, they're suitable for both city and rural families who might not have a lot of space. If you're looking for a travel companion that won't require a lot of work, consider a French Bulldog. They're small, don't shed much, and are relatively inactive. Plus, they love cuddling! Just be aware that French Bulldogs don't do well in hot weather.

Buying a Doberman Shepherd puppy for a very low price usually indicates they came from a puppy mill. Here are some reputable breeders where you may find Doberman Shepherd puppies for sale: AKC Marketplace — A great way to find a Doberman German Shepherd mix is to trace it back to its parent dogs. Vom Hismerh German Shepherds and Dobermans — Having been in the industry since , this breeder imports their top-quality dogs straight from Germany. All of their dogs are of show quality and free of defects, ensuring that your next Doberman Shepherd mix is healthy. A quick search on this site yields over a hundred listings for Doberman Shepherd puppies! Aside from the sources above, check out our comprehensive list of Doberman and German Shepherd breeders for more options. You might be able to score local shepherd dogs near you! If it seems complicated to find a reputable breeder in your area, or if you want to save some cash, you can try your luck with adopting Doberman Shepherd puppies instead. Illinois Doberman Rescue Plus — While this non-profit organization primarily focuses on Dobermans, they also accept other official breeds and mixed breeds. If you adopt a Doberman Shepherd from this rescue, you can be assured that your future companion dog is already neutered, vaccinated, and treated for heartworms. To help you further, check your local German Shepherd rescues since they are more likely to cater to mix breeds than Doberman Pinscher rescues. As a bonus, check out our ultimate dog adoption guide. Here, you can learn extremely helpful tips about acquiring rescue dogs to make adoption a breeze! First, here are the advantages of owning a Doberman German Shepherd mix: Their appearance is enough protection. While most dog owners are simply in awe of the striking looks of the Doberman Shepherd, some people are intimidated by this dog breed. Being seen with this loyal guard dog may be enough to deter robbers. Doberman Shepherds are natural bodyguards. They may act all soft and friendly with human family members, but this dog will go head-on with any threats. Although the Doberman Shepherd has more potential to harm humans than other dogs, they receive commands quite well. Training will be even easier since they make it a goal to please their masters. Indeed, the Doberman Shepherd is a good balance of brains and brawn. Now, here are the disadvantages of owning a Doberman German Shepherd mix: Their size might be too much. A mix of this size is challenging for first-time dog owners. Apart from consuming a lot of food, Doberman German Shepherds are prone to breaking items in your home if bored. Additionally, a larger dog can be brushed and bathed more often due to its larger stature. Doberman Shepherds may develop serious health problems. Doberman German Shepherds are prone to various severe health problems. Moreover, most of their diseases are very expensive to treat and require intense medical attention. They have higher energy levels compared to other dogs. Doberman German Shepherds are indeed the offspring of two highly energetic parent breeds. If you cannot keep up with such liveliness, you might end up with chewed-up furniture and broken glassware. Doberman Shepherds have both advantages and disadvantages strongly correlated with their size and intelligence. Other Canine Clubs Adoptapet. You could also attend professional dog shows, contact or join dog clubs, or talk with a veterinarian who may know or refer a Doberman German Shepherd mix breeder to you. Since the dog would appear like its Doberman parent dog, its short hair does not result in excessive shedding. The Doberman German Shepherd does not like bathing in water, so the dog should be trained to tolerate bath time during puppyhood. This dog shampoo is biodegradable and made of a coconut cleanser, oatmeal, and aloe. It is made of aloe and oatmeal and helps in maintaining a healthy and shiny coat for the dog. The dog shampoo also has a pine scent and is a hundred percent satisfaction guaranteed. Do not forget about maintaining the nails of the dog. Just like many dogs, the Doberman German Shepherd mix also needs its nails trimmed using specialized nail clippers for dogs. The occasional cleaning of the ears and brushing of the teeth should be done as well. Regular exercises and occasional visits to the vet is recommended to prevent the following health problems: Cardiomyopathy. This umbrella term covers both Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy. Dilated Cardiomyopathy, or Enlarged Heart, is a disease that affects internal organs and results in lung and heart failure. Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy, or Heart Disease, is a rare case of blood distribution problems by the heart in dogs. The symptoms of Cardiomyopathy include abnormal breathing patterns, anorexia, lethargy, coughing, blueish skin discoloration, and loss of awareness. Wobbler Syndrome. Scientifically named as Cervical Spondylomyelopathy, wobble syndrome is a predisposed condition in large dog breeds such as the Doberman Pinscher. It is described by a bone malformation in the cervical spine which is located on the neck of the dog, resulting in wobbly walking and neck pain. Hip Dysplasia. This is a genetic illness that is common to many dogs in general. In other cases, obesity and improper nutrition and diet can contribute to the development of hip dysplasia as well. The hip joints of the dog slowly deteriorate and could result in skeletal malformation. Megaesophagus is generally characterized by the enlargement of the esophagus in dogs. It is a congenital or inborn, disease that causes problems in traveling food from the mouth to the stomach. Some signs and symptoms include vomiting, weight loss, anorexia, and bad breath. Degenerative Myelopathy. This disease is described as the slow degeneration of the spinal cord in the dog. It may eventually result in paralysis as well. Warning signs include a steady weakness of hind limbs, stumbling, inability to stand, muscle atrophy, poor hygiene, stress, and depression. Separation Anxiety. Part of viewing a health issue should not only remain within the physical aspect. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is also prone to mental disorders like separation anxiety. This occurs when its owner spends less time with the dog despite its deep attachment and loyalty with the person. The Doberman German Shepherd mix does not necessarily have any health issues or illnesses that were explicitly pointed out. Nevertheless, the sicknesses and health problems that were mentioned above can still be passed on to the offspring derived from the genes of both parent dogs. Doberman Shepherds Food Requirements As a big and energetic breed, the Doberman German Shepherd mix may eat plenty of food and become obese if the dog is not supplemented with proper nutrition and a balanced diet. It needs to consume substantial amounts of protein and a moderate amount of carbohydrates and fats and is fed twice a day depending on the activities that the dog did during the day. Feeding your German Shepherd Chow mix should have a balanced diet just like any other dog. You should consult with your veterinarian about these dog foods and devise a holistic dietary plan. Too much protein is too much calorie for the dog and may result in too much weight. Your hairy companion deserves the best, so choose the highest-quality dry dog food in the market you can find. Whelps need the energy to be active, and lots of vitamins and minerals too. Food that rounds off everything their body needs is on the best puppy food brands list. Older canines have different necessities, so take a look at the best senior dry dog food list. It will help them stay strong and show off proudly. You can also find useful ideas on the best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food lists, which may contain some food that your pooch will adore. German Dobermans Exercise Requirements This is an active and energetic dog with parent dogs that were bred for working. The Doberman German Shepherd mix requires a substantial amount of exercise to channel and release its stored energy. Intellectual activities are also sufficient sources of mental stimulation for the dog. Below are some activities for the dog: Racing. A team of four dogs is set on the course that fetches a tennis ball through an obstacle course and returns the ball to its handler. The first team to complete the task with all their dogs wins. Like the Doberman and the German Shepherd, the Doberman German Shepherd mix can significantly benefit from this activity. Since most dogs live in urban settings, herding allows the dog an opportunity to utilize its herding instincts that were long unused. Military Training. Sending the dog to the military is an advantage for the dog to act on command and the owner to gain leadership points. On the softer side, the dog may be used as a service dog for war veterans or soldiers who are suffering from PTSD. Scenting or Tracking Games. The German Shepherd parent dog side of the German Shepherd Chow mix was tracking dogs that loved to hunt things. Some games include finding the treat, hide and seek, and find the toy. Both the Doberman and the German Shepherd are renowned guarding dogs and, and its offspring are more likely to display aggressive behavior towards suspicions and threats. The dog should learn how to safely interact with different people and animals, especially with children. Here are some training methods that you could apply to the dog: Socialization. The Doberman German Shepherd mix is a dog with a bold disposition. The dog needs to be exposed with children and other animals and dogs as a puppy to help expand its sense of protectiveness and guarding instincts towards others. The dog will eventually learn new social skills and become more mature to regulate its aggressive tendency. Positive Reinforcement. Rewarding your dog while teaching it commands can come a long way to its relationship with you. You give your dog a reward such as a treat or a toy whenever it successfully responds to your command but gives it nothing until it learns how to react correctly to your call. Puppy Training. The most important part of training the dog as a puppy is giving it your time and company. This should teach your dog the value of your bond with it and will soon acknowledge you as its alpha. Let it play with toys that you give so that it learns that being with you is a rewarding experience. Knowing how to address this reaction of the dog on its guarding instincts