dashing doodles goldendoodles puppies

Stick to softer surfaces, like grass and dirt paths, while your pup is young and their bones are not fully fused. Most GSD owners simply want to take train their puppy to walk on a leash in the neighborhood and park without getting pulled down the street. There are three basic ways to communicate how you want your German Shepherd puppy to walk on a leash with you: the stopping method, the turning method, and the luring method. The Stopping Method Open the door, but only open the door if your dog is sitting. This step could take some time and practice. Once you both are out the door, have your dog sit again. You need to lock the door and your dog needs to sit for this. During your walk, have your dog sit for you at various times. When he does offer a tasty, high value, quick-to-eat treat. Now immediately start walking again and give the release cue. Stand still and wait until he sits. This could take a while. This is important, especially because one day your little pup will be large enough to injure you if they pull you along on the walk wildly! This will take lots of time and patience. But setting a strong and obedient walk foundation allows you to enjoy your walks more and maintain control over your large breed dog as they mature and grow stronger. The Turning Method Use the same steps as above to get outside your house and begin your walk, except instead of stopping and waiting on your dog, turn in the opposite direction and begin walking the other way. Quietly turn around and guide them along when they get a few steps ahead of you. You may also tire of turning. But stick with it. Either of these techniques takes plenty of patience and a strong mental character. But your dog loves to learn. Their mind is like a sponge at this young age, but they also lack obedience skills and an attention span. Use treats and toys to get your dog to follow you. The Treat Luring Method: Hold the treat at their eye level in front of them so they can see and smell the treat. Take one or two steps forward, having them follow the treat with their nose and eyes. They will probably keep following the treat. She loves them! Take a couple of steps forward while squeaking the toy. As they follow, keep stepping forward and squeaking the toy. After a few successful steps forward, let them play with the toy as their reward. Keep up this game to motivate them to follow you. Eventually, your dog gains confidence in their new surroundings and with your help and will walk on their own. Never allow your dog to run loose near traffic. Never unleash your dog in a new area. Never allow your dog to eat objects found on the ground. They could be poisonous! Never think a person running or someone on a bicycle sees your little pup. Puppies are quick moving and can dart in front of a moving person causing them to trip and fall. This can also injure your dog as they may fall on top of them or kick or step on them. Pup is distracted Remember that being outside with your dog is equivalent to you going to Disney Land! Give them a chance to develop their attention skills, or use the high value treats to make them pay attention to you. If you are limited in the places you can go, choose different routes so your dog gets to experience new smells and sights. The dog looks stressed or afraid Find quieter areas to walk in or use the lure and reward method to help them overcome their walking fears. Carry them home and end your walk. Next time, go a shorter distance and take less time. Use positive training and rewards to communicate. The best walking setup for a puppy is a no-pull harness that connects at two different points in the front and back. No-pull harnesses are great for introducing your puppy to structured walks while keeping them safe and happy. Need More Manners Training? Your GSD needs to learn more than just walking nicely. He also needs to learn all the basics of obedience. Use this free training guide to get started today! This activity is usually one of the longest and hardest to teach since you are competing with the sights and smells of the great outdoors! Stay patient, positive, and stick to your training. Your doggie will love you for it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. You can use a harness if your dog is already familiar with one but keep in mind; some dogs will pull more while wearing one. But the reward for all your hard work will be a dog that you can take anywhere, in any situation, without your arm being yanked off. Just stop walking One of the easiest ways to teach your dog not to tug on their leash is to stop walking when the dog pulls. If you allow your dog to pull you, the dog learns that when they pull, they get to go where they want. If you plant your feet and refuse to budge, your dog will soon learn that pulling gets them nowhere, literally. Start training expecting to go nowhere on your first walks and remember that this is simply foundational training. The best walks are ahead. Use training treats Using treats is a great lure for teaching your dog to walk on a loose leash. Simply fill your pocket with treats before you snap on the leash. Tell your dog to heel, and then take another step or two. Your dog should be following at your side and looking at you in anticipation of getting that treat. If your dog steps with you, give lots of praise, and the treat. Keep practicing taking steps using the treat and praise as the lure until your dog grasps what a good doggo they are and how much fun it is to walk on a loose leash. When they do, start slowly backing off on the treats over time, until they are no longer needed. Never stop the praise. A clicker can help The clicker is a great tool to mark desired behavior. It makes teaching dogs to do almost anything much easier. If your dog is already familiar with a clicker, the training will go much faster but most dogs pick it up very fast. This method is also a great to use in transition from training with treats to eliminating the need for treats. You can also easily incorporate additional commands such as sit and down, when you get to this stage of the loose leash walk. Walk inside your house Teaching your dog to walk by your side while inside your house is a great strategy. Walking inside also has the added bonus of few distractions. All you need to do to walk your dog inside is snap on their leash and give the heel command and use your treats. Practice walking around the house until your dog no longer pulls on the leash. Once your dog has mastered the loose leash walk inside your house, you can begin to make it more challenging. Walk your yard Although your dog is familiar with their own yard, there are more distractions than inside your house. You have less control over the environment and there are interesting scents floating in the air and on the ground. Walking in your yard is more challenging and will prepare your dog for walks in public places. Practice walking in your front and backyard until your dog walks on a loose leash before moving on to new locations. Go on an outing Once your dog is walking on a loose leash in your home and yard, start taking walks around your block or other familiar places. Bring your clicker and treats, but make sure they are extra drool worthy at this point. As your dog masters the loose leash walk, keep practicing and adding new exciting places like parks and places where there are other people, dogs, and lots of distractions. Training and praise never ends so be sure to reward your dog for doing their job right. These simple loose leash walking tips with help you train your dog to walk anywhere without causing you pain. Please share them with your family and friends. Whether you have a puppy or an older GSD you are most likely going to have to train your German Shepherd not to pull on leash. Leash pulling with German Shepherds is often a result of their curious nature compounded with their high energy. This is especially true in new environments where they tend to get over-stimulated wanting to sniff and survey everything around them. I know from experience that the more excited your dog is to walk the more pulling is going to occur. When Allie was a puppy the beginning of walks were like a pulling festival. However, once we got toward the middle of the walk and she was less excited she walked next to me naturally without any hassle. Their size makes a difference because this task gets more and more difficult the heavier they get. The most ideal time to engage in leash training is after exercise or active play. This is when your GSD has already expended excess energy and is going to better listen and focus. As per my example in the beginning of the article, if I had tried to leash train puppy Allie before her walk when she was all excited and worked up, both she and I would have gotten frustrated. But after her walk she was much calmer because her energy had been expended so it was easier to get the desired behavior from her. Home is a familiar environment that is less likely to get your GSD as excited as another new location. The key is that you want to minimize new things that will distract and over-stimulate your German Shepherd during training. A flat collar would be most comfortable for your German Shepherd. I prefer a belt-type flat collar because a clip-type collar might break under substantial tension. However, there are many other types of collars to consider depending on your needs. For your leash, select a sturdy one that feels comfortable in your hand and is comfortable to grip tightly. The ideal length of an everyday walking leash is 4 to 6 feet for most people. Get them over that excitement before starting your training sessions. Allie walks on my left side. The side closest to your dog will be your treat hand and the other would be your leash hand. Capture their interest by getting them to sniff the treat and then slowly walk a few steps to see if they will follow. If they do, give them the treat and praise them for doing a good job! Do this a few times and let them realize that yummy treats come when they walk with you. Another tip is whenever your dog starts to pull, change directions. For example, if you are walking to the left and your dog starts to pull turn and walk to the right. This tactic shifts their attention and refocuses your GSD on walking with you. Gradually increase the steps after the heel command as you dog gets the idea. Once your dog can heel for steps, increase it to steps, and so on. You can test this by holding a treat in your leash hand and then no treat in what used to be your treat hand. If the pup walks nicely beside you, treat them using your leash hand. Continue practicing this and gradually build up distance. Whenever your GSD attempts to pull, stop walking completely, and repeat the command. Set longer and longer distances and praise them for each milestone. Final Thoughts Teaching your German Shepherd to walk nicely on a leash is by no means a quick and easy task. Just be patient and enjoy the process. Once you perfect the walking behavior, you can safely and enjoyably engage in many other activities with your dog. Here are a couple of good videos that demonstrate how to train your dog not to pull on a leash:. When choosing equipment for your German Shepherd puppy, it is best to start simple. Fit your pup for a nylon or leather collar that you can adjust as she grows. The exception is a harness with a strap across the front of the chest. Another option is a head collar that fits a dog similar to a horse halter. Head halters are best left to professional trainers as dogs may have difficulty adjusting , and improper use can cause great discomfort for your pet. Approach your dog to connect a leash rather than call her to you. Be prepared with plenty of treats or favorite toys because leash training requires constant reinforcement. Some trainers do not believe in food treats, but you need some kind of powerful incentive. According to most sources, including a blog by Petmeds. Adjust the collar if possible, so it does not feel tight across your fingertips. Similar to the collar, the leash should also be simple. Unless your puppy chews excessively on his leash, you can use one of leather, nylon, rope, or plastic. For heavy chewers who you cannot deter, you can use a chain lead. Keep in mind a lightweight material will be less distracting for a small puppy. The most effective length for your first leash is about six feet. You will eventually need a short lead also of about three feet. Begin leash training in a controlled environment You can start leash training your Shepherd as soon as she arrives home at eight to twelve weeks. Most of your initial work should focus on making your pup comfortable with a collar or harness and leash. Indoors There are a few reasons you should initiate leash training indoors. Your house is a safe area with well-established, clear boundaries As a training venue, your home will have the fewest distractions. Allow your pup to drag the leash When you initiate leash training, your primary goal for young puppies should be to help them get used to have something attached to their collars. Once you snap on the leash, allow your pup to walk around or even play. You can allow your pup leash time for 10 to 15 minutes at a time two or three times a day. Your pup can have some of his leash sessions in an enclosed yard as well. We recommend you only attach the leash for no more than 10 minutes at a time in the beginning and never leave your pup unsupervised. Your pup could destroy the leash by chewing, or worse, entangle himself in it or wrap it around furniture or some other object. Finally, leash work is mentally challenging for pups. Take advantage of skills your puppy learns in fun activities like fetch or remedial bite work and use them in your leash training. The first few lessons, especially, are exercises in persistence, each session marked by gradual improvement. Eventually, your pup should accept the leash as an extension of her collar. Walk your German Shepherd pup around the house Your puppy can learn a lot about walking on a leash in the safety of your home. After you have allowed your puppy to drag the leash for a few days, she may throw a tantrum when you pick up the end and try to lead her. If your puppy resists the restriction picking up her leash causes, simply remain still until she stops fighting. Reward her immediately when she relaxes. You may need to repeat the process numerous times as she may balk at any tension you put on the leash. Avoid jerking on the leash, pulling against your dog, or applying constant and unyielding tension. Pulling on your dog will only make her jerk against you with greater force. You may have found out the hard way that you rarely win a pulling contest against your dog even if you can drag her several feet across the floor. When your pup seems ready, walk him for short periods around the house just as you would outside. At first, do not worry about obedience to the leash. Reward your pup any time he allows the leash to go slack or whenever he looks toward you for direction. Also, reward him for walking at your side. Give your dog direction and purpose by tossing treats in various locations throughout the home, allowing your puppy to sniff them out and eat them on your walk. Random treats will keep your puppy in a good frame of mind, relaxed about the leash, and interested in the task at hand. It is time to go out in the yard With consistent and positive leash work, your puppy will be ready to expand her range beyond your home in a relatively short time. Your next stepping stone for leash training should be an enclosed outdoor area. Despite the fact you are working in a fenced-in space, you should teach your puppy that every training session is like a normal walk. Once your puppy is as comfortable with the leash outdoors as he was in the house, start incorporating more obedience and additional structure into your exercises. Your yard or other designated areas will provide security for your puppy, but there will be more distractions than there were inside. Again, persistence and positive reinforcement will keep your puppy on track to becoming a pleasant walking companion. There are a few times when it is beneficial to walk your dog on your fenced-in property as opposed to in public. Young puppies — Puppies have an underdeveloped immune system, leaving them susceptible to viruses prevalent in the environment like Parvo. They do not typically complete their vaccination series until the age of 12 to 16 weeks, and initial boosters do not completely protect them. You should isolate a very young puppy from potential exposure to viruses. Uneducated dog — You do not want to walk a dog without leash knowledge outside of an enclosure. German Shepherds who do not walk well on a leash can injure your arm by pulling or yanking, get away from you, or injure themselves. Social skills on a leash make your pet safer. Aggression — Leash training in an enclosed area will help you avoid confrontations with people and other dogs if your pet is aggressive. While muzzling your dog in public is an option, it does not prevent any underlying aggression and associated stress. What are a few proven methods for leash training German Shepherd puppy? What are the basic leash skills? Your German Shepherd puppy should learn a few basic skills before you attempt to leash walk her in public. When you initially go outside your yard, choose familiar routes, If you know the path you are taking, it increases the security for your dog. As your puppy continues to master leash walking, you can eventually start venturing on new routes, increasing the novelty. It is also about this time that we recommend moving to a short, stiff leash to begin training heel. A short lead keeps your puppy near you, and a lack of flexibility in the material gives you better control. No lunging at people or other animals. Walk by your side — Teach your puppy not to switch from side to side as this is a serious problem that can cause you to trip and fall. Calm and confident demeanor without pulling your arm — A large, powerful dog like a German Shepherd who pulls relentlessly can cause serious injury to your shoulder and make you lose your balance. How do you eliminate your dog pulling on his leash? When you begin leash training in earnest, you should get a leash that is short but does not pull your puppy too tightly. Your puppy should always work from the left traditional or right side for consistency. One of the most effective ways to train your dog not to pull on her leash is to abruptly stop walking when she tugs on you. You do not need to pull or yank your dog towards you. Your pup will soon notice that you have stopped moving and she cannot go anywhere. When your GSD puppy notices you have stopped and looks in your direction, reward her with a treat. Resuming the walk is also a reward. Halting every time your puppy pulls on you at the end of her leash requires consistency and patience. Many puppies get into the bad habit of switching sides during a walk, often crossing right in front of you. You can address random changes in direction by making an about-face and reversing your path. Every time your puppy heads in a direction counter to your chosen line of travel, abruptly head opposite to where she wants to go. Your ultimate goal is to reward your dog when she allows the lead to go slack and make her work harder when she applies tension by going against you. Another method of training your puppy to walk politely by your side during walks is to use a type of carrot and stick maneuver. Hold a treat just in front of your dog while walking, and if she can maintain her position by your side for 10 feet, she gets the reward. You may have to shorten the distance in the beginning. What about advanced leash training? Although not suitable activities for puppies in their advanced stages, you can begin herding and agility training of your German Shepherd puppy with the aid of a long leash. We mainly aim to illustrate how effective leash training of a Shepherd as a puppy is the backbone to more advanced skills. Long Line Long-lining can be a nice addition to your leash training. The following two videos are examples of effective GSD leash training This video illustrates the use of a short leash and why German Shepherds make efficient police dogs. The most notable features are frequent praise, consistency, and persistence. Also, notice the trainer is using play as an incentive. In this case, the leash is only a backup because the puppy is so well-trained and engaged.

If you notice any symptoms, take your dog to the vet immediately. What To Feed an Aussiedoodle Like any active dog breed, Aussiedoodles need a well-balanced diet that gives them the energy they need to play and grow. To support growth, Aussiedoodle puppies should eat a food designed specifically for the puppy life stage. Once they reach their first birthday, they can be switched to adult dog food. Aussiedoodle puppies need to eat more frequently—between three and four times a day on a consistent schedule. If your pup tends to wolf down her meals, consider using a slow-feeder bowl , which makes it difficult for her to devour a meal in large bites. Avoiding raised dog bowls and exercise around mealtimes can also help deter bloat. The dog food packaging will give guidance on how much to feed your dog based on weight, but speaking to your veterinarian about portions is the best way to keep your pup healthy. Nutritional Tips for an Aussiedoodle Active dogs need food that meets all of the nutritional needs set out by the Pet Food Institute. Proteins help your Aussiedoodle create the energy she needs for running and playing, and fats help her keep her wavy coat healthy. Behavior and Training Tips for Aussiedoodles Aussiedoodle Personality and Temperament Aussiedoodles are generally friendly and loving dogs that, when well socialized, get along with other pets and children. Each Aussiedoodle's energy level can vary. Those that take after their Australian Shepherd side may need more activity than those who lean toward the Poodle parent. Both breeds, however, are extremely intelligent and need ample stimulation to keep them from getting bored. Puzzle toys or treat containers that require dogs to figure out how to access snacks are also a good option. Aussiedoodle Behavior Australian Shepherds were bred to herd, and Poodles have hunted waterfowl for centuries. Those not given enough stimulation can turn to destructive behaviors, like chewing or digging. Otherwise, they might chase after neighborhood animals—or even cars. Aussiedoodle Training Aussiedoodles love to play and to have a task to accomplish. Teaching your Aussiedoodle to stay, and come when called, is vital for pet parents. Otherwise, their strong herding instincts and urge to chase can put them in dangerous situations. Fun Activities for Aussiedoodles. She's a whip-smart crossbreed with Australian shepherd and poodle parents who's a bundle of energetic fun, devoted companionship, and glamorous good looks. An Aussiedoodle's intelligence , loyal heart, and eagerness to please makes her a wonderful canine companion for families with children. Playful and outgoing, these genius pet pals need consistent positive reinforcement training and boundaries to ensure a happy, productive, and safe environment and a chance for them to live up to their potential. Appearance If you're wondering what a full-grown Aussiedoodle might look like and how big she'll be, well, it might be anyone's guess! Truly one of the most diverse poodle crossbreeds , Aussiedoodles have numerous coat color and texture variations, mainly because of the merle qualities of their Australian shepherd parents and the range of solid colors from their poodle parents. There's actually some science to help explain the good looks of an Aussiedoodle. For example, the Veterinary Genetics Laboratory at UC Davis notes that some genes might prompt more fur curl, while other genes determine a bushy muzzle, fuzzy eyebrows, and the dominance of merle dappling. Or she may have tight, fluffy curls with more solid versions of those colors. Red merle and blue merle Aussiedoodles are usually the product of a white- or cream-colored poodle parent and a merle Australian shepherd parent because the merle gene is dominant. Merle or piebald genes also play a part in the variance of eye color in Aussiedoodles. Their expressive round eyes are truly striking: They might be bright blue, soft green, light amber, or deep brown. Some dogs even have heterochromia, a condition that produces two eyes of different colors. Although both Australian shepherds and poodles have long, narrow snouts, Aussiedoodles usually have round heads, short muzzles with occasional mustaches, and big, boopable noses. The best part is, their ears are always wooly and floppy! This hybrid dog breed comes in varying sizes and weights because of her poodle parents. Toy Aussiedoodles are likely the offspring of toy poodles , for example, and can easily race around the coffee table. They're usually under 20 pounds and about 14 inches tall. If you'd like a miniature Aussiedoodle, find a breeder featuring a miniature poodle as a parent. She'll be a better running partner at about 30—40 pounds and 20 inches high. Many people search for Aussiedoodles with standard poodle genes, who tend to be much more athletic. She'll top out at around 75 pounds and 25 inches tall at her shoulder. Temperament Ready to go? So is your Aussiedoodle dog! Whether to the park with the kids, on a hike with your camping buddies, or a simple but high-energy romp through the backyard, she's positively thrilled to be jumping, running, fetching, and any other "-ing" verb. Poodles are known for their love of water and retrieval, so it's possible your Aussiedoodle might also be an outdoor adventurer. Who knows? She might even be a good doga buddy , too! An Aussiedoodle's temperament is loyal and loving, says Tracy, who owns Far Hill Aussiedoodles in southwest Iowa with her husband. They adore people of all ages, which is why they're such terrific family dogs, eager to please, and easy to train. Start Aussiedoodle puppy training early to bring out her optimal qualities. Having a plan to be intentional in training early on can lead to a fantastically well-rounded and well-behaved four-legged member of your family," Tracy says. He says because these dogs are so intelligent, professional training is an essential investment. Aussiedoodles are also top candidates for therapy and service dogs because of their tender people skills and need for purpose. As the offspring of two highly intelligent breeds, an Aussiedoodle is happiest with a lot of social interaction and both physical and mental enrichment. Activities like rousing games of Frisbee and canine sports such as rally, obedience, and field events are great outlets to keep your Aussiedoodle engaged. If left home alone too long, especially with nothing to do, she might develop separation anxiety, so Singletary says Aussiedoodle owners should plan to train and entertain their high-energy companions. Australian shepherds were originally bred to herd livestock, and these genetics could still be at play in your puppy. A positive reinforcement-based training plan should include redirection, teaching your dog to ignore fast-moving things, or better yet, come to you on cue when the urge to chase kicks in. As with any puppy, it's important to slowly introduce other small family pets and create opportunities for safe, appropriate introductions. Living Needs According to Tracy, because a full-size Aussiedoodle can get rather large up to 75 pounds! How much exercise is too much? This is rarely an issue with an Aussiedoodle. Singletary agrees. It prevents health issues down the road when they're older and less active," he says. So this might influence the type of fencing necessary at home or leash training for public areas. Generally, Aussiedoodle shedding is relatively minimal—to a point. Because there's no sure way of knowing what traits came from which parents, you'll have to be prepared for at least some floof. If you have an F1b Aussiedoodle, this means you have offspring from one of the purebred parents and a F1 dog. Depending on what type of F1 or F1b fur consistency your Aussiedoodle inherited, you might only have to groom her once a week or so with a slicker brush to remove loose hair, but probably twice a week during spring and fall because of the floof. If your dog's fur has more of a poodle vibe, professional grooming is probably a better option to keep her looking spiffy. Plan for Aussiedoodle haircuts every couple months. However, it's not as often as you might think. So use regular brush time as a chance to bond while you check ears , teeth , and nails. Now, the big question: Are Aussiedoodles hypoallergenic? The Mayo Clinic reinforces that no dog is truly hypoallergenic , regardless of the type of coat. A veterinarian can test your Aussiedoodle for this protein level and provide recommendations. Tracy also suggests spending quality time with another Aussiedoodle to see how you react before making one part of your family. Knowing a little about her purebred parent lineage helps you create a better long-term health care plan with your veterinarian. Australian shepherds and poodles are both relatively healthy dogs, but here are some key aspects to watch out for: According to the Australian Shepherd Association , key health risks for these dogs include hip and elbow dysplasia , hereditary eye defects, and epilepsy. The Poodle Club of America notes that this breed is prone to Addison's disease , which affects the adrenal glands, as well bloat and hip dysplasia. Proper weight management and appropriate levels of exercise for an Aussiedoodle can help prevent hip dysplasia, though it can also be an inherited condition. Tracy recommends selecting a puppy from a breeder who's mindful of these issues and is conscientiously testing to avoid them. The AKC notes that both of these European-based breeds are extremely intelligent and quite people-oriented, although they're listed in different classification groups herding and non-sporting, respectively. The Aussiedoodle's origin story is a mystery, but like many poodle crossbreeds, they've grown in popularity since the s, probably riding on the cute little tails of: The goldendoodle , featuring a golden retriever parent. And a sheepadoodle , who has an Old English sheepdog … well, you get the idea. Why all the interest? In addition to other attractive characteristics Aussiedoodles inherit from their parents, poodle genes might help some people enjoy a snuggly canine friend while reducing their reaction to pet allergens. One important point to keep in mind: Some hybrids such as Aussiedoodles are often the product of puppy mill schemes. Unfortunately, when particular dogs are in high demand, there's a greater chance they're not born into a healthy environment with a focus on their well-being, so it's essential to carefully research any pup you want to bring home. Here are some ways to spot a potential puppy scam : A breeder offers multiple mixed breeds for sale. A website states specific wait times for puppies. A breeder offers to ship puppies. A popular Instagram page is Aussiedoodles Daily , where you can see the extraordinary range of colors, faces, and personalities of these dogs! Just a little mixup when the breed immigrated to the U. Was this page helpful? Vocality level 5 in 5 Disclaimer: While the characteristics mentioned here may frequently represent this breed, dogs are individuals whose personalities and appearances will vary. Please consult the adoption organization for details on a specific pet. The Australian Shepherd, one of their breeds of origin, is a herding dog, so this instinct may kick in at times! It is important to train your Aussiedoodle with this behavior in mind early on. You can consult with a professional trainer for the best method to do so. Because they are outgoing and sweet dogs, they do make great family pets and usually get along well with children and other animals. Be sure that introductions with other pets are done slowly and keep your Aussiedoodle socialized from the start to ensure success with other animals. Upkeep Mental stimulation and proper exercise are key in the health and happiness of your Aussiedoodle or any Aussie mix. They need to work those brains! While they can thrive as an apartment dog with lots of daily exercise, they would also do exceptionally well in a home with a fenced in yard that they can run in. Due to their intelligence, they would also be good candidates for agility or flyball, or just working basic training tricks. The fur of an Aussiedoodle can vary from wavy to tight curls to shorter coats. Depending on the Aussiedoodle, professional grooming may be required every two to three months. In addition, basic care like regular nail trims, ear cleaning, brushing, and teeth brushing are required. The Aussiedoodle is a newer occurrence, dating back to the late s or early s, possibly originating in North America. This smart and sweet mix may have existed due to accidental breeding before then, until their appeal as pets was recognized. It is easy to see why Aussiedoodles and Aussie mixes in general have gained popularity in the last 20 years, as they are adorable, playful and smart companion pets. Related Content. Life Span Did You Know? The Aussiedoodle, sometimes also called an Aussiepoo, is a mixed dog breed that is more popular in the US than they are in Australia. They are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. Their friendly, sweet nature makes them a good fit as companions and as working dogs. They can often be found serving as therapy dogs, service dogs, and emotional support animals. Both of the dog breeds in this cross are intelligent with friendly dispositions. As such, Aussiedoodles tend to be intelligent, friendly, and affectionate dogs. This mixed dog breed is very playful and gets along well with children and other people and animals. They make great companions that are devoted to their families and love to be around their humans. Because of the Australian Shepherd in the cross, your Aussiedoodle may inherit herding instincts. If your Aussiedoodle starts showing herding behavior, it can be curbed early on by training to redirect that energy towards more positive outlets. The Aussiedoodle adapts well to change. They do well in most climates, but, as with any dog, do not typically do well in extreme hot or cold. They are best-suited for active families and homes with yards where they can romp around. Aussiedoodles can do well in apartments, as long as they get enough exercise, mental stimulation, and attention. However, they do not like to be alone for long periods of time and they can develop separation anxiety. If you do have to leave your Aussiedoodle alone, make sure to leave them plenty of challenging toys and puzzles to keep them occupied. Although sometimes mixed breeds win the genetic lottery, they can also still sometimes be prone to the health conditions common to both of the parent breeds. The Aussiedoodle is generally a very healthy dog, but some common health issues to be aware of include hypothyroidism , hip dysplasia, deafness, and epilepsy. Checking the genetic history of the parents and asking for the results of any health screens can give you an idea of what to expect in a puppy and allay any health concerns. The Aussiedoodle is known for being an intelligent crossbreed. This often makes them highly trainable. They are also sensitive and eager to please, which means they respond best to positive training techniques focused on rewards and praise. Early socialization and training help your Aussiedoodle puppy grow into a well-adjusted dog. Due to their high energy level, they tend to be a better fit for intermediate to experienced dog owners that know how to handle their energy and keep up with them. Their intelligence, paired with their high energy level and working group background, means they are often easily bored and do best when they have a job to do. The busier and more engaged their job keeps them the better. They also love learning new tricks! Without a job to do, they will find ways to entertain themselves, which can result in unwanted or even destructive behavior. Between the Australian Shepherd and the Standard Poodle , the Aussiedoodle coat colors and patterns vary greatly. With the Poodle in the mix, this mixed dog breed can pick up some hypoallergenic qualities and is often low-shedding. However, they have can long, straight fur, a curly coat, or something in the middle, so be prepared for regular grooming to prevent tangles and matting. You may also need to have them professionally groomed every months. Start getting your puppy used to you handling their paws and ears and brushing their teeth early on. Daily brushing is ideal to help keep tartar buildup at bay. An Aussiedoodle will generally have a moderate to high energy level. A good walk a few times a day paired with some active playtime and plenty of attention will keep this pup happy and healthy. Aussiedoodles are also active and athletic enough to compete in dog sports. They tend to be a good fit for flyball, agility, rally, and obedience. They may also love to swim, which is a great activity to help them expel extra energy. In addition to going swimming with your dog , you can also take your Aussiedoodle on a hike with you or on trips to the dog park. Aussiedoodles are medium-sized dogs that usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Looking at the size of the parents, particularly the mother, can give you a good idea of what size to expect in your Aussiedoodle. An Aussiedoodle generally lives for years. Aussiedoodles are fantastic companions and highly intelligent. Featured Aussiedoodle Article. 