bulldog puppies for sale minnesota

Getting a Labradoodle would light up your life and make you forget about all the worries as soon as you would look at their adorable face. In addition to it, the following reasons would convince you to get Labradoodle puppies in Southern California as soon as possible. However, they are prone to various genetic diseases that primarily affect their knees and eyesight, which can be detected under an OFA test and pose no threat after treatment. In addition to it, Labradoodles have a life span of around 14 years. Friendly Nature The gentle nature of Labradoodles contributes highly to their increasing demand in Southern California. If you stay with your family and constantly have elders and children around you, then Labradoodles would make the best pet for you as they get along with everyone. They are protective, loyal, and have a lot of patience, allowing them to get along with other dogs and animals without posing any threat. Minimal Shedding Of Fur One of the best traits of Labradoodles is that they are hypoallergenic , meaning that they shed a minimal amount of fur. Most importantly, Labradoodle puppies in Southern California will be great pet options if you or someone in your house is mildly allergic to animal fur. Trainable And Active Labradoodles are pretty easy to train despite having a slightly stubborn attitude. With proper training, they become the best service and therapy dogs for people suffering from any health problem as they would accompany them and guide them throughout. In addition to it, Labradoodles are pretty active and enjoy spending time in the water, splashing around. Thus, if you have a pool and enjoy spending time outdoors, you should definitely consider having a Labradoodle puppy or dog as your pet. Final Words There is no space for doubt about why Labradoodles are so famous and desirable among people living in Southern California. They are highly active, love to spend time indoors as well as outdoors, and would always protect you. So, to help you adopt a Labradoodle puppy for yourself and your family, we mentioned the 5 best Labradoodle Breeders in Southern California that follow all the ethical measures and treat their puppies and dogs as family members. 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. Mini Labradoodle vs Mini Sheepadoodle Comparison Two dog breeds, one purpose: to make your life a joy-filled journey powered by strong bonds, friendship, and unconditional love. Meet the Mini Labradoodle and the Mini Sheepadoodle. Two very adorable and friendly dogs with upbeat personalities, the Mini Labradoodle and Mini Sheepadoodle make the perfect addition to any lucky family. Your way of life, hobbies, and work schedule are all important factors that can help determine which of the two dog breeds is a good fit for your lifestyle.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? They are fun, easygoing, and gentle. Mini Labradoodles enjoy canine games like chase, fetch, and Frisbee, and thrive on cuddles and love. Energetic, friendly, and full of life, the Mini Labradoodles make wonderful jogging and hiking companions. They are known to enjoy a good swim, a long stroll, and are very fond of adventures. The Mini Labradoodle puppies are happy, energetic, and bright bundles of joy. They are loving and eager to please, love to play and cuddle, and are excellent training students. A cross between Labrador Retrievers and Mini or Toy Poodles, the Mini Labradoodle may take after one parent breed or the other in appearance or they may have their own unique look with an added bonus of a hypoallergenic coat. We raise high-quality Mini Labradoodles as well as a few other breeds. We also have partnered up with several other reputable breeders that raise mini labradoodle pups that meet our strict genetic criteria and testing. So we usually have a good selection of very high-quality puppies. View Our Available Puppies! F1B Mini Labradoodle Puppies are a second-generation cross or hybrid. The father is a Mini Poodle and the mother is an F1 Labradoodle. The F1B Minature Labradoodles usually have soft hair that is usually wavy or curly. Thes puppies are considered semi-hypoallergenic since they shed minimally. These puppies can be a good fit if a person that has mild pet allergies. Once F1B Mini Labradoodles reach 6 months old they require to be groomed once every 8 weeks or so to keep their fur healthy and to stop matting. Adult F1B Mini labradoodle dogs range in size from 14 inches in height and pounds in weight. The average life span is typically years of age. The F1BB puppies usually have curlier coats and will be totally hypoallergenic. Once the F1BB pup is 6 months they will need regular grooming every 6 to 8 weeks. F1BB Puppies are usually slightly smaller than F1B puppies and range from 12 inches in height and pounds in weight. Mini Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and the ability to be trained very easily. They make amazing family pets and love to participate in family activities like swimming, hiking, camping or just playing tag in the yard. This breed is also a good choice for people who live in apartments as long as they get at least minutes of exercise a day. So if you live near Los Angeles California and are looking for a healthy and beautiful Mini Labradoodle puppy that can be delivered to you then check out our available pups now by Clicking Here. Below are some Mini Labradoodle pups that have been adopted. A Serious Case of Puppy Love. From Our Home to Yours. Welcome Australian Labradoodle Lovers! As Australian Labradoodle breeders in California, we specialize in allergy-friendly Australian Labradoodles. We choose to breed just a few, select mini and medium labradoodle puppy litters each year. We have a whimsical, silly outlook on life and we like to think that our Labradoodle puppies are the same. We are located in between Northern and Southern California, however we do have a Puppy Nanny who will ensure that your Moo Cow puppy arrives to you safely, regardless of your location. Instead, we love that we can personally deliver these adorable California Labradoodle puppies when we have Labradoodle puppies for sale. Email us at moocowlabradoodles gmail. As premier Australian Labradoodle breeders in California, we take our Labradoodle puppies seriously! Our dogs are a part of our family and live indoors. Every Australian Labradoodle has completed health testing and we strive for proper temperament, ability and conformation. Learn more about our Multigen Labradoodle breeding practices and state-of-the-art puppy nursery on our About Us page. Even if you are outside California and want a labradoodle puppy we have for sale, we can personally deliver it via our labradoodle puppy nanny service! If you have more questions please contact us! Soft, Cuddly, Cute Yes, all dogs are cute—but Labradoodles take it to the extreme. We breed our Labradoodles to be even cuter than normal, which means you might have to open a new Instagram account for your photogenic new pup. Friendliest Dispositions Australian Labradoodles are renowned for being fun and outgoing. Labradoodles are always ready for whatever life has in store. The Uptown Family It might sound corny, but we feel like everyone who brings home an Uptown Labradoodle is part of our family. Perfect Family Pet Have kids and other pets, or do you live alone? Do you live a laid-back life, or are you always on the go? The most awesome thing about Labradoodles is that they adapt to nearly any home and any family—they just love people, period. The best part is that you get to pick, making it easier than ever to choose you dream puppy! Our customers and puppies seem to be pretty happy about that! We work hard to maximize those awesome Labradoodle traits while eliminating genetic diseases and disorders, making Uptown Puppies some of the smartest, happiest and healthiest around. California Labradoodle Breeder Locations. Testimonials As a veterinarian I work with multiple breeders. Charl and Jerry Beauchat have been clients of mine for several years. Their dogs are always kept in great condition. Every puppy is health checked and micro-chipped prior to going to its new home. Providing healthy family members remains a priority of mine as well as theirs Jonathan CortezDVM We can not say enough about the integrity of your program. Pete and Jiffy …head and shoulders above the pack when it comes to a quality breeder…. Do yourself a favor and visit Charl and Shadow Mountain Labradoodles if you are considering a new puppy. We have made a full time commitment to our program. Three of us work full time with our dogs, puppies and families. Charl and Jerry are in Southern California, our daughter Jena, has branched out and is now carrying on our work in Oklahoma! We are also currently training 10 new Australian Labradoodle Breeders in California, Oklahoma, Washington, Texas, Utah, Colorado, Missouri and Ohio to bless families and to protect this wonderful breed! Shadow Mountain Australian Labradoodles are bred with love and care in a home environment. We work hard to place our puppies in an environment where both the families and the puppies are set up for success. Quick Links. Here is Jasper and his son Murphy. These ribbons are from Murphys accomplishments! Such beautiful boys! I am so proud!! This is part of what comes with your puppy. We try to make the transition from my house to yours as easy as possible. Your puppy will come home with: the first puppy shot and all medications needed for age 8 weeks. A blanket that smells like Mom and siblings. A toy, pee pads, puppy food, vitamins and lots of helpful information. I want to make sure you have the knowledge and support to care for your nre best friend! For more info: call or text: Current as of July Parents of the puppies we currently have. There are 5 girls and 2 boy Labradoodles. Multigen medium. Call or text: 1 or email: [email protected]. Double click here to add text. We are expecting a new litter in Sept. These are multigen Labradoodles and do not shed. They will be up to date on all shots and medications. They will be trained to use the doggie door and will be well socialized. The colors we have are apricot and cream parti, buff, and cream. We have males and females. They will te 30 to 40lbs when grown. They come with a 2 year health guarantee. Call or text: for more info. This is Miss Misty.

Log out Account icon An icon in the shape of a person's head and shoulders. It often indicates a user profile. Login Redeem now Rewarding a dog with treats is one of the easiest ways to train them. But give your pup too many big cookies in a row and they're likely to fill up and lose interest before your training session is over. Instead, you'll want to give them some of the best dog training treats. One of the first things I learned as a professional dog trainer was that the smaller the treat and the more your dog loves the flavor, the more they'll be willing to work for another. Training treats work best when they are "small, soft, and highly desirable to your pet," he says. Following Moffat's advice, we've curated the best dog treats to give your pup during training. These treats make it easy to teach new skills and reward positive behaviors. From the best organic dog treats to a lickable trainer favorite, these are the 12 best training treats. When you buy through our links, Insider may earn an affiliate commission. Learn more A enticing classic with chicken liver. Top Picks For Our Dogs Use Both Low-Value and High-Value Treats In general, owners should aim for a good mix of low-value and high-value treats: low-value treats to use often for average responses and high-value treats for when you need a stronger lure or when your dog responds particularly well and you want to give a BIG reward! A good variety of treats will also make sure your dog stays interested in their training. Some owners may prefer to opt for homemade treats such as biscuits and patties. Convenience — The treat should be easy to carry in your pocket or bait bag and definitely not greasy or crumbly. Delicious — Obviously, this is more subjective but your treats must excite your dog otherwise they will not work as a training tool. Whether you pick a treat with crunch, sweetness or a meaty texture is completely up to you — just make sure that your dog loves it! Treats are healthier for your dog than table scraps due to the herbs, spices, salt and so on that we add to our food. These are the no. Made of natural whole food ingredients sourced from right here in the US and even supplemented with added antioxidants, these small-sized treats are just 3. They also come in a resealable ziplock bag to guarantee their continued freshness. Flavors available include beef and turkey; chicken and lamb; chicken and venison; turkey and duck; and lamb and salmon. Boasting credentials of percent wheat free with no added corn, soy or artificial colors and flavors, these treats would be ideal for dogs suffering from allergies. The Wellness WellBites would certainly be an easy addition to your training arsenal as they are soft and chewy. Pet Botanics Training Rewards Treats for Dogs The bacony flavor of these small yet nutritious treats are guaranteed to make any dog want to work for them. I mean, have you ever seen a dog turn their nose up to bacon? Made in the USA with pork liver as the number 1 ingredient, with real bacon added for irresistible flavor, these soft aromatic treats your dog is sure to love. They are a perfectly small size and low calorie for frequent and repetitive rewards during training. There are no artificial preservatives, no BHT, BHA or soy but instead the treats are full of vegetables and include flax-seed and salmon oil. They really are tasty and nutritious. So what are you paying for? All-American made with no wheat, corn, soy or gluten, these jerky treats are smoked for 15 hours before they make it into their packaging. Although the treats themselves are 7 inches long, they are soft in texture so are easy to divide into smaller, treat-sized portions. As always with their products, quality, taste and flavor are paramount, hence the slightly higher price tag. Being such quality and so tasty, you should use these sparingly during training as a high value reward. Made in the USA from a single ingredient, these are guaranteed to be gluten and grain free with no fillers. Quite simply healthy and delicious. As you can expect with such high-quality treats as these, they are delivered to you freeze dried in an air tight bag to guarantee their freshness and flavor. Your dog will love them! Treat pouches are indispensable if using treats during training with your pooch. Excellent for carrying the recommended duo of low-value and high-value treats. It features a removable and adjustable belt, or can simply clip on to your existing belt with the caribiner clip provided my preferred way of using. It also has elastic loops for securing other items and you can attach your keys, or training whistle, with the caribiner. It can be hand washed or placed into a machine washer on cool, so keeping it clean and hygienic is no problem at all. Available in red, black or blue. Kurgo Go Stuff-It Dog Treat Bag This treat bag is made from nylon, with a drawstring to close the bag and secure the treats when not in use. Like the Petsafe above, it does have a second compartment for you to carry other items you need while on your training adventures. It comes supplied with a caribiner to attach the bag to your belt, but unlike the PetSafe above, no belt supplied. Not a problem as I always prefer my own belts :- All in all, this a good-sized, versatile bag that does what you need from a treat pouch: Keeps the treats secure, your pockets clean and your hands free so you can concentrate on the task in hand. To avoid this, learn to reward and treat during training correctly in the following article: How to use Dog Treats Correctly During Training Final Thoughts… Hopefully this article has given you some useful information and options for the best dog treats for training your dog or puppy. Just keep in mind that not all dogs will respond to the same treats in the same way. It might take a little experimentation before you find the ones your dog will work hard to earn. This has no effect on the eventual price you pay and we are very grateful for your support. 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. No bake pumpkin balls for puppies. Puppies are growing bundles of energy, so they need lots of food. However, be careful not to over-do the portion size. Large breed puppies will obviously require more food than small breed puppies. If you think your puppy is gaining too much weight, or not enough, talk to your vet about modifying their diet. These include chocolate, grapes, macadamia nuts, and raisins. Puppies Love Treats All dog owners know their pups live for treats. And nothing makes a tail wag faster than a delicious snack! Furthermore, treats are also great for positive reinforcement training or giving a puppy energy between meals. While conventional, store-bought treats look good, they can sometimes hide undesirable ingredients. To make sure your pup is getting a nutritious, healthy and all-natural snack why not bake them yourself at home? The other added bonus is that you can save some money, too. If, like some of us, you have lots of big breed dogs, the bill for treats can soon add up! Read on to discover why you should consider making your own healthy puppy treats, what ingredients you should include. For example, do you have a puppy with fussy tastebuds? Of course, you can also add some of the flavours that she absolutely loves. Are Homemade Puppy Treats Healthy? So, are puppy treat recipes healthy? And they can also be cheaper than store-bought treats. If you buy your ingredients in bulk, you can make your dollar stretch further. Simply make a large batch and freeze some for later use. There are plenty of easy homemade puppy treats recipes available. A list of tasty, nutritious recipes that you can try out on your puppies. However, be warned — large adult dogs love these just as much! Peanut butter and honey are two things guaranteed to drive most puppies wild. We have to watch those calories! Photo Credit — The Scrumptious Pumpkin. Click here to check out the recipe. The Novice Chef makes dainty and delicious peanut butter snack sandwiches. Photo Credit — The Novice Chef. Click here for the recipe. However, these are high-calorie treats so be sure to serve them in moderation. These cute flourless donuts have pink frosting and veggie sprinkles. If they taste as good as they look, your pup will be very happy. Made for Calvin the Beagle, these treats contain only six ingredients and take about 10 minutes to make. My pup was very happy to road-test peanut butter, banana and parsley treats from Margaritas in the Rain. They are easy to assemble and, judging by how quickly they disappeared, passed the taste test with flying colors. Our puppies love bananas, which are safe to give in moderation. For a savoury option, try these all natural puppy treats from The Kitchn, which contain bacon fat. Photo Credit — The Kitchn. Click here to view the full recipe. Plus, they have delicious bacon fat that had all our dogs hovering around the kitchen while these were baking! Healthy Homemade Puppy Treats Food allergies and food sensitivities can make life very difficult for both puppies and their owners. They can show up in a number of ways, including skin problems, digestive upsets, and chronic infections. It can be difficult to pinpoint exactly what foods are causing the problem, but eggs, corn, wheat, soy, and milk are common offenders. Since these are often found in store-bought treats, a great way to prevent a breakout is to make your own hypoallergenic treats. Mint and Buckwheat Homemade Puppy Treats Lola the Pitty has a great mint and buckwheat homemade puppy treats recipe that is wheat and dairy-free. Photo Credit — Lola the Pitty. Check out the recipe here. Photo Credit — Bitter Sweet. These biscuits are packed with superfoods like spinach and flaxseeds, so they contain plenty of fibre, antioxidants, and a whole lot of love. Hence, if you want to keep your puppy in trim shape, consider treats with low-calorie sweeteners such as apple and carrot. Homemade Puppy Cookies My Baking Addiction has a recipe for apple carrot homemade puppy treats that contains just four ingredients. Photo Credit — My Baking Addiction. These small, round cookies take just minutes to assemble and are made from ingredients you probably already have to hand. If you are a novice baker, they are a great place to start because it is difficult