is vital before it grows older. But the Doberman German Shepherd mix is also a loyal and affectionate dog once it grows up. It may even feel emotional when its owner deprives the dog of reciprocation or companionship. They make excellent guard dogs and make intruders think twice before barging into your house. The dog needs a backyard space to deplete its energy levels throughout the day. It is not an ideal dog for people living in an apartment since the dog may always feel insecure and wary of strangers that walk the hallways every day. It may even act more aggressively to different people who you interact with and affect your social life as well. If your family lives in colder states and have fewer opportunities to bring out the dog, then it is not a suitable dog for you. Altogether, the Doberman German Shepherd mix makes a fearsome but loving family dog. The important thing to remember is that it is a dog that will protect the family with its life no matter how dangerous the situation could escalate References:. Should a Doberman Mix take after their Doberman Pinscher parent, they will be a large, powerful, and protective dog that is affectionate with their families. They may look imposing as they grow, but they are playful, energetic dogs that can make great family pets. Doberman Pinschers are quintessential protectors. As such, they require a lot of training and socialization to become a happy, well-balanced, and well-mannered dog. A properly socialized and trained Doberman is fiercely loyal to their families and is also a loving companion with a fun personality. As long as they are properly trained and socialized, they tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and even other pets. If a Doberman Mix takes after their Doberman Pinscher parent, then you can expect a similar temperament. However, the other parent breed will likely introduce some other potential traits and quirks, so you do want to ask the breeder about them. You can also meet the mother dog in-person to get an idea of her temperament and to see the behavior she is modeling for her puppies. The breeder should be starting socialization and training. Dobermans are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their large size and high energy, they are better suited to homes with yards where they can run. They can adapt to apartment living, but you will need to dedicate a lot of time every day to making sure they get the exercise and attention they need to be happy and healthy. Doberman Pinschers do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Because of their short coat, they may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm on walks during the winter. They also do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. If the other parent breed is similar in terms of adaptability, then you can expect the same from a Doberman Mix. You still want to ask the breeder about the other parent breed so you have a better idea of what mix of traits and quirks a Doberman Mix puppy could end up with. Mixed-breed dogs are sometimes healthier than purebred dogs. The other parent breed will have their own set of potential health concerns, so you want to ask the breeder about them. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to help avoid passing issues on to puppies. So, you should be planning to ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents anyway. You can also ask about any relevant health tests or clearances that have been done. Doberman Pinschers are also one of the dog breeds at a higher risk for developing bloat and a Doberman Mix will likely have the same risk. Bloat in dogs is a serious condition that can quickly become fatal if gastric torsion occurs. Although Dobermans are highly intelligent dogs that pick up on things quickly and are eager to please, they are also strong, powerful dogs with a strong will as well. If they are not socialized properly or well-trained, they can become unmanageable, destructive, and pushy. Because of this, a Doberman Pinscher is usually better suited to more experienced owners. Novice owners can do well with this breed, but obedience classes or enlisting the help of a professional trainer is highly recommended. The other parent breed could make a Doberman Mix easier or more difficult to train. Make sure you ask the breeder about them and then be prepared to enroll in training classes either way. A mixed-breed dog can inherit a coat similar to one of their parent breeds or a coat that is truly a mix of both. Should a Doberman Mix end up with a Doberman coat, it will be short and will shed a little year-round. A quick daily brushing and the occasional bath is enough to keep this coat healthy. Good dental care for dogs is often overlooked, which is why gum disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. Brushing teeth or using an enzyme toothpaste every day helps prevent painful dental diseases later in life. A Doberman Pinscher is a high-energy dog breed that needs a lot of exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run or another activity are usually enough for this dog. But, they are happy to be active with you, so they will likely be up for activity if you are. These dogs are powerful, athletic, and versatile. So, once puppies finish growing , you can try a wide variety of activities with them. You can try hiking, swimming, running, playing frisbee, training for dog sports, and more. If the other parent breed is also a high-energy dog breed, then you can expect your Doberman Mix to be a high-energy dog as well. Even if the other parent breed has a lower activity level, you will still need to be prepared for the potential of a high-energy dog. A fully-grown Doberman Pinscher is usually inches tall and weighs pounds. The other parent breed can affect this, so you want to ask the breeder about them and also pay attention to which breed is the mother. Although it is not a guarantee, you can also meet the mother dog in-person. This can give you some idea of what size to expect in a fully-grown Doberman Mix. A Doberman generally lives for years. The other parent breed may affect this slightly, but you can likely expect a similar life span in a Doberman Mix. Featured Doberman Mix Article.

Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. For more about the true price of a golden retriever puppy, you can read our full price breakdown here. Location Information for New Mexico Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in New Mexico? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in New Mexico? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved. What is an English Cream Golden Retriever? Read the answer to this common question here: English Cream Golden Retriever The relationship between a potential new family member and us is special. Our website includes information about us, our facility and Golden Retrievers, and how we raise our puppies with our Foundational Start program. Our program has years of experience working with veterinarians, trainers, and training programs. We love that our program has allowed our families to achieve a wonderful companion dog and, in many cases, a service and therapy dog working with them. I have personally been to their facility, and the cleanliness and loving environment blows me away every single time. The amount of veterinary care and health testing to ensure they meet quality standards is second to none. Plus have a beautiful pond for our Goldens to swim. We meet most of our families in Dallas DFW that fly in from all over the country, coast to coast, from Alaska to Maine. We raise our English Golden Retrievers in the comforts of a home environment. We built a dog home, we call the Wisteria Golden Lodge with a bedroom, kitchen, and living room they share with us humans. While their environment, food quality, vitamins, love, and care are essential for providing families with a well-balanced socialized puppy, health is a priority. As genetic testing progresses, some of our younger dogs will have DM Degenerative Myelopathy. Our complete panel of tests includes health tests for the heart, eye, and elbows, and we do PennHip testing for their hips. Both have fantastic playful personalities, and love playing the the garden with their mum and dad and my other older dog! They will also leave with a blanket scented with their litter mates and a soft toy. These Golden Retriever are perfect companion and they make a perfect addition to any family. We carefully selected to feed them PawTree, Dry. Their favourite food formulation is Chicken and Sweet Potato. They are crate trained. They will come with papers and are registered with AKC. .Please Contact me back by Email: sandrinemayer39 gmail. This puppies can easily learn all feelings. It will exactly react according to the way you want. The puppies have been vaccinated vet checked and up to date on shots with Cancun retriever Mexico AKC registerable golden retriever pups for sale retriever Cancun, Mexico AKC registerable golden retriever pups for sale AKC registerable golden retriever pups for sale Our puppies have all been examed by the vet, had their 1st vaccinations and have been de-wormed regularly. They come with a 60 day health guarantee and AKC registration papers. Our puppies have all been examed by the vet, had their 1st vaccinations and have been de-wormed regularly. Six of them are girls and one boy. All puppies are bouncy and cuddly and are happy little characters and would make perfect family pets. .Our puppies are all vet checked with good temperament. All potty trained and comes with all health papers and a one year health Guarantee. For serious inquiries and quick respond contact the email below for more information. The pups are raised in a loving home and are ready to meet a new family. Both have fantastic playful personalities, and love playing the the garden with their mum and dad and my other older dog! They will also leave with a blanket scented with their litter mates and a soft toy. These Golden Retriever are perfect companion and they make a perfect addition to any family. We carefully selected to feed them PawTree, Dry. Their favourite food formulation is Chicken and Sweet Potato. They are crate trained. They will come with papers and are registered with AKC. .Please Contact me back by Email: sandrinemayer39 gmail. Our puppies have all been examed by the vet, had their 1st vaccinations and have been de-wormed regularly. They come with a 60 day health guarantee and AKC registration papers. This puppies can easily learn all feelings. It will exactly react according to the way you want. Six of them are girls and one boy. All puppies are bouncy and cuddly and are happy little characters and would make perfect family pets. .They are up to date with their shots and dewormer and have great personalities. Contact me for more information and photos If interested.