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 Aussiedoodle Overview Aussiedoodles are a cross between an Australian Shepherd and a Poodle. They are medium to large dogs, with a height of inches and weight of pounds. They have a wavy or curly coat that can come in a variety of colors, including black, brown, red, blue merle, and sable. Aussiedoodles are known for their friendly, loving, and intelligent temperament. They are good with children and other pets, and they make great family dogs. They are also active and playful dogs, and they need plenty of exercise. Here are some of the specific traits that are common in Aussiedoodles: Friendly and outgoing. Aussiedoodles are typically very friendly and outgoing dogs. They love to meet new people and make new friends. They are also good with children and other pets. Loyal and affectionate. Aussiedoodles are very loyal and affectionate dogs. They love to cuddle and spend time with their families. They are always happy to see their loved ones, and they make great companions. Intelligent and easy to train. Aussiedoodles are very intelligent dogs, and they are easy to train. They are eager to please their owners, and they respond well to positive reinforcement. Active and playful. Aussiedoodles are active and playful dogs. They need plenty of exercise, such as long walks, hikes, or games of fetch. They are also good at agility training and other dog sports. Some Aussiedoodles are hypoallergenic, making them a good choice for people with allergies. Overall, Aussiedoodles are wonderful dogs that make great family pets. They are friendly, loving, intelligent, and active. If you are looking for a loyal and devoted companion, an Aussiedoodle may be the perfect breed for you. However, it is important to note that not all Aussiedoodles will exhibit all of these traits. Some Aussiedoodles may be more reserved or independent than others. It is important to do your research and meet a few Aussiedoodles before you decide if this breed is right for you. Grooming: Aussiedoodles require regular grooming, especially if they have a curly coat. This can be expensive and time-consuming. Exercise: Aussiedoodles are active dogs and need plenty of exercise. This can be a challenge if you have a busy lifestyle. Training: Aussiedoodles are intelligent dogs and can be easy to train. However, they can also be stubborn at times. If you are considering getting an Aussiedoodle, it is important to do your research and make sure that you are prepared for the commitment. They are wonderful dogs, but they do require a lot of care and attention. Aussiedoodle Highlights Aussiedoodles are mixed breed dogs. They are not purebreds like their Australian Shepherd or Poodle parents. Many Aussiedoodle owners claim that they are hypoallergenic dogs and may be better for allergy sufferers, though no dog is completely hypoallergenic. Aussiedoodles are smart dogs and require mental stimulation. If they become bored, they may act out in destructive ways. Some Aussiedoodles have wavier coats, while others have tighter curls like their Poodle parents. Aussiedoodles with shorter hair may be better for allergy sufferers, but it is not a guarantee. Aussiedoodle History The Aussiedoodle mixed dog breed may have existed naturally over the years, but designer breeders started intentionally mixing Australian Shepherds and Poodles in the late s or early s, likely in North America. It makes sense why the Aussiedoodle started booming in popularity, given how smart, playful, and cute the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd are. Even though the Aussiedoodle mixed breed got their start as a designer breed, some have ended up in shelters or in the care of rescue groups. Consider adoption if you decide this is the breed for you. Check your local shelters, look up Aussiedoodle rescues, or check with breed-specific Australian Shepherd or Poodle rescues, as they sometimes take in mixed breed dogs and find homes for them. Aussiedoodle Size As the Aussiedoodle is a relatively new breed — and there are size variations ranging from toy to standard for the Poodle — there are few standards when it comes to size. That said, as a mix between Poodle and Australian Shepherd parents, you can expect Aussiepoodles to range in size from a small-to-medium size. Most weigh in at 25 to 70 pounds and range in height from 10 to 15 inches at the shoulder. That said, many can be smaller or larger. No matter their size, whether they are a smaller Aussiedoodle from a Toy Poodle or a larger Aussiedoodle from a Standard Poodle, you can expect this dog to have a lot of energy. You can keep your Aussiedoodle occupied with long hikes, walks, beach days, or retrieval games. Australian Shepherds are herding dogs, so your Aussiedoodle may try to round you, kids, or other things up! They are also incredibly smart, thanks to both their Australian Shepherd and Poodle parents, so your Aussiedoodle will require a lot of mental stimulation. If bored, Aussiedoodles can easily become destructive. Aussiedoodles also love to be around their humans. Like the Australian Shepherd, Aussiedoodles will sometimes get closer and stick with one or two of their favorite humans. Aussiedoodle Health The Aussiedoodle breed is predisposed to some of the same conditions that the Australian Shepherd and Poodle also face. While most are generally healthy, some may be prone to a few health issues, which is why it is important to maintain good care and regular veterinary checkups. Some of the most common health ailments Aussiedoodles suffer from include:. This isn't one of those click-bait articles with an intriguing title that is meant to draw you in, and then, WHAM--the article is about why you should adopt an Aussiedoodle. That isn't what I'm doing here. I want to talk to you about Aussiedoodles and why they may not be a good fit for your family. And in learning why they may not be a good fit, you may discover that this breed is ideally suited to your lifestyle! But remember, that's NOT why I'm writing this article.Our mission with Rebecca Creek Retrievers is to educate the public about Aussiedoodle puppy ownership and training. I am not fulfilling this mission without being completely transparent about the breeds and types of dogs we produce. So why am I "dogging" on Aussiedoodles? I obviously like the breed since they are an integral part of my program. I have come to appreciate, respect, and love the cross between the Standard Poodle and Australian Shepherd. I have carefully procured breeding dogs of each pure breed that complement each other in temperament and structure. Many breeders will take a Poodle and an Aussie Australian Shepherd and breed them together without consideration for structure or temperament. These breeders might be focusing on pretty merle coats or striking blue eyes. Learn more about Aussiedoodles on TellTail. Oftentimes, miniature dogs are created simply by breeding only the smallest dogs from every litter. These small dogs are coupled, and the smallest pups are kept and bred. And the cycle continues. Sometimes, no consideration for health, structure, or temperament is taken into account because the main focus is size. I'm not saying that all miniature dogs are poorly bred. I would love to have someday miniature varieties of my well-bred poodles and hybrids doodles. Still, I've yet to find breeding dogs that exemplify their standard counterparts in structure, temperament, and health that are owned by breeders who will share them with me. If you want a mini doodle Aussiedoodle mini size , please consider finding a breeder who rigorously performs health and temperament tests. Pedigrees Are Important Please look for a breeder with registered dogs or one who can provide, at minimum, three-generation pedigrees for every breeding dog. Registration is not as important as having honest pedigrees. A dog can be unregistered, but the breeder can still have access to quality pedigrees that show that dog's lineage. This is important to prevent inbreeding. Without a pedigree, a breeder cannot be sure if they are inbreeding. Because "mini Aussies" are not registerable, while Miniature American Shepherds are, many breeders of mini and toy Aussies do not have pedigrees. They cannot effectively prevent inbreeding in their programs. An ethical breeder will be willing to furnish a copy of pedigrees for their dogs upon request. A pedigree is not the same as registration papers. A dog's pedigree refers to the lineage or family tree of the dog, including information about the dog's ancestors and their characteristics. My husband has a family member with a phenomenal small standard Australian Shepherd. His owner called him a "miniature Aussie. We met the dog, and he wasn't miniature at all! He was a slightly smaller-than-normal Aussie. We interacted with him over a weekend vacation and just knew that Chet the Aussie and our small Standard Poodle, Chloe, needed to have puppies. He is much smaller than an Australian Shepherd; however, he looks identical to one in structure and other physical features. He does not have short legs and prick ears. He looks like an Aussie, only smaller! This proper structure indicates sound breeding decisions by his owner and we are so proud to have Chet at the foundation of our Aussiedoodle lines. Chet comes from the foundation Miniature American Shepherd stock. Many dogs from this original breeding stock are not registered with large pedigree databases such as the AKC. The Miniature American Shepherd was created by carefully breeding small Australian Shepherds together over many generations. The Miniature American Shepherd is now an AKC-recognized breed thanks to the hard work of hundreds of focused breeders! Genetics are so interesting, and the companies that offer these testing services are constantly evolving to keep up with changes in the registries, such as the AKC. The puppies were not only gorgeous, but they were sweet, intelligent, and entertaining. They remain to be one of our most popular litters to date. We learned a lot from the first litter of Aussiedoodles. We knew that we would need to continue to carefully select breeding pairs based on structure, health, and especially temperament. These Aussiedoodle puppies displayed a very balanced mix of herding and protection traits from the Australian Shepherd or Miniature American Shepherd , as well as the enhanced intelligence and composure of the Standard Poodle. Three Generations in the Making We kept one of the pups from that very first litter of Aussiedoodles out of Chet and Chloe, born in , so we could someday breed back to a Standard Poodle to create even more predictability in coat type and temperament. Opal, a dog from our first litter of Aussiedoodles The puppy we kept from that first litter of Aussiedoodles is named Opal. She is a red merle Aussiedoodle. She whelped three outstanding litters for our program and has helped us grow our Aussiedoodle lines. Opal matured to be one of the most amazing dogs we have been privileged to own. She was raised in a Guardian Home and spent a lot of time here with us, too. Opal displays minimal herding behaviors but is fiercely loyal and quietly protective of her family. She finished her training at just 1. We are so proud of Opal and her breeding and training accomplishments! We kept a puppy named Sadie from one of Opal and Otis' litters that was whelped in .Sadie is cream in color. When we chose to keep Sadie, we considered things like health, structure, and temperament. Sadie had a curly coat and did not test positive for merle. This is important because the cream coat color can hide a merle coat pattern, and all cream Aussiedoodles should be tested for merle before breeding! Sadie is now of breeding age and has matured into a phenomenal Aussiedoodle. Sadie represents our second generation of Aussiedoodles! She is considered an F1b Aussiedoodle. Sadie does not display any herding behaviors. She is fun to train, spunky, and active like the Australian Shepherd. She is witty and uber-smart, like the Standard Poodle. Her Guardian Home raised Sadie, and her favorite thing is to go squirrel hunting with her owner. We hope Sadie will make her debut as a mother in ! Sadie's puppies will represent our third generation of Rebecca Creek Retriever Aussiedoodles! We called these puppies "Golden Aussiedoodles. We DNA-tested every puppy. We chose to try this cross because we wanted to bring in some of the English Golden Retriever sturdiness structure and add even more genetic diversity to our Aussiedoodle lines. Remember, an Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog. Why not add a bit of Golden Retriever to enhance this fantastic cross even more? Here is a photo of one of Opal's Golden Aussiedoodle puppies: River, one of our Golden Aussiedoodle puppies We decided to keep River from this litter and add her to our breeding dog lineup for our Aussiedoodle lines! So far, River is maturing to be a beautiful dog and a well-behaved, loyal, intelligent, and trainable Aussiedoodle. We hope River will make her debut as a mom in ! River's puppies will also represent our third generation of Rebecca Creek Retriever Aussiedoodles. Oakley is a registered, purebred Australian Shepherd who belongs to an Australian Shepherd breeder in Texas and his breeder is terrific! Oakley the F1 Aussiedoodle This litter of F1 Aussiedoodles born in was another excellent example of this famous doodle cross! We kept a puppy from this litter and placed her in a Guardian Home. We named her Oakley, after her sire. Oakley displays some herding characteristics and many retriever characteristics! She lives with her Guardian Home on a acre farm in Missouri! It's a little far from our home here in South Texas, but her owners are family members, and we couldn't be happier about the extra-special life she lives. Oakley enjoys herding and protecting her flock of chickens! Sometimes she is even caught eating a few of their eggs. I guess it's fair payment for such quality guardianship! Oakley on a tractor with her owner We hope Oakley will make her debut as a mom in ! So, we have been working through several generations to continue producing the best Aussiedoodles! I withdrew all these dogs from my program before I bred them! I am sharing the following information without photos or identifiable information regarding the breeders of these puppies and dogs. The breeders I worked with were responsible and ethical, and in every one of these situations, these breeders made ethical decisions to help me place these puppies and dogs in loving pet homes. Ethical breeders understand that despite our best efforts in health testing and selecting compatible breeding pairs, many things like genetics can still be out of our control. That is why looking for a breeder with health testing and temperament testing practices is imperative. It is also essential to purchase a puppy with a very sound purchase contract and comprehensive health warranty. One puppy that we purchased in hopes of him becoming a stud for our program was diagnosed with congenital eye defects at just a few months of age. This was discovered through my routine but rigorous health testing practices. Thank goodness I opted for eye certification through a board-certified opthalmologist! This defect would have most certainly been passed on to offspring. I spent thousands of dollars on purchasing and testing this puppy, only to have to retire him early from my program. This puppy was placed in a loving pet home that understands his condition. Another puppy that we purchased with hopes of him becoming a stud for our program was diagnosed with elbow dysplasia at just over a year of age. We raised this puppy for an entire year from 8 weeks of age and fell in love with him! We discovered his elbow dysplasia right before we officially began his orthopedic testing. He started limping one day, and we proceeded with radiographs of the joints. We were saddened to learn that we could not breed this beautiful puppy. I spent thousands more dollars on purchasing and health testing this puppy and a full year of raising and training him in our home, only to have to retire him early from my program. This puppy was also placed in a loving pet home that understands his condition. We purchased a 1-year-old dog from a breeder to breed her someday to produce Aussiedoodle puppies. After owning her for an entire year and watching her fully mature into a 2-year-old dog, we decided that her temperament was not the right fit for what our customers look for in an Aussiedoodle puppy. This dog was very healthy and sound! She was also very sweet and loyal. But she had way too much energy and herding drive for our comfort. This decision was particularly difficult. It's one thing to retire a puppy or dog early because of health issues. It's especially difficult to retire a friendly, beautiful, healthy dog due to minor temperament nuances. However, this is where Rebecca Creek Retrievers and other very discerning Aussiedoodle breeders stand apart from backyard breeders. We select only the very best of the best to breed and propagate our lines! Look for an Aussiedoodle breeder with these same standards. Australian Shepherds are not. Aussies are herding dogs. So the thought of crossing the two breeds made me cringe before I carefully tried it myself. And the practice of crossing these two breeders together still makes me proceed with great caution and careful planning. A new breeder is probably not experienced with owning and training both breeds, the Poodle and the Australian Shepherd. I wasn't, either! I am experienced in owning, raising, training, and breeding breeds: the Australian Shepherd and similar Miniature American Shepherd , and the Standard Poodle. I'm also experienced in owning, raising, training, and breeding the Aussiedoodle! Here is the potential problem with pairing an Aussie and a Poodle. Two breeds with conflicting instincts retrieving vs. Please ask your breeder how they choose their breeding pairs and how those pairs will complement each other. Ask to see photos and videos of past puppies and pictures and videos of how these puppies have matured into functional adult family pets. An ethical breeder should be more than willing to answer questions like these about her dogs and their breeding choices. Sadie, F1b Aussiedoodle puppy Aussiedoodles can be phenomenal dogs when bred using careful calculations and scrutiny from breeders. Selecting complimentary breeding pairs will result in puppies that are intelligent, sweet and charming and that have appropriate energy levels and impulse controls. Health testing all breeding dogs thoroughly helps us choose breeding pairs with a high chance of producing puppies without inherited health issues. We have found that our Aussiedoodle puppies often display both instinctual behaviors of herding and retrieving very well. These herding behaviors are not usually apparent until weeks of age and sometimes much later. This is typically after puppies move in with their new families. These behaviors will surprise a family that is not prepared for them. Herding behaviors can manifest in the following but not limited to ways: Nipping at clothing or body parts while you or your children are walking attempting to herd people Jumping up and nipping at the face in an attempt to get your attention Chasing, barking and biting moving household objects such as brooms, mops, etc. These instinctive behaviors require intense obedience training and proper daily stimulation to relieve the pressure of these instincts. We encourage owners to provide an outlet for these behaviors rather than attempting to suppress them , such as lure coursing, herding trials, or even just playing a nice long game of fetch every day! These instinctual behaviors need to be appropriately fed and nurtured to keep your Aussiedoodle happy and well-behaved. We send all of our puppies home with a FREE 6-week online puppy training course because we believe in early obedience training and proper socialization. We highly recommend starting your obedience training with Baxter and Bella's Online Puppy Training School if your breeder does not offer free training for your puppy. Color or Health? A Golden Aussiedoodle puppy I want to address another aspect of the Aussiedoodle: coat color and markings. Australian Shepherds are a breed built around recessive color genetics and susceptible color gene mutations. These include the recessive "tan point" phantom genes and the dominant merle mutation. That's right--the merle color gene results from a mutation. When breeding dogs are selected and paired with a primary focus on color traits, other essential characteristics such as health, structure, and temperament are de-prioritized or ignored. We select our breeding pairs for health, structure, and temperament first. Our litters include various colors and patterns: black, brown, apricot, cream, merle, phantom, parti, and abstract. We embrace all of these colors and patterns. We are breeding Aussiedoodles because we enjoy their personalities. We are selecting breeding pairs that complement each other in health, structure, and temperament, with little regard for color or pattern except for the merle mutation. Merle dogs attract a lot of attention. Beauty is in the eye of the beholder, so I can't say that merle dogs attract attention simply because they are beautiful. However, there is no denying the fact that they are indeed very unique in appearance! A red merle Australian Shepherd Merle is a color mutation that does not behave the same as other color traits. Two merle dogs should never be bred together, as this can result in blind and deaf puppies. When two merle dogs are bred together, the puppies are known as "double merle. All merle dogs should undergo extensive health testing before breeding to ensure that they do not have any health problems related to this mutation. Some dogs are genetically merle they carry the merle mutation but do not have a merle coat pattern. They are known as "cryptic merles" or "hidden merles. If a cryptic merle is bred to a merle, the resulting offspring can be double merle, meaning they are at a high risk of being born with severe congenital defects. This is why finding a breeder who thoroughly health tests their breeding dogs and understands how genetics work is crucial when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy. Your dog's color will not affect your lifelong relationship with the dog. It is crucial to keep the above statement in mind when looking for an Aussiedoodle puppy for sale because it's true! The color of your puppy will not determine the puppy's temperament or personality. But the color of your puppy might affect his health. Take all of this information into account when interviewing breeders. We subject all our breeding dogs, including our merle dogs, to rigorous health testing to ensure that breeding pairs will produce puppies with a low risk of being born with health issues. A Golden Aussiedoodle puppy Do you think an Aussiedoodle is the right breed for you and your family? I recommend having a family meeting and writing down all the things important to you in a brand-new puppy for your family. Remember that your new puppy might live years, decide what traits or attributes may affect your long-term relationship with him. Keep reading to find a checklist to help you make this critical decision. Let's get back to that. Here are the most popular reasons people adopt Aussiedoodles and why you should not if these are your reasons: I want an Aussiedoodle because they have blue eyes! This is a vain and insignificant reason to adopt a dog that needs specialized care and training. Your Aussiedoodle puppy's eye color will not be a reflection of his adult temperament and personality. I want an Aussiedoodle because they are merle! Not all Aussiedoodles are merle. Color and coat pattern will not affect your lifelong relationship with your Aussiedoodle. I want an Aussiedoodle because they don't shed! Aussiedoodles are not hypoallergenic. The Aussiedoodle is a mixed breed dog; unless you DNA test each puppy, you will not know their coat genetics or whether they will shed. Most Aussiedoodles will shed a little bit. If you have severe allergies, proceed with caution. Also, keep in mind that lower shedding equals more grooming. I want an Aussiedoodle because I had Australian Shepherds growing up, and now I want one that doesn't shed. An Aussiedoodle is not an Australian Shepherd. It is a mixed breed dog resulting from two very different pure breeds. While your Aussiedoodle may remind you of your past Aussies, it will remain a very different type of dog and should not be compared to a purebred Aussie or a purebred Poodle. Remember, lower shedding equals more grooming. Your Aussiedoodle will need regular grooming by a professional, whereas an Australian Shepherd would not. I want a more miniature doodle. I don't want a big dog! The Aussiedoodle is a mixed-breed dog. Predicting adult size based solely on your puppy's parents is an uphill battle. Adult size and weight depend on many generations of genetics. Your breeder needs to be knowledgeable about their parent dog's generations back to accurately predict adult size and weight. I want an Aussiedoodle because they are so smart! Aussiedoodles are easy to train if you are an experienced trainer or follow a structured training program such as Baxter and Bella. Aussiedoodles are more intelligent than you can prepare for, which means without training, they will create their own rules and you will NOT like the rules they come up with! After our first litter was such a success, we decided to work towards making the Aussiedoodle a permanent part of our program. Opal the F1 Aussiedoodle with her puppies Here are some things that we LOVE about our Aussiedoodles that are unique to the breed: Aussiedoodles are lower-shedding dogs than their purebred Australian Shepherd counterparts. The level of shedding will vary significantly between puppies and puppies in the same litter. However, we appreciate that Aussiedoodles shed less than Aussies and are typically easier to groom than purebred Poodles. This is a double-edged sword, as discussed earlier in this blog post. If you are not interested in becoming a dog trainer, this is not the breed for you. Aussiedoodles will develop very naughty habits quickly without training. However, if you are hands-on with your dogs and love to train, this breed is for you! Aussiedoodles thrive with constant engagement and stimulation. The sky is the limit regarding what you can teach these dogs. Our Aussiedoodles outsmart and outperform even our purebred Poodle puppies and consistently surpass them in training classes. The aloof and witty Poodle combined with the goofy and wiggly Aussie is magical. These puppies are just fun to sit back and watch. Aussiedoodles are loving and loyal. Like the Australian Shepherd and the Poodle, these dogs love their people and are undyingly loyal to their owners. Aussiedoodle Adoption Checklist Are you ready to become a dog trainer? Proper training requires time and money. Are you ready to invest both into your puppy? Are you ready for the grooming requirements that low to non-shedding dogs come with? Are you ready to spend hours a day training, caring for, and playing with your Aussiedoodle? If your schedule does not allow for that time, are you ready to hire a qualified individual to step in and help? Typing "Aussiedoodle rescue near me" or even "mini Aussiedoodle rescue near me" may heed a few pages of confusing and sporadic search results. There are no rescues to date that specialize in the Aussiedoodle. In other words, no Aussiedodle Rescues offer Aussiedoodle puppies for adoption. There is no Aussiedoodle Rescue organization in Texas. Adopting a rescue Aussiedoodle can be risky and may not be a good decision for a beginner dog owner. Oftentimes a rescue Aussiedoodle has behavioral problems that make the dog difficult to own as a pet. The rescue Aussiedoodle may also have health problems that caused it to be surrendered. Ethical breeders require their customers to contact them before rehoming their Aussiedoodle. If you find a rescue Aussiedoodle chances are it did not come from an ethical breeder. Please do your due diligence in considering the possible implications of adopting a rescue Aussiedoodle.