to go wrong. Pumpkin Puppy Treats Another very simple recipe comes from Kol the Puggle with his no-bake pumpkin balls. Coconut flour, pumpkin and peanut butter are combined to make a snack that the human members of the household can enjoy as well. Here are some ideas for making DIY puppy treats. If you want to go one step further, try your DIY skills on crafting frosted cookies, doggie donuts, or sweet sandwiches. To give your treats an extra edge, consider buying dog cookie cutters. These come in a range of shapes from bones and pawprints, to dogs and kennels. These look great and puppies will absolutely wolf them down. Click here to check them out. Natural Puppy Treats Fruit and vegetables can make great and easy snacks that are healthy and nutritious. Although you should watch the calories and keep in mind that some fruits, such as cherries , are not safe. Like making things yourself? Then why not create a cute replica of your very own puppy! Healthy ways to treat your dog When we are buying treats for our dogs, we need to think carefully about what these treats are going to be used for. Dog treats are not just used in training to reinforce desired behaviors, they are also used on a daily basis by a lot of owners who simply want to give their pups a something nice and tasty to munch on. Best Dog Treats For Labs When we are looking at the best dog treats for Labs, we need to start off by thinking about when they are going to be given these treats, how regularly and in what quantity. However, if you are looking for treats to use when training your Labrador it will pay to be more picky. Training treats are given in far larger amounts on a regular basis. So how to you make that important choice when it comes to the best dog treats for Labs? Natural Dog Treats There are two ways to feed your dog natural dog treats. One is to feed them on raw meat or vegetables as a treat. Your second option for natural dog treats is to buy those which are designed and manufactured with this in mind. They are grain free, and contain no corn, wheat, soy or added artificial preservatives, colours or added flavourings. They are made in the USA, and come in three natural flavours — beef, chicken or duck. The treats are fairly small in size to begin with, but can be further broken down into easily manageable chunks. Making them superb training treats for short training sessions, as well as great one off health dog snacks. Just as importantly, our dogs seem to love the taste too. They are grain free, but still have a crunchy texture which makes them easy to give to your dog without getting too messy in the process. They have six flavour choices, and come in four different sizes. This means that you can save money by buying in bulk if your dog likes them. High in protein, these biscuits convenient for you and very enjoyable for your dog. They come in a great range of 12 different flavour options, with the finest natural ingredients. Made in the USA, they use salmon, turkey, chicken or duck to put together delicious crunchy treats. These natural dog treats do not contain any gluten containing grains and use real meats to get that authentic taste. They also come in a range of sized packets, so you can select the one which suits you best. They promise to contain only premium ingredients, including no artificial preservatives. These natural dog treats are available in a range of sizes, from small to large dog biscuits for different sized dogs. They also come in a variety of weighted packages, giving you a saving when you plan ahead and get more stocked up in the cupboard. Natural Dog treats can be great one off rewards, but they can also provide good everyday training treats if broken down into small enough chunks. With most natural dog treats you will find that the size makes them inappropriate to use as rewards during positive reinforcement training as your dog would rapidly reach his caloric quota for the day. Fortunately, there are some fab options for dog training treats too. Using positive reinforcement techniques not only helps your dog to learn everything you need him to know, but it builds the trust and bond of friendship between you whilst you do it. Allowing you to repeatedly reward your dog with food, without giving him an excessive amount by the end of the training session. Although they do contain high quality ingredients and real meat, they also have some less appealing aspects. Including grains and artificial preservatives. They come in very small pieces, ideal for use in your positive reinforcement training sessions. These healthy dog training treats also have the bonus of being free from artificial preservatives, colours and flavourings. This UK based company produce these tasty treats in a range of flavours, from high quality ingredients. They come in four natural flavours, including pumpkin and banana. Although they are small in size, they have a strong aroma and taste which Labs love. Mix them in with your dog kibble when training for bonus high value rewards. Containing amongst other things vegetables, barley and sugar they do have a high carbohydrate content so make sure that they are in a minority in your treat bag. But your dog will love them as a healthy special treat. Separate out an amount of the kibble he would have at mealtimes, and instead use it to fill your treat bag. These are treats which are of higher value to our dogs, to help reinforce their good behavior by giving them instead of plain kibble on occasions. These high value dog training treats can be something yummy from your fridge, like a cold sausage or some roast chicken breast, or something convenient and from a packet that he really loves. Best Dog Training Treats The best dog training treats are divided into two categories. Those which your dog finds rewarding and can eat in a considerable quantity throughout daily training sessions. And those which are of a high value to him, but can only be given on the odd occasion as they are not an integral part of his diet. Work with your dog to decide which treats you are going to use as occasional high value rewards, and which will make up the bulk of his low value rewarding training treats. Puppy Training Treats When your Labrador is still a young puppy, making sure that his diet is made up of all the right nutrients is very important. Over feeding a puppy could potentially result in excessive growth, which is linked in some cases to the emergence of hip dysplasia. Popular Dog Treats There are a wide range of dog treats available, but some are vastly more popular than others. We have had a look at a few of the highest rated dog treats on the market, to help you understand what makes them so popular. They are not ideal as training treats as they are large and contain a high proportion of carbohydrates, but they can make great occasional special treats. One is the price, they are very cheap. Another is the taste — because they are very palatable to dogs. Best given no more than once a day as a special treat, and take care if your dog has allergies as the main ingredient of these popular dog treats is wheat. Size and price wise they work well. They break into small pieces, and are very low in cost. Including even sugar! They have a strong smell and are made with real bacon and bacon fat, giving them a taste which your Lab will find very appealing. These treats will go down very well with your dog, but they do contain several ingredients that are not necessarily ideal parts of a canine diet. Such as wheat, corn gluten, artificial flavourings and colourings. So a very much appreciated occasional treat for your Labrador but not something to give to him too often. Even the healthiest humans let themselves have something a little bit naughty now and again, special treats are great occasionally. But what about daily regular treats for training? Healthy Dog Treats Healthy dog treats is a an area full of shades of grey. Even amongst experts opinions are divided on what is the most healthy diet for our modern dogs. What we can do is look at the ingredients and choose those which seem to come from appropriate sources — using high quality meat and limited fillers. They contain high quality meats, with no by-products. All natural ingredients — no wheat, corn, soy, or artificial colours, flavours and preservatives. These healthy snacks for dogs are definitely designed as one-off treats, not to be used in training. However, they are fantastic for an early afternoon snack for your Labrador, or to give him a big bonus reward once a day. Just make sure to account for it in your daily food rations. Wellness WellBites Wellness Natural Pet Foods have a line of soft healthy dog treats, coming in five different flavours Labradors love. Because they are soft and fairly small, they also make great occasional treats for bouncy Labrador puppies. Containing strips of jerky, these healthy dog snacks are made in the USA with real chicken as the primary ingredient. You can also break down the jerky strips into smaller pieces, great for putting into your training treats bag. They are made in the USA, using American beef liver, smoked for 15 hours until dry, crunchy and delicious. These treats do not contain any artificial flavourings, or fillers such as corn, soy or gluten. They also have handy score lines, making them easy to break down into bite sized pieces for your dog to eat. However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own. These strong-smelling treats are a good option for overweight dogs as they contain less than 3 calories per treat. However, they are quite pricey. The best treats for your dog are nutritious ones, and these contain peas and sweet potatoes, which are high in iron, fiber, taurine, vitamins, and omegas. Firstly, you have to give your Lab the right type of treats according to their life stage and health issues. Some treats that are suitable for adult Labs may not be suitable for Lab puppies or senior Labs with dental issues. There is a variety of dog treats on the market, but some of them serve different purposes. Have a look at the different types of treats and their purposes. Examples are biscuits, cookies, kibbles, and bars. They can be used for overweight dogs because you can portion out how much you break off and give them. If you have a food dehydrator, you can make these treats for your dog yourself. Never give your dog these treats in their full form, as they can be a choking hazard, but chopping them up into bite-sized pieces should be safe to chew. Apples, cucumber, carrots, plain popcorn, and blueberries are some of the human food treats your dog can enjoy in moderation. Make sure that the treat you give your dog is safe to eat because some human food is poisonous to dogs while others are high in sodium, sugar, and calories which could upset their stomachs. However, a healthy Labrador Retriever can eat any of the treat types listed above due to their large size and strong teeth. In fact, the crunchy treats that might be too hard for puppies and senior Labs are a great option for adult Labs because the harder texture breaks down plaque on their teeth as they chew. However, never give your Lab a treat that is so hard that it hurts if you tap it against your elbow or knee because those are potential choking hazards. What Ingredients Are in Dog Treats? Even in treat form, you should aim to give your dog high-quality ingredients that will benefit them nutritionally. Avoid treats with fillers, lots of preservatives, and synthetic ingredients and instead, get treats that have a shorter list of uncomplicated whole-food ingredients on the packaging. Examples of good ingredients are real fruits, vegetables, and meat. We love our dogs, and you may feel like you should express your feelings about them by giving them treat after treat. Treats are great for rewarding good behavior and training, but dogs do get all the nutrients they require from their meals. If your dog is overweight, it might be better to lay off the treats for a while. Treats are given to dogs as positive reinforcement for good behavior, which means that they should never be given for bad behavior. Avoid treat giving when your dog is jumping, barking, or being disobedient. Instead, give them lots of water. She has grown up with a range of pets, volunteered at countless pet shelters, and is highly passionate about pet care. With so much information out there, Keri-Beth has made it her mission to make pet care as easy and straightforward as possible for anyone in the world. In her spare time, Keri-Beth enjoys camping, photography, and spending time with her husband, who is a professional drummer.Read more Advertisement. Prime Treats Training your puppy can be an exciting journey for any pet owner. Finding the best training treat can be a tricky task. You want tasty treats to engage their attention but to also ensure they are naturally packed with wholesome ingredients to fuel your puppies development. With so many options available, it can be hard to pick the best training treats for your new puppy. Keep reading to learn about all of our top choices, from crunchy biscuits full of nutritious ingredients, to freeze dried treats packed with flavour. At 8 weeks old, you can certainly give your treats to your puppy, however you will need to ensure they are suitable. When picking treats you should consider the nutritional value. At 8 weeks old puppies are still growing and developing and require many essential nutrients such as protein and fatty acids to aid this development. Some treats can be too rich for their sensitive tummies and many contain unhealthy fillers. You should choose small treats with a soft texture to accommodate their small teeth. Dog treats that are too hard can cause damage to their little puppy teeth. When determining portion sizes, take into account that puppies require significantly fewer calories than adult dogs due to their smaller size. Offer puppy treats relatively sparingly in order for them to not lose interest in mealtimes! Puppies are usually ready to start training sessions at 8 weeks old, so now is a great time to introduce them to puppy training treats. What Treats are Best for Puppy Training? Training treats are the strongest tool you have when it comes to training your puppy into an obedient and well behaved dog. When it comes to training treats it is important to make sure you select treats that are both healthy and suitable for your dog. These will be easier for their little mouths as well as limiting excess calories. Human food such as blueberries, cheese, small pieces of carrot or sliced apple can also be used as puppy training treats. Avoid any treats that have are hard or have a chewy texture as these will take them too long to chew and distract them from the training task. All puppies are different and develop their individual preferences for treats. Through trialing different training treats , you can determine your dogs favourite treats and make these the target of your training sessions. What Treats are Safe for Puppies? It is hard to resist spoiling a cute puppy with treats, but it is important to ensure their safety! When it comes to dog treats , puppies should be given natural, safe options that are easy to digest. These treats should not contain any artificial colours, flavors or preservatives. Beef liver treats can be a great option for puppies as they are full of real meat flavour and have a high protein content. Some dogs may be sensitive to grains or gluten and may benefit from grain free and gluten free options. There are many options on todays market specifically formulated for certain allergies. Some human foods are toxic to dogs and should be avoided. These include chocolate, macadamia nuts, mushrooms, onions, grapes and sultanas. Soft treats are also great for puppies because they are generally easier to chew with their small teeth. When selecting soft treats for puppies it is important to read the ingredients label, making sure there are no added sugars or fillers that have little or no nutritional value. Stay away from treats made from rawhide as these are hard for dogs to digest and can cause fatal intestinal blockages. What are the Healthiest Puppy Treats? Picking a healthy treat can be quite a challenge, but it is important to ensure that you provide your puppy with quality ingredients and nutritious benefits. Look for all natural ingredients like real meat, fish, fruit, vegetables, and grains such as brown rice and barley that provide healthy sources of protein, vitamins and minerals. Avoid dog treats that contain, artificial preservatives or other unhealthy ingredients as these can lead to health problems later in life. Pick treats that contain natural preservatives such as mixed tocopherols- a healthy preservative made from vitamin E compounds. Minimally processed dog treats such as dried liver treats, pigs ears and air dried kangaroo tail are some of the best treats for puppies. Some people choose to make their own healthy treats at home to ensure they contain only the freshest and most natural ingredients. Natural low calorie treats including carrot sticks, watermelon and green beans are a popular choice among many dog owners due to their nutritional value and lack of preservatives. Healthy treats can provide additional nutrients to your dogs diet as well as giving them the energy they need to stay active and full of life throughout the day. Professional dog trainers use a variety of treats to reward dogs for desired behaviors and progress in training. Treats should be small and bite sized so they are easy for the dog to quickly consume and the reward can be instantly associated with the behavior being reinforced. Many different types of dog training treats are used. These include all natural treats like beef liver, pieces of meat, cheese, as well as store bought kibble or special commercially produced treats designed for training purposes. The type of dog treat chosen will depend on what motivates the individual dog. Some prefer meaty flavors while others may enjoy the crunchier texture of kibble or other dry treats. But how exactly do dental chews work? The texture of a dental treat acts like a gentle scrubbing brush for puppy gums and teeth, grinding away bacteria and limiting tartar buildup as the puppy chews, allowing for better dental health without requiring any brushing or scrubbing from you. Just like human babies, puppies go through a stage of teething where their teeth and gums can become sore and irritated. Treats that help aid in soothing their pain will not only ease your puppies discomfort, they will also keep your dog occupied and save your shoes and furniture from become a teething toy! To prevent teeth breakages, it is important to only purchase dental treats that are specifically for puppies as they will be suitable for their developing teeth. Many cheap dog treats found in supermarkets and department stores are imported from overseas and may contain toxic ingredients. Reputable brands will list out all the ingredients on the package so you can easily check them against any special dietary restrictions your pet may have. When shopping for the best dog treats in Australia, look for those that are made with high quality ingredients, are naturally preserved and provide nutritional benefits your dog. Prime offers a range of tasty single protein treats, such as their chicken breast bites and lamb liver that contain no cheap fillers. These are great for dogs with food sensitivities. Prime Prime offers a range of tasty single protein treats, such as their chicken breast bites and lamb liver that contain no cheap fillers. Doggie Balm Doggie Balm provides a wide selection of wholesome treats for dogs, specifically designed to help with certain health requirements. Freeze Dry Australia Freeze Dry Australia has an extensive range of freeze dried treats, from green lipped mussels to kangaroo liver, which keep all the natural flavour and nutrients without the need for artificial preservatives. Their entire range of products are Australian made using fresh ingredients sourced from local farmers. This entry was posted in Dogs. Bookmark the permalink. Toni Benton Toni is a lover of all pets, her pets consist of her very cheeky British shorthair cat named Charlie and a rescue cat Rosie who is now nearly 17, not to mention her Dwarf Lop rabbits and Australorp cross Chickens. Toni has years of experience in the pet industry which has given her an insight into designing coops and cages that are safe and fun for all pets. She knows how important it can be to design the perfect environment so she created enclosures that were designed so your pets can comfortably while keeping them safe.

