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Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links, and I will be compensated if you make a purchase after clicking on my links. Take back control of their behavior using these quick and easy solutions to stop German Shepherd biting that actually works. Even better, have a set of toys that are only used when you want to engage in play with your puppy. Hide these toys in a basket or box after your game of play. This makes them extra special. They are under your control and your dog must give them back to you. Special toys are more fun for your pup to bite than you. When in doubt of what special toy your dog likes, choose from this specially-curated list of what toys German Shepherds love for interactive toy ideas to keep your dog entertained. Say OUCH! When your pup bites you, say OUCH firmly. This simple technique catches the attention of many puppies when done correctly and can train a German Shepherd puppy to not bite you. You could also make a YIP sound instead, just like their little brother and sisters would make a yipping noise when playing too rough. If they continue to bite and nip, say OUCH again and then get up immediately and leave the room for a few moments. You may return to play but keep repeating this simple process until they learn to keep their teeth on their toys. This will only encourage them to continue their unwanted behavior. Use Puppy-Safe Partition Gates Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent your German Shepherd from jumping over. If your pup bites you aggressively when you and your family walk past you, then use an exercise pen or this German Shepherd-sized pet safe partition gate to contain them. Only use pet-safe partition gates that are high enough to prevent and discourage your German Shepherd from jumping over to continue to try and bite you. Use the items during busy times in your home to keep your dog calm and out of areas that might increase their excitement and biting and nipping you. Puppies tend to bite and chew when their teeth are coming in. They do this to relieve the pain and help soothe themselves. Freeze a durable large Kong with their favorite treats and kibble and have them on hand for times when your dog is acting out and biting you. Give them a Kong to gnaw on and bring icy relief to their gums. Plus, chewing has been shown to help relax and calm dogs. Redirections are actions that keep your pup from engaging in unwanted behavior by showing them appropriate behavior. For example: When your dog nips you, find their teething toy to bite instead. When your dog jumps on you to bite your hands or ankles, look around for a Kong to give to them to bite on. Squeaky toys like this toy that continues to squeak , even after a puncture, are ideal to distract your dog from your hand to another object. These toys differ from their special toys mentioned above because these redirection toys are ones you leave out for your pup to chew most of the time. So, be sure to have them nearby! Use Daily Leadership Skills How many times a day do you teach your German Shepherd to listen to you and offer them leadership? Use daily interactions as an effective way of teaching your dog about leadership. Have them sit before you take them for a walk or exiting a door. Ignore them altogether. Only offer them interaction and come back to them when they show you calming behaviors. Our dogs love our attention. And German Shepherds crave it! An overfed dog that is under-exercised may display destructive behaviors because of boredom and lack of energy needs being met. Get up off the couch and go outside for a walk and sniff party. Low impact activities and free-running off-leash running are best. Choose from a list of fun and gentle, age-appropriate German Shepherd puppy exercises to keep your pup healthy and better behaved. Stop roughhousing with your dog before it frustrates them. Use appropriate, puppy-safe toys instead of play sessions. This way, your pup can bite the toy instead of your fingers, hands, or arms. You may also stress out your GSD by engaging them rough of play. For your pup to either keep up with the play or stop you from too rough play, they may bite you! From day one, avoid play that involves mouthing or teeth on the skin. Use toys to provide your dog a way they can bite to release their energy… Without nipping you! And this game is great because it teaches your dog a necessary life skill. Practice the game: multiple times a day for 2 to 3 minutes at a time Your pup learns impulse control during the game and this transfers over to their ability to stop themselves from biting you. Read below for the easy-to-follow directions. If your dog gets too worked up and then bites, then teach them this Rev Up and Cool Down game. After a few running steps and before your pup gets too excited, stop running and walk slowly. Keep moving slowly until your dog also slows down. When you see them slow down, take a few more steps calmly and peacefully. Continue with steps one through three. Each time your dog should slow down sooner and quicker. If your puppy knows any of these basic German Shepherd commands , incorporate those commands to make the training more interesting and fun. The link above will also easily explain how to teach over ten commands! The point of the Rev Up and Cool Down game is to teach them to settle and stay calm without nipping and biting you. You need to keep your pup exercised, mentally stimulated, and show them what calming behavior is. Be fair and understanding. A Shepherd is a joy to own when given the direction they desire and the commitment they need. Found this helpful? Share it! She has a Bachelor of Science degree, with Honors, and has been training dogs for over a decade. Related Posts. Check Price on Amazon 4. Use Positive Reinforcement Positive reinforcement means giving something pleasant to your German Shepherd when they perform what you want them to do so that they learn to associate the correct behavior with the reward. The more this is repeated, they will remember and do it more often. The reward is a reinforcing motivation. In the above example of redirecting your GSDs biting to a chew toy, once he accepts the toy and starts to chew or play with it, you then offer lots of enthusiastic verbal praise and reward with a treat. Again, timing is important, and this must be done instantly so that your German Shepherd will recognize or associate his behavior with the correct action. You can give other rewards, but these may be more suited to older pups, adolescent dogs, or adults. Alternatives could be giving them a special toy, playing their favorite game, such as fetch, or taking them on their favorite walk. Always use lots of verbal praise in parallel to the reward you choose. You will, no doubt, soon get to learn where your dog prefers to be pet. Go here for more guidance on where to pet your German Shepherd. This is also useful when your German Shepherd starts to put his mouth around your possessions or furniture, ready to have a good gnaw! Using a time-out can effectively discipline a German Shepherd for biting and other undesirable behaviors. A great way to do this is to grab their collar, push their bum down, and make them sit. The idea is that your German Shepherd will quickly learn to associate that the fun stops when his nipping starts! As always, timing is critical, so your pup learns what he has done wrong at the precise moment. For very young puppies, you should only put them in time-out for a few seconds, between 7 and 10, and no longer than 30 seconds. At the end of the time-out, redirect your pup back to play and use lots of verbal praise or offer a training treat for good onward behavior. You must time the click at the exact moment your pet is doing what you want to reinforce. If you quickly reward your dog with a positive experience such as a treat, he will soon learn to associate the noise of the click with great things. The idea is that you condition your German Shepherd so that when he hears the sound of the clicker, he knows he has done something to please you. In the case of puppy biting, we are simply rewarding the puppy for choosing not to bite. You can achieve this by using the distraction technique described above. When the puppy makes the right choice and starts to bite on his chew toy, he hears the click and gets his treat. Look out for other symptoms such as drooling more than usual, bad breath, loss of appetite, or sneezing. If you are consistent and patient with your methods, you will achieve great results. Be firm but fair, which also helps to strengthen the loving bond between you and your dog. It leads to fear, avoidance, hurt feelings, guilt, stress, anxiety, and lack of trust. Owners should use positive reinforcement methods as much as possible. In another year-long study by the University of Pennsylvania, researchers found that using confrontational or aversive methods to teach aggressive dogs did not work. The dogs continued to be aggressive until the training methods were changed. The same study found that punishing techniques and dominance-based training, such as hitting or kicking, growling, or yelling at your dog, can cause aggression, as stated by Meghan E. An even more recent study in companion dogs suggests that using even mild punishments like yelling and leash-jerking can stress dogs out more than dogs taught using reward-based training. This stress causes negative consequences and poorer welfare. Alpha rolling is a controversial and outdated technique that physically puts your dog on his back or side in a submissive position to show that you are dominant or the Alpha. This old-fashioned technique is a form of positive punishment and was often used to house-train pups. Many people will have used this method decades ago without success, but at the time, they believed it was the right thing to do. For a positive punishment to work, the problem is that it has to be administered during or immediately after the act within 2 -3 seconds ; otherwise, the dog will not make the connection. Sometimes puppies naturally get over-excited and overtired. When this happens, instead of using the crate as a punishment, lure him into the crate with a treat offering lots of praise and letting him go down for a nap. If you feel sorry for your German Shepherd after disciplining him, you must never reward him out of guilt. Again, this only confuses your dog. Remember to be firm but fair. While a muzzle can prevent your dog from biting, it is not a solution to the underlying behavior issue. Muzzling your German Shepherd without addressing the root cause of their biting can lead to further behavioral problems and may even make the situation worse. Is it ever too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting? It is never too late to discipline a German Shepherd for biting, but it may take more time and effort to modify their behavior if the biting has become a habit. Start with identifying the root cause and then take the guidance of an expert to set boundaries and train better to eradicate unwanted behavior. Final Thoughts Puppy biting is natural in all dogs. However, you now know the importance of disciplining your German Shepherd as soon as he starts to exhibit biting, nipping, and chewing behavior and how to do it. This is especially important with the German Shepherd breed as they quickly grow into big strong dogs. That could end in disaster for all concerned. No matter what you are teaching your German Shepherd, try to train him when young; 8 weeks old is a great time to start. Make sure you properly socialize him and give him lots of exercise and training will be much easier. Related Posts You May Like:. Puppies Have you ever reached down to play with a German Shepherd puppy, only to have that adorable little fur-ball pierce your skin with its razor-sharp puppy teeth? When I brought Allie into the family, she was fully in the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — so that first month was tough! Unfortunately, biting is an inevitable phase of puppyhood — it comes with the territory when you decide to be a puppy parent. My goal with this guide is to get you through the biting stage with as few battle scars as possible. Why do German Shepherd Puppies Bite? Up until this time, your puppy was with its littermates, and playtime meant lots of mouthy, nipping fun. Accordingly, this is the only way your GSD knows how to play! A German Shepherd puppy also uses their mouths to explore different things like toys — or hands, ankles, furniture… pretty much anything they can get their mouth around. Your puppy could also be teething, which can increase their mouthy behavior. Just be patient as you work through the German Shepherd puppy biting phase — give your pup time to learn to be gentle when playing or seeking your attention. Nothing is worse than an ankle-biter! I was very lucky not to have this problem with Allie. Why does your German Shepherd puppy target the ankles? Because your GSD is a working dog trying to do its job — herd you around the house like livestock. German Shepherds were originally bred for herding flocks of sheep. Your furry pal may also think heel nipping is just a really fun game. Using a toy as a distraction and keeping your pup active will help nip ankle nipping in the bud! Because she was too busy biting hands! There are lots of reasons why a pup may decide to start biting your hands. For one, good things treats, toys, love, attention come from hands. Also, hands are almost like swinging toys from the perspective of a playful pup — too enticing to pass up! How to Discourage Biting Behavior While the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is a rite of passage, there are some ways you can discourage bad biting behavior without harsh discipline. This is one of the most effective ways to teach your German Shepherd bite inhibition — or how to be gentle with her teeth. Think about when your pup was rolling and playing with their brothers and sisters — if your GSD was too rough, their sibling would let out a yelp. This trick worked great with Allie! Just make sure to be consistent until your pup gets the idea and learns to master the power of her jaws. Puppies will be puppies! Redirect the biting to an appropriate toy. For example, when your fuzzy friend latches onto your ankles, give a little puppy-like yelp, and then whip out a toy and encourage your dog to chew on that instead. Tug-of-war is the perfect game for the puppy biting phase. Socialize your puppy as much as possible. Other dogs are great at teaching your puppy that they playing too rough and biting too hard. Try a deterrent to prevent your dog from chewing or biting. If all else fails, there are lots of products designed to deter your dog from bad biting behavior. How do they work? Well, they taste awful. But if used correctly, they can definitely work. This is still attention — your puppy bites, your puppy gets attention. Otherwise, your pup may see this as a fun new game, kind of like tug-of-war but with your hands or feet as the toy. You want your furball to love playing with you! The goal here is to encourage your German Shepherd to play as much as ever but to play gently. As a pup, Allie thought she should greet everyone by jumping in their face and nipping — kind of like a kiss hello, but with teeth. And as she got bigger, it was harder to control. But trust me, it got old quickly. Be proactive. If I knew someone was coming over, I would put Allie in another room or in her crate. Once our visitor was in the house and the initial excitement had passed, I would let her out. By keeping her from greeting people right when they walked through the door, I could minimize her overzealous behavior. This is a simple command that teaches your dog to stay in her place until you give a release command. This is another way to allow the initial excitement to pass and your German Shepherd to calm down a bit before greeting anyone. Redirect attention to a toy like I talked about earlier. Fold your arms and turn away. Keep turning until your GSD stops jumping, then praise them and use a treat as a reward. What to Do If Biting Becomes Aggressive Although puppy mouthing is normal, there can be cases where biting can signal problems and possibly even aggression. Look for physical differences in your pup. If your puppy is having a moment of aggression, their body may stiffen when snarling, and bites will typically be more painful than during regular play. Also, if your GSD puppy is biting out of fear or frustration, you may need to take action. These types of behavior are not something your pup will just grow out of. While the biting phase will inevitably end, you may find yourself asking the infamous question — when do German Shepherds calm down!? I asked myself and our vet this question more than once! It honestly just depends. Sure, she had her calm moments thanks in part to her training , but she was still very hyper especially in more excitable moments. The type of German Shepherd dog is yet another variable that plays a role in its energy levels. So when do German Shepherds calm down? It really depends on your individual German Shepherd. Final Thoughts Unfortunately, the German Shepherd puppy biting phase is something all GSD puppy owners will go through, but it will pass. Try the tips above to help keep your sanity during this phase. Or any tips to help the rest of us? Please share!

Use tab to navigate through the menu items. Our Golden Mountains are the perfect family dogs, loyal like the Bernese and sweet like the Golden Retriever. They are considered to be a large to giant sized breed of dog. They can be up to 26 inches tall and weigh anywhere from 65 to pounds. They are extremely well-natured due to the characteristics of their parents. These are ideal family dogs as they are easy-going, quick learners, confident, and very friendly. They also make good working dogs for hauling things and helping on a farm but also things such as therapy dogs, service dogs, guide dogs, and sniffer dogs. Golden Mountains are highly intelligent dogs and are very easy to train. Like all dogs they should be trained with positive reinforcement and you will notice they require fewer repetitions to catch on to a new command or trick. It is better to brush them a few times a week or every day to keep it smooth and reduce shedding. Brushing your dog can be a good bonding activity and an activity your kids could engage in. They have an average energy level and enjoy going on jogs or hiking adventures, but they also enjoy cuddle time! They adapt easily to the owners lifestyle and will live to please you. It is good to crate train your dog for bedtime and when you leave the house so that it can get used to being separated from the family some and not end up suffering from separation anxiety. We are one of the only breeders in the United States and we have had our puppies go to every corner of the U. A If you are looking for a well mannered and laid back big dog to add to the family the Golden Mountain Dog is the dog for you. Previous Siblings. However, with the rise in popularity among mix-breed dogs, so is the rise in backyard breeders and puppy mills. If you find a breeder who is offering you an unthinkable low price on a puppy, you should shop elsewhere, no matter how tempting the offer might be. No pedigree or health documentation: One of the main points of purchasing a dog from a breeder is to know exactly what type of animal you are getting. You should always receive registration papers, vaccine records, and care instructions with your pup. This will give you a good assessment of their personality and overall health. They are the third most popular dog breed in America, right behind the Labrador and the German Shepherd. If you live in a warmer weather climate, you should consider getting a different breed. However, if you live in an area with moderate temperatures, your pup will be just fine. Despite its huge stature, this dog is a lover and is fine with children of any age. With all of the looks of a family dog straight out of a fairytale, the Bernese Golden Mountain Dog will keep a watchful eye over your young kids and will be buddies with everyone in the household — even your cat! Highly intelligent, the Bernese Golden Mountain Dog is easy to train and will learn basic commands with ease. Hailing from a working background, this designer dog needs to be given a job to do to combat boredom. Keep his mind stimulated with plenty of playtime and exercise. Are These Dogs Good for Families? However, socializing your new pet from an early age is a must. This mix-breed is truly a sweetheart and just wants to be pals with everyone. A dog is a huge investment of both time and money. Here are some other things to consider before you take the plunge. He should be getting four cups of high-quality, high-protein dry dog food every day. When shopping for nutritious dog food for your Bernese Golden Mountain Dog, there are some ingredients that you should try to avoid, including: Flaxseed: Dogs have a tough time digesting this plant-based ingredient. Your pup always wants a job to do. You should be aiming to exercise him for about an hour a day. To keep your pooch mentally stimulated, you can: Have him work for his food: If you want to mentally stimulate your Bernese Golden Mountain Dog during mealtime, liven up his feeding routine by making a game out of it. Explore new places: Make it a habit to take a new walking route or hit up a new park every week. This will give your pet ample things to sniff, see, and explore. There are many different ones to try to keep your dog entertained for hours! New tricks: Is your pup getting bored of sit, stay, come? Spice up his training by throwing a new trick, or two, into the mix! Enrolling him in an agility or obedience class is a great way to get started. Just keep in mind that your Bernese Golden Mountain Dog is not a hot-weather tolerant pup. Always bring him inside to play when the temperatures are sizzling. Reward-based training works best for this breed. A good form of this kind of training is clicker training to effortlessly communicate with your pooch. Clicker training helps your Bernese Golden Mountain Dog associate the wanted behavior with a treat or verbal reward. When he does something good, immediately click the clicker and give him a juicy morsel or a scratch on the head. Groom him daily to remove any loose fur. Only bathe your dog as needed. When you do bathe him, use a gentle soap to preserve his lush coat perfectly. Be sure to clip his nails and clean his floppy ears every week. However, the depending on the species you want to cross breed, you can make the most out of this deal. Besides, a lot of these breeders already include full training of the dog. Since this breed is known for significant hair shedding, you need to brush the coat twice a week to prevent hair falling around the floor and furniture, as well as keep the coat neat and organized. If you do not take the dog to a regular ear cleaning, this might cause ear infection in the days to come. You also need to give the dog weekly teeth cleaning. This will reduce bad breath and tartar. If its nails are too long, it could injure in the long run or damage the house floor. It still lies on how well the dog was bred. So, how do you protect yourself from getting an ill Bernese Mountain Dog? Check to see if the parents of the dog had health issues. With that, I also recommend providing the regular dog exercise. With that, it is essential to look for dog food that can provide them with all the nutrients they need without adding too much fat to their body. Here are some notes to remember with regards to feeding your Golden Retriever crossed Bernese Mountain Dog Golden Retriever Mix: You need to keep your dog in a puppy diet for over a year since large breeds take more time to grow to its mature size in comparison to other dogs. Avoid giving your dog too much water one hour within a meal to prevent stomach illnesses. To start you off with your journey as a Bernese Mountain Dog owner, here is a list of good dog food you can give your new pet: Nutro Natural Large Breed Young Adult Dog Food The Nutro company is known for providing only the finest ingredients when it comes to dog food. What makes this brand more remarkable is that this particular dog food model is designed specifically for large breeds. The top two ingredients of this dog food are chicken and chicken meal. What follows after that is whole brown rice topped up with other healthy ingredients. Fromm Family Large Breed Adult Gold For over years, Fromm had been practicing its dedication to the health and wellness of dogs in different breeds and sizes. Just like Nutro, this one is made out of chicken and chicken meal as among its top ingredients. The only difference is that this dog food is also topped with duck. What follows these top three ingredients are oatmeal, brown rice, and pearled barley. Not only is it made out of fresh ingredients, but it also has a unique food formula. Among its top ingredients are dried potatoes, venison meal, and chicken fat. Dried eggs, apples, carrots, and spinach, are some more of the notable ingredients in this dog food. You can accomplish your mission by making sure their bowl is filled with the best food you could find. Vigorous puppies should get food that suits their needs, so check out the best puppy food brands. Food for older furry pals needs to contain below-average calories and adequate protein levels, which you can find at the best senior dry dog food brands. Your pooch takes the genes from two parents, so you can try your luck with best dry dog food for small dogs or best large breed dry dog food. A checkup with your vet can help you make the best decision. This happens due to their laid-back nature. They are not the type of animal that would voluntarily run around the house. You typically need to give your dog at least 30 minutes of exercise per day. However, since the Bernese of Mixed Mountain Dog crossbreed with Golden Retriever is known to be a weight gainer, it is highly recommended that you settle for about minutes daily. To keep your dog in top condition, you need to let it mingle with people. Consider taking the dog to the park for a good game or frisbee, take it swimming, or hiking. But what if you were to take a Bernese Mountain puppy? Since puppies are more energetic than adult dogs, you need to keep it occupied most of the time. Otherwise, it might cause chaos and destruction in your yard. Golden Retriever Crossed with Bernese Mountain Dog Training The most critical thing in dog training is for the trainer to have sufficient patience, especially in the case of Bernese Mountain Dogs with Golden Retriever breed. Dog training takes commitment and time. So before beginning the training, you need to set yourself in the mood for it. Always be ahead of the dog you are teaching. Reward good behavior and punish bad ones. Make all the training sessions short. Train your dog immediately the moment you take it home. Teach the dog the stop sign Another critical point in dog training is the stop signage. When you hold your fingers in a certain way, it should signal your dog to stop. The reason you prioritize this sign among others is that you want to teach your dog to stop biting and chewing your things at home. Once you have taught your dog how to stop, it will be much easier for you to tell him to lie down, sit, stand, or speak. They are easy to please. They love to play with children outdoors. They are friendly, not only with children but also with other pets. They are alert and intelligent. The dog can cheer you up after a tiring day at work. Loves playing out in the sun, but can also fare in colder temperatures. No matter how old they get, they will still try to clammer to your arms like they are still a puppy. Life Span Did You Know? Although a mixed-breed dog can take on any combination of traits from one or both of the parent breeds, there are some general traits you can expect in a Golden Mountain Dog. This designer dog breed tends to be a large, friendly, and affectionate family dog who is an absolute sweetheart. As a cross between two of the friendliest and sweetest dog breeds, a Golden Mountain Dog tends to have a sweet, gentle nature and an open, friendly, and playful personality. They get along well with just about everyone including children, other dogs, and other pets in the household. These dogs do tend to have a high prey drive, so they will likely need some extra socialization with smaller pets in the family. Bernese Golden Mountain Dogs are loyal. They bond closely with their families and love nothing more than to spend time with their favorite humans. They also tend to be open and friendly with strangers. Bernese Golden Mountain Dogs are moderately adaptable dogs. Because of their large size and high energy levels, they do not tend to be a great fit for apartments. They could adapt to an apartment, but there would need to be ample time dedicated daily to making sure they get the exercise they need. But, they are best-suited to homes with fenced yards where they can run and play freely. As with any dog breed, they are sensitive to heat. Due to their thick coat, they tend to prefer cooler climates. Their high prey drive often means they should only be let off-leash in secure areas. Because they bond so closely with their families, they do not like to spend long periods of time alone. As with any mixed breed, the Golden Mountain Dog can inherit the potential health concerns related to one, both, or neither of their parent breeds. They can also be prone to allergies. As a large dog breed, the Golden Mountain Dog will be at a higher risk of bloat. You can also ask to see relevant health clearances or test results. The Bernese Golden Mountain Dog is a highly intelligent dog that is eager to please their owners. This means they tend to be easy to train and they pick up on things quickly. This makes them a great fit for owners of all experience levels. Puppy training classes can still be a good idea as they tend to offer a lot of opportunities to socialize a puppy. A Golden Mountain Dog is a fluffy dog that sheds regularly year-round. Their coat ranges from medium to long in length. You may be able to get away with brushing a few times a week, but daily brushing is better to remove loose fur, work out tangles, and prevent mats. Trimming nails monthly is usually enough to keep them from growing too long. Ear infections are one of the most common health problems in dogs. And, dogs with floppy ears are more prone to them because their ears tend to trap more dirt and moisture. Many dog owners overlook this, which is why gum disease is another one of the most common health issues in dogs. Bernese Golden Mountain Dogs are high-energy dogs that need a lot of daily exercise to be happy and healthy. Daily walks plus some playtime and extra activity are usually sufficient for this dog. But, they will likely be up for more activity if you are. They are also athletic, sturdy, and versatile dogs, so try different activities with them to see what you both enjoy doing the most. You can try taking them swimming or hiking with you, taking trips to the dog park, playing frisbee , and more. You can even try training them for dog sports like agility, obedience, and more. A fully-grown Bernese Golden Mountain Dog usually stands inches tall and weighs pounds. A Golden Mountain Dog generally lives years. Although this designer breed is not recognized by the American Kennel Club, they are recognized by other notable dog organizations. Currently, we do not have any Bernese Golden Mountain Dog puppies available, but we can alert you when new Bernese Golden Mountain Dog puppies are available! Just enter your email address and click submit! Please enter a valid email address!