Whether you have a puppy or an adult poodle, it is best to start house training him soon after bringing him home. The earlier you begin, the quicker your poodle will know the proper place to go to the bathroom. The longer you wait, the more ingrained bad bathroom habits can become, making house training that much harder. Your poodle should know when it is time to go outside to use the bathroom. Since puppies cannot hold their bladders for very long, they will need to go out more frequently. Good times to take your puppy out are first thing in the morning, after playing, and after eating or drinking. The AKC advocates for the responsible ownership of dogs and promotes purebred dog events, such as the Westminster Dog Show. Go to source As your puppy poodle ages, wait for longer periods before taking him out after different activities. This will strengthen his bladder muscles. Keep the schedule consistent to decrease the chance of accidents in the house. Your poodle should go to the bathroom in the same place every time he goes outside. This will help him remember where he should go. If you have a backyard, choose an area that is away from areas where people would go e. The area should also be away from potential distractions, such as a busy street. Put some puppy pee pads down so he can relieve himself when you are not home. As he gets older and can hold his bladder for longer, discontinue using the pee pads. Go to source If you do not have a yard, pick a nearby grassy area. Although you should identify the general area where your poodle should go, allow him to pick the exact spot within that area. When you take him outside, let him sniff around and explore within the general area until he settles on a specific spot. It may be tempting to give your poodle only a few minutes to go to the bathroom before you bring him in, especially if you are in a rush. However, rushing your Poodle when he is outside will not be very effective for house training—he may hold it so he can spend more time with you inside, increasing the chances of him having an accident. Ideally, you should give your poodle about 15 to 20 minutes outside. As you house train your poodle, reward him with positive reinforcement e. However, if he has an accident, do not punish him. Punishing him will make him fearful of you and make house training more difficult. Use an enzymatic cleaner that will remove the odor so your poodle will not go back to that same spot. Go to source If you catch him in the act of having an accident, interrupt him with a firm verbal command e. When he finishes eliminating outside, give him verbal praise and a treat. Fit the non-slip crate liner and add a comfy, cozy mat or bed. Provide your puppy with tasty treats and a couple of chew toys to tempt him inside the crate. A bowl of water is also essential that you can offer your puppy. Finally, you need to fasten the crate door open to prevent your furbaby from hurting himself if he bumps into it. Cut off a small piece of the blanket, and put it into the crate, wrapped up in the bedding. Keep the remaining piece of blanket somewhere safe and dry. You can now allow the puppy to investigate the crate. Poodles are curious, intelligent dogs, and you might even find that your pup goes into the crate immediately to eat the tasty treats inside. Poodles are clever pups who learn simple cue words pretty quickly, making your life much easier. You can begin using verbal cues from the get-go. Crate Feeding Crate feeding your Poodle can be a fantastic training technique, especially for shy, reluctant pups. Make a big deal out of dishing out the food so that your puppy gets excited. Now, put the bowl of yummy food just inside the door of the crate, out of reach of your puppy so that he has to go into the crate to get his meal. Next time you feed your puppy in the crate, move the bowl further back inside the cage. Eventually, your puppy should happily spend his meal times contained in his crate. Shut The Door Hopefully, your Poodle puppy will now view the crate as somewhere safe where he can enjoy his meals. Start by closing the crate door while your puppy is eating his meal. Be ready to open the door again as soon as the little guy finishes his meal. The idea is to keep your pet confined for around five minutes, but let your puppy out before he begins complaining. You should expect a small amount of whinging at this stage in the training process. If your pup starts complaining, turn around the ignore him. Once the puppy is quiet and calm again, you can turn around and open the crate door. If your puppy begins panicking and is distressed, open the door, and take a few steps back in the training process. Ignore the undesirable behavior, and wait until your pet desists and is calm again. Close The Door For Longer Periods If all is going well, you can start increasing the amount of time your puppy is confined to his crate. At this stage, your Poodle should be able to spend an hour or so in the crate before you let him out for a potty stop and some outdoor time. Potty Breaks Remember that your puppy must feel safe and comfortable when in his crate. So, you need to give your puppy some outdoor time every couple of hours and let him outside as soon as he comes out of the crate. Remember to factor in some bonding time after your puppy has relieved himself and before you put him back into his crate. After a month or so, you should expect your Poodle puppy to tell you when he needs to go out by heading directly to the door. By the six-month mark, your pup should be able to wait for around four to six hours before he needs to pee. Never expect your dog to wait for over eight hours before he has a chance to go to the bathroom! Clean Up Immediately! Unfortunately, accidents are inevitable when potty training your puppy, no matter how careful you are. Bad behavior issues can easily develop if your puppy becomes resentful of spending time in his crate. If the accident is outside the crate, clean your flooring thoroughly with an enzyme cleaning product. You must also clean the crate thoroughly to remove every trace of potty smell. Here are some harmful mistakes that you want to avoid. Never use the crate to punish your dog! Remember To Give Your Puppy Regular Breaks Very young puppies have extremely small bladders, so you need to remember to take your puppy outside for a bathroom break every two hours at first. The dog is a pretty hygienic animal, so you must not leave your puppy too long so that he has an accident in his crate, which would distress your pet and risk him associating his crate with bathroom spots. You must not expect an adult dog to wait for more than four to six hours before you take him outside for a bathroom break. You also need to socialize your puppy to be a well-adjusted, well-balanced dog. Final Thoughts I hope you enjoyed our guide to crate training your Poodle puppy? Please share the article if you do. Your Poodle should regard his crate as a safe spot where he can go when he needs to chill out and relax. The crate is also a useful tool for potty training your puppy and keeping your pet safe when you leave him home alone. Did you crate train your Poodle puppy successfully? How did it go? Tell us how you got on in the comments box below. Meet our writer Alison Page Alison Page was brought up with dogs and various other pets! For a few years, Alison worked as a Practice Manager in a small animal veterinary clinic. Alison is now a full-time writer, specializing in creating articles on the care and training of dogs, cats, and fish. Leave a Comment. She is awesome! We love her dearly, I am the main care giver, my name is Marlette. The question is we have been consistent with Charlotte about sleeping in her cage, not with us. This is one Poodle who hates her cage. She does not bark or wine long but she does not sleep well in her cage. She gets up at in the morning and soon after wants to sleep during the day when she sits with me. I know this because I check her to see if she needs to go potty. After I find out she's okay she runs to my bedroom stands at the side of my bed I still put her back in her cage. It is so hard! I put a blanket, toys, treats but she would rather be with me then go to her cage. My husband thinks I hold her to much, I do feel she wants time with me in the day time and I am most happy to play, cuddle, train her then knowing she was in her cage all night. Charlotte only takes an afternoon nap in her cage. Charlotte loves to be with me if I leave the room she looks for me follows me everywhere. Could this be the problem? Answer: Hello There! This is one of the Poodle's most endearing qualities and it is why so many people choose to have a Poodle. Poodles love to be with their human family members and can become quite sad and despondent if they are not allowed to be close to their human. There definitely needs to be some adjustments to how things are being handled at night. However in regard to spending time with her during the day, there is no such thing as too much time with a dog. You are not spoiling your Poodle by holding her;you are simply giving Charlotte what she naturally needs.However, regarding the cage.There are several elements to consider: 1 You don't say how large or small this cage is; however we are assuming it is a small crate type enclosure. Metal wire cages are just terrible for dogs as the wire grating can cause havoc on paws. And both small crates and cages are too confining for a dog to be in overnight. For your Poodle's comfort, we would suggest choosing a designated area that would hold her dog bed and toys. This can be a small gated off area or an indoor canine playpen. You would leave the entrance to this open when you are home so your Poodle can enter into it when tired and wanting to take a nap and you would close it at night, to keep her secure and in one spot while sleeping. However, there is no reason to check on her as often as you do. Just the sound of you approaching may wake her up; dogs can hear so much better than we can. As you are tiptoeing up to her cage, most likely you think you're being super quiet but she hears you coming. So, from her perspective, she is sleeping or at least resting quietly , you come up to her. She believes that you are initiating interaction, so she in turn runs to your room. But wait! You really didn't intend for that.You put her back in her cage and now she's really confused. Is she supposed to sleep? Is she supposed to wait one more hour until you tiptoe back in? Is it a game.With your Poodle puppy being 4 months old, she can hold her urine for 4 hours. It is important that Charlotte learns to control her bladder as she grows up. At 5 months, she should be able to hold her needs for 5 hours.And then no matter how old she is, 8 hours will be the maximum time that she will be able to hold her bladder. And there is no need for you to be waking up so often. So, as you can see this is really not a matter of your Poodle hating her cage; it is just a matter of mistakenly training her to think she is supposed to keep leaving it to run to your room. As a side note, be sure to take her for a nightly walk about 2 hours before bedtime to tire her out, have the last snack of the day no later than 1. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. They prefer a quiet, confined, enclosed area where they feel safe and secure. In fact, the proper use of a crate can help in housetraining, provide secure travel, lower the stress in a dog, keep a dog safe in certain environments, and keep him from damaging his surroundings. Wire crates vary from heavy gauge to lighter weight types which fold and store easily. Wire crates allow total ventilation and enable the dog to see everything in his environment. That visual stimulation may be too much for some dogs. Some dogs may pull or chew on the sheet covering the crate. To avoid this, place a piece of thin plywood on top of the crate. The plywood should be large enough to allow the sheet to hang a distance from the crate where the dog cannot gain access to the sheet. Plastic or metal airline crates are required to ship a dog by air. Most airlines have specific crate requirements for canine shipping, so consult with your airline carrier. An airline-approved crate also offers greater protection to the dog in an accident. Plastic airline crates separate into two halves which can be stacked for storage. They are also safer for small dogs or puppies as there is less chance of a leg, paw or jaw getting caught in the wire. Fabric or soft-sided crates are light weight, fold easily, and are convenient when traveling. A dog must be completely crate trained before you can trust him in a soft-sided crate, because the crate can be chewed through or rolled and moved. For these reasons a soft-sided crate is not recommended for puppies. New crates can be bought in pet shops and discount pet food outlets, from pet catalogs, at dog shows, farm supply stores, department stores, or on the Internet. Be prepared to thoroughly clean and disinfect a previously-owned crate before using it. The price will depend on the size, manufacturer and type. Many come with a removable floor. Some can be ordered with doors on the side or the end, or both. Various kinds of crate pads are available to cushion the bottom of the crate. Most crate pads are washable. Most dogs are very accepting of a crate. Any complaining at first from a puppy is more likely due to adjusting to his new environment and perhaps the loss of his littermates. Place the crate in a room the family uses, such as the kitchen. Keep it out of drafts and away from any blowing hot or cold air vents. Start by feeding the Poodle in the crate. This will make the crate a positive place and enable him to eat without any interference from other dogs or children in the house. Establish a routine. Put him in the crate for naps, when he must be left alone for a few hours, or whenever a responsible person is unable to supervise him. Be sure to remove a collar with tags as it might become caught in an opening or wire grates. Most healthy puppies learn to sleep through the night within a few weeks. Large puppies such as a Standard Poodle can be clean through the night as early as 8 weeks. Smaller puppies may take a bit longer. Housebreaking can be achieved more quickly if the owner is consistent about using a crate routine. Keep the pup crated for as long as it can hold it, then take the puppy straight outside, giving ample opportunity for the pup to relieve himself. Give the puppy a lot of praise when he eliminates and then take him back inside for at least 15 minutes of free time before going back in the crate. The idea is to build up the amount of time the pup is able to both hold it and remain free in the house by gradually giving the pup longer periods of free time inside the house, then crating for a period of time before letting him back outside. If you find your puppy is soiling the crate pads, towels or blankets in the crate, remove them and keep the bottom clear of any bedding. Some puppies will soil in their crate and hide it in their bedding. If there is no padding, the puppy must sit in his waste. Some puppies are used to eliminating on newspaper, so the use of paper to line the bottom of a crate is not recommended. All crates should be large enough to permit the animal to stretch out flat on his side, stand up and turn around. If you do not know the approximate adult size of your puppy, buy the larger size. For an adult dog, use a crate close to his length, measuring from the tip of his nose to the base of the tail. The height and width of the crate will be proportionate to the length. A temporary crate is most convenient for a puppy. Look for a used one. If you must use an adult size crate, make it smaller by placing a large plastic box in the back or making a moveable partition out of wire or wood. Make sure whatever you use is safe and secure if the puppy chews on it. If the crate is too large it is not as effective a tool for housetraining, because the puppy can move away from where he has eliminated. There are very few dogs that will not accept confinement. While more common with adult dogs than puppies, there are a few which seem to show signs of claustrophobia when crated. Before giving up, try a different kind of crate. If, despite every effort to use positive methods, the dog is obviously frantic or panicked, it is inhumane to continue its use. These dogs can do physical damage to themselves trying to escape. It is always worth trying, however. In most cases, use of a crate will prevent or solve undesirable behaviors, enhancing the relationship you have with your dog. A dog crate is not recommended as a method of confinement for a dog regularly left alone all day, although some dogs may learn to tolerate it. If necessary on a temporary basis, the dog must be well exercised before and after crating. Additionally, he will need extensive personal attention when you are home and freedom during the night rather than being crated again at bedtime. It is also very important that the crate is large enough so he can stand erect and stretch out fully on his side. An oversized crate is recommended. It must also have a non-spill water dish. Ideally, someone will come during the day to provide a time for elimination and exercise. An exercise pen x-pen can be attached to the front of each side of a crate, allowing the dog or puppy more room to move about while still being confined and providing a space outside the crate for him to eliminate. For puppies, a crate can be used as a playpen for general confinement. It should be large enough for a sleeping space with bedding at one end and a papered area for elimination at the other. Again, a water dish must be provided. Be aware that a puppy raised in isolation may suffer from lack of socialization, leading to difficulties in training, housetraining, and poor social skills with other people and dogs. Dogs are social creatures, and a puppy that lacks sufficient human contact will grow up to be a poorly-adjusted dog and pet. You can leave your dog home alone, knowing he will not damage your belongings. He is protected, comfortable, and unable to get into trouble. Housetraining is easier as the close confinement encourages cleanliness and control. You can establish a regular routine for your dog and prevent accidents in the house. You can keep the dog from being underfoot or in the way during meals, prevent him from wandering outside when people might leave outside doors open, or when he becomes over-stimulated and needs time to calm down. You can travel with your dog knowing that he cannot get loose in the car or escape if a door is open and that he cannot distract the He is safely confined for his protection in an accident, and he has the comfort of familiar surroundings when away from home. If you plan to show your dog in performance venues such as agility or obedience, it is essential that the dog be crate trained. Your dog needs a quiet place to relax while at the show. Simply lead the dog to the crate, put him in, and close the door. He has his own space, a den, where he can retire when tired, stressed, or needing to escape too much attention from children in the household. He can avoid the consequences of undesirable behaviors that have been prevented. He can more easily learn to control his bodily functions. He can remain in proximity to the family when supervision is impossible instead of being banished to the garage or yard. He can be included in family outings and trips rather than being left home or at a boarding kennel. Feeling secure in a crate will lessen his anxiety when he has to be crated at the vet or groomer. Accustoming your dog to a crate makes shipping the dog much less stressful. You want a well-mannered pet, and your dog wants to please you. A dog crate can accomplish this for you both. Additionally, the cost of a crate is minor compared to the expense of replacing furniture, carpeting, or veterinary bills from your dog eating inappropriate and harmful objects. This information has been provided to you at no charge. You are free to use it provided it is used in its entirety with no changes or alterations and that the copyright remains intact. If you have found this information to be helpful, please consider making a tax-deductible donation to: Versatility in Poodles Franklin, NC To make a donation via PayPal, please click the Donate Button: The contents of the www. The Content is not intended to be a substitute for professional veterinarian advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your veterinarian with any questions you may have regarding the medical condition of your pet. Never disregard professional advice or delay in seeking it because of something you have read on this website! If you think your pet has a medical emergency, call or visit your veterinarian or your local veterinary emergency hospital immediately. Versatility in Poodles and www. Reliance on any information appearing on this website is entirely at your own risk. Menu Start Right Away! The most wonderful tool available for helping you train your puppy is a crate. After all Canines are den animals. If the crate gives your puppy just enough space to sleep comfortably, he probably will not want to use the crate as a potty area. That means that when you cannot directly supervise your puppy you can keep him in his crate, knowing that he will instinctively control himself when in the crate — as long as you do not leave him in there longer than his little puppy bladder can handle! If you leave a puppy in a crate for more than a couple of hours at a time, you are setting him up for failure. If you take him out often you will give him the opportunity to get it right. That is the GOAL!!! If you take him out on a regular schedule this will be discussed under House-Training , you will have even better success. When purchasing a crate there are two things to consider. The ultimate size of your dog. Our Standard Poodles tend to range from 45 to 55 pounds and stand 22 to 25 inches high at the shoulder. Unless you are going to be buying different crate sizes as the puppy grows, it is best to buy a crate with a divider. My recommendation is that you look at www. They come with a divider. Your puppy has already been introduced to the crate. So Crate Training should begin immediately upon your arrival home. There are numerous training aids which provide guidance in this area. However, since it is important to begin a training routine immediately, the following basic tips will give you a start: Never push or shove your puppy into the crate Never use the crate as a means of punishment Coax your puppy in with toys or a treat Reward your puppy with lots of praise and another treat Also note: Do not leave your new puppy alone in the crate for more than 2 or 3 hours during the day. Your puppy will need to relieve itself often. Because they do not naturally like to soil their sleeping area this works in your favor for potty training. They will whine or bark so you can quickly take them outside. In this way the puppy learns to tell you when it needs to go outside and you should show your approval. This may be a little challenging at first when the puppy seems to whine to want out of the crate. You have to set the pace as to what whine or bark you will accept. Do not give in to every whine or bark. If possible place the crate in your bedroom at night until your puppy feels secure. This also allows for you to hear its whine when it needs to go outside to potty. Use old towels or blankets for bedding to begin with. For the first few nights placing something of yours with your scent on it will help your puppy feel more comfortable and secure. Soon your puppy will be sleeping through the night. You establish the times for going to sleep and waking up. Be consistent. Thereafter do not place anything in the crate until his potty training is well under way. The idea here is that if your puppy has an accident he will be wet and uncomfortable until you come to rescue him. When your puppy is dry and clean for two weeks straight then you can try giving him a towel and see how he does. When possible leave the door open during the daytime in a restricted area so that the puppy can go in and out at will. The crate is not only used to help you house-break your puppy but also to help you establish yourself as leader and set clear limits for your young puppy. A puppy that is not crated gets into lots of expensive trouble before he is full grown. Dogs do not suddenly outgrow destructive chewing and getting into things, so it is best that they never learn that they can chew or destroy furniture or other valuables. More helpful hints: The rule for puppies between seven to fourteen weeks old is that they are in their crate more than they are out. When they are out they are confined to a puppy-proof area and under close supervision. If no one is available to watch, the puppy does not receive freedom. Remember, your puppy is a baby and also needs a lot of sleep and down time. When he is out of his crate he is usually in overdrive, playing hard. After about fourteen weeks you can start to be a little less vigilant and see how it goes. If your puppy is getting into trouble back up and limit his time out to supervision time only. Gradually work toward having your puppy out for longer and longer periods of time without him getting into trouble. Also, do not give him the run of the house. Start in a small area and as he earns your trust widen the area he is allowed to be in. As he gets close to a year old you can gradually leave your puppy out longer while you are home with less supervision. However, make sure you check on him frequently to be sure that he is not getting into trouble. Crate him when you leave the house, at least for the first eighteen to twenty-four months of his life. Remember, he is not considered full grown until he is two years old. When your Poodle has proven that he is trustworthy while you are home, you can then allow him out of his crate while you are out. Start with short periods of time. Eventually, when he can handle small amounts of time, you can extend his free times to longer and longer periods, until he can be home alone several hours of the day. To prevent future behavior problems by giving privileges too soon, your puppy should sleep in a crate from day one. The crate can be in your room, but your puppy should not be allowed to sleep with you. Using a crate is an excellent way to ensure that your puppy will not destroy something valuable. Be sure also to have lots of hard chew toys available for him to chew on. Dogs that are given too much freedom too soon are bound to get into trouble and learn to be destructive. Many behaviorists and dog trainers agree that separation anxiety can be triggered by failing to set boundaries and limit freedom when a dog is young. A young dog that does not get too much freedom too soon can learn to be alone without becoming destructive. Before we go any further we want you to know that the training of your puppy has already started. The mother of the puppies start training her babies right away. It is a delight to watch her gentle but firm ways. One thing she teaches them is about keeping there eating and sleeping areas clean. Here at Poodle Mojo we aid the mother in the natural training process and then we continue the process so your puppy comes to you already potty and crate trained. It is up to you to know how and to continue in their training. Remember… In order to house train your puppy successfully you must crate train your puppy. If you are buying your puppy from us it will have already been introduced to the crate. Yes, we have heard some people say that a crate is cruel. Well, these people think dogs are people instead of canines. Dogs are den creatures. They like a safe place to be able to go to. They also like their own place. If you have to relate in people terms, well then, you have a house and you have a bedroom. Some of you also have your favorite chair. The first training priority for most new puppy owners is house-training. This is definitely job number one for any puppies living with humans. Therefore, the key to this process is to reward your puppy when he does what you want, and to keep him from ever making a mistake. Supervision is the KEY in this process. Young puppies do certain things when they are getting ready to relieve themselves. Typically, they begin to sniff the ground while moving constantly, sometimes in a circle, looking for a good spot. Until your puppy is well trained, go outside with him. The right spot should be a spot that you always take him to until he can go out by himself. The Schedule The most effective house-training is a combination of crate training and schedule feeding and potty training. And remember consistency is the key to success. Here is an example of a potty schedule for an 8 week old puppy: am — Potty. There are three different poodle sizes — standard, miniature, and toy. Ranked 7 in breed popularity by the American Kennel Club, this wickedly clever canine breed can quickly be crate trained. How do you crate train standard, miniature, and toy poodles? The crate training process will be a similar process to training any canine breed. You will want to begin when a puppy to establish good habits early on and purchase a crate that is large enough for them to stand up comfortably. To crate train your poodle, no matter their size, you should follow these steps consistently: Introduce your poodle to their crate using positive reinforcement. Place treats and comforting items like blankets and favorite toys in the crate. Begin feeding your pup meals in the crate. Every two hours, take your poodle outside. Make sure that you are bringing them straight from the crate to the door each time. Ensure that every time the crate door is opened, you bring your puppy outside. Be mindful of giving your poodle adequate playtime and bonding time with you. Continue these steps until your puppy always goes to the door when they need to potty. This article will answer any questions you have about crate training, potty training, house training, and creating a better-behaved dog. It will cover each size variation and the details you need to know in caring for each unique poodle breed. Crate training can seem intimidating at first, but with a brilliant breed like the poodle, it will be a piece of cake! The process designates a safe space for your pup and instills in your poodle that, when they leave the crate, it is for a potty break. You may find it difficult or unsettling to leave your pup in a crate, especially during the first few weeks that they are home, and you want to cuddle and love your new poodle. However, establishing a routine as soon as possible will be the fastest and easiest way to guarantee your dog has fewer potty accidents in your home. How To Crate Train Poodle Puppies The process you will follow to crate train your poodle puppies consists of the following steps: Introduce them to the crate and use plenty of positive reinforcement. Positive reinforcement will be your greatest ally in the crate training method. It allows your puppy to feel safe. Set some treats or toys in the crate and have it decked out with blankets and other comforting items. Allow them to sniff around the area