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Breeds The link has been copied! Few dogs are as intelligent and loyal as German Shepherds. With its athletic build and remarkable drive, this working breed makes excellent companions, herding dogs, police K-9s, and therapy animals. How much does a German Shepherd cost? The price of a German Shepherd puppy can vary a lot from one breeder to another. German Shepherds are active and need plenty of stimulation. Flea and tick preventatives are a must-have. You might face additional costs such as pet insurance, training classes, boarding fees, or dog walkers. Puppies tend to cost more due to the high demand. However, professional breeders charge a lot more. Professional breeders usually conduct health testing for the parents. Elbow and hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy are the two main tests to look for when adopting a GSD puppy. Prenatal care for the mother can be expensive. These costs can include bloodwork, ultrasounds, and X-rays. Most breeders raise the puppies for the first eight to 12 weeks. They provide nutrition, a living space, socialization, and sometimes early training. Puppies typically receive veterinary care, including a first round of booster shots and a deworming treatment. Colors German Shepherds can come in a few different colors. Black and tan and black and cream are the most common GSD colors. However, there are rarer colors, like black and silver, sable, or black. These colors meet the official breed standards, and a puppy with an unusual color can be worth more. Bloodline and Purity One of the key factors that influences the cost of a GSD puppy is the parents and their pedigrees. A breeder will look at how well the parents match the AKC breed standards. Both parents should be the right height and color. They should have a muscular morphology and the proper head shape. Breeders who are able to trace the ancestry of a litter over several generations and document that all the ancestors are purebred GSDs will charge more. You should also expect to pay more if a breeder can provide health testing information over several generations. Titles are another important factor. Show dogs can receive V, VA, or VA1 titles if they do well at an event and judges determine they meet all the standards of the breed. An IGP3 title indicates that a dog can protect its owner. Parents with IGP or IPO titles produce puppies that are worth more since breeders consider these animals to have excellent potential for training. A breeder who has an excellent reputation and many positive online reviews will attract more prospective dog owners and can afford to charge more. You can protect your dog with a microchip, but there are other steps you can take. The Fi GPS tracking dog collar helps you keep your dog safe. The design is highly resistant and waterproof for durability, and the collar comes with a battery that lasts three months. You can track your pet anywhere and locate them easily if they get lost. There are a few things you should know about this working breed. Personality of the German Shepherd German Shepherds are fiercely loyal. They make excellent guard dogs thanks to their protective instincts. They also make amazing pets who will give you lots of affection. GSDs are reliable and hardworking dogs who thrive if you constantly give them new tasks and challenges. These dogs are extremely versatile. German Shepherds have amazing potential and tend to do extremely well in training thanks to their drive and intelligence. However, they require consistent training and handling since they can be mouthy, chase prey, or become overprotective without the right training. Size and Weight German Shepherds are medium to large dogs. When it comes to weight, a healthy male will weigh 66 to 88 lbs. Lifestyle and Activity Levels German Shepherds are a working breed. Their origin dates back to the 19th century when dog breeder Max Von Stephanitz developed a new dog by breeding different herding dogs. Like all shepherds, GSDs have a strong need to stay active. Due to their athletic build, these dogs need at least two hours of exercise every day. Going for walks might not be sufficient. Your GSD will thrive if you provide plenty of opportunities to use their athletic abilities, including jumping, swimming, or running. Approximate Lifetime Care Costs The total cost of owning a German Shepherd is difficult to estimate since every animal is different. German Shepherds can be expensive. Here are a few tips to help you lower the cost. Look for a breeder who cares about the animals and who does health testing on the parents, but everything else is extra. You should also consider adopting a dog with an unknown lineage. Check local shelters or go online to look at classified ads. Check classified ads to find owners rehoming their pets. If you decide to get a German Shepherd, think about using the Fi GPS dog collar to keep your dog safe, and make sure you can bring your puppy home if she gets lost. Get more expert advice on pet-parenting by visiting the Off Leash blog at TryFi. TryFi's The Fi Dog Collar is a must-have for any pet parent, it's a GPS tracking collar that helps you keep tabs on your dog's location, activity, and sleep patterns, and alerts you if they escape your backyard. Try the Fi Dog Collar today! The link has been copied! You might also like. Apart from recurring costs such as dog food, toys, and grooming essentials, a great chunk of your finances must go to routine veterinary care and pet insurance. Annual check-ups should be done on adult German Shepherds to check their physical condition and ensure they are healthy dogs. This involves listening to the heart and checking the ears and eyes. The typical lifespan of a GSD is 7 to 10 years. Other Potential Expenses Owning a dog is already comparable to parenthood. German Shepherds, much like any other dog breed, have other needs that go beyond food, water, and shelter. Your dog will be watched over, fed, and socialized with other dogs. Grooming Services: For your GSD to have a well-maintained coat and appearance, you should take them to a professional grooming salon. They will be cleaned, trimmed, and pampered as they deserve. Emergency Treatment: Dogs grow up so fast. As your German Shepherd puppy gets older, they are more prone to health issues like hip dysplasia. Sudden injuries can also happen that will require immediate medical attention and treatment. This will allow them to join various dog shows and other competitions. Places to Find German Shepherd Puppies for Sale and Adoption Once you plan everything out financially, you are ready to find places where you can buy your German Shepherd puppy. Cheap German Shepherd dogs can be bought from puppy mills or a backyard breeder. Buying from responsible breeders is the best option to get healthy puppies that will grow up to be strong adult dogs. To help on your quest, here is a list of breeders certified by the American Kennel Club that offer high-quality German Shepherd puppies: Vom Ragnar German Shepherds — This is a small kennel located in Illinois dedicated to breeding show-quality German Shepherds with sound temperament and the best condition because they have their puppies undergo health testing. This breeder strives to match their GSD pups to the most suited families. Mittelwest German Shepherds — As a well-renowned breeder, the owner ensures that they only produce show-quality German Shepherd puppies that can serve as show dogs, guard dogs, K-9, and much more. They also import and ship their dogs worldwide. West Coast German Shepherds — If you are located in California, this breeder can offer you a health-tested German Shepherd puppy coming from the best bloodlines. Buying the cheapest puppies online seems tempting, especially if you are on a budget, but you might spend more in the future due to medical expenses. To easily distinguish a responsible breeder from a puppy mill or backyard breeder, check out our puppy buying guide. Are you considering adopting a German Shepherd instead of buying from a breeder? If you are, this list can help you find the perfect GSD pup for you: German Shepherd Rescue and Adoptions — Based in North Carolina, this non-profit organization was established to protect and promote the German Shepherd breed. German Shepherd Rescue of Orange County — This volunteer organization is all about placing unwanted, neglected, and abused German Shepherds into permanent, loving homes. Applicants are encouraged to meet up with their chosen dog prior to adoption. Matching their rescue dogs to a suitable owner is their top priority, along with the restoration of their health. For more chances of finding your lifelong companion, check out this list of the 10 best German Shepherd rescues. You can surely find one in your location! Adoption is the cheapest alternative to getting a German Shepherd Dog, and this is more suggested than buying from backyard breeders. Buy high-quality items. You will spend more on replacing them rather than having good products that can last for a longer time. Purchase supplies in bulk. When buying food or treats for your pup, make sure to stock up by buying them in bulk. This can save you a lot of money than buying small bags of kibble or cans of wet food. Keep your dog in excellent shape. To avoid expensive veterinary bills, keep your German Shepherd puppy fit and healthy. Do this by feeding them high-quality dog food equipped with the right nutrients. Groom your GSD at home. Instead of going to a professional groomer, learn to groom your German Shepherd puppy at home. All you need to do is buy the basic grooming tools and research how to groom your dog effectively. Plan your finances accordingly so no one will have to suffer in the long run. They are highly intelligent and loyal dogs that will protect you at all costs. Buying one from a reputable breeder is worth the hefty purchase price than purchasing from backyard breeders or puppy mills. On another note, you can adopt from a local rescue organization, but make sure to ask about any current health conditions that the dog may have. Aside from the financial aspect, make sure you are prepared for the full responsibility of being a German Shepherd puppy owner. Now you know how much German Shepherds cost, are you ready to own one? Share your thoughts in the comments below. My passion for animals started at a very young age as I grow up on a farm with several horses, cows, cats, chickens, and dogs on our property. Leave a Comment. German Shepherds are considered healthy dogs that can live many years. You must be able to pay for these dogs every month of their lives. For the most part, providing your dog with a lot of exercise and high-quality food will prevent the dog from developing unforeseen health issues. You will need to buy a dog-safe toothpaste, dog-safe shampoo, and certain medications, such as heartworm prevention, to keep your dog healthy its entire life. Not only do you have to feed your German Shepherd a lot of food, but you want to feed your dog food that is high quality and healthy. As long as your dog does not have any known illnesses or issues, you should not have to pay monthly prices. At the minimum, you should take your German Shepherd for an annual visit, assuming it is healthy. You also need to pay for flea, tick, and heartworm prevention. Most of these medications last for 1 to 3 months at a time. It is completely up to you whether or not you decide to get pet insurance. If you are interested in getting health insurance for your new pet, Lemonade offers customizable insurance plans and responsive customer service. If you do not want to pay for pet insurance, you can simply set up a savings account instead. So long as you have a house and a yard for your dog to play, the home environment is generally suitable for dogs. Some environmental maintenance things you will need to buy include doggie bags. You need these if you take your dog for a walk or if you have a yard that you have to maintain. You may also need to pay for carpet cleaner, deodorizer, and other items to keep the house clean, despite your heavy shedding German Shepherd. This means that your German Shepherd can help you out when you are in a pinch, but it also means that you need to provide your German Shepherd ample entertainment, or else your dog could become destructive. At the very minimum, you need to buy heavy-duty toys for your German Shepherd. German Shepherds can be really rough with their toys. So, we recommend some sort of brand specific for rough-playing dogs, such as Kong. These boxes will offer toys, treats, and more for your dog, but these boxes can be pretty expensive too. Additional Costs to Factor In In addition to initial costs and monthly payments, there are some other additional factors you need to think about. For starters, obedience training is really important for dogs of this size. Obedience training can be a bit expensive at first, but it will be worth it in the long run. You need to pay for a pet sitter or kennel whenever you go on vacations and your dog does not come with you. If you are buying a German Shepherd puppy, you may also have to pay to replace or fix items the puppy damages. Think about accidents or unforeseen illnesses too. These can cost a whole lot in vet visits. Owning a German Shepherd on a Budget If you want a German Shepherd but are worried about destroying your budget, there are ways that you can own one of these wonderful dogs without spending a fortune either. Unfortunately, there is little you can change about the price of these dogs up front, but you can save on the monthly expenses. The most important tip for taking care of a German Shepherd on a budget is to know when to splurge. When it comes to dog food, make sure to select high-quality food. This will be more expensive upfront, but it will ensure that your dog is healthy for as long as possible, resulting in fewer bills. Splurging on heavy-duty toys is another great idea. These toys will cost more at first, but they should last much longer than cheap ones. For instance, there are a lot of coupons and promo codes you can use when purchasing toys, food, and other items for your German Shepherd. Even if you find coupons, only spend money on the essentials. Not to mention, buy crates and beds that are suitable for the dog as it grows. Many people make the mistake of buying crates and beds suitable for the puppy, but the puppy soon outgrows them. The initial cost primarily accounts for the dog itself and any other items required when bringing the dog home for the first time. Even after the German Shepherd has made your home its home, you will still have to pay some pretty hefty bills for the remainder of its life. Although the initial and monthly costs for this dog are a bit high, they are required for this dog to live a happy life. If you cannot afford to provide a German Shepherd the sort of life it needs and deserves, simply do not get a German Shepherd. If your breeder had not run these genetic tests on your dog—or if you adopt a German Shepherd from a rescue or shelter, you can run the Embark Dog DNA Test using a simple saliva test you can perform at home. Dogs with CLAD, type III typically exhibit symptoms such as recurrent ear infections, skin infections, pneumonia, and other respiratory infections. Dogs with DM first lose coordination in their hind legs, then they lose muscle mass and eventually the ability to walk. It is caused by a lack of one of the proteins needed for blood to clot properly. Dogs with hemophilia A will often suffer from uncontrolled bleeding, most commonly into the joints. Uric acid is a waste product that is normally eliminated from the body through the kidneys. When the kidneys are not able to remove enough uric acid, it builds up in the blood and can cause health problems. Dogs with hyperuricosuria are at risk for developing bladder stones, kidney stones, and other health problems. P-glycoprotein is involved in the transport of drugs and other molecules across cell membranes. Drugs that are known to cause adverse reactions in MDR1 dogs include digoxin, ivermectin, loperamide, and milbemycin. There are several different types of MPS, each caused by a deficiency in a specific enzyme needed to break down mucopolysaccharides. It is caused by a genetic mutation that impairs the ability of the blood to clot properly. This can lead to frequent and sometimes severe bleeding events which can be difficult to control, even with the help of medications. Dogs with this condition are at an increased risk for bleeding and may require lifelong monitoring and medical management. Symptoms include weight loss, decreased appetite, vomiting, and increased water consumption. Affected dogs have problems with the development of their skin, hair, nails, and teeth. They may also have problems with sweating and the function of their tears and salivary glands. Dogs with this disorder usually have a very thin coat of hair, often with areas that are bald or have very thin hair. Their skin may be dry and cracked, and they may develop sores on their skin. Nails may be abnormally shaped or missing altogether, and teeth may be missing or poorly developed. Dogs with X-linked ectodermal dysplasia often experience overheating. Attend a sanctioned dog show and talk with breeders and competitors for recommendations. Ask your veterinarian for recommendations regarding reputable breeders. Check the Facebook page of the breeder and read through the comments. Remember, however, that comments can be deleted by the page owner. The breeder should be happy to share the name and contact information for customers. Ask questions. Lots of questions. The breeder should be glad to share the test results from the health tests and screenings and should be happy to let you meet at least the mother if not the sire as well of the German Shepherd Dog puppies. Ask how often the dogs are bred. Ask to tour the kennels. Are they well maintained? Do the dogs look healthy? Beware of operations that will not let you tour the kennels and breeders that want to meet you in a parking lot to hand over the puppy. Be prepared for questions. The breeder should ask YOU questions as well; be suspicious if the breeder has no questions about your past history with pets, your living situation, etc. The breeder should want to know how much experience you have with herding breeds, what your training plans are and your plans for exercising the dog. Ask if the breeder will take the German Shepherd puppy—or adult dog—back if necessary. Ask for a contract. If medical problems are diagnosed, the breeder should readily take the pup back and provide a full refund. German Shepherd breeders may adopt out of the area but, nonetheless, you will want to go to the breeder to meet the parents, view the kennels and bring home your puppy in person. This will add to your expenses—but breeders that transport a puppy by air are putting the dog at risk. If you want to buy a German Shepherd Dog from an online breeder, please think again. There are numerous scams; people spend thousands of dollars for a dog and never receive a puppy. AKC warns potential pet parents