Before you start training your Boxer puppy—or, even better, before you get the puppy—read up on what kind of training is ideal for your breed. Check online, local libraries and local organizations. You can also ask your vet for advice. Remember, the more knowledgeable you are, the better you know how to react under different circumstances. Make sure as well that you have what you need to effectively train your dog. If you're planning to clicker train, get a clicker. If you're planning to crate train, get the right-sized crate. Also be sure to pick up an appropriate collar and leash for general training. A leash should be no more than five to six feet in length. The best leashes for training are leather. Always check your equipment to make sure it is in good order and not liable to snap or break. Training works best when you dedicate a couple of short sessions 10 to 15 minutes twice a day to it. Try to train at times when the dog is not tired, but also not bursting with pent-up energy. Karen Pryor. Publisher: Ringpress Books Consider expending your Boxer's energy before training sessions by allowing him 20 to 30 minutes of high-intensity physical activity. This will enable him to better focus on training. Try to train the dog in a place where there are few distractions, so that your Boxer puppy can focus his attention on you. This means avoiding places with other animals or people. Always begin training in your home or yard and build up to environments with more distractions e. Your commands need to be simple, short, clear and consistent. Don't lecture your dog; they're not human so they don't process language in the same way. Phrases like "I've told you not to do that" or "Please stop chewing on the table" will not work as they are too complicated. John Bradshaw. Publisher: Penguin Experts believe that a given dog registers the first part of the word as the most important, so longer commands such as "Sit Fido if you want a treat" are liable to confuse him. Just say the word "Sit" instead. In general, shouting at any dog is ineffective. This is especially true for Boxers who are hyper breed by nature. Use a firm but pleasant and upbeat voice when instructing your dog; don't yell or lose control. Dogs are very intuitive and will be able to sense your frustration and may react in kind. The tone of voice matters, especially since, again, dogs don't process language in the same way that humans do. So how you say something may mean as much if not more than what you say. Publisher: Penguin Boxers are playful by nature, and a light, breezy tone will not suffice; he will think you are just playing with him if you are not firm enough. Try using hand gestures at the same time as you issue verbal commands. For example, raise your hand at the same time as saying "Sit". Dog behaviorists believe that dogs look for multiple clues as to what we want them to do, which includes the command word, tone of voice, and body language. Admonishing a Boxer puppy too long after the incident is ineffective. If you need to admonish or correct your dog, it needs to be done during or within a few seconds of the act. Dogs will have forgotten the event within seconds of its occurrence, so it's key to address the behavior immediately in order to facilitate the retraining process. Boxers are notoriously stubborn and steadfast, so you may have to correct your puppy numerous times. Always be consistent in your commands and desires of the dog. This helps your dog to understand what is expected. Don't forget to enforce training when you are out and about, so that your dog doesn't just thinking that "Sit" and "Stay" are things he has to do in the yard or house. By enforcing commands in public places it helps your Boxers to understand he must obey under all circumstances. Leave no room for doubt about what is acceptable behavior for your Boxer puppy. If he is not allowed on the furniture, be consistent. Boxers won't understand the concept of "sometimes"; they are either permitted to lie on the couch or they are not. If you live with other people, make sure that everyone in the house is on board with the training program. Using different words for the same action will confuse the dog, disrupt the training already done, and ultimately delay progress. Love Boxer Dogs? Boxer Dogs are great family pets. They can often be referred to as the clown of dogs because of their joyful personality and clumsy behaviour, which can be very entertaining! They are a loyal companion and make great guard dogs, alerting their owners of anyone who approaches the property. Also, they tend to love affection from people they meet, including children, and enjoy an energetic run around with other dogs they come across! However, as with all breeds of dogs, Boxer Dog training from a young age is important. Boxer Dogs are a clever breed and can be quite trainable once you find the right reward to motivate them. The pros of this breed could go on forever. They really are amazing dogs. However, one of the main things people need to consider with this breed is their high energy levels! If you do not have a particularly active lifestyle then the Boxer Dog may not be the right breed for you. Boxers are highly energetic and require lots of exercise and mental stimulation throughout the day. If you are unable to dedicate time to put into exercising your Boxer Dog or finding ways to give mental stimulation, then you will find it exceedingly difficult to train and get along well with your dog. They also hold a reputation for being stubborn. This can cause problems for when you are trying to get them to do something. You need to have a lot of patience and persistence for Boxer puppy training. They are quick learners but you have to get through that stubbornness first in order to train them really well. Boxer Dogs are really energetic! Many people worry that training their new dog is going to be hard. Here are our top 10 tips for training Boxer Dogs to help you along your way… Make sure to exercise before training Boxers are an energetic breed and can become distracted easily. To help focus their attention on to you, exercise them before a training session. Discover what your dog likes When starting your Boxer puppy training, rewards are crucial. Every Boxer Dog is different and, as a result, they will all be motivated by different rewards. For example, some prefer treats and some prefer toys. You need to find out what your dog prefers and use that as a reward. If your dog likes treats, find their favourite treat. If your dog likes toys, find their favourite game. You can use these as rewards for good behaviour, which will make training sessions far easier! Reward Accordingly Depending on the exercise you and your dog are doing, you need to reward accordingly when it comes to Boxer Dog training. For example, if you are training your dog to walk to heel down the road, it may not be a good idea to reward your dog with a game of fetch. Focus on the good stuff Even though your Boxer may exhibit unwanted behaviour sometimes, you still need to focus on the good behaviour. As we said before, Boxer Dogs are stubborn, so reward their good behaviour and you will motivate them to do it more. The more you reward the good behaviour, the more likely it is that it will happen again. Motivation This is a similar point when it comes to Boxer Dog training. Boxers are known to be stubborn, but if we motivate them then they are more likely to do what we ask them to do. Using their favourite treats and other rewards is the best way to do this. So, we need to structure regular play times in for them. Dogs naturally want to play in the evening after their meal. You may notice that at some point in the evening they get a surge of energy and bounce around and want to play. This is a good time to play with them. One, two, three, and go Boxers are a very sociable breed and often get caught up with wanting to play with other dogs. To help with Boxer Dog training and for them to understand that they do not have to stay and play with every dog, you can teach them the 3-second rule. The rule is they can only meet for three seconds and then they are called away. This allows them a brief amount of time to say hello and then come back to you. If you do this enough, you will condition your dog to say hello and then walk on, making your walks a lot less hassle! Change Direction Boxers can be quite excitable when taking them out for walks and they may pull on the lead. To help combat this, you can change direction every time your Boxer Dog walks in front of you. This key point in Boxer dog training will teach them to follow you. And, if you reward them when they are well behaved and next to you, they will learn that they will get treats when they are beside you. Consistency is key It is very important to be consistent with the rules you are setting in place when it comes to Boxer puppy training. If you do not want your dog on the sofa but someone else allows it, then you will confuse your dog. Everyone in the household has to be reading off the same page in order for your dog to understand what it is you want from them. Set clear rules, and make sure everyone sticks to them! Learning to settle Teaching your dog to settle and relax is important for them so that not only can they unwind and relax, but they also understand how they should behave when you have visitors. This is when your dog lays down but rocks their hips over to one side. When your dog is in this position you can reward them and pair it with the word settle. If you wanted to take it a step further you can teach them to do this in their bed. Taking the time to teach them this key skill will really help the harmony in your home! What can good Boxer Dog training look like? Here at Royvon, we absolutely love working with Boxer Dogs to help them reach their full potential and thrive with their owners! Have a look at the video below to find out more! Meet Pippa! Pippa came to Royvon with obedience issues and problems with keeping her focus on her owner. She worked with our trainer Anna to help improve her behaviour! Anna and Pippa made great progress using positive reinforcement to reward her for ignoring possible distractions. Great work Pippa and Anna! Here at Royvon, we love working with dogs of all breeds, not just Boxers! With options to suit everyone from group puppy classes to intensive one-to-one residential training, we can cater for all needs! Whether your pup just needs to learn some basic manners, or they have issues such as aggression and anxiety, our progressive and science-based training methods are here to help! Want to find out more about what we can do to help you and your dog? But at the moment, they need your guidance. For now, this includes sleeping next to you for the first few weeks, maybe even longer. Just have their crate or bed close to wherever you sleep. Our articles on sleeping through the night and establishing a nighttime routine will give you extra tips on getting through this phase. A puzzle toy or Kong will work great at making them feel like you leaving them is actually something quite fun. Toilet training All new puppy parents expect toilet training to be on the cards. It will help to remember your Boxer pup is a bit of a goofball. For now, we definitely want to let your pup get used to you and settle into their new home. Teach your puppy about surfaces — Different surfaces can feel strange to pups. Use surfaces like grass, moss, paving and sand. Basically, make their tail wag and we bet yours will too. Teach your Boxer their name. Teach your Boxer puppy to sit. Remember what we said about Boxers and their jumping? Recall — Trust us. Preventing resource guarding Resource guarding is where your dog fiercely protects something they have and will do everything they can to keep hold of it. Dogs can resource guard food, a toy, even a person. You can do this by teaching them that hands and touch can be a good thing. As always, back up your soft touches with some treats. Remember that consent is also a thing with dogs! Never force your Boxer to be handled or pick them up against their wishes. Socialisation exercises to do this week Training to do this week Husbandry Tasks to do this week — Fireworks — Watch the world go by outside your house — Play dress up. They have such majestic posture, are obedient and alert at all times, and are ideal dogs known to be loyal to the whole family. Brave, fearless, alert, gentle, energetic, and cheerful are just some of the words that can be used to describe the boxer breed of dog. Despite their ferocious looks — Boxers are known to be babies that love attention and are calm in the place of any environment. If you wish to bring a Boxer puppy home there are Boxer dogs for sale in Pune. The boxer breed is known to be very loyal and attentive to their family. The boxer is a working breed of dog that has high energy levels and needs frequent exercise. The dog is definitely a looker with its muscular body, erect posture, and short shiny coat. The boxer breed adapts well to apartments. They get along with children and other dogs and have an underlying sweetness to their behavior and gestures. Boxers have a high sensitivity level and their owners should know about this. The breed does not like to be left alone and enjoys human companionship. You may also want to make a new addition to the family by adopting a boxer puppy. Whatever your reason for interest in the breed — there are a number of factors that you should consider before bringing a boxer puppy home. In this article, we will take a closer look at the specific needs of boxer puppies. By following these rules your dog will grow up to be big, strong, and obedient — what a wonderful addition to the family! Because of the nutritional needs of boxers, they need to be fed high-quality dog food that is rich in Proteins, nutrients, fats, and fiber. Read the ingredients carefully. Avoid packages of food that contain Meat Fillers as this is a low-quality ingredient that includes corn dust and husk or even feathers. You can add veggies like carrots, peas, blueberries, and strawberries that are great for your dog and aid with their digestion. The best alternative for tap water is that you can give your dog the same water you drink — straight from the filter. Ensure that your dog drinks enough water a day. The way to calculate this is to serve your dog 1. Boxers need a lot of exercise By just looking at a boxer — you can tell that this breed of dog needs a lot of exercises. Puppies need at least 20 minutes of exercise a day — while fully grown dogs need a minimum of 40 minutes of exercise daily. Exercise can include taking your dog to the park, going for walks, or playing with your puppy. Puppy-proof your home Boxers are extremely fun-loving and inquisitive dogs. Ensure that you do not keep any sharp objects at floor level as your puppy may chew on them while teething. You must also be sure to keep plants at home which are not toxic to dogs. Electric cables must be covered and kept out of reach from your dog. Serving your dog small frequent meals aids with digestion. Another fact to be aware of is that Boxer puppies are prone to bloat, so ensure that your dog does not wolf down a whole meal in just seconds. Instead, feed your puppy little by little. Related Posts. Boxer Dog House Training Overview Housebreaking your Boxer does not need to be a struggle of wits or will power between you and your dog. How do you properly house train a Boxer? By following 2 main rules: 1. Use a method that prevents your Boxer from eliminating inside the home. Provide and offer an area to relieve themselves that is both easily accessible and available when they need it. Keeping these 2 training rules in mind, housebreaking your Boxer can be done without stress or frustration. Rule 1 The goal is for your Boxer to not eliminate inside the house but how do you accomplish this? It is really easier than you might think. There are 2 basic methods. Watch them like a hawk - If you are lucky enough to be able to stay home with your Boxer until he or she is house trained, you can use the Umbilical Cord Training Method. If you are away during the day, default to this method any time that you are home and it can be reasonably incorporated. You will simply put a leash on your Boxer and tether the other end to you. You may connect it to your belt loop or around your wrist. The important element is that your Boxer will never be more than 6 feet away from you. With this method, you will take your Boxer puppy outside every 2 hours for a 2 month old, every 3 hours for a 3 month old and so on. The less a pup is allowed an opportunity to have an "accident" inside, the more successful the house training will be done. And we must remember that essentially there are no accidents. When nature calls, a puppy will urinate or eliminate where they are at that moment. Bladder and bowel muscles are not at full strength and the Boxer has little control in regard to holding needs. Therefore, it is the owner's job to make sure that their Boxer is outside in the bathroom area, at the time that the body calls for it. The other method is confinement by crating and is not recommended. For times that you cannot be right with your Boxer puppy , it is best to have him in a gated off area. If the room that you choose has carpeting, it is recommended to obtain a piece of linoleum, that will not be installed, it will simply be placed down. It's a good idea to keep the gate open when you are home, allowing your Boxer to check things out and even play, should he choose. It will allow him to get used to the area for times when you are not home. Do keep in mind that without full control over holding his needs, he must still be taken out at the times mentioned above. When you are not home, pee pads or paper can be placed down; however do not expect your puppy to learn 2 methods of housebreaking. The beneficial element is that it will be confined to one space easy to clean up and as the Boxer grows, he will be able to hold his needs for longer periods of time, with the end result being able to hold on for the 8 hours or so that owners are away for work. Rule 2 You must clearly show your Boxer where you expect him to go to the bathroom. If there are any doubts in your dog's mind about where he is supposed to eliminate this will make for one confused dog. And, it will most likely lead to that dog just giving up and going inside the home. Choose a spot that works well in all weather. What looks like a great location on a warm spring day may not work so great when your older, trained Boxer has to hike thorough a foot of snow to reach it in the winter. The area should be roughly 8 feet in diameter and used for nothing else but