and decide for themselves. Start feeding them meals in the crate, making this a safe spot where they can let their guard down. Always keep water in the crate and make it a nice place to rest. Take your puppy out every 2 hours and always take them directly outside after they come out of their crate. Make sure that while crate training, especially in the early stages, when the crate door is opened, you bring your poodle pup directly outside. Make sure that they are getting a balance of play and bonding time but are still going out every two hours or so, then directly back to their crate. For the most part, this is what the first month or two will run until you can trust them to tell you when they need to go out by going directly to the door. By the 6-month mark, your puppy will be able to hold their bladder for around hours, but you should never make a dog of any age hold their bowels and bladder for over 8 hours. There is no exact timeline for how long this process will take because all dogs are different, but it should last around weeks for most dogs. You could see drastic results in the first week and be able to offer your poodle more playtime, but you should remain diligent no matter how fast your pup catches on. By the third month, they should be taking you to the door or pawing at it when they have to go. The goal of crate training is that they will be able to communicate to you when they need to go in the future. If they are showing significant progress, reward them with more freedom but continue taking them out at the same time while heading directly to the door each time. A great behavioral training course can really help with crate training. I found a fantastic training system called Brain Training for Dogs. If you need any behavioral training at all for your dog, I would highly recommend this course! Check it out here The Potty Schedule Outlined In case you prefer a more specific outline or blueprint for scheduling, the following list gives the times that you should make sure to bring your poodle outside to use the bathroom: First thing when you wake up in the morning Before each play break Every 2 hours or so during the afternoon After their nap After each meal about minutes after eating to digest and have to go badly After drinking lots of water Right before bed As you can see, your poodle should get plenty of time outside of the crate. If you are not offering them this free time, you are doing it unethically and irresponsibly. It will be a gradual process of integrating them into the crate, and then once they are trained, slowly integrating them out of the crate while leaving the door open as an option. Follow these steps to implement the crate training process correctly: Start with more social hours at first with lots of potty breaks. After the first week or so, slowly add more crate time and reduce the amount of free social hours, adding an hour or two a day for the first few weeks. The middle of the process week should be very focused on maintaining a schedule. Two hours in the crate Right outside for a potty break. At this point, you can increase the social hours and reduce the crate hours. They will catch on in time, and they will finish their training when they are ready. Remember that accidents will happen during this training, and it is important not to punish your puppy because of them. You can add the following items to make it cozy for your pup: Fuzzy blankets A small water bowl Toys Chew bones Use rubber that is good for puppy teeth and gums. Do not use a real bone that could sliver off into sharp pieces. This could be a choking hazard for canines of any age, so you need to be very careful in selecting bones. These are some comforts that will make the crate feel like a safe haven instead of a punishment. I recently wrote the guide to the best toys for poodles. I discuss crate training related topics such as boredom and separation anxiety, as well as the best toys to help curb these behaviors. You can learn more here. This will only make them fear the crate and you, making the process take significantly longer or not work at all. Make it cozy and safe. Make meal-time designated to the crate. Leave treats in the crate when they successfully hold it for a potty break. Slowly add to the amount of time they must hold it. Some go by the method of the month to hour ratio for potty breaks. For example, if your puppy is two months old, they can hold it for two hours. If your puppy is three months old, they can hold it for three hours, and so on. Develop a term you say excitedly to invite them to go back to their crate. The reason that crate training works is because a dog is a relatively hygienic animal that will not want to sit with their urine or fecal matter. Some reasons why you should crate train your poodle are: It teaches them not to poop or pee where they sleep. It helps strengthen their resolve to control their bowels and bladder. This offers you peace of mind knowing you are not leaving them to develop bad habits. It helps your dog become well-trained for travel and comfortable with future crate-required plans. It offers them a safe shelter that is all their own. It lets them know that you alone establish their schedule. It helps the dog see you as the alpha and aids in your retaining control. This avoids having an out-of-control puppy that is beyond training. It will end up being their security blanket, and if done correctly, crate-training offers them a space they can retreat in for serenity and solitude. Mistakes to Avoid When Crate Training Your Poodle There are plenty of ways to accidentally do a disservice to your dog while crate training them. This will result in them fighting you the entire time, and you risk them not properly being potty trained. You will need to take them out often to avoid them sitting in their waste. You may consider taking them out every hour, but you must take them out at least every two hours. Do not confuse crate training with locking them up all day because they will need many potty and social breaks. Keep in mind that their bladders might be larger, and they can hold it for longer, but not more than hours. You may have to reprogram their brain that they need to hold it unless they are outside. They want to be creating a relationship with you and the world. If they are not getting time to play and enjoy human interaction, your poodle can quickly become depressed or develop anxiety. This is probably the most important takeaway you should hold on to. Now that you understand the basics of crate training, you must learn the differences between each type of poodle. The poodle breed overall has won countless blue ribbons, is the national dog of France, and is known for its pedigree and class. The three classifications for poodles that are based on their size are: Toy — The smallest variation will often be less than 10 inches tall and weigh under 9 pounds. They are bred from larger poodles, so they retain the same behavioral and personality characteristics as larger poodles. Miniature — The miniature poodle is closer to the toy poodle in size and is between 11 to 15 inches tall and weighs between 10 and 20 pounds. Standard — The largest variation of poodle will be over 16 inches tall with most being around 25 to 30 inches tall and weigh between 40 and 75 pounds. They are bred for retrieving and intelligence. Selecting A Crate for Your Poodle There are tons of crates to choose from, but your primary considerations going into the crate selection will be the following: Select a crate that allows your dog to stand up, spin around, and not feel claustrophobic. You will want it a few inches taller than their height when standing straight. If there is room to designate a bathroom area in the crate, it is too large. Crates for pets will most commonly come in the following materials: Wire Plastic Fabric If you select a wire crate, your pup can see their surroundings. This allows them to look around and feel included, while a plastic crate may have walls that make them feel too confined or left out. Best Crates for Each Poodle Size It can be difficult to know what size crate will work best for your poodle. Here are my favorite crates on Amazon for each toy, miniature, and. Crate Training Your Poodle: Behavioral Problems and Solutions Your dog will sometimes cry during the early stages of their crate training. Some common behavioral issues of the poodle breed to be aware of are: Barking at all hours of the night Digging holes in the yard or your carpet Chewing on furniture or shoes Jumping the fence when let outside Stealing human food Hand chewing or biting Potty accidents Many of these behaviors are triggered by a bored poodle that is not getting enough socialization, exercise, or bonding time. Play more games with them Provide toys that are mentally stimulating, like puzzles that release treats Provide more chew toys if they are biting hands. They may be teething and need special Puppy Chew Toys Teach them more tricks and take opportunities to train them Your poodle is very intelligent and loves to be trained. Give them more brain activity and tasks to accomplish, like training, and the happier your poodle will be. Dogs like to feel a sense of purpose, just like humans. Show them more attention, and most of these bad habits will cease. Without adequate care, your poodle will become depressed, anti-social, anxious, or downright badly behaved. Check out this video to help stop your poodle from barking in her crate: Final Tips on The Crate Training Process Potty training your puppy will be a challenging but worthwhile process! This psychological training will condition them to follow your lead, have their safe-space and territory, while also communicating more clearly when they need to go outside. Take their lead in how ready they are to be free of the crate. If they cry at night, it is normal. Animals get scared of the dark, just like humans. Reduce their anxiety by making them feel less isolated. When your puppy has playtime, leave the crate door open. You may notice that they go back in willingly. The right crate connects to their instincts and should be well-embraced by the poodle breed. If you are going to commit, commit properly by avoiding punishments and making this a consequence-free period of learning for them. In Conclusion Take the crate training technique on in baby-steps. The tortoise beat the hare for a reason. Offer your dog love, affection, treats, and consistency — and they will be potty-trained in no time! Crate training should not be about leaving them in the crate all day, but more about instilling healthy habits. The crate should feel like their safe space. Find more ways to add comforts and offer them treats each time they go in their crate. Be mindful not to rush the process or force it upon them. It will happen naturally as you develop your routine with one another. I hope you found it helpful. Here are some products that I personally believe every owner should employ to help ensure the best quality of life for their dogs. But in all honesty, these are the exact products that I use and recommend to everyone, even my own family. Lemonade Pet Insurance : Lemonade Pet Insurance has enabled me to afford a very high level of veterinary care for my dog, Angus. Even after he was diagnosed with cancer a few years back. This program actually works, and at a small fraction of the cost of hiring a dog trainer! Pet Plate is the dog food subscription service I use to provide extremely healthy, pre-portioned meals for my dog. Pet Plate gives my dog Angus the highest quality nutrition at a very affordable price. BarkBox : Without a doubt, my dog enjoys Barkbox more than anything else I buy him. BarkBox delivers a customized box of themed toys, treats, and other products to your door each month. In addition, I like that a percentage of proceeds is donated to local animal shelters. I Purchase this service for my dog Angus and have saved hundreds of dollars over visiting his local vet with questions or more minor health concerns. Brent Hartman I'm Brent Hartman. I've been a dog lover my entire life and have owned many animals over the years. When my black lab Angus passed away, I was looking for another friend to share my life with. As a result of my research, I've come to love poodles and wanted to share some of what I've learned with you. Whether you're looking to adopt a poodle, or already own one, I created Poodle report to be the ultimate guide to help you find the answers you need. Recent Posts.

Welcoming a new puppy into your home is an exciting time filled with joy, cuddles, and a few inevitable challenges. One of the most common questions new puppy owners ask is, "When can puppies go outside? Table of Contents Easiest Dog to Take Care of: Top 10 Breeds for a Happy Home Do you ever dream about having a furry best friend who loves to play fetch, gives the warmest cuddles, and greets you with the happiest tail wags every time you come home? A friend who is not just any dog, but the easiest dog to take care of? We know, it sounds like a dream come true, right? But we also understand that bringing a new puppy home is a big step. It's like adding a new member to your family, a little brother or sister.All French Bulldog Insights French Bulldog Breed Info If you're seeking an adorable companion with a charmingly squashed face, an easygoing personality, and a distinct penchant for lounging on the couch, the French Bulldog could just be your perfect match. With their signature bat ears and expressive eyes, French Bulldogs, or "Frenchies" as they are lovingly known, have captured the hearts of many dog lovers around the globe, consistently ranking among the most popular breeds. Renowned for their easy maintenance and the ability to thrive in apartment living, French Bulldogs are a city dweller's delight. Their small size, typically weighing under 28 pounds, makes them perfectly suited to compact urban spaces. However, their charming personalities and heartwarming companionship are universally loved, irrespective of city or countryside living. This breed's laid-back nature does not mean they're devoid of fun and play. On the contrary, French Bulldogs can be quite playful and are known for their often comical and entertaining antics, which only further endears them to their owners. Their affectionate demeanor, combined with a remarkably low barking tendency, makes them a joy to have around the house. French Bulldogs are sturdy, compact, and stocky, with a powerful muscular build that contradicts their small size. They have a smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors, from fawn and brindle to white and grey. Their facial expressions are human-like, and they're known to "talk" using a complex system of yawns, yips, and gargles. However, owning a French Bulldog does come with responsibilities. Their brachycephalic short-nosed nature makes them prone to certain health issues and less tolerant of extreme temperatures. Despite their muscular appearance, they are not the best swimmers, and care should be taken around bodies of water. They are so compassionate and loving with their own dogs, as well as have taken in rescue dogs to find homes for. They are reputable and honest and have been able to make many families happy by providing healthy puppies through the breeding of high quality dogs. Their home environment is super clean and their dogs are kept clean, well-groomed and well cared for. I would recommend Kelfrey Frenchies as dog care-givers, breeders, and overall knowledgeable regarding dogs, dog-breeding and dog care. Jacqueline S, Allen, TX Kelly is an amazing breeder that I would highly recommend to anyone looking for the perfect puppy to add to their family. Being a first time dog owner, I had the best experience that I could ever have gone through with the process of buying a puppy. Starting with very reasonable prices to the cutest puppy updates. I can honestly say Kelly is the best breeder out there to trust, she cares and knows so much on how to have your puppy as healthy as can be by the time you get to take him or her home. She also gives you as much information as possible on vaccines and everything that your puppy needs in order for your puppy to live a long happy and healthy life. She is extremely knowledgeable about Frenchies and available to help any time before and after you receive your puppy. Of course, the best part is her puppies. They are healthy and happy from the start. I was skeptical until we brought our baby home. It is amazing. She gets up and goes to the box every time she needs to potty. I am so grateful that I found Kelly and Kelfrey Frenchies! Interested in a puppy? Want to know when our next litter arrives? We have answers. Do you want a dog that will make you smile? If so, a French Bulldog may be the perfect breed for you! These dogs are known for their flat faces, big eyes, and big heads. They always seem to be up to something, even when they're just taking a nap! If you're looking for a popular breed that will bring some joy into your life, the French Bulldog may be perfect for you. Why are French Bulldogs so expensive? Welcome to the wonderful world of Frenchie pups! These special little dogs are born in a unique way, due to their narrow hips which prevent them from reproducing naturally. Their breeders must be skilled in both artificial insemination and C-section delivery in order to ensure the health of both the mother and her pups. But despite all this, Frenchie pups are absolutely adorable and make wonderful pets! What if there are no French Bulldog breeders near me? Looking for a place to get your hands on a French Bulldog? There are plenty of reputable breeders throughout the state, and even more across the country. No matter where you are, we can help connect you with a breeder near you. How do you screen French Bulldog breeders? Looking for a new furry friend? Come to Uptown Puppies! We have the cutest selection of pups around, and all of our breeders are vetted to ensure they meet our high standards. Puppy mills are a big no-no for us, so you can rest assured that all of our pups come from healthy and safe environments. Are French Bulldogs good for apartments? Looking for a low-maintenance pet that won't take up too much space? A Frenchie might be right for you! These little dogs are known for being lazy, which means they don't need as much exercise as some other breeds. So if you're tight on time or space, a Frenchie could be a great option. Dogs, like people, are individuals with their own unique temperaments. Some French Bulldogs can be Stubborn, but with the proper training methods, they can be just as obedient as any other dog breed. Start out by being clear and consistent in your commands, and don't give up even if your puppy doesn't seem to be responding at first. With a little bit of time and patience, you will see results. Are French Bulldogs a working breed? Dogs have been man's best friend for centuries, and there are few breeds as loved as the French Bulldog. These pups are known for their adorable, squishy faces and big personalities. Though they may be small, French Bulldogs have won over the hearts of people all over the world. Originally popular among the upper class in France, these dogs are now loved by people of all social backgrounds. If you're looking for a loyal and lovable companion, a French Bulldog might be the perfect fit for you. Walking your dog is a great way to get some exercise, and it can be a lot of fun for your pup too! But how much walking your dog needs depends on individual factors such as appetite, weight, and temperament. You'll get a feel for what's right for your dog by paying attention to these things. So get out there and enjoy some quality time with your furry friend! If you're looking for a dog that doesn't shed much, a French Bulldog is a great choice. They may shed a little, but their short, fine coats mean the shedding is hardly noticeable. There are very few breeds that don't shed at all, so French Bulldogs make a great pick for families who don't want to deal with hair around the house. This summer, make sure to keep a watchful eye on your French Bulldog. Because of their short noses, they can have a harder time than other dogs staying cool in the heat. Dogs regulate their body temperature by panting, so on hot days your Frenchie may need some extra help staying comfortable. Make sure they have access to air conditioning and plenty of fresh water. With a little help from you, they'll be able to enjoy the summer just like everyone else! French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds in the world for a reason: they're absolutely adorable. With their big ears and squat bodies, these pups are sure to make you smile. But it's not just their looks that make them so lovable. Frenchies are also known for being loyal, affectionate, and relatively low-maintenance dogs. So if you're looking for a new furry friend, consider getting a French Bulldog. You won't regret it! Are there any French Bulldog hybrid breeds? There are so many amazing dog breeds out there, how could you ever choose just one? If you're stuck trying to decide, why not go for a hybrid breed? Mixed breeds are created by crossing two or more purebred dogs. For example, you could get a Frenchiepoo - a cross between a French Bulldog and a Poodle - or a Frenchton, which is a combination of a French Bulldog and a Boston Terrier. With so many possibilities, you're sure to find the perfect pup for you! Although spaying or neutering is not compulsory, it is highly advisable to spay your French Bulldog. This will help to decrease its chances of getting certain kinds of cancer. It also prevents the risk of unwanted breeding between your French Bulldog and any nearby dog. Are French Bulldogs Aggressive? French Bulldogs have the potential to be aggressive. However, they are not usually aggressive unless they are trained that way. It is important to note that they may show aggression towards other dogs or smaller animals. Owners should watch out for signs of aggression and nip them in the bud. What is the life expectancy of a French Bulldog? With a proper diet and nutrition, French Bulldogs can live for up to eleven or thirteen years. Can French Bulldogs eat raw meat? French Bulldogs can eat raw meat such as chicken, liver or kidney. They could also eat canned, dry food. What is the difference between a French Bulldog and an English Bulldog? French Bulldogs and English Bulldogs are quite similar but different at the same time. English bulldogs are bigger while the French Bulldog is considerably smaller. French Bulldogs also have upright pointy ears whereas the English breed has folded ears. Do I have to worry about fleas with French Bulldogs? Just like all other breeds, French Bulldogs can get fleas. If they do get fleas, this can be solved by getting flea medicine or using a flea comb to get rid of the fleas. How do you deal with separation anxiety in French Bulldogs? French Bulldogs are very prone to separation anxiety. To curb this, owners can crate train their dogs or provide them with chew toys. What is the best way to train your French Bulldog? Crate training is one of the best ways to train your French Bulldog. It helps to create good and positive behavior in your Frenchie and could be a fun place for it to rest. Are French Bulldogs children-friendly? French Bulldogs are not the best option for kids. However, if they grow up surrounded by children, the risk could be lessened. They should not be left unsupervised around kids. How big are French Bulldogs? The French Bulldog is about 11 or 12 inches tall and weighs an average of pounds. Are you interested in purchasing a French Bulldog? Fill out the below form and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.

Here are some tips for finding a good Golden Retriever breeder: Check they are members of any breed club: The first thing you should do when looking for a good breeder is to check whether or not they are members of any breed club. You can usually find this information on their website or by contacting them directly via email or phone call. Why Buy From a Responsible Breeder? If you are looking to get a dog, always buy from a reputable breeder. There are many great reasons to buy from a responsible breeder. Second, responsible breeders have their puppies raised in an environment where they can properly play with other dogs and be socialized with people early on so that they will be more comfortable when starting out as a new addition to your home. We have listed below some reasons for buying a puppy from a responsible breeder. Responsible breeders have their dogs health tested and ensure that they are good representatives of their breed. A responsible and ethical breeder will never sell puppies without first meeting with potential buyers. They also do not sell puppies until the dog is at least eight weeks old, which ensures that it will be well socialized with humans and other animals. Also, if any of their dogs have a genetic disease, they will tell you about it. Responsible breeders will raise puppies with socialization, proper nutrition, and veterinary care. Below we provided some simple steps to help you identify whether a dog breeder is worth buying one from or not. This will get a better idea of how they treat their dogs and you can also see the environment where puppies grow. If the conditions are terrible, this is a bad sign. Ask them about their experience working with the breeder and ask if they would recommend them. Step 4: Ask the breeder for references. Step 5: Feel free to ask any questions you have. Make sure you ask all the questions you have. Do not hesitate to ask questions, This will help ensure that you are getting a healthy, well-socialized puppy from a responsible breeder. You will have a better chance of finding a reputable Golden Retriever breeder if you follow these steps. How much should a Golden Retriever cost in Australia? Prices vary based on lineage, health, and whether you purchase a puppy from a trustworthy breeder or not. If you know any great Golden Retriever Breeders who live in Victoria, please let us know in the comments below so we can add them to our list. What is the Breeder Name? Where are they located in Victoria? It really helps others who are looking for Golden Retriever puppies in Victoria. In conclusion These are the best Golden Retriever Breeders in Victoria that we have found and added to our list. There are many breeders but we review and check the breeder before adding them to our list. The aim was to create a dog better suited to the task of retrieving game from both water and land in marshy areas, through the structured breeding of water spaniels, setters and retrievers. Average Life Span When considering a dog, please realise that you are taking it on for its lifetime. The average life span is 10 to 15 years. Temperament The Golden Retriever is an intelligent, active dog with a kindly expression and a gentle, affectionate nature. They should be calm and biddable and are eager to please. General Breed Description Golden Retrievers make excellent companions. They need to closely interact with their owners and be regularly included in family activities, as they thrive when taking part in fun activities with their owners. They are not a breed to leave in a backyard for too long, preferring to be active, happily spending lots of time at the beach or park, playing and retrieving a ball or frisbee. Basic training is an important part of responsible dog ownership, so they will learn to be well mannered and obedient. They are great competitors in Obedience, Agility, Rally, Flyball and other dog sports. Goldens have a double coat which is wavy and water resistant, in colours ranging from shades of cream to deep gold. Size Height: Males 56 to 61cms 22 to 24ins , Females 51 to 56cms 20 to 22ins. Health All breeds have individual health issues. The Golden Retriever is generally a healthy breed, however health conditions do occur occasionally. There are DNA tests available for a range of conditions. The National Golden Retriever Council has some useful information sheets. They are happiest when they are included in family activities and do not like being left alone for long periods. They are best suited to active people, as they do require regular exercise, whether that be a long walk, a game of fetch or a swim. They are easily trained and eager to please, happy to do whatever is asked of them. In Conclusion Now you know a little more about this breed. If you have decided this is the dog for you and wish to investigate further, please contact the Breed Club or Dogs Victoria. They will be able to give you information about available puppies and also suggest dog events where you can see the breed and speak to breeders. In this way you will gain a better perspective of the breed and its needs. With any breed of dog, it is important to research and determine suitability for your lifestyle before committing to a puppy which will be a part of your family for many years to come. Whilst many breeds are recommended for families, it is imperative that when children are with dogs they are supervised at all times. Basic obedience training is a vital part of dog ownership. Dogs Victoria is about the responsible ownership of all dogs and in particular the preservation of pure breeds. Regular Grooming Temperament The Golden Retriever is a highly adaptable breed and will make for an extremely affectionate family member. They are know to be a child friendly breed. They are a wonderful addition to families with young children. Golden Retrievers are sociable dogs and are known to get along with other dogs. Suitability Golden Retriever enjoy out door play, active lifestyle and a re playful from puppies though h to adulthood. Access to regular exercise and fun environments where they can run or swim would be an ideal outing for a Golden Retriever. Small living spaces for this medium to large breed would not be ideal. The Golden Retriever makes for a wonderful family companion, who will play and teach them…. Coat The Golden Retriever has a lustrous golden coat, and comes in different shades of gold, from dark golden to light golden. The GR coat is of medium length, and will require moderate grooming. Their lovely golden coat is a moderate to high level of shedding, but with regular grooming this is manageable. Size And Weight The average height of a Golden Retriever is between 54 cm in height and can weigh kg as an adult. Life expectancy of a Golden Retriever is years. Our breeding process is carefully planned and executed with the utmost care and dedication. We prioritize the health and well-being of our parent dogs, ensuring they undergo comprehensive health screenings to minimize the risk of hereditary conditions. This commitment to responsible breeding allows us to produce Golden Retriever puppies that are not only physically healthy but also mentally and emotionally well-balanced. We believe in transparency and open communication with our clients. We are always available to answer any questions you may have and provide guidance throughout the entire adoption process. When you bring a Golden Retriever puppy from Designer K9 Breeders into your life, you can expect ongoing support and resources to ensure a smooth transition and a lifetime of happiness.