to be wary of any seller asking for payment by Venmo, in gift cards or as a wire transfer. Dogs purchased from puppy mills can mean years of heartache and expensive veterinary care—and perpetuation of a cruel industry. The pros of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder: You may be able to select a puppy—including a choice of gender. A reputable breeder will be passionate about German Shepherds and will a resource for years to come. The cons of purchasing from a German Shepherd breeder You will pay far more for a cattle dog from a breeder than a rescue or shelter. If you find a breeder who has German Shepherd puppies for sale at prices much lower than you are seeing from other breeders, you must suspect you are dealing with a backyard breeder who has not done health screening, with an online seller who is operating a puppy mill or with someone who is running a scam. You will need to wait until puppies are available. You will need to do your own due diligence to select a reputable breeder. German Shepherd Dogs in rescues are far less expensive that those at a breeder. Puppies under a year old will be the most costly. This group provides funding to a network of GSD rescues — they do not have dogs themselves for adoption. They have a list of affiliated rescues that can help located adoptable GSDs in your region. A breed rescue is, like the name suggests, a pet rescue that is specifically for one breed of dog. These are generally small non-profit groups that operate through a foster system of volunteers who love the breed. German Shepherd rescues specialize in German Shepherds of all ages; some have primarily purebred German Shepherds while others may also have adoptable Belgian Malinois and Dutch Shepherds. How to Find Breed Rescues Along with the list mentioned above, many breed rescues list their adoptable dogs on large adoption sites such as:. Deworming Spaying or neutering If you were to add up the cost of all of these services separately, and not part of an all-inclusive adoption fee, the price tag would invariably be considerably higher. Additionally, you can also feel good about adopting a GSD puppy from a shelter, as the proceeds acquired through adoption fees are used to help support the shelter from which you adopted the puppy. This allows a shelter to continue to rescue new animals and relocate them in safe homes. One potential downside to adoption is the time and effort that it may take you to find the right pup for you. Unlike a breeder who is able to provide you with rather specific dates, there is no telling when a new GSD puppy may be available through a shelter. Additionally, purebred GSD puppies tend to be adopted out very quickly, so if you choose this option you must be very diligent and persistent. Be prepared to make lots of phone calls on a daily basis, as it is unlikely that a shelter will call you specifically when the puppy you want arrives, as many others will undoubtedly have the same request. This is because purebred dogs that are ethically raised by responsible breeders are expensive to breed in general. Also, in contrast to a purebred shelter puppy that spends a short portion of its life at the shelter prior to adoption, a breeder must pay all of the costs associated with raising an entire litter for a minimum of 8 weeks, as is mandated by law in many states. Next comes the cost of pre-breeding health checks performed on both parents, prenatal care, stud fees, shots, food, wormings, vet visits, and a host of other unexpected medical costs. You must also figure in the time and effort that it takes to socialize an entire litter, coupled with the fact that many breeders are dealing with more than one litter at a time, and it is easy to see how the costs can quickly add up. Essentially, a purebred German Shepherd puppy from a breeder will cost more because they are more expensive to raise. However, a purebred puppy from a reputable breeder will also come with health and temperament guarantees, so you do actually get what you pay for. For more detailed understanding of adopting a German Shepherd puppy from a shelter versus purchasing one from a breeder, we have an excellent article here that will answer all of your questions and remove all of the guesswork for you. The Cost of the First Year of German Shepherd Puppy Ownership While the amount of money that you spend to acquire a German Shepherd puppy will vary in accordance to the different factors that we have described above, keep in mind that acquiring the puppy is just be beginning of your financial commitment. It is important that you pay attention to these costs, as they can be significant, and may have a bearing on whether or not acquiring a GSD puppy is a good economical choice for you. While there are other related costs, the main costs that you will incur during the first year of GSD puppy ownership can be apportioned as follows: Initial Cost of Your Puppy As described above, this is entirely dependent on whether you adopt from a shelter or purchase from a breeder. This cost varies widely and can exceed several thousand dollars on the high end. Dog Food With so many different dog food brands on the market today, this cost can also vary considerably. From basic dry dog food to available gourmet raw diets, you can spend as little or as much as you choose. Grooming While you can groom your GSD puppy yourself, many people opt to take their puppy to a professional groomer. Necessities such as nail trimming can be intimidating to the first-time puppy owner and may harm the puppy if performed incorrectly. Training While it is our preference that you take the time to properly train your GSD puppy on your own, as this is a unique and irreplaceable bonding experience on many levels for you and your GSD puppy, many people opt to seek professional obedience training. Some people simply do not have the time to do this, or perhaps it is their first dog and they are unsure of where to begin. If this is the case for you, then you should plan on this expense during your first year of GSD puppy ownership. It is, however, important to understand that individually these items do not cost very much, but if you love to spoil your puppy, then costs can add up very quickly! Crate and Divider A crate is another essential item that there is just no getting around purchasing if you want your puppy to be well-trained. Be sure to not make the mistake that many people do by purchasing too small of a crate and then having to upsize as their puppy grows. It is wise to purchase a large crate as well as a crate divider. This way, you are able to place the divider so that the volume of the crate can be increased as your puppy grows in size. Veterinary Care A preliminary veterinary health check and vaccinations are essential. If you adopt from a shelter, these are likely included in the adoption fee. However, if you purchase your puppy from a breeder, you may incur these costs after bringing your puppy home. Keep in mind that you can, and should, also plan on unexpected veterinary bills. What happens when your puppy gets into something that he definitely should not have, and even worse, after veterinary office hours? It is wise to prepare and set aside some extra funds for such emergencies. Heartworms can be deadly, so heartworm preventative medication is a must. Ticks can also transmit disease that may cause severe illness, such as Canine Anaplasmosis , and fleas are wildly uncomfortable for both human and puppies alike. Table: First Year of German Shepherd Puppy Ownership Costs Now that we have gone over the basic essential expenses of GSD puppy ownership during the first year, we can get more specific as to the expenses that you may incur, depending on your own personal preferences. The table below provides a reasonable estimate of all costs associated with the first year of German Shepherd puppy ownership. Keep in mind that, while this is a reasonable estimate, it is still an estimate. There are certain services and items within the table below that are elective, such as boarding the puppy while on vacation or obedience classes. However, as discussed above, there are certain mandatory, nonnegotiable expenses such as food and veterinary care that you must take into consideration. If a breeder tries to tell you that his puppies are healthy because their parents never had any issues — do not believe him! It is impossible to diagnose e. Where can you find cheap German Shepherd Dogs? The question is — do you want to purchase a dog with questionable health and temperament? These dogs often are not purebred German Shepherd puppies, but are mixed with e. Labradors, Pitbulls or Golden Retrievers. If you end up with a dog with genetically based health conditions however, be prepared to spend a multiple of the original purchase price on vet costs! Temperament and behavior While a lot of good manners can be taught through consistent training, temperament is genetic to a certain level. When you buy an extra cheap German Shepherd puppy, you not only get a dog with questionable health, but also with unpredictable temperament! Even aggression can be genetic and can be passed on from the mom and dad to the offspring. You can save yourself a lot of time, nerves and money spent on future behavioral training by getting a well-bred and more expensive dog. What is the most expensive type of German Shepherd? Like in many dog breeds, certain rare German Shepherd colors are much more expensive than the most common colors and patterns. It is much more important that your puppy has a sound temperament and fits in well with your family and lifestyle than that he has a certain rare look. These dogs are mutts German Shepherds mixed with Miniature Poodles, Shelties or other smaller breeds. Once more, be certain to not decide on your future dog based on looks alone. A stable temperament and good health is much more integral than a certain size or weight. Working lines vs show lines The German Shepherd was originally bred as a working dog. Since his original use as a shepherd dog however, he has filled many different roles — from guarding properties over being used in the show ring to participating in Schutzhund and IPO trails. Depending on which lines your German Shepherd Dog comes from, the prices can vary a lot! Show line German Shepherds are the dogs that are bred for conformation shows. These are the type of dogs you should decide on if you would like a shepherd puppy as a pet and companion animal. If you are interested in using your German Shepherd as a protection dog and to participate in IPO trials, you should pick one from working lines. There are a lot of highly successful working line breeders both in North America and Europe. For this price, you get an absolutely flawless dog with extensive skills and perfect obedience. Some US dog owners interested in Schutzhund choose to import a puppy from old European working lines. While this might sound insanely high for a pet dog owner, for Schutzhund enthusiasts it is a typical price for a pedigreed German Shepherd pup. How much does it cost a month to own a German Shepherd? This will cover the basics: high-quality food and regular vet checks. Some German Shepherd owners spend considerably more money. Professional grooming is necessary for many German Shepherd owners, as these dogs shed heavily. This breeds tends to exhibit several behavioral issues that can be difficult to fix for first-time dog owners, including: Separation anxiety.

It is an intelligent dog breed that is easily trainable, and possesses a gentle temperament but can also be quite energetic in nature. And that is what this article is for. In this article, we highlight a list of some of the best Bernedoodle breeders residing in Pennsylvania. These are highly reputable breeders that truly care for the well-being of the breed and are known for producing high-quality Bernedoodle puppies for numerous families in the state and the entire country. So do ensure you read on till the end for my personal pick. Their name pretty much sells them already. They produce Bernedoodles that are quite lovely, loyal, and beautiful. The puppies are of course healthy and contain a high intelligence level that makes them trainable. This means they could be bred to become service dogs or therapy dogs to help people living with PTSD. All their puppies are f1b generation puppies so they are born with hypoallergenic coats and still maintain their hybrid vigor, and they breed puppies of both medium and mini sizes. These dogs each come from highly respectable lineages that are AKC registered and are even championed dogs with impressive pedigrees to show for it. The sires and dams are carefully selected after much research would have been done. They are further tested for genetic defects and each has their OFA and CERF certifications to show they have well-functioning hips, elbows, eyes, and hearts. Every Bernedoodle puppy is raised in a family home in New Holland Pennsylvania, and they have been doing this for over 25 years, so they definitely do know what they are doing. The puppies are made to sleep in warm areas alongside members of the family. They are socialized as they are introduced to both human and non-human elements to help them get accustomed to new environments and situations. Each puppy is also potty and crate trained. All puppies from Bernedoodles of Love come with a written health guarantee free from genetic health issues, They are examined and vet checked by a licensed vet and each has their deworming and vaccination records updated. Best Bernedoodle Breeder in Pennsylvania welcome to Integrity Bernedoodles You want a new puppy, but not just any puppy. And since this is a big and exciting step in your life, you don't want to settle for anything less than the best. Here at Integrity Bernedoodles, our goal is to bring to you the best of Bernedoodles! We strive to be open and honest and provide happy, healthy puppies that are well socialized. So don't hesitate to reach out to us; we would love to meet you and help you choose your new best friend! Our health guarantees and socialization are promises you can count on us to uphold. As a small, family-owned business, we operate solely out of our passion for the Bernedoodle breed and making families happy by introducing them to their new best friends. We work hard to take care of and socialize each and every one of our puppies from the day they are born - one of the most significant benefits of being a small-scale operation. This socialization and intentional care mean your puppy will be happy and fully ready to go home with you and your family when the time comes. If you are looking for a trustworthy and caring PA Bernedoodle Breeder, you have come to the right place! Contact Us Why We Chose to Become Bernedoodle Breeders After our first encounter with a Bernedoodle puppy , we almost instantly had a dream of creating the perfect family dog. We absolutely loved the affectionate, playful, and loyal disposition of a Bernedoodle, and couldn't get enough of the beautiful tri-color coat. A tri-color Bernedoodle puppy is one that has black, white, and brown coloring in the coat - similar to a standard Bernese Mountain Dog. Our goal as Bernedoodle breeders is to provide families with simultaneously beautiful and loving dogs, and we are sure you will love this breed as much as we do. More About the Bernedoodle Bernedoodle Puppies Our Bernedoodle puppies adore children and make for a fun, furry family member. All of our puppies are health tested and guaranteed, but more importantly, they are raised by the caring hands of our entire family from the day they are born. We have lots of beautiful Bernedoodle puppies for sale ready to be taken home, and look forward to introducing you to your new family member! We are 40 miles east of Harrisburg, 1 hour west of Allentown, and less than 2 hours northwest of Philadelphia. Although we are located in Pennsylvania and mainly serve local PA customers, we welcome all dog lovers from around the country and will assist with delivering puppies nationwide. You may be located on the other side of the country, but we can assure you that a puppy from a trustworthy Bernedoodle breeder is well worth any travel inconveniences! Integrity Bernedoodles. Life Span Did You Know? These large, fluffy dogs are known for their non-shedding coats and lovable personalities. Bernedoodles tend to be a great addition to any family! Although the Bernedoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other dog registries. As long as they are properly socialized, they tend to be open and friendly dogs that get along well with just about anyone. These dogs tend to do well with children, other dogs, and other pets. Although they can be initially wary and watchful at first, they even tend to warm up quickly to strangers once introduced. Bernedoodles are highly adaptable dogs. They thrive in homes with yards where they can run. Despite their size and energy, they can also adapt to apartment living as long as they get enough daily exercise and attention. These dogs tend to handle the cold better than the heat; you may even have some trouble getting them to come back inside after some playtime in the snow. Because Bernedoodles bond so closely with their families and enjoy nothing more than being around them, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to skin issues like sensitive skin, allergies, and hot spots. Reputable breeders screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, the Standard Bernedoodle is also at risk for bloat like both parent breeds. The Bernedoodle is a highly intelligent and easily trained dog breed. Some facts about Bernedoodles are that they are a good fit for owners of any experience level and tend to pick up commands easily. Although they tend to grow out of this initial stubbornness with age, puppy training classes will certainly help with training and socialization early on. Bernedoodles tend to have a longer coat that ranges from curly to wavy. Although they tend to be non-shedding, they still need a lot of maintenance to keep their coat looking great. Daily brushing to remove tangles and prevent mats along with grooming every weeks are recommended. Nail trims once or twice a month are usually enough to keep nails from growing too long. Ear checks weekly with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing daily along and cleanings at the vet as needed are an ideal start to a good dental care routine for your Bernedoodle. Standard Bernedoodles can range from moderate to high energy. They tend to sit in a more moderate activity range and have bursts of higher energy when they play. These dogs are known to play hard and energetically until they are tired, but are not usually considered high-energy dogs. Daily walks plus playtime and some time to run should be enough for a Bernedoodle. But, these dogs will likely be up for more activity if you are. They will love the opportunity to spend more time being active with you. A fully-grown Standard Bernedoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. Standard Bernedoodles generally live for years on average. A Bernedoodle is also sometimes called a Bernese Mountain Poo. Featured Bernedoodle 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 Bullboxer Pit Highlights The Bullboxer Pit is a mixed breed dog. Bullboxer Pits may tend to overeat. Owners must be diligent about monitoring diet. Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. The most regularly seen coat colors are brown, tan, yellow, and black. Although their coats are easy to maintain, Bullboxer Pits do shed all year long. Brushing can help. Due to their exercise requirements, physical strength, and need for training, this breed might not be best for novice dog owners. Boxers came on the scene in Germany back in the s; the dogs were often used to transport supplies and ferry messages to troops during the first two World Wars. The American Pit Bull Terrier was first employed in blood sports and used in baiting bears and bulls. The first ever Bullboxer Pits can be traced back to a German dog breed called the Bullenbeisser, which is now extinct. Due to the care and attention Bullboxer Pits require from an owner, many of them can end up in shelters. Bullboxer Pit Size The Bullboxer Pit is often described as a medium-sized dog, although they are also stockier and sturdier than many other middle-sized canines. Most weigh in at 50 to 80 pounds and range in height from 16 to 20 inches. Female Bullboxer Pits can often be a little smaller than their male counterparts. Bullboxer Pit Personality Bullboxer Pits have often been used as farm or guard dogs, due mostly to their loyal nature and powerful strength. These dogs can be especially devoted to their families, and often become very protective of any children in the household. Very upbeat walks—or even jogs—are required, so the owner must also be able to maintain a healthy and regular exercise routine. Around two hours of exercise per day is required—adding agility training or even swimming to the daily sessions can help vary things up. Apartment dwellers may find that many buildings do not permit Bullboxer Pits to live with them. Some of the more common health problems Bullboxer Pits suffer from include: Obesity due to overeating. Lifespan Sociability Bullboxer Pits, like their parents, are very athletic and high-energy dogs that will need owners who can keep up with them. They are easy to train, thanks to their intelligence and eager-to-please nature, but you also might need to deal with some stubbornness. They are generally healthy, robust dogs and have an average lifespan for a dog their size. While they are friendly dogs, they are wary of strangers and any animals not from their household. The Bullboxer Pit is prone to becoming overweight. The Bullboxer Pit will do better with an experienced dog owner. This high-energy breed can be a challenge to train for a first-time owner. Combine this with their powerful physical strength, the Bullboxer Pit will require an owner who is experienced with dogs and up for a worthwhile challenge. The Bullboxer Pit is commonly used as guard and farm dogs. They are physically powerful dogs but also very devoted and protective, which makes them excellent working dogs. They are faithful, protective, and sometimes stubborn. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They make excellent watchdogs as they are very protective of their family, but they are also very friendly and loving with their family. However, they have a high prey drive and might react to small animals running, which needs to be taken into consideration. They should be fed smaller meals 2 or 3 times a day, about 2 to 3 cups a day. Using a variety of exercises such as swimming, chasing frisbees and balls, or even agility trials will help with the exercise requirements and from allowing your dog to become bored. A bored dog can become a destructive dog. Like most dogs, they respond best to patience, consistency, and positive reinforcement. Reward-based training , combined with lots of love and praise, will ensure the best outcome for your puppy. However, they do tend to shed, and weekly brushing will help with this. They should only be given a bath when necessary no more than once a month with a dog shampoo. The Bullboxer Pit has floppy ears that should be regularly cleaned as they might contain excess oils and wax. The American Pit Bull Terrier might also experience spinal cord disease and hip dysplasia, as well as kneecap dislocation, congenital heart defects , congenital eye defects, and particularly a predisposition to cataracts. Your Bullboxer Pit is a hybrid and not nearly as likely to experience these health issues, but having your vet check for the possibility is always a good idea. Minor Conditions: The Boxer might suffer from colitis, twisted spleen, corneal disease, and hypothyroidism. The American Pit Bull Terrier is also prone to hypothyroidism and a variety of skin problems such as mange and skin allergies. Male vs. Female In most dog breeds, one of the differences between males and females is in size and weight. The female Bullboxer Pit might range from 16 to 19 inches in height, whereas the male might be 17 to 20 inches. The female might weigh 50 to 70 pounds and the male 60 to 80 pounds. Having your female dog spayed is a more complicated surgery than neutering the male dog and, therefore, is more expensive and has a longer recovery time. The advantage of spaying or neutering your dog is the surgery could make your dog less aggressive and excitable and could prevent future health problems. Another possible difference between males and females is their temperament and behavior. There are debates on whether or not female dogs are less aggressive and more affectionate than males. But how your dog was socialized and trained as a puppy will be the primary indicator of how your dog will behave as an adult. Final Thoughts The Bullboxer Pit is a combination of friendly and fearless, as well as energetic and cuddly. Combining two powerful and devoted dogs like the Boxer and the American Pit Bull Terrier creates a perfect meld of these two breeds and brings out some of their best qualities into one dog. Starting your search for a Bullboxer Pit puppy can begin with speaking to breeders of Pit Bulls and Boxers. You might also talk to rescue groups or members of your local and national dog clubs and attend dog shows. Posting about your interest in finding one of these puppies in social media will be a great way to ensure your message is seen by a much larger audience. While the Bullboxer Pit is not a pet for beginners, the time and effort spent training one of these dogs will give you an amazing addition to your family. Very active families, people who are experienced with dogs Temperament Loyal, loving, intelligent, powerful, faithful, affectionate As a mixed breed, the Bull Boxer inherits qualities from both parents and is a large dog with a lifespan of years. Bull Boxers are extremely faithful, powerful, and great to have as guard dogs. The intelligence of this breed makes them fun to be around and play with. However, as they are intelligent and energetic, they are best suited for families that are very active and people who have experience with dogs already. History shows that Bulldogs were once used as fighting dogs, which can give any dog with Bulldog blood in it a bad name. Once the fighting of these dogs was outlawed, they quickly became affectionate family pets that are loyal to a fault. Dogs that are harder to train will require a bit more patience and practice. Proper exercise, nutrition, and hygiene also play an important role in the lifespan of your pet. More social dogs have a tendency to run up to strangers for pets and scratches, while less social dogs shy away and are more cautious, even potentially aggressive. Before you run out and adopt one of these adorable puppies, make sure that you have the energy to keep up with them. They are eager to please their owners, but Bull Boxer puppies come with a stubborn streak as well. They are healthy, robust, and have an average lifespan for a dog of that size. Intelligent enough to want to please her owner, the Bull Boxer does require a firm hand when it comes to training. Are These Dogs Good for Families? They love spending time with kids. However, they do require supervision around children who are very small. As long as your Bull Boxer is taught socialization skills as a puppy, you should have no problems with him getting along with other pets. However, this mixed breed does have a high prey drive and often reacts to small animals running, with the instinct to run after them. Things to Know When Owning a Bull Boxer: Owning a Bull Boxer will take time, money, and patience to make sure your dog is trained, socialized, healthy, and happy. As we said earlier in this guide, Bull Boxers love to eat, making it easy for them to overeat and become obese. If you feel that your dog is becoming overweight, speak to your vet about treatment and what can be done. As previously stated, walking your pet is a great way to exercise him, but he needs a minimum of 2 hours of some type of activity daily. A bored Bull Boxer can quickly turn into a destructive Bull Boxer; remember that. As with any dog, patience, love, praise, and consistency are the keys to success. It is best to brush them once a week, as they tend to shed quite a bit. As for giving your Bull Boxer a bath, use only the highest-quality shampoo and only bathe them once a month, unless they get into something where you have to. The Bull Boxer is no exception. We will go into the serious and minor health conditions you should keep an eye out for in your Bull Boxer in the next section. Minor Conditions.

Keep on reading to learn everything about French Bulldog puppies! French bulldogs All you need to know about Frenchies: a short summary History in a nutshell French Bulldogs were first bred as a smaller version of the English Bulldog in the 19th-century England. They were particularly popular among lacemakers in Nottinghamshire, who initially kept them to chase rats but soon fell in love with their small size and calm, friendly nature. After the Industrial Revolution, they had to move to southern France where lacemaking was still done by hand and took their dogs with them. Frenchies soon got popular in the circles of French artists, actors, writers in Paris as well as rich Americans visiting the city. In fact, they loved Frenchies so much that they took them to the US, where they finally got recognized by the AKC in .Frenchie Characteristics French Bulldogs are one of the most popular dog breeds thanks to their fun, adaptable, friendly nature and distinctive look. You can easily recognize them by their flat, heavily wrinkled faces and large, erect bat ears, which make them absolutely adorable. Despite having the strong, muscular body of a bulldog Frenchies are small in size: adult males usually weigh 20 to 28 pounds while females are 16 to 24 pounds. Frenchie Colors Frenchies come in a wide variety of different colors and patterns. There are standard French Bulldog colors like black, fawn, cream and patterns like pied and brindle, which are considered common for the breed. Rare and unique colors like blue and lilac, as well as patterns like tan and merle have gained more popularity in recent years. Frenchie Personality French Bulldogs probably have the biggest personality among all the dog breeds. They are funny, friendly and insanely affectionate, making them the perfect companions for anyone. They are also highly intelligent and need a fair amount of mental stimulation. Frenchies are like small children: simply irresistible! Giving only high- quality food, ensuring regular training and exercise, finding a good vet and not exposing them to too much heat is also essential to provide a long and happy life for your French Bulldog. They are little clowns who always do something silly to make you laugh! They are amazing companions who get along with everyone in the family from small kids to older people, other dog breeds and even cats. Shall we go on?! The exact amount usually depends on various factors like the color, gender and age of a puppy as well as the breeder you get your puppy from. Breeding Frenchies requires a lot of time, effort, care and money, so those who are dedicated to only having high-quality and healthy French Bulldog puppies will ask a larger sum starting from 4, USD. Colors and patterns considered common for the breed like black brindle and fawn have the lowest prices ranging from 4, to 5, USD, while blue, lilac and merle which are more unique and harder to produce come at a higher price as well ranging from 6, to 8, USD. Isabella and fluffy Frenchies are the rarest, most valuable and most expensive from 8, to 30, USD. When it comes to age and gender, younger female Frenchies usually cost a couple of hundreds more than older male puppies. What's included in the price? Life Span Did You Know? While the name of this breed is the French Bulldog, their origins cannot be credited to only France. One of the facts about French Bulldogs is that the idea and reason for the creation of the breed originated in England. This adorable dog breed, which has always been meant to be a companion, started as a miniature version of the English Bulldog. This mini-version accompanied lace workers across the English Channel and into France during the Industrial Revolution. Once the dog breed became prominent in France, the subsequent successful crossbreeding of the English Bulldog, Pug, and Terrier led to the creation of the modern-day Frenchie. The French Bulldog we know today originally came to the United States with groups of wealthy Americans who came across them and fell in love while touring Europe in the late s. The French Bulldog was recognized by the American Kennel Club in and is a member of the non-sporting group. The French Bulldog is an easygoing, affectionate, and playful dog that loves their family and gets along well with children. They also love to make new friends, which means they get along well with other dogs, animals, and people. Intelligent and affectionate, this small dog breed certainly wins over hearts and earns its status as a popular companion dog. Frenchies are not known to bark much, unless you train them into it, but they are naturally alert and make excellent watchdogs. As long as they are well-socialized and trained, they tend to have an open and friendly nature. The Frenchie is a highly adaptable dog that pretty much adapts to any living situation that includes plenty of love and attention. Being a short-snouted, snub-nosed dog breed, they do not tolerate heat very well and are also sensitive to cold. This tends to make them one of the dog breeds that hate winter and you will want to make sure to bundle them up to stay warm while out on cold winter walks. Because Frenchies bond closely with their families and thrive on attention from them, they do not tolerate long periods of time alone. They can also be prone to developing separation anxiety if they are poorly socialized or you do not work with them on this when they are young. Potential health concerns to be aware of in French Bulldogs can include cataracts, cherry eye, and entropion. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies. Reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both parents. You can also ask about any health tests or clearances. Heart and joint certifications are recommended for this breed. Playful and happy, the French Bulldog is a great fit for a novice dog owner. They are sweet-tempered, eager to please, and eager to train. Occasionally, Frenchies can be stubborn and they do tend to have big personalities. Although this can sometimes be a challenge for first-time dog owners, it can usually be overcome with consistent and patient training. Puppy training classes are always an option and offer plenty of benefits aside from training. Standard coat colors for Frenchies are Brindle, Cream, Fawn, and combinations of these. They have a short coat that will shed a little year-round. Nail trims once or twice a month keep nails from growing too long and causing issues. Weekly ear checks, along with careful cleanings as needed, can help prevent ear infections. As a small dog breed, the Frenchie is more prone to developing gum disease. Daily dental care plus cleanings at the vet as needed can help prevent this and other painful dental diseases later in life. You will also need to take care of the wrinkles. Frenchies have hereditary face wrinkles and it is important to keep them clean and dry to prevent skin irritation or possible infection. The French Bulldog is an easygoing companion breed. They can be one of the laziest dog breeds that are couch potatoes. Frenchies will often be energetic when they play and will try to match their activity to yours. So, if you live a more active lifestyle, you need to be careful that your French Bulldog is not overexerting themselves trying to keep up with you. As a Brachycephalic or snub-nosed dog, they cannot cool themselves as easily and are extra sensitive to heat. They can also get winded easily, so be aware of this when playing with your dog or puppy and watch for signs of overexertion. There are safe ways to exercise flat-faced dogs and you can work with your vet on specifics for your Frenchie if needed. French Bulldogs usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Frenchies generally live for years on average. With this dog breed being so popular, there are plenty of celebrities who have chosen the French Bulldog as their companion, which also means there are plenty of famous Frenchies out there. Also, French Bulldogs cannot swim, at least without a life vest. They can be taught to swim while wearing one, but they should never be left unattended around bodies of water or swimming pools and require constant supervision while in the water. Featured French Bulldog Article. We are located in beautiful Missouri State and have owned Frenchies for many years. We just cannot get enough of them and enjoy the love, entertainment, and companionship that they bring. As a family we breed and raise superior quality puppies and strive for perfection, health, confirmation and as a bonus rare, luxurious colors such as the Blue, Blue Tan, and Black Tan. All our puppies are registered with the American Kennel Club and are raised as part of the family, with unconditional love and care. They are introduced to small children, and household pets in the process, and are started on potty training before they leave our home. We have spent many years studying and researching the amazing breed, in order to welcome top quality, hand selected Frenchies into our breeding program. We have families who come back to us more than once because the quality of our puppies speaks for itself. We have so much passion for this breed as they complete what we call home. Although we are located in Missouri, we are able to ship puppies across the United States. Contact us for more information about shipping options. The exceptional quality of our French Bulldogs speaks for itself. Browse through our site, and you will see! Contact us today to learn more about Luxurious French Bulldogs and to schedule a visit to meet our Frenchies.