We're here to help! We firmly believe that if you are going to do something in life, do it the right way and do it as best as you can. We view our puppies as extensions of our family. The adoption process is an opportunity to blend our family and yours, and we keep in touch with many of our puppies' families over the years. Our advanced health testing, cutting-edge socialization, and continual customer support provide the best experience possible for families who adopt our golden retrievers. We know purchasing a puppy is a huge decision in your life, and we invite you to join us. We believe in good health. Many breeders focus on a "show" quality dog or a certain look. At Summer's Goldens, we focus on life-long family companions. While we carry many Champion bloodlines, we use careful genetic selection to lower the COI Coefficient Of Inbreeding of our dogs and improve the breed. Lower COI contributes to better long-term health and benefits golden retrievers as a whole. We don't breed just for today; we breed with the future in mind to have healthy, happy golden retrievers for decades to come. We follow the health-testing guidelines of the American Kennel Club and the Golden Retriever Club of America by examining our adult dogs' hips, elbows, eyes, and heart. We only want the finest goldens to become mothers and fathers. We also do genetic testing through Embark , one of the most reputable and thorough genetic companies. By pairing healthy, genetically diverse parents, we provide the best possible conditions for puppies to live long and healthy lives. This is especially important for purebred dogs like golden retrievers. Not only do we focus on health, but we also take extra care to socialize our puppies well. We strive to cultivate friendly personality traits in our Golden Retriever Puppies for sale. High-quality socialization during the first two months of a puppy's life is one of the most critical components of its lifelong development. Socialization provides a strong foundation for emotionally healthy, well-adjusted adult dogs. This is easy to claim but hard to do. There simply is no replacement for quality time spent with puppies. We follow the lead of Dr. Carmen L. Battaglia and start with early neurological stimulation ENS when the puppies are just three days old. We continue thorough socialization until the puppies leave us. This includes exposing our puppies to a variety of different surfaces to walk on; human touch all over their bodies; temperature changes; different sounds like fireworks, doorbells, cats meowing, and car engines; children; baths and nail trims, and more. We want our puppies to be more than just physically healthy; we want them to be mentally and emotionally ready for their future families. You are welcome to read our reviews on Google and Facebook , as well as the Testimonials on our site. Our goal is to improve the breed of golden retrievers and provide outstanding companions for families. Contact us today and experience joy through our golden retrievers! What can you expect when you pick up your puppy? All of our puppies receive plenty of love and attention. We include a care package with every puppy to help you get started on the right paw. It includes the puppy's baby photos, a blanket with the mother's scent, toys, a bag of the puppy's current food, and more to help your puppy transition as smoothly as possible. We offer lifelong support for every puppy and welcome families' questions and updates. We feel responsible for our puppies and want them to have loving homes their entire lives. We ask potential families to complete the Puppy Application on our website. We allow families to choose their puppy based on the order of deposits received. All deposits are non-refundable unless we do not have a puppy for you. Please contact Marta with any questions! Where do our Golden Retrievers live? Check out the state pages devoted to each location where our Golden Retriever adopters live in the Midwest. Breeders VS. The sad truth is that many pet store purchased pups actually come from puppy mills. Basically, there is zero authenticity with pet stores. When it comes to adopting any animal from a pet store, there is an increased risk of unforeseen health or genetic problems. You also cultivate a life-long relationship with the breeder, meaning support is available to you anytime you may need it. With My Golden Retriever Puppies , you have the option to come and visit both the puppy and the breeder in person! Golden Retrievers are an adaptable breed, meaning they are better at adapting to seasonal changes and various types of climate than certain other breeds. Goldens sport a double-coat, which ensures that these sweet pups are able to tolerate slightly colder temperatures than their friends from other breeds. Your pup deserves better than that, which is why here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we ensure high-quality care is taken of your pet at all times. We even have all types of golden retrievers for sale! At My Golden Retriever Puppies, we pride ourselves on our golden retriever price being fair and affordable for high quality puppies. Location Information for Indiana Customers Our home office is located in Ohio, but we understand that long-distance travel can be inconvenient. If you prefer to meet a breeder in person, they may be able to offer private visits at their home. Of course! Here at My Golden Retriever Puppies , we value family and authenticity, which is why we always guarantee our pups through our 2-year genetic health guarantee. Like adopting a Golden Retriever from a pet store, there is an increased risk when adopting a pup from a rescue center or shelter as well. For example, pups purchased through a shelter or rescue center are far less likely to come with the kinds of health guarantees and reassurances that a breeder can provide. What type of Golden Retrievers are sold in Indiana? We have some good news! Ready to make your Golden Retriever dreams come true? Take a look at our convenient list of available puppies. How do I know which breeders to trust in Indiana? Our independent network of trusted breeders have already been pre-screened and verified, so that you can focus on what really matters: choosing your dream puppy. Be the first to know when we have new puppies! All Rights Reserved.

Born in November .Comes with registration papers, shots, and clipped ears. They are pure breed as both parents come from a certified breeder. Gorgeous wrinkles,massive bone structure, compact and muscular. Home-raised, family socialized puppies with sweet, loving and playful temperament, loves children. Ready to be a family companion or your best friend. Current vaccinations, de-worming, new crate, veterinarian health check and health certificate. Health guaranteed. Awesome puppy looking for a new home. Gorgeous English bulldog puppies that love to run and play. These cuties are vet checked and up to date on shots and wormer. They are registered with the AKC, plus come with health guarantee provided by the breeder. They are family raised with children and enjoys getting lots of love and attention. To learn more about these babies, please contact us now via xxx xxx-xxx0. Male and female puppies 12 weeks old and very sweet. They have excellent temperament with all pets and children. They are housebroken and crate trained. They are updated on vaccinations and deworming. First Serious buyers will have Free Shipping. Text me only at xxx xxx-xxx2. View Detail Sweet English bulldog puppies for sale to lovers. These puppies have excellent temperaments and great conformation. They are great around children and would make a great addition to any family. They come with a one year health guarantee with all shots and their vaccine records. If interested you can contact me. This puppies are vet checked and will be coming alongside with their health papers. Please only serious inquiries as these pups mean a lot to us. We will only see these pups go to the best homes possible. We will feed them on Royal Canin puppy food which is one of the best quality foods xxxxxxxxx. First shots, de-wormed and health certificate. Family raised indoors at our home. View Detail Healthy English Bulldog Puppies For Re Homing they are health registered,very socialized and friendly with pets and kids at home, they are a face to die for and they are ready to make a loving home companion to a new pet loving and caring home. Very Strong Lively, View Detail Amazing male and female english bulldog Sweet, very affectionate bulldog, Male, just of 12 weeks of age, approx. Up to date on shots, neutered, Insured for year, with paper proof of all the aforementioned, Seeking a New home, sweet home. Home Fee is Negotiable! Note: Prefer a home with either older children that love to play, cuddle, pet, and train doggies, or an older person or single homebody seeking a bulldog dog to love and pamper to the max. This doggie loves to play fetch, hide n seek, and cuddle, lick, and run around the yard, when bouncing across the yard like a rabbit in a video game. They are vet-checked, registered and have complete shots. Super calm with everyone and friendly with other home.Text Me xxx xxx-xxx8 Text Me xxx xxx-xxx8 View Detail cute english bull dogs for rehoming vet checked potty trained and comes with a one year health guarantee. They are very healthy and friendly. They are 12 weeks old. Contact Via Text xxx xxx xxx3. Use the search tool below to browse adoptable Labradoodle puppies and adult Labradoodle in Honolulu, Hawaii. Browse thru our ID Verified puppy for sale listings to find your perfect puppy in your area. Join millions of people using Oodle to find puppies for adoption, dog and puppy listings, and other pets adoption. Ross T. Dogs for Sale in Honolulu, Hawaii. Prices for Pomsky puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI vary by breeder and individual puppy. The Great Dane is one of the best natured dogs! We recommend speaking directly with your breeder to get a better idea of their price range. The typical price for Shih Tzu puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy. They mind well and love to snuggle. A year health guarantee is in place to back up. Join millions of people using Oodle to find unique used cars for sale, apartments for rent, jobs listings, merchandise, and other classifieds in your neighborhood. Premier Pups is committed to providing four-legged dog lovers with happy, healthy Yorkshire Terrier puppies for sale near Honolulu, Hawaii. The non-profit adoptions center at Hawaiian Humane helps find homes over 7, pets each year. Search for dogs for adoption at shelters near Honolulu, HI. Guinea Pig Honolulu. We are a Goldendoodle breeder on the beautiful island of Oahu in Hawaii. Puppies for sale in Honolulu with Price. We have perfect little females Photos and contact info on Advertigo website. Puppies for sale. Because all breeding programs are different, you may find dogs for sale outside that price range. Prices may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy for sale in Honolulu, HI. Page 2: Dogs for Sale in Honolulu. At Premier Pups, we are a family of four-legged dog lovers that raises. Looking for a Maltese puppy in Honolulu, Hawaii? Adopt yours from our reputable breeders at Premier Pups. There are animal shelters and rescues that focus specifically on finding great homes for dogs in Honolulu, Hawaii. Feed Store Honolulu. Cane Corso puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI from trusted …. Beagle puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI from trusted breeders. Maltese Puppies for Sale in Honolulu, Hawaii. They will make wonderful family dogs and ranch hands. One red merle boy and 2 black tricolor boys. One tea cup and bigger half brother 8 week old puppies. Daily posts of puppies and dogs available for adoption in the Honolulu , HI Area. Don't miss what's happening in your neighborhood. Partnered with the best and most trusted breeders in the United States, Premier Pups strives to deliver happy and healthy Boston Terriers for adoption. Labradoodle puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI from trusted …. If you are unable to find your puppy in our Puppy for Sale or Dog for Sale sections, please consider looking thru thousands of Dogs for Adoption. Short hair with Unique patterns and large head, he is a stunner. Exotic Pet Store Honolulu. Available Animals : Hawaiian Humane Society. The typical price for Cane Corso puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy. Fish Pet Stores Honolulu. Find and adopt a pet on Petfinder today. Comes with 1st vacination and vet che. Chihuahuas for Sale in Honolulu. Join millions of people using Oodle to find unique used cars for sale, apartments for rent, jobs listings, merchandise, and other. Older pups, but they are potty trained with our house and set-up, up-to-date on vaccinations, and know their basic commands. Adopt a Labradoodle near you Labradoodle in cities near Honolulu, Hawaii Other pups in Honolulu, Hawaii Search for a Labradoodle puppy or dog near you Browse Labradoodle puppies and dogs in nearby cities Browse related breeds in Honolulu, Hawaii Labradoodle shelters and rescues in Honolulu, Hawaii Learn more about adopting a Labradoodle. Puppies for Sale in Honolulu, HI. Our adoptions team is well-equipped to help you find the right fit for your home and lifestyle. Our dogs work hard, play hard, love hard, and are part of the family. Puppies For Sale. Kalihi Pet Center Pet Stores. The breeders were so helpful and. The typical price for Pembroke Welsh Corgi puppies for sale in Honolulu, HI may vary based on the breeder and individual puppy. Dogs For Sale Honolulu. Fees vary between breeds pups are raised indoors and well socialized with people as well… read more in Pet Breeders. Pet Shop Honolulu. Jackshud pups for sale. At Premier Pups, we are a family of four-legged dog lovers that raises happy and healthy Maltese puppies. Please contact us to be added to the puppy waiting list. Had their first shot and dewormed. Browse these rescues and shelters below. Hawaii Puppies and Dogs for Adoption. We test our parents for genetic and health conditions, strive to breed the best tempered pets, and raise puppies on an advanced curriculum to empower their early development. Calls only xxx-xxx-xxxx for more information. Adoptions : Hawaiian Humane Society. Also, be sure to check the Dog Breeder listings in our Dog Breeder Directory, which feature upcoming dog litter announcements and current puppies for sale for that dog breeder. The Toy and Mini Poodle puppies at Premier Pups are raised in a warm and loving environment by dedicated. Honolulu Find Beagle puppies for sale Near Honolulu, HI With big floppy ears and an adorable face, the beagle is one of the most popular breeds in America. Our breeders are true dog lovers and professionals of the highest standards. Puppies For Sale in Hawaii .How much do Labradoodle puppies cost in Honolulu, HI? Labradoodle Puppies for Sale. Up to date on all shots Photos and contact info on Advertigo website. Buy, Sell or Adopt Pets in Honolulu. French Bulldogs for Sale in Honolulu. Our Puppy Agents and care specialists. We proudly show our breeding dogs in conformation. Will start giving away around 8weeks so about 4 weeks from now. All our pups are health-tested, pampered, and raised with love. Puppies For Sale in Honolulu County .His birthday is January 18, only 3 months right now a. Location: Couch Crasher Foster Home. Maltese Puppies can be Delivered to you in Honolulu, Hawaii. Many of our dogs end up around the world, including the great state of Hawaii. In Hawaii Olde English Bulldogges are a popular breed. We have also assisted in Old English Bulldog rescues in Hawaii. With affordable shipping, we can get you happy, healthy, and socialized Olde English Bulldog puppies in Hawaii. A premier breeder with unbeatable guarantees, customer service 2nd to none and of course our amazing quality bulldogges makes us the best spot for your Hawaii Olde English Bulldogge puppies. Below is a few pictures of some of our Hawaii Olde English Bulldogges residing with their loving families in Honolulu, Hawaii. If you are looking for a perfect bulldogge, give us a call .For avid facebookers you will also be able to interact with siblings of your pup and watch how they grow! Look no further! Happy, Healthy and Socialized Bulldogge puppies come from One of a Kind Bulldogs Truth is, we have an epidemic of puppy mills and backyard breeders. Our customers have done the hard work and inspected our facility for you out of state clients. I love to follow all of our friends and the adventures they have with their dawgs. Anyone else interested please do the same. Hes mellow, smart a huge :. We couldnt be happier with him and with Ary. Ary is always available to help answer questions of give advise and loves to keep up with his pups as they grow and beyond. In researching, we found Ary and the Olde English breed and could not be happier with the decision to get Bruce. Ary was incredible throughout the process, explaining everything we needed to know about the breed and the process of importing him into Hong Kong. He checked in with us several times before the flight and was in constant contact via text when we went to the airport to pick up Bruce, who arrived a little skeptical of his new surroundings but perfectly healthy and happy. The extent to which Ary cares about every one of the amazing dogs he sells is clear through his attention to detail and willingness to put in any extra effort to make sure his puppies get to, and stay in, good homes. He took to his kennel training and potty training so fast! In searching for our puppy, we did our due diligence researching online and then visiting your property in person. I was impressed with how happy and healthy all of your dogs are. I also enjoyed getting the opportunity to meet the parents of our puppy; they both seemed to have great termperments. Thanks for a wonderful puppy! Lauren W. I recently adopted her from Ary, and it was great! Ary is so devoted to all of his dogs, he even knows them by their bark! His property is a dog haven, dog runs, kiddie pools, and toys for days! He truly loves what he does. When I heard that Ary had rescued a litter of puppies i had to take a look! I fell in love with them all, as i do with all of his litters! He knows the background of each and every one of his dogs, he is so knowledgeable about the breed and is always there to answer any questions i have about Pepper. I will definitely be getting another bulldogge from Ary in the years to come. Thanks Ary! Jenna S. Iowa Hey Ary We just want to say thank for are boy Kane. He one of the best we gotten. He is are first bulldogge and wont be the last. Im just glad you made my day by letting take Kane home to live with use. S im looking forward to the day we get are girl from you. He is pounds and a real joy to have around! Ary is so helpful and we are grateful for him introducing us to this wonderful breed. There really is no better breed of dog! If you are looking for a bulldog and you should be! Shane S. Cares deeply about the health and well being of his dogs. A quality breeder with amazing dogs!! Cinda G. Brea, CA Just want to start off by saying: Ari, isnt just a Breeder hes a good guy and now a friend of mine!!!! I bought a puppy from him last feb !!! Since that time he taught me a lot about the breed to the point where i want to start breeding oldies!!!! So if you looking for a quality olde you have came to the right spot…. One of a Kind is now actively helping save shelter Bulldogges in high risk of euthanization, this is our way of giving back! Check our rescue site www. We are helping the olde English Bulldogges that were relinquished to shelters and ironically clening up a lot of the mess irresponsible backyard breeders are making. We always have olde English Bulldogges needing a home, if you dont wanna buy a puppy, help save a shelter dog. Follow Us on Social Media! Paypal Secured Payments.