Listed below are answers to the most common questions I receive as you are preparing to take your puppy home: 1. What is my puppy eating? We are feeding your puppy PawTree. They have a multitude of other flavors you can try out after your puppy comes home too. You can buy this food by clicking the PawTree picture at the bottom of any page on our website. You can find out more information at www. We also encourage you to set your order to their EZship so you never run out. They also offer personalized food by filling out a pet profile so we encourage all families to head over to fill out their pet profile for personalized food plan as well as personalized bags of dog food when they arrive. How many times per day should my puppy be fed? We feed puppies, weeks old 3 x per day. We try to keep them on a schedule such as: a. Once the puppy reaches 12 weeks, we cut them back to eating 2 x per day, eliminating the noon feeding. Increase the amount you feed based on the recommendations you will find on the dog food bag as suggested by weight of the puppy. We do not recommend free feeding — give your puppy about 20 minutes to eat, then pick it up and put it away. Water should be provided at all times, except during the night. Wet the food for about 30 minutes prior to giving it to the puppy so it softens to aid in digestion. However, if you see loose stools it is almost assuredly overfeeding so back it off until the stool is firm and then slowly add back in. When can I start training my puppy? We like to see training start as soon as you pick up your puppy from my home, or your puppy arrives via car or airplane. We recommend transporting your puppy home in a crate that is lined with a bath towel. Feeding time is a fantastic opportunity to train as you can spend a few minutes several times per day with teaching the basic commands of sit, stay and come. We provide a helpful training booklet with detailed information on training on our Puppy Tips page. What size crate should I buy for my puppy? Most puppies that will mature to a medium size will need a large crate once they have reached maturity. Plastic crates are an option as well. If you have any questions please ask us. What type of collar and leash do I need and what size is best for my puppy? We like to buy the less expensive, adjustable-type of collars and a nylon leash. We do not care for the expandable leashes that allow the puppy to walk way out in front or way off to the side of you. The smallest setting for the collar would be about 8 inches and expanding out from there. We use small carabiners to attach the stretched chain between the collar and the leash. This will prevent your puppy from chewing your new leash. If you are reserving a small size pup then I would suggest an XS collar. Another option while they are very young is a slip leash style. Some families like to train in harnesses. This is also a tool you can use. Sizes will vary from company to company, but most go off of weight. Ask us the estimated weight of your future puppy at the time they will go home so you will have a rough idea of what to purchase. It is never a bad idea to weight to buy until you can size your puppy in person though as each harness will fit differently. You can play the radio softly if your puppy is in a different room from you as this is how they were raised with us. You have to find a system that works for you. However, keeping consistent for the first few nights will build a sleep pattern in your dog you will enjoy for its entire life. How many times per night will my puppy need to go out to go potty? We suggest you feed your puppy dinner no later than p. Make sure that you see puppy go potty and poop before putting him to bed for the night. If your bedtime is p. Then only if puppy is whining, let him out very methodically to potty no playing and put him right back to bed. How many times per day should my puppy need to go potty? Puppies will always go potty right away after they wake up and after they eat. If you take puppy out right after eating, see him go potty, then allow about 30 minutes of some free time in your home before making his world small using a temporary fence or leash. On average they can typically hold their bladders for 2-hours, but every puppy will react differently to stimuli in your home. Should my puppy have contact with other vaccinated dogs? We like to make sure other dogs have not only been vaccinated, but are also free of parasites. Worms of all sorts can live in feces and it just take a quick second for your puppy to ingest enough to get a parasite. This product should be alternated every 6 months. There are countless natural remedies as well as chemical based options you can find at your vet. We always prefer natural options first, but in some cases the chemical based products are needed. Check with your vet or trainer for their recommendations in your area. We strongly suggest topical or collar options only. How often should I give my puppy a bath and what should I use? We do not bathe our puppies unless they are dirty and we use baby shampoo or something gentle. We usually suggest people decide what they like in the look of their Labradoodle. Do you like the longer, shaggy look, or do you like the shorter, more manicured coat? If you leave the coat longer, you will need to keep it combed out and mat free. Do you have recommendations for where to stay when we pick up our puppy? We are located only 20 mins from Lebanon, Oregon. There are numerous hotel options in Albany, Springfield, or Eugene that you can explore. Be sure to measure the food using a standard 8oz measuring cup, which holds 4. The Importance Of Water Intake Adequate water intake is crucial for the overall health and well-being of your Labradoodle puppy. Water plays a vital role in various bodily functions, including digestion, absorption of nutrients, circulation, temperature regulation, waste elimination, and maintaining proper hydration levels. To ensure that your Labradoodle puppy gets enough fluids to meet its nutritional needs, you should provide clean and fresh water at all times. One guideline suggests providing an ounce of water per pound of body weight daily—for instance, if your pup weighs 10 pounds; it would need about 10 ounces of water each day. Keep an eye on the water bowl throughout the day and refill it when necessary. Age And Weight Labradoodle puppies have different nutritional needs than adult Labradoodles, and their age and weight play a huge role in determining how much to feed them. Puppies younger than 12 to 18 months old require higher levels of protein and fat to support their growing bodies. Large breed puppies, including Labradoodles, should not be overfed because too much food can lead to obesity or other health problems later on. On the other hand, underfeeding can also cause issues such as stunted growth or malnourishment. Activity Level The activity level of a Labradoodle puppy is an important factor to consider when determining how much food to feed them. Active puppies burn more calories than those who are more sedentary, so they may require larger portions. For example, if your Labradoodle puppy enjoys long walks or playing fetch in the yard, they will have higher energy needs compared to a puppy that prefers napping on the couch all day. This assessment helps determine whether they are carrying excess fat, which can lead to obesity and other related health problems. It is important for Labrador owners even more so because this breed has been known for gaining weight easily when not fed right and exercised regularly. Puppies with sensitive stomachs or allergies may require a specialized diet that excludes certain ingredients. Dogs with medical conditions like diabetes, obesity, or gastrointestinal issues will have specific dietary requirements. Instead, opt for high-quality commercial dog food or homemade meals that meet their nutritional requirements while avoiding excessive calorie intake. Nutritional Requirements Labradoodle puppies have specific nutritional requirements that must be met to ensure healthy growth and development. These pups need a balanced diet with macronutrients such as protein, carbohydrates, and fat, along with micronutrients like vitamins and minerals. Look for commercial dog foods formulated specifically for growing puppies that meet the minimum protein and fat requirements. Feeding Guidelines For Labradoodle Puppies Establish a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle puppy and measure the amount of food to maintain balanced nutrition, with wet and dry food options available. Types Of Food Wet, Dry, Homemade Labradoodle puppies can eat different types of food such as dry, wet, semi-dry, raw, dehydrated or freeze-dried food. It is essential to note that not all dog foods are created equal — some contain artificial additives while others may lack essential nutrients necessary for optimal growth and development in puppies. Meal Frequency Labradoodle puppies have specific dietary needs that must be met in order for them to grow and develop properly. Meal frequency is an important consideration when feeding your Labradoodle puppy. Puppies under the age of four months should be fed small, frequent meals throughout the day, as their tiny stomachs cannot handle a large amount of food at once. Generally speaking, most Labradoodle puppies should be fed three to four meals per day until they are six months old, after which time two meals per day will suffice. Many owners choose wet or dry dog food that comes with detailed recommendations on how much food should be given based on these factors; others opt for homemade diets or mixtures of both types of food. Here are some best practices for managing their weight and ensuring proper development: Choose a high — quality puppy food brand that is specially formulated for their growth needs. Measure out the appropriate amount of food based on their weight, age, and activity level. Avoid overfeeding, as this can lead to obesity and other health problems. Stick to a consistent feeding schedule, with small meals per day until they are around six months old. As they grow older, you can reduce the frequency to two meals per day. This involves assessing their body shape and feeling their ribs without excess fat. Consider supplementing with omega — 3 fatty acids or other nutrients if recommended by your veterinarian to support healthy joints and brain development. By following these best practices, you can help ensure that your Labradoodle puppy is getting the nutrition they need for optimal growth and development while avoiding potential health problems in the future. Tips For Feeding Your Labradoodle Puppy Consult with a veterinarian to determine the best diet for your Labradoodle, monitor their weight and adjust food intake accordingly, stick to a consistent feeding routine, avoid overfeeding and feeding table scraps, and consider training treats as part of their overall daily food intake. Consultation With A Veterinarian It is important to seek advice from a veterinarian when determining the appropriate feeding guidelines for your Labradoodle puppy. Regular check-ups can ensure that your Labradoodle stays healthy throughout their life stages, receiving all necessary nutrients while avoiding overfeeding or undernourishing. Here are some tips on how to monitor and adjust their food intake: Use a Digital Scale: Weigh your puppy every few weeks using a digital scale and keep a record of their weight. Also, note if they have noticeable waist or tuck up. By monitoring their weight regularly and making adjustments as needed, you can ensure that your Labradoodle puppy receives the right amount of nutrition for healthy growth without becoming overweight or underweight. Stick To A Consistent Feeding Routine Labradoodles thrive on routine, making it essential to establish a consistent feeding schedule. Feeding your puppy at the same times every day helps them maintain healthy digestion and prevents accidents in the house. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems down the line. Make sure everyone in your household knows when mealtime is so that nobody gives your pup any extra treats or scraps outside of those designated times. Giving in to their begging eyes with occasional treats is fine, however, too many high-calorie snacks or meals from the table can lead to obesity, which can cause joint problems and shorten their lifespan. Instead of giving in to those pleading brown eyes with human food or extra treats that are not part of their balanced diet, try rewarding them gradually throughout training sessions. Choosing low-fat dog treats that are healthy for your pup provides an appropriate way to reward good behavior while keeping them on track towards healthy growth. Training treats provide an excellent incentive for good behavior — they can reinforce positive habits such as potty training or leash manners. However, overfeeding these treats can lead to weight gain and other health concerns in puppies. FAQs: 1. The amount you feed your Labradoodle puppy will depend on their age, weight, and activity level. As a general rule of thumb, puppies under six months old should be fed three times per day while those over six months can be switched to two meals per day. It is recommended that you give your Labradoodle puppy high-quality dog food specifically formulated for puppies. Look for foods that contain a balance of protein, fat, and carbohydrates to meet their nutritional needs at this stage in their development. Overfeeding can lead to obesity and other health problems while underfeeding can result in stunted growth and malnourishment. Some signs that you may be overfeeding include excessive weight gain or difficulty breathing while underweight dogs may have low energy levels or seem lethargic. Conclusion Feeding your Labradoodle puppy the right amount of food is crucial for their growth and development. With the help of a veterinarian, you can determine how much to feed your furry friend based on their age, weight, activity level, and nutritional needs. Establishing a feeding schedule with appropriate portion sizes and meal frequency is also important. Peter My name is Peter and I am a dog lover. I have two German Shepherd dogs, one of which is called Biscuit because his coat is very light with brown patches. My wife and I moved from the UK to Ohio where we now live with our two daughters. We love squash on weekends and following the English Premier League closely! Previous Article. The difficult part is deciding which one will have the greatest positive impact on their well-being. The following are some of the top options for dog foods for your Labradoodle: Dry Food: Due to its affordability and accessibility, dry dog food is a preferred option for Labradoodles. The nutrients in high-quality dry food are appropriate for a different life stage of your Labradoodle. Dry food has the greatest shelf life when compared to other types of dog foods. Wet Food: Wet food or canned food is another option for owners. Labradoodles enjoy the variety of flavors in canned food that come in interesting shapes like other meaty foods. Owners may combine wet food with dried food because wet food alone is typically more expensive than dry food. While it can be costly, doing so guarantees that their pups receive high-quality food. If you only give the same food to your Labradoodles, they could develop picky eating habits. Hence, it makes sense to follow the advice of the majority of veterinarians to combine kibble and wet food with a ratio of 20 to .Make sure the food you choose is sustainable and highly recommended by experts. Ensure that it will suit your needs, those of your dog, your financial situation, and your way of life. The average price of a Labradoodle is already costly. Hence, it is important to choose the kind of diet that will also suit your budget. Foods to Avoid Feeding Your Labradoodle Dog owners must be aware of the foods that can be harmful, poisonous, or trigger an allergic reaction in their Labradoodles. The following is a list of some harmful or poisonous foods that you must never give your pet Labradoodle: Alcohol: There is no enzyme that can digest alcohol in Labradoodles. Hypoglycemia , metabolic acidosis , respiratory difficulties, or central nervous system CNS impairment could result from ingestion. Avocado: Avocados contain the fungicidal toxin persin , which has been linked to the death of many dog breeds, including Labradoodles. It can cause vomiting, loose stool, and heart damage when taken in large doses. Chocolate: The major alkaloid in cocoa and chocolates, theobromine , cannot be broken down by an enzyme found in the stomachs of Labradoodles. As a result, even small quantities of chocolate can cause toxicity. Additionally, they could become uncontrollable, have convulsions, throw up, and have diarrhea. Grapes and raisins: As a result of the tartaric acid found in grapes and raisins, Labradoodles experience diarrhea , vomiting, dehydration , and kidney failure. Unfortunately, even one full grape can cause fatal injuries and irreversible harm to Labradoodles. Onion, garlic, leeks, and chives: All of these vegetables contain N-propyl disulfide , which robs red blood cells of their ability to carry oxygen. Consuming these veggies over time may cause hemolytic anemia. It is frequently present in toothpaste, gum, candies, and syrups. Listed below are foods that may seem harmless but are actually hazardous for Labradoodles: Cooked bones: Cooked bones are prone to shatter into shards. They can hurt your Labradoodle as well as obstruct its mouth, throat, and stomach. High-sugar foods: Your Labradoodle is more likely to develop health issues, including diabetes, obesity, and teeth damage, if it consumes too much sugar from other dog foods. Avoid cheap dog food, which usually contains too much salt. Consuming too much salt can result in seizures, renal failure, diarrhea, and vomiting. If ignored, this results in gastrointestinal blockage and death. Bring your Labradoodle to the nearest veterinary clinic immediately if you think they have accidentally ingested any of the aforementioned foods. A smart technique to make sure that their nutritional demands are being satisfied is to switch to a new food. If you want to gradually introduce a new food to your Labradoodle pup, make sure to introduce it in little amounts every day. The timeline provided below will help you introduce a new food to your Labradoodle: Days. As they grow you will move from four meals per day at 8 weeks old, to just one or two in adulthood. And you will want to use as much of their daily kibble as you can in training. Helping to strengthen the bond between you, as well as to teaching them which behaviors you want to see in your home. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy When it comes to feeding your new Labradoodle puppy there are plenty of options to choose between and a number of things to consider. Puppies grow up fast. The first thing to keep in mind is that puppies have different dietary needs to adult dogs. Getting too much of some nutrients, and not enough of others can lead to developmental problems. Growing pups digest food and absorb nutrients differently than adult dogs too. Their gastrointestinal system also works much faster than that of an adult dog. Puppy Nutrient Requirements Puppies need more calories than adult dogs, relative to their size. In fact, they need about twice as many calories in relation to their body weight compared to that of a full grown Labradoodle. Compared to mature dogs, puppies also need: more protein to support growing muscle more fat to fuel growth and a different mineral balance to aid in the rapid development of their bones. For example, one study showed that puppies fed a low phosphorus diet suffer from impaired appetite and growth, diminished skin and fur quality, and a disturbed musculoskeletal system. Too much calcium can also negatively affect bone development, by accelerating it. This is a serious joint condition that leads to painful arthritis and lameness. The smaller and younger your puppy is, the more often they need to eat, since their stomachs are too small for big portions. Labradoodle puppies that are 4 months or younger should have their food split into 4 meals a day. When they reach 4 and 6 months old this can be reduced to 3 meals. Knowing how much to feed your Labradoodle puppy can be tricky. So the feeding charts on the packaging are a good place to start. This basic pet calorie calculator can help determine how many calories a puppy needs. Overfeeding Labradoodle Puppies Canine obesity is a big problem for many dogs and the Labradoodle is no exception. Some Labrador Retrievers are known to have a genetic mutation that causes them to have an insatiable appetite. But there are plenty of genetically normal dogs who will always want more food. If your puppy is constantly hungry you can try giving him smaller, more frequent meals. In fact, for training purposes we recommend using as much of each of the meals rations as you can as training treats between meals. These days there are a lot of brands vying for space in the dog food market. So deciding what to feed your Labradoodle puppy might be the most difficult question of them all. Puppies that are 8 to 12 weeks old should continue eating the same food they were eating at the breeders. If you want to change their food, wait until they are fully settled at home. Then transition gradually to a different diet to avoid causing an upset tummy. You can do it over the course of a week, like this: Feed 1 part new food to 3 parts old food on the first two days. Equal parts old food and new food on days three and four. And three parts new food to one part old food for two more days after that. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Dry Food Most puppy parents choose one of the many commercial dry puppy foods available. There are many reasons why these diets also known as kibbles are so popular. They are. Is kibble, cans, raw or homemade food better? Swapping Puppy Food Brands Moving into his or her new home is a challenging and exciting time for your Labradoodle puppy. Keep feeding what your pup is used to for at least two weeks. Then, slowly start mixing in the new food you have chosen for your pup. Labradoodle Puppy Diets Puppies have lots of growing to do. This means that they need more of certain minerals and nutrients for example calcium and phosphorus for bone growth. Your labradoodle pup will also need a higher amount of good quality protein. This is definitely not the case, though. This—among other things—can cause joint problems, such as hip dysplasia. Labradoodles are a cross between two breeds that are both already at high risk of developing hip dysplasia. The most important thing of all is to avoid overfeeding a Labradoodle puppy, as we will see later in this article. This is called hypoglycemia. Generally, a feeding schedule for your Labradoodle pup can look like this: 2 — 4 months: 4 meals daily 4 — 6 months: 3 meals daily 6 — 8 months: 2 — 3 meals daily Older than 8 months: 2 meals daily. Just make sure to divide the total daily amount onto multiple feedings. You can make slight adjustments to these amounts if your pup is looking a little slim or chunky. The number of calories your pup needs will also change as he or she gets older and heavier. There are a couple of different options out there. Commercial dog foods offer complete and balanced nutrition for your growing pup — this means that they have all the right nutrients in all the right amounts and ratios. If a puppy is fed an inappropriate diet, this could lead to long-lasting growth defects or other malnutrition diseases. Feeding a Labradoodle Puppy Kibble Kibble is the most popular type of dog food out there. There are only two things you need to pay attention to when choosing kibble: It should be designed specifically for puppies, and it should be high-quality. Research shows that higher-priced dog foods tend to have higher nutrient digestibility than lower-priced kibble — so it might be worth spending a bit more. Choose a kibble that contains a meat protein source as the first ingredient, and steer clear of ingredients like corn, soy, and cereals. Due to its high water content, the aromas and taste of the meat unfold better, making wet food the most palatable food there is. This comes at a bit of a cost, though: Wet food tends to be more expensive than kibble, and of course it spoils more easily. To get the best of both worlds of commercial dog foods, you can combine or alternate between kibble and wet food. The BARF diet consists of lots of raw meat and bones, as well as some veg and fruit. Supporters of raw feeding think that it will make your dog healthier, although there is no solid evidence for this yet. Raw meats are often contaminated with bacteria such as Salmonella or Campylobacter. These bacteria could potentially cause diseases in your pup. However, this is extremely rare, as the digestive tract most dogs can handle these bugs just fine. This means that there is a lot less danger of bacterial infections from raw meats. Keep in mind that cooking for a dog is not the same as cooking for yourself. Avoid spices, onions, garlic, cooking oils, and too much salt. These are dogs that will always want more food and are prone to obesity. It can help to space out meals or add one or two feedings a day if your dog is constantly hungry. Another option is to make your dog work for small amounts of food throughout the day — be it with puppy training, food balls, or puzzles. The possibilities are endless. Dog owners often get bombarded with endless choices as well as countless adverts from the dog food companies, who all claim that theirs is the best. When it comes to dog food, the simple answer is no one food is best for all dogs. But the question is: which diet is the best for your Labradoodle? Luckily, there are many different options when it comes to dog food. The most popular manufactured foods include a complete diet dry , with or without a biscuit mixer and semi-moist. Some dog foods contain only natural ingredients. Then there is the option of feeding your dog a home-made diet. Some owners swear by a raw diet while others feed their Labradoodles vegetarian food. Within the manufactured options, there are many different qualities of food. Usually, you get what you pay for. Expensive ones are more likely to provide better nutrition for your doodle in terms of minerals, nutrients, and high-quality meat, whereas the cheap ones will most likely contain a lot of grain. Dried food also called kibble in the USA tend to be less expensive than other dog foods. They have improved a lot over the last few years, and some of the more expensive ones are now an excellent choice for a healthy, complete diet. Dried foods also contain the least fat and the most preservatives. Often semi-moist foods contain a lot of sugar and artificial substances, which is why some dogs seem to love them. Choosing the right food for your Labradoodle is very important. The diet influences his health, coat, and even temperament. It can have an effect on his health, coat , skin, energy levels, and temperament. There are several different types of food that you can feed your labradoodle — dry, semi-moist, canned, frozen, or freeze-dried are just some of the options. You can also feed him a home-made or raw diet. Many owners of labradoodle with allergies or skin conditions are now considering this option. Dry Dog Food for Labradoodles Dry food is a popular choice for Labradoodles, especially for large dogs who get through a lot of food. It is also less expensive than other dog foods. It is worth paying for a high-quality dry food as cheaper ones may contain a lot of cereal. It also means that you have to feed larger quantities to ensure your dog gets sufficient nutrients. Canned Dog Food for Labradoodles Canned food is another popular choice. Dogs also love them. They love the taste, and it generally comes in a variety of flavors. Canned food is often great mixed with dry kibble. If your labradoodle has lost interest in food and on a dry food diet, then you can add a small amount of canned food. Canned food tends to be more expensive than dried food. Many owners do not like the mess that it makes. If you store a part-opened tin in the fridge, then it can have an overpowering smell when you open the fridge door. Semi-Moist Dog Food for Labradoodles These are the commercial dog foods shaped like pork chops, salamis, burgers, or other meaty foods. They are the least nutritional of all dog foods. They are full of sugars, artificial flavorings, and coloring. You may give your doodle one as an occasional treat, but they do not provide the nutrition that your labradoodle needs. Freeze-Dried Dog Food for Labradoodles The frozen food manufacturers often make this for dog owners who like the convenience of it. You can store them for six months to a year. They do it to make sure that their pets are getting the right nutrition they need. Feeding your doodle a home-cooked diet can be time consuming and expensive. The tricky part is sticking to it once you have started with the best intentions. Raw food for Labradoodles If your doodle is not doing well on commercially prepared dog food then you might need to consider a raw diet. There is evidence that they are becoming increasingly popular among the Labradoodle owners. Raw food diets emulate the way dogs ate before the existence of commercial dog foods. After all, dry, canned, or other styles of cooked food for dogs were mainly created as a means of convenience. However, raw diets are not without controversy. Supporters of the raw food diet argue that a carefully planned raw diet gives the dog numerous health benefits, including a healthier coat, more energy, cleaner teeth, and get rid of bad breath and doggy odor. But the critics say that the risks of nutritional imbalance, intestinal problems, and food-borne illness caused by handling and feeding raw meat outweigh any benefits. Scientifically, the jury is still out. This is one of the most frequent questions that all the Labradoodle owners ask. But there is no easy answer. The correct amount of food for your labradoodle depends on several factors such as: Breed.