Digital Marketing Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a small commission if you decided to make a purchase, at no additional cost to you. Every dog has a different tolerance for the cold. Read on to find out more. Long-haired GSDs can withstand even colder temperatures. Yet, factors like age, health conditions, activity level, and weight may also affect their ability to stand the cold weather. Unlike some breeds who were bred to live and sleep in the snow, like Sebastian Huskies, Saint Bernards, and Malamutes, German Shepherds were bred to live and work with people and livestock. The fact is, the German Shepherd is a breed of dog that has a double coat. This means that there are two layers of fur. Their outer coat is long and coarse, and it is there to protect the dog against snow and ice. The undercoat is thick and soft, and it insulates the dog against cold in the winter as well as heat in the summer. Many owners have shared that their GSDs literally love the snow. Their pooches were fine even after being out in the snow for one to two hours. And when they are cold, they will come inside. Depending on their coat length, age, weight, lifestyle, and diet, German Shepherds will do alright even below zero, as long as they are on the move and are not left outside for a prolonged period of time. How cold is too cold for your German Shepherd? If the temperature gets too far below, your dog will have trouble regulating its temperature. However, there are a few exceptions to this. For example, if your pup is a long-haired German Shepherd with a thick fur coat, eats a healthy diet, or is muscular, he may be able to withstand even lower temperatures. How long can your German Shepherd stay in below zero temperature? Your GSD can go outside for 15 to 20 minutes at below-freezing temperatures for potty breaks. All dogs also have ways to retain heat. For one, their bushy tail can be used to cover the face and keep it warm while sleeping. Also, as a German Shepherd curls up, he retains heat better while sleeping. Raising the coat hairs also helps to trap heat and keep the body warm. These factors include: Age German Shepherd puppies have a thin fur coat that makes winter very hard on them. Their muscles are also underdeveloped, making it hard to regulate body heat well. Feeding your puppy a highly nutritious diet and giving them a warm coat can help them stay warm during winter. On the other hand, older dogs may also have trouble regulating their body heat as well. Over time, older dogs lose their hair and muscles, and their immune systems may dwindle as they age. It is usually best to not take a senior German Shepherd into the severe cold too often. In case you live in an area with a very cold winter, you may keep your young or old dog warm with a vest while going outside. Activity Level If a German Shepherd is highly active and always on the move, he can keep himself warm on a chilly day just by staying busy. This should not be a problem if your dog is healthy. They can run for at least several hours a day for sure. This is a dog who is bred to go all day regardless of the temperature, and all that activity helps to keep your Shepherd warm. Weight If your German Shepherd is slim and seems to be losing weight, this means he may not have enough muscle and body fat to keep him warm. Both of these are important to maintain heat. In really cold weather conditions, the body fat can be converted to extra energy to keep your pup warm. Protein from meat and salmon is a calorie-dense nutrient. And many of the high-protein diets are extremely high in calories and can lead to being overweight. Health conditions If your dog eats a balanced diet and has enough physical and mental stimulation during the day, he is a happy and healthy dog that can stay active to keep himself warm in cold weather. However, when your dog is sick, their bodies automatically take extra energy and direct it toward healing. This leaves very little energy left to help the dog stay warm. This is why it is best to keep any sick German Shepherds inside where it is nice and warm. What to look for when your dog reacts to colder temperatures? Again, not all German Shepherds have the same ability to regulate their body heat temperatures, and they may struggle with colder temperatures. If it seems like your dog is shivering when it gets colder, you need to keep them inside or give them some added layers of protection. Simple cold-weather caring tips for dogs You may assume that your Shepherd will be able to handle the cold with no problem. However, even if your dog seems to be having a great time in the snow, there are some things that you can do to make it safer and easier for them: Paw Balm Paw balm has been used throughout history to protect the paws of dogs who have to track over ice and snow. The formula even includes vitamin E to heal any wounds as well as keep the paws healthy. It can protect them from ice, snow, and salt. Key Benefits: Premium paw balm helps to protect and soothe cracked pads and paws. Moisturizing formula made from premium ingredients. Safe, non-toxic, natural protection includes white beeswax, yellow beeswax and coconut. Easy to apply and you can reapply as needed. Made in the USA. German Shepherds have a double coat, with a dense undercoat and a coarser outer coat, which provides them with some insulation against cold weather. But how cold is too cold, and can your German Shepherd live outside? We answer both those questions and more here. While German Shepherds can tolerate a wide range of temperatures, they can get cold just like people can. Shaking and shivering are tell-tale signs, and if your dog is exhibiting these signs, they need to come inside to warm up. That said, you might be surprised how long your dog can stay out in the cold before they need to come inside! However, they should always have access to shelter and water to keep them happy and healthy. The shelter should be insulated and protect them from the elements, and that includes both the rain and wind. Finally, you still need to spend time with your German Shepherd, even if they are outside most of the day. We also recommend having more than one dog because this will give them more companionship while outside. German Shepherds have two insulating coats, which is a big reason that they do well in colder environments. For starters, they need access to housing and insulation. Their shelter needs to protect them from rain, wind, and anything else that the great outdoors can throw at them. Wind and rain quickly lower how much your German Shepherd can handle being outside. They need to have a way to escape the weather if it gets too cold. Of course, this can be your home, but it also can be a shelter for them outside. The important part is that your German Shepherd can access whatever they need when they need it. Rather, their coat acts as insulation. During the summer months, it keeps your dog cool, and during the winter months, it keeps them warm. Working Dogs vs. Pets Whether you should house your German Shepherd outside comes down to one important factor: if you want a working dog or a pet. Still, since German Shepherds are extremely social animals, we highly recommend getting more than one dog and spending time with them even if they are a working dog. Keep in mind that this area should not include their shelter. So, if their shelter takes up square feet, their entire area should take up at least 4, square feet. Use common sense and keep an eye on your pup. Featured Image Credit: adamikarl, Shutterstock Contents. What naturally prepares your Shepherd for cold weather? Your German Shepherd has a few characteristics and instinctual behaviors that will help keep her warm. Shepherds have a thick double-coat. Most German Shepherds have a medium-length outer layer of guard hairs with a thick fleecy undercoat. Their outer coat is dense and the stiff hairs usually lie flat. Orvis News points out this coarseness also means the coat has a water-repellant quality. Its purpose is insulation, and it serves GSDs in both hot and cold weather. In the frigid cold, the undercoat is further insurance that body heat does not escape. You should note that German Shepherds can have three varieties of coat lengths in addition to the standard plush. Short outer coat with a normal thick undercoat. Long-haired with an undercoat — These dogs also have feathering which consists of tufts on the ears and pants on the hind legs. Their hair will be much thicker in appearance than other feathered breeds like the Golden Retriever. Long-haired dog with no undercoat A German Shepherd has a low surface area. Animals living in colder climates often have a larger body mass than those who do not. Have you ever wondered why a Chihuahua struggles to stay warm at 45 degrees Fahrenheit while a Labrador seems in Paradise? It is not solely because of their coat. Large-breed dogs have less surface area over which heat can escape. Per the AKC , the breed standard for the German Shepherd calls for a height of 22 to 26 inches at the top of the shoulders and a weight of 50 to 90 pounds. As you probably know, many Shepherds are much larger than the breed standard. Muscles keep your dog warm. Although not as buff as a Staffordshire Terrier or Bull Mastiff, your Shepherd has great muscling under his fur. Muscles generate heat through metabolism and as a last resort through effective shivering. Dogs have special attributes to keep warm. According to Dog Discoveries , all dogs have basic traits and behaviors to stay warm when it is cold out. Your German Shepherd is better adapted than some other breeds. Bushy tail to cover face when sleeping — Dogs will often sleep in a curled position to minimize heat loss and GSDs have exceptionally bushy tails to keep nose and eyes warm. Piloerection — When your German Shepherd puffs up, her guard hairs and undercoat trap cold air away from her skin and body. A German Shepherd in his prime can handle temperatures 20 degrees Fahrenheit fairly easily. He can tolerate temperatures even as low as to degrees Fahrenheit for short periods and as long as he stays dry. Some Shepherds should not be exposed to extremely cold temperatures because of their decreased ability to cope. Puppies — Very young dogs are small, lack muscle mass, have minimal body fat, do not have a proper fur coat, and have underdeveloped temperature regulation centers in the brain. They cannot shiver effectively and have a large surface-area-to-body-volume ratio. Senior dogs — Aging dogs lose muscle mass and immune functions and sometimes their hair. Do not subject elder dogs to extremes in temperature for long periods. Sick dogs — Dealing with the energy needs of an illness, especially chronic, prevents your German Shepherd from handling cold weather effectively. Chronic illness may lead to loss of muscle and fat. Dogs without an undercoat — If your dog does not have an undercoat, avoid prolonged exposure to temperatures below freezing, regardless of his coat length. Dogs lacking condition — Dogs who are malnourished or suffering from another cause of weight loss do not have the energy stores to cope when it is exceedingly cold outside. Even a balmy 45 degrees Fahrenheit may be too cold for them. What do you need to provide your dog when it is cold? Have you acclimated your dog to cold weather? Even if your dog is accustomed to staying outdoors in all conditions for eight to 12 hours, she needs basic amenities. Not only is it the law in many areas, but it ensures her comfort and well-being. Freshwater — Although it seems common sense, water provides the hydration necessary for all metabolic processes, including staying warm. Shelter — Your German Shepherd needs shelter from the wind. A doghouse will also protect from rain, sleet, and snow, and provides additional insulation. Breed Info One of the reasons why German Shepherds became among the most popular breeds in the world is that they can tolerate all sorts of climates. In fact, early GSDs were bred to herd sheep even in intensely cold weather. Do German Shepherds Get Cold? Just like any other breed, German Shepherds do get cold. But thanks to their robust bodies and double coats, they tolerate low temperatures better than most breeds. In fact, many GSDs love playing in snow. Whereas, the outer coat act as guard hairs to repel moisture and keep the cold from reaching the body. It is important to note, however, that the density of undercoats differ between individual dogs. Body Structure German Shepherds have robust bodies that allow them to stay comfortable in low temperatures. They have a good ratio of muscle and fat to keep their vital organs insulated. Additionally, dogs in general have a remarkable paw structure, which features a network of blood vessels that ensures blood is warmed up before it is pumped back throughout the rest of the body. Additionally, many GSDs will instinctively engage in physical activity when the weather gets cold in an effort to keep their bodies warm. How cold is too cold for a German Shepherd to be outside? Besides, they benefit tremendously from the physical and mental stimulation. There are several factors that could make your German Shepherd less tolerant of the cold. These include: Age German Shepherd puppies have not had the chance to develop their robust bodies and lush coats, and so will have a lower tolerance for frosty weather. Health If your dog is malnourished or has an underlying health condition, they might not have enough fat and flesh to insulate their vital organs. It might not take much to make them feel too cold. Undercoat Not all GSDs have thick or woolly coats. Dampness Guard hairs can only do so much. Ways to Tell if Your Dog is Cold The more time you spend bonding with your dog, the better connection you have. When dogs shiver, their muscles use stored energy to create small involuntary movements in an effort to generate warmth. Needing to Curl Up At the onset of cold weather, many dogs will try to become more active to keep their bodies warm. But eventually, they will instinctively try to preserve their energy and keep warm by curling up. They do so by burrowing or nesting, ideally in proper beddings. Even when standing, they will try to preserve body heat by hunching their back and tucking their tail in. Showing Signs of Stress When they become uncomfortable in the cold, dogs will exhibit signs of anxiety. German Shepherds are particularly vocal, so they might howl , bark , and whine. Lethargy As their bodies focus on keeping their vital organs warm, dogs often become lethargic when they feel too cold. This might be accompanied by dilated pupils. Ways to Keep Your Dog Warm in Colder Weather As winter approaches, a good rule of thumb is to keep your dog indoors unless supervised for potty and play. Generally, these are what you need to keep them safe and comfortable in cold weather: Keep them indoors. The most important thing to keep your dog safe in frigid temperatures is to let them stay indoors. Always make sure they have proper shelter than protects them from snow, wind, and rain. Ensure access to fresh water. Proper hydration will help your dog tolerate the chilly weather. Provide proper beddings. Give your dog thicker blankets so they can bundle up when they want to. You can even roll the blankets up and shape them in a circle so your dog can nest. An elevated bed keeps their body further away from the cold as they sleep. Increase their food servings. Just being in frosty weather makes your dog use up more energy. So, feed them more food to keep their bodies from using their fat and muscle stores for energy. Protect their paws. Additionally, if you have a long-coated GSD, make sure you keep their paws trimmed short since their fur can soak up dampness from the ground and make them more susceptible to hypothermia. Get some clothes. Dog clothes are generally unnecessary for GSDs unless temperatures reach critically low levels or your dog is particularly sensitive to the cold. In those cases, additional insulation through dog sweaters or vests will be helpful. Avoid bathing. Instead, brush them often to remove dirt and debris, remove loose hair, and keep their skin and coat healthy. What to do if you Suspect your Dog has Hypothermia Hypothermia is a serious condition caused by exposure to low temperatures. It could lead to heart failure, comatose, or even death. If a vet is not immediately available, take the following steps: Step 1: Dry them up. Soak up what you can with a towel and use a hairdryer to dry them up and give them warmth at the same time. Step 2: Keep them warm. Step 3: Check their temperature. Otherwise, watch them closely as they warm up. Step 4: Monitor their progress. Check their temperature every 10 minutes. As soon as their body temperature returns to normal, you can remove the heat but keep them bundled up. Final Thoughts The bodies of German Shepherds are built to tolerate the cold much better than other breeds. However, they do still feel cold and excessive exposure to low temperatures still poses severe danger. Dogs vary individually regarding tolerance to temperature and although adaptable, German Shepherds have limitations too. Although dog coats are adorable and you want to see your dog sporting the latest fashion, a coat is not necessary for your German Shepherd. These dogs are born with a coat of their own. German Shepherds have thick double coats of fur that provide an amazing job of keeping them warm. Strictly from a physical point of view, German Shepherds are equally able to cope as indoor or outdoor dogs. However, these dogs become extremely attached to their human families and crave interaction and reassurance. Since German Shepherds have a lush double coat of fur, physically they are able to withstand significantly cold temperatures, but that heavy coat also causes discomfort and poses potential dangers in extremely hot climates. Having a good combination of indoor and outdoor activity is ideal. Should German Shepherds Sleep Outside? German Shepherds can sleep outside however as a puppy they should not sleep outside until around four months of age. Younger puppies cannot regulate their body temperature and are more susceptible to sickness and disease. A German Shepherd puppy also needs this time to bond with its human family. As your German Shepherd matures into adulthood, they may prefer sleeping outside but, in a bed, with close proximity to the family. If your dog is going to be sleeping outside you need to provide a well-insulated kennel to protect them from colder temperatures. During the warmer months, it is necessary to provide adequate ventilation and airflow for the kennel. Despite having a warm coat of fur, additional warmth is necessary for your German Shepherd during colder temperatures. Just as you do for your own bed, keep plenty of blankets for your dog in the winter months. If your Shepherd already has a blanket used during the warmer months consider switching it out for a blanket better insulated for colder temperatures. As previously mentioned, ensure that your German Shepherd has adequate sheltering. Give their kennel or shelter an inspection to ensure that it is dry and prevents drafting. Whenever possible an elevated shelter, preferably about four inches off the ground, is best for keeping your dog warm. Inspect their paws after being in the cold and wipe away any ice or snow to check for cracking and drying out of the pads. If you have a German Shepherd that cooperates, you may want to have them fitted with booties to protect their paws from the elements. Their stout bodies and double coats make it easier for them to endure colder temperatures than most other breeds. Shepherds possess a low surface-area-to-volume ratio which means there is less surface area over which heat escapes. Muscles generate heat through metabolism and although not the buffest, German Shepherds have great muscle tone underneath their fur. Activity Levels German Shepherds are a highly active dog breed and need adequate time outdoors. While your dog cannot spend all of his time outdoors in freezing temperatures, he can manage short amounts of time in extremely cold temperatures. Just like their owners, being in the cold too long can cause them to get sick. Coughing Coughing is a definite sign that your dog has caught a cold. Similar to the common cold of humans, dogs can catch a cold that produces similar symptoms. It is important to watch for other symptoms that indicate something more serious than the common cold. Sneezing Your German Shepherd can sneeze due to allergies to various elements such as dust or pollen. However, it can also be a sign that your pup has a cold. Just like humans, German Shepherds get colds and it makes them feel lethargic and feverish just like you. While a runny nose may be because of allergies or just because they are excited to see you, it can also be a sign of infection and a runny nose