The exact amount of exercise your dog needs will depend on roughly how old they are. A small puppy will need minute walks or playtime several times a day. An adult Goldendoodle will still need at least minutes of exercise every day, even into their senior years. Goldendoodles come from two extremely active breeds. Expect this designer breed to be an active dog. Golden Retrievers were bred to gather waterfowl shot down in a hunt and so require lots of time outdoors and love being in and around the water. The Poodle parent was bred for much the same reason, although they originate in France or Germany according to popular theory while Golden Retrievers originate in England. Because of this, your Goldendoodle is going to be chock-full of energy and excitement! Goldendoodles with wavy or curly coats shed less — making them often the best pick for kids with allergies or asthma triggered by dogs. Goldendoodles love exploring, so hit your local trail and spend the day finding new paths. Not much of a hiker? No problem! Take your Goldendoodle on a quick jaunt around your neighborhood. Dog Parks. Socializing your puppy is extremely important, so taking them to a dog park is both a way to socialize and burn off energy. Plus, it lets your dog make some new friends to run around with! Obstacle Courses. This is a great way to get your dog moving and mentally stimulated at the same time! This can give them hours and hours of fun. If they are good then you can get professional dog training and even compete! Goldendoodles love the water! They also love going to the beach or lake. Whether it is a mini Goldendoodle or a larger dog — they will most likely take the the water or beach. Indoor Activities for Goldendoodles So going outside is a huge plus for Goldendoodles. You want a dog clicker sound to be loud but also not irritating Hide-the-Treat. Goldendoodles are clever, natural hunters that love to sniff out a problem… literally! Did I mention that your Goldendoodle loves you a lot? Like, a lot. Make sure you give them lots of love and maybe a treat or two after such dedicated detective work. Teach them new tricks. Goldendoodles are more than capable of learning new tricks, so pick a trick and spend the day teaching them to do it! It might sound goofy, but rolling around on the floor with your Goldendoodle is actually an awesome way to get them to exercise! Littermates will wrestle with each other all the time, so your puppy will naturally want to play around with you. Just be careful to show them where the limits are with nipping. A senior Goldendoodle might be less keen for the rough and tumble. Play with toys. Grab a rope toy and play tug-of-war , throw a stuffed toy down the hall for them to run after, or toss a ball in the air for them to catch! Not only is your doodle puppy getting exercise, so are you! This can lead to problems with their joints, digestive system, heart, and blood sugar. It can also make genetic conditions like hip dysplasia more intense or painful. That being said, getting too much exercise can wear on their joints as well. It might cause a thinning of the cartilage around the joint that might lead to arthritis or pain. Goldendoodles are also prone to genetic conditions. Hip dysplasia, again, is a major one, which can be worsened by excessive movement and hard impact landings. Make sure that as the Goldendoodle owner you take your pet in for regular checkups and caring for their joints as they age. An older Goldendoodle might enjoy the low-impact fun of going for a swim or a walk rather than running around like their younger counterparts love to do. If they do display any health problems, make sure to get them seen right away to prevent them from developing into anything serious. Goldendoodles are going to want to run around outside, chase things down, and get in the water whenever they can. This might be a problem for owners of very young puppies. They might get into a lot of trouble because of this natural curiosity. Keeping a close eye on your doodle puppy and making sure they have the proper training early on is absolutely essential. It keeps not only your Goldendoodle dog safe and happy but every dog and person they interact with. Puppy owners are also going to want to play with them often! This shows your dog that you care about them and that they can trust you. Can Goldendoodles swim? Do they like pools and beaches? The Best Environments for Goldendoodles Goldendoodles are an extremely social breed. They love being around people and other animals, so are perfect for families with other pets especially ones that can keep up with a Goldendoodle! Fortunately, homes with a fenced-in yard can be perfect for a Goldendoodle pup. They also do well as farm dogs, with plenty of room to run around and other animals to interact with. Goldendoodles Love to Move Like with any other kind of dog, owning a Goldendoodle means being dedicated to keeping them happy and healthy for a long time to come. Goldendoodles are fun, friendly dogs. 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. Photo courtesy of littlerudyray on Instagram. As a rule of thumb, a Goldendoodle puppy should get about 5 minutes of exercise per month of age, times per day. Toy Goldendoodles should start out with short, 10 minute exercise sessions times per day as puppies. At 3 months in age, this can be increased to 15 minutes, at 4 months to 20 minutes, at 5 months to 25 minutes, and at 6 months to 30 minutes. Mini Goldendoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements Many prospective owners underestimate how much exercise mini Goldendoodles will need…they can be quite active! As an 8-week old puppy, you should start them off slow with 10 minute activity sessions, times per day. This can be short potty walks or small games of tug or fetch. When your miniature Goldendoodle reaches 4 months in age, you can increase their physical activity to 15 minute sessions, still occurring times daily. At 5 months, increase session lengths another 5 minutes. At 6 months, do the same again for a total of 25 minutes, times a day. Once your mini Goldendoodle is one, they can exercise in minute sessions, times daily. Around minutes, times per day is usually a good amount. Standard Goldendoodle Puppy Exercise Requirements Standard Goldendoodles require the most exercise of any size of this breed. Because of their large stature, however, you need to gradually increase the amount of physical activity extremely slowly as they grow up. At 6 months this amount can increase to 20 minutes and at 12 months it can increase to 25 minutes. At 18 months, a standard Goldendoodle should be getting minutes of exercise, times each day. This is a big range, but it depends on the personality and individual needs of your dog. For best results, combine walks with games of fetch and other fun activities! Once your standard Goldendoodle reaches years old, you can begin to lower their total amount of physical activity slightly. Photo courtesy of bodethedoodle on Instagram. Everyone knows that walks are a great option for getting your pup some exercise, but there are a lot of other great ways too! Just as important as how long your Goldendoodle puppy exercises for is what kind of exercise they do. This is fantastic mental stimulation for them! Puppy Play Dates — This makes for a great socialization opportunity as well as a chance for physical activity! Playtime — Games such as fetch and tug of war are fun options many Goldendoodles love. Keep games in control and avoid lots of jumping or high-impact movements. Climbing or Jumping — This applies to both indoor and outdoor activities. Even climbing stairs on a daily basis can do damage to developing bones. Opt to carry your dog instead. Extended Hiking Trips — Long distances with uneven trails combine to make hiking an unsafe activity while your puppy is still growing. How do you use up all that energy and wear out your Goldendoodle on days like these? Here are some of my favorite indoor activity ideas for Goldendoodles! Snuffle Ball or Mat Snuffle balls or snuffle mats are great ways to turn dinnertime into a fun challenge for your Goldendoodle! They then have to use their creativity and sense of smell to find and eat them! While not physically taxing, studies show that mental stimulation can have the same tiring effect on dogs that exercise does. Otherwise, there are plenty of great options available on Amazon, Chewy. Hide and Seek Trust me, this game will be fun and take you back to your childhood days! Start easy and work your way to harder hiding spots as your dog attempts to find you! They combine practical training concepts with fun activities making it a blast for your dog! How Far Can a Goldendoodle Walk? Keep in mind that standard Goldendoodles with their longer legs can walk further than toy or mini Goldendoodles can. More About Goldendoodles…. Use tab to navigate through the menu items. How much exercise do Goldendoodles need? One of the happiest times for our Goldendoodle mamas is when they are off-leash and bounding around in the backyard with the girls. Squeals of excitement and yelps of glee fill the air. But yet, these same Goldendoodles eagerly curl up with us on the coach and snooze away on a rainy afternoon. So, how much exercise is right for a Goldendoodle? However, a blanket statement is that most people with a fenced in backyard will find that their Goldendoodle will get all the exercise they require. According to size The first thing to consider when determining an exercise regimen is the size of your Goldendoodle. Just like traveling a mile to an ant is like a person walking clear across the state of New York, mini goldendoodles require far less room for exercise than a standard. Depending on age The second thing to consider is the age of your Goldendoodle. Puppies through the first two years of life will crave more exercise time. So, aim for at least minutes of exercise three times a day. But, as they age, this exercise time will change from playing catch and soccer to a gentle stroll around the block. Personality factors Lastly, each Goldendoodle has their own personality. As a breed they are eager to please and acclimate well to most any situation, so let your Goldendoodle live life with you. Try out new things dog parks, lake trips, beach weekend getaways, or dog-friendly outdoor restaurants. The more they are around people, the happier your Goldendoodle will be! Regardless of how much time your Goldendoodle spends outdoors, make sure every moment is supervised - not to keep them out of trouble, but to keep trouble from finding them. Goldendoodles are a highly sought after breed, so