By Barri J. Morrison, DVM on Jun. Today, the German Shepherd is one of the most popular dog breed in the United States. They are in the herding breed group, which means they are high-energy and love having a job or an outlet for regular exercise. They are known for their confidence, loyalty, and bravery, as well as their ability to thrive with expert levels of dog training and obedience. German Shepherds are commonly used as working dogs in the military and police for patrolling, bomb sniffing, and search and rescue. This large dog breed has an average weight ranging from 65—90 pounds. They are typically 22—26 inches tall with a life expectancy of 10—12 years. Caring for a German Shepherd German Shepherds are incredibly active dogs that require intense training and regular exercise to keep them out of trouble physically and mentally. They are best for active families and experienced pet parents. Socialization and consistent training will be essential when a German Shepherd is a puppy. This will help them to grow out of unruly behaviors such as nipping and jumping. German Shepherds have a double coat that sheds a lot. They will also typically go through a molting, which is a period of excessive shedding, one to two times a year. German Shepherd Health Issues While German Shepherds have a long life expectancy for a large breed dog, they are prone to several health problems. A trustworthy breeder will screen both male and female dogs being bred for health conditions such as degenerative myelopathy and hip and elbow dysplasia. German Shepherds commonly also get gastric dilation and volvulus GDV , commonly known as bloat, as well as cancer, allergies, heart disease, and a few other conditions. Pet parents of German Shepherds should be highly educated on the symptoms to look for, as early detection is the key to a good prognosis for any serious condition. Degenerative Myelopathy Degenerative myelopathy is a neurologic disorder that affects the spinal cord, slowly causing paralysis of the back legs. Early signs of degenerative myelopathy include weakness in the hind end and difficulty standing up. Watch your dog carefully for signs of pain and discomfort that come on gradually rather than suddenly. Check their claws at least once a month to watch for signs of uneven wear which would indicate a subtle lameness. There is no treatment for this condition, but physical therapy can help strengthen muscles and protect their ability to use their legs. While there is no cure, you can test for this condition using a DNA-based blood test submitted to the University of Florida or the University of Missouri. Elbow and Hip Dysplasia Elbow dysplasia is a degenerative joint disease that can cause lifelong pain in the front limbs. Hip dysplasia is another degenerative joint disease that affects the hind end. Clinical signs include limping, decreased range of motion, and other signs of pain—especially later in life, as arthritis sets in because of this disease process. The treatment for all degenerative joint diseases includes weight loss, reduced activity, joint protection supplements, anti-inflammatory and pain medications, or surgery. Cancer Cancer can develop in German Shepherds at any age, but usually occurs later in life. Common cancers include hemangiosarcoma and bone, lung, and intestinal cancers. Hemangiosarcoma is a malignant tumor that is most often detected in blood-rich organs such as the spleen and the heart. The signs of hemangiosarcoma are usually related to internal bleeding, with symptoms such as weakness, white or pale gums, trouble breathing, a distended abdomen, and collapse. Other signs are usually nonspecific and indicate overall malaise, including lethargy, panting, anorexia, vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. Depending on the extent of the cancer, treatment plans can include chemotherapy, radiation, or surgery. Bloat Gastric Dilation and Volvulus Bloat, or gastric dilation and volvulus GDV is a sudden life-threatening condition when the stomach enlarges with gas bloat and then twists upon itself GDV. This happens commonly in deep-chested, large-breed dogs such as German Shepherds. To limit the risk of GDV, German Shepherds should wait at least 30 minutes to one hour after eating to resume exercising. Another way to help prevent your German Shepherd from developing a life-threatening GDV would be via gastropexy. A gastropexy permanently attaches the stomach to the inside body wall. This fixation of the stomach prevents the stomach from being able to twist upon itself. Allergies Allergies in German Shepherds can be first seen with symptoms such as itchy skin, skin infections , ear infections , or digestive upset such as vomiting, diarrhea, or weight loss. A thorough medical history and physical examination, diagnostic testing of skin and ears, blood work, and fecal tests are warranted if you suspect that your dog has allergies. Allergies in dogs can be treated by avoiding the cause and the allergen and managing the symptoms that exist with diet therapy and medications. Heart Disease Heart disease, specifically DCM dilated cardiomyopathy , valvular disease, and heart murmurs, can be common in German Shepherds. A special diet should also be considered to restrict sodium intake and to increase the amount of certain amino acids to promote heart health. Dogs with significant heart disease should not be pushed to exercise beyond their limits. Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency EPI Exocrine pancreatic insufficiency EPI is a digestive health issue that occurs when the cells of the pancreas do not produce enzymes and hormones normally. The most common symptom is weight loss, despite your pet having a ravenous appetite. Other symptoms of EPI include soft stool or diarrhea; excessive gas; desire to eat feces and other unusual objects; flaky skin; or rough coat. Once the pancreas is damaged to the point that symptoms of EPI develop, you must give your dog pancreatic enzyme supplements and other treatments for the rest of their life. Nevertheless, with proper management, your dog can still live a happy life with this condition. Pannus Pannus, or superficial keratitis, is an immune-mediated painful eye condition that can cause blindness if not managed properly. It occurs more often in dogs that live at high altitudes, those with increased exposure to UV light, and in areas with severe air pollution. Keeping dogs indoors during the sunniest part of the day, providing a doghouse shelter, or trying a specialty pair of doggie sunglasses like Rex Specs may prove very helpful in preventing this issue. Most of these conditions have a genetic component and can be avoid by good breeding and preventive screening practices. They require a high-quality, age-appropriate diet to meet their nutritional needs. These diets are usually labeled puppy, adult, or senior. Offering table food and animal bones should be avoided, as they can cause stomach upset, vomiting, diarrhea, and anorexia, and they also have a much higher fat content than dog food. High-fat foods can also cause pancreatitis. How Much to Feed a German Shepherd In general, puppies should be fed 3—4 times per day and adult dogs should be fed twice a day. How much you feed is determined by the specific food your German Shepherd eats. You can ask your veterinarian, follow the package instructions, or contact the dog food manufacturer, as AAFCO-approved diets have veterinary nutritionists who help determine these requirements. There are some theories that German Shepherds that are fed smaller, more frequent meals have a lower incidence of bloat and stomach problems. How to Feed a German Shepherd Although there is a genetic component, science shows that rapid long bone growth in puppies such as German Shepherds and other large- and giant-breed dogs contributes to development of joint and bone conditions. Rapid bone growth is suspected to be caused by overfeeding and calcium supplementation. German Shepherds that are fed free-choice or overfed are at higher risk of rapid bone growth. Maintaining lean body weight will also help to decrease the rate of bone growth. Calcium supplements and adult dog foods rich in calcium should never be given to German Shepherd puppies under 6 months of age, as they cannot absorb calcium appropriately when they are that young. Conditions caused by rapid long bone growth and excess calcium supplementation can include: Hip and elbow dysplasia Osteochondrosis dissecans of the shoulder, knee, wrists, and ankles. This is improper growth and blood supply in a joint, which requires surgery to prevent osteoarthritis from developing. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy HOD. This is inflammation of the bone under the growth plate; it can cause severe joint swelling, pain, fever, anorexia, lameness, and not wanting to move. This is an inflammation of the long bones and associated blood vessels. Joint swelling is uncommon, but the symptoms are similar to HOD. MSM has all-natural anti-inflammatory properties. Omega-3 fatty acids high-quality fish oil are thought to have anti-inflammatory properties as well when given at appropriate doses. Research shows that reducing inflammation helps to control pain associated with osteoarthritis , which is a common problem in dogs with joint issues. Probiotics Probiotics such as Purina Calming Care can be helpful not just for digestive issues, but with minor behavioral issues as well. Digestive enzymes come in powdered form to assist dogs who have pancreatic issues, such as German Shepherds with exocrine pancreatic insufficiency. Other vitamin and mineral supplements are generally not needed for healthy puppies and adults, as they get all they need from their AAFCO-approved diet daily. The breed is considered to be smart and easy to train. They are known to be gentle family dogs and loyal protectors of those they trust. This loyalty can make German Shepherds seem more standoffish around strangers. It does take them some time to gain the trust of other people and other pets. German Shepherds are a very active and athletic breed that require a ton of exercise for both their physical and mental health. Without exercise they will develop unfavorable behaviors, due to irritation and pent-up energy. Controlled leash walks and supervised free play in safe, fenced-in areas should be started when they are puppies. Keeping a German Shepherd on a leash at all times when in public places is a good rule of thumb, as even the most well-trained dog can be distracted and not follow regular commands, leading to a possible confrontation. These results should be provided to a pet parent by the breeder of the German Shepherd before the dog is purchased. Not all temperament and behavioral issues are evident in a growing puppy, and it is impossible to predict whether a dog will be free of these problems. Find a trustworthy breeder who is committed to breeding the healthiest animals possible. German Shepherd Behavior German Shepherds, like other herding dogs, tend to be on the nippy side. They have very powerful jaws, and unfortunately, they frequently bite. Most aggressive German Shepherds are aggressive because of their owners. The German Shepherd dog is a pack animal. They need you to be the leader of the pack, providing structure and guidance. The key to success is consistency and practice; you will get the behavior you reward. German Shepherds from working lines have an extremely strong drive to work and may be more dog than most people can or want to handle. German Shepherds are very smart companions and exceptional workers. This helps you build the right foundation for your puppy to evolve into a well-adapted and well-mannered adult dog. Conversely, when your dog barks at you to pet them, do not start petting them until they sit down and quietly wait for you to do so. Soon they will learn that they get what they desire without the excessive, unnecessary behavior. German Shepherds thrive on consistency, positive reinforcement, and a reward system, such as a treats or toys to help strengthen the human-animal bond. They become very bonded to all members of the family and will be willing to participate in many family activities. Fun Activities for German Shepherd Herding. References 1. Clinical and pathological effects Degenerative myelopathy is a fatal, chronic, progressive, degenerative disease of the spinal cord, affecting several breeds of dog including the GSD. In time, it leads to complete paralysis in all limbs tetraparesis. To understand the disease process some knowledge of the anatomy of the spinal cord and nervous system is needed. The nervous system is comprised of the central nervous system — the brain and spinal cord — and the peripheral nerves, which connect to the spinal cord throughout its length. It receives messages from sensors throughout the body sensory functions , processes this information, decides what changes need to occur and then sends out messages to glands and muscles to make these changes motor functions. The spinal cord runs along the length of the spine, which protects it. The spine is divided into 5 different regions — cervical neck , thoracic chest , lumbar lower back , sacral pelvic and coccygeal tail. The spinal cord is similarly split into regions and correspondingly labelled. The spinal cord is comprised of two major types of tissue: white and grey matter. The white matter contains the axons — long wire-like fibres - of the sensory and motor neurons that carry nerve impulses either to or from the brain, the grey the cell bodies of the neurons. The axons of the motor neurons, that start in the brain, are often called the upper motor neurons UMNs , and their connections with the cell bodies of the nerves cells that go on to form the peripheral nerves the lower motor neurones LMNs. To increase the speed with which axons can transmit their impulse the electrical message that they carry , they are insulated much like electrical wires in our homes. The insulating layer is called the myelin sheath and it is because of its fat content, that the tissues of the spinal cord that it makes up appear white. In DM there is a slow, progressive degeneration of the white matter of the thoracic section of the spinal cord, with loss of both myelin and axons Shell .Abnormal structures called cytoplasmic inclusions are also observed within the diseased tissue when it is examined under the microscope this can only be done at post mortem Rusbridge no date. The degeneration of the spinal cord tissue appears to be caused by the action of excessive amounts of damaging reactive oxygen species molecules ROS : biochemicals that react with and damage the components of cells, causing oxidative or free radical injury. High numbers of ROS occur with this condition, due to a mutation in the gene which codes for the production of the superoxide dismutase-1 SOD1 enzyme, which is produced by cells to help break down ROS and limit any damage they might cause Awano et al .DM in dogs is comparable to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis ALS a progressive, neurodegenerative disease of humans Awano et al .Prior to the discovery of the SOD1 gene mutation, possible causes of DM were suggested as genetic, nutritional Averill , Williams et al , or immunological Barclay and Haines , Waxman et al .The first signs are typically seen at around 8 to 9 years of age and involve hindlimb ataxia swaying when moving. This may be asymmetrical worse on either the right or left side. The dog may also have difficulty getting up and its hindlimb nails may become scuffed to the point of bleeding. DM has an insidious gradual onset and can easily be misdiagnosed as hip dysplasia or other orthopaedic problems, which are also common in GSDs. Unlike many other of these conditions, DM seems painless Cherubini et al .Owners may notice the hindlegs crossing over as the dog walks. In this stage of the disease, it is mainly the UMNs of the spinal cord that are affected, along with sensory nerves. Spinal reflexes, when tested, often seem to be intact but the dog seems to be unable to sense exactly where the hindlimbs are or place them accurately - hence the scuffing of the nails and ataxic gait. With progression of the disease, loss of motor functions and signs of LMN dysfunction manifest in the hindlimbs. These show as weakness leading to inability to stand and paralysis in the hindlimbs. In time, the muscles of the hindlegs waste away. Most owners elect for euthanasia once paraplegia has occurred; however, if allowed to progress, the disease will ascend up the spinal cord to affect the forelegs leading to tetraplegia loss of use of all four limbs Awano et al .The rate at which the disease progresses is often not uniform rather it is characterised by periods of slow progression followed by rapid changes Cherubini et al .Urinary and faecal incontinence may occur Shell and trauma to nails and the hindlimbs or pressure sores may occur secondary to the paresis loss or impaired movement , paralysis and incontinence. There is currently no effective treatment Cherubini et al , Rusbridge no date although physiotherapy has been shown to prolong the time some dogs can remain mobile Kathmann et al .Return to top 2. Intensity of welfare impact DM is itself not a painful disease Cherubini et al , Shell ; however, affected dogs may be caused distress by being unable to function or behave as normal. Trauma may also occur to nails and the skin of the hind limbs as sensation and loss of function progresses. Once paralysed, these dogs have long-term care needs which many owners find difficult and some dogs will be euthanased because of this. Ultimately, when earlier euthanasia is declined, DM leads to an inability to carry on any kind of normal life and finally to death. Return to top 3. Duration of welfare impact Degenerative myelopathy usually appears in dogs from 8 or 9 years of age Cherubini et al , Rusbridge no date , however, animals as young as 6 months can be affected Cherubini et al .The condition is progressive from the start although the rate of progression of the disease may not be uniform. Most owners of affected dogs elect to have them euthanased within 12 months of the onset of signs, often when they become paraplegic. Deterioration to death can take over 3 years Awano et al .Return to top 4. Number of animals affected Degenerative myelopathy was first identified in GSDs. The commonest cause of progressive hindlimb dysfunction in older, large-breed dogs Wheeler , it was originally thought to only affect GSDs, this is now known not to be the case. Wahl et al consider it a major genetic disease afflicting GSDs. The exact percentage of GSDs to be affected is currently unknown although researchers at Missouri University suggest that a relatively high proportion of individuals from the following breeds: GSD, Boxer, Pembroke corgi, Chesapeake Bay retriever and Rhodesian ridgeback have the predisposing mutated gene and that many of these genetically-affected individuals will go on to manifest the disease. From data on estimates of total dog population in the UK and on the percentage of all micro-chip registered dogs that are German Shepherd Dogs Alsatians Lucy Asher, , personal communication , we estimate that the UK population size of this breed may be around , Return to top 5. Diagnosis A definitive diagnosis of DM can only be made after death by microscopic examination of the spinal cord Cherubini et al .A tentative diagnosis of DM, whilst the dog is alive, can be made by a veterinary surgeon through elimination of all other possible causes of the signs. This will include the need for a full physical and neurological examination examination of the nervous system by means of tests to check out the health of various nerve pathways. It may also include blood tests, spinal x-rays including myelography x-rays after injection of a dye into the spinal canal , analysis of cerebrospinal fluid the fluid that bathes the brain and spinal cord , CT computed tomography scans and MRI magnetic resonance imaging scans, the most useful diagnostic test for imaging the brain and spinal cord. The tentative diagnosis is made if the results of all tests including the MRI scans are normal, though the CSF analysis may reveal a high level of protein Cherubini et al .As DM is most often seen in older dogs it is not uncommon for them to have concurrent disease which often will cause abnormalities on these tests and may complicate the diagnostic process. It is also possible for osteoarthritis of the hips or spine to develop secondary to DM due to uneven weight bearing in the hindlimbs as the disease progresses Cherubini et al .Return to top 6. Genetics Recently a gene connected to the development of DM has been identified. Dogs which are homozygous for the mutated gene SOD1, i. Currently, not all the animals identified with a pair of the abnormal genes have developed the disease. It is not known if they will go on to develop the disease later or if other unknown risk factors are necessary for disease development in these individuals College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, no date. Animals with one abnormal gene appear to be healthy carriers i. The problem has therefore been categorised as an autosomal recessive disorder with incomplete penetrance i. Return to top 7. How do you know if an animal is a carrier or likely to become affected? DNA testing can now be performed to identify animals at risk of developing the disease and carrier animals. All animals should be tested prior to purchase and breeding. Return to top 8. The researchers who developed this test believe that careful use of it could help decrease the incidence of DM in affected breeds although they feel this occurs slowly, over many generations College of Veterinary Medicine, University of Missouri, no date. Elimination of a recessive gene with incomplete penetrance from a breed is not straightforward if its prevalence is high because removing all carrier animals, that possess a copy of the gene, may significantly affect the number of animals suitable to breed from, and hence the size of the gene pool. Careful breeding of carrier animals to known healthy non-carrier individuals is recommended Bell , with slow replacement of carrier breeding animals with non-carriers over time. If, as suspected, the mutated gene is common in GSDs, halting breeding from all carrier animals may significantly affect the number of animals suitable to breed from, and hence the size of the gene pool. This could lead to excessive inbreeding and the appearance of other unwanted genetic diseases of which there are many. To avoid such a problem, the careful breeding of carrier animals with non-carriers, either from within the breed or from outside the breed, seems necessary. To enable the elimination of the gene whilst minimising the risks of other genetic problems emerging due to greater levels of inbreeding, Bell recommends that, over time, breeders slowly replace carrier breeding animals with non-carriers. Return to top 9. Jul 22, Share We view German Shepherds as intelligent, loyal, and brave dogs who can take on even the toughest of tasks. But like all other dogs, German Shepherds have their fair share of health issues that slowly arise as they start to age. The genes get passed on from litter to litter and is rather painful since it is a malformation in the hip joint. Image Credit: makeitclear, Pixabay 2. Elbow Dysplasia Like hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia affects many larger dog breeds from a line of poorly bred ancestors. Instead of the issue with the hip, the same problem occurs in the elbows, and it can vary from mild to severe symptoms. It usually makes it uncomfortable to walk and, unfortunately, not much can be done once a dog is diagnosed. Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus GDV Also called bloat , GDV is a serious issue that occurs when dogs eat food too quickly and then participate in too much physical activity. The gas builds up in the stomach and the pressure from the bloating makes it difficult for dogs to breathe. Some dogs go into shock or eat grass to try to vomit. This is a life-threatening condition, and your dogs should be taken to the vet immediately if you think they might have it. Try to feed your German Shepherds three small meals a day to prevent the problem. The signs for diabetes include dry mouth, fatigue, excessive eating and urinating, and swollen feet. Image Credit: Flashieeh, Shutterstock 5. Epilepsy German Shepherds are known for having seizure disorders. Even though epilepsy is incurable, there are many ways to help prevent the symptoms. Hemophilia Hemophilia has occurred in German Shepherds due to a long line of inbreeding. Even the smallest of cuts can be serious for a dog. This disease is more common in German Shepherds than many other dog breeds, so be careful when out exercising with them. Cataracts Another health issue that your German Shepherd might get as they age is cataracts. This issue is usually easy to tell when it is happening because you start to see that their eyes look a little more cloudy or they start running into things more often. If they progress, it becomes challenging for dogs to see anything at all. Image Credit: Pauline Loroy, Unsplash 8. Degenerative Disc Disease is common in large animals, but it can even start to manifest when the dogs are still young. A lot of breeders try to avoid this issue. Get your German Shepherd checked for spinal abnormalities from when they are puppies to keep this in check. Panosteitis German Shepherds grow very quickly and sometimes limp a lot as they mature from 5 to 14 months old. It is more common in German Shepherds because they have many stomach issues like Exocrine Pancreatic Insufficiency. Of course, some breeds have fewer than others, but a lot of them can be prevented with a healthy diet and lifestyle. Over time, visits to the vet can really add up. If you're looking for a good pet insurance plan that won't break the bank, you may want to look at Lemonade. This company offers adjustable plans customized to your pet's needs. However, this breed does have several common health issues that owners should be aware of. The more extreme conditions are a result of inbreeding, so responsible breeders take special care to trace the genealogy before breeding. The average lifespan of a German Shepherd is 10 to 12 years old, but certain conditions might shorten that. Here is a look at some of the most common types of health problems that German Shepherds have and how to recognize them. Diabetes Diabetes is not something that we think of when we think of canine ailments. However, it is not unheard of for German Shepherds to be diagnosed with this health problem. If your dog has one or more of these symptoms, it does not necessarily mean that they have diabetes. However, they should be checked out to ensure that they do not have diabetes or another serious illness. However, it is much more serious than the average bloat that humans experience after eating too much. This is an extremely painful experience for your dog and also very dangerous. The condition can sometimes come on very quickly. Some of the symptoms that your dog may experience with GDV include: Gums are pale or almost white in color Excessive drooling Gagging and retching. If this happens on a weekend or some other time when your regular vet is closed, look to see if there is an emergency animal hospital nearby. With these conditions, dogs will start to go downhill very quickly. In order to give them the best chance at survival, treatment must begin quickly. Perform an X-Ray to get a better look and see if the stomach is twisted. Perform surgery. The only way to fix a twisted stomach is to perform a surgery. Depending on what goes on during the surgery, your dog will need a lot of time to recover from such an invasive operation. While your dog is recovering, it is imperative that he or she gets a lot of rest and refrain from physical activity. Your dog should be monitored closely for the first few days. If they start to vomit or show any signs that their health is deteriorating, you should call the vet immediately. Hip Dysplasia This is a common problem for German Shepherds and other large dog breeds. This is a genetic disorder that usually happens while the German Shepherd puppy is still in the growth stage. The hip socket is more shallow than usual and it causes the hip joint to become loose, which can cause a lot of pain for the dog. Sometimes, hip dysplasia can go unnoticed, but over time, it can cause a dog to develop other problems, such as arthritis and muscular issues. Some of the most common signs that a dog is experiencing hip dysplasia include: Limping for seemingly no reason Hopping when running Popping sounds coming from the joint Slow to stand up Slow to lay down Difficulty getting on and off beds, couches, and other furniture If you notice any of these signs and symptoms, it is a good idea to schedule a vet visit for your dog. There are a few different treatment options available for dogs with hip dysplasia, including surgery. Your vet will examine your dog and determine the best course of treatment. Elbow Dysplasia Elbow Dysplasia is just like hip dysplasia, except for the fact that it affects the elbows and not the hips. The symptoms are also going to be similar. You may notice your dog limping or not wanting to run. Just like with hip dysplasia, surgery is also a treatment option. But sometimes, a vet will try to just manage the pain if the dysplasia is not severe. Cataracts Sometimes it seems like these dogs grow up so fast. In truth, when German Shepherds stop growing is at 18 months. As German Shepherds age, some have been known to develop cataracts. This is the same eye disorder that humans can get as well. It is pretty easy to tell if your older dog has cataracts as you will be able to see a noticeable white film develop on the lens of their eyeball. If left untreated, cataracts can cause your older dog to go completely blind in that eye. Another thing to note is that German Shepherd skin issues are fairly common. This breed is prone to yeast dermatitis, moist dermatitis, and allergy dermatitis. Make sure to have these conditions treated by a vet as soon as you spot on your pup. Having a German Shepherd can be a rewarding experience. They are a playful, protective, and loyal dog breed. As long as you stay vigilant and monitor any unusual symptoms, you should be able to have your playful pooch around for years to come. Check out Vetericyn if there are products that can alleviate the symptoms of any of these conditions. Reviewed by Dan Richardson, Veterinarian Dan Richardson has been a practicing veterinarian for over 10 years. He specializes in surgery and orthopedics. Dan is originally from rural western Nevada and attended the University of Idaho for undergraduate study and Oregon State University for Veterinary School. The Richardson Family enjoys camping and spending time on the water fishing, paddle boarding, or digging their feet in the sand somewhere warm. Sources: Pet MD. Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperosmolar Coma in Dogs. Canine elbow dysplasia. Cataracts in Dogs.

We may earn money or products from the companies mentioned in this post. That sweet ball of fluff who will be your walking buddy, later snuggling up on the couch together. After all, your pup will probably be with you for a dozen years or more. So he has to be a great fit. It should never be a hasty decision. But it should also be FUN! That brings us to the question: how to choose the perfect puppy? Read on! You picture fun romps in the field, playing frisbee, and showing little Max off to all of your friends. But before getting a puppy, there are so many practical things to review in deciding whether to even get a puppy. My first dog as an adult was a shih tzu named Cuddles. My husband and I had discussed getting a dog for a while. We both worked and knew that the pup would take up a lot of time. Not to mention the expenses associated with a dog. But I saw the little gold and white week-old ball of fluff and was smitten. Luckily, I had a family member who could take her out to potty and exercise her during the day. In choosing your new pup, the following considerations are important. Are You Active or a Couch Potato? Can You Afford a Puppy? A puppy is more than the initial purchase. That can be a drop in the bucket compared with the lifetime costs of owning a dog. There are bills for: food and treats; chews; vets; crates ; beds; collars, harnesses, and leashes; training classes; dog walkers; dog daycare; pet insurance; enzymatic cleaners ; grooming—and more. These can really add up. You may decide not to get pet health insurance and not need pet walkers or doggie daycare, but expenses can really add up over the years. Do You Have Children? Children and pets can be a great match. You want to make sure that you choose the right canine. A toy breed may not be the right choice for a toddler. A tiny dog may inadvertently be injured by such a young child. We raised puppies for years before we had kids so we had a good idea of expectations for our puppy. If you have very young kids a rambunctious Lab may not be the right choice. Do You Have Other Pets? You need to take into consideration any other pets you have. If you have a senior dog, for example, a young puppy may not be a great choice. Are you gone too many hours to take care of a puppy? A friend of mine who works hour days decided not to get a puppy. The pup would have been alone too long. A puppy needs attention and potty breaks. Of course we need to work. You may be able to have someone come in and exercise, feed, and potty the pup. And give him attention during the day. As I discussed, you may need help with the new puppy. If you have reliable relatives or friends who can regularly help out, it can make getting a puppy much more realistic. Or you can hire pet sitters or walkers to help out. If you live in small quarters, a large, rambunctious breed may not be best. As young puppies, goldens can be wild, even inside. Of course, with a sufficient amount of mental stimulation and physical exercise, you can make it work. After Dalmations came out, everyone wanted one. Dalmations are high-drive, independent dogs. I was called to work with a family who got a Dalmation puppy that was wrecking their house. The minute walk the pup was getting was just a warm-up for the dog. We set up an exercise and training program for the puppy and the family was able to keep him. Do your research. The American Kennel Club lists purebred dogs and their needs and health profiles. Before choosing a certain breed, consider the following. Large or Small? You should have an idea what size dog you want. Conversely, if you want a frisbee or jogging partner, a chihuahua would be a bad choice. Why Do You Want a Dog? This may seem like a silly question. Most people want a dog for companionship. But you may have additional things in mind. You may want a jogging partner. Or a dog to do therapy work with. Or to show in obedience. Grooming Needs Would you love spending time every day brushing and combing a dog? Exercise Needs As you know, some breeds need a lot of exercise. We also do obedience training and she plays with puzzle toys. Lifespan Of course we want our pups to live forever. But some breeds generally live longer than others. Generally, larger—especially giant breeds—have shorter lives than their smaller counterparts. Friendliness or Independence Of course within any breed and litter you can have a wide array of personalities. But there are certain breed characteristics that can help guide your choice of which breed you want. I have dogs at both ends of the spectrum. My golden retriever Riley loves everyone and would do great in any setting. But my Lhasa apso Ralphie—true to breed—is more discriminating when making friends. So Riley would be great with well-behaved children and would love to be hugged by them. Health Problems Any dog can have unforeseeable health problems. But some breeds are likely to have more health problems than others. For example, bulldogs, pekingese, and pugs are among the breeds that are more likely to have breathing problems and overheat. Breed Types Of course there are many breeds and mixes to choose from. If you get your dog from a breeder, consider what lines your puppy comes from. If from working lines, the dog will likely be more intense than if from show lines. All of the below classes of dogs can make great companions in the right setting. Herding dogs were bred to herd, of course. Popular examples are border collies, Australian shepherds, and Shetland sheepdogs. Generally, they require more exercise than some breeds like toy breeds. And they may become destructive if left to their own devices. Also, some bark excessively and may not be good in an apartment setting. Sporting dogs were bred to hunt. They have a lot of energy and need regular, invigorating exercise. Popular examples are golden retrievers, labrador retrievers, and cocker spaniels. Just like other working-type dogs, hounds have almost limitless energy. So attention to you may be an issue. Also, some bay when excited. Popular examples are beagles, dachshunds, and greyhounds. Dogs from the working group are alert, intelligent, strong, and bred to work with people to perform various tasks. Some were bred to guard property, to pull sleds, or to perform water rescue. Some popular examples are Doberman pinschers, huskies, and rottweilers. They require not only exercise and precise training so that their natural instincts are kept in check. Terriers are feisty and energetic and vary greatly in size. They were bred to hunt and kill vermin, So a squirrel they see on their walk will be very alluring to them—and, without training, they may almost pull you off your feet trying to get to it. Some popular examples are Parson Russell terriers, Staffordshire terriers, or West Highland whirte terriers. Pit bulls which is a generic name for many types of terriers are also in this group. Toy breeds were generally bred as amiable companions. They may make great lap dogs and have big personalities despite their small stature. Shih tzus, Maltese, Yorkshire terriers, and chihuahuas are some very popular examples. Nonsporting group dogs are a catch-all group with various sizes and personalities. Some popular examples are bulldogs, French bulldogs, bichon frise. There are so many options. You may want a certain breed. So a breeder or rescue of that breed should meet your needs. Just make sure that the breeder is a good one. Good breeders do so to improve their breed. Bad ones care only about making money. They do any necessary health certifications. They put a lot of time into their litters socializing them to new experiences and people. Good breeders are invested in their litters and will help you choose the right puppy for you. They stand behind their dogs for life and will readily answer your questions and take the dog back if you need to give him up. You can get referrals to such breeders through breed clubs, dog clubs, and resources such as the American Kennel Club. A reputable, good breeder also will have questions for you regarding your family, work, home, activity level, and reason why you want a dog or their breed. The pups will also have been checked by a veterinarian and been given the appropriate vaccinations for their age. There are also breed rescues that rehome dogs of their chosen breed. However, they rarely have puppies. Shelters and rescue groups can also be great places to get a puppy. Many use foster homes, where a puppy or litter of puppies are located. Foster parents get to know the puppies and can help determine whether any particular puppy is a good fit for you. Many rescue groups try to place a puppy in the best home possible. When I adopted my Aussie mix puppy Mille, the rescue group would adopt her out only to people who had experience with herding breeds. Many shelters are first come-first served. In order to place as many dogs as possible, they will adopt out a puppy to the first person who wants him—barring any obvious reason not to. How to Choose a Puppy from a Litter There are many tests that can be given to determine whether a puppy is a good fit. This assumes you have a litter to choose from. There is a range of temperaments and personalities in each litter, No puppy may perfectly meet every test below. But look at the big picture. So, in addition to your own observations, you can bring a friend along to have another opinion about the litter. Or you could hire a trainer to help you choose. Overall, as a companion, a middle-of-the-road dog usually works out best. Also, a reputable breeder or good rescue group or shelter who knows the puppy can help guide you in making your decision. See the Mother and Littermates If you can, watch the puppy and his littermates and mother interact. The puppy you choose should be able to take a proper correction and back off then re-engage. The breeder should have the mother available. Check Out the Puppy The puppy should look healthy and alert, not lethargic. Inspect his coat and skin. He should be well-fed with a little fat around his rib cage. The pup should run and walk normally, without a limp. A puppy should engage with people and be curious, not slink away or cower. A scared puppy will probably be more difficult to socialize and train. Will he follow you if you walk away? Clap your hands and make a kiss sound. Will he come towards you or run for the hills? Hold Puppy on His Back Hold him on his back for about 30 seconds. Ideally, he should briefly struggle and relax. When I had two sheltie puppies to choose from and one fought constantly when held and the other struggled briefly, then settled, I chose the latter. I had already gotten another dog from this great breeder. I wanted a dog who was a companion but who I also wanted to show in competitive obedience. My choice turned out to be the right one. Duffy was a great dog to live with and became a nationally-ranked obedience dog. He also did agility for fun and was a therapy dog who visited a hospital on a weekly basis. Hold the puppy and touch and gently open his mouth. Look in and gently rub his ears. .Gently touch each paw, even putting slight pressure on them. The puppy should be comfortable with these activities. He may slightly struggle. But a puppy who really fights against such touching, even to the point of mouthing or growling may turn out to be difficult to groom, handle, and pet. Pet the dog calmly from head to toe. He should enjoy it and relax. Pick the Puppies Up If you hold each puppy around the middle, ideally he would be relaxed and not struggle. Also, cradle the puppy up against you. Ideally, he should relax and like the attention. He may startle at first but should rebound and even go and check out what made the noise. Social Dominance Fall to the ground at least a few feet away from the puppy. He should want to come over and see what happened. Even if you like the look of a certain puppy, he may not be the right puppy for you. Consider the above factors as well as the following when choosing a puppy. The dogs live in rabbit-type hutches or dark barns. They receive no proper socialization, vet care, or human contact. There are also small back-yard breeders which, essentially, are puppy mills on a smaller scale. The mothers are bred at each heat and have horrible lives. Dogs sold in pet shops and through the internet usually come from them. Of course, do your own research because no one will admit they are a puppy mill. But two puppies may bond too much with each other. And to train, socialize, and exercise each puppy requires a lot of time, energy, and money. The dogs in shows have been highly trained and specially selected for their jobs. Then pick a great breeder, rescue, or shelter. Final Thoughts Getting a new puppy is such an exciting time! Do you have a puppy? How did you decide to choose him? Please let us know in the comment section below. Helps ease anxiety in their new home. We love using Bully Sticks to help divert these unwanted behaviors. For a list of all the supplies we get for our new service dog puppies check out our New Puppy Checklist on the PuppyInTraining. I had wanted a female red lab, none were available. A trainer near me was getting a second dog from a renowned breeder in Ireland and she asked if he had a puppy for diabetic service dog work. Both her pup and my pup flew over from Ireland together. A pup with a desire to work, a willingness to please, and a calm demeaner. I received a cute ball of fluff, a male yellow lab pup with red ears and red highlights. A good breeder is able to match you with a dog that will meet your needs, give them all the information you can. I never met the breeder, but my pup arrived at 10 weeks old already already on his way to being well socialized, exposed to sounds, not nervous, liked the vacuum, fireworks are not a problem, loves the motorcycle sounds, handled all sorts of traffic noise at 3 months. We started his public training at 3 months old and he handled it like a champ. I had to buy a motorcycle with a sidecar as he always wanted to go out when the bikes were started up, so at 9 months he was in the sidecar with Rex Specs goggles. Did I mention he loves to travel and meet me people, when his tail wags which is all the time his whole body wags. Tweet on Twitter Buying your first dog can be a life changing decision. Choosing the right dog will help to ensure that your life changes in a good way. There are some wise precautions you might like to consider before viewing any litter of Labrador puppies. Or choosing which one to bring home with you. Buying a Puppy from a Friend It is often tempting to buy a puppy in an opportunistic moment of enthusiasm. Perhaps because you happen to hear of a friend who has a litter that will be ready to go to their new homes soon. Or a neighbour who has a gorgeous litter of puppies that you fall in love with when you pop over to admire. But the puppy that lives just around the corner, and the puppy that is going to bring you years of pleasure, may be two very different things. It is a really good idea to put your sensible hat on at times like these, and to approach the whole business of selecting your puppy in business-like way. The first decision to make is to choose what type of Labrador you wish to end up with. Which characteristics are most important to you, and will help him to fit into your family best. Choosing a Working or Show dog? Those bred for work, and those bred for the show ring. The working bred dog is generally very responsive and easy to train. But he may also fall short of what you expect in appearance. If you are hoping to get involved in gundog fieldwork, or agility at some point it is important to purchase a field or working bred labrador. Of course choosing a dog is so much more than just weighing up the pros and cons. There are now a number of hereditary diseases in labradors that can be tested for. Routine testing under these schemes is gradually growing in popularity for a number of conditions. These include hip dysplasia, elbow displasia, and a number of inherited eye diseases. However, there are still many puppies available for sale in the UK whose parents have not been tested, or that have been tested and fall below the necessary standard for breeding. Amazingly, in the UK, the Kennel Club will still register puppies from parents that have poor hip scores. Hopefully this will change in the future. You will need to read up on these to make sure you understand what you are looking for. Finding the right dog breeder Knowing where to look for a breeder is not easy. Labrador breeders come in all shapes and forms. At their best breeders are dedicated experts on their breed, who produce a few litters each year of top quality puppies for