accompanying other symptoms may warrant a trip to the vet. How to Treat a German Shepherd with a Cold? If your German Shepherd has a cold, there are things you can do to make them more comfortable as they recuperate. It is most effective and safe to place a humidifier in the area where your German Shepherd sleeps, however, if not available place your dog in the room with a hot steamy shower running. Even if your Shepherd has food and water left over from the day, provide fresh food each day instead of leaving the old. If needed, get them out to do a stroll around the block, but make sure that they are getting plenty of rest. Give Your Dog Plenty of Fluids Hydration is a priority for your dog with a cold especially because it helps them breathe by thinning the nasal mucous. Make sure that your dog is drinking by checking their water intake and if they just do not feel like drinking water offer something like chicken soup low sodium of course. Nutritious food is vital for recovery which means offering something that will appeal to your dog like chicken and brown rice. When to Consult with a Vet? With rest and extra love and care, your German Shepherd should feel better in no time. But if that cold seems to drag on and your dog is not feeling better then it may be time for a trip to the vet to rule out something more serious. Final thoughts Overall, German Shepherds can tolerate the cold, but as with any dog breed, they have their limits. While cold temperatures do not bother these dogs, prolonged exposure to extreme cold weather is unhealthy and not reasonable for this breed. As long as they are not forced outside for long periods of time, it is safe to say that German Shepherds can be safe in the cold thanks to their thick fur. Generally tired with low energy A dry nose and gums Loss of skin elasticity If you take your dog inside and these symptoms or behaviors do not improve quickly, then you need to take your dog to the veterinarian immediately. Intervention at this stage is critical to avoid a potentially life-threatening issue. Note on skin elasticity According to dr. Jerry Klein, the chief veterinarian for the AKC, skin elasticity is probably the easiest way to check if your dog is dehydrated. Watch carefully as it falls back into place. In well-hydrated dogs, the skin instantly will spring back to its original position. T he skin of dehydrated dogs, on the other hand, will take longer to fall back into place. Always make sure that your dog has a clean supply of fresh water at all times. Though as a general rule, dogs should drink about an ounce of water per pound of their body weight per day. Additionally, make sure that your dog always has access to shade. Just like you seek out shade on a hot day, so does your dog. A dog kept in the hot sun without access to shade can quickly overheat and begin to dehydrate. However, this aspect of grooming a GSD is often misunderstood. Similar to an insulated home, it actually traps cool air and keeps it in. So, do not be overly eager when brushing your GSD. Take care to lightly brush your GSD and remove only the hair that is already shedding on its own. Removing more hair than that will disrupt its natural layering and may cause your GSD to become too hot. Cold weather All of my German Shepherds have loved the snow. You may have experienced that they love to chase snowballs and just romp around having a good time. But in this instance, I still keep a close eye on them because even though the air temperature is warm, they are still walking on the frozen ground and the pads on their paws are still susceptible to freezing on ice and snow. This is different for dogs that are acclimated to the cold weather. Typically, German Shepherds, once acclimated, can stay outside in very cold weather for long periods of time. But if you have a mostly inside dog during the winter, it is the sudden change in temperature that you need to be careful of. So use your common sense, consider how much time your dog does spend outside, keep an eye on your dog and adjust accordingly. Bringing your dog inside from the cold After a walk in the snow, it is good practice to thoroughly dry off your dog when it returns inside. Not only does that lessen the smell of a wet dog, it also protects your dog from a few potential hazards which you may not have occurred to you. While your dog is walking, especially if you live in a city, it can step on a number of things that are harmful to it. And since dogs have a tendency to lick their paws, they can ingest these things. Frostbite Just like you, your dog can get hypothermia or frostbite. Be aware if your dog is experiencing frostbite. It can actually take several days before there is any clear indication of frostbite. At that time, the frostbitten area may become inflamed and painful to your dog. So check on these frequently. It is also a good idea to trim the hair between its pads. Cold weather and cars Just like you would never leave your dog in a hot car during the summer time, the same goes for leaving your dog in the car during winter. In cold temperatures, your car is basically a refrigerator. Be aware of this, and do not leave your dog in the car on a cold day for an extended period of time. This is because snow and ice will mask the scents that your dog is used to following to find its way back home. This happens to many dogs each winter. So in addition to keeping your dog on a leash during walks, make sure that it has a snug-fitting collar with the proper identification tags in case your dog does become separated from you. Feeding considerations Staying warm burns calories. So be aware of this, and make sure that your dog is getting a high-quality diet in the proper amounts. You may need to increase how much you feed your dog during the winter if it spends a fair amount of time outside. If you are unsure of exactly how much your dog should be eating, consult with your veterinarian, as each dog has its own individual requirements. Puppies If you are dealing with a puppy during hot and cold weather, keep in mind that they are not as developed as their full-grown counterparts. Because of this, they will be much less tolerant of heat or cold. Afford your puppy the same considerations that you would to a child in these circumstances. The key being to not overdo it in any one area with your puppy — spend less time in the heat, spend less time in the cold, be extra attentive to any signs of distress. And if possible, make sure that your puppy lives indoors. While a GSD can live outdoors, it is not recommended at a young age. An outdoor puppy is at a much higher risk to develop an illness or be adversely affected by extremes in weather. Final thoughts Although GSDs can live and thrive in just about any weather, your dog still needs all of the basics like food, water, and shelter. Especially if you live in an area that experiences extremes in weather. Treat your GSD with the same consideration that you would a person whom you deeply care about — because your dog most certainly cares about you, and it deserves as much love back from you as it gives to you.

Train your Frenchie here! You should start training your French Bulldog puppy as soon as you get them home. Puppy brains are a lot bigger than we think — they soak up so much good information despite their young age. French Bulldogs can be a rather independent breed of dog. In fact, we sometimes might feel like we need them more than they need us! What age can I start to train my French Bulldog puppy? You can start training your French Bulldog puppy as soon as you get them home. Build positive training experiences with Zigzag! We can start you off with a personalised training programme straight away in the Zigzag puppy training app , in fact, you can even use it before you bring your Frenchie puppy home as we have a pre-puppy section. Before bringing your French Bulldog puppy home, you can also get in touch with our Zigzag puppy experts with any of the many questions you may have! While blingy collars and outfits might be top of the list, there are some more sensible things you need to get your French Bulldog puppy that will help with your training. Here are my top picks for getting prepared for training your Frenchie. My favourite all-rounder is the Rapid Rewards treat pouch , it comes in many colours and looks stylish when on. The Mikki treat pouch is also good and a bit cheaper. You can go to town and choose pretty colours and designs for Frenchies! A lead — Around 2m is a good length for a lead. A training lead is a good idea as you can change the lengths of them to suit. A comfortable mat or a piece of non-slip vet bed. Treats The more smelly, the better. Have a look at the best puppy treats here. Chews and chew toys — lots of them! Our faves for Frenchies are West Paw Toppl and hollow buffalo horns for stuffing food into, and cow ears and pizzles for edible chews. Two identical toys : Excellent for swaps — your French Bulldog puppy will be super playful and enjoy the retrieving games in the Zigzag app. Originally, French Bulldogs were bred from English Bulldogs, who had a shady past as bull-baiting dogs. People enjoyed their cheerful nature and kept them as companion dogs after these awful blood sports were prohibited. When the need for these workers declined in England, their skills were still required in France, so the workers relocated, bringing their dogs with them. Relocate your training to Zigzag! When they arrived in France, they were adored by shopkeepers, butchers, and, most infamously, Les Belles de Nuit — the ladies of the night! What does this have to do with how I train my French Bulldog? Knowing the characteristics of the breed will help you better train your Frenchie puppy and understand why they behave the way they do. Here are a few things to keep in mind: Frenchies are incredibly loving and enjoy being in the spotlight. They can have a lot of energy possibly even more than a lot of energy and enjoy an active home life. Lack of stimulation WILL foster self-employment; provide them with items to rip up and pull apart to keep them out of trouble. By the way, if you leave them to it, they WILL go into your recycling and have a field day. Frenchies often think they are big dogs, thus they often do well playing with dogs larger than them. They look dashing in them too! Pin2 2 Shares Once the excitement of bringing your French Bulldog puppy home for the first time is over, the reality will soon start to bite as will the puppy. I remember my wife and I wondering what we had let ourselves in for on that first night of crying and howling! Bringing our French Bulldog puppy home to meet our son for the first time was an amazing experience. Bringing your French bulldog puppy home am: Paid via online bank transfer It was the morning of the pick-up! I transferred the money via online banking, then called the breeder who confirmed receipt you can see how much it costs to buy a Frenchie here — it was now time to go pick up our Frenchie puppy! Injections and vaccinations are super important, and I explain more about it in the questions you should ask a breeder before you buy a Frenchie. We were now the proud owners of a French Bulldog and were ready to bring him home! Ideally any dog should be properly restrained in your car when driving, and now Claude is older we use his own car booster seat. Claude the puppy was fine with the drive, but in some cases Frenchies can get car sick. This meant my wife and I had until 3pm to get Claude settled into our house so he was ready for his first day home. The things that I remember very clearly are how he wanted to run around the house sniffing at everything and getting used to his new surroundings. And then, we had to introduce him to our cat! Claude was a lot smaller than her, but being a puppy, he just wanted to run up to her and find out what she was all about. As you would expect, he wolfed it all down in super quick time! For guidance on how much to feed a Frenchie puppy, take a look at this feeding chart. I went to pick our 3-year-old up from nursery — he had no idea we had bought a dog! In the video below you can see the moment when my son met Claude for the first time! This is all because of their vaccinations, with public walks only advisable 2 weeks after their final set of injections which is around the week point. You can read more about how this work in this guide to when your puppy can go outside. He also had his third and final feed of the day at around .He was quite happy to snuggle up to us Frenchies are very cuddly , but we did make sure to take him downstairs every hour to try to get him used to peeing in the same place. You should try to get your puppy into a routine as soon as possible. Bringing our French Bulldog puppy home for the first time had proven to be an exhausting experience. It was now time for us to go to sleep, and we were hoping Claude would too! And, oh, how mistaken we were. What we did was place his crate in the corner of our bedroom. We put him in the crate, shut the door, and switched our lights off. Within 10 seconds he started crying and howling. It was heart-wrenching. We let him cry in his crate for a few minutes before we could take it no more. Handy Hint: Read my guide about French Bulldog crying and how you can start to stop them whining in their crate at night. We got him out and let him come back onto our bed for another 45 minutes then tried again. Frenchies really do suffer quite badly with separation anxiety , and at this age need you so much. We let him come back onto bed for another cuddle and gave him lots of reassurance. He had a comfy blanket in there and lots of cuddly toys here are the toys we used and this time fell to sleep… success! But it does get better… over time he will forget about his mother and siblings and start to view you as his family. The crying will stop over time, and a regular sleeping pattern will develop. In the graphic below you can see what to expect as your Frenchie gets older and how many hours they will sleep a day. The following days… Over the following days we tried to get Claude to sleep in his crate downstairs. It was impossible to do without lots of crying. In the end we gave up and kept him in his crate in our room for about 8 weeks. After two months we decided it was time for his crate to go in the kitchen. We had to be quite tough at first, as he cried the first couple of nights, but soon developed into his routine — him and our cat actually now share a bed! Claude would constantly be attacking our feet, chasing our shoelaces, chewing things like tables, door mats, shoes, and we would have to hide everything away out of his sight! Prepare to puppy-proof your home Firstly, prepare your home. You almost need to chew-proof everything. Also make sure that any potential escape routes and sealed off! We got a 42 inch one knowing that it would be ok for him as he got bigger and older. Inside his crate we placed some soft bedding and a few toys, plus laid down a puppy pad view on Amazon in the corner for him to pee on in the night. Get some toys and things to play with Frenchies love to play. We bought Claude a couple of stuffed toys, a Kong for teething on , and a few balls. You can see all the toys he still loves to play with here. It contains all the nutrition growing puppies need, plus… and this is a biggie… is said to reduce their terrible farts! You can buy Royal Canin Frenchie puppy food on Amazon. Be prepared to give him your undivided attention and be prepared for lots of crying at night. The sooner you can get this behavior ingrained into them, the quicker they will learn. Your first pet will most likely feel threatened and protective over his territory and get jealous. Here are my tips for introducing your French bulldog to a new puppy. It has something to do with their scent — puppies have a different smell than adult pups. He stopped drooling around her after a couple days. Apart from that, have your dog meet your new puppy for the time first time in an open location, like a large park If possible, let them reach the meeting location at the same time and keep the leashes loose or even off-leash. Sometimes on-leash, dogs can become more agitated and aggressive. Let them eat individually with their own dishes. Let your first pet go straight into the house while your new pup runs around the yard. This is because at night, dogs have a harder time seeing one another, which can put them on edge. And at mealtimes, many pups can get territorial. That includes feeding dishes, toys, beddings and other shared items. Additionally, clean up their common area and let the existing pet have an idea that another pet is set to arrive. Weston went in there occasionally to roll around in the bed and mark it with his scent. Whenever we left the house, we had Fira stay inside her playpen which was her safe place. Play with them, train them together and always give lots and lots of love to the older pet. He will also make his own rules with the new sibling, so allow him to create his own boundaries and teach the younger one his rules, how to play and more. Fira never did it again. Interactions between your Frenchie and your new puppy should not be forced. Weston did such a great job teaching Fira how to play and wrestle. Follow us on Instagram wtfrenchie to see all our updates in real-time. Related Posts. Here are a quick overview and the 9 most important factors to keep in mind. After all, they are all bulldogs, right? Not exactly. So, what do you need to know before getting a French Bulldog puppy? What are the key characteristics that make French Bulldogs special? French Bulldogs share a lot of characteristics with their larger English Bulldog cousins. Like all other bulldogs, Frenchies are great with kids! Their short legs and front-heavy bodies make them the worst swimmers in the canine world! They grow up to 11 or 13 inches on average 28 to 33 cm and they rarely weigh more than 8 pounds 13 kg. They have adorably large bat-like ears — this is the signature trait of Frenchies, their hilarious ears. Fortunately, many American breeders insisted on continuing to breed Frenchies with their breed-defining bat-like ears. Longer lifespan. While, as a larger breed, English Bulldogs live up to 8 to 10 years on average, Frenchies live a bit more. On average, a French Bulldog can live up to 10 or 12 years. And, with good care and a bit of luck, they can live more than that too! As you can see, French Bulldogs are not just miniature versions of their larger English Bulldogs predecessors. So, what exactly do you need to know before getting a French Bulldog puppy? Here are the 9 most important points: 1. Many breeds require lots of outdoor time — walking, running, playing, etc. So, which group do French Bulldogs belong to? They fall right in the middle. They are usually fine with two quick walks outside per day and spending the rest of their time at home. Not only do Frenchies prefer to stay at home, but they also should never be allowed close to a swimming pool, river, lake, the sea, or even a full bath. So, even during your brief outdoor walks, make sure that you avoid large bodies of water. And if you have a swimming pool in your backyard — getting a French Bulldog might be a bad idea. Frenchies are incredibly affectionate dogs. French Bulldogs are very playful and active dogs which makes them great for young kids who also need frequent interactions and playtime. Simply put, if you have a Frenchie and a baby under the same roof, you can be sure that neither of them will be bored. Frenchies are downright adorable — their short snout and large bat-like years are traits most kids love with a passion! And they are happy to use their vocabulary every day too! Frenchies will still alert you whenever they perceive danger, of course. This makes Frenchies a fantastic breed for condo and apartment dwellers as the Frenchie is unlikely to bother your neighbors or landlord. There are multiple reasons for this: Frenchies have very short coats. Not to mention that the little time they need to spend outdoors is usually spent just running on the clean pavement instead of rolling in the mud like certain other breeds like to do. Frenchies shed their coats seasonally or only twice per year. French Bulldogs require nothing more than occasional grooming. Still, keep in mind that Frenchies are not hypoallergenic. Come up with new games and new toys from time to time — intelligent dogs can still love their old toys and games but they need new ones. However, all bulldogs were initially used for bull-baiting which was a complex and physically-demanding job that required lots of quick thinking. If you work out of the house and you have a Frenchie you absolutely have to give your dog extra attention before going out. Leaving a hyper-active and easily-bored dog alone for an extended period of time is a big No-No. Or, that he or she gets through them quickly and easily.