keep a watch out for suspicious cars in the neighborhood. Your Goldendoodle will soon be like another member of the family though, so you will be watching out for them just like you would your own child! If you have any additional questions for us about how to care for your Goldendoodle , please add a comment below or reach out on our Contact Us page! Goldendoodles need at least two hours of exercise every day to burn off any excess energy these dogs are generally known for having. If you find that you often have to leave your Goldendoodle home by itself for a longer amount of time due to work commitments, try to schedule the first walk before you leave home heading for work. There are several factors that will determine the time required to walk a pup. If you happen to live in an apartment with your Goldendoodle, the lack of room and no easy access to the outside world, mean that three walks a day are probably necessary. Dogs also require exercise to help support cardiovascular fitness, making their muscles and bones stronger, as well as securing the overall well-being of your dog. Routine As with every other dog breed, Goldendoodles prefers routines. As I mentioned above, if you have to leave early in the morning, go on a walk with him before leaving. When you get back home from going on a walk with your dog, you should wait around thirty minutes before you give him anything to eat. If you decide to feed your pup before going outside for their daily exercise, a good idea is to not bring them out until at least an hour has passed. Exercising a Goldendoodle just before or straight after eating a meal could end up giving your dog a bloat. Mixing it Up If you constantly take your Goldendoodle to the exact same place day in and day out for his walks, I can guarantee you it will quickly become boring for both your pup and you. The solution to this is to vary the walks once or twice a week. If you have no other option but to go to the same few places every time, at least try and take a different route once in a while to break up the monotony. A good idea can be to bring a ball, or perhaps even a frisbee with you. And that brings us to the next section. But can you count on the opposite also being the case? The first dogs that were ever bred, were because humans needed something that was loyal and could work for them every day. The tasks these dogs were put on could be anything from being guard dogs to tracking or hunting dogs. But no matter what job they had, there was one thing all the dogs always had in common, they needed a purpose with their lives, and being able to do the tasks they were meant for, gave them a lot of pride and joy every day. And while most dog owners do a pretty good job of stimulating their dogs physically, the mental aspect of training is often overlooked. A lot of dog owners have the inaccurate idea that as long as their pup just gets their sleep, food, and physical exercise, they will end up having a happy and satisfied dog. But dogs are intelligent animals. A Goldendoodle is one of the smartest dogs, and they have a need for mental stimulation that is equal to their need for physical exercise. Mental Stimulation Is Very Important If you can allocate an adequate amount of mental training, getting a happy and joyful dog is probably never going to happen, and instead you might end up with a pup with some serious behavior issues. Allow me to give you an example of why a lack of mental stimulation can lead to big problems. If you frequently go on long walks or hiking with your dog, his physical demands will be met quite easily. All creatures on earth need a certain amount of physical exercise to perform to their best, but we certainly also need to have our minds stimulated. When we need to do that, we can choose to read a book, solve a puzzle, watch a movie, or simply by surrounding ourselves and having conversations with other humans. Or going on a hiking adventure instead of having a lovely dinner with some awesome food and wine? I doubt a lot of people would think of those as excellent alternatives. Her program has some pretty awesome ways of looking at dog training, and a special focus on the mental part. There are quite a few ways where you can combine mental training with physical training. Public trips Try bringing your pup to a busy area such as the local supermarket or something like the parking lot of your nearest mall, and try spending 15 minutes there before going back home. Just by being in these places for some time, a dog will receive a lot of new impressions from hearing, smelling, and simply seeing numerous new and exciting things. Perhaps you can even add some different fetch and hide-and-seek games to the afternoon walk. All of these are things that will help stimulate a Goldendoodle both mentally and physically. Take your dog with you Have you ever considered bringing your dog with you if you have to go for a short drive to put gas on your car or going to buy those winning Powerball numbers? For most of us, a minute drive seems boring and something you have to get over with as soon as possible, but to a dog, this is a fantastic way to discover a whole new world of sounds and smells. Try bringing your dog out of the car when you arrive at your destination, and allow him to go number one in a bush somewhere in that area. This will also allow your Goldendoodle to leave a few of his own interesting smells for the next dog that might feel like dropping by. So even though a Goldendoodle has quite high exercise needs, if you follow the guidelines given above you should have some tips on how you can best handle any pup. If you walk your Goldendoodle times a day, at around minutes each time, you will end up with a happy and satisfied dog. And on top of that, I can almost guarantee that you will personally also end up as a much healthier and happier person. Just as your Goldendoodle will. 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. These days I have two adorable fuzzy rascals around me, that ensures I get plenty of exercise and laughter throughout my day! Legal Information The owner of this site, LabradoodleHome. This site also participates in other affiliate programs and is compensated for referring traffic and business to these companies. Labradoodle Home does not intend to provide veterinary advice. All articles and posts are aimed at giving users a better understanding of their dogs. The content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Amazon OneLink. Jun 22, Share Goldendoodles are very popular. They are a combination of two of the most popular dog breeds in the world, a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. These dogs are prized for their adorable looks and unique hypoallergenic coat, but few people realize just how much activity Goldendoodles need. At first glance, Goldendoodles do not look like an athletic powerhouse, but they need a surprising amount of exercise to satisfy their needs. Goldendoodles need between 1 and 3 hours of activity per day, and the activities need to be a mixture of physical and mental. Here is everything you need to know about your Goldendoodle exercise needs. Goldendoodle Exercise Needs Goldendoodles need a lot of exercise. Most experts agree that an active Goldendoodle needs at least 2 hours of exercise per day, and some more active dogs might need as much as three hours. That is a lot of activity, and it is something that people need to be aware of before getting a Goldendoodle of their own. The exact amount of exercise your Goldendoodle needs will depend on your individual dog. Younger dogs, and especially puppies, will likely need the full 3 hours of exercise to be satisfied. Older dogs and dogs that have calmed down and settled into a routine might only need 1 to 2 hours of exercise per day. However, you should not go below an hour a day of exercise for any Goldendoodle. There are multiple different ways to exercise your Goldendoodle. Since these dogs are both energetic and intelligent, they will need a combination of physical and mental stimulation to keep them satisfied. One of the best ways to get your Goldendoodle physical exercise is to take them on long walks. Walks have the benefit of getting your dog out of the house and letting them sniff and explore new environments. If possible, you should take your Goldendoodle on two substantial walks per day, one in the morning and one in the evening. Each walk should be 30—60 minutes long. Another way to get your Goldendoodle physical exercise is to play with them in the backyard. Playing fetch, chase, and tuggy are great ways to help your Goldendoodle blow off some steam without necessarily having to go on a walk. Lastly, taking your Goldendoodle to the dog park can have a lot of benefits. The dog park will allow your dog to potentially play with other dogs and will allow them to sniff and explore a new location. A weekly trip to the dog park can help provide both physical and mental stimulation to your Goldendoodle. Mental Exercise Since Goldendoodles are intelligent, they also need mental exercise to keep their mind as well as their bodies fresh and in shape. Mental exercise can include things like seeing new places, interacting with other dogs, and playing with stimulating toys. A Goldendoodle that gets boring physical exercise without any mental stimulation can still act out and misbehave. There are toys specifically designed to help dogs work out their brains that some dogs absolutely love playing with. You can also consider feeding your dog with a puzzle bowl to boost mental exercise during meals. Playing with your dog in the house can also count as some mental stimulation. If you do not provide adequate mental exercise for your Goldendoodle, they will often seek out stimulation on their own, which often leads them into trouble. Since Goldendoodles are so energetic and intelligent, they will let you know when they are not getting enough stimulation. People do not realize how much time 2 hours per day is. That is a lot of activity. If you do not give your Goldendoodle enough exercise, it will become unruly. Exercise can solve many minor behavioral issues that come from too much pent-up energy and a lack of mental stimulation. Consider Doggy Daycare If you think the exercise requirements for a Goldendoodle sound daunting, you are not alone. Exercising your dog multiple hours a day is not always in the cards for most people. The good news is that there is an entire business built around this quandary. Doggy daycare is designed specifically for dogs like Goldendoodles that need ample amounts of mental and physical stimulation and whose owners might