Are you ready to bring home a furry bundle of joy from Gleneden Labradoodles? Look no further than the small, medium verified, multi-gen Australian Labradoodles for sale! These adorable pups result from crossing a Labrador Retriever with a Poodle, creating a delightful hybrid breed that has captured the hearts of dog lovers worldwide. Our first litter from Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles is now available! Labradoodles, a crossbreed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, are incredibly cute and possess some amazing qualities. One notable feature of this dog breed is its hypoallergenic coat, making them an excellent choice for dog owners with allergies. Say goodbye to sneezing fits and itchy eyes — Labradoodles, with their gorgeous fleece coats, offer the perfect solution for allergy sufferers who long for canine companionship. Labradoodles are known for their friendly and sociable nature, making them fantastic family pets. Labradoodles easily adapt and become cherished members of any household, whether you have children or other pets. Labradoodles are an appealing dog breed due to the wide range of sizes and colors they come in. Whether you prefer a miniature or standard size, you can find the perfect labradoodle to fit your lifestyle. Their coats can also be curly or wavy, adding a unique touch to each pup. Labradoodles also make great pets for families looking for their first litter of old puppies. The combination of different sizes, colors, and coat types makes Labradoodles popular among dog lovers. Finding reputable breeders specializing in authentic Australian Labradoodles is essential when searching for labradoodle puppies for sale. Trusted names like Gleneden Labradoodles and Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles ensure you bring home a healthy and well-bred pup from their first litter with gorgeous fleece coats. These Labradoodles have a non-shedding coat, making them perfect for those who are allergenic. These small, medium-verified multi-gen Australian Labradoodles are adorable furballs that will undoubtedly bring love, joy, and endless cuddles into your life! Labradoodle Colors: Black, Chocolate, and More Labradoodles, a popular dog breed, are known for their gorgeous fleece coats in various colors. Common Coat Colors Labradoodles, a popular dog breed, can have an array of coat colors that make each old puppy unique and special. The most common colors include black, chocolate, cream, apricot, and red. These caramel hues can vary in intensity and may even change as the puppy ages. Watching how their coats develop over time in each litter is fascinating! Labradoodle Puppies for Sale in Maryland Black Labradoodles, including red caramel lab puppies from the Barksdale litter, are particularly striking with their deep ebony fur. They exude elegance and charm while having a playful nature characteristic of the Labradoodle breed. Like those of old puppies, their gorgeous fleece coats are soft to the touch and make them stand out from the crowd. Chocolate Labradoodles, also known as red caramel Labradoodles, have a rich brown color that is simply irresistible. Their curly or wavy coats add extra cuteness to their already adorable appearance. Cream Labradoodles, also known as Ald puppies, have a gentle hue ranging from pale ivory to creamy white. This light color gives them an angelic look that is hard to resist. They often have luscious fleece coats that are visually appealing and incredibly soft. These caramel-colored dogs are hypoallergenic and make for a beautiful litter. Apricot Labradoodles are a joy to be around, with warm golden tones similar to ripe apricots. These lovable companions often sport curly or wavy coats, adding an extra layer of charm. Their vibrant red caramel color is allergenic and often found in miniature sizes. Red Labradoodles, including male and female puppies from the Barksdale litter, showcase a fiery shade ranging from deep mahogany to vibrant copper-red hues. This eye-catching color makes them stand out in any crowd, while their curly or wavy coats give them a touch of elegance. Unique Markings and Patterns In addition to the solid coat colors mentioned above, Labradoodles can have gorgeous fleece coats with unique markings that make them even more special. Some Labradoodles may exhibit parti or phantom patterns, like red caramel or Barksdale, which add a touch of individuality to their appearance. Parti Labradoodles have a coat of two distinct colors, typically white combined with another color, such as black, chocolate, red, caramel, or apricot. These striking markings create a captivating contrast that turns heads wherever they go. The gorgeous fleece coats of these miniature Barksdale Labradoodles make them even more eye-catching. Phantom Labradoodles, known for their gorgeous fleece coats, have a base color that is usually one of the solid patterns mentioned earlier black, chocolate, red caramel. They then have specific body areas marked with another color like cream or apricot. This creates an intriguing and eye-catching look that differentiates them from other Labradoodles in the litter. Barksdale is a breeder that specializes in miniature phantom Labradoodles. Some Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles puppies are born with lighter shades and gradually develop into their final color over time. This adds an element of surprise and excitement for new owners who watch their furry friends with gorgeous fleece coats transform before their eyes. Different coat colors of Labradoodles, like the litter at Barksdale, may require specific grooming techniques. For example, a female miniature Labradoodle with a darker-colored coat may benefit from regular brushing to prevent matting and maintain shine. On the other hand, lighter-colored pups might need extra care to avoid staining from dirt or outdoor activities. Regular grooming sessions for your small, medium verified, multi-gen Australian Labradoodles from Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles help keep them looking fabulous and contribute to their overall health and well-being. Establishing a grooming routine early on is essential so your pup with gorgeous fleece coats becomes accustomed to it and enjoys the bonding experience between you both. These adorable furry companions with gorgeous fleece coats come in different sizes, allowing potential owners to choose the one that best fits their lifestyle and living arrangements. Miniature Labradoodles: Small but Mighty Miniature Labradoodles are the smaller version of this popular mixed breed. Weighing between 15 to 30 pounds, these pint-sized female pups bring much love into a compact package. Despite their small stature, they possess all the wonderful qualities of their larger counterparts. Barksdale is known for producing litters of these adorable pups with gorgeous fleece coats. Mini Labradoodles are known for being friendly, intelligent, and highly trainable. They make excellent family pets due to their gentle nature and ability to get along well with children and other animals. Their small size makes them suitable for apartments or homes with limited space. Additionally, Mini Labradoodles have gorgeous fleece coats that are both stylish and practical. Whether you have a litter of puppies or a single female dog, Barksdale Mini Labradoodles are a great choice for a loving and lovable companion. One advantage of choosing a mini Labradoodle is its lower exercise requirements than standard Labradoodles. This can be ideal for individuals or families who may not have the time or energy for extensive exercise routines. Additionally, mini Labradoodles have gorgeous fleece coats that require regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. Standard Labradoodles: Big Hearts in Big Bodies On the other end of the spectrum, we have standard Labradoodles — larger versions of this lovable breed. Ranging from 45 to pounds in weight, these big-hearted dogs offer plenty of snuggles and companionship. These dogs are known for their fleece coats and are available in male and female varieties. Despite their size, standard Labradoodles, like the litter of female Labradoodles from the Barksdale line, share many similar traits with their miniature counterparts. They are known for being affectionate, friendly, and highly intelligent. Their friendly disposition makes them excellent family pets, and their larger size can be an advantage for families with older children who enjoy rough-and-tumble play. They have higher energy levels and benefit from regular physical activity to keep them mentally stimulated and physically fit. Daily walks, runs, or engaging in activities like agility training can help meet their exercise needs. Choosing the Right Size for You Deciding between a small, medium, or standard Australian Labradoodle depends on your lifestyle and living arrangements. Here are a few factors to consider when choosing between Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles: the size of the litter, whether you prefer a male or female, and if you want a multi-gen or verified Labradoodle. Space: If you live in an apartment or have limited outdoor space, a mini Labradoodle may be a better fit due to their smaller size. Family Dynamics: Consider the age of your children and whether they prefer a smaller or larger dog for playtime. Exercise Commitment: Assess how much time you can dedicate to exercising your furry friend daily. Labradoodle Puppies for Sale in Michigan By considering these factors, such as the size and generation of the Australian Labradoodle, you can determine whether a small, medium, or standard Labradoodle from Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles is the right choice for you. Labradoodle Energy Levels and Temperament Labradoodles, including those from the Barksdale line, are known for their energetic nature and friendly temperament. They make great pets for families and are highly sought after. They have high energy levels and require regular exercise to prevent boredom. Daily walks, playtime in the yard, or engaging in interactive games like fetch can help keep them mentally stimulated and physically fit. Labradoodles are known for their litter size and can be found at Barksdale. Labradoodles may become restless without adequate exercise and exhibit destructive behavior such as chewing furniture or excessive barking. Providing them with outlets for their energy is essential to ensure they lead a happy and well-balanced life. Litter and Barksdale are the keywords. Energetic but Adaptable to Different Activity Levels While Labradoodles are generally energetic dogs but also adaptable to different activity levels, this makes them suitable for various households with different lifestyles or physical limitations. Labradoodles are a great choice for families looking for an active dog and adaptable to different living situations. For families who enjoy an active lifestyle, Labradoodles can be excellent companions for outdoor activities such as hiking or running. They will happily join you on litter adventures and keep up with your pace at Barksdale. However, Labradoodles can also adjust well to less active households. As long as they receive regular exercise, they can adapt to a more relaxed routine without becoming restless or anxious. Additionally, Labradoodles are known for being low-litter dogs, making them a great choice for those with allergies. Generally Friendly Towards Children, Other Pets, and Strangers One of the most appealing traits of Labradoodles is their friendly nature towards children, other pets, strangers, and litter. Their friendly temperament makes them great family pets who get along well with everyone, including Barksdale. Labradoodles, including the Barksdale variety, are known for being patient and gentle with children. They make great playmates for kids of all ages. Labradoodles often form strong bonds with their human family members and show affectionate behavior towards them. Additionally, they are less likely to litter. Labradoodles, including those from Barksdale, are generally friendly and accepting. Proper socialization allows them to peacefully coexist with cats, other dogs, or smaller animals without litter issues. Labradoodles, a crossbreed of Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, are known for their peaceful nature towards strangers. Although they may initially show caution, Labradoodles are not typically aggressive and can warm up to new people once properly introduced. This friendly temperament makes them popular for families with children and other pets. Additionally, Labradoodles are low-shedding and hypoallergenic, making them an ideal choice for individuals with allergies or sensitivities to dog hair. Labradoodles, a crossbreed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, can exhibit various traits from both parent breeds. The Barksdale Labradoodle litter showcases the unique characteristics of these hybrid dogs. While most Labradoodles inherit the friendly and pleasant nature of their parent breeds, there can be variations in temperament within the same litter. The Barksdale Labradoodle is popular for families seeking a friendly and sociable companion. When choosing a Labradoodle puppy, it is advisable to spend time with the small, medium, verified, multi-gen Australian Labradoodles parents from Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles to get an idea of their temperament. This can provide some insight into what you might expect from their offspring. With proper care and attention, including a healthy diet, regular exercise, routine veterinary check-ups, and a loving environment, these adorable puppies will be your loyal companions for many joyful years. Proper care for your small to medium-sized, multi-gen Australian Labradoodle includes keeping up with vaccinations, providing safe living space, and monitoring their overall health. Regular visits to the verified Australian Labradoodle breeder, Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles, will ensure that potential health issues are caught early on and treated promptly. By following these guidelines, you can help maximize the lifespan of your beloved black Labradoodle puppy from a trusted litter of Australian Labradoodles. Grooming keeps your Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodle looking their best and maintains the health of their fur. It is important to establish a grooming routine early on so that your pup becomes comfortable with the process and ensures the well-being of the litter. Brushing is one of the key aspects of grooming for Labradoodles. This breed has hair that grows continuously rather than shedding like other dogs. Brushing helps prevent matting and tangling of their fur, which can lead to discomfort or even skin issues if left unattended. A slicker brush or comb designed for curly coats will keep their hair tangle-free. Grooming your Labradoodle to keep it litter-free and healthy regularly is important. Barksdale Labradoodles are known for their beautiful curly coats, so proper brushing is essential to maintain their appearance. Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles recommends this grooming routine for their labradoodle puppies. While regular at-home grooming is crucial for your small, medium verified multi-gen Australian Labradoodle puppy from Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles, there may be times when professional grooming becomes necessary. The frequency of professional grooming will depend on factors such as the texture of their coat, their activity level, and your personal preferences. Professional groomers at Barksdale Authentic Australian Labradoodles have the expertise to give your Labradoodle a thorough trim or haircut, ensuring their coat remains manageable and free from excessive matting. Labradoodle Puppies for Sale in Georgia Generally, it is recommended to take your Australian Labradoodle puppy from Barksdale for professional grooming every few months. However, this can vary depending on individual needs. Some owners of Australian Labradoodles may opt for more frequent visits to maintain a specific hairstyle or if their dog spends a lot of time outdoors and gets dirty easily. Remember that grooming is not just about aesthetics; it plays a vital role in keeping your Australian Labradoodles healthy and comfortable. So, whether you groom them at home or seek professional assistance, regular care is essential for your Australian Labradoodle litter to ensure they look and feel their best. Adaptability and Intelligence of Labradoodles Highly Adaptable Companions Labradoodle puppies for sale are highly adaptable dogs that can thrive in various environments, including bustling cities like Barksdale or quiet countryside. These intelligent dogs can easily adjust to their surroundings, making them an excellent choice for families with varying lifestyles. Their versatile nature allows them to adapt to different living conditions, making them a great fit for any litter. One of the reasons Labradoodles are so adaptable is their mixed heritage. As a crossbreed between Labrador Retrievers and Poodles, Labradoodles inherit desirable traits from both parent breeds, such as litter friendliness and Barksdale intelligence. Labradors are known for their friendly and outgoing nature, while Poodles bring intelligence and versatility. This combination results in Labradoodles being well-suited for different types of households. Whether you have an active lifestyle or prefer a more relaxed pace, Labradoodles can keep up with your needs. They enjoy going on long walks, playing fetch at the park, or simply cuddling on the couch with their owners. Labradoodles are also great travel companions and can easily adapt to new environments such as hotels or vacation rentals. Labradoodles are known for their low litter size, and the Barksdale line is particularly popular among dog enthusiasts. Intelligent Dogs with Trainable Minds Australian Labradoodle puppies for sale rank high among dog breeds. These intelligent Australian Labradoodles possess a remarkable ability to learn quickly and retain information. Their trainability makes them ideal candidates for obedience training, agility competitions, and other activities that require mental stimulation. Barksdale Australian Labradoodles are known for their intelligence and trainability. Labradoodles excel in obedience training, including litter training and Barksdale training. They thrive on positive reinforcement methods and respond well when rewarded for good behavior. With consistent training sessions and patience from their owners, Labradoodles can quickly pick up commands such as sit, stay, heel, and come. In addition to obedience training, Labradoodles also enjoy participating in agility courses. Their athleticism, combined with their intelligence, allows them to navigate through obstacle courses with ease. Whether jumping over hurdles, weaving through poles, or maneuvering tunnels, Labradoodles excel in agility training. Mental Stimulation for a Happy Labradoodle Labradoodles, like the ones from Barksdale, are quick learners who enjoy mental stimulation. Engaging their minds is essential to keep them happy and stimulated and prevent boredom-related behaviors such as excessive barking or destructive chewing. There are various ways to provide mental stimulation for your labradoodle litter. These toys challenge their problem-solving skills and often have hidden treats or compartments to access. Interactive Games: Play interactive games with your Australian Labradoodles, such as hide-and-seek or treasure hunts around the house or yard. This stimulates their mind and strengthens the bond between you and your furry friend. Barksdale Labradoodles are especially known for their love of interactive games. Training Sessions: Continue training sessions with Australian Labradoodles beyond basic obedience commands. Teach your Australian Labradoodles new tricks or enroll them in advanced training classes at Barksdale, where they can learn complex tasks. Scent Work: Labradoodles, known for their excellent sense of smell, can be highly stimulated by litter scent work activities. Hide treats around the house or play scent-based games to tap into their natural abilities. Barksdale Labradoodles are particularly adept at scent work. With high energy, this breed is not for the faint of heart. While your Mini Labradoodle will be perfectly content to snuggle up on the couch with you, he needs rigorous exercise to ensure optimal health. Thanks to their Poodle ancestry, our Mini Labradoodles are whip smart — making them a breeze to train with positive reinforcement — but this is tempered by the easygoing nature of the standard Labrador. Sociable and friendly, our Mini Labradoodles for sale get along well with other dogs — but their high energy may make them a bit too exuberant when it comes to play! Mini Labradoodle Puppies Health Considerations Every breed of dog comes with its own unique health considerations. Though generally healthy and long lived — with an average lifespan of 12 to 14 years — our Mini Labradoodle puppies for sale are no exception. This will help you quickly identify symptoms and seek immediate treatment should an issue arise. They can also be short, dense, and sometimes harsh in texture, more similar to the Labrador. Like all doodles, Mini Labradoodles come with a range of coat varieties. Some take more after their Labrador parent—with straighter coats—and others have the tight ringlets of their Poodle parent. Most will fall somewhere in between, and nearly all Mini Labradoodle puppies have coats with minimal shedding. Initially, you will need to brush your Mini Labradoodle puppy around four times a week until his coat is established — at around eight to 12 months, you can reduce this to three times a week. You can take your Mini Labradoodle pup to the groomer for a trim between two and four times a year — with many owners opting for seasonal cuts — but should wait until your pup sheds his baby fur before taking him for his first cut! Meet Mini Labradoodle Puppies for Sale. Life Span Did You Know? A Labradoodle is a popular designer dog breed. It is a cross between a Standard Poodle and a Labrador Retriever. This designer dog breed originated in Australia around .The main goal of the Labradoodle was to create a hypoallergenic guide dog for people living with disabilities who were also allergic to dog fur and dander. Now, they are still a popular choice for service, guide, and therapy dogs and are also a popular companion dog. Labrador Retrievers and Poodles are both friendly, gentle, intelligent, and affectionate dog breeds. The Labradoodle tends to be similar. They are open and friendly and crave human attention and affection. They are happiest when they are with people. Labradoodles also tend to have an energetic and playful personality. They get along well with children, other dogs, other pets, and strangers. They are alert enough to bark or let you know when someone is at the door, but they are not generally good watchdogs or guard dogs as they are more interested in making friends. A Labradoodle is a highly adaptable dog breed. They do very well in homes with space to run and they can adapt well to apartment living as long as they are given plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They also do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to extreme heat and cold. Because they enjoy being around people, they do not generally like to be left alone for long periods of time. They can also become bored if not given enough attention, exercise, or mental stimulation, which can result in destructive behavior. This dog breed is generally healthy, but they do have the chance of inheriting common health conditions from both of the parent breeds. Some health conditions to be aware of include elbow and hip dysplasia, ear infections, progressive retinal atrophy, hypothyroidism, and epilepsy. Good breeding practices can reduce the likelihood of passing on many of these health issues. Be sure to talk with the breeder about the genetic history of the parents and ask to see any health clearances; this can help allay potential health concerns. A Labradoodle tends to be eager to please and highly intelligent, which makes them highly trainable. They are a good fit for dog owners of any experience level. As with most dog breeds, Labradoodles respond best to training that is consistent and uses positive reinforcement. There are some grooming tasks that are common to every dog breed. When it comes to coat care, it can vary with a Labradoodle. Poodles have a low-shedding coat that is also high maintenance in terms of brushing, trimming, and professional grooming. Labs tend to have a higher shedding coat that needs minimal brushing and grooming. For the most part, a Labradoodle will have a low or non-shedding coat that will need to be brushed a few times a week. But, they can have a higher shedding coat should they take after their Labrador parent. You may also need a few professional grooming sessions throughout the year. Nail trimming once a month is usually enough to keep movement comfortable and prevent longer nails from snagging on things. Proper dental care for your dog will help prevent gum disease and tooth decay. Drop-down ears are more prone to infection because floppy ears are more likely to trap moisture, dirt, and debris. This will make grooming throughout their life a much more enjoyable process for both you and your dog. It can even become a bonding time for you both as well. Labradoodles tend to be high-energy dogs. They require a few daily walks plus some time to run and play in order to stay happy and healthy. They certainly love to play and you may tire out before they do sometimes. They may calm down a little as they get to be a couple of years old, but they tend to be quite energetic as puppies. Going swimming with your dog , taking a hike with them, going on a trip to the dog park, playing a game of fetch, and more are all great supplemental activities to ensure your Labradoodle gets plenty of exercise. You can even train them to compete in dog sports like dock diving, flyball, agility, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Labradoodle will usually stand between 21 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder and weigh between 50 and 65 pounds. Labradoodles generally live 12 — 14 years. However, it did not become popular until when the mix was specifically bred to create hypoallergenic guide dogs. Featured Labradoodle Article. Life Span Did You Know? Second-generation crosses could include a Labradoodle and a Mini Poodle or two Mini Labradoodles as parents. This hybrid dog breed was originally developed to create smaller potential service dogs that might be a good fit for people with allergies to dog fur. With a mixed breed, you can end up with any combination of traits from the parent breeds. Often, Mini Labradoodles are smart, friendly, and sociable dogs that are highly trainable. They are often found working as service dogs and therapy dogs and living as beloved family companions. Although they are not recognized by the AKC, the Mini Labradoodle is recognized by other canine registries. A Mini Labradoodle is a combination of two friendly dog breeds that crave human affection and are always happy to have company. These dogs also tend to have playful, energetic personalities and low prey drives. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Due to their smaller size, these dogs can be injured by accidental rough play or accidental falls, so any interactions between young kids and puppies should be closely supervised. Miniature Labradoodles will usually bark to alert you when someone is at the door, but generally are not prone to nuisance barking unless they have been trained into it. It may not be a bad idea to train your dog to stop barking early on. Well-socialized Mini Labradoodles may be initially wary of strangers, but tend to warm up quickly and will often be happy to make a new friend. Miniature Labradoodles are highly adaptable. Provided they get enough exercise, attention, and mental stimulation, they can adapt well to apartments as well as larger homes. They tend to do best in moderate climates, but can tolerate warmer or colder climates. As with any dog, they are sensitive to heat. Although they tend to have a fluffier coat, they are also smaller and may need to bundle up in some winter dog products to stay warm while out on walks in the cold. Mini Labradoodles are also very much companion breeds. They bond closely with their families and thrive on being near them, so they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. The health of the parents and good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of Mini Labradoodle puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you are asking the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done to help allay any concerns you may have. Miniature Labradoodles tend to be highly intelligent and eager to please. This generally makes them easy to train and a good fit for owners of all experience levels. In fact, their parent breeds are considered some of the best dog breeds for first-time owners. These dogs respond best to consistent training and positive reinforcement. Puppy training classes can ensure that owners of any experience level learn the latest training techniques and start building a strong bond with their puppy. Grooming requirements with a Mini Labradoodle can vary. On the Poodle side, you have a low-shedding, but high-maintenance, coat that needs daily brushing along with trimming and grooming every weeks. On the Lab side, you have a higher shedding coat that is more low-maintenance, requiring some weekly brushing or brushing a few times a week and intermittent bathing. Overall, Mini Labradoodles range from having a non- to low-shedding coat. They can have one coat type or the other, or a combination of both of them. So, you will want to be prepared for brushing a coat a few times a week and the possibility of more grooming needs. Regardless of coat type, there are some other general grooming tasks you can count on. Regular dental care for your dog will help prevent serious dental issues like gum disease and tooth decay later in life. This is especially important for dog breeds with floppy ears as they are more prone to developing ear infections. Miniature Labradoodles can be high-energy dogs. In general, they require daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity to be happy and healthy. Since they love to be around their family and can have an exuberant and outgoing personality, they will likely be up for more playtime if you are. This little dog may get tired more easily at times and could push themselves too far in their excitement. On the other hand, they may just keep going and going with no signs of slowing down. What is most important is making sure your Miniature Labradoodle gets enough exercise and mental stimulation. Fully-grown Mini Labradoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Miniature Labradoodles generally live for years on average. Featured Mini Labradoodle Article.

Poodles are amazing canines, capable of high intelligence , strong loyalty and having a range of emotions. Just like people, Poodles can feel sad, depressed, excited, happy, bored, overwhelmed.The Poodle is known for being one of the most intelligent dog breeds in the world within the top 5 with a unique temperament. Being so elegant, particularly the show dog, many people do not realize just how friendly and "people orientated" a pet Poodle is. They love human companionship, love to play and are truly a fantastic canine family member. Along with each Poodle having their own unique personality, owners find that their Poodle can also have some odd or particular habits or behaviors. Let's take a look at some of the behaviors of this breed and whether one should be concerned.Sleep Puppies - Poodle puppies up the age of 8 months can sleep anywhere from 15 to 20 hours per day! Their sleeping needs will decrease with age. With puppies, it is very normal to sleep quite a bit and to be extremely active while awake. It is normal for Poodles to take naps. Dogs that are left home alone during the day for more than 3 hours will usually take many more naps than ones that have companionship during the day. Senior Poodles - Senior dogs will sleep more often and naps will increase as the dog grows older. A Toy Poodle is considered to be a senior at the age of 10, a Miniature Poodle at the age of years and a Standard Poodle at 7 years old. It is important to allow an older dog to take naps whenever they wish and not to "push" playing or exercise on them. While daily walks are still very important to health, do allow a senior to rest when needed. Most Common Behaviors Seen There are many stages that a Poodle puppy enters during this fast time of growth and development. Some stages happen so fast, you can see your Poodle changing right before your eyes! Other behaviors can be present for the dog's entire life.Let's take a look at what is normal behavior for a Poodle puppy , adolescent and adult dog.The Hyper Poodle Puppy - This phase will last from 8 weeks to approximately 1 year. It will be normal for your puppy to have an abundance of energy! Poodle puppies will want to play from daybreak to nightfall. It is normal for a pup to run around the home, investigate every object they can get their mouths on and generally wear you out! Do keep in mind that a puppy will want to chew on everything, well before teething even begins. Be sure to puppy proof the house can use firm training if your Poodle is not listening to commands. Read more about how to help a hyper Poodle. The Clingy Poodle - Some Poodles can be rather shy and may wish to stay very close to an owners as opposed to venturing out even a bit to interact with others or to independently play. Over time, this can be wearing on owners and does not allow the dog to have a quality life that is full with exploration and self-confidence. Read more about what to do if a Poodle is clingy. This can be negative or positive. Some Poodles have Separation Anxiety, a term used when a dog has a difficult time coping with being home alone. Dogs who feel this way may become so happy when their owners return home that they loose control of their bladder. Since we can't be with our Poodles every moment although we wish we could , you may wish to read the separation anxiety section. The Chewing Machine - As mentioned above, puppies have an almost uncontrollable instinct to chew on everything that they can find. This is actually a very important stage, as it is a learning stage. An owner must keep the home "puppy proofed", however at the same time one must allow a puppy to explore their world, both inside and outside of the home. When teething begins, this can be an especially trying time. You may wish to read more about this in the teething section. Nipping - Nipping can become a bad habit, if training is not given to show a Poodle that nipping is not acceptable. This can interfere with many aspects, including having your dog behave when company comes over or when your dog is playing with children. Puppies naturally nip because this is the 1st form of play that a puppy learns. It will be the owners job to show their Poodle was is and what is not acceptable so that you do not have a nipping adult dog! You may wish to read more in the temperament section. Jumping on People - This comes from a good place, a Poodle that jumps up to say hello just has a lot of enthusiasm in their greetings. But, this can quickly become frustrating behavior. Read how to allow your Poodle to release pent up energy and learn self control when saying hello: When a Poodle Jumps on People. It's important to deal with this sort of behavior at the onset to correct things quickly. Learn more in the Poodle Growling section. Marking - Marking is different than having housebreaking accidents. With this, a Poodle will spray urine in the house to mark his or her territory. And the reasons behind this can be triggering very strong canine instincts. Fortunately, there are ways to stop a Poodle from marking , by using a combination of establishing proper hierarchy and responding to this in the right way. Coprophagia - Commonly known as eating feces , this is a disturbing behavior that is not uncommon with all varieties of Poodles. A dog may ingest his own poop, that of another dog or even cat feces from the litter box. Learn what can prompt a puppy or dog to do this and steps you can take to stop this. Begging - Dogs that have learned the art of begging can be relentless. If you find yourself giving in, these tips to stop a Poodle from begging can stop this behavior and lead to less stress for both you and your puppy or dog. Disobedience - Poodles can have independent streaks and if care is not taken to teach rules and guidelines, there can be issues with no obeying. Read how to address a Poodle that won't listen to turn things around. See also: Chewing and Licking at Paws - There are several route causes for this. Read how to limit this and at-home remedies to stop itching and possible inflammation. Poodle is humping a lot - This sort of behavior can come from Poodles of any age and even from those that are fixed. Why a dog does this and helpful advice regarding how to stop a Poodle from doing this. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. They have a distinctive thick, curly coat that comes in many colors and patterns, with only solid colors recognized by breed registries. Poodles are active and intelligent, and are particularly able to learn from humans. Poodles tend to live 10—18 years, with smaller varieties tending to live longer than larger ones. Similar dogs date back to at least the 17th century. Larger Poodles were originally used by wildfowl hunters to retrieve game from water, while smaller varieties were once commonly used as circus performers. Since the midth century, Poodles have enjoyed enormous popularity as pets and show dogs — Poodles were the AKC's most registered breed from to , and are now the FCI's third most registered breed. Poodles are also common at dog shows, where they often sport the popularly recognized Continental clip, with face and rear clipped close, and tufts of hair on the hocks and tail tip. History A 17th-century engraving of a Poodle Most cynologists believe the Poodle originated in Germany in the Middle Ages , from a dog similar to today's Standard Poodle. Numerous works by various German artists from as early as the 17th century depict dogs of recognisably Poodle type. As new breeding practices were adopted, the variety became set as a toy-sized replica of the original. Not universally recognised by the world's kennel clubs , the Medium Poodle is recognised by the FCI and most Continental European kennel clubs. A pet owner can anticipate grooming a Poodle every four to eight weeks. Their individual hair follicles have an active growth period that is longer than that of many other breeds; combined with the tightly curled coat, which slows the loss of dander and dead hair by trapping it in the curls, an individual Poodle may release less dander and hair into the environment. However, researchers have generally not found a difference in allergens across breeds. The FCI additionally recognizes the Scandinavian clip. Poodle hair can also be "corded" with rope-like mats similar to those of a Komondor or human dreadlocks. Though once as common as the curly Poodle, corded Poodles are now rare. Corded coats are difficult to keep clean and take a long time to dry after washing. They were common historically, but became less popular in the early s, and are excluded from many registries. Phantom Poodles may also have a full face of the secondary color.