All dogs are unique and grow at their own rate. Pro Tip: Check out our complete guide to puppy care to ensure your Lab gets off to a great start. As a medium to large breed, Labrador Retrievers need at least one year to reach their full size. A general rule of thumb suggests your Lab should be at or close to its full size by their first birthday. However, bigger-boned Lab puppies can keep growing and filling out their chest up to 18 months old. How big should a 6-month-old Labrador Retriever be? The average Lab weight at six months old is about 40 to 55 pounds for males or 30 to 35 pounds for females. Please keep in mind that these numbers are averages, and every puppy will grow at a slightly different rate. How much bigger will my Labrador Retriever get? There are three ways to predict the size of a Labrador Retriever at maturity: Age. Labrador Retrievers typically reach their full height and weight around their first birthday. Larger Labs may need up to 18 months to fill out their chest, but any weight gain after 12 months should be minimal overall. If your Lab is less than a year old, they are likely still growing and putting on muscle to reach their adult size. Paw Size. If their paws look oversized next to their legs and body, then they are probably still growing, as this is a classic puppy feature. Lastly, if you purchased your Lab through a breeder, you can contact them for a more exact height and weight estimate. What is the size of a full-grown Labrador Retriever? A full-grown Labrador Retriever weighs between 65 and 80 pounds and stands about .The average weight of a full-grown female Labrador Retriever should be about 55 to 70 pounds, standing at .Make sure to consult with your veterinarian to ensure that your Lab is maintaining a healthy weight for its body size. The Labrador Retriever growth rate should be indicative of its athletic body and muscular build. Did you know. ? Their webbed paws made them strong swimmers, along with their otter tail, which acts like a powerful rudder when retrieving ducks. English nobles spotted the dogs and brought them home across the Atlantic, where breeders continued to refine the breed into its own variation. Between their friendly demeanor, adaptability, and outgoing disposition, they make ideal family members. As cherished members of our families, Labs deserve the best care. Unfortunately, like many other purebred dogs, Labrador Retrievers are more susceptible to various health issues. Some of the most common examples include:. Size The average female black Lab grows to a height of between 21 and 24 inches from the floor at the withers, or shoulders, although even a purebred dog can be bigger or smaller. Males reach a height of 22 to 25 inches. By the age of 6 months, most dogs reach approximately 75 percent of their full adult height, so your 7-month-old black Lab should be between 15 and 18 inches tall. Weight A healthy adult black Lab female weighs 55 to 70 pounds and a male 65 to 80 pounds. By the age of 6 months, black Lab puppies reach approximately two-thirds of their adult weight, so a dog of 7 months should be in this range or slightly heavier. At 70 percent of the average female adult weight, your female black Lab puppy should weigh from 40 to 50 pounds, while a male puppy would weigh between 45 and 55 pounds. Paws Black Lab puppies go through a stage from the age of 4 months to around 7 months, when their legs appear to grow much faster than the rest of their bodies. This gives them the look of a teenager with long, gangly legs and big paws. Her paws, though, are likely to be full adult size, which will make them look larger because they're out of proportion with the rest of her young body. As a large-breed dog, Labs commonly reach maturity at around 12 to 18 months; some take even longer to develop. A nonadult black Lab may look fairly skinny and have the appearance of slinking along like a cat when she walks: though her height is almost that of an adult dog, she has months to go before she fills out. More Articles. Dubai Once again 'Humiiation at the Paws of your Labrador'.I know it well,many of us do! You are right at the time where your puppy training ,which has been going extremely well suddenley seems to have been completely forgotten and the Teenager version of your dog emerges. This is the time where you really need to stick harder than ever with your training. They are getting more independent at they same time as they are getting bigger and stronge and it can be really challenging. I went to a second set of basic obedience classes at this age just practice focus around distractions. We haven't got children so it was very easy to follow advice I was given about keeping temptation out of reach.When he did make off with something we didn't make a game of it,we just swapped for a treat.Sorry you were embarrassed at class but truly it's so common albeit frustrating when you KNOW they can do the excercise perfectly.Are you working with food rewards? If so I would really up the ante in the rewards ,take something super tasty and when Dexter used to decide not to cooperate I just used to move away from the rest of the dogs to where we had more space,ergo less distraction and try and get his focus back there before moving closer again. Good luck,keep,with it,she sounds a lovely dog x. Between 8 weeks and 10 months, your puppy has a ton of growing to do, and they change drastically from month to month. Each stage of growth requires specific attention, exercise, and diet, so there is much to learn and pay attention to these different growth stages. There may be behavioral challenges while your pup adjusts to their new life without their mother and siblings. This period of adjustment can sometimes lead to fearful and timid behavior, and your puppy will need as much attention and affection as possible. They should be eating 3—4 small meals a day at this stage. You can begin basic command, leash, and potty training at this point too. Although the schedule is not complete this is a critical period to begin socialization and making sure they are calm and friendly with other dogs, just make sure they are also vaccinated. We highly recommend making training a part of their daily activities at this age. Biting can be an issue at this stage too, as they will begin teething, and they will start exploring and chewing whatever they can find. Chew toys and consistent command reinforcement are both vital for avoiding this behavior. The good news is that your puppy will grow out of this habit at around 6 months old. Your lab should also be house-trained by this point, but there may still be the occasional accident. Remember to be gentle but firm when this happens, and your pooch will likely move through it swiftly. They will begin losing their baby teeth at this point, and biting and chewing may reach its peak. Firm but gentle commands, chew toys, and loads of patience are essential at this stage. Your puppy will be testing the limits and may start showing dominance, ignoring known commands, and asserting more independence. You can now drop their meals down to two meals per day, but be sure that they are not eating too quickly. Your puppy will start to closely resemble an adult at 6 months, but remember that mentally, they are still puppies and will need loads of direction and training. Females may enter their first heat at 6—7 months, so keep a careful watch for stray males. They will still display puppy tendencies and traits and have a ton of excitable energy, but they should be fairly obedient and well-trained by this stage. Be sure to give your Labrador plenty of exercise at this stage to help keep them from misbehavior. They will have reached their full height by now but may still gain weight and muscle mass in the coming months. Unless you intend on breeding, you should consider neutering and spaying your puppy to avoid wandering and unwanted pregnancies. While some breeders recommend that you wait until a year old, this is a perfectly suitable time to perform the procedure. They may still gain weight and muscle mass but much slower than during the past few months. They will still display puppy characteristics and even test boundaries, but all in all, they should be obedient and well-trained by now. They will have a ton of energy and still enjoy playtimes and loads of exercise. While they are at their full height at this age, some Labs may appear lanky and still have weight to fill out in the coming months. When Do Labradors Stop Growing? All dogs are unique, and the question of when they stop growing is largely dependent on the individual. Anecdotally, your Lab should have reached their full weight by 18 months and full height by 9—12 months. Most breeders agree that your Lab will stop growing at some point during their second year. Even so, any weight gain during their second year will be minimal, and they will have done the majority of their growth by their first birthday. Mentally, they are out of the puppyhood phase of testing boundaries and disobedience by their first year— if correctly trained. If you have been consistent in training thus far, your Lab should be friendly, obedient, and well-behaved from their first birthday and into adulthood. In males, neutering can sometimes result in a calmer, more relaxed dog, and this, in turn, will slow down his need for exercise and may result in weight gain. A study in showed that dogs neutered before 37 weeks may gain more weight, while dogs that had the procedure after 37 weeks had a slower growth trajectory. The difference was minimal, though, and there is no reason to assume that these procedures have much of an effect on growth rates in dogs. Dangers of Growing Too Quickly or Stunted Growth While some puppies may grow quicker or slower than the agreed-upon average, this is usually nothing to be concerned about due to the individual and unique nature of dogs. However, if your pooch is gaining weight rapidly or not gaining enough, there may be deeper issues to look into. If your dog is from working or hunting stock, they may be smaller than average Labs and are usually lighter for work in the field. Size may also be genetic, and if your Lab comes from small parents, they will be smaller than average. The same may be true of heavier-than-average Labs—if their parents are large, they will likely be similar in size. However, larger-than-average weights may also be due to overfeeding or a lack of exercise , or a combination of both, so be sure to keep their exercise and feeding habits consistent. Image Credit: rebeccaashworth, Shutterstock Growth Distinctions of Different Labradors Although they are designated under the same breed, there are two different types of common Labradors: English and American. English Labradors tend to be stockier and more muscular than their American counterparts and have a thick, waterproof coat , while American Labs have a slender build with a slightly finer coat. English Labs are slightly shorter, topping out at around 22 inches, but their stocky and muscular build often makes them heavier than American Labs. In fact, English Labs have been known to weigh up to 20 pounds more than American Labs without being considered overweight. American Labs are known to be slightly more active and energetic than English Labs, while English Labs tend to be less excitable and more laid back. English Labs are by no means lazy, though, and they still have plenty of energy and stamina to go around. Conclusion: Monthly Labrador Growth Pictures Hopefully, this guide has helped you understand the growth rate of your Labrador puppy and given you a better idea of what to expect during the different stages. See also:. What commands should my six month puppy know? And much more! Average 6 month old Lab size? It seems amazing that the little fluff ball you bought home just four months ago should be so big. And bouncy! But I know you want an answer, so as a very rough guide, many 6 month old lab puppies will weigh around 50lbs. The remainder of his growth, another lbs or so will take place more slowly over the next 6 months. What should my black, yellow, or chocolate Labrador weigh at six months? People often ask if there is any difference between the different colors with regard to weight and size. The answer is kind of. Working type American or field bred Labradors are often lighter at six months than show type English or bench bred Labradors. And in the UK at least, most field bred Labradors are either black the majority or yellow including fox red. Most not all, but most chocolate Labs in the UK are show or pet bred Labradors and tend to be more heavily built. There is a softness to his features that will last another couple of months or so. How much food does a 6 month old Lab need? How much food your puppy needs will depend on how much he weighs and what condition he is in. Have a look at our puppy feeding chart and also at the instructions on the packet of food that you are using. If your puppy is a little on the skinny side give him a tiny bit more food than recommended and if he is looking a bit plump, a little bit less. Consistent overfeeding will make a puppy fat. Consistent underfeeding will see him lose weight. How often should I feed my six month old puppy? Your 6 month old Lab can drop down from three meals a day to two without any problems. This means that you will be giving the same amount of food as before, but in two larger meals instead of three smaller ones. So, if your pup gets diarrhoea when you switch to twice daily feed, skip a meal to let his tummy settle, then go back to three meals a day for a few days. When you next try going down to two meals a day, give him two small meals to begin with and increase the meal size gradually over the next few days How far should my six month old be walked every day? If you are not familiar with it, the five minute rule says that a puppy needs five minutes of exercise per day for each month of his life. Like many young Labs, adorable six month old Myles loves everyone: by Ericka from the USA Most experts would divide that into two sessions. This refers to formal walks, not playing in the garden or messing about with other dogs. And the reason for that caution is that your puppy is still growing and the growth plates in his joints are still vulnerable to damage. So my advice would be to avoid hard exercise until your puppy is well past his first birthday and then to build up gradually over a period of several weeks. Sexual maturity in Labradors Puppies become sexually mature before they are physically mature and long before they are mentally adults. Some six month old puppies are capable of breeding. And definitely should not be allowed to do so. Apart from the ethical and moral implications, it may be physically harmful to breed from such a young female. Many female Labradors will have their first season sometime between six months and a year, so this is something you need to be looking out for. Neutering Some of you will have already had your 6 month pup neutered, others will be thinking about doing so in the next few months. If you decide against neutering, this is a good point in time to review the security on your property and make sure it is thoroughly dog proof. Labradors are surprisingly agile and can often jump higher, and dig deeper, than you imagine. Beautiful Poppy at just seven months old: by Karen R from Germany Once sexually mature, many a Labrador, particularly but not only males, will make more effort to explore beyond the boundaries of your property. And if you have a female in season, other enterprising males will do their best to find a way in! Whatever your intentions, the time for breeding is a long way off right now. Bear in mind your dog is nowhere near grown up. In many ways he is still a baby. Has my 6 month old Lab finished teething? Most puppies have shed the last of their baby teeth by six months of age. And will have cut many of their adult teeth by this point too. Most will have all their adult teeth within the next month or so. This is the point at which most young dogs start to lose their fear of losing you. This has some big implications for those that exercise their young dogs off leash in open country, where there are temptations such as wild birds and animals to chase. Which brings us to the next question. As a trainer of working retrievers I can tell you that I have had six month old Labradors that were quite advanced with their training and others that had barely started. All reached the same standard eventually. However, it is important to get started with training now. And while there is no set standard your puppy should have reached, it is definitely time to get some safety cues installed. What commands should my six month old puppy know? Most six month old pups have only quite basic obedience and are not yet reliably obedient when there are lots of distractions about. While many six month olds will sit when asked, and come when called in the house and yard. And a lot the majority of six month old Labradors are still pulling on the lead. Professional or serious hobby trainers aside, this is fairly normal. Most importantly, you need to focus on proofing these cues against distraction. Come The come cue, or recall, is important so that your dog can be allowed safely off leash and recalled if any hazards appear. You can find information on teaching recall here: How to teach a basic recall Even if you have made quite good progress with recall, now is quite a good point at which to be thinking about the about turn walk this is a technique to prevent your dog from getting too far away from you on walks. This is especially important as he grows bigger. Labradors are strong and often friendly dogs. This makes pulling on the lead very common as your puppy does his best to engage every passing stranger in a game. Gorgeous Charlie enjoying a run at six months of age — he also appears in our feature at the top of the page: by Julie T from Cornwall UK I have seen grown ups pulled clean off their feet by large dogs on leash. Being pulled off your feet, or losing control of your dog at the roadside is a very real risk. Many young Labradors are very friendly and while this is a great thing overall, it can cause some problems with training at this age. I mentioned proofing earlier, and proofing is the process which teaches our dogs to come away from other dogs or people. And proofing is the way to succeed. The main problem with proofing is that it takes time and help. You might also find proofing Labrador obedience helpful. What is the best way to train my 6 month old? Training methods are changing. We are in something of a new era with regard to dog training methods and there are now plenty of good trainers who can show you how to train your