not have the time to give them what they need. Doggy daycare will check all of the boxes for mental and physical stimulation, but it will cost some extra money. For the best results, Goldendoodles need a combination of both physical and mental stimulation. Two hours per day is the recommendation for healthy and active Goldendoodles. A combination of walks , play, and new environments are necessary to keep Goldendoodles at their best. This will keep your Goldendoodle calm while inside and help them to listen and behave. Goldendoodles: what are they? Goldendoodles are a popular hybrid breed resulting from the crossbreeding of a Golden Retriever and a Poodle. They were originally bred to create a hypoallergenic and non-shedding dog that possesses the friendly and intelligent traits of both parent breeds. Goldendoodles come in different sizes, including standard, medium, and miniature. The average height of a standard Goldendoodle can range from 53 to 63 cm, while miniatures stand at about 38 to 48 cm. They typically weigh between 11 to 32 kg, depending on their size. The life expectancy of a Goldendoodle is generally between 10 and 15 years. What is the temperament of Goldendoodles like? Goldendoodles are known for their friendly and sociable nature. They tend to be outgoing, affectionate, and eager to please, making them great companions for individuals and families alike. With their intelligence and willingness to learn, they are highly trainable and excel in activities such as obedience training, agility, and even therapy work. Goldendoodles are generally good with children and other pets, although early socialisation and proper training are still important. Arnie, the Goldendoodle How much exercise do Goldendoodles need? Goldendoodles are energetic and active dogs that require regular exercise to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They benefit from approximately 1 to 2 hours of exercise each day. This can include activities like brisk walks, jogging, playing fetch, or engaging in interactive games. Mental stimulation is also crucial for Goldendoodles, so puzzle toys, obedience training, and interactive play sessions are highly recommended. However, keep in mind that individual exercise needs may vary depending on the dog's age, size, and overall health. Consulting with your vet can provide tailored advice for your Goldendoodle's exercise routine. Puppies have specific exercise requirements that should be adjusted according to their age and physical development. For Goldendoodle puppies, short, controlled playtime and gentle exercise are ideal to prevent injury and strain on growing joints. Gradually increase the duration and intensity of exercise as your puppy grows. Avoid strenuous activities and excessive jumping until their skeletal system is fully developed, which typically occurs around 12 to 18 months of age. Your vet can advise on an exercise regime for your individual Doodle. Daisy, the Goldendoodle Do Goldendoodles need a lot of grooming? Goldendoodles have a variety of coat types, including wavy, curly, or straight. Their coat is usually low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them a good option for individuals with allergies, but always remember that hypoallergenic does not mean they will cause no allergic reaction. Borrowing a dog is a great way to get an idea if your allergies are affected by a Goldendoodle before you take on your own. However, grooming requirements can vary depending on the type of coat. Regular brushing is necessary to prevent matting and keep the coat clean and tangle-free. Aim for brushing sessions at least 2 to 3 times a week. Professional grooming every 6 to 8 weeks may be required to maintain the coat's length and overall appearance. Like any dog, regular tooth brushing with a dog-specific toothpaste twice daily is ideal. Millie, the Goldendoodle Are Goldendoodles easy to train? Goldendoodles are highly intelligent and eager to please, which contributes to their trainability. They respond well to positive reinforcement training methods and enjoy learning new commands and tricks. Start training from an early age to establish good behaviour and socialisation skills. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement are key when training Goldendoodles. Keep training sessions engaging and fun to prevent boredom. Goldendoodles thrive in environments where they receive mental stimulation and have a job to do. With the right approach, they can excel in various training activities and become well-behaved, obedient companions. Tommy, the Goldendoodle What do Goldendoodles eat? Feeding your Goldendoodle a balanced and nutritious diet is essential for their overall health and well-being. Choose high-quality dog food that is appropriate for their size, age, and activity level. Puppies should be fed puppy-specific food until they reach around 12 months of age to support their growth and development. Puppies should be fed times a day until they are 6 months old, then twice daily. At around 12 months old, depending on the brand of food and vet recommendations, gradual change on to an adult dog food. Monitor their weight and adjust their portions accordingly to prevent obesity. Are Goldendoodles healthy? Goldendoodles are generally healthy dogs, but like any breed, they can be prone to certain health conditions. It's important to be aware of potential health concerns, which can include: Bones and Joints Elbow Dysplasia - this condition is where there is an issue with how the bones fit together at the elbow joint Hip Dysplasia - a condition where the thigh bone and pelvis do not sit together properly at the hip joint, which can lead to discomfort and arthritis Eyes Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA - this is when the retina of the eye breaks down, leading to blindness Skin Atopy - when the immune system overreacts to an allergen and results in skin irritation. Ear infections - the ear canal, and sometimes the ears flaps have an overgrowth of bacteria, yeast etc. BorrowMyDoggy loves Goldendoodles BorrowMyDoggy has Goldendoodle members Information on this page should never replace advice given by your veterinarian. Potential health issues presented are given as a guide only and are not meant to be comprehensive. If you ever have any concerns about your dog's health, contact your local vet. Poodle Guides. Try to teach them to keep all their feet on the floor when they are running and playing. If they love to jump, try to limit them from jumping on and off furniture, couches, beds, stairs, and other high surfaces. This repetitive high-impact motion can cause lots of problems and can damage their developing joints What are suitable types of exercises for a Goldendoodle puppy Your Goldendoodle puppy will learn about the world around them and find out their part in the world through play. They will learn what things are good to play with and which things get them into trouble. Correct puppy etiquette is usually learned through play, as well as cause-and-effect relationships, such as if I put my toy in my water bowl, it gets wet. Other than a short walk around the block, there are many things that you can do to make sure that your Goldendoodle puppy is getting enough daily exercise without risking permanent injury to their little body. By just playing with your Goldendoodle puppy, they will usually get plenty of exercise. Goldendoodle Puppies Love Playtime! How often and what kinds of activities should you play with your Goldendoodle puppy? These are some fun games that you can play with your Goldendoodle puppy that will help keep them safe yet let them burn off some of their energy. Hide and seek: Games such as hide-and-seek will provide a great workout for you and your puppy and will also mentally stimulate them as well. Fetch: A slow version of fetch is also appropriate. Do not throw the ball very far or play until they drop from exhaustion. Tug-of-war: Tug-of-war is always a lot of fun, but remember to let your puppy do all the tugging. If you pull too hard, you can hurt your Goldendoodle puppy. You will just hold the other end of the rope toy and enjoy watching them exert all their little might into pulling that toy out of your hands. Make sure to let your Goldendoodle puppy occasionally win to boost their confidence. Wrestling: Gentle wrestling matches are a normal occurrence among littermates. Recreating this game with your Goldendoodle puppy will give them a great way to play. Remember that most puppies are always testing their limits. If your Goldendoodle puppy becomes a little too rambunctious or biting during wrestling, you need to teach them that this is not acceptable behavior. Puppies are great at letting you know when they have had enough. You will notice them lying down to rest, overall slowing down or panting. This is the time that they need a break. Some puppies will even refuse to continue playing or walk away when they are tired. The younger your Goldendoodle puppy is, the more time they will need to rest after playing. Goldendoodle puppies should dictate what exercise and for how long you do them. These are a few suggestions of great activities and not-so-good activities to do with your Goldendoodle Puppy Good Exercises for Goldendoodle Puppies Walks around the block on a leash. Make sure that this is at a slow enjoyable pace. Playtime in the backyard with some toys. Let your Goldendoodle run and play while you are having fun with them! Sometimes they can get too excited. Try to keep them calm. Play a fun game of fetch or tug of war. This is a great way to get in some exercise with your Goldendoodle puppy Bad Exercises For Goldendoodle Puppies Long jogs or bike rides for any significant length might be too much for a small puppy. Do not make your Goldendoodle try to keep up with you; go at their pace. Long runs and very vigorous playtimes at the puppy stage may be too much for your Goldendoodle. Climbing stairs, hills, or very long stretches of strenuous activity. During these activities, you will need to watch for signs that your Goldendoodle puppy is okay. Let your dog dictate the intensity and length of your exercise. Puppies are still growing and developing. Too much exercise can put a strain on their joints when they are a puppy. Your Goldendoodle puppy will only need about two short walks a day. Most Goldendoodle owners want to take their puppies for walks and show them off to their friends and neighbors. This usually is not the best for your Goldendoodle. Goldendoodle puppies are very quickly growing. Their joints and bones are not fully developed. There are growth plates that are found at the end of