their own kennels show or field and sell any surplus to quality pet homes. At their worst, breeders are simply puppy farmers who churn out litter after litter with no thought to the health and welfare of either the puppies or their mother. Telling the difference is not always straightforward. In some cases these may be excellent puppies, in other cases they will not. The key to a good litter is a quality female dog with excellent health clearances, put to a compatible quality dog with equally excellent health clearances, and given quality care throughout pregnancy and beyond. The female dog must have a purpose beyond producing puppies, whether that is as show dog, working dog or highly treasured family pet. On the whole, this is more likely to be achieved by an experienced breeder. The Kennel Club in the UK run an accredited breeders scheme, and members agree to meet certain minimum standards. However, there are many excellent breeders who are not members of this scheme so do not dismiss a breeder on these grounds alone. The scheme is not perfect yet, and its standards are not necessarily enforced, as the KC prefers a voluntary approach. If you are inexperienced it is very important that you get some help in finding a breeder. Choosing one from a newspaper advert or from the internet when you know nothing of the source can be a risky decision. If you want to buy a pup from top working parents, then you may find the pups are all spoken for very quickly, long before they are eight weeks old. It can be disheartening to phone advert after advert only to find all the pups are gone. It pays to plan ahead. If you do some research, locate a really nice female dog, and book one of her pups before they are born, you may find the whole process a lot smoother. You may also be able to enjoy visiting and photographing the puppies whilst they are growing. Check the ancestry of the dog If you are buying a Labrador for gundog work, or agility, make sure the parents of the litter you want to view are from working stock, look for a few FTCH and FTW field trial champion and field trial winner in the pedigree. If you are hoping for success in the show ring, you should be looking for CH and SH CH title SH CH is show champion, CH is a show champion with a working certificate which is not a demanding or difficult test of working abilities. Viewing the puppies Some puppies will be raised in the home with the family. This can be ideal, as the pup will have been accustomed to people and the hustle and bustle of family life from the very beginning. Be aware though that not everyone who has a litter of puppies knows what they are doing. Look at how the pups are handled and how clean their quarters are. The pups should smell nice, and look bright and healthy. The litter may have been whelped and raised in kennels. This is also perfectly acceptable provide the breeder has accounted for this. An experienced breeder will have made sure that the pups have had plenty of human contact regardless of where they are living. Again look at the surroundings. A responsible breeder will run a clean and tidy kennels. Always see a puppy with its mother. If possible see the father too. The parents should be friendly and relaxed. The mother may not look her best seven or eight weeks after giving birth, but she should look healthy. Again, if you doubt your ability to make a judgement on a puppy or his parents, take an experienced person with you. Dog or female dog? Until fairly recently male dogs were more popular than female dogs. Fashions come and go, and at the moment, female dogs seem to be in favour. You will hear various claims as to the differences in temperament between them, but most of these contradict each other and it really is a matter of personal taste. The main disadvantage of a female dog is that she will come into season twice a year each year from the age of months until the end of her life. This can be inconvenient. Having your female dog spayed will prevent her coming into season, but the procedure is a major and expensive operation, and recent research has shown a few problems associated with spaying that you will want to consider before making your choice. Because female dogs are currently fashionable, you will probably pay more for a female dog, but as the price of a puppy is such a tiny fraction of what you will spend on her over her lifetime this is probably the least relevant factor. The appearance of a male dog may be more pleasing to some. Males tend to develop a squarer, more chunky head which some owners prefer. The average male will also grow a little taller and weigh a little more than a female. These differences are however fairly minor ones. If you are not sure whether you want a dog or female dog, keep an open mind. At least you will have a wider choice of puppies. Which puppy? If you have booked a puppy in advance from a reputable breeder, there may be little or no choice as to which puppy you have. It is not unusual to find that all puppies due in popular kennels have been booked before birth. If you are keen to buy a dog with plenty of red ink on the pedigree, you may need to do some research and book the pup as soon as the female dog has been mated. If you do get the chance to choose your puppy out of several in a litter, how should you go about it? Puppy Health Having made sure that the parents of the puppy you are viewing have good health clearances is a good start. You still need to make sure your puppy is healthy. A thorough check up by your own vet soon after you get him home will help put your mind at rest. But how can you be sure the puppy you are viewing is not sickly even before you bring him home? Some puppies may be more lethargic than others when you visit, but this may be a reflection of how hard they have been playing before you arrived, rather than how healthy they are. A good breeder will not try and sell an unhealthy puppy and if relevant, will point out any minor defects to you. Puppies are sometimes born with slightly misaligned jaws for example, which may not matter to someone who has no intention of breeding from the puppy or working him, but such a defect should not be concealed from the buyer. Umbilical hernias are not uncommon and can be troublesome. When you go to view a litter of pups it is really important to take someone with experience with you. This is especially important if the breeder is unknown to you and does not come recommended by anyone. Arrange to visit your vet within a day or two of bringing the pup home, and try not to form an attachment until he has been given a clean bill of health. If you have any doubts about the health of the puppy or the litter in general, ask for time to think. This dog will be with you for the next 12 years or more. You will become deeply attached to him or her and serious health problems can be cripplingly expensive to fix. Not to mention very distressing for you both. This needs to be the right decision for you and your family. Whilst health problems in puppies can be devastating the majority of puppies are robust and healthy and providing you take the precautions outlined above, you are unlikely to have any problems. More information on puppies Check out our Labrador Puppies section for more help and advice on choosing your new friend. Published in April , the Happy Puppy Handbook covers every aspect of life with a small puppy. It will help you prepare your home for the new arrival, and get your puppy off to a great start with potty training, socialization and early obedience. This article was first published on 21st November , and was updated to include new information in March .Readers Also Liked. I am new to this forum so should introduce myself. As you can imagine its left an uneasy quietness to the house so we are looking for her successor In our home its my wife, myself and our 8 yr old daughter and 6 yr old son. He says he breeds only for good disposition only as any good breeder should and our quick meeting with parents it looked to be accurate. The dad was in a large outdoor kennel and looked to be very friendly. She did a quick snarl when we first got near which I have to give a pass as i'm sure she's just being protective, right? After the breeder told her its OK she calmed right down. Anyways, there are 4 females that we get first pick of when we go back. Of course training and exercise play a huge role in this so that we'll have covered. Does it still hold true that when you are looking at the liter to see which ones come to you and let you hold them on their back and settle after a short period to determine good nature rather than overly squirmy? Such a big decision i just wanted to make sure we do this right. We were so spoiled with our last pup its hard to compare! Selecting Your Labrador Retriever Puppy Selecting your puppy Try to restrain your emotions when you are selecting our pup. Remember that the breeder has been with the pup from day 1 to selection day at 5 weeks. At Pawlinglabs, we will ask you to forward a list of the characteristics that your are hoping for, prior to selection. When you come to select, we will ask you to observe the litter before entering and handling the pups. Labrador pups are very cute and cuddly, but when it comes time to select the right one for you there is plenty to consider. Carefully observe Labrador Retriever puppies before buying them, ensuring that the pup you select looks healthy and is to breed standard. There are some basic points to note about Labrador Retriever standards. The coat of a Labrador is their most distinctive feature. Labs have two coats, the water resistant undercoat which is unseen, and the top coat which is dense, straight and short. There is might be a slight wave in their coat, however the coat should feel rough to the touch. Labrador puppies come in three different coat colors: yellow light cream to red fox , chocolate liver and black. There must not be any other colours in the coat. Labs have a broad skull and a well defined stop. Their head is quite large but the features on the head, such as the ears, look proportioned. The ears of a Labrador should be set far back from the face. The inside skin of the ears should be a pale pink and soft without any scabs or discoloration. There shouldn't be any odour coming from them. The eyes of a Lab pup are round, either deep brown or hazel with black rims. The eyes should be friendly and express intelligence. The Labrador Retriever has a wide black and well developed nose with distinguished nostrils. The nose should be clean and without discharge. Be aware that a wet nose is not an indication that the Lab is healthy, nor does a dry nose indicate he is unwell. The teeth should be set square to the jaws with the top teeth slightly overlapping the bottom. Labrador puppies have fewer teeth than adults and they will lose their baby teeth as their adult teeth grow in. Labs have a well developed and strong chest. It has good depth and width. Their barreled ribs are well sprung and their back is level. Their loins are wide and strong. The skin of a Lab should be without scabs or bumps. It is normal for Labrador puppies to have extra skin at the back of their neck; this is how their mother picks them up. The skin color of a lab is usually pale pink but it can also be brown or even spotted. The tail of a Labrador is thick at the base and tapers towards the tip. The tail is a moderate length and has no feathering. It is as smooth like the rest of the coat with a rounded appearance. The tails is even with the back or slightly upwards. It should never be carried over the back or hang down. Labrador have long and sloping shoulders that connect to the strong front legs. The hind legs are developed well and have a turned stifle. Both the front and hind legs should be straight. The feet of Labrador pups are compact and perfectly round. Their toes are arched and pads well developed. Feet should be straight, not turned inwards or outwards. The gait of a Labrador should be carefree. Labs take long strides and walk straight. Observe your puppies as he walk. Make sure it is not favoring any leg or paw. This can be a sign of a current or future health issue. Pawling Chocolate and Black Labradors. That is why it is especially important that you spend some time upfront preparing for this journey. But if you are serious about hunting and want an exceptional retriever to become your hunting partner for the next years, I recommend you put a little more effort into it. If you are not sure where to start, this post will show you how to find and pick a hunting puppy from a litter. Finding the perfect pup Finding the perfect hunting dog puppy starts way before you find yourself staring into the eyes of a precious little retriever puppy. In fact, I would recommend you stay away from puppies until you have located an acceptable litter. When we purchase puppies for clients, we start our search on the computer. We buy all our puppies based on the litter, on the genetic and proven performance of the mom and dad. If you find a great litter, you have already stacked the odds so much in your favor that any puppy from that litter is probably going to serve you well. What should I look for in a gundog puppy? Start by researching litters. You want to find a litter that is worth your time, money and energy. You want to stack the odds in your favor, and you do that by finding a great litter of puppies. Remember, you should not focus on one individual puppy at this point. Instead, dig deep into possible litters that would meet your criteria for a great hunting dog. You will need to determine your own list of criteria, but here are a few things we look for when purchasing a puppy. Focus on proven performance The first thing we look for is a pedigree that shows proven performance. This can be seen by titles on the pedigree. Here is a listing of retriever titles that would signify the parents have titled in Hunt Tests or Field Trials and proven their ability as a working dog. Some of the titles you do not want to see on a pedigree, if you are looking for a hunting dog are CCH or other show dog titles. Show dogs are breed for looks, not for hunting or competition ability. These dogs generally are not going to be great hunting dogs. Also, it is true that a dog does not have to compete in tests to be a great hunting dog. I would want some confirmation to back up any claims. Mom and dad are most important Often you will see a pedigree where the mom or dad do not have any performance titles, but the grandparents or great grandparents do. As you go back further, those numbers dwindle quickly. So, if possible, you want mom and dad to be proven. Want to learn more about how to read a pedigree? Watch for our future post. If looks are important to you, you will need to decide what is more important, how the dog looks or how the dog hunts or competes. You may be able to find a puppy that looks just like you want and that puppy may also turn out to be an incredible hunter, but realize that looks and hunting ability do not always go together. For instance, if you like the large, blocky looks of a British bred lab, but want to hunt upland birds, these two things may not be compatible. The dog may simply not have the endurance needed to do hours of hunting necessary for upland hunting. You should consider your wants and needs before committing to a litter of puppies. Where to look for the litters If you are looking for a hunting retriever puppy, you will want to focus your research. You are not looking for a litter of Labradors that happened by accident. Instead focus your search to sites like retrievertraining. These will not be cheap puppies. But if you spend the money on the front end, by purchasing a great pup from a litter of proven parents, you will rarely find yourself with a dog that will not hunt. Again, you should be trying to stack the odds in your favor. Find a reputable breeder Once you find some litters that have proven parents, then turn your research to the breeder. Not all breeders are equal. Trust me! Some do a wonderful job with the puppies, have clean, hygiene spaces for the dogs and socialize the pups from day one. It may not seem important. I mean, the puppies are only with the breeder for weeks, so what difference does it make? In our experience, a lot. Clean puppy beds and areas help teach your puppy to be clean. And socialization is key! Learn more about socialization in this post. What does the breeder do to socialize the pups? Pups start learning about the world on day one. They need to be exposed to noises and new situations daily. This can go a long way toward teaching the pup to handle new situations, something particularly important in hunting dogs. Take some time to learn about the breeders. Ask them why they breed, what are their goals for their puppies and what they do to prepare the puppies for their new homes. We talk about this more in How to find a good Labrador puppy. Has there been any genetic issues that could be passed down to the puppies? Ask lots of questions. Find out as much as you can about the parents. What tests have been done to ensure the parents are healthy? Have their hips, eyes and elbows been checked? Most reputable breeders offer a 24 — month health guarantee on the puppy. This is important to protect you in case there is a genetic condition that becomes clear during that time. How do you pick a puppy from a hunting litter? Once you have found a litter that meets all your criteria and seems to be a good match for your needs, then and only then do you put a deposit down on a puppy. As you can tell, picking the right litter is the most important part of this entire process. Once you have done that, you have stacked the odds in your favor of getting a great pup. Even if you have last pick, you are still miles ahead of people that buy a puppy on a whim or put no research into it. Never go look at a litter of puppies that do not meet your criteria discussed above. Puppies are too cute, and it is hard to resist not bringing one home. So never put yourself in that position. Picking the perfect puppy for you Once you have the litter locked in and your deposit sent, you simply must wait until the pups are old enough to come home. At around weeks, you will go to the breeder and view the puppies to make your pick, if you have that option. Some breeders will send you videos of the litter each week so you can see the puppies grow and learn. This is a nice service that helps keep you connected to the litter and your puppy. What should I look for when picking a puppy from a litter? If you have a pick from one or more puppies, here are some things you can do to help you decide which puppy will be the best one for you. Take some time to observe the puppies in the litter. Watch for how active or sleepy the pups are. This may not mean much. Keep in mind that you do not know if the puppy that is sleeping was very active a few minutes ago. Is one easily spooked or seem shy? Is one bold and curious? Do any of them seem to prefer people to the other pups or vice versa? We personally look for a puppy that likes people and is bold and curious. We generally do not want pups that are easily spooked or are only interested in playing with the other puppies. But that is just our preference. We also look at size. We prefer a middle of the road size, not the largest and not the smallest. We also want a pup that will give us good eye contact. If the breeder you chose is doing a good job, your pups will already be started on the path to being well-socialized. This is important and the next few weeks with you will be even more important. Learn more in this post. Ask your breeder for help picking If you are having problems deciding, consider asking the breeder to help you pick. Most breeders have a good sense of the puppies and which ones will make a good hunting or competition dogs. Final thoughts on How to pick a hunting dog from a litter While it might seem daunting to pick a puppy from a litter, if you have done research and found a litter with a proven mom and dad, there is little to fear. By the time you go pick your puppy, you have already made all the hard decisions and stacked the odds in your favor. So, just relax. Watch the puppies and pick one that you feel good about. Learn what to do next in Raising a Lab puppy to be a duck or gun dog. You can email me ottertailkennels gmail. I would be happy to discuss your goals for your retriever and tell you about the programs I offer. Until next time happy retrieving. How to pick a hunting puppy from a litter? No doubt, selection of the right pup to meet one's particular expectations is extremely important. Making a correct choice can improve the odds of producing an excellent retriever with the least amount of frustration and perhaps even avoid disappointment. The first and most important point to consider is that one must approach puppy acquisition as a genetic selection process rather than trying to utilize methods to select a promising prospect from a particular litter. Focus not so much on picking a pup, rather pick litters. The way to pick potentially successful liters is to pick a breeder who has proven brood stock and a credible reputation for producing healthy pups genetically predisposed to perform in a manner you desire. Carefully consider your expectations for your future gundog. What are the desirable traits? What will the dog's primary functions include? What breeds interest you and why? Once you decide on a breed and the desired traits are defined based upon your intended uses, then seek a reputable breeder who has experience producing pups which exemplify the traits that best suit your purposes. Genes determine the reaction of the dog to its environment, as well as, confirmation and soundness. Genes are the building blocks of heredity and are passed from parents to offspring in a predictable manner. The topic of genetics can quickly progress into a lengthy discussion unsuitable for this article but one can count on knowing this-like begets like. Total outcrosses, matings of unrelated genetics, may produce the occasionally exceptional offspring, but this is an unpredictable undertaking. The only way to gain predictability of traits is to seek an experienced breeder with proven bloodlines which produce successful progeny. This will usually involve some form of line breeding. The mating of similar genetic relationships line breeding is conducted to intensify qualities within the line and to improve upon the predictable traits within litters. Line breeding is successfully practiced in all forms of livestock. Line breeding itself produces nothing, good or bad, it merely intensifies what is genetically there in the bloodline. Most professional breeders use some form of line breeding as soon as they find a successful combination. In other words, outcrosses, random matings, despite the parents' apparent abilities and or titles, will not assure that the traits of the parents will be passed to the offspring. Only line breeding can offer this possibility. Consider, too, there is often as much difference between litter mates in ability, temperament, and tractability as one might find between separate litters within a breed. The chance factor remains, but the odds improve if the buyer: 1. Buys from established, reputable breeders who know their business. Buys pups from breeders who specialize in producing the type retriever they desire. Buys pups produced by excellent gundog parents who have produced proven progeny from previous matings. Select litters with strong mother lines. Dams should be trained hunting dogs and she should possess the qualities you desire in your dog, not just in the sire. Dams project more influence on the litter than the sire. Good bitches are seldom mated to poor dogs, yet the opposite frequently occurs. A poor bitch is unlikely to produce good pups despite the virtues of the sire. Look closely for desirable traits and strength in the trailing bottom line