dog effectively without fear or pain. Behavior problems Most six month old pups are through the housetraining phase, though there may be very occasional accidents if a your dog is left alone for a lot longer than usual. Female dogs may have an occasional accident during their first season too, but these are usually isolated incidents. What about chewing? If you are expecting chewing to stop at the same time as teething coming to an end, you may be disappointed. We look at destructive chewing in more detail in this article , but it can be at its worst between 6 and 9 months of age. Which brings us to a common question Can I de-crate my six month old Lab? It seems mean to shut him away at bedtime. Why not give him the freedom of the kitchen during the night? Well, this can work. But often it does not and results either in a bad chewing problem or occasionally, in a relapse in house training. You can find out more in this article which includes detailed de-crating instructions. The other big issue for many puppy parents with six month olds, is excitable behavior. Particularly jumping up, and sometimes nipping How do I stop my six month old Labrador from jumping up? Jumping up is a common problem in young labs. These are friendly and affectionate dogs who enjoy close contact and like to greet their friends up close! You and your visitors not only tolerate it, but actually reinforce it by petting the puppy as he does it. Or rather over- excitement. This is the age at which excitable behavior can become quite a challenge again. Partly because the dog is now physically bigger, stronger, and more difficult to control. Now, more than ever, you need your dog to listen and respond to your voice. Playing safely More often than not, excitable behavior that has got out of control, started out as a game. However, if you are struggling a bit, you are not on your own. Drop into the forum and say hello to all the other puppy parents. Of course, it all happens much faster in them though, because they pack it all into and average of just 12 or 13 years. Between 6 and 12 months old, they will enter adolescence. At a year old, they are a mature adolescent. Sometime between 2 and 3 years old they become physically and mentally mature. And at 9 years old, they start to become seniors. Labrador behavior by age: the first 6 months Infant Labradors are champion nappers, attached to their primary carer to the point of clinginess, playful, and impulsive. Sleep patterns Young Labrador puppies are growing and learning fast, and they need a lot of sleep to support their development. So, they make up for it by napping frequently during the day. Which is alright for them, even though it can be cripplingly tiring for us! But hang in there — most puppies are sleeping through the night at 14 weeks old. After that they will gradually start waking earlier in the morning too. There is a double whammy of reasons for this. Firstly, they are instinctively aware that they are still too small and vulnerable to survive alone. Secondly, Labradors have been bred over many generations to be innately people-focussed, since dogs who were naturally motivated to remain close to their owners made better workers. Playfulness Labrador puppies spend more time playing than at any other time in their lives. But lots of first time puppy parents are taken aback by exactly how ferocious puppy play behavior can be! Barking, growling, lunging, pouncing, and biting are all completely normal elements of puppy play. In the wild, they would be valuable practice for hunting in future, and the natural instinct to start practicing early lives on, even this long after domestication. Impulsiveness Puppies of all types are generally a chaotic presence. They have very little impulse control, so they rarely sit still for long, and they cannot resist temptation. Make sure those shoes are kept out of reach in the first place, and give your puppy plenty of suitable toys instead. The sweet spot There is a point when a Labrador puppy is roughly akin to an 8 year old child. They sleep well, use the toilet in the right place, understand instructions, and hang off your every word. A whole new stage of Labrador behavior is coming! If we think of it in terms of their wild ancestors again, they are no longer so vulnerable and reliant on the protection of adults around them. And time to start thinking for themselves, in anticipation of being an self-sufficient adult soon. You might start to discover that the little puppy who never left your side off the leash will suddenly cross soccer fields to say hello to another dog. These are all normal parts of growing up. During this stage, you need to protect your cues by not using them when your dog is likely to ignore you, and manage their opportunities to make unwanted decisions instead. For example, by using a long line, or exercising them in a secure field. Adolescence is also associated with the onset of sex differences in behavior. For example, unneutered male dogs tend to carry out more scent marking than either spayed or intact females, or neutered males. And unspayed female dogs will start going into heat every 6 months or so. As they become more independent, and stop relying on others to look out for them, they instinctively become more cautious about new and unfamiliar things as well. If this happens, the key is not to push them to handle more than they are comfortable with — given them space, and and gradually restore they emotional response to a positive one using treats. Labrador behavior by age: adulthood By the time your Labrador is 2 or 3 years old, their physical and emotional journey to adulthood is complete. Hopefully, if you socialized them carefully as a puppy, and trained them consistently until now, they have become all the things you dreamed of. And at last, they have reached a point where if you treat them consistently, their behavior will remain consistent too. The Labrador breed is famous for being friendly and easy company. They are exceptional at learning and remembering new cues, and famously food motivated, so teaching and maintaining good manners should be straightforward. But without enough exercise they might resort to unwanted behaviors such as chewing furniture, barking or digging in the garden. Factors which will affect the behavior of your mature adult Labrador include: The temperament of their parents Socialization they received as a puppy Training How much physical exercise they get How much mental stimulation they receive Diet How much time they spend alone Health factors Positive and negative experiences An example of how health factors and experience can affect behavior is if a Lab experiencing joint pain from hip dysplasia is jumped on by a playful younger dog. This could make them reactive towards encounters with other dogs in future, because they want to warn off another potentially painful experience. Labrador behavior by age: the senior years In veterinary terms, Labradors are considered senior from roughly 9 years old onwards. However, many Labs remain active long past this point. The average retirement age of Labradors working as gundogs is 10 years old , and this is more likely to be due to physical factors such as arthritis or deafness than not being mentally up to the job any more. But, old age is associated with a broad range of physical changes, and increased likelihood of illnesses, many of which can cause behavior changes. For example Senior dogs are more likely to be diagnosed with diabetes , and are less able to fight off infections like UTIs. Which means their toilet habits might change, including needing to get up in the night to pee again. Sensory changes such as sight and hearing loss mean they might become less responsive to your cues, or less confident in unfamiliar situations. Physical changes like loss of muscle mass and degeneration of their joints means they might slow down, and be less interested in things they used to enjoy, like walks or playing fetch. The older they get, the more likely dogs are to show signs of canine cognitive dysfunction CCD , which his akin to dementia in humans. CCD may include behavior changes such as night waking, forgetfulness, and becoming disorientated. Take your senior dog for regular veterinary checks to help manage these changes, and for practical advice on making their golden years as comfortable as possible. Labrador behavior by age — summary Labrador behavior by age can be viewed in terms of four distinct periods — puppyhood, adolescence, adulthood and senior years. Adulthood is the easiest, and thankfully the longest too! Whilst all the other stages present their own unique challenges, they are just that — stages, which will pass. Knowing what to expect makes them easier to manage, and realizing they are transient helps us appreciate the privilege of spending a lifetime with our Labs. Have you got any tips for surviving the puppy and adolescent stages?

All the puppies are raised in a loving family environment on their rural homestead. Personal Experience One of the most challenging aspects of bringing your puppy home is potty training him. The first thing to know is that you must start potty training your furbaby from the minute you get him home. When we arrived home with our new puppy, the first thing we did was take him straight out into the garden. As soon as the little guy relieved himself, I made a big fuss of him, and then we went indoors. Mark The Spot! That enabled me to grab the puppy and take him outside before accidents happened. Gradually, Raffles learned where his poop place was, and he quickly gravitated to the spot where the first potty stop was. After a couple of weeks, the accidents became less frequent, and by week four, little Raffles was pretty much potty trained! If you did, please remember to share! Goldendoodles are extremely popular dogs, so you can expect to pay top dollar for a well-bred puppy. Puppies offered for sale at very cheap prices are often from puppy mills or backyard breeders. Sandy Ridge Miniature Goldendoodle Miniature goldendoodles have found their place in the lives of many families. Sandy Ridge Miniature Goldendoodle is a leader in the breeding of healthy, happy, and intelligent mini goldendoodles. Our experience with raising miniature goldendoodle puppies has given us much insight on genetics involved and the overall characterizations of this breed. Our family lives in a relaxed rural setting where our adults and puppies are given much attention and care. In settling on the miniature goldendoodle as the breed for Sandy Ridge, we put much consideration into the qualities we were looking for in our puppies. Below are outlined some of the leading criteria required in our search for the perfect breed — miniature goldendoodle. Our priorities for our mini goldendoodle puppies include: health, temperament, coat quality, size, and appearance. Health Our mini goldendoodle puppies are raised from our experience with genetics involved to be the healthiest we can possibly produce. Through our testing and experience, we do everything we feel possible to eliminate health problems for our mini goldendoodle puppies. Our utmost desire is to produce healthy mini goldendoodle puppies that are able to live long and happy lives. In the unfortunate situation a health problem does arise, we offer a two year genetic guarantee against debilitating genetic defects in our miniature goldendoodles. Temperament In our search for the perfect breed, a mild yet playful disposition was our goal. We could not be happier with the success in the miniature goldendoodle temperament. Playfulness and interaction is the motivation for the activity of a mini goldendoodle. While playful in action, a mini goldendoodle is as equally interactive in the mild manner of quiet and caressing attention. Showing the temperament of contentment, a miniature goldendoodle will often be found lounging by their human friends or patiently waiting for attention. Children typically find an inseparable friend and adults find companionship in a miniature goldendoodle. Coat Quality The quest for the perfect breed cannot be completed without the characteristics of a low shedding coat. Miniature goldendoodles gather the quality well known from the poodle breed of hair instead of fur. While we cannot guarantee a mini goldendoodle will not shed, our mini goldendoodle puppies show low to non-shedding characteristics. We have experience raising miniature and standard labradoodles, but never found the consistency evident in the mini goldendoodle coat. Due to this experience, we no longer raise labradoodles and recommend interested families to consider our experience in your decision. Size Sandy Ridge also has experience raising standard size goldendoodles, but we were looking for a size of goldendoodle that fits into the family setting. A mini goldendoodle is well adapted to any size of living space, whether an intercity apartment, suburban home, or sprawling farm. Our first generation mini goldendoodles F1 miniature goldendoodles are typically lbs as adults, which is a mid size dog. Our first generation backcross mini goldendoodles F1b miniature goldendoodles are typically lbs as adults, which is a smaller medium breed dog. Our multigen miniature goldendoodles are our smallest size that are typically lbs as adults. Appearance Our experience with genetics of miniature poodles and golden retrievers has shown a vast difference in the appearance of dogs from both breeds and the mini goldendoodle result. We do not prefer a miniature goldendoodle that favors the look of the tradition poodle and most goldendoodles long nose, long legs, and slender bodies. While not easy, we have selected adults for our breeding that give us mini goldendoodles with solid bodies, shorter noses, and teddy bear faces. Many families have come to appreciate our teddy bear miniature goldendoodles that are unique to Sandy Ridge. Purchasing Please email for current pricing of our miniature goldendoodles. All puppies picked up will be charged Iowa sales tax. Contact Us Please feel free to contact us with any questions you may have. Email as a first contact is typically the best contact sandyridge gmail. Thanks, and enjoy your experience with Sandy Ridge Miniature Goldendoodle. Our goldendoodle puppies are raised to be the best pet for their new owners and come well socialized. These goldendoodles get lots of attention from a large family and are raised in a relaxed rural setting. Health Guarantee Our goldendoodle puppies come with a 7 day health guarantee and a 2 year genetic guarantee. We never want any of our goldendoodles to have to go through any physical pain, especially that which is caused by careless breeding of unhealthy dogs or the mistreatment of the puppy. Health of a puppy is our first concern, followed by the temperament which is explained below in the Training section. Our Goldendoodle Puppies We raise Goldendoodles. The first generation goldendoodles have a hybrid vigor common to first generation crosses. Hybrid, or F1, goldendoodle are less susceptible to common illnesses that are common to purebreds and are generally more allergy friendly than the retrievers. Most shed little and all are very intelligent. The type of coat on each of our goldendoodle puppies ranges from slightly wavy to extremely curly. Update: we are no longer raising miniature labradoodle puppies due to inconsistent coat qualities. We have been more successful in achieving lower shedding and softer coats with the miniature goldendoodle breed. Miniature Doodles We started out breeding the standard Labradoodle and Goldendoodle breeds, but we now specialize in Miniature Goldendoodles. These are also a first generation, first generation backcross, or multigen hybrid crosses, but between the golden retriever and a miniature poodle breeds. Miniature, also known as mini, goldendoodles have become increasingly popular because they retain the same retriever doodles temperaments and coat qualities only in a little smaller package. These mini goldendoodles make ideal pets for families looking for a mid-sized dog. We have experienced a little more size variation with the miniature doodles, but most should stay in the pound range F1 miniature goldendoodle, pound range F1b miniature goldendoodle , or pound range multigen miniature goldendoodle. We have had a number of miniature goldendoodle litters without the health problems that many breeders like to warn pet seekers of. As far as we know, there has been no proven health or genetic issues differing from standard breeding except that of irresponsible breeding of unhealthy Golden retriever adults with unhealthy miniature poodles. Training One of the greatest qualities of goldendoodles is their ability to be easily trained. This results from their natural affection and desire to please. Despite this, training is one of the most important aspects of a goldendoodle puppy's life. Temperament: When a puppy is first born, it requires most of its attention from its mother. By the time a goldendoodle reaches 4 weeks old, they become quite playful. It is at this age that we begin playing with and socializing each one individually. Socialization is the most important training a goldendoodle can have between 8 and 12 weeks old. This is where goldendoodles develop their temperaments that will stay with it for the rest of their dog life. Obedience: Starting from weeks old, goldendoodles should begin obedience training, whether with a professional, or at home. It is here a goldendoodle will learn which types of behavior are accepted and which are not. It is essential that goldendoodles learn who is the boss, yet the owner must treat a puppy with respect and care to achieve the best results for temperament and obedience. Potty training is also a type of obedience training. You must create a schedule or perform a certain activity to get the puppy accustomed to its potty routine. Other simple obedience training areas that must be addressed include: nipping, jumping, digging, chewing, and yard boundaries. Purchasing Please search through our puppies available and email at sandyridge gmail. The balance the payment is due when puppies are 6 weeks old. You may pick out your puppy when they are 6 weeks old and may take your puppy home when it is weeks old, depending on the size. New owners are handled on a first come, first serve basis. Those who place a down payment first on a new litter will receive pick of the litter. Thank you for visiting Sandy Ridge Puppies. Please enjoy your stay. You may visit the goldendoodle puppy page for more information on availability. Mini goldendoodles tend to be sold quickly when available, so please contact us if you are seriously interested in a one of our miniature goldendoodle puppies.