the long bones in their legs that are soft and susceptible to injuries. Any activity that involves repetitive, jarring movements, such as landing after catching a Frisbee or tennis ball in the air, should not be done until your Goldendoodle puppy is at least 12 months old. Other high-impact exercises that can put pressure on their joints, like agility weave poles, should be avoided. It is also best not to force your Goldendoodle puppy to exercise or force them to keep up with you during a bike ride. Remember that any playtime is considered exercise. Even going for a walk is exercise. Your adult Goldendoodle will not demand as much exercise and playtime as a puppy. Generally, a walk once every day or two is enough exercise for an adult Goldendoodle. They can usually entertain themselves, play with toys, or run around the backyard. Taking your adult Goldendoodle for a walk is a wonderful exercise for both you and your dog. Daily walks should not be the only form of exercise your Goldendoodle receives. Just like people, your dog can grow bored very quickly with the same routine day after day. Make sure to spice up his exercise program now and then with some variety. Even changing up the walking route can help keep your Goldendoodle from getting bored. Playing games such as fetch, hide-and-seek, Frisbee, and tug-of-war with your adult Goldendoodle are also a great way to give your dog a healthy workout while having a lot of fun at the same time. This will really help change their workout routine and liven things up. There are usually many different jogging and hiking trails that you can take with your Goldendoodle. These different routes can usually add a bit of variety as well. Adult Goldendoodles love to be active in different dog sports. You can look into dog sports such as agility or flyball. You can easily set up your own version of these courses in your backyard. Dog sports not only provide plenty of exercise for your Goldendoodle but also provides a lot of mental stimulation that your Goldendoodle will need. Dog sport can help strengthen the bond between you and your Goldendoodle and give you a fun activity that you both can participate in. The amount of exercise you should give your senior Goldendoodle depends on their mobility and general health. You should encourage them to stay active, but you should consciously make sure they play less hard and less often than they did when they were young. As your Goldendoodle gets older, their mobility is also going to decline. But this does not mean senior Goldendoodle does not need to exercise. Keeping your Goldendoodle active can also keep them healthier for longer. Even though your senior Goldendoodle may not be running as far or playing as long as they used to, there are many things you can do to help keep them healthy and active. Exercising your Goldendoodle will not only help keep their mind active but also help keep them at a healthy weight with a strong body. No matter what physical limitation your older Goldendoodle has, there is always something fun that they can be doing to help keep them happy and healthy. These are some common things you can do with your senior Goldendoodle. This does not change based on their age. Walking is a great low-impact exercise that you can do with your older Goldendoodle. As your Goldendoodle gets older, you will have to pay attention to the speed that you walk and the weather. Older dogs are more sensitive to the sudden changes in temperature and usually cannot keep up with the same pace they did when they were a puppy. Make sure that the time of day you take your older Goldendoodle will allow them to be comfortable the whole walk. Early in the morning and later in the afternoon are best for hot summer days, whereas the middle of the day would be best during the winter months. When taking your senior Goldendoodle for a walk, the type of terrain that they are walking on will affect their balance. It is best to walk them on soft surfaces such as grass or sand. Monitor your dog during and after a walk. If your Goldendoodle is stiff after a walk or seems like they do not want to continue the walk, decrease the speed and the distance that you are walking. Make sure that your Goldendoodle is enjoying their walk and having fun. Taking Your Senior Goldendoodle For A Swim If you have a swimming pool or a lake that you can take your Goldendoodle to for exercise, it will help your older Goldendoodle be able to exercise. Swimming is a great way for your senior Goldendoodle to exercise. This is a great whole-body workout that is also easy on the joints. Swimming is an easy and safe way to let your dog strengthen their muscles while still providing comfort to their joints. This is commonly used in physical therapy for dogs who have had major orthopedic surgeries. There may be a local rehab center that would allow you to bring your dog to their pool for a swim. If you do take your older Goldendoodle to the lake, it is best for them to wear a life vest. They can get out into the deep water and be in trouble before you can get there to save them. This is also great for dogs who are not advanced swimmers. Some dogs are afraid of water and should never be put in a situation where they are scared. If your dog loves water, swimming is a great way to exercise your senior Goldendoodle. There are many other low-impact exercises you can do with your Goldendoodle. Yoga for dogs and dog Pilates are becoming very popular. These activities provide a lot of mental and physical stimulation. There are many local yoga and Pilates places that offer classes for you and your dog. Your dog can also benefit from many indoor activities. Dog puzzles or tug of war will help keep your dog entertained and active. If your older Goldendoodle is suffering from a medical problem, you will want to make sure that the physical activity that you are doing does not cause any extra stress on these muscles or joints. If you need help with exercises for your older Goldendoodle, consult with your vet. Always watch your dog while exercising and make sure that they are not overdoing it. If you notice things are becoming more difficult or painful, do not do it. How To Exercise Your Goldendoodle A lot of pet owners tend to solely rely on walks when exercising their dogs. Technically, anything that gets your dog actively moving would qualify as exercise. Feel free to make adjustments based on your schedule as well as the needs of your pup. Try the following types of exercises with your Goldendoodle. City Parks Your local city park is the perfect place to take your dog out regularly. This kind of environment provides your Goldendoodle with plenty of excitement and things to sniff. Most parks require you to keep your dog leashed — whereas others allow you to take them off and let them run around. If you can take the leash off, bringing a ball or frisbee with you is a great way to give your dog some additional physical activity. Dog Parks The best thing about taking your Goldendoodle to an official dog park is that you can let it run wild without having to monitor it constantly. There should be plenty of furry friends around for your Goldendoodle to entertain itself with. This is a great way to tire out your dog, as well as socialize it with other pups at the park. You may find that dog park days offer more than enough excitement for your Goldendoodle to be tired for the whole day afterward. Naturally, you can change up the length of your walks based on your schedule, making this one of the most flexible ways to exercise your four-legged friend. Play Dates If you have friends with dogs, feel free to organize a play session with them so that your pups can meet and tire each other out together. Alternatively, when you notice that your Goldendoodle gets along with another dog at the park, exchange contacts and ask to arrange a meeting time that works for both of you. You can meet people within your community and exercise your pup in one fell swoop. Jogging Getting enough exercise in our own lives can often be a challenge, especially when we need to dedicate two hours of physical activity to our Goldendoodles each day. If you are an active runner, feel free to take out your Goldendoodle with you on your daily jogs. This is a great way to exercise your Goldendoodle, but you should not overdo it. Young Goldendoodles and senior Goldendoodles in particular will not handle this kind of physical activity very well. Goldendoodles in their prime between the age of 2 to 8 years will benefit greatly from this kind of vigorous exercise. Just make sure not to run for more than 5 to 10 miles per day with your Goldendoodle. So does your Goldendoodle! Your four-legged friend is itching to explore uncharted territory, and there is no better place to do it than a nature trail. Hiking trails are an excellent way to give you and your dog the exercise you both need. Nature provides plenty of excitement for your dog and its senses will be stimulated in more ways than one. In addition to the physical benefits of hiking with your pup, your Goldendoodle also gets to sniff out new places. If you end up liking a local trail, make it a weekly stop and incorporate it into your exercise routine. A trip to the ocean is never a bad idea, and your pup will love this variation in its routine. Most dog beaches allow you to take your Goldendoodle off the leash so that it can run around without being restrained. This allows you to calmly stroll down the beach with your pup or sit back and watch it entertain itself. You may not always be in the mood to take your dog on a two-hour walk, and understandably so. After a long day of work, a solid indoor play session will suffice for quality exercise. In addition, bad weather can sometimes be a limitation. Toys Keeping some toys around the house to entertain your Goldendoodle is essential. While you should normally try to participate in playtime with your pup, just leaving toys out for your dog to enjoy can also technically qualify as some form of physical activity. Interactive squeaky toys give your pup mental stimulation and keep them engaged. However, if you really want to give your dog some legitimate exercise without lifting a finger, I recommend buying an automatic ball thrower. Your Goldendoodle will quickly learn how to use this machine and this allows your furry friend to play fetch all by itself. This is a great option for anyone with a busy schedule who is struggling to find time for the full two hours of exercise each day. Although exercise is very important for your Goldendoodle, too much of it is also not good. Daily Goldendoodle exercise should not exceed 2 hours