of the pedigree That is the dam, granddam, great granddam, etc. Excellent mothers are important. Don't pick litters based solely on the number of titles in the pedigree. These are impressive achievements to be sure, but they are not indicators of natural tractability, temperament, and gamefinding ability. Nor do titles indicate whether the traits may be passed successfully to the offspring. Evaluate parents of pups based upon gundog standards important to your needs and their demonstrated ability to produce good pups. Seek out sires, dams and grandparents that project strong genetic traits that can be passed through to their offspring. Research has indicated grandsires and granddams prove to have more genetic influence upon the litter than the sire and dam. Genetics can influence natural gifts, such as: calm temperament. Normally Lab puppies travel well, find more on this here. For many people it can be stressful not knowing how to pick or why you should pick any specific puppy. We will try to clear things up here so that you have a few criteria to select with. For the most part, the genetics of the purebred Lab puppies in the litter are set once the parents mate. When we choose to keep parents to breed we are choosing the best specimens and mating them with the hope that we are going to be creating even better puppies through the combination of their genes. Improving on weak areas with each litter is what professional breeding is all about. Now that you understand the genetic potential is set, you will work within your litter to try to narrow down the puppy who goes home with you. Keep in mind, that all of the puppies in the litter are of high quality. So, standing over the puppy box containing the puppies have a look without saying anything or doing anything. The puppies will either have different colored collars or different colored ribbons on them to identify them. Each different color corresponds to a unique microchip number implanted in that puppy. What are you looking for? Well, observe which puppies are the most active and the least active. Observe which puppy is bossy and more of a leader, and, which is more of a follower. Are there any outgoing puppies? Are there any shy ones? Please understand that puppies and all dogs for that matter will feed off of the energy of the animals and the humans around them. So, if you bring your children and they are full of energy, talking loudly, excited, etc… then the puppies will pick up on that and imitate their behavior to an extent. We love to see the kids! The vet bills, training, the poop cleaning, nail clipping, taking out to go pee at 6 am, trips to the vet, and so on are yours. All yours! So unless you feel your children have better skills to choose the puppy than you, try to leave them out of it. You want to use the criteria here to select the lab puppy that fits your family the closest. Ok, there are a couple of things I need to say first. On your pick up day and depending on how many puppies are in the litter, your puppies may be sleeping. The good news to this issue is that there will not be a bad puppy in the litter. As professional Labrador Retriever Breeders our primary goal is to create better Labrador Retriever puppies with each litter we produce. Depending on what the issue was with the puppy we would care for them or home them with a person who fully understood any issue present and was willing to care for them. Getting back to selecting your puppy. As you watch over the litter try to narrow it down to two puppies you are interested in and watch them. Look for any excitement, playfulness, shyness, active or lying around, or differences in color, size, or other physical attributes such as tail size, ear size, forehead and snout size, etc…. This means that these dogs are super smart, even tempered, loving and willing to please all because of the Labrador Retriever breed and the selections we make in our breeding program. Training is key to having a well behaved Purebred Lab Retriever puppy. On the day you pick up your puppy it will be normal for the puppies to be on the shy side. Though they have been socialized by 5 or 6 of us they get use to us. So the new sights, smells, sounds etc… that you bring will all be a brand new thing for them. At 8 weeks old they are unsure if these new stimuli are safe and they may be cautious coming to you. Again, all normal. On the other hand, a puppy who comes right up to you with no apprehension may be the one you want. Especially if you are a hunter and you need your dog to work to retrieve game. You should also know that if a puppy runs from its pack to see you it is not choosing you! It could be the more dominant or most curious puppy and it would approach anyone coming to see the litter not just you. Can we pick your lab puppy? Sure we can! The latest research we have read on the topic indicates that how a puppy behaves at 8 weeks old when with its litter has no bearing on the puppy it becomes after you train it properly. This means that for most people the training and socialization you provide is much more important than which puppy you choose. We always suggest picking the most easily trainable puppy and we will be happy to do this for you. For the best explanation on setting yourself up properly to lead your puppy to becoming a well behaved dog, please sign up for the www. A generous discount is available for our clients to help you understand how to use positive reinforcement to train your puppy. So we are happy to offer advice and can absolutely choose your puppy in the event you cannot make it, but doing so on your own would be the best scenario. Another method we frown on is the breeder evaluating a puppy with a tool to grade their personality and then comparing that to a marking tool that you complete to grade yourself. Remember when I said puppies respond differently to different people? Well they have basic emotions similar to that of a two year old. If you are not in the room, and I am evaluating the puppy remember my experience with puppies and your lack of , then how can a score sheet be used to match the two of you together effectively? You need to see the puppy behave with you. So you have it narrowed down to two puppies, compare similar personality traits and physical features as I mentioned earlier. Toss in the fact that they have medium energy and poof! Please understand what you see the puppies doing on pick up day are not how they are going to act for the rest of their lives. Puppies are not born with any knowledge of these things and rather need to be trained to understand your boundaries. For this reason we have focused on breeding smarter puppies generation after generation. At least you have some guidelines to use when you arrive. For example, the largest puppy is not necessarily going to be the biggest one when full grown. At 8 weeks old the biggest puppy has been the one who is the pushiest at the food bowl and eats the most at feedings. This is why 8 weeks is the best time for your Lab puppy to go to bond with their human family. As some puppies get larger in size they can push the other smaller puppies around so size then becomes another factor in the development of your puppy. Take your puppy home at 8 weeks old and you have provided them time with their litter to learn puppy to puppy manners weeks 4 to 8 and you have eliminated the possibility of them being bullied by the larger pups after week 8. The larger pups also will not learn to become overly dominant because there are not smaller ones around them to boss around. What about people who want the runt? The first group feel that because the runt is smaller they will listen better when truly listening is a skill learned through training. And the second group feel that a smaller puppy is sick and weak and will not thrive. Again this is not the case as smaller puppies simply do not have as strong of a food drive than their siblings. The larger issue surrounding the runt is this. Professional Lab Retriever Breeders breed for consistency. It is this consistency in our breeding program that ensures the first picked puppy is of the same high quality as the last picked. So before you arrive to choose your Purebred Lab Puppy, have a couple behavioral qualities in mind and a couple physical qualities. Observe quietly and try not to bring too many people with you so that the puppies only pick up your energy and not the energy of the group. This is the best way to truly observe how the puppy will react to you alone. Narrow it down to a couple and compare them together measuring them against your list of traits. If you make a choice to not train you have to be ready to deal with whatever your Lab decided to become. And one final note. Some people have heard to wipe a blanket where the puppy sleeps or on the mother because the scent will calm the puppy in your home. Think of it this way, if your puppy smells the mother or one of its littermates what does it do next? So a blanket with this scent on it will cue your puppy to look for someone who is likely not coming back. Imagine the frustration of a puppy newly separated from its litter being able to smell them but not find them. We suggest you do not do this to your puppy. Our suggestion to help settle the puppy only if you need to is to put a t shirt into the crate with the scent of the person who they bonded the most to. This is their new pack. Get them accustom to their new pack and the quicker they forget their old pack the easier it will be for them. Love them, set clear guidelines, and enjoy them for years to come. Chocolate Lab with pumpkin.

Unlocking the Benefits of a Pedigree Frenchie! Bulldogs Difficulty to Breath A bulldogs scrunched face and nasal structure can make it difficult for them to breath, which in turn can make them tire easily. Anytime air flow is blocked or impeded will increase how quickly a body will tire. To improve airflow and oxygen intake, specialized pet surgeons can do work to clear up their nasal passage. This decision is very personal and should be made with the support of your current veterinarian to determine the pros and cons for your bulldog if surgery is or is not performed. Bulldogs Dietary Needs A bulldog will eat just about anything you give it. Bulldogs love food and will be more than willing to eat any leftovers or under the table scraps. However, if a bulldog is not fed a nutritious diet centered on their specific health needs, it will lead to obesity and increased laziness. A bulldog truly is what they eat. Be mindful of your bulldogs diet. Seek guidance from your veterinarian on what is best for your pet. When the best nutrition is provided to a bulldog it will improve food digestion and convert food into good energy. More energy equals a less lazy bulldog. On a side note… an occasional treat is perfectly fine. Everyone deserves a cheat day. Bulldogs Love Interaction and Playtime A bulldog wants to play and enjoy one-on-one time with their owners. They can be goofy and playful. It is up to the owner to build this up or not. By taking time to play with your bulldog, indoors or outdoors, this will translate in a more active pet. Your bulldog can have all the fun in the world within established boundaries! Bulldogs Overheat Easily Bulldogs thick bodies and wrinkles can overheat easily. A good rule of thumb is to be weary of taking your bulldog outside if the weather exceeds 80 degrees. Taking your bulldog outside in anything hotter than this for prolonged activity can be extremely dangerous. In place of heading outdoors during the hottest time of the day plan to go for a walk early morning or later in the evening when temperatures have cooled. If there is a massive heat wave take additional time to play indoors at home or seek a pet friendly, air-conditioned facility. Good examples are Home Depot or Lowes. These retailers welcome the DIY or homebuilders pets, regardless if they are a service animal. And no this is not a paid advertisement. I Just happen to frequent both locations often and know their rules. Bulldogs are Not Lazy, Just Intelligent and Purposeful Another factor of that contradicts the thought question of bulldogs being lazy deals with the intelligence of a bulldog. Bulldogs are actually quite smart and purposeful in their thinking. Their energy may be spent quickly which is why Bulldogs seek reason for the decisions that are made. Bulldogs want to wisely choose how their energy is spent. These lovable fur animals are just as excited to do something fun when given reason and will go all in when that purpose is made clear. Bulldogs can be bullheaded when they are not properly convinced though. They are strong willed and stubborn. If a bulldog decides not to do something, that is final until you convince them otherwise. For this reason alone it is important to provide guidance early on in their adolescence and the right type of structure. A structured lifestyle helps these intelligent animals to understand the reasoning behind the set expectations and planned activities. This understanding translates to an increased willingness to participate in activities because these behaviors have been trained through the early stages of their lives. This routine will support a more active and fun filled lifestyle for your bulldog. There will always be obstacles that can hold a bulldog back or influence a lazy environment. Do not hesitate in doing this. Help your pup while it is still young. Do not delay in providing formal training. The older your bulldog, the more stubborn it will become in learning new things. If in the off chance you have an older bulldog that needs to be trained prepare for a lot of work and a great deal of patience. With any bulldog, some recommendations on what to train first are: Potty training. English Bulldogs are often thought to be lazy because they are so easy going. On the AKC energy scale of couch potato to high energy, English Bulldogs typically fall in the middle of the scale. You see, these dogs love to play and are quite social, but can tire quickly. It only takes about 15 minutes of activity before they want to rest up before their next play session. Thankfully, their energy levels complement their temperament. These descriptors would lead you to believe that they are lazy dogs. However, other descriptions of their personality include: fun loving, energetic, playful, and social. English Bulldogs are also known to be stubborn. This is in part because Bulldogs are incredibly intelligent dogs. They are very smart and know how to get what they want. Thankfully they are easy to train because they are highly motivated by food. Some Bulldogs have even been trained how to skateboard and surf. How can that be lazy? Well, part of the myth that English Bulldogs are lazy may be due in part to the fact that Bulldogs have low levels of endurance. The way these dogs were bred has created a number of health problems that lead to fatigue at a quicker rate when compared to other dogs of a similar size. There are many common health problems that can lead an English Bulldog to get tired quickly. Another characteristic of the English Bulldog breed is its short nose. Believe it or not, this feature can have an effect on its activity level, too. Brachycephalic Breeds and Heat Sensitivity Dogs with large heads and short snouts are called brachycephalic breeds. Dogs that belong to a brachycephalic breed are at a higher risk of having respiratory problems. In some cases there are dogs who benefit from surgery to correct brachycephalic obstructive airway syndrome BOAS. If they start panting heavily they need to be calmed down and take some time to rest. If you live in a warmer climate or the weather is abnormally warmer than usual, your Bulldog may appear to be lazier than normal; however, you should keep an eye out to make sure they are not overheating. Overheating can be life threatening to an English Bulldog and brachycephalic breeds are more prone to overheat on walks. The reason they are so sensitive to heat is because they are unable to cool themselves off as easily and effectively as non-brachycephalic dogs. If you believe that your English Bulldog is overheating you should help them cool down and get some rest before resuming any activities. This does not mean the dog is being lazy, it means they need to cool down and calm down. Joint Problems Unfortunately, English Bulldogs are predisposed to a variety of joint problems. They may experience one or a combination of the following joint problems: hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, or arthritis. If a dog is experiencing any one or more of these joint problems they may be lounging around not because they are lazy, but because they are trying to avoid painful movements. Hip and Elbow Dysplasia Hip or elbow dysplasia is the deterioration of the joint over time that causes the loss of joint function. If a dog has been diagnosed with dysplasia in their hip or elbow, then moving around at higher levels of enthusiasm could cause them to be in pain. Thankfully there are a few options that owners have to help a dog resume their normal activities and avoid any lazy tendencies. Veterinarians often recommend one or more of the following treatments to help dogs with hip or elbow dysplasia: Weightloss — to decrease the amount of stress on the joint Supplements or anti-inflammatory medication — to support joint health Hard surface restriction — to decrease discomfort Physical therapy — to support healthy activity Arthritis Another joint problem that could make any dog seem lazy is arthritis. While not exclusive to Bulldogs, arthritis occurs when the cartilage in a joint becomes damaged from age or injury and bones rub each other in the joint. Veterinarians will typically suggest one or more of the following treatments to help dogs with arthritis: Supplements or anti-inflammatory medication — to support joint health Pain medication — for the management of pain Physical therapy — to support healthy activity Obesity English Bulldogs love to eat and, if left to their own devices, may not get enough exercise. When put together these two characteristics could lead an English Bulldog to develop obesity. The more overweight a Bulldog is, the more they will want to lounge around and avoid activities that cause them to be physically active. To help an overweight or obese Bulldog, veterinarians generally suggest a combination diet and increased activity to promote weight loss. Reasons why a dog might have sudden onset laziness include infection, illness, or internal blockage, just to name a few. If you believe that your dog is exhibiting laziness that is not in relation to being recently active and is also out of character, seeking help from a veterinarian is suggested. A veterinarian will be able to examine the dog and suggest potential tests to run to ensure the dog is not in any danger. You might be surprised at how many hours of sleep an English Bulldog has to have. The amount of rest that each English Bulldog needs can vary from dog to dog. Generally speaking, the average English Bulldog needs anywhere from 12 to 14 hours of sleep per day. That much sleep can make anyone think a dog is lazy and other breeds, like Great Danes, can have the same problem. Like most dogs, English Bulldogs will typically break their hours of sleep up into several short naps and one long stretch of sleep overnight. When English Bulldogs are more active, they will need more rest, too. This helps them to be sure that they will not overheat and do not overexert themselves. Just like active dogs, English Bulldogs get the zoomies and run off excess energy, too. One quick internet search may leave you confused on just how much exercise an English Bulldog truly needs each day. This means that they should exercise for at least 30 minutes per day. Getting in a full 30 minutes may be too much at one time for an English Bulldog. Many dog trainers suggest that English Bulldogs start out with short training and exercise intervals. This allows the dog to rest between sessions and stay safe at the same time. English Bulldogs should not exercise when it is hot outside. The increase in activity level combined with the heat can cause serious health problems. If you suspect that your dog has been active for too long it is important to calm them down. How to Prevent Bulldog Laziness There is no reason to believe that your English Bulldog has to be a couch potato for its entire life. Simply teach your Bulldog not to be lazy. You can do this by creating a routing, training them, feeding them a proper diet, and ensuring they stay hydrated. Create a Routine While English Bulldogs do not require a highly structured routine, they will benefit from some sort of reliable schedule. One way to help prevent laziness is to create a routine that your Bulldog expects. Some things that you may want to do the same every day are: Feeding your dog at the same time Playing the same indoor game Having one place to sleep at nighttime Keeping toys in the same place Following a potty routine When your dog knows what they should expect at a given time they are more likely to be active around that time. Training English Bulldogs can be trained to do some pretty cool things. You may think that because English Bulldogs are short and fat that they are lazy, but would a lazy dog compete in an agility competition like Rudy the English Bulldog? Get creative with what you want to teach your Bulldog. You will help encourage them to be active by continuing to train them. Just make sure that if you are using treats to promote their training that you are not over feeding them. English Bulldogs will overeat when given the chance, so owners need to be sure to feed their Bulldog a proper diet. The right nutrition and correct amount of food will help to ensure that the dog does not suffer complications due to being overweight or obese. Proper Hydration In addition to a proper diet, English Bulldogs need to stay hydrated, too. Help Your Bulldog Stay Active Not only can you do things that help prevent your English Bulldog from becoming lazy, there are things that you can do to help your Bulldog stay active. Break Up Active Times Throughout the Day One of the best ways to promote activeness in your English Bulldog is to have multiple times where your dog is active throughout the day. By having several short active times your Bulldog will learn how to have fun and play. Introduce a Playmate Like humans, dogs are social creatures. English Bulldogs are friendly dogs that enjoy social interaction. They are known for how great they are with children and most Bulldogs enjoy the companionship of another dog. Having multiple dogs can be beneficial because they can entertain each other when you are busy. Dog parks and doggie daycares are great ways to promote social activity with your dog. Activity can be as easy as playing a game with them. Teach them how to play games like tug or hide and seek. Not only are these games fun and healthy for the dog, but it will also promote bonding and can help teach other skills. For example, when playing tug with your dog you can also teach them how to drop the toy when given a command. Offer Activity Toys There will be times when you want your English Bulldog to be active, but you are pressed for time. One way to promote activity in your dog is to offer them an activity toy. Activity toys for dogs can not only promote a dog to be active, but they can prevent boredom, too. Their easy going personalities combined with how quickly they tire during activity only perpetuates this common misconception. Bulldogs are intelligent, love to play, and are food motivated. They can be quite active dogs so long as they are healthy and stay out of the heat. Help keep your bulldog active by training them, playing games, and keeping a routine. We go to great lengths to help users better understand their pets; however, the content on this blog is not a substitute for veterinary guidance. Additionally, NotABully.