The Sheepadoodle does not shed, but needs to be brushed regularly in order to maintain a long coat which is soft and wavy. What does F1 and F1b mean? F1 is the first cross of an Old English Sheepdog to a Poodle. F1b is a Sheepadoodle bred back to a poodle. Are Sheepadoodles good with kids and other pets? Yes, Sheepadoodles get along well with children and other dogs. What is a Sheepadoodles coat like? A sheepadoodle coat will be fluffy, soft and will be wavy to curly. How big do Sheepadoodles get? How Long do Sheepadoodles Live? On average from 12 to 15 years. Daily exercise and quality vitamins like Nuvet are all key a boosted longevity and healthy life. Are sheepadoodles AKC registered? Because your puppy is a Sheepadoodle it will not be AKC registered. It is not a pure breed according to AKC. They will provide your Sheepadoodle with a puppy registration form and a pedigree. How long does it take to house train a Sheepadoodle? At 8 weeks they usually have it figured out. When you take your puppy home we recommend crate training. Sheepadoodles are really smart and easy going and are really easy to house train. They could have it down in a couple of weeks but some may take a little longer. Qualities of the Sheepadoodle Puppy Dog lovers in the market for friendly, smart and hypoallergenic pets that are also adorable and affectionate will love Sheepadoodle puppies. These canines are truly special. Part of that stems from their pedigree. In addition, the coat of a Sheepadoodle puppies can range from wavy to curly fleece, and eye color can be brown, blue or one of each. At Prairie Hill Puppies, our Sheepadoodle breeders have Standard Sheepadoodle puppies and Mini Sheepadoodle puppies available in colors such as traditional black and white, tri-colored, and brindle and white. Our Mini Sheepadoodle puppies usually weigh somewhere between 25 and 40 pounds. The Standard Sheepadoodle, on the other hand, will typically be 50 pounds or more, standing 21 inches and taller. Both sizes of Sheepadoodles have similar personalities; size is the main distinguisher between mini and standard Sheepadoodles. Their typical life-span is 12 to 15 years. Our Sheepadoodle breeders have more than 15 years experience in raising quality puppies and are passionate, dedicated dog lovers. We also have a certified vet technician on staff who is committed to socializing and nurturing your family pet. All our parents are registered with the American Kennel Club, and are health tested through Paw Print Genetics and certified with the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. If you want to learn more about our Standard and Mini Sheepadoodle puppies for sale, contact us anytime. Because the breed is known to be gentle, patient, affectionate, and playful, it is known to be good with children and other pets. These dogs are smart and eager to please, making them generally easy to train. They are typically happy and easy-going with a love for playing and spending time outdoors. They are very social pups. They love spending time with their people and will want to be included in your activities as a full-fledged family member. They love to play and meet new people, and they do best when they are not left alone very long. This breed often displays herding behavior because of its Sheepdog genetics, but early training can help you manage it. Happy, affectionate, outgoing, and active, the Mini Sheepadoodle can be an ideal family pet or therapy dog. They will generally look like a lot of other popular Doodle breeds, but their striking coats set them apart from the rest. Most have a luxurious, wavy coat that can make them seem bigger than they really are, though some end up with loose curls. The black and white color combination is the most common by far, but they can also be found in: Solid black. He's both a clown and a scholar who will keep you laughing at his shenanigans and amazed at his intelligence. Happy and easy-going, the Sheepadoodle has a tender heart that responds best to positive training. The luxurious, soft, non-shed coat requires regular grooming. Active without being hyper, Sheepadoodles require regular age-appropriate exercise and mental stimulation and can be an excellent choice for active singles or families that also enjoy their relaxation time. Although Sheepadoodles make wonderful family pets, it is important to note that they need a firm hand and can be prone to herding, especially small children. The Sheepadoodle Coat Sheepadoodles, and Olde English Sheepdogs are born with the black and white puppy coat with the exception of the brindles. They go through a few coat changes as they mature. After the puppy coat, you will start to see a lighter grey coming in at about months, usually starting around the back of the legs, across the shoulders then gradually turning a lighter grey. This is called the junior coat. The coat will continue to change to the fully mature coat, at around years old. However, some Sheepadoodles, as with OES do not change, and will stay black and white. It's all in the genes and we can't be sure which ones will change. We're told MOST do, but we do not ourselves have enough experience with the coats to make that claim. We will continue to ask our Sheepadoodle customers for coat updates. As a side note, we would expect that the brindles would grey out sooner than the black and white puppies because brindle is itself a fading gene. You will be surprised at the difference even in their six week photos. Shown here is the progression of one of our Sheepadoodles. Click photos to view larger Puppy at 8 weeks. Life Span Did You Know? In some cases, the parent breeds could be a Sheepadoodle and a Mini Poodle. These small, fluffy companions make great family pets. Although the Mini Sheepadoodle is not currently recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable canine organizations. Mini Sheepadoodles are loving, affectionate, and playful dogs. Their fantastic personality and gentle disposition make them an excellent addition to a family. They tend to get along well with children, other dogs, and other pets. As long as they have been properly socialized, they even get along with strangers. After all, that just means more people to give them attention! A Mini Sheepadoodle is highly adaptable. They do well in apartments as well as larger homes with or without yards. As long as they get enough daily exercise, mental stimulation, and attention, they can adapt to almost any living situation. They also do well in most climates. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Although their fluffy coat does give them some extra insulation against the cold, they may still need some winter dog products while on walks when temperatures drop lower. Because these dogs bond closely with their families and thrive on affection and attention, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. This also means they can be prone to developing separation anxiety if you do not work with them early on. Although a Mini Sheepadoodle could inherit none of the conditions common to their parent breeds, they also stand a chance of inheriting some of them or all of them. Good breeding practices make a huge difference. Responsible breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing issues to puppies. So, make sure you ask about the health and genetic history of both of the parents. Mini Sheepadoodles are highly intelligent dogs that are eager to please. They pick up on things quickly and strive to earn praise from their owners. This makes them a highly trainable dog that tends to be a good fit for owners of all experience levels. Although you may not need puppy training classes, they can still be a good idea. In addition to other benefits of puppy training classes , they give you opportunities to reinforce training, practice commands, and also socialize a puppy. A Mini Sheepadoodle coat may vary depending on the parent breeds. In general, the coat is long and curly. It may shed a little with a Sheepdog as one of the parents. If the other parent is a Sheepadoodle, a Mini Sheepadoodle will be more likely to inherit the low or non-shedding Poodle coat. They will need to be brushed daily to remove tangles and prevent mats from forming. Bathing is on an as-needed basis, but professional grooming will be needed every weeks to help maintain their coat. This is particularly important if your Mini Sheepadoodle will be going swimming with you. Cutting nails once or twice a month keeps them from growing too long. Ear checks on a weekly basis with careful cleanings as needed can help prevent ear infections. Brushing teeth with a dog-friendly toothpaste or using an enzyme toothpaste every day is an ideal start to good dental care for dogs This, in addition to cleanings at the vet as needed, can help prevent painful dental diseases later in life. Although a Mini Sheepadoodle will be energetic and have bouts of high energy when they play, they sit in a more moderate activity range. Daily walks plus some playtime throughout the day are usually enough for this dog. But, they love spending time with you, so they will likely be up for more activity if you are. A fully-grown Mini Sheepadoodle usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. These are average measurements and some Mini Sheepadoodles may sit in a slightly heavier or slightly lighter range. Mini Sheepadoodles generally live for years on average. Mini Sheepadoodle Puppies for Sale. Life Span Did You Know? A Sheepadoodle can be an F1 or an F1b. F1 Sheepadoodles are a first generation, which means their parents are an Old English Sheepdog and a Poodle. They are often confused, at least in name, with Shepadoodles, but they are not the same dog. Shepadoodles are a cross between a Poodle and a German Shepherd. Sheepadoodles are beautiful dogs inside and out. They tend to be extremely friendly and absolutely love their families. Because they are mixed with a Poodle, there is a chance that their coat will be low-shedding. Their kind disposition and energetic personality make them a good fit for families. Although they are not purebred dogs, and therefore are not recognized by the AKC, they are recognized by other dog registries and clubs. In addition to making a great family pet, Sheepadoodles also make great therapy dogs. A well-socialized Sheepadoodle is an intelligent and active dog who tends to be naturally friendly, calm, and sociable. They tend to get along well with other dogs, pets, and children. Sheepadoodles tend to be expressive and intuitive. They seem to innately know how to be gentle and quiet with younger children. They are a combination of a companion and working dog that loves their family and is devoted to them. This dog breed is moderately adaptable. Due to their exercise needs, they tend to be a better fit for homes with large yards. They can adapt to apartment living, as long as they get plenty of serious exercise every day. They tend to do best in moderate and cooler climates, but can adapt to other types. As with most dogs, they are sensitive to heat and extreme cold. Because they love their families, have a lot of energy, and get bored easily, they do not like to be left alone for long periods of time. Because the Sheepadoodle is a mixed breed, they can inherit none of the health issues of their parent breeds or can inherit the health issues from one or both of them. Good breeding practices make a big difference in the health of puppies and reputable breeders will screen their dogs to avoid passing preventable issues to puppies. Make sure you ask the breeder about the health and genetic history of both parents and about any health tests or clearances that have been done. As a large dog breed, a Sheepadoodle is also at risk for bloat like their parents. Bloat in dogs can quickly become dangerous, especially if gastric torsion occurs ie: the stomach flips. The Sheepadoodle is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This tends to make them obedient, fast learners who are a good fit for owners of any experience level. Although they are alert and natural watchdogs, well-socialized Sheepadoodles tend to be quiet and will have to be trained to bark at strangers. Because they seek the approval of their owners, they tend to be sensitive. Harsh scolding or tones can hurt your bond with them and could cause them to be withdrawn or unresponsive to training. They respond best to positive ongoing training methods that are consistent. The low-shedding coat is one of the reasons why there are so many Poodle mixes. Sheepadoodle coats can vary from straight to curly and coat colors can be any combination of those common in Poodles. This means you can have a Sheepadoodle that is black, brown, gray, white, or a mix of colors. They only need to be bathed as needed, so having it done while at the groomer is usually a good fit. Floppy ears are more likely to trap dirt, debris, and moisture, which makes them more prone to ear infections. Dental disease is one of the most common health issues in dogs. It is also one of the most preventable. By implementing good dental care for dogs early on, you can decrease the tartar buildup that causes gum disease and tooth decay. A Sheepadoodle is a high-energy dog breed. They need plenty of exercise and structured exercise routines to be happy and healthy. Their high energy and intelligence mean they need a lot of daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation to avoid boredom. Giving them a job to do can help satisfy their working dog tendencies. They also tend to love water, so going swimming with your dog can be a good activity. Because they are also sociable, taking a trip to the dog park could be another great way to get rid of excess energy. Just make sure you keep activities low impact until puppies finish growing to avoid damaging developing joints. Fully-grown Sheepadoodles usually stand inches tall and weigh pounds. Generally, Sheepadoodles 20 inches or shorter are considered Mini Sheepadoodles. Sheepadoodles generally live for years on average. Sheepadoodles are also sometimes called Sheepdoodles, Sheepdogpoos, Sheepposs, and Sheep-a-poos. Featured Sheepadoodle Article. Feathers and Fleece is the the only Sheepadoodle puppies breeder who health tests every parent and include registrations and certifications in every go home packet. Colors range from Solid black, Black with white markings and the most common Black and white with a tinge of grey. Learn more about each size crossbreed Sheepadoodle below: The Standard Sheepadoodle The Standard Sheepadoodle can weigh upward of 60 pounds. The height of the standard Sheepadoodle will be 22 inches and up. The standard sheepadoodle is known for having big feet, and a big heart and make great pets for children. We breed more mini Sheepadoodle puppies than any other size on our farm. The reason is likely that this is a great size for most families. The mini Sheepadoodle will weigh less than 55 pounds and less than 22 inches to the back. The Micro Sheepadoodle The micro Sheepadoodle is extremely rare. The micro Sheepadoodle averages 19 inches in height and weighs less than 30 pounds. This size is most popular for apartment dwellers and those clients who travel and wish to take their dog with them. We breed only health tested parents with calm temperament. It is our belief clients can learn a lot about their future puppy just by getting know the parents. We ask all clients to visit the farm at least once to tour the farm and meet the parents of their new puppy. We also include all registrations and certifications for each parent in puppy go home packets. We breed the Sheepadoodle in a variety of colors. The most common color is black and white, but we can also breed the Sheepadoodle puppy in tri color, silver and in shades of brown. All Sheepadoodle puppies come with a docked tail. Check out these gorgeous Sheepadoodle Puppies that Fathers and Fleece Farm have previously sold This procedure is preformed by our primary veterinarian at only day old, before nerves have formed. All tails are docked to meet the Old English Sheepdog standard. How are Sheepadoodle Puppies Made? We can also breed the standard Sheepadoodle by mating a Sheepadoodle to the Sheepadoodle. It is important to note, that we only breed the Sheepadoodle to the Sheepadoodle if we own both parents of the breeding pair so that we can verify history of certifications, to insure we will have the finest offspring, with a long line of good health. The mini Sheepadoodle is a Hybrid dog achieved by the mating of a moyen Poodle to the Old English Sheepdog to produce a much smaller version of the standard size Sheepadoodle. We can also breed the mini Sheepadoodle to the mini Sheepadoodle to achieve the same result but again, only if we own the parents of the breeding dogs to insure a good history of health. The micro Sheepadoodle is the mating of the miniature Poodle to the micro Sheepadoodle. Our micro Sheepadoodle parents are fully health tested with parents of those dogs on site with a history of good health and certifications. The Sheepadoodle is a non shedding breed known to be highly hypoallergenic. Even the worst allergy sufferers can own a Sheepadoodle puppy. The Sheepadoodle is a non drooling and good smelling dog that is easily Adaptable to most households. This breed is most noted for being generous with affection for their owners. The ideal well bred Sheepadoodle is well-proportioned, muscular and strong. They should be sturdy and hardy in appearance and posses an intelligent and lively expression. At Feathers and Fleece we have achieved this balance for the perfect look of the Sheepadoodle. The well bred Sheepadoodle puppy is very intelligent , loyal and easy to train. A well socialized Sheepadoodle with good imprinting make wonderful pets and excellent health care and service dogs. At Feathers and Fleece we take our role as breeder very seriously by taking pride in our early imprinting program and the socialization of our puppies. Our long waiting list speaks volumes about the puppies we produce. The mini Sheepadoodle is the mating of a moyen Poodle to the Old English Sheepdog to produce a much smaller version of the standard size Sheepadoodle. Mini Sheepadoodle Sizes When completely mature and fully grown, Miniature Sheepadoodles are cute and cudly and stand between 13 and 20 inches tall 33 cm and 50 cm and weigh between 25 and 35 pounds 11 kg and 15 kg. Standard Full Grown Sheepadoodle Sizes Large dogs like the Standard Sheepadoodle are Large dog breeds and can weigh more than 55 pounds 24 kg and have a height that is more than 22 inches 55cm. They can be big dogs when fully grown. This can give you a better idea of how big the dog is likely to be when fully grown. Micro Sheepadoodle Sizes Micro Sheepadoodles may only reach a maximum height of 15 inches 38 cm and can weigh anywhere between 10 and 27 pounds 4 kg to 12kg. Newborn puppies will weigh around 10 to 12 oz at birth and will average lbs when fully grown into adulthood.