bathroom needs. If you want to play with your Boxer or do some outdoor command training , do this after he goes to the bathroom and in a separate location at least 15 feet from the bathroom area. The location that you choose as the main spot for your Boxer to use as a bathroom is vital. A dog will become very confused if you show them a new area each time you bring them outside. Just having the yard or "somewhere outside" is not specific enough and will impede progress. The 1 complaint that owners have in regard to housebreaking their puppy is that he or she urinates or eliminates right after coming back into the house. While this may just be a matter of the dog's body not having the need while outside, most of the time it is because an owner did not give the dog an opportunity to do so. Puppies need to sniff around - stand in the center of the chosen area - and with your Boxer on a 6 foot lead, allow him to sniff away any where within that diameter. As they are sniffing, their body is readying to push out a bowel movement and an owner must allow for enough time to go by for this to happen. The mistake occurs when an owner heads back in with their Boxer, only minutes before the dog is ready and that is when the dog eliminates seemingly right after entering back inside. As digested food moved through the intestinal tract, the puppy clenched bowel muscles in anticipation of being taken out. A pup needs 15 to 20 minutes to find just the "perfect" spot and to relax enough to do the deed. How to Begin Using the above Umbilical Cord Training Method Each time your puppy makes a motion that implies that they are about to eliminate, you must bring your dog outside to a designated area. In some cases, you may need to pick up your puppy and run to that spot - expect to do this several times, as even finishing in the designated bathroom area is preferred to not at all. Still give praise even if he only finished up there. Don't scold for what's been done inside, as again, the dog went to the bathroom in the area he was in at the time. Taken outside enough will stop this from happening - and don't worry, as your Boxer matures, he will be able to hold on for about 1 hour extra, for each month that he ages. As soon as your Boxer is done with their business, give tons of praise. A puppy has no idea that he did something right, unless it is conveyed to him via words and at times, additionally a treat. You do not need to give your dog a treat each time they "perform" good; but you should shower your Boxer with pats and tons of happy and excited words. Act as if your dog just did the best possible action in the world! A dog aims to please their owner; if you make your Boxer feel as if he did something extraordinarily wonderful, he or she will be prone to do it again. This does not need to be done forever. Once a dog performs enough repetitions of a certain action, it becomes habit. However, an occasional "good dog! Block off certain rooms that are not in use and use a gate to keep your Boxer on the level of the home where you are. If "allowed" to have accidents, they will continue to believe that they can go urinate or eliminate inside of the home. Even if you yell "NO! Be sure that it is large enough for the pup to: play, sleep, eat and go to the bathroom. Crating does not work when a dog is left home alone. Canines do not care to go to the bathroom in a confined space, but if left with no other choice, they will.Bring your Boxer out about 20 minutes before you leave. Bring him out as soon as you arrive back home. Don't scold for any messes that occurred while you were gone, it makes no sense to reprimand a dog for a natural bodily function. Leaving Your Boxer Outside There are several reasons why a Boxer of any age should not be sent out into the yard without supervision. The Boxer is among the top dog breeds that are stolen. Where are they taken from? Their own yards. A fence may keep other dogs out, but it will not keep out a thief intent on jumping over the fence to take your helpless puppy. Until a Boxer is old enough to scare off a thief, do not leave your puppy outside. In addition, outside elements such as the hot sun can quickly overheat a dog causing heat exhaustion, which ultimately leads to death if treatment is not given in enough time. Your Boxer puppy should be taken out many times during the day, given that he or she sleeps through the night: When they first wake up After each meal times a day Before bedtime A general guideline in house training a dog is that a 2 month old Boxer puppy can hold its needs for 2 hours, a 3 month old for 3 hours and so on. The maximum time that any dog should ever be expected to hold their needs is 8 hours and this is for a full grown adult canine. Taking steps to help your Boxer sleep through the night can also help to some extent. Keeping in mind that meals must be spaced apart from exercise to help prevent bloat , a good bout of cardio about 2 hours before bed may help a pup sleep better through the night. This gives the owner an opportunity to see their dog at such a young age and then watch them quickly grown into strong and large adults. If you are purchasing a Boxer puppy, the dog should be at least 8 weeks old. In many regions it is illegal to have a puppy at a younger age. Up until 8 weeks, the puppy will need to be nourished by its mother. We're Home! That Boxer newborn puppy that you picked out has rapidly matured into an 8 week old and it's time for your new family member to join the household. Bringing a puppy home should be well planned in advance. If you have a large family, other members must be told to keep the environment calm and peaceful until your Boxer puppy has a chance to gain their bearings and become used to its new home. Have everything you need so that you do not need to suddenly run out to the store for a forgotten item. Do not allow the puppy to be rushed at by many people wishing to hug, pat and smother him or her with kisses. That can come a bit later. Your new Boxer must be approached gently and with warm voices. Puppies are a good, robust size but are still fragile. It is very sad when a puppy is stepped on accidentally; this can cause great harm. From birth to the 1 year mark, trauma is the leading cause of fatalities with this breed. Children must understand how to gently treat a pup. Very young children should be watched during interaction. All members of the home must be very aware of what may be underfoot. Your Boxer puppy should be given a tour of the home. Do not expect your new pup to know where everything is! Show him or her where they can find their water, where to expect their meals to be served, their dog bed and their toys. A puppy needs the security of knowing where to find what they need. Puppies will need quite a bit of care from you. This includes: Feeding - A puppy should be fed times per day. More feeding information can be found in our Feeding section. Only high quality puppy food must be given. This will be a time of rapid growth and your Boxer puppy needs the right dog food for optimal health. Vaccinations - All puppies will need the full schedule of vaccinations. This is absolutely vital to the health of the pup. If the budget is tight, your dog's veterinarian should be able to provide a discount or recommended animal clinics which provide shots for a very minimal fee. This includes that absolutely necessary Heart worm prevention medication, as well. Comfort and safety - Boxer puppies are rambunctious. They will jump, bounce and play. They will need loving attention and interaction with their owner or owners. Plenty of room to play, lots of toys and acts of love are crucial to the physical and emotional growth of a pup. A puppy is just learning about its world; yelling or hitting is never called for. Through love, patience and understanding a puppy will learn what is expected. Negative reactions from its owner will simply teach the puppy to be afraid. Housebreaking - This should begin as soon as you bring your puppy home. Read more in our housebreaking section. When started early and with consistency, your Boxer puppy will soon learn where it is appropriate to eliminate. A schedule - Puppies know nothing about the world except for what you show them. It is important to keep a puppy on a schedule that they can depend on. Normal times for baths, exercise , walks, feedings, grooming , play time and sleep time are recommended. Some Things to Expect The first year will be full of changing behaviors and a change in physical appearance. Here's what you can expect: A Boxer puppy will whine if he is hungry, wants attention or once he is learning house training, if he has a bathroom need The time to instill training for barking and other behavior is now - before habits can form Puppies are super hyper , but will also sleep quite a bit - Anywhere from 15 to 18 hours per day including night time and daytime naps The first year is one of rapid growth, but do expect starts and stops. As your Boxer reaches adolescence, there is sometimes a brief period of stalled weight gain at which time a Boxer may appear too skinny. This typically only lasts a few months before that final gain happens that allows him to fill out. Puppyhoood is the time to do socialization training - You'll want to introduce your puppy to as many people, other dogs, events and situations as possible so that he learns control and gains self-confidence. Health Check A Boxer puppy should be checked over every day to check for certain issues. Eyes- The eyes should be clear and bright. Any excessive discharge is a reason to go to the veterinarian Ears and nose - These areas should be cleaned each day with a damp, soft washcloth. Discharge of any color is a reason for a checkup with the vet Breathing - A puppy's breathing should always be clear and easy. Forced breathing, wheezing, coughing or other strange sounds must be taken care of immediately through the dog's veterinarian or closest animal hospital Limping - Puppies may be a bit clumsy or wobbling when very young. However limping is never normal. This must be brought to a vet's attention ASAP Tank - 9 months old Photo courtesy of owner: Jaymie Conner Skin - It is normal for a Boxer puppy to have some loose skin around the neck area and there will be some facial folds. These areas can hold in moisture which can lead to a fungal or bacterial infection. Moisture can accumulate when the pup drinks or when he drools. Keep the area nice and dry to prevent any problems.

Although a playful pup sounds endearing, consider how many games of fetch or tag you want to play each day, and whether you have kids or other dogs who can stand in as playmates for the dog. Click here for more information on this characteristic Belgian Malinois Overview The Belgian Malinois is a medium-sized dog that at first glance resembles a German Shepherd. Malinois are short-haired, fawn-colored dogs with black masks. They are one of four types of Belgian herding dogs, and have been shown in the U. Originally developed in Malines, Belgium, Malinois have a great deal of stamina and truly enjoy working. They are intelligent and very active dogs that excel at many tasks. In addition to herding, they also do well with police work, search and rescue, and performance events, such as agility. People who are not familiar with the Malinois often confuse them with the German Shepherds, but there are significant differences in the body structure and temperament of the two breeds. Malinois are smaller dogs with lighter bones. Malinois are fawn-colored, red, or brown, and the tips of their hair are black, while the German Shepherd is usually tan with a black saddle. Additionally, the Malinois has a more refined, chiseled head than the German Shepherd and smaller, more triangular ears. Many think that the Malinois is more alert and quicker to respond than the German Shepherd. Some Malinois are friendly and assertive, but others are reserved and aloof with strangers. They should never have a fearful or aggressive temperament. Because of their energy level and sensitivity, Malinois are recommended only for people who have previously parented dogs and are skilled in dog training. Malinois are very intense dogs who like to be included in all of the family activities. If you have decided that the Malinois is the breed for you, you should expose your dog to many different people, dogs, other animals, and situations as early as possible. Puppy kindergarten classes are recommended for your Malinois puppy, followed by obedience training. Malinois are quick learners and eager to do whatever their people ask of them. They excel are obedience, tracking, agility, flyball, herding, showing, Schutzhund, and other protection sports. But a Malinois parent should never forget that this is a breed developed to protect and herd. Poorly socialized dogs may behave aggressively out of fear or shyness. Additionally, although well-socialized Malinois are good with children, especially if they are raised with them, they may have a tendency to nip at their heels and try to herd them when playing. Belgian Malinois Highlights Belgian Malinois have a great deal of energy and need a lot of exercise. Make sure you have the room and time to provide it. Malinois are very intelligent and alert. They also have strong herding and protection instincts. Early, consistent training is critical! They are very people-oriented and want to be included in family activities. Malinois are constant shedders. They shed heavily twice a year. Belgian Malinois are intense dogs who are play-oriented and sensitive. Training should be fun, consistent, and positive. Because of their intelligence, high energy, and other characteristics, Malinois are not recommended for inexperienced dog parents. The four varieties are the Malinois fawn-mahogany, short coat with black mask , the Tervuren fawn-mahogany, long coat with black mask , the Laekenois fawn, rough coat , and the Groenendael black, long coat. The Club du Chien de Berger Belge Belgian Shepherd Dog Club was formed in September to determine which of the many different types of dogs was representative only of the shepherd dogs developed in Belgium. In November of that same year, breeders and fanciers met on the outskirts of Brussels to examine shepherd dogs from that area. After much deliberation, veterinary professor Adolphe Reul and a panel of judges concluded that the native shepherd dog of that province were square, medium-sized dogs with well-set triangular ears and very dark brown eyes and differed only in the texture, color, and length of hair. Subsequent examinations of dogs in other Belgian provinces resulted in similar findings. In , Professor Reul wrote the first Belgian Shepherd Dog standard, which recognized three varieties: dogs with long coats, dogs with short coats, and dogs with rough coats. By , however, the Belgian Shepherd Dog was finally recognized as a breed. In , he purchased a pale, fawn rough-haired dog called Vos I, or Vos de Laeken from a cattle dealer in northern Belgium. After that mating, Vos I was bred to his daughters, establishing a line of very homogeneous dogs with grey rough hairs and short hairs, and fawn rough hairs and short hairs. Breeders decided to give each of the different varieties of Belgian Shepherd Dogs their own names. The city of Malines had formed a club for the promotion of fawn short-haired Belgian Shepherd dog in .The first dressage trial, held on July 12, , in Malines, was won by M. Belgian Shepherds were also used as guard dogs and draught dogs. They were the first dogs to be used by the Belgian police. Before World War II, international police dog trials became very popular in Europe, and Belgian dogs earned a number of prizes at the trials. When World War I broke out, many Belgian Shepherd Dogs were used by the military for a number of jobs including messenger dogs, Red Cross dogs, ambulance cart dogs, and, according to some, light machine-gun cart dogs. During the s and s, several outstanding Malinois kennels were started in Belgium. During the first decades of the 20th century, Malinois and Groenendael were the most popular varieties of Belgian Shepherd dogs to be exported to other countries. He sold the two Malinois to L. De Winter of Guttenberg, New Jersey. De Winter produced several litters from the Malinois under his Winterview kennel name. He also bred Malinois for a short time under the name of Castlehead Kennel. By the end of the s, the Groenendael and Malinois Belgian Sheepdogs had risen in popularity to rank among the top five breeds. During the s, a few Malinois were registered with the AKC as imports trickled into the country. In that same year, John Cowley imported two Malinois and began his Netherlair kennel. He showed several of his dogs and several people became interested in them. By the s, more people were breeding and showing Malinois. In the last decade, Belgian Malinois dogs have received a lot of attention for their work in the military, drug detection agencies, search and rescue operations, and police forces around the country. As a result, many Malinois have been imported to the U. The mission was a success, and Conan was honored as a hero at The White House after making a full recovery. Belgian Malinois Size Males are 24 to 26 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh 60 to 80 pounds. Females are 22 to 24 inches tall and weigh 40 to 60 pounds. Belgian Malinois Personality Belgian Malinois puppies are often curious and playful, willing to approach people and be held by them. This is an outstanding working dog who is confident and protective in any situation. The watchdog abilities of the Malinois are excellent. They protect their people and property with only as much force as is required. Shyness and aggression are rare in this breed. Socialization helps ensure that your Malinois puppy grows up to be a well-rounded dog. Enrolling them in a puppy kindergarten class is a great start. Inviting visitors over regularly and taking your pup to busy parks, stores that allow dogs, and on leisurely strolls to meet neighbors will also help them polish their social skills. Some dogs show pain and lameness on one or both rear legs, but you may not notice any signs of discomfort in a dog with hip dysplasia. As the dog ages, arthritis can develop. Hip dysplasia is hereditary, but it can also be triggered by environmental factors, such as rapid growth from a high-calorie diet or injuries incurred from jumping or falling on slick floors. This is a degenerative eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. PRA is detectable years before the dog shows any signs of blindness. Fortunately, dogs can use their other senses to compensate for blindness, and a blind dog can live a full