Will my dog get sick from eating poop? Poop eating can definitely be a concern to a pet owner since it can make your dog sick. If your dog is eating its own poop, itmay be OK, but there is still a chance of illness. Especially if your dog is eating the poop of another dog or animal, there is a large risk of infectious diseases or parasites. Some symptoms of poop eating include gastroenteritis, vomiting and diarrhea, decreased appetite, tiredness and intestinal parasites , according to Muenster Milling. Consult your veterinarian if your dog has eaten poop and is experiencing any behavioral changes or symptoms. How often should I take my dog to the vet? And how to know if your pet needs a checkup How can I keep my dog from eating poop? To curb your pup from eating poop, you may consider vitamin or enzyme supplements. These can help if your dog is eating poop due to a lack of certain nutrients, such as vitamin B, says the AKC. There are also various deterrents on the market, which make poop less appetizing to your dog. Other methods to stop your dog from eating poop include training, — using commands like "leave it,' — keeping a close eye during walks and cleaning up poop immediately. Understanding why your puppy eats stool and learning how to address this behavior appropriately will help prevent it from becoming a lifelong habit. So … why do puppies eat poop? If your puppy consistently ingests stool, talk with your veterinarian. There are many possible reasons for a puppy to eat poop, and knowing if the cause is medical, behavioral, or a combination of both can help you eradicate the behavior successfully. This is a primitive, evolutionary behavior that developed to keep the den clean and protect the puppies from disease, parasites, and predators. The smell from large amounts of stool accumulating in a den would certainly draw unwanted attention! This behavior can sometimes be thwarted by picking up any stool the puppies produce before they have the chance to snack on it. Puppies Eat Poop Because of Poor Digestion Another theory behind coprophagia is that some puppies develop the habit after not digesting their food well. If food is digested poorly, this might cause portions of the stool to have the same smell and taste as their puppy food. This similarity may inspire some puppies to eat the stool. Causes of poor digestion can be diet formulation, parasites, or abnormalities in the digestive tract. Boredom and Stress Can Cause Puppies To Eat Poop Puppies with inconsistent socialization and activity can develop many bad habits in an effort to entertain themselves or feel more in control of their environment. Though chewing on crates and furniture is more common, some puppies might eat their poop. Consistent, frequent playtime and interaction is important to help prevent this unwanted behavior. If your schedule requires your puppy to be alone for extended periods of time, talk to your veterinarian about age-safe dog toys that will keep them entertained and stress-free. Growing puppies require many more calories than adult dogs and should be fed a diet specifically designed for their needs. Young puppies should be fed three or four times a day on a consistent schedule. If you have questions about how much or how often you should feed your puppy, talk to your veterinarian. Your veterinarian can look for evidence of intestinal parasites through fecal testing. Puppies Eat Poop To Get Your Attention Getting upset and yelling at your puppy is a very common reaction when you see them doing something as gross as eating poop. Therefore, punishment tactics should never be used with puppies to help with house-training or stool-eating. Instead, put effort into praising good behaviors like when your puppy poops outside. When a puppy poops on the floor, ignore them and just clean it up well. When they potty outside, praise them. Your puppy will learn that they get attention for pooping outside, not for pooping inside and eating it. How To Stop a Puppy From Eating Poop If your puppy has already developed a poop-snacking habit and they have no physical abnormalities or illness, the following tips may help stop the yucky behavior. Watch for signs of digestive issues: Vomiting, diarrhea, and passing undigested food may be signs that your puppy is not digesting their food appropriately. Make Sure Your Puppy Gets Enough Exercise and Attention Exercise and play are essential for a happy puppy, and providing consistent opportunities to engage their mind and their muscles will make them less likely to develop undesirable habits. When you have to leave your puppy alone, consider age-appropriate and non-destructible chew toys or puzzle toys to entertain them. Cleaning up stool promptly can help them avoid temptation. After your puppy poops, distract them from their stool by calling them to you. A puppy who successfully comes when called and ignores their stool should be rewarded, either verbally or with training treats. Bring your puppy inside, if possible, before removing the stool to avoid drawing attention back to the location. Keep Your Puppy on a Leash For puppies that cannot be easily distracted from their stool, leashes can be an effective tool to keep them walking away after they have defecated. It can also keep them away from the stool of other dogs or other animals. While verbal commands and recall are always preferred, a gentle tug on the leash can help distract them from the stool initially. But, like in puppies, it may be a reaction to anxiety or boredom. If no medical cause for the coprophagy is found, use the same techniques described above for your adult dog. Help us make PetMD better Was this article helpful? We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. From eating that week old sandwich they found on the sidewalk to spending hours of their life licking their own butt, dogs do plenty of things that us humans find disgusting. No matter which way you look at it, the eating of feces is plain revolting. Many dogs, however, seem to consider it a fine delicacy! If your dog likes to chow down on poop at any opportunity, you might be concerned, and understandably so. Nobody seems to be percent sure exactly why they do it, but there are plenty of theories. The good news is there are ways to discourage your dog from eating poop. The bad news is it can be a tricky habit to break percent. If you live out in the country, you might find poop-eating more of a problem. This means more temptation for your dog and more likelihood that they make poop a regular snack. Why do Dogs Eat Poop? Are There Any Medical Reasons? Dogs Naturally suggests a number of medical reasons why dogs consume feces. Parasites Internal parasites, such as worms , leach the nutrients that your dog should be getting from their food. This could make them crave anything that might contain the nutrients they require. Or, more simply, it could make them more hungry and want to eat anything available. As such, if a dog eats their own feces, it could be because it contains lots of undigested nutrients. There are all kinds of medical reasons why a dog could have an increased appetite, from thyroid issues to being on prescribed steroids. Giving your dog a bit of extra breakfast or dinner could discourage your pup from their poop-eating ways. Malabsorption A number of malabsorption syndromes, such as exocrine pancreatic insufficiency , have been known to cause dogs to eat feces. Deficiencies There are certain deficiencies some experts believe could lead to a propensity to eat stool. Roger DeHaan, DVM , says a hydrochloric acid deficiency could cause poor digestion and ultimately make dogs eat feces. Whereas Joseph Demers, DVM, suggests that a deficiency in trace minerals might lead to poop eating in dogs. This could be a result of underfeeding or feeding your dog a poor diet. Make sure your dog is getting sufficient calories for their age, weight and activity level, and feed a high-quality food containing sufficient nutrients. Why do Dogs Eat Poop: Possible Behavioral Reasons Along with the medical reasons listed above, there are all kinds of behavioral reasons why a dog might take a fancy to feces. Dogs are natural scavengers and they look for food wherever they go. In the wild, this would have been to keep their den clean and avoid attracting predators with the smell. Some dogs may pick up this desire to keep their area clean and eating poop out in the garden could be a form of housekeeping. Attention Seeking Much like children, dogs who are bored, lonely or just wanting some love will sometimes do things to get attention, even if the attention they get is negative. They may have the opposite of the desired effect or cause other behavior problems. If your dog has been punished in the past for defecating indoors, if they have an accident, they might eat their feces to hide the evidence, as it were. If they start doing this regularly, it could become a habit and they could start eating other poop at other times. Boredom Dogs who are home alone all day can, understandably, get bored. They might find that eating poop is just something to do, and they get a snack out of it, too. Learned Behaviors Dogs are pack animals and learn things from their canine companions. If they spend time with another dog that thinks dung is a delicacy, they may simply learn it from them. Dogs have very different ideas from us about what they think is tasty. You only have to take a big whiff of their favorite dog food to figure that one out. So, is eating poop dangerous for dogs? Other than the fact the idea of it is rather cringe-worthy, that is. However, she does go on to say there are risks your dog could contract a parasite from eating poo. In most cases, however, dogs who eat poop never develop any issues from doing so. If you think your dog has contracted a parasite or other medical issue from eating feces, contact your vet to get them checked out. How you get your dog to stop eating poop depends on why they do it in the first place. Change Their Diet As mentioned earlier in this post, a poor diet could cause your dog to want to supplement it with a little something extra. Make sure you always pick up after your dog as soon as they go. And, if you have cats, keep their litter tray clean at all times. The main issue comes if your dog likes to eat wild animal feces out on walks. You might do one stage per day or it might take several days for your dog to get the hang of each stage. Keep your training sessions to no more than ten minutes at a go, as your dog will lose focus and you might start getting frustrated. Using high-value treats can make the lesson sink in that much quicker. Extend your treat-holding hand toward your dog. At this point, your dog will probably try to get it from you in various ways; trying to grab it, licking it, nibbling it, trying to give you their paw, and so on. As soon as your dog either stops and move their nose back from the treat or turning their head away, give them the treat and some praise. Remember to give a treat and a good dose of praise every time. This way your pup will build an association between the action and the command. Repeat this a few times, continuing to give praise and treats. Place a treat in both hands. One in a closed hand, behind your back, and one in a palm opened upwards. Move the treat-holding palm toward your dog so they can see it and smell it. Because the treat is fully visible, it might be tougher for your dog to resist. From this point, you must always give them a reward from elsewhere, not the one that you asked them to leave. Repeat this until your dog gets it right the first time, every time. Have a treat ready in your hand as a reward. Just go back to the third stage and give them some more practice. Once again, practice this stage once your dog is getting it right. But you do have to be around to tell your dog to leave it. In the majority of cases, however, your dog eating poop is more disgusting than it is dangerous. It is not intended to be nor can it be considered actionable professional advice. It must not be used as an alternative to seeking professional advice from a veterinarian or other certified professional. Please consult a professional before taking any course of action with any medical, health or behavioral related issue. 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. Reasons Dogs Eat Poop Nutritional Deficiencies A dog may eat poop because they are missing important nutrients in their own diet or they are not properly absorbing certain nutrients in their food during digestion called malabsorption. One study found that dogs whose diets were deficient in thiamine vitamin B1 developed coprophagia. If your veterinarian suspects deficiencies, they will run specific tests not included in a usual wellness blood panel. Nutritional deficiencies are not common for dogs fed commercial diets, and are instead more common in dogs fed raw or homemade diets. Underlying Medical Issues If a dog suddenly begins to eat feces, it may be a sign of health conditions that cause increased appetite, such as diabetes, Cushing's disease, hypothyroidism, exocrine pancreatic insufficiency, or any gastrointestinal disease that causes malabsorption. Diseases that can lead to pica eating inappropriate things , such as liver disease and anemia, can result in coprophagia. Canine cognitive dysfunction "doggie dementia" can also contribute to this behavior. Intestinal Parasites Intestinal parasites like roundworms, hookworms, or whipworms, "steal" nutrients from your dog's diet, which can cause inflammation and malabsorption. That can then can lead to coprophagia. Anxiety Stool eating may be a symptom of underlying anxiety or stress in a dog. This may be separation anxiety or isolation distress, or a dog who is seeking to avoid punishment during potty training hiding the evidence! Hunger Eating stool may be a sign that a dog is simply hungry and seeking more calories. Dogs who are taking steroidal treatments, such as prednisone, often have a larger appetite and may begin to eat poop. Cleaning the "Den" When raising a litter of puppies, for the first few weeks after birth, a mother dog will lick the puppies' rears to stimulate bowel movements and then eat the puppies' feces. This is completely normal and expected behavior and is believed to happen due to their desire to keep the den area clean and protect against predators who may smell the poop and therefore find the den location. It Just Tastes Good! While we may automatically wrinkle our noses at the idea that our dogs just find poop tasty, it just may be that they like the taste. Feces is simply digested food. And if your dog is eating other dog or cat feces, to them, it's just another protein source! If they prefer horse or rabbit poop, perhaps they like the taste of digested plants. Inappropriate Association with Food This is related to the prior point about dogs liking the taste of feces. In some cases, a dog may associate poop with food because their eating area was located too close to their potty area during critical development phases. This can happen with dogs who spent a lot of time in confinement without a separate potty area, such as in puppy mills or an overcrowded shelter. Attention Seeking or Boredom Dogs learn quickly that eating poop is a surefire way of getting your attention, as when we see it happen, we tend to immediately respond by shouting and running after them. They may start repeating this behavior to get your attention and can even see it as a fun game to play when you're around. If a dog is bored, they may seek out things to indulge in, including finding and eating feces in the yard or taking on the challenge of accessing the cat's litter box for a snack. When eating poop, your dog has an increased risk for certain diseases, such as E. Consumption can increase their risks of intestinal parasite infection as well. There are even documented cases, albeit not common, of pets absorbing certain undigested medications from consuming poop. If your dog consumes their own or another household pet's poop but all are parasite-free, make sure they are on year-round preventatives and have regular fecal exams to ensure their continued health. Staying up-to-date on preventatives is also extremely important if your dog eats other dogs' feces at dog parks or on walks. You'll also want to consider that your dog puts their mouth on quite a lot of things in your home — not to mention that they probably lick your face or hands. If they eat poop, you're then also at risk of illness and disease transmission such as Salmonella and giardia. Speak with your veterinarian about your dog's poop-eating behavior. Ask them if they have recommendations on food or supplements to add to their diet. They may refer you to a veterinary nutritionist for further testing and treatment. The Solution: Prevent Poop Eating With Management The most effective thing you can do, no matter the reason your dog is eating poop, is to remove access to it. If they can't get to it, they can't eat it! How you do this depends on whose poop they are eating. Pick up Poop Right Away. For my dog, he prefers my older female dog's poop, but not his own. This means that I must be very quick to immediately bag up her poop when she goes. But I have more leeway when it comes to scooping his poop in the yard. Whenever we go out for a potty break in the yard, I make sure to have a bag ready in my pocket and keep a close eye on her to make sure I don't miss any droppings. Be prepared with your poop scooper or poo bags whenever you take your dogs outside. Keep Your Dog Out of the Litterbox. Block your dog's access to the cat's litterbox. Use gates or strategic locations for the litter box, and make sure to clean it regularly. Dogs are scavengers by nature, and "training" this out of them is a big ask. In some cases, managing their environment and using anti-scavenging tools solves the problem. But for extreme cases, while you work on teaching your dog to leave poop alone, invest in these tools to prevent them from practicing this unwanted behavior. Anti-scavenging muzzles. I recommend muzzle training for all dogs , but it's particularly useful for dogs who like to grab and eat feces. Choose a basket muzzle that is designed with a front guard, like this Baskerville Anti-Scavenge muzzle. The JAFCO muzzle is also a good option, or if you have a basket muzzle custom-made, make sure to choose a tightly woven front design. While a basket muzzle will still allow a dog to shove their snout into a pile of poo, ideally it will block actual ingestion. Just be ready with sani wipes and clean your muzzle after each use. For more tips on finding the right muzzle for your dog, check out my tips in "Choosing and Fitting a Basket Muzzle. An alternative to a basket muzzle, a product like the Outfox Field Guard prevents your dog from ingesting feces they find. However, just like a muzzle, your dog may still decide to smear poo all over it. But this product is especially useful if you live in an area where foxtails are prevalent. Use a head collar on walks. If your dog likes to treat your walk like a poop buffet, grazing on found poop along the way, walking them on a head collar, such as a Halti , can give you better control over where their nose goes. Using this walking gear, you can keep their nose up from the ground and prevent scavenging. This is usually my last recommendation, as sniffing is an essential activity for your dog to engage in every day. However, using a head collar for leash walking in areas where there is a lot of wildlife poop and then allowing them the freedom to sniff in "free-of-poop" areas is a good compromise. I only recommend using a head collar, if you can commit to spending lots of time conditioning your dog to wear it comfortably first. I do not recommend head collars for small dogs or dogs who pull or lunge on the leash, as the sudden torque on the neck can cause injury. To function properly, dogs need a balanced diet containing proteins, fats, carbohydrates, vitamins, and minerals that match their life stage. You want to feed a diet that is meat-based listed in the first two to three ingredients , but that also has a balance of carbohydrates vegetables, quality grains, and fruits. Feed Your Dog More Often Feeding your dog smaller meals more frequently throughout the day may help reduce hunger and scavenging behavior, which could be contributing to their coprophagia. Be aware that if you're still working on your dog's potty training, changing their meal frequency may affect how many times and the time they need to go 2 every day. Increase Mental Enrichment To reduce boredom and decrease stress, give your dog more brain games and mental enrichment. Licking, chewing, and sniffing are especially helpful for decompression and reducing anxiety. The easiest way to enrich your dog's life is to make every meal a brain or foraging activity. You can do this with a snuffle mat or puzzle feeder. There are tons of ways to increase enrichment, many of which don't involve more food. One thing to think about here is that typically we have to be present to say "leave it" for our dogs to actually be successful with this. Combine leave it practice with management and prevention techniques for true success. You can take the regular leave it cue to the next level by teaching an automatic leave it. This skill is difficult and takes quite a bit of practice! It can be done, but be aware that you are competing with a dog's natural instinct to scavenge. To introduce an automatic leave it, you'll want to make the presence of poo the cue for your dog, not your verbal "leave it. Approach a pile of poo, but don't allow your dog close enough to eat it. When they notice it, simply wait. When they turn their head away from or step away from the poop, say "yes! Repeat, repeat, repeat. This process takes time and lots of repetitions. It's best to work with a certified trainer on this skill, as this is what we consider a "college level" skill, and training needs to be tailored to each individual dog for the best success. In some cases, we may install a cue transfer, where we teach the dog to recall when they find poop or do an automatic check-in. It depends on the dog's foundational skills and the context that usually ends with poop eating. Poop Eating Deterrent Products There are a few different products available that claim to stop poop eating in dogs. Unfortunately, over-the-counter poop-eating deterrent products simply don't deliver on their promises. According to this study , there were "no successful results in treating coprophagy with any of the commercial products. First: speak with your veterinarian about what they may recommend and what, if any, ingredients may interact with any medications your dog is taking. I recommend first trying natural diet additives to balance your dog's gastrointestinal system prior to exploring commercial products. Natural Poop Eating Deterrents Pre and Probiotics: Providing your dog with a pre and probiotic enhances their digestion, nutrient absorption, and boosts their immune system. Use a multi-strain product with a high CFU per dose. See our veterinarian's top picks for probiotics here. Digestive enzymes: Consult with your veterinarian to determine if your dog needs digestive enzymes, which are typically only available by prescription. They can help improve the digestion and absorption of nutrients resulting in less palatable poop. Vitamin B Supplements: If your pet is diagnosed with a malabsorption issue or Vitamin B deficiency, your veterinarian may recommend B-complex injections. This increases fiber content and may make feces less appealing to eat. Note: Only use pure pumpkin — avoid pumpkin pie filling. Green Veggies: Add vegetables high in fiber to your dog's diet, such as spinach, kale, green beans, or broccoli. Pineapple: There are no scientific studies to support this, but an old legend suggests that feeding your dog small pieces of fresh pineapple never canned will make the taste of their poop unappealing. Meat tenderizer: Both myself and Preventive Vet's team veterinarian are wary to recommend adding meat tenderizer to a dog's diet to prevent coprophagia. Well, many meat tenderizers have other ingredients that can be toxic to dogs, such as high sodium, onion, and garlic. Bromelain, the actual "tenderizer" in these products, is present in fresh pineapple, so you're better off trying that before adding meat tenderizer to your dog's food. But just like with pineapple, there are no studies that show this is effective. There are quite a few recommendations that will pop up on Google when you search for home remedies for stopping poop eating. Be very careful what you try with your dog, and it's always a good idea to ask your veterinarian first. As mentioned above with meat tenderizers, there may be additional ingredients that can be toxic to dogs. For example, one suggestion I found is to sprinkle crushed breath mints on a dog's food, but many sugar-free breath mints contain the sugar substitute xylitol — which is extremely dangerous to dogs. I actually stopped using the product after just two days because my veterinarian informed me that it has high sodium content that she didn't recommend for my senior dog to take — the second ingredient is MSG monosodium glutamate. MSG can be toxic for dogs in high amounts or with long-term consumption. However, if only used for a short period of time, the benefits may outweigh any risks. MSG only has one-third of the sodium content of regular table salt. Some dogs do get vomiting and diarrhea. Speak to your veterinarian first before use, especially if your dog has heart or kidney issues. Does your dog eat poop? We'd love to hear about what you've tried to stop it — take this short 2-minute survey to share your experience! With over 13 years of experience, she has had the opportunity to work with hundreds of dogs on a wide variety of training and behavior issues. Beyond her one-on-one consultations through Pupstanding Academy, she also teaches group dog training classes at Seattle Humane. Her specialties include dog aggression, resource guarding, separation anxiety, and puppy socialization. She has also completed the Aggression in Dogs Master Course. When she's not geeking out about dogs, you can find her reading, hiking with her two Cardigan Welsh Corgis, or paddleboarding. Reviewed by Jennifer Coates Dr. Jennifer Coates, DVM, is an accomplished veterinarian and writer with more than 25 years of experience in veterinary medicine, animal welfare, and conservation. It could be any animal's feces, too. From its own stool to your cat's litter box deposits to a neighboring horse's or cow's manure, some puppies don't discriminate when it comes to poo they're willing to eat. Although many puppies grow out of this phase at least to some extent, there are steps you can take to discourage and even stop the behavior. Exercising your puppy more, changing foods, making it clear that poop-eating is off limits, and minimizing your dog's opportunities to snack on droppings are just some of the ways to stop this gross habit. Here's what you should know about why puppies eat their poop and how to stop it. Why Do Puppies Eat Poop? There's even a technical term for it: coprophagia. This behavior typically is normal for very young puppies, possibly to colonize the gastrointestinal tract with normal bacteria. Puppies may also learn this behavior while imitating their mothers, as a female dog normally will eat the feces of her nursing puppies to keep the "den" clean and prevent potential predators from coming to investigate the odor. Generally, female dogs will stop eating their puppies' bowel movements around the time the puppies wean, but some pups might continue to dine on droppings. Still, the good news is that most puppies outgrow the habit. The bad news is that some dogs hang on to the nasty practice throughout their lives. As far as your puppy is concerned, you are both playing a fun game. Chasing can reward the behavior and encourage your puppy to play poopy-keep-away. Other times, poop eating stems from boredom. If a pup left out in the yard alone has little to occupy its time, it may turn to the one available thing to play with. Cow and horse manure may contain undigested grains or other ingredients that are appealing to your pup. For instance, if the dog's food is not being digested fully, the dog may look to its feces as a supplement because it's nearly the same as when it was eaten. It's also possible that a dog is simply not eating enough and its daily food intake needs to be increased. Another possibility is that a puppy with a heavy infestation of worms eats its own poop in an attempt to make up for the nutrients it is losing to the worms. Health Conditions Some health issues may cause coprophagia as well. Diseases in the small intestine or pancreas may cause malabsorption or maldigestion. Also, conditions such as diabetes and thyroid disease often increase a dog's appetite and, if its regular diet isn't filling, it may resort to whatever is available. If your puppy isn't thriving despite eating a well balanced diet, or shows other signs of illness, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian to be sure there isn't a health issue at play. Stress Stress can also lead a dog to eat their feces, especially major stressors like coming to a new home after being adopted. Puppies can also become stressed if they are harshly punished for poop eating. This can lead to a vicious cycle where the puppy associates poop with punishment, and eats the "evidence" in an attempt to stay out of trouble. Parasites are often transmitted through feces, so