unless your dog is giving you signals that it wants more physical activity. While your dog needs to exercise too much can cause some problems. These are common problems seen with a Goldendoodle who has exercised too much. They are limping. If your dog has gone for a walk, bike, or hike and is now limping, they may have been exercising too much. For the next few days, take very short walks or skip them altogether. This will allow your dog to heal and be able to go for long walks again. It is best to work up to more strenuous exercises slowly. Your Goldendoodle may just be lazy, but if they do not want to go outside and play, do not force them. Some dogs are perfectly happy being couch potatoes, and you will have to force them to exercise each day. If your dog is suddenly refusing exercise, they may have gotten too much exercise for that day They are sick. If your dog is sick, they will not want to go for a walk. If you notice anything off with your Goldendoodle, it is best to take them to see your vet. They can make sure that your dog does not have anything serious going on, causing them not to want to exercise. They are panting. If your dog is panting when you come back in from exercising, they may have overworked themselves. Some panting is okay, but if they have a hard time cooling down, the next time you take them out, decrease the amount of time that they spend exercising. Also, if it is summertime and very hot outside, try exercising early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Signs Your Goldendoodle Needs More Exercise If your Goldendoodle is not getting enough exercise, there are some signs that you can look for. These signs are: Weight gain: Most Goldendoodles are happy just lying around the house and not outside playing. Most of these dogs can quickly become couch potatoes if you let them. If you notice that your Goldendoodle has become lazier and is putting on a few extra pounds, they could benefit from some added exercise time. Destructive Behavior: Destructive behavior is another sign that your Goldendoodle is not getting enough of a workout each day. Because of the Golden Retriever in their breed, a Goldendoodle can start to chew on things that are off-limits, especially when they are bored or frustrated by extra stored energy. Excessive energy: Excessive amounts of energy are a common sign that your Goldendoodle needs more physical activity. Every dog has a certain energy level. Some dogs need more exercise than others do in order to burn off that extra energy. When you let your Goldendoodle out to play, and they explode out the door and wildly dashes around the yard in endless laps, consider adding another walk or increasing the length of the walks that you take your Goldendoodle on. Also, consider adding another vigorous play session each day. Out of Shape: If your Goldendoodle has trouble keeping up with you on a walk or they get tired very quickly when playing might be out of shape. It is always best to take them to the vet to make sure that there are no medical issues causing this lack of stamina. If not, your Goldendoodle may just be out of shape. You can gradually increase the amount of exercise until they are fit once again. Goldendoodles were created to combine the even temperament and sweet nature of Golden Retrievers with the uncanny intelligence and allergy-friendly coat of the Poodle into one extraordinary crossbreed. The resulting puppies are the best of both breeds and usually packed with energy! How much exercise does a Goldendoodle puppy need? Goldendoodles are fairly energetic and growing puppies will need daily exercise and play. Experts often suggest using the rule-of-thumb of 5 minutes for every month of age up to two times per day. So for a 4-month-old puppy, 20 minutes of exercise twice each day would be sufficient. They love jumping, but try to limit them jumping on and off couches, beds, stairs, and other high surfaces. New to Goldendoodles and still trying to find answers to all your questions? We have the perfect solution! Topics such as generations, coat types, shedding, health concerns, and grooming that gorgeous coat are all thoroughly addressed, because as you know by now, Goldendoodles are not your average dogs. Take the guesswork out of the equation and start raising your Doodle with confidence. Pick up your copy today! Suitable Types of Exercises for Puppies Puppies learn all about the world around them and figure out their part in it through play. They learn which items are acceptable to play with and which ones get them into trouble. Proper puppy etiquette is learned through play, as well as the relationship between cause and effect drop toy in water, toy gets soggy. Aside from short walks around the block, how can you make sure that your puppy is getting enough daily exercise without risking permanent injury to his fragile little body? Believe it or not, the answer is quite simple. Play with him! Puppies Love Playtime! Well, games such as hide-and-seek will provide a good workout for your pup and mentally stimulate him as well. Be sure to check out our Ultimate Guide to Mental Stimulation for a complete explanation and useful tips and ideas. A toned-down version of fetch is appropriate too. Tug-of-war is always fun, but remember to let your puppy do all the tugging. You just hold the other end and enjoy watching him exert all his little might into pulling that toy out of your grasp. Be sure to let him win occasionally to boost his confidence. Check Price on Amazon Gentle wrestling matches are a natural occurrence among littermates, so recreate this game with your Goldendoodle. Perfect for Puppies Walks around the block on a leash, keeping it casual and fun. Jogging or biking for any significant stretch might be too much for a smaller puppy. Free play in the yard with some toys. Let them run and play and have fun with them! If things get too exciting, try and calm them a bit. Long stretches of running and really vigorous play at the puppy stage might be too much. Walking around the house is always fine for a pup, you can guide him or her along with you to get some exercise. Climbing stairs, hills, or really long stretches of strenuous activity, you need to watch for signs they are okay. A fun game of fetch or tug-of-war is a popular way to get in some exercise with puppies around the world! Again watch for signs of too much. Puppies are still growing and developing. Too much can put strain on their joints at this age. Understandably, many new Goldendoodle owners are eager to take their puppy on long walks to show him off to as many people as possible. Two short walks per day is plenty. You see, when puppies are actively growing, their joints and skeletal systems are not yet fully developed. Bones have not yet fully solidified and the growth plates found at the ends of the long leg bones are still open, soft, and prone to injury. Activities that involve repetitive, jarring movements, such as landing after catching an airborne Frisbee, should be put off until the puppy is at least 12 months old. High-impact exercises that put pressure on joints, like agility weave poles, should be avoided as well. Also, refrain from forced exercise, like biking with your leashed puppy. Bear in mind the general rule of 5 minutes of exercise for each month of age up to two times per day, and remember that going for a walk is exercise. This means that if you walk your 2-month-old puppy for 10 minutes in the morning and again that evening, his exercise needs have been met. Playtime is critical to puppy development and does indeed count as exercise. Get Your Copy Today! As Goldendoodles mature, the amount of daily exercise needed increases because they are not spending as much energy growing as they once were. On average, an adult Goldendoodle needs at least 30 minutes of vigorous exercise every day to stay fit and in good condition. Exercise not only keeps your Goldendoodle in tip-top shape but also: prevents obesity. Although they often sport frilly haircuts and can be found prancing around dog show rings, they were originally bred as water retrievers and are a very intelligent and athletic dog that thrives on mental stimulation and physical exercise. Doodle popularity in the U. One of the most common reasons we see in regard to a family having to rehome their doodle relates to the topic of exercise and energy level. So what should you expect when adopting a Goldendoodle into your family? Goldendoodles and Bernedoodles tend to be moderately active, while Sheepadoodles and other herding breed doodles tip the scales into the highly active category! As a general rule, most young doodles do well with roughly an hour or two of exercise each day. As a pup, this should be broken up into several sessions — a couple short walks around the block and a few rounds of fetch time in the backyard throughout the day, for example. Most pups are ready for a burst of activity first thing in the morning and it also helps them to settle down well for the night to have another stretch of exercise in the evening. If these requirements are overwhelming to your schedule, keep in mind that doggy play-dates as well as doggy daycare and dog walkers can serve as excellent substitutes to keep your doodle well-exercised! A well-exercised doodle will be much better behaved and relaxed indoors. As your pup matures, he will be able to exercise less often but for longer periods of time. For example, an adult doodle around a year of age can typically go for one long walk or jog and typically be content to mostly just relax and chew toys the rest of the day. But if you have a particularly demanding work schedule that prevents a lot of daily hangout time, your doodle will probably need even more physical exercise to stay relaxed when you are gone. All Doods love playing, but Bernedoodles seem to be a little extra when it comes to the humor and fun of play time. So tug of war, fetch, chase, etc. They will be more than overjoyed to get their energy out by chasing kids in the backyard, etc. Goldendoodles - These pups definitely need their exercise just like any doodle, but they are flexible as to the form of exercise. They too also love a good play session. Sheepadoodles — These pups thrive off of vigorous exercise. They are typically outgoing dogs who love new things and adventure, so long weekend hikes or meeting new friends at the dog park is right up their alley. We hope this post has helped you form an understanding of just how much exercise is required for a Doodle and which breed could form the perfect partnership for you. Now get out there and create some fun outdoor memories with your pup!