and happy life. Elbow Dysplasia. This is a heritable condition common to large-breed dogs. This can lead to painful lameness. Your vet may recommend surgery to correct the problem or medication to control the pain. Anesthesia Sensitivity. Belgian Malinois are very sensitive to anesthesia. They have a higher-than-average rate of death when put under anesthesia because of their muscle-to-fat ratio. Be sure your vet understands this sensitivity before allowing your Malinois to have surgery or even have their teeth cleaned. Belgian Malinois Care Belgian Malinois can do well in small quarters if they receive enough exercise. They prefer cool climates but adapt well to warmer environments. They should always be included as part of the family and live indoors. If possible, provide your Malinois with some off-leash exercise in a fenced area in addition to long walks or jogging. If you like to hike or jog, your Belgian Malinois will be happy to be by your side. Consider training your dog to compete in obedience or agility. Puppies have different exercise needs. From 9 weeks to 4 months of age, puppy kindergarten once or twice a week is a great way for them to get exercise, training, and socialization, plus 15 to 20 minutes of playtime in the yard, morning and evening. Throw a ball for them to fetch. From 4 to 6 months of age, weekly obedience classes, daily half-mile walks, and playtime in the yard will meet their needs. From 6 months to 1 year of age, play fetch with a ball or Frisbee for up to 40 minutes during cool mornings or evenings, not in the heat of the day. Continue to limit walks to a half mile. Avoid hard surfaces such as asphalt and concrete. As they continue to mature, you can increase the distance and time you run. These graduated levels of exercise will protect their developing bones and joints. Malinois are sensitive and highly trainable. Be firm, calm, and consistent with them. Anger and physical force are counterproductive. Belgian Malinois Feeding Recommended daily amount: 2 to 3 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals. How much your adult dog eats depends on their size, age, build, metabolism, and activity level. It almost goes without saying that a highly active dog will need more than a couch potato dog. The quality of dog food you buy also makes a difference. The better the dog food, the further it will go toward nourishing your dog. First, look down at them. You should be able to see a waist. Then place your hands on their back, thumbs along the spine, with the fingers spread downward. You should be able to feel but not see their ribs without having to press hard. The hard topcoat and dense undercoat provide weather resistance for a dog who was bred to work outdoors in all conditions. The hair is slightly longer around the neck, forming a sort of mini-mane. The coat is typically fawn- to mahogany-colored with a black mask on the face, black ears, and black tips on the hairs. Fawn-colored Malinois sometimes have a tiny bit of white on the tips of their toes or a small white spot on the chest. The short, smooth coat of the Malinois is easy to groom. Brush it weekly with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Malinois shed year-round, more heavily in the spring and fall. Daily brushing is even better if you want to prevent gum disease and bad breath. Handle their paws frequently dogs are touchy about their feet and look inside their mouth and ears. As you groom, check for sores, rashes, or signs of infection such as redness, tenderness, or inflammation on the skin, in the nose, mouth, and eyes, and on the feet. Eyes should be clear, with no redness or discharge. Your careful weekly exam will help you spot potential health problems early. Belgian Malinois Children And Other Pets Well-socialized Malinois are good with children, especially if they are raised with them, but because of their herding heritage, they may have a tendency to nip at their heels and try to herd them when playing. You must teach your Malinois that this behavior is unacceptable. Always teach children how to approach and touch dogs , and always supervise any interactions between dogs and young children to prevent any biting or ear or tail pulling on the part of either party. No dog should ever be left unsupervised with a child. If you want your Malinois to get along with other animals you must start early and reward them for appropriate behavior. Belgian Malinois Rescue Groups Belgian Malinois are often adopted without any clear understanding of what goes into owning one. There are many Malinois in need of adoption and or fostering. Belgian Malinois Breed Organizations Finding a reputable dog breeder is one of the most important decisions you will make when bringing a new dog into your life. Reputable breeders are committed to breeding healthy, well-socialized puppies that will make great companions. They will screen their breeding stock for health problems, socialize their puppies from a young age, and provide you with lifetime support. On the other hand, backyard breeders are more interested in making a profit than in producing healthy, well-adjusted dogs. They may not screen their breeding stock for health problems, and they may not socialize their puppies properly. As a result, puppies from backyard breeders are more likely to have health problems and behavioral issues. More Info For You. Life Span Did You Know? The Malinois originated in Belgium in the late s and was bred to guard and herd livestock. The Belgian Malinois is one of four different types of Belgian sheepdogs, including the Tervuren , Laekenois, and Groenendael. Of the Belgian sheepdogs, the Malinois is the most common and widely recognized. Although they were originally bred for herding, the Belgian Malinois excels as a military or police dog. The Belgian Malinois was used for military purposes as far back as World War I with many soldiers bringing their Malinois dogs home to the States after the war ended. Following that time, the AKC saw a large increase in registrations of this breed. Today, the Malinois is more commonly found as a working breed. Some facts about Belgian Malinois are that they are versatile working dogs and popular military dogs. These dogs are exceptional at finding explosives, narcotics, and tracking fugitives attempting to avoid apprehension. The Malinois is a protective and highly intelligent dog breed. As one of the most active dog breeds , the Malinois is a hardworking dog that may be serious when on task, but will also likely exhibit a puppy-like playfulness and energy until around the age of three. As long as they are properly socialized and trained, Belgian Malinois tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Because of their protective instinct, they will be initially wary of strangers. But, if they are well-socialized, they will tend to warm up once introduced. They tend to bark to alert, which can become a nuisance if you unintentionally encourage the behavior or do not train your dog to stop barking early on. The Belgian Malinois is a moderately adaptable dog breed. Although they can adapt to apartments if enough time is dedicated to daily exercise and mental stimulation, they are better suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run. They do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat and are sensitive to very cold temperatures. Because they bond closely with their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they should not be left alone for long periods of time. Potential health concerns to be aware of in a Belgian Malinois include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia , progressive retinal atrophy, and thyroid disease. Good breeding practices make a big difference and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As one of the smartest dog breeds , the Belgian Malinois picks up on training quickly and is generally eager to please. However, they are also energetic, get bored easily, have a strong herding instinct, and can be strong-willed. First-time owners are encouraged to enroll in puppy training classes or enlist the help of a trainer. Belgian Malinois have short, waterproof coats that will shed a little year-round and will shed heavier as seasons change. Brushing weekly or a few times a week and the occasional bath are usually enough to keep them comfortable and their coat looking great. Cutting nails once or twice a month is usually enough to keep them from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Daily tooth brushing, along with cleanings at the vet as needed, is ideal dental care for dogs. Belgian Malinois are high-energy working dogs. They need a lot of daily activity and a job to do to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus playtime and time to run are usually enough, but they will also usually be up for more activity if you are. These dogs are versatile and athletic. Once puppies finish growing and their bones are done developing, you can try a variety of activities with them. Playing frisbee , running, hiking, swimming, and more can all be fun activities to do with your Mal. Fully-grown Belgian Malinois usually stand inches tall and weigh between pounds. Belgian Malinois generally live for years on average. The Belgian Malinois is a world-renowned military service dog. A life-size bronze statue of a Belgian Malinois is featured in the memorial to military dogs in Fayetteville, North Carolina. There are also many dog movies featuring them, like the film Max, which features a great and heart-touching story about a former U. Marine Service Dog. Featured Belgian Malinois Article.

Aug 28, Share Golden retrievers are a popular companion because of their big hearts and loyal nature. Their enduring personalities have also brought them to the screen, and you can find several movies that include the popular dog as a character. If you are looking forward to a movie night, there are several movies to choose from that a golden retriever lover can relate to. From heartwarming to heart-tugging, you can find yourself in fits of laughter, then suddenly reaching for the tissues when you view these films. They are mostly child and family-friendly pictures, with lighthearted options too. Turn down the lights and salt up your popcorn to enjoy some brilliant golden Retriever movies! Heartwarming and sometimes jaw clenching, you will be captivated the entire film while you watch the story of three pets embark on an adventure to find their owners. Their owners set off to California on holiday, and these courageous and determined pets, thinking they have been abandoned, set off to find them. They meet new friends along the way and find themselves in some sticky situations that they navigate and overcome together. Shadow is the brave and wise golden retriever voiced by Don Ameche. Homeward Bound — Lost in San Francisco They do it again in this sequel to the favorite, only this time they get lost in the city. Packed with comedy and adventure as they navigate their way back home, you will love this sequel as much as the original. The original cast reunites, but Ralph White takes over the voice of the beloved golden retriever Shadow. Buddy is the character played by the golden retriever and is a real-life sport-loving dog! This movie will keep you enthralled and is a captivating and entertaining tale for children. In the first movie, Josh meets Buddy and learns he can play basketball, and since then, four more films have been made, turning Air Bud into an exciting franchise. Air Bud is the proud owner of five lovable and mischievous pups. These talking pups learn some valuable lessons while facing obstacles and band together through teamwork and adventure. The franchise includes: Snow Buddies : The puppies are transported to Alaska, where they compete with a boy in a dog-sled competition. Space Buddies : The pups accidentally get stranded on a crewless space shuttle and head off to space for an intergalactic adventure. Spooky Buddies : There are mysterious things going on at a mansion rumored to be haunted by the Halloween Hound, and the pups go off to investigate. Santa Paws 2: The Santa Pups : When the spirit of Christmas begins to disappear, the mischievous stowaways must help save Christmas. Super Buddies : Each dog earns a superpower when they discover mysterious rings at Fernfield Farm. The Parent Trap Sammy, the golden retriever, is not the main attraction in this heartwarming film but is the beloved companion to Hallie. Hallie has a twin she discovers after many years at a camp, and they decide to switch places. The storyline sends a message of deep love as the golden retriever Bailey finds his purpose while living through four different lifetimes with humans and in different time periods. He journeys through wild adventures, where he gains additional insights, ultimately bringing him to realize that his purpose is to love and support his human. The Retrievers Pilot, a stray golden retriever, is adopted by a loving family who soon learns she is pregnant. The kids grow close to the growing pups knowing that they will need to be rehomed. Pilot is determined to get her puppies back and leads a quest with Lowry to retrieve them. The adventure is action-packed and comical and portrays lessons about life and what is truly important. Marley is a mischievous pup that always manages to win the heart of his family, beautifully capturing the companionship of unconditional love. This true story will have you in hysterics and pull at your heartstrings as you learn to appreciate your furry friend a little bit more. The Art of Racing in the Rain Through the eyes of a golden retriever named Enzo, you get a glimpse into his life and the valuable lessons he learns from his owner and the other humans around him. He gains insights into how life on the racetrack can be adapted and used to navigate life. You will find yourself laughing and crying through this uplifting and heartfelt story of companionship and love. This is a fascinating story of devotion and bravery that will attract the interests of all dog owners. There are some heart-tugging moments that will likely induce tears, but a happy ending will make it worthwhile. Napoleon Napoleon is an adventurous and adorable story about a golden retriever that wants to explore the world. When he accidentally flies off in a basket attached to helium balloons, he goes through some adventures to find his way home. He meets friends along the way and learns a valuable lesson that there is no place like home. Unfortunately, his new fortune gets him caught up in a dog-napping scheme , but his street smarts and loyal friends set off on an adventure to keep him safe. This movie is lighthearted and silly and will have the whole family laughing. A Golden Christmas Even though the cover showcases a golden retriever, it is not the star of the show. This movie is a Christmas romance story where two childhood friends fall in love. A Golden Christmas 2: The Second Tail When Lisa goes walking with her neighbor and his pups, they interrupt a wedding proposal where she learns it is her ex-boyfriend. Everyone knows they belong together, so with the help of the dogs, they try to get them back together. This is another lighthearted romance story involving retrievers, and the characters all share the same love for the dogs. It involves a golden retriever that gets sick with cancer, and the community comes together to raise money for its expensive surgery. This is a wonderful and endearing family movie that shows how family and friends can pull together in hard times. The Gold Retrievers In the Gold Retrievers, a year-old boy and his mischievous golden retriever attempt to save their family home. Together they dig up a gold medallion that leads to a fortune, and with their neighbor Ana, they try to reclaim the treasure. On their quest through the woods with an ancient curse, they encounter booby traps and are tracked by two thieves trying to get their hands on the treasure. This fun movie is cute and comical, and kids will enjoy the cheesy sense of humor. Conclusion Golden retrievers make great Hollywood dogs! Even if they are not the stars of the show, their roles in movies clearly portray their loving, loyal, intelligent, and sweetly mischievous natures. In these tales of bravery and adventure, love, and devotion, you will find yourself inspired to find a golden companion of your own. The thief, shows up in the form of a sweet natured Golden Retriever who the kids, Liz and Widdy, appropriately name Pilot. Of course Dad and Mom want the dog to be returned to the home from which it has wandered and the kids want Pilot to stay. Since no owner comes forth, Pilot becomes part of the Lowry clan. Who has adopted whom? Just when Tom and his wife Karen appear to have adjusted to one dog, Pilot delivers six adorable puppies. Dumas, Geogia, Wanderer, and Milkshake. The little darlings begin by clinging to mom but soon commence their puppy destruction of slippers, plants, furniture, etc. Pilot is depressed and runs off to find her puppies, frantically followed by Widdy. When the two are found, Tom relinquishes and decides they can adopt back one of the pups. The family begins their detective work determined to find at least one to bring home. Their task is particularly difficult in that it also becomes a real lesson in appropriate adoption and responsible pet ownership. As they set out to find the pups, they discover how unfortunate some of the homes are for the little dogs and learn a great lesson in pet guardian responsibility. Retrieving the Retrievers: One of the pups is adopted by a farmer who brings the little retriever home to his farm. The mischievous pup jumps out of the box and is accidentally run over by the heavy machinery. For this scene, the puppy was nowhere near the tractor when it was moving and was never in any real danger. This however, becomes a lesson in loss and the family learns how much each of the little pups has meant to them. When the family becomes aware that the puppies may have run off into a lumber mill, they are desperate to locate the pups before one comes to any harm. For this scene, the trainers released and called the dogs from point A to point B and rewarded them with treats for following their cues. When the lumber mill equipment is seen in motion, no dogs were on the set. In post-production the scenes of the active mill and the dogs running were edited together to create the sequence. Profiling the Pups: The trainer was aware that the production needed six puppies and purchased several from different litters. Knowing the schedule for filming enabled the trainers to select puppies that were at least 8 weeks old and naturally weaned from the mothers. At the time filming