having a dog that eats it as a treat puts the pup's health at risk. There are several things you can do to put an end to this nauseating habit: Make It Clear the Behavior Is Unwanted Puppies may eat waste to get your attention, which means that even yelling may reward their behavior. Instead, interrupt the act by shaking a can full of pennies or clapping your hands loudly. Do not hit your dog, which can make the situation even worse by causing your puppy to fear you. Once your dog leaves the poop alone, reward it for the good behavior by supplying a small treat, petting your pup or praising it, or engaging in a play session. Positive reinforcement is always better than negative discouragement when it comes to training your dog. The 12 Best Dog Training Books of Increase the Level of Activity For bored pups, increase playtime to a minimum of 20 minutes several times a day or try aerobic exercise twice a day. If you leave your puppy in the yard while you're away from home, increase the number of toys available. A treat-spiked toy such as a Kong filled with peanut butter offers a tastier, healthier alternative to poop. Remember that puppies are naturally playful, social animals that long to be with their favorite humans, so try to schedule frequent play and bonding sessions with your pet. Training sessions, such as teaching your puppy to walk on a leash, sit, stay, come, and lie down are also excellent ways to relieve boredom, encourage bonding, discourage poop-eating, and improve your dog's overall behaviors. Minimize Stress If you believe stress may be playing a role in your dog's habit, try to offer some relief. This will entail addressing the reason for its anxiety, whether that be a move to a new home, changes in household members, or simply separation anxiety. C alming products such as Adaptil may help in the interim while you work on alleviating your puppy's anxiety. Speak to your veterinarian for help with diagnosis and treatment. Keep Your Pup On a Leash Prevent access by walking your puppy on a leash and leading it away from its pile once the business is done. Offer it rewards for leaving the stool alone. Then be sure to dispose of the feces in a trash can with a tightly fitted lid so your pup can't scavenge the poop out of the garbage. Add Bad Flavors You might be able to discourage your puppy from eating poop by making the poop taste bad. This can be accomplished by adding a supplement to your puppy's meals that causes the resulting poop to taste terrible. Hot pepper and garlic are two of the commonly used ingredients in these supplements. If your puppy is dining on cat feces or another household pet's poop, try pouring a little hot sauce on the feces and allowing your puppy to sample it. This can set up a negative association in the puppy's mind that poop tastes terrible, so leave it alone. Ask your veterinarian for a recommendation. Remember to make a gradual change to the new food as a sudden change could prompt tummy issues. And always check any new food to be sure it is balanced and recommended for puppies or for dogs of all ages. Don't feed your young puppy food meant for adult dogs unless advised to do so by your veterinarian. Puppy food is formulated to provide the higher levels of nutrients and calories required by a growing dog. If your dog is dining on feces from neighborhood dogs, be sure to keep your pup tightly leashed when out walking so it can't approach the poop. The same technique can be used to keep your dog from eating horse, cow, rabbit, or other animal droppings. Remember to stay alert when walking with your puppy; dogs can be amazingly fast when they see something on the ground that they want to eat. Related Topics If you suspect your pet is sick, call your vet immediately. For health-related questions, always consult your veterinarian, as they have examined your pet, know the pet's health history, and can make the best recommendations for your pet. More from The Spruce Pets. Eating non-food items, generally known as pica , is common in Labradors and other dogs. A study focusing on canine behavior problems found that pica was the 3rd most prevalent undesirable dog behavior after barking inside the house and barking at visitors. So, why do Labradors eat non-food items? Labradors eat non-food items because they have nutritional deficiencies. They might also have medical conditions, lack physical engagement, and are bored. Or, they might suffer anxiety, have been weaned early, are teething, have OCD, or are exhibiting typical puppy neurosensory exploration. Nutritional deficiencies. This can make your Lab look for unconventional ways to supplement their inadequate diet. For example, a dog may eat dirt to find iron if absent in their diet. Medical conditions. GI diseases, anemia, malnutrition, and other diseases can cause sudden hunger pangs like diabetes. Lack of physical engagement and boredom. Where a Lab does not get adequate daily exercise and mental stimulation, lacks interactive toys, or has little social interaction. The Lab needs to find an alternative way to keep himself occupied by chewing things like wood or rocks. General anxiety and separation anxiety. These can cause your Labrador to redirect their nervousness to abnormal eating behaviors. Teething comes with itch and discomfort. Your Labrador puppy will chew non-food items to massage their gum and ease teething discomfort if proper chew toys are not provided. Early weaning. This can drive Labradors to eat non-nutritive items. Retrievers are among the dog breeds most prone to canine compulsive behavior. Labrador puppy exploration. This is part of their neurosensory exploration to familiarize themselves with their new world. Labradors are also known to always have a good appetite. This love for eating could explain why Labs might go to extremes when ingesting non-food items. The suspected cause, in this case, was loneliness, as the dog was on a balanced diet. Why Do Labradors Eat Poop? Dogs typically show an aversion to their own poop and that of other dogs. Surprisingly, though, there are dogs with a tendency to eat feces, whether their own or that of other dogs and animals. The guess is that fresh poop is harmless if it bears worm larvae since worm larvae become infectious only after 2 days. Dogs who eat poop tend to be greedy eaters. Dogs in homes with other dogs are more likely to feast on their feces, supposedly because dog poop is plentiful in those homes. Dogs with the tendency to eat poop are as receptive to house training as other dogs. Female dogs are more likely to eat feces, and intact male dogs are less likely. Here are some popular answers to the question of why Labradors eat poop: Nutritional deficiencies. If they are kept in isolation in kennels or basements. To get rid of evidence if anxious about being punished. As a form of attention-seeking. An inappropriate association of poop with food. As puppies because their mothers do. If they are sick and defecate in their own den. Given the above info, you probably wonder how to stop your Labrador from eating poop. The answer is in training. Just like other unwanted Labrador behaviors , the most effective way to stop a Lab from eating poop is to train him out of the behavior using reward-based training and treats that are more enticing to your dog than poop. Why Do Labradors Eat Dirt? Dirt is dirt, and dogs should know that. Nonetheless, many dogs still eat soil any time they have a chance. But what about Labs? Labradors eat dirt or soil to make up for nutritional deficiencies in minerals such as iron, calcium, and sodium. They might also eat dirt to counter medical issues like anemia and gastritis or to beat anxiety and boredom when left alone. They also might have minimal exercise and mental stimulation. Labradors Eat Dirt Due to Nutritional Deficiencies If you feed your Labrador an unbalanced diet lacking some minerals and vitamins, your dog can use instinctive tendencies to supplement the shortage by eating soil. Some of the minerals that your dog could be searching for by eating dirt include calcium, iron, and sodium. Do you want to know the best diet to feed your dog? Labradors and other dogs in deprived living environments can also eat dirt to counter hunger if they are not getting enough food. They include: Severe anemia: This comes from a low red blood cell count, which can be caused by external and intestinal worms in puppies. In adult Labs, anemia can be caused by immune diseases, cancer, and bleeding disorders. In both categories, anemia can also be caused by poor nutrition. Inflammation of the stomach Gastritis : It causes an upset stomach and diarrhea and can lead dogs to eat soil to relieve or trigger vomiting. Liver shunt Portosystemic shunt : It is a congenital condition in dogs that causes liver dysfunction and leads to stunted growth. Labradors Eat Soil Due to Behavioral Issues If your Lab is always home alone, has insufficient enrichment, has little exercise and mental stimulation, or suffers from general or separation anxiety, he can find alternative ways to keep himself busy and counter boredom. This could mean eating dirt. Soil can harbor worm larvae or contain toxins from pesticides and fertilizers. As such, if your Labrador is eating dirt, identify the cause and take appropriate measures to stop the behavior. Such measures include: Supervise your dog during walks. Spending quality time with your dog to prevent anxiety and boredom. Why Do Labradors Eat Grass? Labradors actually do occasionally eat grass, but why? Labradors eat grass because it is a normal dog behavior linked to their wolf descent. Although most people associate grass-eating in dogs with medicinal properties, it is not yet scientifically proven that dogs eat grass to resolve gastrointestinal issues. Here are some of the behaviors that suggest that dogs eat grass for other reasons besides health: Dogs eat grass often, on a daily or weekly basis. There is no clear-cut indication that dogs eat grass to resolve GI issues. Puppies ate grass more often than adult dogs. Puppies were also less likely to show signs of illness before and after eating grass. Dogs eat grass because they are sick: This is mainly associated with diseases such as pancreatitis, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastric reflux. Dogs may eat grass to kill boredom: If they are left home alone, or the owner is too busy to notice them or give them some playtime, dogs may eat grass to fill up the lonely hours. Dogs like the taste of grass: Some types of grass have a flavorsome sour taste that may appeal to your Lab. This flavor would explain why many dogs will go for freshly sprouted grass. Whichever of these reasons drives your Labrador to eat grass, it is essential to know that a lot of the grass available to your dog can be contaminated with toxins and worm larvae. As such, you should discourage your dog from eating grass wherever they might find it and allow your dog only to eat grass that you are sure is not chemically treated or contaminated. If, instead, you opt to train your Labrador out of grass-eating behavior, use positive reward-based training, offering tasty treats when your dog desists grass-eating. Why do Dogs Eat Grass? Why Do Labradors Eat Rocks? Dogs have strong teeth and a strong bite force, but that does not necessarily mean they are made for eating extra-hard objects like rocks or stones. So, why do Labradors eat rocks, even though they could hurt them? Labradors eat rocks or stones to find minerals lacking in their diet. Also, your Lab may eat rocks to keep himself from boredom, relieve anxiety, as a neurosensory exploration activity in puppies, as a mentally stimulating alternative to old toys, or as relief for teething discomfort. Labs eat rocks or stones for nutrition. Just like dirt, your Lab may eat stones or rocks to look for minerals lacking in their diet. These could be iron, calcium, or sodium. Labs eat rocks or stones to relieve anxiety or seek attention. Especially if your Lab is a puppy, eating rocks may simply be a part of his neurosensory exploration to discover his world. Lab puppies eat rocks to find relief from teething discomfort. If your Labrador puppy is teething, chewing on a stone or rock may serve to remove the itch and discomfort that comes with it. Labs eat stones or rocks to find a more mentally stimulating chew toy. A study on dog habituation and dishabituation to toys found that dogs lose interest in toys due to habituation more than any other factors. Labradors are highly intelligent dogs and need mind-stimulating toys. As such, chewing hard rocks that are difficult to break may be more challenging than playing with the same old toys. Are you looking to buy something for your dog? Make sure to check out my favorite dog gear below. How to stop your dog eating poop. The scientific term for poop eating is coprophagia. Dogs eating poop upset their owners, as naturally it gives you a reflex of revulsion. Very sadly it even sometimes changes your feeling towards your dog. These feelings need to be addressed, not ignored or dismissed. Coprophagia in Dogs Poop eating is often swept under the carpet. But eating feces can be a serious problem for some dogs who do it. Unfortunately, it is a frequently reported problem in Labradors and other sporting dogs. A previous study published in on dogs eating poop confirms this. Whereas, more than a third of Border Collies did. Judging from my inbox, coprophagia is common in Labradors too. But, what are some other factors affecting coprophagia? Natural Size A study published in Colorado in showed that sporting dogs were generally more likely to be coprophagic. Body weight is a factor in this behavior, but only in the sense of being related to natural size. Obese dogs, for example, although heavier were no more likely to be affected. Age is also often considered to be a factor in poop eating. However, the Colorado study did not support the theory that poop eating is more common in puppies. Coprophagia Is Linked with Neutering The current evidence points to neutering as a major factor in the development of coprophagia. One study found that poop eating was more common in spayed females Dogs that had been spayed or castrated were more likely to be reported as eating poop than dogs left in possession of their sex hormones. In the Hart study, the biggest culprits were spayed females. But in the Colorado University study, neutering drastically increased the incidence of coprophagy in male dogs. However, it had no effect on females. Regardless, though, both studies agree that neutering is a major cause of coprophagia. They prove that it seems to be more significant than any environmental factor More Common Than We Think Interestingly, the true figure for the percentage of dogs that eat poop may be even higher than these studies suggest. Data from the studies was based on owner reports and the results of another published study. The study identified coprophagic dogs and compared that data with owner reports. There are lots of them. But why do they do it? It may depend partly on the type of poop being consumed. Why Do Dogs Eat Poop? There are plenty of facts and theories around why dogs eat poop. And plenty of guesswork too. But first, note this: if your adult dog suddenly begins eating poop when they never used to, it might be wise to see your vet. Especially if your dog has recently shown other concerning symptoms. Poop-eating is typically normal for dogs as you will see. However, in some rare cases, it may be a hint that something bigger is happening. These conditions can make dogs super hungry. They will try to eat literally anything within their reach if it only slightly resembles food. Why Female Dogs Eat Poop? Then, they swallow the results. They do this for two reasons. And second, consuming the results helps to keep the nest area clean. A clean nest in wild dogs is important both from a hygiene point of view and to avoid attracting predators. So from this, we can see that nature has provided female dogs with a poop eating instinct. This instinct is always triggered by the process of giving birth and suckling puppies. We can also see that keeping a nest area clean may well be a trigger that could apply to male dogs too. And it could explain why some male dogs eat poop that they find in their own backyard. Why Do Puppies Eat Poop? Like babies, puppies explore the world with their mouths. Everything and anything goes into it. If what goes into the mouth tastes like food, then puppies may swallow it. In theory, some poop-eating puppies will grow out of it, whereas for others it becomes a habit. Well it would seem that some dogs would disagree with you. And that might be partly to do with the way we feed our dogs these days. Coprophagia and Diet In times gone by, dogs were fed a largely natural diet of mainly meat, bones and a few scraps. As carnivorous scavengers, dogs could typically digest this diet in its entirety. So, what came out the other end was fairly boring. Nowadays, however, most dogs are largely fed a pelleted cereal-based food known as kibble. This kibble contains all the nutrients a dog needs. But it also contains a number of additives to make the food taste palatable. After all, no food manufacturer wants your dog to turn his nose up at their product. So tasty is the key. And very tasty they are too. This is why kibble-fed dogs produce larger quantities of feces than raw-fed dogs. But remember those flavourings we just talked about? Well the faeces of the kibble-fed dog are not only bulky, but also highly flavoured. Now we can see why, as the popularity of kibble feeding grows, it is possible that more dogs may be turning to poop eating as a means of grabbing that extra snack during the day. Can Changing Diet Influence Coprophagia? Some studies into why dogs eat poop, have shown that dogs with deficient diets are more likely to eat poop. For example, a study on Beagles in showed that feeding a deliberately deficient diet triggered coprophagia among other problems. Therefore, in theory, if an undernourished coprophagic dog is switched to a nutrient-rich nourishing diet, that change may stop the poop eating behavior. But the modern dog eating poop is not nutritionally deficient. Most dogs nowadays are fed a balanced diet with all the nutrients they need. So, switching brands, for example, is unlikely to stop your dog eating poop. In fact, I have not found any strong evidence for dietary changes reducing coprophagia in well-fed dogs. Still, there is something you might want to consider which has some anecdotal evidence. Sophia Yin, when discussing the Ben Hart study pointed out that the study, based on questioning dog owners, noted that diet did not play a part. However, the vast majority of dogs are fed kibble, and there is no indication what diets were compared or how. The comparison could have been between different types of kibble, or between kibble and household scraps. My personal experience, however, is that changing my dogs from a diet of kibble carbohydrate based pellets of commercial dog food to a natural raw diet of meaty bones has been accompanied by the disappearance of most poop-eating in my adult dogs. So, with some exceptions, as you will see, it seems that the jury is still out on whether raw feeding is a reliable way to stop dogs eating poop. He is normal. Virtually all dogs will eat cat poop if given the opportunity. I have had the chance to rediscover this for myself first hand recently, as I am currently raising a kitten. Two of my labs, one of which has never eaten poop in her life, plus my spaniel, have all attempted dawn raids on the litter tray. Solving the Problem I have now secured the litter tray behind a baby gate which the cat can slide through and the dogs cannot. And this is likely to be the best solution to the problem. My thirteen-year-old spaniel, for instance, can clear a standard baby gate with consummate ease. My gate was meant to go across the bathroom door. But the bathroom doorway is extra narrow, so we have fitted it across the hallway instead. This fecal matter may even be an important source of nutrients in wild dogs. The same applies to ungulate feces. An ungulate is an animal with a hoof. So it is completely natural for a dog to enjoy eating horse poop, sheep poop, and deer poop too. And almost all dogs will enjoy the feces of these animals — not just your dog. However, you may have a friend whose dog never eats poop, of any kind. So why is your dog different? Eating poop often starts by accident — perhaps beginning as a puppyish habit. But from this opportunistic behavior, poop eating sometimes develops into a habit. For the reasons we have looked at above, coprophagia is more common in female dogs, but some male dogs do still eat poop. Also for the reasons above, dogs are more likely to eat poop from animals if they have a lot of digested vegetable matter in their feces. Again, remember, experts consider this normal. But some dogs do eat carnivore poop, such as the poop from wild foxes or the poop of other dogs, or even their own. And this tends to be the behavior that most upsets us humans. Note also that your dog is also more likely much more likely to eat poop, of any kind, if he or she is neutered. Unfortunately, no-one seems to know why that is. Poop eating can start in puppyhood and may become a habit if it persists in adult dogs. Dogs who eat their own poop may be attracted to the flavor switching to a raw diet may help in this case. In this case, though, a change of diet is unlikely to help. There is also evidence that poop eating is more likely in dogs that already have behavioral problems such as anxiety or pica eating plants, stones, and other inedible items. However, we also know that well-balanced, well-fed, physically and emotionally healthy dogs can also be poop eaters. In fact, most poop eating dogs probably fall into this category. The simple truth is, that poop eating, while thoroughly objectionable to us, is so common as to be normal in the domestic dog. And we will probably never find out exactly why dogs eat poop on a case by case basis. There is definitely a risk that your dog could get parasites from eating the poop of other dogs. However, worming your dog regularly should prevent this causing him any serious health problems. The potential for parasites sometimes found in cat poop fall into this category. Most dogs have a digestion that is simply unaffected by common pathogens that could make you or me very ill. The answer lies in the breakdown of the bond between the dog and his family. This happens because humans are often shocked and disgusted by the behavior, and if they fail to address it swiftly, may abandon their dog. Most dogs come to no harm directly, from poop eating. But, indirectly, it can lead to dogs being re-homed or abandoned. Many owners find poop eating upsetting and embarrassing. I hear quite a lot of dog owners issue ultimatums on this one. Very often, the reasons given for abandoning the dog are to do with hygiene. The families often claim to be worried that the dog will infect a family member with pathogens from the poop he has eaten. But the underlying cause may be more fundamental than that. After all, most people are happy to share an ice-cream with a dog that licked his bottom a few minutes earlier. The truth is then is that, whether we like it or not, persistent poop eating may seriously reduce the love a person feels for their dog. This is an issue that is not often raised, but is a significant one. But for many people with a first dog, poop eating is a terrible shock and a serious concern. The important thing to tell you is that most of us more seasoned dog owners once felt the same way. And I was appalled and disgusted — even tempted to re-home her. But I can tell you that she is still with me today. My girl is thirteen years old, rarely eats poop these days never say never , and is one of my dearest friends. So these things can be worked through. How to Stop a Dog from Eating Poop There are lots of things you can try to prevent a dog eating his own poop at home. The first step is to remove the source of poop wherever possible. This means being scrupulous about picking up after your dog, whenever he has emptied himself. You may also find it helpful, for a while at least, to go with your dog when you let him out for bathroom purposes. That way, you can clear up immediately, and dispose of his feces securely, before he is tempted to settle down for a snack. One more thing is something to avoid. Some dogs may continue to eat poop if they feel like it gets your attention. Unfortunately, dogs do love attention. So, if your furry friend notices that eating poop makes you pay more attention to him, he may just continue. So, while you certainly do not want to ignore this habit, it may be worth it to be careful the kind of attention you do give it. What these do is counteract the nice flavors and make his poop taste less appealing. Pineapple is a popular one, pepper powder another. However, sadly, in most cases, these kinds of remedies do not work. And when they do, some find that they only work for a short while. Some people also use substances that create a burning sensation when swallowed. A good example is chilli powder. A bit dismal, to be honest. Some people find raw feeding eliminates poop eating. But these reports including mine are anecdotal. They are not reliable evidence that such a switch will work for you. Plus, moving over to a raw diet is a major change you need to consider from various perspectives. But when I do this, I have to be very careful to pick up poops quickly, or my spaniel will revert to her old ways. But, not everyone has the time or resources to drastically change the method of feeding their dog. So what other options are available? It even caused further problems in some dogs. Freddie was a neutered male poodle whose owners tried many different approaches to stop poop-eating. Eventually, though, they resorted to punishment. But this final step failed to cure Freddie and caused him to develop submissive urination. You can imagine that this only added to their problems. Of course, the methods above only work to prevent your dog eating his own poo. A reward-based programme of recall training may be helpful. In this case, you deliberately seek out dog poop in public places, and recall your dog from it. Then, you reward them with a tasty treat from you. I personally use the magic word system which I find very effective. I associate a powerful reward with a special word that I reserve just for the purpose of distracting the dog from poop. For example, roast chicken is ideal. At some point thereafter, when I see the dog approach some poop with a gleam in her eye, I will use my magic word and chuck the fabulous treat on the ground. Sometimes, to begin with, the dog will eat the poop, then come for the reward. You just have to accept this with good grace. Other times often a bit further on in the process , she will bring the poo with her eek!! Accept this too. Trust Your Reward! If your reward is good enough, your dog will soon abandon all thoughts of poop eating when she hears that word. This will only work if your treat is truly fabulous! Also, it is vital that you are persistent. Keep your Magic Word strong with great rewards, and mostly no requirement from the dog to get it. This will in turn help to keep his mind occupied. But there are no guarantees. Ultimately, you may have to accept that when your dog is out of your sight, or some distance away, there is little you can do to prevent prevent him from indulging in this distasteful habit. So, how do you clean up their mouths and reduce that gross smell so you can still cuddle them in the meantime? Remember to use a doggie-appropriate toothpaste and brush. Feed him: Giving food and water will produce saliva. Dental chew: This also works like food and water; it produces saliva which cleans their mouths. Use a doggie mouthwash: Mix the mouthwash not human mouthwash! Then wipe their teeth and inside their mouths with a cloth soaked in mouthwash. Wipe their mouths with a cloth: You can also soak the cloth in coconut oil or salt water. Too much can cause dehydration and vomiting. Hopefully, you can go back to being cuddly with your furchild. Around half of all dogs do it. It is also more likely to happen if your dog is a gun dog breed like a Labrador. We know poop eating can be embarrassing and distressing — been there! Neither will it harm your family. There are a few things you can do to greatly reduce poop eating. And you will get over your horror and revulsion and feel good about your dog again. Neither will make it go away. Here are the things that have been shown NOT to work in the fight against poop eating: Dietary additives pineapple etc Aversive flavors pepper, chilli etc Punishment e-collars, rattle bottles, smacking etc Adding things to diet or poop have had less than two percent success rate. What Does Work to Prevent Coprophagia? Studies show conclusively that prevention and positive reinforcement training using tasty rewards are the key to success. Clear up all poop immediately they are produced. Accompany your dog to the yard after meals, take a shovel, and remove all poop as soon as they appear! Finally, dispose of them securely. You may consider using a muzzle in some situations. Or use a leash if you are forced to exercise your dog in an area where there is poop lying around. Then you can take some with you when you take your dog for a walk. Teach the magic word cue and use it! However, we selected them for inclusion independently, and all of the views expressed in this article are our own.