Some dogs like Labradors have two layers of fur, which makes them ideal dogs for hunting waterfowl since they have an additional layer of hair to insulate them from water. Other dogs like poodles have a single layer of hair. Because their coat is dense and wiry, it does a great job of protecting them from cold temperatures. Puppies spend most of their time snuggling with their mother or with their littermates. As a result, they have little need for a dense and wiry coat. Puppies typically have hair that is soft and less dense than what you would find on an adult dog. In the case of poodles, puppies are usually born with hair that is soft and straight. As your puppy gets older, their hair will start becoming wavy or curly at the base. Your poodle will shed during the first few months of her life. Poodles are hypoallergenic dogs because they do very little shedding as adults, which means they release less pet dander than other dogs. However, poodle puppies have fast hair growth cycles. Old hair has to fall out to make room for new growth, resulting in shedding. Most dogs shed their puppy coat to make room for their adult coat around four to six months of age. However, poodle puppies tend to blow their coat later: Standard poodles usually lose their puppy coat around nine to 16 months of age. Miniature and toy poodles tend to shed their puppy coat earlier at nine months. This process is also longer than for other breeds. It can take up to three months for a Standard poodle to fully lose her puppy coat and grow her adult hair. Miniature and toy poodles can shed for as long as nine months before their adult coat comes in. Note that shedding can vary a lot from one individual to another. If you got your poodle from a breeder, ask when the parents lost their puppy coat and how much shedding they did. Can Poodles at cats be taught to get along? You will typically see hair accumulate where your puppy sleeps, or even find hair clinging to your hands and clothes after petting your pooch. The adult coat that grows will look very different. It should have a wiry or wooly texture and be denser than the puppy coat. A Black Poodle at the beach How to Manage Shedding There are a few things you can do to help your puppy shed her coat faster and prevent hair from accumulating in your home. Brushing Brushing is important. Plus, it stimulates circulation, which will help your pooch grow new hair. You should be able to remove most of the dead hair with a comb or slicker brush, but you might need a de-shedding tool if your puppy is losing a lot of hair. You should brush your puppy daily once she starts blowing her puppy coat. Bathing Bathe your pooch regularly. Warm water will open follicles and help your puppy shed old hair faster. You can use a de-shedding shampoo. These shampoos contain hydrating ingredients that support a healthy hair growth cycle. Diet A healthy diet and water intake are also important. You should feed a diet that is rich in vitamins and minerals to support a healthy skin and coat. As poodle owners know, regular grooming is an important part of taking care of your furry companion. Poodles have long hair that can become dirty and matted. Trimming this hair helps keep it clean. It also helps your poodle regulate her body temperature , especially if you live in a warm area. Most poodle owners schedule their first grooming appointment between 11 and 16 weeks. During her first trim, your poodle will not need to have a lot of hair removed. The groomer will probably focus on hair that could get in her eyes, trim the coat around the genitals since it can become dirty, and get your puppy used to having her nails trimmed. When your poodle starts blowing her puppy coat, you can take her to the groomer again for a warm bath and de-shedding shampoo. The groomer might not need to trim a lot of hair but bathing and brushing will help with managing shedding. You should take your poodle to the groomer again once her adult coat comes in. This longer and denser coat can become dirty and matted quickly without proper grooming. Plus, this thicker and denser hair can cause your poodle to become overheated if you live in a warm area. A happy Poodle running outside on the grass Wrap Up Poodle puppies tend to blow their puppy coat later than other breeds. You should start seeing a lot of shedding around nine months of age, but it can happen later for Standard poodles. You can manage to shed with brushing and bathing. The good news is that your poodle will shed very little once she grows her adult coat, but it also means you will have to take your pooch to the groomer regularly to prevent this coat from getting too long. My wife and I love playing with our active miniature Labradoodle Max. We want all Oodle puppies to be healthy and happy, have lots of fun and be part of the family. Load More. Often, this coat will look and feel much different than the future adult coat. Many Poodle puppies have very soft, wavy hair as opposed to the adult's thick and curly coat. This process usually takes about 9 months. Therefore, when a Poodle is approximately 18 months old, they will have their full adult coat. In some cases it will be 24 months until the adult coat comes in. During this time, the coat can become very matted. Large mats tangles can ruin a coat, often needing to be clipped off if they cannot be worked out by hand. For this reason, it is important to brush the coat with a pin brush very often and thoroughly during this stage. Once this change over is complete, the coat will be easier to maintain. The above also happens with Standard Poodles, however this stage does not last quite as long. The Standard Poodle will go through a coat change starting anytime between 9 and 16 months. The changeover will last approximately 3 months. Shedding It is said that a Poodle does not shed. This can be looked at 2 ways. A Poodle does not have the plush double coat that many breeds have. Poodles have a single, dense coat of curled hair. Just like human hair, it grows and some hairs do fall out. When the hairs fall out of a Poodle's coat, they often fall back into the coat. Therefore, a Poodle does not shed in the traditional sense of canine shedding. Because the hair can contain varying amounts of dandruff and some people can have allergies to that. In addition, all dogs have allergens, these are microscopic dander elements. The Poodle, and other dog breeds such as Schnauzers shed from their skin approximately every 21 days, thus greatly reducing the amount of allergens that could trigger an allergic reaction. Note: The coat is one of the most important elements that the Poodle breed is known for.For this reason, an owner should be aware of every hair issue that affects this dog breed. Find out more about the AllPoodleInfo Book. Hair Loss with Female Poodles For the female Poodle, the coat may thin and hair loss may occur when she is in heat and also when she is whelping a litter. For many female Poodles, the coat can be affected by hormonal changes, particularly a surge in estrogen that occurs when she is in a heat cycle and after giving birth and whelping her litter. The female's coat may thin out, sometimes so severely that skin is exposed in many areas. This can happen in random areas of the body. If this does happens, it can take up to 4 months for the Poodle's hair to grow back to normal. Unfortunately, by that time the dog will be almost ready to enter another heat cycle. Therefore, if you are not planning on breeding your Poodle and she suffers from hormonal hair loss, it is best to have her spayed. Among them are: Red Mange when your Poodle has an allergic reaction to microscopic mites that live on all dogs, this causes patches of hair loss Allergies from commercial dog food additives, dog shampoo and everything in between - intense itching can cause a dog to scratch so severely that hair is lost and scabs form Sebaceous Adenitis - This is an inherited medical issue that causes the coat to thin out or completely fall out, that can be stopped if all breeders test for SA before breeding dogs Castration responsive Dermatosis - A hair loss in young male Poodles that begins in the groin area and can spread over the body. Hypothyroidism - This causes the coat to become excessively thick and have an abnormal texture When Hair Does Not Grow Back When a Poodle has health issues which causes the hair to fall out or to thin; there is always a chance that the coat will not grow back as expected. This is called post loss alopecia. Studies are currently being done to understand this further. However, as of now, it is thought that there are certain changes that take place in the dog's skin because of the temperature changes that occur when the fur is gone or very thin. When this happens, it can take up to 24 months for the Poodle's coat to grow back. There have been some promising results in using Melatonin to help stimulate the hair follicles. We have a detailed section regarding the best shampoo for Poodles. Conditioners- The Poodle should have a coat conditioner applied to keep the hair soft, moist and tangle free. High quality brands will have anti-static compounds to keep hairs on the dog from becoming fly-a-ways and will contain mink oil which adds a gloss or luster to deepen and enrich the natural coat color. It is best to choose a brand that also contain PABA ultraviolet sunscreen to protect the Poodle from excessive ultraviolet radiation when your dog is outside. These conditioners contain protein to help rebuild and restructure the coat by bonding to the shaft of each individual hair. They help to add body to thin coats and improve its appearance and manageability. They also help to repel dirt that would otherwise stick to the coat and many do contain the needed ultraviolet sunscreen. With grooming, finishing spray is used during brushing and combing when no oil is desired on the Poodle's coat. You may also wish to see: Apricot Poodles - One of the most beautiful colors of this breed. Phantom Poodles - Photos and explanation regarding this gorgeous type of coat. Black Poodles - Solid black coats are a popular choice for owners when searching for a pup. All rights reserved. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon. Share Us. Brushing the head of a Poodle using a slicker brush The significant difference between the puppy and adult Poodle coats is their textures. Puppy hair is always softer. The adult Poodle coat is curly and coarser than the puppy coat. When your Poodle is a puppy, his coat will be wavy rather than curly. Ready to Adopt Puppyspot Poodle Adoption 5. They have placed over , puppies into homes in the US! Hair has a much longer growth cycle than fur, meaning it can grow long. The Puppy Coat Shedding Process A happy cream Poodle enjoying a field of grass in Spring The Poodle puppy coat shedding process may last between three months and nine months. Toy and Miniature Poodles usually take longer to shed their puppy coats, and Standard Poodles get it done more quickly. There seems to be a genetic component. In other words, your pet may follow the same pattern as his parents. Just continue doing correct grooming and keep your dog healthy. How to Manage the Mess Brushing your dog every day is the best way to cut down on the amount of hair that will end up all over your furniture. Try covering your furniture with throws and invest in a good vacuum. Once the process is over, your pet will have the adult Poodle coat that is famously good for people with allergies. A larger standard size Poodle. Grooming is more important than ever after the puppy coat sheds and the adult coat starts growing in. As the adult coat grows in, your dog will be especially prone to matting. Brush your dog every day to prevent this matting from developing. Use a brush with pin bristles on your Poodle daily during this period. What Is Matting? Coat matting is extreme tangling. Active and sometimes hyper dogs like Poodles with single coats are prone to matting. Never risk hurting your dog by trying to tackle serious matting with a brush. The leading cause of matting is inadequate grooming. Why Is Matting a Problem? Using a blunt comb to groom and style a Mini brown Poodle dog Coat matting is harmful to your Poodle. It will cause severe problems if you ignore it. In addition, your dog will probably scratch and even bite at it, leading to a dangerous infection. Once cuts and lesions develop under the mats, they have trouble healing because of the moist atmosphere and debris trapped in the coat. How To Prevent Matting As I mentioned, the Poodle coat is especially likely to end up matted when the adult coat is growing in. Daily brushing with an appropriate pin bristle brush is key to preventing matting. Also, be aware that your Poodle is more likely to have this problem if it gets mud on its coat. So when you bring your dog outdoors for play, and he gets dirty, wash off the mud right away. If you have any doubts that you can get out the matting without hurting your dog, cut out the matting yourself or bring your pooch to the groomer. Pretty odd to look at! First things first: get the right kind of brush. Many experts say that slicker brushes with stiff wire, short bristles are best for Poodles. Find one that is rectangular or square in shape. Always brush thoroughly, getting down to the skin. If it is, you need a different brush. You should bathe your dog at least once every one or two months. Poodle owners usually bring their pooches to professional groomers for their trims. Shampooing a Poodle Only use a shampoo that is formulated for dogs. This depends on the severity of the matting. You may be able to take out mild matting with a high-quality dog grooming brush with pin bristles. Look for grooming tools specially designed for de-matting. If the matting is more stubborn, use a detangling spray or conditioner formulated for dogs. If you have to clip off matting, make sure you regularly groom the new hair that grows in. Are Poodle Puppies Hypoallergenic? Showing the extra soft and lovely ears of a Labradoodle dog. This wavy coat Labradoodle has either a red or apricot coat depending who you ask. Yes, adult Poodles are considered hypoallergenic. Well, as hypoallergenic as a dog can be. That is because of the shedding it will do when it loses its puppy coat. Also, keep in mind that no breed is completely hypoallergenic. However, if you notice specific other symptoms along with hair loss, your dog may have a separate underlying problem that needs veterinary attention. Worrying symptoms include:. This will be good practice for later on — for both of you! Yes, haircuts are essential for Poodles. Their thick, long, curly coats are prone to tangling and trapping debris. When will my Poodle puppy need haircuts? Then, at around four months old, they will shed their puppy coats and start to grow out their rougher adult coats. Frequency As a general rule, Poodles should have their coats clipped every weeks once their adult coats grow out, whatever your desired length. This is because they grow so quickly and can become matted just as fast! What equipment should I use? There are three main types of dog grooming scissors; straight scissors, curved scissors, and thinning shears, and they all perform slightly differently. Straight grooming scissors are a multi-task tool, they have straight blades for general, basic grooming, creating straight lines in the coat, and adding the finishing touches to haircuts. Curved dog grooming shear has a curved blade that can be used to fine-tune and shape specific areas of the coat, such as the paws and hindquarters. Thinning shears have a cutting edge on one blade and teeth on the other, and there are also double thinners that have teeth on both blades. They are designed to remove lots of hair in even sections for a natural finish, and they can also be used to blend out the harsh lines from clippers and texturize the coat. Or, if you just need something for the occasional touch-up between visits to the groomer, a simple pair of electrical motor clippers will do just fine. Electric motor clippers are also good for keeping short coats short. You should also be aware of the types of blades that come with clippers. The higher the number of the blade, the more hair that it will remove. Or, you can get guards that fit a single blade to customize the length, which is a lot more convenient. Start by showing them the equipment and getting them used to the sight and sound of it before you cut any hair. Reward them just for being around it and then try cutting a small section of hair. If they react well, reward them again, and then do another section. Keep rewarding them as you go and again after the haircut is finished. Do it in a well-lit, comfortable part of the home that your pup can stand up in. Once you get them into a routine — keep it up! Work your way down the legs first, then from the neck to the hindquarters, or vice versa, and then the tail. Take care with the feet, underside, and head, shielding their eyes from falling fur. Use long strokes and go from the neck down to the back legs. How to deal with grooming anxiety If your pup is afraid of the scissors or clippers, take it really slowly and try to make it an enjoyable experience. You can do this by breaking up the haircut into smaller sessions to make it less stressful and taking breaks in between each one. Give your dog lots of praise and a reward every time you take a break and ask another family member to comfort them during the haircut. You can start brushing your Poodle from any age. To brush them, simply go in the direction of hair growth using short strokes. Hold the fur at the base with your free hand to remove knots, and use a mat remover for any stubborn mats. Bathing a Poodle puppy As for bathing, you should give your Poodle pup their first proper bath at months old to help them shed their puppy coat, unless they get seriously dirty before that. However, you can give your pup a bath any time after weeks of age to get them used to the sensation, but avoid overbathing them, as this will strip the fur of its natural oils and make it dry and brittle. Once they have their adult coats, your Poodle pup will need a bath once a month. You can even buy shampoo that is designed especially for Poodle coats. To give your Poodle a bath, lather up their wet fur with the shampoo, massage it in, leave it for as long as directed on the bottle, and rinse thoroughly. Follow up with conditioner if necessary. Starting out just training her own Border Collies, she gradually expanded to local classes and seminars, now she travels as far as Europe and teaches students all over the world on how to train their dogs in a positive, bonding, game-based way. She is known for her clear, step-by-step training that lets beginners and advanced dog trainers see lasting results very quickly.