began, the pups were eight to nine weeks old. Since they would be going to new homes at the end of production, the trainers did not give them names. Instead they distinguished each puppy by collar colors so that the new guardians could name the new addition to their own family. The new owners were mostly relatives and employees of trainers: one went to the owners of a private boarding school where the pup is quite happy frolicking in the country surroundings with his new large family of children; two went to employees of the trainer; one to the father-in-law of one employee; and one to the line producer of picture. That left one last puppy. After having the veterinarian check out all the pups, the trainers found that one puppy had a heart murmur. While the pup was quite healthy, the vet advised that this condition could cause the dog to have a shorter life than the others and that the life expectancy was very difficult to determine. The trainers believed it was their responsibility to candidly inform any perspective guardian that there was this risk. However, the people from the school who had already passed the test as guardians wanted a second puppy. After discussing it with their vet, they adopted the dog and gave it a caring home to share with its puppy companion, lots of attention from adoring children and a spacious country environment. Chewy was actually given a slipper to chew on and play with in pre-production so it became very natural for him to chew the prop while being filmed. The pup most into carrying things was encouraged to carry the paper. One was encouraged to play retrieve and another to bark on cue. Two were naturally quiet and mellow, so were chosen to be the laid back characters. The smallest pup did a scene where he was placed in a sack mainly because he was the one that fit. All of the puppies were given lots of breaks and play periods and were monitored by the trainers at all times. Particular precautions were in place because the animals were young. No other animals were allowed on the set when the puppies were working. All the puppies were given their shots and tested by a veterinarian prior to being able to join the cast and a local veterinarian was always on 24 hour call while they were on location. All the puppies were of the age where they could be taken from their mother, but production and the trainers were careful to have safe, clean areas provided for them throughout the shoot. Two adult dogs named Ajax and Solar, who particularly liked the puppies, played the part of Pilot. Both were males and are used for filming because the male Retrievers tend to have a larger body structure, lush coat and can be prettier than the females. Both were used interchangeably to play the female, Pilot. When the mother, Pilot, appears in a box to be whelping the newborn puppies it was neither Ajax nor Solar. The dog seen nursing was owned by a member of the community who allowed the production company to come to the house and film the whelping pups without having to move them. This documentary shot is very tight on just the box and the dogs which made it easier to edit into the film and create the illusion that the dogs and the whelping box were in the Lowry home. Luckily the real dog matched the canine actors well enough to make the scene believable. Later in the film there is a litter of kittens that appears near the Lowry home. These kittens were from a local rescue group and used just for one scene. We have compiled a list of some of the best movies about these lovable dogs. There is something for everyone on this list, from new releases to classics. So grab some popcorn and get comfortable on the couch — here are our favorite golden retriever movies! Famous for their loyalty, intelligence, and trainability golden retrievers are among the most popular dog breeds in the United States. Did you know that there are also several movies about these wonderful golden retriever dogs? Through the ups and downs of life, Marley remains a loyal and faithful friend to his family. This movie will make you laugh, cry, and appreciate the furry members of your own family a little bit more. Each life brings new experiences and lessons, but his ultimate goal remains the same — to find his purpose in life. His journey as Bailey, a golden, is sure to touch your heart and leave you feeling inspired. Through his observations of the humans around him, Enzo comes to understand the importance of family, friends, and living life to the fullest. When Old Drum, a golden retriever, is wrongly accused of killing another dog, his owner takes him to court to prove his innocence. Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey This heartwarming classic follows the story of three pets who are lost in the wilderness and must find their way back home. Along the way, they meet new friends and face challenges that test their courage and determination. Featuring an all-star cast, this film is a must-see for any animal lover. Homeward Bound 2: Lost in San Francisco The sequel to the beloved classic, this film follows the three pets as they get lost in the city and must find their way back home. With humor and adventure, this film is sure to please any fan of the original. Air Bud Franchise This feel-good movie is about a basketball-playing dog who helps his human friend, Josh, win the state championship game. Air Bud is a true underdog story that will have you cheering for the good guys and pooches all the way to the end. As of now, the franchise has a total of 5 movies released in all. These lovable pups get into all sorts of mischief, but they always manage to learn valuable lessons along the way. The Franchise includes: Air Buddies .Plot[ edit ] In Sydney, Australia , a puppy named Muffin is living with a human family and his own mother. He, calling himself Napoleon and pretending to be tough, wishes that he could live with the wild dogs that he can hear howling in the distance. The family has a birthday party and one of the decorations is a basket with balloons strapped to it. Out of curiosity, Napoleon hops inside it, but it, untied from its tether, begins to float away. Napoleon flies high above Sydney and heads out to the sea. A galah named Birdo drops down on the side of his basket and offers to help him get down. Birdo's idea of help is to pop the balloons suspending the basket, causing Napoleon to land unharmed on a beachhead. He thinks he can finally seek out the wild dogs and heads into a nearby forest, ignoring Birdo's suggestion to return home. At night, Napoleon starts to fear being alone. A tawny frogmouth in the forest warns him of terrible things that can happen to pets in the wild, but he ignores him as well and continues on his way, briefly getting caught in the web of a spider. He discovers a large tree which is home to a psychotic cat. She spots Napoleon and, thinking he is a mouse, chases him. He escapes when the tawny frogmouth pushes the cat into a pond. The tawny frogmouth then warns him that she will not rest until he is dead. As he runs off, she pulls herself from the pond angrily swearing revenge. The next morning, following an encounter with a flock of annoying rainbow lorikeets and then a rude koala , Napoleon once again meets with Birdo, asking him to teach him how to live in the wild, also revealing his real name is Muffin. He is then taunted for his name by both a deep-voiced green tree frog and the lorikeets from earlier, despite Birdo's attempts to stop them, and thereafter gets stranded on a floating log. Birdo agrees at last to teach Napoleon how to live in the wild, beginning by teaching him how to swim back to shore in a lake, pushing him off a floating log. Napoleon learns about hunting by practicing on a group of rabbits , but fails to catch one and ends up eating moss instead. Birdo's next lessons about friendly and dangerous animals with a wombat and some heavily injured quokkas , having suffered a brutal attack by the cat, and then snowy weather are ignored. Napoleon narrowly avoids a herd of stampeding brumbies during the latter lesson, which Birdo mistakes for "blinding snow and freezing fog", which causes him to abandon Birdo in frustration. He follows the smell of what he believes to be sweets to a sugarcane field, though Birdo, fearing how dry it is, tries to stop him from going in it but to no avail. He briefly encounters a snake warning him of danger just before a bushfire breaks out, escaping with Birdo's help. The cat returns and attempts to attack Birdo, but fails. He reunites with his lost flock but she has found them too; Napoleon saves them with a warning of her. They come to a road where they witness a frill-necked lizard hiding on a road stripe survive a passing truck, as it angrily bullies Napoleon away when he tries to see if it's okay. He and Birdo then part ways as he wants to seek the wild dogs and Birdo wants to rejoin his flock. Napoleon then helps an echidna find water and seeks out shade. While resting, he is heartbroken when he realises that the howling he has been hearing was just a perentie lizard wandering the desert and imitating various animals, and begins lamenting running away from home. A torrential rainstorm arrives as the area begins to flood, and Napoleon runs for shelter and discovers two dingo puppies named Sid and Nancy inside a damp cave, assuming they are lost like him. The water floods the cave and sweeps Nancy away. Napoleon dives in and rescues her. The pups' mother returns and Napoleon realises that he has found the wild dogs. She agrees to let him live with her for the time-being, Sid, and Nancy. While out together, she asks why he wanted to be with the wild dogs. He explains that he always wanted to feel brave by living in the wild, but confesses to being disappointed with the lifestyle. She comforts him by reminding him that it was his courage that led him out here and helped him save Sid and Nancy, which represents the true spirit of the wild dogs. Wanting to go home, Napoleon takes a trip across the landscape in a kangaroo 's pouch. He reaches the shore and discovers that his basket is inhabited by a feisty penguin who calls himself Conan, wanting to be a wild and brave creature, mirroring how Napoleon was when he first arrived. He learns however that Conan's real name is Pengi when his raucous family arrives. That night, Napoleon's plan to sail back to Sydney with the basket is interrupted by the cat's return. A fight erupts and he tries multiple times to stop her. Before she can kill him, she becomes distracted by Pengi, who taunts her. Napoleon then knocks her off the cliff and into the basket, which sails away. On a cliff side, Napoleon sees an image of a wild dog howling, symbolizing that he understands his bravery of being one inside. Birdo reappears with a sea turtle who takes Napoleon back to Sydney. He returns home to his mother, who consents to calling him Napoleon instead of Muffin. The cat, having been carried to Sydney by the ocean currents, reappears one last time. She finally realises that Napoleon is not a mouse, but a dog instead. Regardless, she still vows to get him any way.

They are both! We have mixed the two styles of Labradors over the years to get taller, heavily built Labradors with big heads. Our dogs are usually around 80 Lbs fully grown. We take great care in picking and pairing the breeding pairs to get healthy dogs with great temperaments. Do you have any puppies available? If we have any puppies available currently you can read about them in the available litters tab or in the store tab. If not please join the waitlist. So join our waitlist and you will be notified when we have available dogs. The dogs are put in the site store with colour and sex. Visit the How to Purchase page to learn more. Saturna Island? Can we come visit? Clients and potential clients are welcome to book an appointment with us to come visit. Also for each litter we will pick one Saturday where we bring the puppies to Sidney BC where you can pick up your puppy. This way you do not have to make the trip to Saturna Island if you do not want to. Do you ever have adult or senior dogs to adopt? However, once in a while we do have a adult dog to re-home. Part of our guarantee is that no matter what happens in your life we will take one of our dogs back if you can no longer keep it for any reason. In those cases we make sure to re-home our dogs to the perfect family. If you would to be added to our waitlist for adult dogs please contact us and let us know. We choose our lineages based on making sure that your new best friend is happy, healthy and ready to love you. These dogs are so lovable and healthy that many of our clients become repeat customers. We are so certain that you will love your dog that we provide a lifetime guarantee. If the dog has any health or temperament issues, bring the dog back for a refund. If a life circumstance comes up and you have to part with your dog, we will take them back and give them a happy home. About Us: About. According to the registration statistics compiled by the American Kennel Club, the Labrador Retriever is the most popular pure bred dog in the Seattle metropolitan area. These predictable, durable, steady breeds, like Labs and Goldens, are great with kids and offer the whole family more dog to love. Our industry setting Puppy Guarantee makes buying one of our pure-bred Labrador retrievers one of the wisest decisions you will ever make. Read the personal testimonials from prominent Labrador Retriever owners from around the country. Our Labs can be found across the country in forty 40 states from the great Southwest to historic New England, from frigid Alaska to the Sunshine state. Located near Laurel Hill, NC, we have shipped more than 8, world class Labrador retriever puppies and adults to locations as far away as Alaska. We can easily ship our guaranteed Labs to your location in or around Vancouver. For details, Visit our Puppy Page or call Woody or Judi for up-to-the-minute puppy information at .Labrador Retrievers Make Good Therapists In recent articles, a licensed professional counselor with thirty years of experience, explained how owning a Labrador retriever can help produce healthier, happier, more well adjusted children and seniors. Furthermore, telling a dog to sit, and then watching the dog do what he was told, provides children with tons of confidence. Having that furry pooch sit down at our feet and nuzzle close to us makes us feel important and needed. These are just simple things that occur on a daily basis. Medical professionals have done research to show that all pets, but especially dogs, have notably positive affects on senior citizens. Scientists have started to explore the complex way animals affect human emotions and physiology. The resulting studies have shown that owning and handling dogs significantly benefits health. In fact, pets may help elderly owners live longer, healthier, and more enjoyable lives. Our world class Labrador Retrievers puppies for sale! Our Latest Happy Clients! Become A Happy Client! I know that once I'm settled in to my new home, I'll come out of my shell. Transitions can be a little stressful, but all I need is a little time and I'll have so much love to give. I'd love to meet you. Here's what I need in my new home: I can be nervous around new people, and it can take me a while to get comfortable. I need a home where I can take it slow. I would do best in a home with kids over age .I would like to meet any kids I might be living with. I need to meet any other dogs I might be living with. I have experience living with small dogs and cats. I would love a yard where I can run and play, but I'm flexible! I could be a good fit for a home without a yard as long as my family is active and will take me out on adventures. I'm sensitive about how and where I'm handled. I need a family who will respect my space. I'm on a special training and enrichment plan. If you're interested in meeting, please ask a staff member or volunteer so they can tell you more about me! Primary Color: Blonde Weight: 72 Age: 2yrs 1mths 2wks. Ready for their new homes on Sept .Their mom is a sweet beautiful purebred Rottweiler. Their dad is a chocolate.These gorgeous puppies have great genetics and will grow up to be loving pets. They are being raised on our.He is a purebred Labrador retrevier puppy. He is such a good boy following me everywhere and already has quite a good recall. He loves being held with.English Labrador.She is house trained, crate trained and loves playing fetch! This lovely dog is spayed, vaccinations up to.They have all the vaccines and rabies shot. They have a puppy passport and document for.Pick your puppy now and watch him grow with weekly video updates. Mom is a pure bred English Lab and weights 70lbs she loves playing fetch and.They are friendly, playful, and affectionate. Labs are extremely intelligent, high-maintenance dogs that require lots of attention, Pups come with first and second shots dewormed vet health check microchiped puppy pack.These puppies are being raised on our farm and will be the best socialized little.Puppies exposed to the farm, lots of animals like our house cat, chickens, sheep and rabbits and of course.Please Contact. These gorgeous puppies have great genetics and will grow up to be loving pets. They are being raised on our.Parents are family dogs with prefect demeanors and are great with children and chickens : even cats Pick up is an option in.Please Contact Waitlist! Join our waitlist for future litters Ready October by completing a puppy application! Previous litters have.All our are healthy, strong, playful and affectionate. Cute or stunning doesn't even begin to describe their personalities.He is a purebred Labrador retrevier puppy. He is such a good boy following me everywhere and already has quite a good recall. He loves being held with.English Labrador.She wants to play with my old dog but the difference in size makes my old dog scared and refuses.They have all the vaccines and rabies shot. They have a puppy passport and document for.Pick your puppy now and watch him grow with weekly video updates. Mom is a pure bred English Lab and weights 70lbs she loves playing fetch and.The puppies will be pounds full grown. Mom Callie- is cream.They are friendly, playful, and affectionate. Labs are extremely intelligent, high-maintenance dogs that require lots of attention, We have high expectations for these litters! The moms comes from hunting lines has tones of natural instinct and is an excellent retriever. Bo a master.These puppies are being raised on our farm and will be the best socialized little.Puppies exposed to the farm, lots of animals like our house cat, chickens, sheep and rabbits and of course.Please Contact.