WBP Site Rings Labradoodle puppies for sale in hong kong Finding a labradoodle puppy in hong kong has never been simpler, Browse through our labradoodle puppies for sale below from local labradoodle dog breeders in hong kong. If you do not find the labradoodle puppy for sale that you are looking for then place your request within our labradoodle dogs wanted area. Doing so will enable registered labradoodle dog breeders in hong kong to quickly scan through your requests, and at the same time we ensure your privacy as your email address will always be protected from the general public. You may view all our labradoodle puppies for sale by selecting the page numbers or if you wish by selecting a dog breed below. View Puppy Dogs by Breed: in: Can't find what your looking for: Check our dog breeders section or place an Ad within our dogs wanted area Most recent Ads listed first, you may also view our complete breed list of puppies for sale or if you prefer our Labradoodle list of puppies for sale by country. Labradoodle Puppy for sale 0 match found Page: Displaying Page 1 of 0 Currently there are no Labradoodle Puppies for sale in hong kong available, however we have breeders in hong kong registered in our database. It is possible that all of the available Puppies for sale in hong kong are not listed here. If you would like we could send a broadcast to these breeders in hong kong advising them of your interest and also place an advertisement within the wanted dogs section of this site. If this is what you wish us to do then please enter in your email address below and then select the "Send Request" button. Please Note that your email address will never be made public. Your Email Address:. My dog Pepper is a wonderful addition to my family! Beautiful dogs! They are beautiful and healthy. Our first one is almost 5 years old and we have a 2 month old. Lindy breeds them in a very clean home. She is extremely loving to these newborns and is open to all of our questions. She even follows up to see how they are doing. I would not buy from anyone else. Our 2 labradoodles get plenty of compliments. We have added 2 beautiful members to our family. I waited almost a year for mine and he has been life changing. They are truly amazing, healthy, loyal, and smart dogs! I have trained him and he is now a service dog and has been the greatest companion to me as well. Lindy always responded and kept me in the loop during the entire process. Before I met her I had a nightmare situation with a breeder that was a scam so was very skeptical but she made me feel at ease about everything. Thank you for everything Lindy! Nathan Kirton I ended up finding a puppy from someone else that fit my timeline better. The communication I had with her Lindy was amazing. She was super helpful, and gave me so much information about what I could expect. Thanks for being super helpful Lindy! We waited over a year and it was so worth it! Lindy was instrumental in our family getting the dog of our dreams. She was extremely helpful in asking and answering questions to ensure we got a right match for our family. She took into consideration all of my preferential factors such as the gender, coat color, personality, etc. The cherry on top was upon pick up at 8 weeks Teddy was healthy, socialized, potty trained, and vaccinated. Lindy pours love onto these dogs and puppies and treats her clients with tremendous respect. The puppies are happy and safely kept in an immaculate environment until sent home and I love that each family is celebrated with a photo to commemorate the occasion. Definitely worth the WAIT! Chuck Hahn Best dog ever!!! Worth the wait. He came home perfect! Testimonials Happy Faces Your happiness is our happiness, your success, our success. We take great pride in each and every home we complete with our dogs. We did tons of research. We wanted a dog that did not shed, was hypoallergenic, and had a good temperament. Those dogs are hard to find! We finally came across a very special Australian Labradoodle. We found our Rosie through my best friend who knew the owner of Australian Labradoodles of Texas. Her temperment is what we were really drawn to. She is so calm, obedient, and really wants to please you. She rings a bell when she needs to go outside and walks right next to you on her leash! We feel so lucky that we get to call her ours! To say that Miles has changed our lives for the better would be an extreme understatement! From the moment we set our eyes on him in your videos, we knew he was special, and he has shown us that a million times over. He is a sweet and affectionate dog who loves his family fiercely, acting protective when he needs to, yet demonstrates such a docile and gentle temperament to other people, especially small children who love to pet and squeeze his fluffiness. I had no intention of adding another dog to the mix! After several weeks, I finally pulled the trigger and we brought him home! Charley Brown was the perfect addition to our family and I would recommend these pups to anyone looking for a good family dog. All of our puppies come with Socialization.

Life Span Did You Know? The Shih-Poo has an adorable, alert expression and small, sturdy body. They can take after the Poodle parent, the Shih-Tzu parent, or be any combination of the characteristics of both parent breeds. Shih-Poos tend to be friendly, playful, and affectionate. They love their families and are avidly devoted to them. They tend to be friendly to other dogs, strangers, other pets, and children. They tend to do better with older children who have been taught how to carefully handle a dog. Due to their small size, a Shih-Poo can be easily hurt by rough play or accidental falls. They can do well in families with younger children as long as any time with them is closely supervised. The Shih-Poo tends to be a courageous little dog. They make excellent watchdogs because they are very alert. However, they can become territorial and barking can become a nuisance if left unchecked. Early socialization and training can help curb these tendencies and help your Shih-Poo puppy grow into a well-behaved, confident dog. This designer dog breed is highly adaptable. They do well in apartments as well as in larger homes and tend to do well in most climates. They are sensitive to extreme heat or cold, so they do best in moderate climates. Due to their small size, they may need to layer up for short trips outside when winter rolls in. Because Shih-Poos crave affection and love their humans, they do not like being left alone for long periods of time. The Shih-Poo is a generally healthy designer dog breed. Although the genetic mix can sometimes result in winning the genetic lottery, a mixed dog breed can still be susceptible to health conditions common in one or both of the parent breeds in the cross. By talking with the breeder about the health and genetic history of the parents and asking to see any health clearances, you can allay several of these potential health concerns. This designer dog breed is highly intelligent and can be easy to train. However, they can also have a stubborn streak that can cause some difficulty for first-time dog owners. This is often easily remedied with the help of some puppy training classes. They can also be difficult to housebreak, but it can be done with plenty of training, consistency, and patience. Crate training can also help. Shih-Poos respond best to positive, reward-based training. Whether with praise, treats, or play, you can reward your Shih-Poo for the behavior you like, which will encourage them to do more of it. Coat types and colors can vary greatly in your Shih-Poo. They can have the long, silky, and straight coat of the Shih Tzu, the short, curly, and non-shedding coat of the Poodle, or a combination of both. Most Shih-Poos end up with a curly or wavy, low or non-shedding coat. However, you should be prepared for your Shih-Poo to exhibit either coat type of the parent breeds. This coat looks its best with a combination of brushing a few times a week at home and then professional grooming every four to six weeks. This will help remove tangles and loose hair and prevent matting. Regular dental care is also important. Small dogs are more prone to dental disease. Drop down ears, or floppy ears, are more prone to ear infections because they can trap moisture, dirt, or debris. Daily walks and some indoor playtime will give this dog plenty of exercise. Beyond that, most of them can keep up with you on longer walks and can even compete in dog sports like rally, obedience, and agility. Be sure to check with your vet first and get your dog cleared before taking on any rigorous activities or training for dog sports. A Shih-Poo will generally stand 8 to 15 inches tall and weigh between 7 and 20 pounds. The size of the mother dog can give you a good idea of what to expect in your dog. This designer dog breed usually lives for 15 years or more. Some have even been known to live for 21 years! Featured Shih-Poo Article. What coat colors are available? The coat color of a Shih Poo will vary. They can come in black, brown, white, cream, apricot, gold, red and brindle or a combination of all or some of those colors. Will I need to regularly groom my Shih Poo? Daily to a few times per week brushings along with regular scheduled professional grooming appointments every 4 to 6 weeks will keep your little ones coat soft and clean. Will a Shih Poo make for a good family pet? They also really enjoy the company and comfort of older people. With patience and consistency, they will be trained in no time. How much exercise will my Shih Poo need? Since they are smaller dogs, they will require less exercise. Daily walks between 30 minutes will be plenty to keep them fit and active. They also love to have indoor play, so make sure to keep lots of safe toys available to them. What is the life expectancy of a Shih Poo? The average life expectancy of a Shih Poo is between 14 and 17 years. What is the temperament of a Shih Poo? These spirited little pups are full of love and energy. They are companion dogs, so they thrive in the company of others, but prefer the company of older adults. Training them to control their barking is best when it is corrected at a very young age. Does the Shih Poo shed a lot? No, they have very minimal shedding. They make for great companions for those that suffer with allergies. What kind of coat does the Shih Poo have? The coat can vary depending on which parent they take after more. Their coat can be wavy and wiry like the poodle or soft and straight like the Shih Tzu. It may also be a healthy mix of both. Do they adjust well to their living environment? Yes, they adjust very well. They are just as happy and content in a small apartment as they are in a big home. They need to be around people, so it is best not to leave them for long periods of time. If they become too upset or anxious they can get destructive. Shih Poo Reviews.

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