Cockapoo The original Doodle, the Cockapoo , is still a popular choice among those looking to adopt a littler dog. The loving loyalty of the Cocker Spaniel and the proud intelligence of the Poodle makes for one heck of a combo. The perfect canine companion, these gorgeous mutts fit nicely into just about every lifestyle. As one of the small Poodle mixes, moderate exercise needs, and lack of mouthiness, they even do well with apartment living. However, you will need to make plenty of time for these people-oriented pups. Maltipoo Highly sociable, clever, and cute as a button, Maltipoos are excellent for those looking for an absolutely allergy-friendly pal. They love kids, other dogs, and perfect strangers, too. That being said, these dogs can be a little on the loud side at times and will benefit from training and plenty of socialization to reduce this at times irritating behavior. Peekapoo For fans of playful pups, the Peekaboo could be the one. With a history almost as long as the beloved Cockapoo, these darling dogs, formed from regal Pekingese, make excellent lapdogs. While they will stick to their favorite person like the velcro pups they definitely are, they can also be energetic and plenty sporty, given the opportunity. One downside is that Peekapoos could end up inheriting that flat face that creates many of the health issues in their parent pups, but careful breeders are working to eliminate that problem. Pomapoo Known for their Spitz-like good looks all done up in miniature, the foxy Pomeranian passes plenty of its cuteness on to its Doodle offspring, along with that feisty, fun working-dog attitude. Great for inexperienced owners and perfect for fans of super small pups, the Pomapoo is generally a laid-back, happy kind of dog. The biggest issue with these pooches is that their companion animal nature makes them the kind of canines that suffer greatly from separation anxiety. They cannot be left alone for long periods. Schnoodle With two parent breeds that come in an assortment of sizes, the Schnoodle undoubtedly belongs on this list. Still, it can be included among the large Doodles, too, if a Standard Poodle were to be bred with a Giant Schnauzer. In terms of personality, Schnoodles are very terrier-like, which means they tend to be much more active than your average lapdog and so do especially well with outdoorsy families. Yorkipoo The Yorkshire Terrier may well give the Poodle a run for its money in the intelligence stakes making the delightful Yorkipoo a very smart dog indeed — which is great for training. Shihpoo Set your Shihpoo up on a velvet cushion, and they will adore you for life. On a serious note, though, these dogs are consummate lapdogs. As such, they love to be doted on and spoiled more than anything else in this world. With their larger-than-life personality and a tendency towards stubbornness, you might not get very far with trying to teach these dogs new tricks or making them into athletic companions. Still, their playful, funny nature will certainly earn them a firm place in your heart nevertheless. Chi-Poo Right at the smallest end of the Doodle spectrum, the Chi-Poo has all the character of the daring Chihuahua but, much to the relief of fans of the breed, far fewer of their associated health issues that come when toy breeds are made just way too toy. Chi-poos are also quite a bit more independent than most other smaller Poodle crosses, which makes them more adaptable to various home situations. They make great first-time pets and work as well in an apartment as they do in a house with a yard. That being said, they can be pretty energetic little so-and-sos, which is something you will need to keep in mind if you do decide to take on one of these lovely pups. Something else you will need to think about is that these dogs also generally require pretty regular grooming sessions. Westiepoo Westiepoos are some of the most social and loving dogs around. They are super fun, super easy to look after, super quick to train, and super to have in your home. The West Highland Terrier — Poodle mix contains the very best of both these excellent pups. They are fun, funny, active, and larger than life in their characters. That Terrier nature of theirs means Westies have a tendency towards both barking and prey-chasing behaviors. Yet, with their superior intelligence, these are things they can be trained out of. Pugapoo Pugs have recently become quite controversial for the issues they have with breathing due to those flat faces of theirs. Happily, though, when combined with the mightily different Poodle, this becomes far less of a problem. Crossing Pugs in this way with longer-nosed hounds is a way of preserving these quirky, cute, and comical dogs. Pugapoos undoubtedly make delightful pups who are loving and loyal as they are gorgeous. With very modest exercise needs, indeed, they are perfect little lapdogs. Doxiedoodle The thing about Daschhunds, one half of the darling Doxiedoodle , is that not only are they the sweetest little sausage-looking pups, but they vary massively in both appearance and temperament. What you will know for sure, though, is that they will be gorgeous, they will be smart, and they will be floofy little bundles of perky hound. Take care, though, as these dogs can grow larger than you might think. Bassetdoodle Otherwise known as Bassetoodles , Bassetdoodles are lesser-known Doodles for sure, but an interesting combination of breeds nonetheless. Like some of the other pups on this list, they are sometimes formed from Standard Poodles, making all-around larger dogs, so make sure that the breeder knows you are looking for a smaller-sized pup. These pooches tend to be calm, friendly, joyful, and yet slightly on the stubborn side too. They also often inherit a bit of a mischievous streak that keeps their owners very much on their toes. Bossi-Poo Boston Terriers are unique-looking dogs with plenty of heart to go alongside their distinctive features and markings. When coupled with the posh Poodle, you get the amusingly-named Bossi-Poo. Cavapoo Spaniels have long been dotted on dogs, and the Cavalier King Charles is no exception. With their cute faces, beautiful coats, and happy little natures, they make friends wherever they go. When the winning personality of the Spaniel is added to the smart, comedic nature of the smaller Poodle, magic truly does happen. Cavapoos really are some of the most popular Doodles around. Jack-a-Poo Another Doodle of many names, the Jack-a-poo , Jackadoodle, or Poo-Jack, is a bright and vivacious mutt who is super loving but requires a mite more care than some of the other Doods on this list. The reason for that is not their coat which tends to be short or slightly fluffy, but, either way, very manageable, but rather the fact they tend to be teeny firecrackers, filled with all the joys of life. While this makes them entertaining sidekicks, it does mean you have to have a fairly energetic nature ayourself to keep up with their antics. Aside from their distinctive features, these dogs are known for their alert, big-dog attitudes, playful personalities, bravery, and extreme love of people. For all these reasons and more, their offspring Papipoos make a unique and excellent pet choice. Poogle Admittedly not the most glamorous name in the world! A Boodle? A Beapoo? Friendly, curious, and hopelessly devoted to their families, Poogles make excellent pets for just about anyone. They get along with everyone, from kids to other pets. However, they do need plenty of socialization to counter that sometimes fairly high prey drive of theirs. With two intelligent parents, and given that these dogs are dedicated people pleasers, Corgipoos do well in the training stakes. The Corgi actually has a fascinating history. Said to be the companions of fairies, legend has it that they were first gifted, during the Viking era, to those who needed protection in their homes. So, as you can imagine, Corgipoos are great guard dogs in addition to being excellent companions. As one of the most popular and well-known of the Doodles, these tend to be the ones that many opt for. Plus, progressive generations of Goldendoodles have enabled them to be bred in more apartment-friendly sizes as small Poodle mixes. Photo used with permission. These dogs really have it all — a sociable nature, even temperament, high trainability, and gorgeous good looks. On the downside, these dogs blow coat and how! Beyond that, their large size means they need a bigger space to hang out in and more intensive exercise than smaller breeds. Enter the Mini or Toy Labradoodle… With their smaller size and tendency toward inheriting the Poodle coat, they are even more perfect than perfect. In that case, the Bernedoodle may well have caught your attention. While the Standard versions of these pups can be pretty giant, given that the Bernese Mountain Dog is classified as a large breed, smaller versions of the Bernie come from combining them with little Poodles. These have all the best of their qualities, often including their stunning tricolored coats, but in a much more manageable package size-wise. All small Poodle mixes make great dogs for the right owners, so the question should be not what is the best one but rather what is the best one for me. The dogs on this list differ significantly in terms of their appearance, temperament, energy levels, and care needs, among other things. What is the calmest small Poodle mix? While every dog is as totally unique in its specific traits as every person is, and so it can be tricky to judge how rambunctious they will be, Doods that combine the more giant breeds with Poodles tend to be among the calmest dogs. Pups bred to be companion animals also tend to be on the lower end of the energy spectrum compared to those originally used as work dogs, such as Terriers and Spaniels. What is the smallest Poodle mix? The smallest Poodle dogs are going to be a combination of two of the most miniature parents. While that will vary depending on individual animals, Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers tend to be high up on any smallest dog lists. So if you are looking for a totally teeny pup, then a Chi-Poo or Yorkipoo might be for you. Which Poodle mix is healthiest? Luckily, for Doodle fans everywhere, due to their more diverse mix of genes creating something known as hybrid vigor , small Poodle mixes tend to be far healthier than most pedigree pups. However, differences in health will come down to how the dogs were bred. Responsible Breeders health screen their animals to ensure that the possibility of genetic conditions being passed down to their offspring is much reduced. Miniature Doods are the ideal option for those looking for a more manageably-sized dog with all the spunk and personality of their often larger parent pups. Hopefully, the information included here has helped you narrow down your choices a little in your quest to find your new best friend. You Might Also Like. Ask for Our 'Special Order' Option. Teacup Poodle puppies are one of the most impressive dogs in the canine world. Not only are teacup Poodles extremely friendly and affectionate to their owners, these loveable beauties vibe well with young children, strangers, and other dogs. Our delightful toy puppies are also incredibly clever and easy to train. After learning a few tricks, our adorable teacup Poodles will keep you entertained for hours with their playfulness. Are you ready to open your heart and home to your fur-ever friend? Have a look at our available Toy Poodle puppies for sale, or contact us for information about our upcoming litters or the special order option. Temperament: Poodles are highly intelligent and adaptable dogs that are known for their delightful temperament. They are playful, affectionate, and loyal companions that make wonderful pets for individuals and families alike. One of the most notable characteristics of the Poodle temperament is their intelligence. They are quick learners and excel at obedience training and other forms of mental stimulation. Poodles are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of living situations, from apartments to larger homes. In addition to their intelligence, Poodles are also affectionate and loving dogs that form strong bonds with their owners. They are known for being highly attuned to their human's emotions and can be extremely intuitive and sensitive to their needs. This makes them great companions for people who are looking for a loyal and loving pet. Poodles are also highly sociable dogs that enjoy spending time with their owners and meeting new people and pets. They are outgoing and friendly, making them great pets for families with children or other pets. Poodles also have a playful side to their nature and enjoy games and activities that involve interaction and engagement with their owners. Overall, the Poodle temperament is highly desirable, making them one of the most popular breeds in the world. Their intelligence, adaptability, and loving nature make them wonderful pets for a wide range of people and lifestyles, and their endearing personalities are sure to bring joy and companionship to any household. Available Puppies Appearance: Poodles are a distinctive breed known for their elegant and sophisticated appearance. They come in four sizes: standard, miniature, and toy, and teacup and have a variety of coat colors including white, black, brown, silver, apricot, and red. One of the most notable features of the Poodle is their unique coat. Poodles have a dense, curly coat that is hypoallergenic, meaning they are a great choice for people with allergies. Their curly coat is also water-resistant, which makes them excellent swimmers. Poodles have a long, narrow muzzle and oval-shaped eyes that convey a sense of intelligence and alertness. They have long, furry ears that hang close to their head, giving them a regal and elegant appearance. Poodles also have a long, slender neck that flows smoothly into their well-proportioned body. Another defining characteristic of the Poodle is their distinctive gait. They have a springy and energetic step, and their movements are graceful and fluid. This, combined with their elegant appearance, gives Poodles a sense of aristocratic refinement. Overall, the Poodle is a visually striking breed that boasts a unique and sophisticated appearance. Their curly coat, elegant body structure, and distinctive gait make them one of the most recognizable and beloved dog breeds in the world. Learn more Exercise Poodles are active and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental well-being. While the amount of exercise they require may vary depending on their size and age, all Poodles need daily exercise to keep them healthy and happy. A typical exercise routine for a Poodle may include a brisk walk or jog in the morning and evening, along with some playtime or training sessions during the day. Poodles also enjoy playing fetch, running around in a securely fenced yard, or going on leisurely hikes with their owners. In addition to physical exercise, Poodles also benefit from mental stimulation. They are highly intelligent and require mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. Puzzle toys, obedience training, and other forms of mental stimulation can help keep Poodles mentally stimulated and engaged. It's important to keep in mind that Poodles can be prone to weight gain, especially as they age. Regular exercise not only helps to keep them physically fit but also provides them with mental stimulation and helps to prevent boredom and destructive behaviors. Monitoring their diet and exercise routine closely is crucial to prevent them from becoming overweight or obese. Overall, Poodles are active and energetic dogs that require regular exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. With the right amount of exercise, attention, and care, Poodles can live long, healthy, and happy lives. Learn more History The Poodle is an ancient breed with a history that dates back several centuries. While the exact origins of the breed are unclear, it is believed that they originated in Germany, where they were known as the "Pudel," which translates to "splash in water. Their unique coat, which is hypoallergenic and water-resistant, made them well-suited for this task. Over time, Poodles also became popular as circus performers and were trained to perform tricks and acrobatics. During the 16th century, Poodles became popular with European nobility and were frequently depicted in paintings and artwork of the time. They were also a popular choice for the court of Louis XVI, and were often seen in his court as well as other royal courts in Europe. In the 19th century, Poodles were standardized into three different sizes: standard, miniature, and toy. This allowed for greater versatility in the breed, and they became popular as companions and family pets. Today, Poodles are one of the most popular breeds in the world and are beloved for their intelligence, affectionate nature, and distinctive appearance. They continue to be used as retrievers and are also trained for a variety of activities, including obedience, agility, and therapy work. Learn more Maintenance Poodles require regular maintenance to keep their distinctive curly coat in good condition. Their curly coat can easily become matted and tangled, so it's important to brush and groom them regularly to prevent this from happening. The frequency of grooming will depend on the length of the Poodle's coat. For example, a Poodle with a shorter clip may only need to be groomed every six to eight weeks, while a Poodle with a longer coat may need to be groomed every four to six weeks. Regular brushing is also important for Poodle maintenance. Brushing helps to remove any loose or dead hair from their coat, as well as prevent matting and tangles. Poodles with longer coats may need to be brushed daily, while those with shorter coats may only need to be brushed a few times a week. Bathing is another important aspect of Poodle maintenance. Poodles should be bathed every three to four weeks, or more frequently if they get particularly dirty or smelly. It's important to use a dog-specific shampoo that won't irritate their skin or strip their coat of its natural oils. Poodle maintenance also involves regular nail trimming, ear cleaning, and teeth brushing. Their nails should be trimmed every two to three weeks, their ears should be cleaned weekly, and their teeth should be brushed several times a week to prevent dental issues. Overall, Poodles require regular maintenance to keep them healthy, happy, and looking their best. Consistent grooming, brushing, bathing, and other forms of maintenance can help prevent common issues like matting and tangling, and keep them looking and feeling great. Toy poodles stand 10 inches or under and were often used in performances and circuses. Here are 8 of the most popular toy poodle mixes. The Cocker Spaniel is known for its warm demeanor. Toy Poodles are known for their intelligence. Though the temperament and traits of mixing two breeds are based on genetics, cocapoos are often smart, caring companions. Cockapoos generally weigh under 10 pounds and stand up to 10 inches tall. Both types of dog were bred for companionship. Maltipoos typically have wavy, woolly coats that need to be brushed often. These dogs can weigh anywhere from 4-to pounds and be 7 to inches in height. The Pekingese has been a popular lap dog for over years! When fully grown, Peekapoos usually weigh less than 15 pounds and stand 9 inches high or less These dogs can be black, brown, apricot, red, sliver, and white. Pomeranians descended from sled dogs, and when they were larger 30 pounds , they served as sheep herders. Their size was reduced through breeding in the 19th century. Pomapoos usually weigh 5 to 15 pounds and stand 8 to 10 inches tall. Originally, the miniature Schnauzer was used to keep rats and vermin away from farms. These dogs can come in a mix of colors: white, black, gray, cream, brown, red, sliver, or a mix of two colors. When mixed with a toy schnauzer, the schnoodle will most likely be under 10 inches tall and weigh only 12 to 20 pounds. The Yorkshire Terrier, or Yorkie, was bred in Yorkshire, England and was used to control rats in cotton mills and coal mines. When fully grown, Yorkipoos can be 6 to 14 inches tall and weigh 4 to 14 pounds. Chihuahuas can be nervious, but are extremely devoted to their owners. Some believe the chihuahua originated from the Fennec Fox, a small creature with big ears. Chipoos will be small in size, which means they require little exercise and are good for owners that have small places—like a city apartment. These tiny little pups are loyal and loving and can fit just about anywhere! Also intelligent, the Teacup Poodle will keep you on your toes and carries many of the same characteristics as their standard sized parents. This breed is selectively bred and is a variation of the Toy Poodle. The only difference between the Toy Poodle and the Teacup Poodle is their size, so we can look to the Toy Poodle for a lot of information about the Teacup. Breed Origin The Poodle is one of the most popular dogs in the world and is in fact one of the oldest pure bred dogs. These dogs originated in Germany and were originally bred to be a working and gun dog that made the perfect hunting dog. The Poodle has a waterproof coat and great retrieving talents. Nowadays, this breed is more known as a lapdog rather than a working dog. They are bred in smaller breeds so that more people can enjoy having a Poodle as a best friend. The Teacup variation of this breed has been selectively bred from the Toy Poodle and must be under 9 inches in height and less than 6 pounds in weight to qualify as a Teacup. Teacup puppies are normally born in litters of one to two, although occasionally there can be more. They weigh around 2 pounds when born and will only grow to around 5 pounds once fully grown. They also are always under 9 inches in height. This is because of the selective breeding process and the fact that there are fewer dogs in every litter. Although there are no official breed standards, the general rule of thumb is that a Teacup Poodle is 9 inches in height and they weigh less than 6 pounds, whereas a Toy breed is less than 10 inches. Their breed is very elegant looking, no matter the size, and they always stand poised. Their eyes are also small, dark and are always alert and they have a long muzzle with floppy furry ears. Coat Their coat is curled and thick and they do not shed any fur. This means they are a hypoallergenic dog and are perfect for those with allergies. Unlike other Poodle mix dogs who may have a mixture of different fur colors, this dog only comes in solid colors. This way, you can determine whether you are being sold a purebred Poodle or not. They are extremely loving and make great companions for everyone, including individuals, families and the elderly. Because of their size, too, they fit into many different environments and will do well in apartments and in city living and also in large homes in the country or in open-spaced environments. Their exercise needs are not great, although they do get bored very easily and do not like to be left alone. If they are left alone for too long they will begin to suffer from separation anxiety and exhibit destructive behaviors. Lifespan The life expectancy of a Teacup dog is relatively long. These dogs can be expected to live anywhere between 12 to 14 years. Some of these problems are similar to the issues that may be carried by their standard sized ancestors due to their genetic similarities. These include: Progressive Retinal Atrophy PRA — this is an eye disorder that eventually causes blindness from the loss of photoreceptors at the back of the eye. Dysplasia — this is normally seen in large dogs but can affect different joints in the body. Also, because of their selective breeding and small size, they are also prone to some other health issues. You should always check with the breeder you are buying from to see whether the dogs show any signs of these problems. The three most common are hypoglycemia low blood sugar , heart defects and patella luxation. Patella luxation is a common condition in smaller dogs and is caused when the patella is not properly aligned. This can cause lameness in the leg or an abnormal gait, sort of like a skip or a hop. To ensure you identify the signs of any of these issues early, ensure you take your dog to the vet for regular checkups. Daily Life Fortunately, taking care of a Teacup Poodle in day-to-day life is not too challenging. They do not have as many needs as other sizes of the Poodle breed. Food And Diet Because they are small dogs , their food needs are not huge. Experts recommend that you feed your Teacup Poodle approximately calories per day, which is the equivalent to approximately 1 cup of high quality dry kibble per day. You should try them on a diet that is specially formulated for toy sized breeds, so you are ensuring that they get the right nutrients. You can also reward them with treats when they exhibit good behavior, as well as fruit snacks. Exercise The Teacup Poodle does not have great exercise needs, because of their size. Despite this, they still need to be walked every day. Exercising your dog can be a great way to bond with them and increase mental stimulation, as well as allowing them to experience new sights and sounds. Experts recommend you take your Teacup Poodle for no more than a 30 minute short walk a day. It is best that you split the walk into three so they do not over exert themselves. This way you could take them in the morning, in the middle of the day and in the evening and you could vary the locations to give your dog new experiences. Your dog will also benefit from toys at home that will increase bonding time with you. Keep in mind that a Teacup Poodle has trouble keeping warm because of their small size. If you live in a colder area, your Teacup will benefit from a sweater or jacket to keep warm! Family Compatibility Poodles love humans and make great companions for everyone, including families. Because of their size, Teacup Poodles can fit into any home, whether you live in an apartment in the city of whether you live in a large house in the countryside. They love to be around you, so they are not well suited to a family that is going to be out for most of the day. That being said, they are extremely loving and a great lapdog — and small enough so you might be able to take them with you! The Teacup may feel intimidated when being held by small children and therefore get a little cranky. Fortunately, with early socialization, this can be fixed. Training Teacup Poodles are easy to train, which is another reason many people love these dogs. They are naturally intelligent which makes your life a lot easier, especially if you have never trained a dog before. Teacups want to learn and want to please and they respond well to positive reinforcement. This includes verbal praise and treats. You will also need to socialize them, especially because they are small. They need to be introduced to other people and animals from a young age so they learn how to interact. You should aim to do this twice a week. You should also clip their nails and brush their teeth. To help prevent dental decay and disease, daily brushing is the normally recommended. Teacup Poodles certainly do well in a family environment and love to be around people. They can feel intimidated when they are around small children, so it is not usually advised to house them with young children. However, this can be fixed with socialization. They can live in both small apartments or in big houses, as long as you give them enough love. How much do Teacup Poodles cost? They are expensive because they can be difficult to breed and there is normally only one or two puppies in a litter. If this is too expensive for you, you may find a Teacup Poodle at your local shelter who needs a home. Summary Teacup Poodles are an adorable, friendly and loving dog. Ensure that you give them the right amount of food, exercise them every day and play games with them and they will love you forever! Teacup Poodles love to be around people and can make the perfect family dog. They are not difficult to train and walking is minimal, so they make a great pet to everyone! What do you think — is a Teacup Poodle the right dog for you? Search Dog Breeds. They may have originated in Germany, but in France they were adored. Poodles are a highly intelligent breed in general. Toy Poodles, in particular, had an aptitude for learning tricks due to that intelligence. They wowed circus audiences across Europe with their stage performances and adorable charm. Toy Poodles are, first and foremost, performing pups. They love being the center of attention, but too much pampering can go to their heads. And with their intelligence, training is a breeze! They will often join in family activities and try to be a part of the action as much as possible. In fact, if left alone too long to their own devices these dogs may become destructive. This breed is highly adaptable. They tend to require mental stimulation and affection, so leaving brain teasers at home will work for some time. However, if the Toy Poodle Mix finds themselves alone and becomes bored, they may attack your shoes. The Toy Poodle Mix has moderately good health. However, they experience similar health concerns as other toy breeds with some additional Poodle-specific illnesses. For example, Toy Poodle Mixes may suffer from the following: hypothyroidism, teeth crowding, trachea collapse, kneecap migration, blood clotting disorders, skin inflammation, and hip dysplasia. As long as this pup regularly attends vet visits, exercises moderately, and maintains a healthy weight, they should enjoy a long, healthy life. Keep an eye out for certain things, like limping and weight loss, to be extra careful. Toy Poodles are companions through and through. So, a Toy Poodle Mix is likely to gleefully accompany owners on runs, errands, and even cuddles. In fact, these dogs love to sit on laps and are overjoyed at all the attention. These clever pups also pick up on commands very quickly and are eager to please. They make impressive little acrobats as long as a stern, consistent trainer is by their side. Their coats are curly and dense — requiring frequent grooming to prevent matting. Because of their crowding teeth, your Toy Poodle Mix may need a little extra brushing to keep their teeth healthy and strong. They can be just as active, but will tire out after a few laps around the living room. A Toy Poodle Mix is a good companion for people who tend to prefer lapdogs as opposed to running partners. A Toy Poodle Mix will only weigh about 7 pounds, on average, and stand under 10 inches tall. This dog breed lives between 12 and 15 years on average. Featured Toy Poodle Mix Article.