Escaping Diabetes If your dog has diabetes, another symptom of that is weight loss. But, besides weight loss, you might also notice other symptoms such as excessive thirst, urination, and urinary tract infections if your dog suffers from diabetes. Dental Issues While it might not seem possible, but many times when a dog has dental issues. Mouth Lesions As with dental issues, mouth lesions can also result in a loss of weight in a dog because eating food is just too painful for it. The most reliable way to detect these issues is by taking your dog to the vet as soon as you notice a lacking interest in food and a subsequent weight loss as a result. Hyperthyroidism is a condition that will result in a rapid metabolism that leaves your dog in danger of experiencing an extreme loss of weight. Once that is accomplished, thyroid issues are easily managed with the help of medications. PetMD also mentions that additional symptoms include shaking, a lack of appetite, increased thirst and increased frequency of urination. There are other symptoms that could lead to weight loss during pregnancy and range from anxiety lack of appetite , poor digestion, or heart disease. If you notice a dull coat, poor muscle function, diarrhea, dry skin, vomiting, and depression or lethargy, it is vital to contact your vet immediately. And this is sometimes just the way things are, but other times it could be because of an issue with their health. And once again, your best bet is to take your dog to the vet and get it checked for any serious issues. Solutions When you notice your Labradoodle is underweight then your best decision is to consult a vet to ensure that nothing serious is wrong with them. And when your vet has given them the all-clear, take a look at some of these great ways that you can help your Labradoodle gain weight. And this product is based on real meat unlike a lot of other dry food that is plant-based. Giving them two big meals and one small meal can have the benefit of being similar to the routine they already have now. Give More Treats Throughout the Day Another good idea could be to give your Labradoodle a lot more treats throughout the day. If you give your Labradoodle too many treats they could end up being too stuffed to eat any of their ordinary meals. Bananas , peanut butter , chicken and eggs are all great choices. Conclusion More often than not, having a Labradoodle that is getting skinny, is mostly down to the quality and amount of the food they get, and not some life-threatening disease. As you can see there are several things you can do to help your Labradoodle gain some weight, as there are quite a few things that could be the cause of their weight loss. Try feeding them more meals every day or allowing them to free feed. Give them more treats. Journal their meals and regular weighing them. 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. Not only is she familiar with breed standards, options, personality and health traits, but she provides excellent guidance on issues such as basic obedience training, grooming, nutrition and helping pups make the adjustment to a new home. We couldn't be more thrilled with the health, intellect, adaptability and affection of our little girl, Maisy. She is a far more amazing canine companion than we ever could have hoped for. She takes great care in each one of her puppies and have continued to help guide and support us as we raise our puppy Gretel. We feel so lucky to have been able to purchase our puppy from Kristin. The exposure and socialization Gretel had before she even came home was amazing. The fact that the puppies are born and live their first two months in Kristin's kitchen make them a wonderful family pet. Gretel loves to be around people and has the most charming character. We absolutely love our puppy and cannot begin to thank Kristin and her family for all that they have done for us. We cannot recommend them more highly! I was not looking for a Labradoodle at all, but there was something so special about him. From the beginning, Kristin was very helpful. As soon as I contacted her, she was sharing website information about the breed and educating me about these special companions. My main goal was to find a healthy puppy, that liked other dogs and cats, was easy to train, and was big enough to play with my 13 year old son, yet not as big as a lab. Kotah fit the criteria. Her depth of knowledge about the breed, thoroughness in terms of ensuring healthy puppies and credibility she demonstrated in early meetings by phone and in person led me to go with Kristin. We trusted her to pick out the right puppy for our family and boy, are we glad we did. I'm convinced we got the puppy that was right for our family, in terms of temperament and one that fit in with our lifestyle. These are some of things that I really liked from our own experience of buying a puppy from Kristin: No sales pressure: Kristin genuinely wants to match you up with the right puppy. I had the deposit check ready from the first in-person meeting and she simply would not take it until she had completed her health guarantee paperwork. She was also waiting for the puppies to mature a bit to assess them. Many breeders want the deposit check for a future litter before they will even return your phone calls. Any question I have about Emmy on things she's doing, behaviors, habits, training, grooming tips, I go to Kristin and I'm assured of getting a thorough instructions and suggestion things to try or why she does these things. Access to an Expert: Not only is she knowledgeable but Kristin wants to share her knowledge and help you as the new owner. You can ask her anything and she calls you right back with helpful suggestions. In fact, I spent an hour and a half in Kristin's garage yesterday learning to groom Emmy myself using the clipper after a disastrous visit to the professional groomer. She is that accessible. She showed me how to groom Emmy, get the mats out, products that might work for her. Sample products I should try. No, she's not trying to sell me any of this stuff. She just wants me to try stuff that might work for my dog. Complete Trust: Lastly, having talked to many many breeders over 6 months that I was researching the breed of the dog that I wanted to get for our family, I ran across a lot of breeders. With some of them, you get the feeling that this is their livelihood and financial transaction trumps in the end. They say the right things but it seems a bit hallow. From the time we had our first phone conversation, subsequent in-person meetings, visits to see the puppies, I had complete trust in Kristin. In fact, one of the families that had a deposit with one of the puppies then changed their mind, Kristin had no problem giving them their deposit back. She did not want the puppy to go to a family that may not have been the best "fit" for that puppy, she made an exception. I don't know other breeders that would do that. Since technically, if you change your mind, the breeder has every right to keep the deposit. Hello, that's why they call it "deposit. If we were to add another Australian Labradoodle to our family, I would not hesitate to work with Kristin again. I have also recommended her to all my friends and family. You will not be disappointed. As we approached a first Labradoodle, Kristin asked us deep questions about our family and explained an approach she uses to fit every puppy, all who have been evaluated carefully for temperament, with a family whose personality and preferences and population little kids? No kids? At work all day? We spent a good hour-plus in conversation so she could understand a lot about our household, and worked on making a match for our family as opposed to selling our household a dog. We are thrilled three years in with a dog who fits like a glove with us. Thank you! We have 2 wonderful Australian Labradoodles from Kristin, and for cuteness, their pictures are attached. But there is something more important to say about Kristin and Golden Gate Labradoodles. Getting a puppy is bringing a new incredible creature into your lives. You nurture it, love it, and it returns that love in so many ways. We love, we laugh, we become the most important elements of their lives. Kristin is always there. She has a closed Facebook group for all of her owners. Getting a GGL puppy gives you access to this wonderful family. Advice, questions answered, relevant articles, all are part of her support. I contacted you stating that I was looking for an independent pup with lots of energy, and that's exactly what I got! I had no idea what I was getting into because Poppy is my first dog. You correctly identified that I wasn't exactly ready for a puppy and helped me place her with a trainer, but I am so happy that we did things the way that we did. Poppy has brought so much joy and levity to my life. She is a smart and funny girl who is an endless source of entertainment. She is also my best friend. I had no idea how amazing of a companion she would be. She is always by side when we are home together. I could not imagine life without her! She makes life more enjoyable as it's impossible to not be in the moment with such an active pup. We hike, go the the beach she's an excellent swimmer. I firmly believe that no other human could provide this degree of love and support as a companion don't tell my friends and family! Again, thank you so much for helping me find a dog that is the right fit for me. I would never have found her without you listening to exactly what I was looking for! If I had to do it all over again, I would do it exactly the same way! My experience began to when I was calling breeders in the Bay Area. Not only did Kristin return my call she spent over an hour educating me about the breed as well as asking lots of questions about our home life in order that she might match the perfect temperament for our lifestyle. I was so impressed with her breadth of knowledge and passion as well as commitment that I stopped looking for breeders. I knew I had found an amazing breeder with high ethics and values I love this breed. Always had Labradors in the past. I find these dogs we have two super smart and so easy to train. They are mellow from birth. Clearly well-socialized puppies. They want to be with you and are content just being by your side. Excellent with babies and small children. I would trust them completely with an infant. They make eye contact like humans! As a guardian family we have had two litters. Each time Kristin was accessible 24 hours a day. She provided support and tons of information. She tends to lean toward holistic natural methods whenever appropriate. From best diets to excellent medical needs. Kristin covers all expenses up front related to breeding. I felt she had my back through the entire breeding process. I love this woman!!! Kristin knows her dogs and this breed so well and she is caring, knowledgeable, trustworthy, and highly intuitive about finding the best fit with your family. It has been so much fun to be a part of this community with our floppy, funny, smart puppies, grand-puppies, and pack mates. I knew that Topper was the one from the moment I met him. We love him to pieces and we are so grateful to Kristin for connecting us. I found Kristin in researching Australian Labradoodles. Winnie is everything Kristin said she would be- calm, loyal, observant and super well behaved. Thank you Kristin for adding so much joy to our lives! I do not know of any other breeder who is more responsible than Kristin. She is diligent in making sure that each of her dogs comes from a reputable family line, investigating gene pools, health records, and temperament. She is meticulous in making sure that each pup is matched as perfectly as possible with their new family to match energy levels, temperament, etc. The Australian Labradoodle is a special dog breed that comes with a diverse gene pool that produces an amazing dog. Kristin is helping to elevate this breed to the highest standard possible. She only works with responsible breeders. To own a Golden Gate Labradoodle is a privilege! Kristin was marvelous at providing reassurance for my fears and was responsive to all of our queries and request for information. It was obvious she cares deeply about all her dogs, her own and the puppies she places. I was a little skeptical that this claim was true for every litter but after being part of the Facebook group I can see that this is truly her philosophy. I sincerely believe that Kristin made the best possible match for our family. Our pup has always been mellow, super friendly, and easily trainable. We always get positive comment when out walking him and at the dog park. And whilst I was struggling to cope with the behaviors of a new puppy, all my friends were telling me how lucky I was, because he was so well behaved. The most wonderful thing about having a Golden Gate Labradoodle is the supportive community in the private Facebook group. It is so reassuring to be able to ask advice, ask for tips when you are a new owner. We love being part of the Golden Gate Labradoodle family, best decision we ever made. After we submitted our application, she called us and at the end of the conversation not only were we convinced that we wanted one of her dogs we felt that we would be a part of an awesome doodle family. When we went to the garden play date to meet the puppies, it was evident that Kristin took the time to ensure to that the puppies were matched with the right families. This is evidenced by our handsome boy Cooper. His personality blends perfectly with ours and he completes our family. Cooper is a sweet boy with a wonderful temperament. When people ask where we got him, we never hesitate to recommend Kristin Hotti and Golden Gate Labradoodles. Kristin was referred to us by another breeder. Her knowledge about puppies, their personalities and lineage is impeccable. We began our puppy search certain that we wanted a chocolate colored female. Much to our delight, we fell in love with our male, parchment puppy because of his gentle, loving personality. Australian Labradoodles are such a lovely combination of sweet cuddliness and playfulness! The GGLD family has been a fantastic support network for grooming, nutrition, playdates etc. We love joining Kristin for puppy washing parties and hope to add another dog to our family soon. We did quite a bit of research to look for the right dog for our family, and we were so amazed when we learned about the beautiful ALD breed. Kristin is a professional and knowledgeable breeder who took the time with us to make sure we had enough guidance obedience, nutrition, grooming, etc to begin our time with our sweet pup, Winston. After 10 months, we can say that he has been an absolute blessing. He is loving, smart, and very social. Thanks to Kristin, we found the perfect companion who especially enjoys our frequent road trips to the beach! She's 11 months old now and the sweetest dog. Friendly with every living thing. You definitely know your job. I've given your name our many times and will continue to do so. Thanks again. To us, this search was more about finding a pet who would be a new member to our family, rather than just getting a dog. We wanted to work with a breeder who was truly focused on what was best for the dog, not just focused on making lots of money. She is a wealth of knowledge and an incredible resource for all things dog related. Any questions that we have had, she has answered promptly and caringly. The owner had bought one dog from Kristin, then two years later bought another from Kristin. That alone spoke volumes about the quality of Golden Gate Labradoodles. Playful, yet well mannered, curious, intelligent, approachable and social. We knew this was a breeder we needed to meet and with whom to hopefully find our new family member. When I walked in our front door with our surprise new puppy, Mabel, almost two years ago, our lives were forever changed. She hikes, swims, travels and adventures with us and loves every person and dog she meets. If you are already an owner or are on the waitlist, you know of our nearly strong private Facebook group of largely Northern California folks who are the "hive-mind" of this program. When I see people connecting about litter playdates or birthday parties; cooperative boarding arrangements; recommendations for local groomers, vets, trainers; and even providing informational and emotional support in occasional crisis events, I am overwhelmed with humble gratitude that I could play a part in bringing such a meaningful community together. Of course the dogs are amazing! But, the Golden Gate Labradoodles Community is truly the best thing about our program! Are you worried that you have a skinny Labradoodle? We take a look at the normal lower limits of Labradoodle weight, and what to do if your Labradoodle is looking too lean. What is a normal Labradoodle size? Or are they much smaller than their siblings from the same litter? First generation Labradoodles Most Labradoodles are a first generation f1 cross between one Labrador Retriever parent and one Standard Poodle parent. Female Labrador Retrievers weigh 55 — 70 pounds, and males weigh 65 — 80 pounds. Standard Poodles are slightly smaller — females weigh 40 to 50 pounds, and males weigh 60 to 70 pounds. When it comes to size, first generation Labradoodles can weigh as much as their heaviest parent, as little as their lightest parent, or anything in between. So female f1 Labs may weigh 40 pounds or 70 pounds, and males may weigh 60 pounds or 80 pounds. Even within a litter, one girl could be close to the bottom of the Labradoodle weight range, while here sister are all near the top. And likewise, one boy could be much smaller than his brothers. The bottom of the normal weight range for f1 Labradoodles is even lower if a Miniature Poodle is used as the sire dad. Miniature Poodles weigh just 10 to 15 pounds, so the potential weight range of grown up Mini Labradoodles is very wide, and the potential for very small individuals is much greater. Differences in body shape Another way healthy Labradoodles can look very different is their build, or silhouette. Labradors are relatively stocky dogs. Their body is usually slightly longer than it is tall — like a wide rectangle — and it should be powerfully muscled. On the other hand, Poodles ought to be equal — or square — in height and length. Their breed standard describes them as elegant and smoothly muscled. So stood next to one another, Poodles tend to look taller and leaner than Labradors of the same weight. In particular, their legs look much longer and slimmer. So healthy Labradoodle can have a more slender outline than you were expecting, if they greatly take after their Poodle parent in build. What about Australian Labradoodles? Australian Labradoodles are an attempt to standardize the Labradoodle into a pure breed in their own right. Rather than every dog being a first generation cross, Aussie Labradoodles come from breeding lines of other Australian Labradoodles. Australian Labradoodles come in three sizes: Standards, which weigh 45 to 65 pounds. Mediums, which weigh 30 to 45 pounds. And Miniatures, which weigh 15 to 30 pounds. So a healthy Labradoodle, depending on their parentage and the genes they were dealt, could weigh as little as 15 pounds, or as much as 80 pounds! Which leads us to the importance of body condition. Skinny Labradoodle Body Condition Body condition scores are a valuable way of assessing whether a Labradoodle is a healthy weight, or too skinny. Dogs at an ideal weight have a visible waist when viewed from above, and the underside of their tummy slopes upwards from their rib cage towards their tail. Their ribs should be easy to feel, with only a thin layer of fat covering them — similar to if you make a fist with one hand, and feel the place between your second and third knuckles wear rings usually sit with your other hand. An underweight Labradoodle has no fat covering their ribs, and some of their bones might even be visible through their skin. In particular their ribs, vertebrae, and hip bones. Underweight Labradoodles can also develop an extremely pronounced waist, and even start to lose muscle mass. During this time, it may seem like your Labradoodle just cannot put on weight as quickly as they are growing! And by the time they are two, their weight and overall look is likely to have been steady for several months. This is partly due to loss of muscle mass as they get older. They might also be eating less — because they have lower energy demands, or because old-age problems like tooth decay make it harder to eat. Is My Labradoodle Too Skinny? If they are underweight, they will help you work out the reason why. Very active or working dogs might simply need more calories. But, sometimes being underweight is a symptom of an underlying health problem. Some examples are: Problems with the digestive system Internal parasites. For example, my first gen labradoodle was unfortunate to get long skinny legs and a massive body, which rendered him unable to even stand for long periods despite keeping him as healthy as possible; yet other labradoodles are built much better from what I've seen of them. Do you agree this to be the case? Labradoodles are funny. Please note the disclaimer that these posts are about the breed from a veterinary viewpoint as seen in clinical practice and is not intended as a personal insult against your favorite breed. This is general advice for what is common, often with a scientific consensus but sometimes based on personal experiences, and is not a guarantee of what an individual animal is going to encounter in their life. That said, I have quite a lot of experience with Australian Labradoodles from one very large puppy farm, both farm dogs and adopted pets. They vary in coat type and color, with fleece coats and trendier colors attracting higher prices. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia are present in both parent breeds, and all breeding labradoodles should be screened. Ectopic Cilia became increasingly common in the puppies I saw. This condition causes extra eyelashes to grow on the inside of the eyelid, rubbing against the eyeball. This requires delicate surgery to remove the aberrant hair follicle, otherwise the dog is left with an eyelash permanently rubbing against its eye, causing ulcers and pain. Floppy ears plus non-shedding coat equals a strong predisposition for ear infections, especially yeast infections. The breed, especially the individuals I saw, had some interesting genetic pedigrees, and this most certainly reduced their genetic diversity. As expected, this is gradually increasing auto-immune conditions. Hypothyroidism is usually caused by auto-immune process attacking the thyroid gland, and this is more common that average in multi-generation labradoodles. Now, permit me a rant about genetics. Refusing to remove dogs that throw problem puppies from the gene pool and simply giving them a new partner will allow those problem genes to propagate in your population. We have decided we want to add another Whispering Winds puppy to the Wetzel family! I am ready to put down a payment, but just wondered if I need to fill out the application again? This is with her best friend next door neighbor, Kaia, who just moved away. Thanks so much! The big boy is Diesel, our 10 month old black German Shepard. She is such a sweet loving dog! We adore her!! She is becoming quite the boating dog! She has her own little bed in the fly bridge for when we are cruising and she loves to go kayaking, hopping right in to go for a ride! Thank you again so much for such a wonderful puppy!!! Gidget and I and our Mom are doing ok. Gidget and I share a recliner when we watch tv. I wanted to let you know that we continue to adore Penny. She will be eight years old this week. She now has a 6 year old brother and 3 year old sister both human. We've moved to Bainbridge Island, and she loves tagging along with us on all our outings to the beaches and trails. Hope you are doing well! She is wonderful and we are madly in love with her. It has been an easy adjustment welcoming her into our family. I think that made all the difference. She is very healthy and the vet had very good things to say about how well Whispering Winds had cared for her.We had some crying the first two nights but then she settled in really well and just goes right in at bedtime. We put it in the living room during the day and she goes in and out of it all day playing, napping. She really loves it. She is so cute, she walks alongside it when I move it from room to room. We live across the street from a park so we gets lots of people walking by wanting to stop and chat about her. She loves all her toys, but the wiffel ball is her favorite right now! She has met other dogs in the park and also friends. We want to be careful but also still socialize her. They had so much fun playing! We hope you are well and enjoying this next litter. Take care, Hi Gail. We are so enjoying our Ollie. He is so fun and loves Annie He has been with us for just over a year. I have attached pictures. Christine HI Gail: I wanted to forward you a couple of pictures of our beautiful, sweet, and occasionally ornery Lucy, who turned one yesterday. Jim, Anne and Lucy. Hi Gail. I hope you and yours are doing well and enjoying the summer. Ozzy formerly Ricky Bobby is now 8 years old and as spry as ever. We have a younger dog, 4 year old Troy, who chases him around and Ozzy, although he might never admit it, loves having him around. Checking in - we are having a fantastic summer with kona. She has met new furry family members, and though not a big fan of going swimming, loves getting on the paddle board and going for a ride. She discovered that she loved going from one paddle board to another so on our camping trip , the kids put 3 paddle boards together and kona happily walked back and forth between them. It was a blast. Thank you again, she is the best girl ever! Gail Completely delayed update but Poppy is doing great. Here is her latest picture post haircut. Thanks Monica Hope all is well. We Went and had a beach weekend! The pups and grandkids had a blast. She wanted you to see how beautiful she is with short hair! I love doing all the different toys they have out there for me to do. They hug on me and I just lean on them and give them kisses on their hands. I like working and making people happy, but most of all I love playing and doing zoomies. I just give them a big smile and lots of kisses. My moms and I hope you are doing well and having a super good summer. He had his first sandy beach experience today. We love having him adventure with us. Hope all is well with you! Katie Hi Gail, I hope this finds you well! Luka is officially home and loving his Texan life. He has learned to go up and down the stairs and bark. Loves his new mom my mom, Teresa and his sisters Mila and Frida. Here are a few pictures and videos- Cassandra Our beautiful Chloe turns 17 years old today! July 9, Hi Gail.Hope this finds you and Wayne happy and in good health! We're doing good and just celebrated Bill's 89th birthday!!! Darbi doesn't pose and wouldn't stay still for the photos, so it is just of Bill and Cubby! Hope you are easing into your retirement and enjoying a much more relaxed life!!!! Love you, Bill, Susanne, Darbigail and Cubby!!!! The dogs are so shaggy.Sorry I can't trim their muzzles so you can see their eyes.I worry about poking their eyes!!!! Moon turned 10 last May. She is the most special to me of all the dogs we have had. If I could clone her I probably would. I missed out on her puppy stage…. Great temperament.

Some people believe that spaying and neutering helps to avoid behavioral problems. The impact has been dramatic, with an estimated 85 percent of dogs in the U. Breeders have an important role in helping puppy buyers determine at what age to neuter or spay their dog. They may require puppy buyers to neuter or spay their dog to avoid indiscriminate breeding, thus their recommendation is key in helping owners decide when to spay or neuter their German Shepherd Dog. The study reported a significant increase in cranial cruciate ligament CCL tears, or ruptures, in male and female German Shepherd Dogs neutered before 1 year of age, and it also noted a significantly higher incidence of urinary incontinence in female German Shepherd Dogs spayed before 1 year of age. The research was based on the veterinary records of 1, intact and neutered German Shepherd Dogs in the medical database at the University of California-Davis Veterinary Medical Teaching Hospital. The report examined joint disorders and cancers previously associated with neutering that occurred in dogs from Jan. The analysis involved a comparison of disease incidence in intact dogs with those neutered before 6 months of age, between 6 and 11 months of age, between 12 and 23 months of age, and from 24 months through 8 years of age. Mammary cancer in females was followed through 11 years of age. Lead investigator Benjamin L. One size does not fit all when it comes to deciding whether to neuter. Hart, a clinical animal behaviorist, researches the behavioral effects of neutering or spaying in animals. An ongoing study of the health effects associated with spay and neuter surgery will provide analyses of a total of 31 breeds for which data has been compiled. When the work is completed later this year, the information will be available on an open-access website as a resource for breeders, owners, veterinarians, and researchers. We knew we needed the research to be breed-specific rather than generalizing across breeds. Spaying female Goldens through 8 years of age increased the rate of at least one cancer by three to four times that of intact females. A German Shepherd Dog being campaigned at dog shows is not eligible for neutering or spaying because conformation involves judging dogs for their breeding potential. Dogs that compete in herding trials, obedience or rally, agility, tracking, and Schutzhund may be neutered or spayed, as these performance events are exempt from the breeding purpose that governs dog shows. However, owners may wish to avoid increasing the risk of a joint disorder such as hip dysplasia or CCL, as this could interfere with performance. People who buy German Shepherd Dogs for companions may want to neuter or spay their dog to help prevent unwanted litters, to avoid bitches coming into season, and to lessen aggression and roaming tendencies in males, though Dr. Hart says evidence shows that neutering males after 1 year is as effective in controlling aggression as neutering before 6 months of age. Neutering or spaying German Shepherd Dogs training for police or military work is optional. However, it is important that these dogs be healthy and fit to do their jobs, and neutering or spaying before 6 months of age could increase the risk of a debilitating joint disorder such as hip dysplasia or CCL. Among all German Shepherd Dogs studied, hip dysplasia, a frequent disease in the breed, is doubled in risk to 7 to 8 percent by early spaying or neutering. However, CCL occurs in less than 1 percent of intact dogs but is increased in risk to 8 to 12 percent with early spay-neuter surgeries, resulting in this disease being the main joint disorder impacted by early neutering in German Shepherd Dogs. A critical stabilizer of the stifle knee joint, the CCL functions as a rope as it stabilizes the femur thighbone to the tibia shinbone , preventing the stifle bone from shifting during activity. In intact male German Shepherd Dogs, 6. The main joint disorder reported was hip dysplasia, which results from a loose connection between the pelvis socket, or acetabulum, and the thighbone ball, or femur head, which creates laxity in the hip joint. Degenerative joint disease, or osteoarthritis, commonly accompany this disease, causing pain and disability. Male German Shepherd Dogs neutered before 6 months of age had an incidence rate of .In dogs neutered from 6 to 11 months of age, the incidence was .Although CCL rupture occurred in less than 1 percent of intact males, in dogs neutered before 6 months of age and from 6 to 11 months of age, the rate increased significantly to .Similarly, intact female German Shepherd Dogs showed an incidence rate of 5. In contrast, those spayed before 6 months of age had an incidence rate of .In those spayed between 6 to 11 months of age, the rate was almost 17 percent — three times higher than in intact females. CCL, which was diagnosed in less than 1 percent of intact females, occurred in 4. Because joint disorders can be related to body weight, the researchers also looked at whether the increased weight of neutered dogs could be responsible for CCL rupture, but they did not find a connection. Using a body condition score BCS based on a scale of 1 to 9, with 5 being ideal, they compared the body condition of neutered males with CCL ruptures to neutered males without CCL ruptures and found that the median BCS for both was 5. Hart explains. This condition is caused by growth disturbances in the elbow joint due to a misalignment of growth between the two bones in the foreleg between the radius elbow and ulna wrist. Hart says. It is mostly diagnosed in neutered large-breed dogs. As expected, the condition was not reported in intact female German Shepherd Dogs, yet 7 percent of females spayed before 1 year of age were incontinent in their elderly years. Fortunately, of the cancers followed in German Shepherd Dogs through age 8, there were few reports regardless whether a dog was intact or neutered. The research team cautioned that cancer rates could increase at later ages, though they did not study this. Mammary cancer was tracked through 11 years of age because this type of cancer characteristically occurs later in life. About 4 to 5 percent of intact females and those spayed from 2 through 8 years were diagnosed with mammary cancer in contrast to no cases diagnosed in females spayed before 6 months of age. Spaying has been attributed to helping to reduce the risk of mammary cancer, though a published study found neutering provided no apparent protection against mammary cancer. Hart notes that the protective factor could be breed specific. Regardless, in German Shepherd Dogs, the incidence of mammary cancer is fairly low. A Proactive Preventive Approach Given the results of this study showing the increased incidence of CCL rupture and urinary incontinence in German Shepherd Dogs that had early spay-neuter surgeries, breeders should consider the pros and cons before deciding the best age to recommend that puppy buyers spay or neuter their dogs. The purpose of a dog also should be considered in determining what is best for a companion dog, a working police dog, or a show or sporting competitor could be different. A German Shepherd Dog that is neutered or spayed before 1 year of age and has a CCL rupture could be out of commission for months for surgery and rehabilitation. Urinary incontinence is an inconvenient disorder for owners to deal with because it requires frequent cleaning of urine from floors and bedding. It also is attributed to dogs being relinquished to shelters. The most important finding in German Shepherd Dogs is that there is no advantage of neutering or spaying before 12 months of age. Joint disorders, a concern in German shepherd dogs, might be less likely to occur if spaying or neutering procedures are delayed until the dog is at least one year old, this study suggests. But as most handlers, breeders and veterinarians are aware, joint disorders are a big concern in these animals. A new study in the journal Veterinary Medicine and Science finds that neutering or spaying these dogs before 1 year of age triples the risk of one or more joint disorders — particularly for cranial cruciate ligament, or CCL, tears. In Europe, however, neutering is generally avoided by owners and trainers and not promoted by animal health authorities, Hart said. During the past decade, some studies have indicated that spaying or neutering can have several adverse health effects for certain dog breeds. For example, a study published in PLoS ONE and also led by Hart, examined the health records of over 1, golden retrievers and found a surprising fourfold increase in one or more joint disorders associated with spay or neuter before 1 year of age. In the same paper, joint disorders in Labrador retrievers were found to be increased by just twofold in dogs spayed or neutered in the first year. For this current study, researchers examined veterinary hospital records over a .The diseases were followed through 8 years of age, with the exception of mammary cancer in females, which was followed through 11 years. The dogs were classified as intact not neutered , neutered before 6 months, neutered between 6 to 11 months, or neutered between 12 to 23 months and 2 to 8 years. Joint disorders and cancers are of particular interest because neutering removes male and female sex hormones that play key roles in important body processes such as closure of bone growth plates. Seven percent of intact males were diagnosed with one or more joint disorders, compared to 21 percent of males neutered prior to a year of age. In intact females, 5 percent were diagnosed with one or more joint disorders, while in females neutered prior to 1 year of age this measure was significantly increased to 16 percent. Mammary cancer was diagnosed in 4 percent of intact females compared with less than 1 percent in females neutered before 1 year of age. The occurrence of the other cancers followed through 8 years of age was not higher in the neutered than in the intact dogs. Urinary incontinence, not diagnosed in intact females, was diagnosed in 7 percent of females neutered before 1 year of age. New pet owners have long been urged to spay and neuter their puppies. Researchers from the School of Veterinary Medicine at the University of California in Davis recently studied the effects of neutering in German Shepherds, and their findings may help shape new evidence-based guidelines on the best time to neuter a puppy. The American Veterinary Medical Association supports pediatric spaying and neutering of dogs and cats, a time period which is typically after the animal is eight weeks old but before they reach six months of age. In their paper published in the journal Veterinary Medicine and Science, the University of California-Davis researchers outline their study on the veterinary hospital records of German Shepherd dogs. Advertisement Citing previous studies, including their own, the researchers note that neutering dogs within the first year of life is associated with a higher incidence of debilitating joint disorders such as hip dysplasia HD , cranial cruciate ligament tear or rupture CCL and elbow dysplasia ED. Looking at multiple breeds, neutered dogs are two to three times more likely than intact dogs to develop CCL. Looking at cancers such as osteosarcoma, mast cell tumors, hemangiosarcoma and lymphoma, the authors note previous studies of the Veterinary Medical Database that show that male and female neutered dogs are more likely than intact dogs to die of cancer. They also cite their own studies involving the Golden Retriever, where they found that neutering at all neuter periods through 8 years of age increased the rate of at least one of the cancers by three to four times. For this study, the researchers compiled data from 1, German Shepherds. Of the males, were neutered and were intact, and of the females, were neutered and intact. They compared the occurrence of joint disorders in intact dogs and in those neutered before six months of age , from six to 11 months, at one year, and at two to eight years. For some of their analyses, they grouped all dogs neutered before 12 months and referred to them as early neutered. In their findings, the researchers noted that 6. That fell to .Hip dysplasia was the most commonly experienced joint disorder. For intact females, joint disorders occurred in 5. The authors hypothesize that neutering stems the natural gonadal hormone secretions that regulate the growth of long-bone plates, so early gonadectomy may allow the bones to grow longer than normal and thus increase the risk of joint conditions. The rates of cancers in intact versus neutered dogs showed a much less significant change. For German Shepherds, it is the timing of the neuter that is important. For this breed just waiting until the dog is well over a year of age, such as 16 to 18 months, should be sufficient to avoid increased risks of joint disorders. Related Videos. Deciding on spaying or neutering your German Shepherd is a very important part of responsible pet ownership. What is neutering? Neutering a German Shepherd involves a surgical procedure to remove its testicles, making it unable to reproduce. The scrotum will be kept intact. Health Benefits of Neutering: According to the Animal Cancer Foundation, around 6 million companion dogs are diagnosed with cancer each year in the United States alone. Apart from preventing testicular tumors and cancer, neutering your German Shepherd would also prevent prostate problems as he ages. Behavioral Benefits of Neutering For many German Shepherd owners, the decision to neuter is based mainly on behavioral changes. Unaltered adult males will regularly have the urge to mate. In fact, most male dogs will have an urge so strong that they do whatever they can to access a female in heat, the scent of which they can track from considerable distances. When they can track the scent of a female in heat, they could go to great lengths in order to escape from home. Unneutered male dogs are also more likely to adopt unwanted behavior like urine marking, mounting, and humping. These are all linked to hormonal changes, especially as they reach sexual maturity. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider before making the big decision. Lifestyle Benefits There are also lifestyle benefits to consider when deciding to neuter your German Shepherd. You need to consider whether you will need to board your dog or have them go some place where they require neutering over their lifetime. Neutering Disadvantages Reproduction The most obvious disadvantage of neutering your German Shepherd is that he will no longer be able to father a litter once the procedure is done. German Shepherd breeding is best left to the professionals. Besides, there are enough dogs in shelters that need permanent homes. Twenty-five percent of them are purebred, many of who are German Shepherds. Aggression Conventional beliefs suggest that neutering keeps German Shepherds from developing aggressive behaviors. For many decades, this popular belief has been uncontested and anecdotally supported. They were also observed to be more fearful and sensitive to handling. At the end of the day, it all comes down to genes, environment, and upbringing. Bone Development A study by researchers at the Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center suggests that neutered male dogs are more likely to suffer from injury of the ACL, a ligament that connects the femur and the tibia. Male dogs that are neutered before maturity are said to have longer bones. While their tall appearance is appreciated, this is believed to be the reason for their predisposition for not only ACL injuries but also elbow and hip dysplasia. Nevertheless, whether neutered or not, German Shepherds are predisposed to hip dysplasia due to their size. A good diet and proper exercise throughout their lifetime should provide ample protection from such injuries. When to Neuter a German Shepherd Male German Shepherd males can be neutered as early as eight weeks with the common practice being around 6 months old. For most, the decision to neuter at around 6 months is because this is typically the time they reach sexual maturity. However, a study by University of California-Davis researchers showed that only 8. The researchers suggest that the best time to neuter a male German Shepherd is around months, or at least 12 months old.